Vlinx MESP211
Ultra Compact Modbus Gateway
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Introduction Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
TAB L E OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 5
About MESP211 Modbus Gateways ................................................................................................................................ 5
MESP211 Model Numbering ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Model Number .................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Serial Protocol .................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Serial port ........................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Ethernet Port ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
MESP211D .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
RS-232/422/485 ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
DB9M ................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
RJ45 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
MESP211T ........................................................................................................................................................................... 5
RS-232/422/485 ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Removable Terminal Block ............................................................................................................................................... 5
RJ45 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
MESP211 Features ............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Configuration Software ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
2. MESP211 Hardware .......................................................................................................................................... 7
Package Checklist .............................................................................................................................................................. 7
MESP211 Enclosures and Mounting ................................................................................................................................ 7
LED Indicators .................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Mode Switch ....................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Ethernet Connector ................................................................................................................................ ........................... 9
Serial Port Connectors .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Power Connector .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Mounting Hardware ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
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Introduction Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
3. Setup and Connections .................................................................................................................................. 11
Connecting the Power Supply ........................................................................................................................................ 11
Connecting MESP211 Modbus Gateways to Modbus networks ................................................................................ 11
Connecting the MESP211 ................................................................................................................................ ............... 12
Connecting MESP211 Modbus Gateways to a Network ............................................................................................. 13
MESP211 Configuration Connections ........................................................................................................................... 14
Installing Modbus Gateway Manager Software .......................................................................................... 14
Configuring the MESP211 via the Network Connection ........................................................................... 18
Configuring the Modbus Gateway Manager ................................................................................................. 18
General Settings ................................................................................................................................................................. 23
Configuring the MESP211 on Networks without a DHCP Server .......................................................... 38
Configuring the MESP211 via the Serial Port (Console Mode) ............................................................. 41
MESP211 Operational Connections ............................................................................................................................... 43
Using MESP211 Modbus Gateways in Direct IP Mode .............................................................................. 43
Initiating a Hardware Reset on the Modbus Gateway ............................................................................................... 44
Reloading Factory Defaults ............................................................................................................................................ 44
4. Upgrading Firmware ....................................................................................................................................... 45
Downloading Firmware Files .......................................................................................................................................... 46
Uploading the Firmware to the Modbus Gateway ...................................................................................................... 46
5. Diagnostics ......................................................................................................................................................... 47
Testing a Modbus Gateway Connection ....................................................................................................................... 48
Monitor Function .............................................................................................................................................................. 49
6. Setup Examples ................................................................................................................................................ 50
7. Modbus Help ...................................................................................................................................................... 55
Modbus ASCII/RTU Basics .............................................................................................................................................. 55
Hints and Tips .................................................................................................................................................................. 56
8. Appendices ......................................................................................................................................................... 57
Appendix A: Default Gateway Settings ........................................................................................................................ 58
Appendix B: Product Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 59
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Introduction Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
General Specifications ......................................................................................................................................... 60
Controls, Indicators and Connector Specifications ................................................................................... 61
Approvals and Certifications .............................................................................................................................. 62
Serial Interface Specifications .......................................................................................................................... 63
Network Specifications ........................................................................................................................................ 64
Appendix C: Dimensional Diagram ............................................................................................................................... 65
Appendix D: Connector Pinouts .................................................................................................................................... 66
MESP211 Serial Port Pinouts ............................................................................................................................. 66
MESP211 Terminal Block Pinouts .................................................................................................................... 67
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Introduction Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Model Number
Serial Protocol
Serial port
Ethernet Port
MESP211D
RS-232/422/485
DB9M
RJ45
MESP211T
RS-232/422/485
Removable
Terminal
Block
RJ45
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an MESP211 product. This product has been manufactured to the
highest standards of quality and performance to ensure your complete satisfaction.
ABOUT MESP211 MODBUS GATEWA Y S
MESP211 Modbus Gateways connect Modbus networks (RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485) to
Ethernet networks, allowing the Modbus network to become a node on the network. The
serial ports can be accessed over a LAN/WAN using Direct IP Mode connections. MESP211
Modbus Gateways feature 10BaseT or 100BaseTX copper network media options, depending
upon the model.
MESP211 Modbus Gateways are built for use in industrial environments, featuring an IP30
slim line panel mountable case with DIN rail mounting option. They accept 10 – 30 VDC
power and feature barrel jack power connectors. An external power supply is included.
MESP211 MODEL NUMBERING
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Introduction Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
MESP211 FEATURES
DB9M and pluggable terminal block serial port connector options
Software selectable as RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 2- or 4-wire
Configuration of Ethernet and serial port settings using software
Configuration can be done via network, web page or direct serial connection
Slim line panel mountable case with DIN rail mount option
Accepts 10 – 30 VDC power
10/100 Mbps Ethernet with Auto Selection, Auto MDI/MDIX
LAN and WAN Communications
Modbus TCP Client or Modbus TCP Server - configurable
Firmware Upload for future revisions/upgrades
Software Support - Windows XP (32/64 bit), 2003 Server (32/64 bit), Vista
(32/64 bit), 2008 Server (32/64 bit), Windows 7 (32/64 bit), Windows 8
(32/64 bit), Windows Server 2012
CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE
The configuration software enables you to find connected Modbus Gateways, configure
them, upgrade Modbus Gateway firmware, and save/load configuration files. It features a
graphical user interface (GUI) that is convenient and easy to use.
