PLX31-EIP-MBS|ProSoft| EtherNet/IP To Modbus Serial Gateway

Product Description

The PLX31-EIP-MBS is a high-performance industrial gateway designed by ProSoft Technology to bridge the gap between EtherNet/IP and Modbus Serial networks. This standalone module allows Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley PLCs (such as ControlLogix or CompactLogix) to communicate seamlessly with Modbus RTU/ASCII devices, including power meters, variable frequency drives, and flow computers.

Engineered for extreme reliability, the PLX31-EIP-MBS features high-grade electrical isolation and superior vibration resistance (5G), making it suitable for heavy-duty manufacturing and energy environments. The gateway supports bidirectional data transfer, ensuring that critical process information is synchronized across disparate network protocols with minimal latency. Its compact, DIN-rail mountable design and wide operating temperature range ensure stable performance in remote field cabinets or dense control rooms.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: ProSoft Technology

• Protocol Conversion: EtherNet/IP (Client/Server) to Modbus Serial (Master/Slave)

• Power Input: 24V DC nominal (Supports a wide range of 10 to 36V DC)

• Current Load: 300 mA @ 24V DC (Max 610 mA @ 10V DC)

• Ethernet Port: Single 10/100 Mbit RJ45 connector; Half-duplex supported

• Ethernet Isolation: 1500 Vrms (at 50 to 60 Hz for 60 seconds)

• Network Resiliency: Ethernet Broadcast Storm protection (≤ 5000 ARP frames-per-second)

• Serial Port: 1 x RS-232/422/485 (Software configurable)

• Serial Port Isolation: 2500 Vrms signal isolation (UL 1577) utilizing RF modulation (SiliconLabs Si844x)

• LED Indicators: Comprehensive status LEDs for Configuration (CFG), Error (ERR), Power (PWR), Hardware Fault (FLT), Network Status (NS), and Serial Activity (RX/TX)

• Environmental Ratings:

• Operating Temperature: -25°C to 70°C (-13°F to 158°F)

• Vibration: IEC 60068-2-6 compliant (5G @ 10 to 150 Hz)

• Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% RH (Non-condensing)

• Dimensions: 13.67 cm (H) x 5.05 cm (W) x 11.13 cm (D)

• Shipping Weight: 2.0 kg

Application Scenarios

The PLX31-EIP-MBS is frequently used in the following industrial contexts:

• Power Management: Linking Modbus-enabled multimeters and circuit breakers to an EtherNet/IP-based SCADA system.

• Motor Control: Integrating Modbus RTU Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) into a Logix-based control architecture.

• Oil & Gas: Connecting remote flow computers and gas chromatographs to a central PLC over long-distance serial links.

• Legacy Integration: Modernizing plants by allowing new EtherNet/IP controllers to talk to older Modbus-based sensors.