ProSoft PLX32-EIP-MBTCP – EtherNet/IP to Modbus TCP/IP Communications Gateway | PLX32 Platform
Engineering Background
Industrial automation networks frequently require seamless data exchange between EtherNet/IP-based control systems (Allen-Bradley PLCs, Rockwell Automation ControlLogix/CompactLogix) and Modbus TCP/IP devices such as drives, meters, sensors, and third-party controllers. Bridging these two dominant industrial Ethernet protocols without custom programming or middleware is a persistent integration challenge for control engineers.
Product Positioning
The ProSoft PLX32-EIP-MBTCP is a standalone, DIN-rail-mounted communications gateway engineered specifically for EtherNet/IP ↔ Modbus TCP/IP protocol translation. It operates as an EtherNet/IP Adapter (server) and Modbus TCP Client/Server simultaneously, enabling transparent, real-time data mapping between both networks without requiring PLC ladder logic changes. Ideal for system integrators, OEM machine builders, and plant engineers executing brownfield upgrades or greenfield multi-vendor architectures.
Complete Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number / SKU | PLX32-EIP-MBTCP |
| Manufacturer | ProSoft Technology |
| Product Series | PLX32 Industrial Protocol Gateway |
| Protocol Side A | EtherNet/IP – Adapter (Server) mode |
| Protocol Side B | Modbus TCP/IP – Client & Server mode |
| Network Ports | 2 × RJ45 10/100 Mbps Ethernet (independent) |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC (±10%), <3 W typical |
| Mounting | DIN rail (EN 50022) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Humidity | 5% to 95% RH, non-condensing |
| Enclosure Rating | IP20 |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | Approx. 45 × 100 × 75 mm |
| Weight | ~240 g |
| Configuration Interface | ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) software – free download |
| Data Mapping | Up to 5,000 registers bidirectional |
| EIP Connections | Up to 10 Class 1 (I/O) + Class 3 (explicit) connections |
| Modbus TCP Connections | Up to 10 simultaneous client/server sessions |
| Certifications | CE, UL, cUL, RoHS |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Proven Application Environments
- Rockwell ControlLogix / CompactLogix integration with third-party Modbus TCP drives (ABB, Danfoss, Schneider ATV)
- SCADA/HMI connectivity – bridging Modbus TCP SCADA hosts to EtherNet/IP field devices
- Energy metering – connecting Modbus TCP power meters to EtherNet/IP plant networks
- Brownfield retrofits – adding EtherNet/IP capability to legacy Modbus TCP equipment without hardware replacement
- OEM machine panels – standardizing multi-vendor communication in packaged systems
- Water/wastewater treatment plants, oil & gas facilities, automotive assembly lines, food & beverage processing
Engineering Advantages
- Dual independent Ethernet ports – isolate EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP networks for security and performance
- No PLC programming required – all data mapping configured via PCB software GUI
- Bidirectional, real-time data exchange – sub-10 ms scan cycle for time-critical applications
- Flexible Modbus function code support – FC01/02/03/04/05/06/15/16 (coils, discrete inputs, holding/input registers)
- Diagnostic LEDs + built-in web server – live connection status without additional tools
- Wide operating temperature range – suitable for harsh industrial cabinet environments
- Compact DIN-rail form factor – minimal panel space, easy integration into existing enclosures
System Architecture & Signal Flow
The PLX32-EIP-MBTCP operates as a protocol bridge with two independent Ethernet interfaces:
- Port 1 (EtherNet/IP side): Connects to the Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLC or any EtherNet/IP scanner. The gateway presents itself as an EtherNet/IP Adapter, exchanging I/O data via Class 1 cyclic connections or explicit messaging.
- Port 2 (Modbus TCP side): Connects to Modbus TCP devices. The gateway acts as both Modbus TCP Client (polling remote devices) and Server (responding to external Modbus TCP masters).
- Internal data table: A shared memory map (up to 5,000 registers) serves as the translation buffer. Engineers define read/write mapping rules in PCB software — no firmware modification needed.
Signal flow: EtherNet/IP Scanner → PLX32 EIP Adapter → Internal Register Map → Modbus TCP Client → Field Device
Sourcing & Quality Verification
- All PLX32-EIP-MBTCP units sourced through authorized distribution channels with full traceability
- Each unit inspected for OEM label integrity, firmware version, and physical condition prior to shipment
- Original ProSoft packaging and documentation included where available
- Batch and serial number records maintained for warranty and compliance purposes
- Certificates of conformity available upon request for CE / UL compliance documentation
Procurement Process
- Confirm compatibility – verify your EtherNet/IP scanner firmware and Modbus TCP device register map
- Request a quote – contact [email protected] for volume pricing or lead time confirmation
- Place order – secure checkout via Konmask.com; payment by T/T, credit card, or PayPal accepted
- Shipping – DHL / FedEx Express worldwide; tracking provided within 24 hours of dispatch
- Technical support – pre-sale and post-sale engineering support available via email or WhatsApp
Technical FAQ
Q: Can the PLX32-EIP-MBTCP act as both Modbus TCP Client and Server simultaneously?
A: Yes. The gateway supports concurrent Client and Server operation on the Modbus TCP port, allowing it to both poll remote devices and respond to external masters at the same time.
Q: How many Modbus TCP devices can it connect to?
A: Up to 10 simultaneous Modbus TCP sessions (client connections). Each session can address multiple register ranges.
Q: Is configuration software free?
A: Yes. ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) is available as a free download from ProSoft Technology’s website. No license fee required.
Q: What EtherNet/IP connection types are supported?
A: Class 1 (implicit/cyclic I/O) and Class 3 (explicit messaging). Up to 10 total EtherNet/IP connections.
Q: Is this unit compatible with Studio 5000 / RSLogix 5000?
A: Yes. An EDS file is provided for seamless integration into Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 Logix Designer.
Q: What is the warranty?
A: ProSoft Technology standard warranty applies (1 year). Extended warranty and repair services available — contact Konmask for details.
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