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Hardware Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
2. MESP211 HARDWARE
MESP211 Modbus Gateways are enclosed in panel mountable cases with DIN rail mount
options and feature LED indicators, power, Ethernet and serial connectors and a recessed
Reset/Mode switch.
PA CKAGE CHECKLIST
MESP211 Modbus Gateways are shipped with the following items included:
MESP211 Modbus Gateway Module
Quick Start Guide
CD with configuration software
Power supply
MESP211 ENCLOSURES AND MOUNT ING
All MESP211 models are built into similar enclosures. Modules are panel mountable with
DIN rail options.
LED INDICATORS
MESP211 Modbus Gateways have a Power LED, a Ready LED and Data LEDs.
LEDs Figure 1.
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Hardware Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
MODE SWITCH
A recessed momentary reset switch is located on the front left side of the enclosure. To
activate the switch, insert a small plastic tool through the hole in the enclosure and press
gently.
Mode/Reset Switch Figure 2.
The Mode/Reset switch can be used to:
Initiate a Hardware Reset
Enter Console Mode
Reload factory defaults
Note: Refer to Section 3: Modbus Gateway Setup and Connections for more information on
using the Mode switch.
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Hardware Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
ETHERNET CONNECTOR
Modbus Gateway models using 10BaseT/100BaseTX network connections use an RJ45
receptacle. The Modbus Gateway is connected to a standard Ethernet network drop using a
straight-through RJ45 (male) Ethernet cable.
Ethernet Connector. Figure 3.
Note: Refer to Appendix D for connection pin-outs.
SER I A L P O R T C O N NECTO RS
The MESP211 has either a DB9M serial connector or a 5-position terminal block connector.
DB-9 Serial Port Connector (MESP211D) Figure 4.
Five-Position Pluggable Terminal Block (MESP211T) Figure 5.
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Hardware Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
POWER CONNECTOR
Power Connection Figure 6.
MOUNTING HARDWARE
An optional DIN rail mount adapter is available from B&B Electronics.
DIN Clip for Modbus Gateway Module. Figure 7.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
3. SETUP AND CONNECTIONS
Note: In this section devices to be connected to the Modbus Gateway’s serial connection are
simply referred to as the “Modbus network”.
CONNECTING THE POWER SUPPLY
Connect a DC power supply to Modbus Gateway. Acceptable voltages are between 10 VDC
and 30 VDC. The power supply must be capable of supplying 4 watts.
MESP211 Power Connection Figure 8.
Figure 9.
CONNECTING MESP211 MODBUS GATEW AYS TO MODBUS NETWORKS
MESP211 Modbus Gateways can be configured to connect to Modbus networks using RS232, RS-422, RS-485 2-wire or RS-485 4-wire.
For the MESP211D
RS-232 connections support eight signal lines plus Signal Ground. Signals are single ended
and referenced to Ground. Default communications parameters are 9600, 8, N, 1. RS422/485 connections are also supported with the DB9 connector.
For the MESP211T
RS-422 4-wire connections support two signal pairs: RXA(-), RXB(+) and TXA(-), TXB(+),
plus GND. The data lines are differential pairs (A & B) in which the B line is positive relative
to the A line in the idle (mark) state. Ground provides a common mode reference. RS-232
connections are also supported with the terminal block connector.
RS-485 connections support 2-wire or 4-wire operation.
When configured for 4-wire operation the connection supports two signal pairs: RXA(-),
RXB(+) and TXA(-), TXB(+), plus GND. This makes full-duplex operation possible. The data
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
lines are differential pairs (A & B) in which the B line is positive relative to the A line in the
idle (mark) state. Ground provides a common mode reference.
When configured for 2-wire operation the connection supports one signal pair: Data B(+)
and Data A(-) signal channels using half-duplex operation. The data lines are differential
with the Data B line positive relative to Data A in the idle (mark) state. Ground provides a
common mode reference.
CONNECTING THE MESP211
The MESP211 has either a DB9M serial connector or a 5-position terminal block connector.
If you select RS-232 mode when you configure the Modbus Gateway, you must connect the
Modbus serial network to the Modbus Gateway via a serial cable. The MESP211 is a DTE. If
the Modbus network is a DTE, use a null modem (cross-over) cable. If the Modbus network
is a DCE, use a straight-through cable. DTE and DCE ports are complementary, the Output
signals on a DTE port are Inputs to a DCE port, and Output signals on a DCE port are
Inputs to a DTE port. The signal names match each other and connect pin for pin. Signal
flow is in the direction of the arrows
MESP211 Serial Connections Figure 10.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
MESP211 Connections Figure 11.
CONNECTING MESP211 MODBUS GATEW AYS TO A NETWORK
Network Connection (10BaseT/100BaseTX)
When connecting a Modbus Gateway equipped with a 10BaseT/100BaseTX
network connection (RJ45 connector) a standard network cable is connected from the
Modbus Gateway to a network drop. PCs configuring and/or communicating with the Modbus
Gateway are also connected to the network.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
MESP211 CONFIGURATION CONNEC TIONS
MESP211 Modbus Gateways can be configured over the network or via a serial port.
INSTAL LING MODBUS GATEWAY MANAGER SOFTWARE
1. The Modbus Gateway Manager Software is contained on the CD which is
packaged with the product. Insert the CD into your CD ROM drive. The software
should automatically begin the installation process. If AUTO RUN is disabled on
your computer, open the CD drive and double click on the executable file.
a. The following screen will be displayed on your computer.
