Modbus Serial Module for
CompactLogix L1 and Point I/O
Adapters
January 24, 2019
USER MANUAL
User Manual
Your Feedback Please
We always want you to feel that you made the right decision to use our products. If you have suggestions,
comments, compliments or complaints about our products, documentation, or support, please write or call us.
In an effort to conserve paper, ProSoft Technology no longer includes printed manuals with our product
shipments. User Manuals, Datasheets, Sample Ladder Files, and Configuration Files are provided at our
website: www.prosoft-technology.com
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 3 of 37
January 24, 2019
ILX34-MBS User Manual
Page 4 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
ILX34-MBS User Manual
Contents
Your Feedback Please ........................................................................................................................ 3
How to Contact Us .............................................................................................................................. 3
5.1 Contacting Technical Support ................................................................................. 35
5.2 Warranty Information ............................................................................................... 37
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 5 of 37
January 24, 2019
Start Here
Qty.
Part Name
Part Number
Part Description
1
ILX34-MBS Adapter
ILX34-MBS
POINT I/O Adapter
1 Start Here
This user manual will help you set up and configure the ILX34-MBS module. You
should be somewhat familiar with the following:
Rockwell Automation® Studio 5000 Logix Designer v21 (for
CompactLogix L1 processors) or Rockwell Automation® RSLogix™ 5000
version 16 or greater (for 1734 Point I/O adapters).
Hardware Installation and Wiring
1.1 ILX34-MBS Overview
The ILX34-MBS is the ideal solution for the many distributed I/O applications
where Modbus connectivity can be integrated into an Allen Bradley System. The
ILX34-MBSxxx is configured using Rockwell Automation Studio 5000
(CompactLogix L1) and RSLogix 5000 (Point I/O Controllers). The modules work
in both the 1734 Point I/O adapters and the CompactLogix L1 processors.
1.2 Package Contents
The following components are included with your ILX34-MBS adapter, and are
required for installation and configuration.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 7 of 37
January 24, 2019
Start Here
1.3 System Requirements
The ILX34-MBS requires the following minimum hardware and software
components:
Rockwell Automation® processor, with compatible power supply
oCompactLogix™ L1 Processors or 1734- Point I/O adapters,
Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000/Studio 5000 programming software
Rockwell Automation RSLinx communication software version 2.54 or higher
Pentium® II 450 MHz minimum. Pentium III 733 MHz (or better)
recommended
Supported operating systems:
o Microsoft Windows
o Microsoft Windows Vista
o Microsoft Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 1 or 2
o Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional with Service Pack 1, 2, or 3
o Microsoft Windows Server 2003
128 Mbytes of RAM minimum, 256 Mbytes of RAM recommended
Microsoft Windows Explorer version 7
256-color VGA graphics adapter, 800 x 600 minimum resolution (True Color
1024 768 recommended)
®
7
Note: The Hardware and Operating System requirements in this list are the minimum
recommended to install and run software provided by ProSoft Technology. Other third party
applications may have different minimum requirements. Refer to the documentation for any third
party applications for system requirements.
Page 8 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Installing the Adapter
2 Installing the Adapter
2.1 Installing the Mounting Base/Wiring Base Assembly
The wiring base assembly consists of a mounting base and a removable terminal
block. You can install the assembly or just the mounting base. Perform the
following to install the base/wiring base assembly:
1. Position the mounting base/wiring base assembly vertically above the
installed units (adapter, power supply, or existing module).
2. Slide the mounting base down allowing the interlocking side pieces to
engage the adjacent module or adapter.
3. Press firmly to seat the mounting base on the DIN Rail. The mounting
base snaps into place.
4. To remove the mounting base from the DIN rail, remove any installed
module (and any module immediately to the right) and use a small blade
screwdriver to rotate the DIN rail locking screw to a vertical position. This
releases the locking mechanism. Lift straight up to remove the mounting
base.
5. Repeat this procedure for the next mounting base assembly.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 9 of 37
January 24, 2019
Installing the Adapter
2.2 Installing an I/O Module
Make sure that the mounting base is correctly keyed before installing the module
into the mounting base. In addition, make sure the mounting base locking screw
is positioned horizontal referenced to the base.
Warning: When you insert or remove the module while backplane power is on, an electrical arc
can occur. This could cause an explosion in hazardous location installations.
