FAQ
TL;DR: V15 licenses work across 4 prior versions (V11–V14); "you can install and work on previous versions." Fix 'can't download' by uploading in the original version (e.g., V13) and converting to V15. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
Why it matters: For Siemens TIA Portal users hitting version‑mismatch errors, this shows how to recover uploads and legally use older versions.
Quick Facts
- Backward license coverage: V15 -> V11–V14 (4 versions), per Siemens confirmation. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
- Practical fix: Upload in the original TIA (e.g., V13), then convert to V15. [Elektroda, Micek64, post #17084168]
- Side‑by‑side installs recommended; use trial installers to cut update time. [Elektroda, dzik84, post #17086286]
- HMI panels: no upload‑and‑edit; original HMI project files are required. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
- Proven outcome: Using the older version resolved the OP’s download issue. [Elektroda, gienekpa, post #17291910]
How do I fix "can't download program from the driver/PLC" in TIA Portal V15?
Upload using the original TIA version, then convert to V15. "Download via V13, convert to V15." How‑To: 1. Install TIA Portal V13 that matches the PLC program. 2. Connect to the CPU and upload the project. 3. Open the uploaded project in V15 to convert and continue. [Elektroda, Micek64, post #17084168]
Can I use an older TIA Portal version if I only own a V15 license?
Yes. Siemens confirmed V15 licensing works backward for 4 prior versions (V11–V14). "You can install and work on previous versions." You still must install the older software to use it. The license does not convert projects on the device. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
Do I need to keep multiple TIA versions installed side‑by‑side?
Yes, install several versions to service legacy machines. Use trial installers instead of DVDs to save update time. Keep your license on the latest TIA; previous versions on that PC accept it. This streamlines field support. [Elektroda, dzik84, post #17086286]
Which version should I use to upload from a CPU programmed in V13?
Use V13 to upload the project from the CPU. Then open it in V15 and let the converter run. After conversion, continue development in V15. This avoids the V15 download block. [Elektroda, Micek64, post #17084168]
I uninstalled older TIA versions. What now?
Reinstall the needed older version to upload the project. Your V15 license activates the older version on the same PC. Download trial installers to reduce update time versus DVDs. Then convert the project in V15. [Elektroda, dzik84, post #17086286]
Can I pull a project from an HMI panel and edit it in TIA?
No. Upload‑and‑edit from panels is blocked, and you must have the original HMI project. Siemens’ statement confirms this limitation. Keep reliable backups of HMI projects for future edits. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
Does Siemens officially confirm backward license compatibility?
Yes. They stated a V15 license lets you work with V11–V14, covering 4 prior versions. "You can install and work on previous versions." This enables mixed‑version maintenance. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
Will one PC license activate both V15 and V13 on the same machine?
Yes. Place the license in the latest TIA. Previous TIA versions on that PC will accept it. This avoids buying extra licenses for legacy support. [Elektroda, dzik84, post #17086286]
Why does V15 block direct upload from a CPU with an older project?
The CPU project predates your engineering version. TIA expects matching major versions for uploads. Use the matching version to upload, then convert to V15. This prevents version conflicts during online access or downloads. [Elektroda, Micek64, post #17084168]
What solved the original poster’s problem?
They used the older TIA version to download the project from the PLC. After that, they proceeded normally in the newer environment. The mismatch error no longer blocked them. [Elektroda, gienekpa, post #17291910]
Any tips to speed setup across TIA versions?
Get trial installers online rather than using DVDs. This reduces time lost on cumulative updates. Install multiple major versions side‑by‑side to cover legacy equipment quickly in the field. [Elektroda, dzik84, post #17086286]
After conversion to V15, can I keep working without the older version?
Yes. Once converted, continue in V15. "Convert to V15 and then you can act." Keep older versions installed for future uploads from legacy devices that still block V15. [Elektroda, Micek64, post #17084168]
Does this apply to versions earlier than V13, like V11 or V12?
Yes. The Siemens response covered V11, V12, V13, and V14 under a V15 license. That equals 4 prior versions and broad backward coverage. [Elektroda, elradziu, post #17224011]
. I thought you only need to have a newer version. I thought that Siemens is just like any other normal driver and I was very surprised here 