Modbus Gateway Manager Installation Welcome Screen Figure 12.
b. Click “Next.” The License Agreement Screen will be displayed on your
computer.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Figure 13.
c. Click “Next.” The User Information Screen will be displayed on your computer.
Enter your name and organization (optional) and select if the software will be
accessible to your account or anyone who uses the computer.
Modbus License Acceptance Screen
d. Click “Next.” The Destination Folder Screen will be displayed on your
computer. The default directory is:
C:\Program Files\B&B Electronics\Vlinx\Modbus Gateway Manager
If desired, you can select another location by pressing the “Browse” button.
User Information Screen Figure 14.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Destination Folder Screen Figure 15.
e. Click “Next.” The Ready to Install Application Screen will be displayed on your
computer. You can select the “Back” button to change destination folder.
Ready to Install Application Screen Figure 16.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
f. Click “Next.” The software will begin installing.
Software Installing Screen Figure 17.
g. Click “Next.” The Installation Complete screen will be displayed on your
computer. Click “Finish” to finish the installation.
Installation Complete Screen Figure 18.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
CONFIGURING THE MESP211 VIA THE NETWORK CONNECTION
When configuring via the network, either Modbus Gateway Manager software or the web
interface can be used.
CONFIGURING THE MODBUS GATEWA Y MANAGER
MESP211 Modbus Gateways can be configured over the network Modbus Gateway Manager
software running on a PC.
To open Modbus Gateway Manager:
1. From the Desktop, click Start Programs B&B Electronics Vlinx Vlinx
Modbus Gateway ManagerModbus Gateway Manager. An alternate method is to
double click the shortcut installed on the desktop.
Opening Vlinx Modbus Gateway Manager Figure 19.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Vlinx Modbus Gateway Manager Shortcut Icon Figure 20.
The Vlinx Modbus Gateway Manager Device Discovery window appears.
If you do not know the IP address, check the “Network” and “I don’t know the IP
address of this device” selections and press the “Connect Button.” The software
will discover any MESP211 Gateways on the network. The configuration manager
screen will be displayed on your computer. All available devices will be listed on
the top portion of this screen. If you know the IP address, you may select “The
Device is located at this IP address” and input the address in the box provided.
Modbus Gateway Manager Discovery Window Figure 21.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Configuration Manager Screen Figure 22.
2. All Modbus Gateways on the network will be displayed in the top portion of the
screen. To select a gateway, simply click the appropriate device on the top
portion of the screen.
a. The main portion of the screen displays the Model, Firmware version,
Hardware Version, MAC Address, and Link Status. The IP Address is also
displayed on the top portion of the screen and title graphic area.
3. There is no password unless you choose to enter one. The default password is no
password at all. Click the “Login” button. The “General” Settings screen will be
displayed on your computer.
Vlinx Modbus Manager Settings Screen Overview
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Settings Screen Overview Figure 23.
a. This area shows Modbus Gateways available on the network.
b. This area is used to skip directly to the specific configuration screen you need
to access. An alternate method of accessing the configuration screens is to
use the “Next” button in area C.
c. This area contains dialog boxes specific the configuration screen.
1. Note: Any configuration changes you make need to be saved
using the “Save” button.
d. This area contains helpful information about the configuration screen you are
currently on.
e. This area contains shortcuts to specific functions.
1. “Open” allows you to load a previously saved configuration file into
your Modbus Gateway.
2. “Save” allows you to save your configuration to a file. This should
not be confused with the “Save” button described in 6.c above.
3. “Search” allows you to search for Modbus Gateways on the
network.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
4. “Upgrade” allows you to upgrade your Modbus Gateway’s firmware.
5. “Diagnostic” allows you to test a configured Modbus Gateway. See
Section 5.
6. “Monitor” allows you to monitor a Modbus Gateway. See Section 5.
7. “About” contains information about your Modbus Gateway.
Note: If an unacceptable value or character is entered on any of the configuration screens,
the background turns yellow. You will be unable to leave this screen as long as the yellow
background is present. When an acceptable value is entered, the yellow background goes
away and you can leave the screen.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
GENE R A L S E T T I N G S
General Settings Screen Figure 24.
a. This screen enables you to assign a unique name to the gateway. This allows
you to easily identify a particular gateway when multiple devices are used on
the same network. To change the name, type a new name in the “The Name
of this Modbus Gateway is” box. The name must be a valid "hostname" as
defined by RFC-952 and RFC-1123. Allowed characters are A to Z, a to z, 0 to
9 and “-“. The “-“symbol cannot be the first or last character. The name
cannot consist of numbers only. To save the new name click the “Save”
button.
b. You can also change the gateway’s password on this screen. To do this, check
the “I want to change the password” box. New password entry boxes will
appear on the screen.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Changing The Password Figure 25.
c. Type your new password in the “Type the new password box.” Verify the
password by typing it again in the box provided. To save the new
password click the “Save” button.
4. Network Settings
a. To get to the Network Settings Screen you can either click the “Next Button”
or click on the “Network” link on the left side of the screen.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Network Settings Screen (DHCP Selected) Figure 26.
b. The default network configuration is to receive an IP address assignment from
a DHCP server. DHCP controls whether or not a DHCP server is used to set
the IP address, subnet mask and default gateway of the Modbus Gateway.