Be sure that power is removed or the area is non-hazardous before proceeding.
1. Using a blade screwdriver, rotate the key switch on the mounting base
clockwise until the number required for the type of module being installed
aligns with the notch in the base.
2. Make certain the DIN-rail locking screw is in the horizontal position. You
cannot insert the module if the locking mechanism is unlocked.
3. Insert the module straight down into the mounting base and press to
secure. The module locks into place.
Page 10 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Installing the Adapter
2.3 Installing the Removable Terminal Block
A removable terminal block is supplied with the mounting base assembly. To
remove, pull up on the RTB handle. This allows the base to be removed and
replaced as necessary without removing any of the wiring. The following
instructions show how to reinsert the removable terminal block:
1. Insert the RTB end opposite the handle into the base unit. This end has a
curved section that engages with the mounting base.
Warning: When you connect or disconnect the Removable Terminal Block (RTB) with the
field side power applied, an electrical arc can occur. This could cause an explosion in
hazardous location installations.
Be sure that power is removed or the area is non-hazardous before proceeding.
2. Rotate the terminal block into the mounting base until it locks itself in
place.
3. If an I/O module is installed, snap the RTB handle into place on the
module.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 11 of 37
January 24, 2019
Installing the Adapter
2.4 Removing a Mounting Base
In order to remove a mounting base, you must remove any installed module, and
remove the Removable Terminal Block (if wired).
1. Unlatch the RTB handle on the I/O module.
2. Pull on the RTB handle to remove the Removable Terminal Block.
Warning: When you connect or disconnect the Removable Terminal Block (RTB) with the
field side power applied, an electrical arc can occur. This could cause an explosion in
hazardous location installations.
Be sure that power is removed or the area is non-hazardous before proceeding.
3. Press on the module lock on the top of the module and pull up on the I/O
module to remove from the base.
Warning: When you insert or remove the module while backplane power is on, an
electrical arc can occur. This could cause an explosion in a hazardous location.
Be sure that power is removed or the area is non-hazardous before proceeding.
4. Remove the module to the right of the base. The interlocking portion of
the base sits under the adjacent module.
5. Use a small screwdriver to rotate the orange DIN-rail locking screw on the
mounting base to a vertical position. This releases the locking
mechanism.
6. Lift the mounting base and remove.
Page 12 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Installing the Adapter
2.5 Connecting Power
Refer to the appropriate L1Y or Remote Adapter installation guides for adapter
configuration instructions.
2.5.1 CompactLogix L16/L18 Processor Power Connectivity
When using an L16/L18 CompactLogix controller, examine the side labeling of
the controller to determine what Series it is. It will be listed next to the model
number. The device power specification is 10 to 28.8 VDC.
There are two Series of the L16/L18 controllers:
Series A requires two separate NEC Class 2 24V power supplies
for the controller power and field power.
Series B uses a single 24V power supply and requires that the field
power be jumped from the controller power. The VDC+ should be
jumped to the FP+, and the VDC- should be jumped to the FP- as
shown below. It uses isolated circuits and does not require a NEC
Class 2 rated unit.
VDC+ to FP+
VDC- to FP-
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 13 of 37
January 24, 2019
Installing the Adapter
RS-232
-15 to +15 VDC
RS-422/485
-7 to +12 VDC
2.5.2 Module Terminations
The voltage for the serial signal lines are:
Caution: Do not connect 120/240V AC power to this supply.
Warning: If you connect or disconnect wiring while the field-side power is on, an electrical arc can
occur. This could cause an explosion in hazardous location installations.
Be sure that power is removed or the area is nonhazardous before proceeding.
Page 14 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
3 Configuration
The ILX34-MBS module supports several Point I/O Controllers and Adapters:
To configure the ILX34-MBS module with a 1734-AENT adapter:
1. Refer to the 1734-AENT documentation for information on configuring the
adapter.
2. Refer to Create Module I/O Configuration on page 18 to configure the
ILX34-MBS module for this adapter.
3. Set the chassis size as described in the 1734-AENT/AENTR
documentation.
3.2 1734-ACNR
To configure the ILX34-MBS module with a 1734-ACNR adapter:
1. Refer to the 1734-ACNR documentation for information on configuring the
adapter.
2. Refer to Create Module I/O Configuration on page 18 to configure the
ILX34-MBS module for this adapter.
3. Schedule the ControlNet as described in the 1734-ACNR documentation.
3.3 1769-L16ER-BB1B, L18ER-BB1B, and L18ERM-BB1B
Follow the instructions in the Sample Configuration procedure in this section.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 15 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
3.4 Sample Configuration Procedure
Note: The following example procedures are accomplished using Rockwell Automation's
Studio 5000 Designer, but apply to RSLogix as well. If you are installing this module into a
1734-AENT or ACNR, use RSLogix 5000 v16 or greater and skip to the section entitled
Create Module I/O Configuration.
1. Open Studio 5000 and click Create New Project.
2. Expand CompactLogix 5370 Controller. Select the appropriate
processor from the list:
4. Click Next to open the Project Configuration dialog.
Page 16 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
5. Select the Expansion I/O module number. If the modules present do not
match the modules specified in the Project, unexpected control may
occur. The Expansion I/O setting must match the actual number of
modules.
6. Click Finish. The following window opens.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 17 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
3.4.1 Create Module I/O Configuration
1. Right-click on Expansion I/O and select New Module. The Select
Module Type dialog opens.
2. Locate 1734-MODULE (Generic 1734 Module) by scrolling the list or
using the Search filter.
Page 18 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Register/Discrete
Max Size per
Modbus Message
Input
Assembly
Instance
Input
Size
Output
Assembly
Instance
Output
Size
Configuration
Assembly
Instance
Configuration
Size
8/128
101
34
102
26
103
38
24/384
105
66
106
58
103
38
36/576
107
90
108
82
103
38
3. Click Create. The New Module dialog opens.
4. Enter a Name for the module.
5. The Connection Parameters section is dependent on the application
that you are using. There are three different block transfer sizes allowed
by the module.
6. Ensure that the Comm Format is set to Data-SINT and that the Slot field
matches the Slot Number that the module will reside in. Configuration for
a Block Transfer size of 36 is shown below.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 19 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
7. Click OK. The Module Properties Report dialog opens.
8. Set the RPI time to a value larger than 50 ms.
9. Click Apply then click OK. The module now appears under Expansion Module in the tree.
Page 20 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
3.4.2 Importing the Add-On Instruction (AOI)
1. Under Tasks, expand Main Task > Main Program.
2. Double-click on the Main Routine icon.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 21 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
3. Right-click anywhere in an empty ladder rung and select Import Rungs...
4. In the Import Rung dialog, navigate to the .L5X file location of the
appropriate Add-On rung according to your block transfer size (8, 24, or
36), configured in Connection Parameters.
Example: ILX34-MBS36_AddOn_Rung_v1_1.L5X
5. Click Import. The Import Configuration dialog opens.
Page 22 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Example 1: ILX34-MBS in slot 1 of a local rack.
6. Click on the Tags icon to open the Configure Tag References dialog.
7. In the Final Name column, edit (map) the 3 imported AENT tag names to
reflect the location of the ILX34-MBS in the rack. Also, make sure to enter
the correct slot number reference. Examples are shown below.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 23 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Example 2: ILX34-MBS in slot 4 of remote rack ExRemote network.
8. Click OK. The Add-On rung appears in the Main Routine.
Page 24 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Label
Description
Baud Rate
0 = 19200
2 = 2400
3 = 4800
4 = 9600
5 = 38400
Serial Comm
0 = 7N2
1 = 7E1
2 = 7O1
3 = 8N1
4 = 8N2
5 = 8E1
6 = 8O1
Protocol
0 = ASCII
1 = RTU
3.4.3 Configuring the ILX34-MBS Modbus Serial Port
1. Double-click Controller Tags from the Controller Organizer.
2. Expand the MBS_Config controller tag.
Serial Port
Set the following parameters to configure the Serial Port.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 25 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Label
Description
Type
Set this to “0” for Master
Timeout
Timeout in centiseconds. The time that the master waits for a
response from the Slave.
Master Configuration
The following parameters must be set to use the module as a Master.
The following example shows the module configured as a Master, 19200 baud,
8N1 (8 Data bits, No Parity, and 1 Stop Bit) Framing, RTU mode with a three
second timeout.
Page 26 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Label
Description
Type
Set this to “1” for Slave.
Slave ID
1 to 255. Set this to the desired Slave ID that the Master is attempting
to access.