When DHCP option is enabled but the DHCP server is not found, the Modbus
Gateway will automatically configure IP address 169.254.102.39 with a
subnet mask 255.255.0.0
c. To configure your Modbus Gateway without using a DHCP Server, uncheck the
“I want DHCP to setup the network” box. You will need to know the IP
Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway.
IP Address field contains static internet protocol address of the Modbus
Gateway.
Subnet Mask field contains mask that is used to define sub network.
For Class A network (IP addresses 0.0.0.0 through 127.255.255.255), the
default subnet mask is 255.0.0.0.
For Class B network (IP addresses 128.0.0.0 through 191.255.255.255), the
default subnet mask is 255.255.0.0.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
For Class C network (IP addresses 192.0.0.0 through 223.255.255.255), the default subnet
mask is 255.255.255.0.
For Class D network (IP addresses 224.0.0.0 through 239.255.255.255) and
Class E network (IP addresses 240.0.0.0 through 255.255.255.255), the
subnet mask is ignored.
Default Gateway field contains default route to remote networks.
d. More information about assigning an IP address without using a DHCP Server
is contained in the section Configuring the MESP211 on Networks without a
DHCP Server.
e. Save changes by Clicking the “Save” button.
5. Modbus TCP Settings
a. To access this screen, click the “Next Button” or click on the Modbus TCP link
on the left side of the screen.
b. This screen allows you Modbus TCP client and server settings.
Network Settings Screen (DHCP not Selected) Figure 27.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
c. TCP Client Settings
1. Connect to Port identifies TCP port to be used by the Modbus Gateway
in TCP client mode. Valid value range is from 1 to 65535.
2. Response Timeout is the maximum amount of time to wait for a
response to a request that is sent to the device connected through
TCP. Valid value range is from 1 to 65535.
3. Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
b. TCP Server Settings
1. Listen on Port identifies TCP port to be used by the Modbus Gateway in
TCP server mode. Valid value range is from 1 to 65535.
2. “Limit the number of connections to” pull down box allows you to
control the number of simultaneous TCP clients that can be connected.
Choices are 1 through 16.
Modbus TCP Settings Screen Figure 28.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
3. Connection Filter Mode controls which TCP clients are able to connect.
The default is: “and allow everyone to connect.”
a. You can select “allow specific IP addresses to connect.”
This filter is limited to 4 IP addresses.
b. You can select “a specific range of IP addresses to
connect.” This filter is limited to 4 IP address ranges
TCP Connection Filter “Allow Specific IP Addresses to Connect” Figure 29.
c. Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
TCP Connection Filter “Allow Specific Range of IP Addresses to Connect” Figure 30.
6. Port 1 Settings
To access this screen, click the “Next” button or click the Port 1 Serial link on the
left side of the screen.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
a. This screen allows you to change the serial port settings.
Serial Port Screen Figure 31.
b. Description - sets the description for this serial port. Maximum length is 32
symbols. Allowed characters are symbols from 'A' to 'Z', from 'a' to 'z',
numbers from '0' to '9' and the space.
c. Mode – Controls the physical communications mode for the MESP211. The
Mode can be RS-232, RS-422 (4-Wire), RS-485 (2-Wire), or RS-485 (4-Wire).
d. Stop Bits – Controls the number of bits to end a character. Choices are 1 or 2.
e. Parity – Controls the error checking mode. Choices are Odd, Even, Mark, or
Space.
f. Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
7. Port 1 Modbus
a. To access this screen, click the “Next” button or click the “Port 1 Modbus” Link
on the left side of the screen. This screen allows you to change the Modbus
settings for the port.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Modbus Port Screen Figure 32.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Modbus Port Screen Advanced Figure 33.
b. Attached – This is selectable between Master and Slaves. If Master is
selected, the Modbus Gateway will run in TCP server mode, if Slaves is
selected, it will run in TCP client mode.
c. Modbus – indicates the protocol of the device connected to the port. It can be
either RTU or ASCII.
d. Modbus Broadcast – Check this box to send Modbus broadcasts to a specific
serial port. Modbus broadcast is Slave ID 0h. If selected the Gateway will
send broadcast messages out the serial port and will not expect a response. If
unselected it will use slave ID 0h as a standard address.
e. Enable 0Bh Exception – Check this box to enable. When the Modbus slave
device does not respond before the timeout has been reached or has a bad
response (check sum does not match), the 0Bh exception code is transmitted
to the Master that initiated the Modbus message.
f. Enable Serial Message Buffering – If this option is selected, the gateway will
buffer up to 32 messages request per port. If this option is unselected, the
gateway will respond with a 06h if it has a message out on the port with no
response yet.
g. Modbus Serial Retries – Select 0 through 5. This sets the maximum number
of times that the Modbus Gateway will retry to send a Modbus message to a
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Modbus client, before reporting a 0Bh exception if it is selected. Number of
retries is limited to 5.
h. Milliseconds Modbus Message Timeout – This is the maximum amount of time
to wait for a response to the message. Valid value range is from 1 to 65535.
i. Milliseconds TX Delay – This is the minimum amount of time after receiving a
response before the next message can be sent out. Valid value range is from
1 to 65535.
j. Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
8. Port 1 ID Remap
a. To access this screen, click the “Next” button or click the “Port 1 ID Remap”
link on the left side of the screen.
b. This screen allows you to set Modbus Slave ID Remap settings.
Port ID Remap Screen Figure 34.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
c. The first box in line is the start of the remap range on the serial port you
want to remap. Valid value range is from 1 to 247.
d. The second box in line is the last serial port of that range. Valid value range is
from 1 to 247.
e. The third box in line is the starting ID of a range to remap to. Valid value
range is from 1 to 247.
f. The fourth box in line is auto filled, based on the range filled in the first 3
boxes. Valid value range is from 1 to 247.
g. Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
9. Modbus ID Routing
a. To access this screen click the “Next” button or click the “Modbus ID Routing”
Link on the left side of the screen.
This screen allows you to set the Modbus Slave ID routing.
Modbus ID Routing Screen Figure 35.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
b. The first box in line is the starting ID of a range you want to route. Valid
value range is from 1 to 247.
c. The second box in line is the last ID of that range. Valid value range is from 1
to 247.
d. The third box in line is a port or IP address which has slave devices attached.
e. The fourth box in line is an IP address of the slave device if IP address is
chosen in the third box.
f. Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
10. Modbus Priority
a. To access this screen, click the “Next” button or click the “Modbus Priority”
link on the left side of the screen.
b. This screen allows you to configure the gateway to move high priority
messages to the front of the serial message buffer.
c. These settings allow the gateway to move high priority messages to the front
of the serial message buffer. The priority can be based on the originating
Modbus Priority Screen Figure 36.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
IP address, the Modbus ID, the Modbus function code, or any combination of
the three. Up to five different priorities can be set.
d. IP Address – Used to set a static Internet protocol address for the Modbus
Gateway.
e. Modbus ID – Valid range is from 1 to 247.
f. Function Code – Valid range is from 1 to 99.
Save settings by clicking the “Save” button.
CONFIGURING WITH THE WEB INTERFACE
MESP211 Modbus Gateways can be configured over the network using a standard web
browser such as Internet Explorer or Firefox.
To open the web configuration interface:
1. On a PC connected to the network, open a web browser.
2. In the browser’s address bar, type the IP address of the Modbus Gateway.
Open Web Browser Figure 37.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Type IP Address Figure 38.
Note: Your Modbus Gateway comes from the factory pre-configured to receive an IP address
assignment from a DHCP server. If a DHCP Server is not available on your network, it will
default to 169.254.102.39.
The web interface Login page appears.
3. The screens for configuring your gateway using a web browser are the same as
those used to configure using the Vlinx Modbus Manager software.
Modbus Gateway Login Screen Figure 39.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
CONFIGURING THE MESP211 ON NET WORKS WITHOUT A DHCP SERVER
Your Modbus Gateway comes from the factory set up to receive an IP assignment from a
DHCP Server. If there is not a DHCP server on your network, the Modbus Gateway will
default to IP address 169.254.102.39. If this address does not work with your PC, there
are two methods to manually configure the network information.
1. Method 1: Change your PC Network to Match the Modbus Gateway
a. Open your network connection
Click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click <properties>. Change the
parameters to the following:
IP Address = 169.254.102.1
Subnet Mask = 255.255.0.0
Default Gateway = 169.254.102.100
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
b. Use the Vlinx Modbus Manager Software to search for, discover, and
configure the Modbus Gateway.
2. Method 2: Change the Modbus Gateway’s network settings to match your PC
using Console Mode. (Console mode works in RS-232 only.)
a. Connect a null modem serial cable (crossover cable) from Port 1 on the
Modbus Gateway to an available COM port on your PC.
b. Enter Console Mode. Press and hold the Modbus Gateway’s Mode switch
for 2 to 10 seconds. Release the reset button. The READY LED will blink
for five seconds. This indicates that the Modbus Gateway is re-booting in
Console Mode.
c. When the Modbus Gateway has successfully restarted in Console Mode,
the READY LED will be OFF and the PORT 1 LED will be ON.
d. Open the Vlinx Modbus Manager Software and select “Serial Port” as the
method to connect to the Modbus Gateway.
e. After logging in, click on <Network>.
f. Un-check the box next to “I Want DHCP to setup the Network.”
g. Re-configure the Modbus Gateway’s network settings to something within
the range of your PC’s network settings. For example:
PC Network Settings
IP Address = 192.168.0.1
Subnet Mask = 255.255.0.0
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Default Gateway = 192.168.0.100
Change the Modbus Gateway’s network settings to:
IP Address = 192.168.0.50
Subnet Mask = 255.255.0.0
Default Gateway = 192.168.0.100
h. Save the settings and remove power from the Modbus Gateway.
i. Re-apply power. Open the Vlinx Modbus Manager Software and select
“Network” as the method to connect to the device.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
CONFIGURING THE MESP211 VIA THE SERI A L PORT (CONSOLE MODE)
Your Modbus Gateway can be configured via a serial port using the Vlinx Modbus Manager
software. To use this feature the Modbus Gateway's serial port must be connected to the
serial port of a PC (using a null modem cable, RS-232 only).
Console Mode Setup Figure 40.
To configure the Modbus Gateway it must be put into Console Mode, using the Mode switch.
To enter Console Mode, press and hold the Mode switch for between two and ten
seconds. The LED indicators respond as follows:
1. The Ready LED blinks while the button is being pressed.
2. When the Modbus Gateway has booted into Console Mode the Ready LED will be
OFF.
To configure the Modbus Gateway, open the software and set up the Modbus Gateway's
parameters as required.
2. Under Connection, select “Serial Port.”
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Connection Figure 41.