Slave Configuration
The Count parameters determine that maximum address that the Master can
access for the ILX34-MBS. The default values represent the max addresses
allowed for the provided Add-On instruction. Valid ranges are: 00001 to 00576,
10001 to 10576, 30001 to 30501 and 40001 to 40501..
Coldboot Bit - If parameters change after initial configuration, use the Coldboot
bit to initiate the changes.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 27 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
3.5 Downloading the Sample Program to the Processor
Note: The key switch on the front of the ControlLogix processor must be in the REM or
Program position.
1. If you are not already online with the processor, open the
Communications menu, and then choose Download. You do not have to download through the processor’s serial port. You may download through
any network connection.
2. When communication is established, Studio 5000 (or RSLogix 5000)
opens a configuration dialog box. Click the Download button to transfer
the sample program to the processor.
3. Studio 5000 (or RSLogix 5000) compiles the program and transfers it to
the processor. This process may take a few minutes.
4. When the download completes, the configuration program opens another
Confirmation dialog box. If the key switch is in the REM position, click OK
to switch the processor from PROGRAM mode to RUN mode.
Note: If you receive an error message during these steps, refer to the Rockwell
Automation documentation to interpret and correct the error.
Page 28 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Label
Description
Enable
0 = Disable
1 = Enable the Command: Polling and Trigger
allowed.
2 = Enable the Command: Only Trigger allowed.
Node
Node address of the target device on the network (1
to 255).
Function
Function code for the command. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 15
and 16 allowed for Master and Slave. 8 allowed for
Slave only.
DeviceAddress
Address in remote device associated with the
command (0 to 65535).
Count
Number of points associated with the command.
InternalAddress
PLC Tag Internal address associated with the
command.
PollInterval
Minimum number of milliseconds between issuance of
command
(0 to 2,147,483,647).
Swap
0 = None. No change is made in byte ordering.
1 = Words – The words are swapped.
2 = Words & Bytes – The words are swapped, and
then the bytes in each word are swapped.
3 = Bytes – The bytes in each word are swapped.
The words should be swapped only when using an
even number of words.
Trigger
1 = Trigger the message. Can be triggered anytime
the command is enabled.
3.6 Master Command Structure
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 29 of 37
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Label
Description
InputBit
Incoming discreet data for address
ranges 0x and 1x from other devices.
Functions 5 and 15 when device is
configured as a Slave. Functions and 1
and 2 when configured as a Master.
InputRegister
Incoming register data for address
ranges 3x and 4x from other devices.
Functions 6 and 16 when device is
configured as a Slave. Functions and 3
and 4 when configured as a Master.
OutputBit
Outgoing discreet data for address
ranges 0x and 1x from other devices.
Functions 1 and 2 when device is
configured as a Slave. Functions and 5
and 15 when configured as a Master.
OutputRegister
Outgoing register data for address
ranges 3x and 4x from other devices.
Functions 3 and 4 when device is
configured as a Slave. Functions and 6
and 16 when configured as a Master.
3.7 Data Handling
These are the PLC data tags that are use for the Master and Slave. For the
Master, the following tags represent the internal addresses used by the Master
commands. For the Slave, the following tags represent the addresses accessed
by a remote Master.
Page 30 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Configuration
Label
Description
Module
Module Status
1 = Ready for Command
2 = Processing Command
3 = Waiting for Response
4 = Processing Response
RXCnt
Number of messages received
TXCnt
Number of messages transmitted
ErrorCnt
Number of errors
CmdError [x]
The error represented for MBS.MASTERCMD[x].