3. If you do not know which COM port your gateway is connect to, select “Search all
serial ports for the device” under Serial Port Options. If you do know, you may
specify the COM port by selecting “The device is connected to this serial port”
under Serial Port Options and using the pull down menu to choose the COM port.
4. The remaining screens are identical to those shown in configuring your gateway
using a network connection.
Serial Port Selection Figure 42.
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
To exit Console Mode, press and hold the Reset switch for two seconds.
Saving your configuration will also take you out of Console Mode.
The LEDs go back to their normal states when the device resumes normal operation.
MESP211 OPERATIONAL CONNEC T I ONS
US I N G MESP211 MODBUS GATEWAY S IN DIRE CT IP MODE
A Direct IP connection allows applications using TCP/IP socket programs to communicate
with the COM ports on the Modbus Gateway. In this type of application the Modbus Gateway
is configured as a TCP server. The socket program running on the PC establishes a
communication connection with the Modbus Gateway. The data is sent directly to and from
the serial port on the server.
To set up a Direct IP Mode connection:
1. Connect the Modbus Gateway to the network and a Modbus network as described
in previous sections.
2. Configure the Modbus Gateway with the appropriate network settings (using or
the web interface).
3. Configure your software application with the appropriate IP address and port
number to communicate with the Modbus network(s).
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Setup and Connections Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Direct IP Connection Figure 43.
INITIATING A HARDWARE RESET ON THE MODBUS GATEWAY
To initiate a Hardware Reset on the Modbus Gateway, press and hold the Mode switch
for 0 to 2 seconds, and then release it. The LED indicators respond as follows:
1. The Ready LED blinks while the button is being pressed.
2. When the Modbus Gateway has reset and rebooted into Normal Mode the Ready
LED will be blinking.
REL OADING FACTORY DEFAULTS
To reload Factory Defaults, press and hold the Mode switch for more than 10 seconds.
The LED indicators respond as follows:
1. The Ready LED blinks three times per second while the button is being pressed.
The Modbus Gateway reloads all factory default configuration parameters. When
the device has reset and rebooted the Ready LED will be blinking.
2. The LEDs go back to their normal states when the device resumes normal
operation.
Note: Factory default parameters are listed in Appendix A
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Upgrading Firmware Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
4. U PGRADING FIRMWARE
Occasionally, updated firmware may become available for your Modbus Gateway. The
firmware can be upgraded using the Vlinx Manager software. The following procedure
describes the firmware updating process:
1. Click the Upgrade button to open the Firmware Upgrade dialog box.
The name of the currently selected Modbus Gateway appears in the top drop
down list. Other Modbus Gateways (that have already been discovered) can be
selected from the drop down list, if desired.
The current firmware version of the selected Modbus Gateway is shown in the
text below the Modbus Gateway name.
Information about the selected firmware file is shown in the third text box.
Firmware Upgrade Dialog Box Figure 44.
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Upgrading Firmware Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
DOWNLOADING FIRMWARE FILES
The Firmware File list (second box) displays all firmware files in the firmware installation
folder. Only firmware that is compatible with the selected Modbus Gateway is available in
this list.
To download the latest firmware files from an FTP site on the Internet:
1. Click the Internet button at the bottom of the window.
The Vlinx Modbus Manager software connects to an FTP server on the Internet.
2. Click the Check for Updates button.
Progress Bar and Progress Box display information about and progress of the
download.
To download the latest firmware files from a file:
1. Click the Browse button to open an Open File dialog box.
2. Browse to the drive and folder containing the firmware file.
3. Select and download the file to the local firmware folder.
UPL OADING THE FIRMWARE TO THE M ODBUS GATEWAY
To upgrade the firmware:
1. In the Modbus Gateway Selection drop down list, select the Modbus Gateway
to be upgraded.
2. In the Firmware Description drop down list, select the firmware to upload to
the Modbus Gateway.
3. Click the Upgrade button.
Progress Bar and Progress Box provides information on the progress of the
transfer.
4. In the Firmware File drop down list, select the firmware file to upload to the
Modbus Gateway.
5. Click Upgrade.
The Progress box and Progress bar display information on the upgrading process.
6. When the upgrade process is complete, click Close.
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Diagnostics Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
5. DIAGNOSTICS
Clicking the Diagnostics icon opens the Diagnostics dialog box and enables you to check
the operation of connected Modbus Gateways on the local computer.
The Computer Information box displays information about the type of network
connections, the IP addresses, Subnet Masks and Default Gateways in use.
Diagnostics Dialog Box Figure 45.
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Diagnostics Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
TEST ING A MODBUS GATEWAY CONNECTION
To run diagnostics on a Modbus Gateway:
1. Click the Diagnostics icon.
The Diagnostics dialog box appears.
2. In the drop down box select the specific Modbus Gateway you want to check.
3. Click the Start button
Information about the progress of the pinging process is displayed in the Test
Progress box.
Testing a Modbus Gateway Connection Figure 46.
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Diagnostics Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
MONI T OR FUNCTION
The Monitor button is used to display a screen that shows information about events and
data transfer through the Modbus Gateway.
To start monitoring, select a Modbus Gateway and press the “Start” button.
The “Auto Scroll” check box enables and disables automatic scrolling of the displayed text.
The “Clear” button clears the displayed text.
Press the “Stop” button to stop monitoring.
Press the “Save” button to save the information to a file.
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Setup Examples Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
6. SETUP EXAMPLES
Modbus Gateways can be used to integrate Modbus networks in a wide variety of settings.
But as each setting has its own requirements, users may not understand how a gateway
helps, or if it’s appropriate for their specific needs.
The following scenarios are examples only, and many others are possible. Refer to the
Modbus Serial Server page on the B&B Electronics web site for detailed information
regarding other applications.
Log into your gateway.
1. Access the serial port one setup screen by clicking the link on the left side of the
screen.
2. Configure Serial Port 1. In this case it is RS-232, 19.2 kbps, 8 data bits, 1 stop
bit, and no parity. Save the settings
3. Access Port 1 Modbus by clicking the link on the left side of the screen.
Serial Port 1 Setup Figure 47.
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Setup Examples Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Figure 48.
Port 1 Modbus
4. Configure the Port 1 Modbus Settings. In this case Attached should be slaves,
Modbus should be RTU. The other settings depend on your application.
5. Configure Port 2 Serial and Modbus in the same fashion.
6. Access Modbus ID Remapping for each port and configure as necessary.
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Setup Examples Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Figure 49.
Port 1 Modbus Slave ID Remapping
7. Access Modbus ID Routing. Configure as necessary. In this example, Slave ID
200 is mapped to serial Port 1, Slave ID 1 through 5 and 205 are mapped to
serial port 2.
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Setup Examples Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Modbus ID Routing Figure 50.
8. Access Modbus Priority and configure as necessary.
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Setup Examples Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Modbus Priority Figure 51.
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Modbus Help Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
7. MODBUS HELP
MODBUS ASCII/RTU BASICS
The Modbus protocol emerged in the mid-1970s as an early protocol for linking terminals
with Modicon PLCs using a master/slave (sometimes called a master/client) relationship. A
simple, open, message-based protocol, it caught on quickly and became a de facto standard
in the industry. It supports asynchronous point-to-point and multidrop communications and
can be used with a variety of serial interfaces (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, modems, etc.).
The original Modbus specification included two possible transmission modes: ASCII and
RTU. Modbus RTU mode is the most common implementation, using binary coding and CRC
error-checking. Modbus ASCII messages, though somewhat more readable because they
use ASCII characters, is less efficient and uses less effective LRC error checking. ASCII
mode uses ASCII characters to begin and end messages whereas RTU uses time gaps (3.5
character times) of silence for framing. The two modes are incompatible so a device
configured for ASCII mode cannot communicate with one using RTU.
All Modbus communications are initiated by Modbus masters using a polling query/response
format. The master can send broadcast messages (using a slave address of 0), which all
slaves accept, but do not reply to. More commonly the master polls individual slaves
sequentially. In each poll it sends a message containing a device address, followed by a
function code, any data that maybe required, and an error check field. The addressed
slave responds with a similar message structure. Typically it repeats back its address and
the function code, and then sends a field indicating the number of bytes of data it is
sending, followed by the data and the error check field.
Slave addresses can range from 1 to 247. Function codes include several common ones
typically used in all applications, and additional ones that may be implemented in specific
cases. Common function codes include: Read Coil Status (01), Read Input Status (02), Read
Holding Registers (03) and Read Input Registers (04).
When a master sends a message to a slave it expects to receive a valid response within
certain length of time. If the slave does not receive the message, or if the slave receives the
message but an error is detected, it does not respond. If the slave cannot respond
appropriately for some other reason (e.g. it does not recognize the function code), it will
return a message containing an exception response.
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Modbus Help Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
HINT S AND TIPS
A few simple suggestions that may assist you if your system is experiencing problems
include:
Slowing down the polling rate may be helpful if power cycling doesn’t cure the
problem.
A common misperception is that every serial network must terminate with a
resistor. While this was true of early serial network configurations, it’s typically
the wrong answer.
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
8. APPENDICES
This section includes the following Appendices:
Appendix A: Default Gateway Settings
Appendix B: Product Specifications
Appendix C: Dimensional Diagrams
Appendix D: Connector Pinouts
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Setting
Default Value
Gateway Name
User assigned
Password
password field is blank
from factory
DHCP
Enabled from factory
IP Address
DHCP will configure. If a
DHCP Server is not
available, the unit will
default to
169.254.102.39
Net Mask
255.255.0.0
Default Gateway
169.254.1.1
MAC Address
Fixed - see bottom label
Port
1
Serial port mode
RS-485
Baud Rate
9600
Data bits
8
Parity
None
Stop bits
1
Protocol
TCP
Serial timeout
0 seconds
Inter-character timer
0 ms
TCP port
502
Max connection
1
APPENDIX A: DEFAULT GATEWAY SETTINGS
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APPENDIX B: PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
This section includes the following specifications:
General Specifications
Controls, Indicators and Connector Specifications
Serial Interface Specifications
Network Specifications
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Hardware and
included
accessories
Device
Modbus Gateway module
CD
CD with software for Win XP (32/64 bit),
2003 Server (32/64 bit), Vista (32/64 bit),
Windows 7 (32/64 bit), Windows 2008
Server (32/64 bit), Windows Server 2012
Configuration
Options
Via serial port
Using via a serial connection, (press Reset
button to enter Console Mode)
Via network
Using Vlinx Gateway Manager via an
Ethernet connection
Using a standard web browser such as
Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome
Software
For Modbus
Gateway
configuration
Win XP (32/64 bit), 2003 Server (32/64
bit), Vista (32/64 bit), Windows 7 (32/64
bit), Windows 2008 Server (32/64 bit),
Windows 8 (32/64 bit), Windows Server
2012
Environment
Operating
Temperature
-40 to 80 °C (-40 to 176 °F)
Storage
Temperature
-40 to 85 °C (-40 to 185 °F)
Operating
Humidity
10 to 95% non-condensing
Enclosure
Rating
IP30
Mounting
Panel mountable case with DIN rail mount
option
Dimensions
3.1 x 0.9 x 2.0 (with ears 2.89) inches
Power Supply
(External
Supply
Required)
Voltage
Requirements
10 to 30 VDC
Power
Consumption
2.5 W
Terminal Blocks
(Note: One
conductor
Per terminal)
Wire Size
28 to 16 AWG
Wire Type
Copper Wire Only
Tightening
Torque
5 KG-cm
Wire Temp
Rating
105°C Minimum, Sized for 60°C Ampacity
GEN ERAL SPECIFICATIONS
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Switches
Reset button
Hold in for 0 to 2 seconds for
hardware reset
Hold in for 2 to 10 seconds for
Console Mode (Do a hardware reset
or recycle power to exit Console
Mode)
Hold in for more than 10 seconds to
reset to factory defaults
Indicators
Serial LED
Color = Green
On = Port open
Blink = Data traffic
RJ45 Ethernet
Link LED
Color = Green
On = 100BaseTX
Off = 10BaseT
Blink = Data traffic
Ready LED
Color = Green
Blink (once per second) = System in
Normal Mode
Off = System in Console Mode
Connectors
10BaseT/100
BaseTX
Ethernet
RJ-45 (8 pin)
Serial
DB9M connector or terminal block
DC Power
External
CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND CONNECTOR SPECIFICATIONS
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
FCC
Part 15 Class A
CE
APPROVALS AND CERTIFICATIONS
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Mode Selection
RS-232/422/485 software selectable
RS-232 lines
TXD, RXD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR, DCD,
GND
RS-422 lines (4 wire)
TXDA(-), TXDB(+), RXDA(-),
RXDB(+), GND
RS-485 lines (2 wire)
Data(-), Data(+), GND
RS-485 lines (4 wire)
TXDA(-), TXDB(+), RXDA(-),
RXDB(+), GND
Baud Rates
75, 150, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800,
7200, 9600, 14.4k, 19.2k, 28.8k,
38.4k, 57.6k, 115.2k, 230.4k
Data Bits
7, 8
Parity
None, even, odd, mark, space
Stop bits
1, 2
RS-422/485 biasing
Auto 1 K ohm pullups and pulldowns
RS-485 data control
Auto control via MCU
SER I A L INTERFACE SPECIFICATIONS
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Memory
Serial
Memory
8 kB per port
Network
Memory
4 kB
TCP Ports
80
Web Server
502
Modbus client/server port – user
configurable
7000
TCP Configuration
10000
Monitor Port
UDP Ports
7000
UDP Configuration
8899
Device Discovery
Network
Communications
LAN
10/100 Mbps Auto-detecting 10BaseT or
100BaseTX
Network
Physical Layer
Standards
Ethernet
IEEE 802.3 auto-detecting & auto
MDI/MDX 10BaseT, 100BaseTX and
100BaseFX
Protocols
Supported
TCP, IPv4, ARP, HTTP 1.0, ICMP/PING,
DHCP/BOOTP
IP Mode
Static, DHCP or Auto IP
TCP
User definable
Connection
Modes
Server, Client
Search
Serial direct COM and Ethernet auto
search or specific IP
Firmware
Upgrade
Via serial or Ethernet
Timeouts
Modbus
Message
1 to 65535 ms, default set at 2,000 ms
TX Delay
1 to 65535 ms, default set at 10 ms
Custom Timeouts
Intercharacter
100 to 5000 ms, default set at 0 – user to
set if enabled
Intermessage
100 to 5000 ms, default set at 0 – user to
set if enabled
NETWORK SPECIFICATIONS
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APPENDIX C: DIMENSIONAL DIAGR AM
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DB9 Male
Pin
Direction
(RS-232)
RS-232
RS-422
RS-485
4-Wire
RS-485
2-Wire
1
Input
DCD
RDA (-)
****
2
Input
RXD
RDB (+)
****
3
Output
TXD
TDB (+)
Data B
(+)
4
Output
DTR
TDA (-)
Data A (-
) 5 ****
GND
GND
GND
6
Input
DSR
****
****
7
Output
RTS
****
****
8
Input
CTS
****
****
9
****
****
****
****
APPENDIX D: CONNECTOR PINOUTS
MESP211 SERIAL PORT PI N O UT S
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Appendices Vlinx MESP211 Modbus Gateway
Terminal
RS-232
Direction
(RS-232)
RS-422
RS-485
A
RTS
Output
TDA (-)
Data A
(-)
B
TD
Output
TDB (+)
Data B
(+)
C
CTS
Input
RDA (-)
---
D
RD
Input
RDB (+)
---
E
GND
****
GND
GND
MESP211 TERMINAL BLOCK PINOUT S
In the RS-422 mode, TX lines are outputs and RX lines are inputs. Connect the Modbus
Gateway TXB(+) line to the RXB(+) line of the Modbus network, and the Modbus Gateway
TXA(-) to the RXA(-) of the Modbus network.
Ground is signal ground and provides a common mode reference for the RS-422 Receiver
and Transmitters.
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