1 = Invalid Function
2 = Invalid Address
3 = Invalid Data
20 = Checksum Error
21 = Modbus Invalid Message
22 = Modbus Timeout
26 = Float Word Swap Uneven Word Count
-47 = Parity Error
3.8 Module Status
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 31 of 37
January 24, 2019
General Features & Specifications
Configuration Environment
RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000
Max Modbus Command Size
Modbus command sizes are limited to 8, 16, and 36
words per command, depending on AOI selected
Max Modbus Commands
30
Communication Parameters
Baud Rate: 110 to 38.4K baud
Stop Bits: 1 or 2
Data Size: 7 or 8 bits
Parity: None, Even, Odd
Modbus Modes
RTU mode (binary) with CRC-16
ASCII mode with LRC error checking
Node Address
1 to 247
Supported Modbus Function
Codes:
1: Read Coil Status
2: Read Input Status
3: Read Holding Registers
4: Read Input Registers
5: Force (Write) Single Coil
6: Preset (Write) Single Holding Register
8: Diagnostics (Slave Only. Responds to Sub-function 00
15: Force (Write) Multiple Coils
16: Preset (Write) Multiple Holding Registers
4 General Features & Specifications
Add-On instruction creates UDTs, providing logical definitions for I/O,
status, and control data
Diagnostic data available in RSLogix 5000/Studio 5000 controller tags,
allowing decisions to be made based upon node health
Module configuration is backed up in the CompactLogix project (.ACD
file)
Serial port enable/disabled through ladder logic
Supports up to 1000 words of data
Supports up to 30 Modbus commands and up to 36 words per command
The Serial Port can be configured as a Modbus Master or Modbus Slave
device
Suitable for SCADA and field device interface applications
4.1 General Specifications
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 33 of 37
January 24, 2019
General Features & Specifications
Power Supply
10 to 28.8 VDC (Two 24V power supplies needed if
using a Series A L16/L18 controller)
Pointbus Current
75 mA @ 5 VDC
Serial Line Voltages
RS-232: -15 to +15 VDC
RS-422/485: -7 to +12 VDC
Number of Inputs
1 full duplex
Module Location
1734-TB or -TBS wiring base assembly (not included)
1734-TOP or -TOPS
LED Indicators
1 green/red module status indicator
1 green/red network status indicator
2 green TXD, RXD status indicators
Page 34 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Support, Service & Warranty
5 Support, Service & Warranty
5.1 Contacting Technical Support
ProSoft Technology, Inc. (ProSoft) is committed to providing the most efficient
and effective support possible. Before calling, please gather the following
information to assist in expediting this process:
Product Version Number
System architecture
Network details
If the issue is hardware related, we will also need information regarding:
Module configuration and associated ladder files, if any
Module operation and any unusual behavior
Configuration/Debug status information
LED patterns
Details about the serial, Ethernet or fieldbus devices interfaced to the module,
if any.
Note: For technical support calls within the United States, ProSoft’s 24/7 after-hours phone support
is available for urgent plant-down issues. Detailed contact information for all our worldwide
locations is available on the following page.
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 35 of 37
January 24, 2019
Support, Service & Warranty
Asia Pacific
Europe / Middle East / Africa
Regional Office
Phone: +60.3.7941.2888
asiapc@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Bahasa, Chinese, English,
Japanese, Korean
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.ap@prosoft-technology.com
North Asia (China, Hong Kong)
Phone: +86.21.5187.7337
china@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Chinese, English
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.ap@prosoft-technology.com
Southwest Asia (India, Pakistan)
Phone: +91.98.1063.7873
india@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Urdu
Australasia (Australia, New Zealand)
Phone: +60.3.7941.2888
pacific@prosoft-technology.com
Language spoken: English
Southeast Asia (Singapore, Indonesia,
Philippines)
Phone: +60.3.7941.2888
seasia@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: English, Bahasa, Tamil
Northeast & Southeast Asia
(Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia)
Phone: +60.3.7941.2888
neasia@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: English, Chinese, Japanese
Korea
Phone: +60.3.7941.2888
korea@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: English, Korean
Regional Office
Phone: +33.(0)5.34.36.87.20
europe@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: French, English
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.emea@prosoft-technology.com
Middle East & Africa
Phone: +971.4.214.6911
mea@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Hindi, English
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.emea@prosoft-technology.com
North Western Europe (UK, IE, IS, DK, NO, SE)
Phone: +44.(0)7415.864.902
nweurope@prosoft-technology.com
Language spoken: English
Central & Eastern Europe, Finland
Phone: +48.22.250.2546
centraleurope@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Polish, English, Russia & CIS
Phone: +7.499.704.53.46
russia@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Russian, English
Austria, Germany, Switzerland
Phone: +33.(0)5.34.36.87.20
germany@prosoft-technology.com
Language spoken: English, German
BeNeLux, France, North Africa
Phone: +33(0)5.34.36.87.27
france@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: French, English
Mediterranean Countries
Phone: +39.342.8651.595
italy@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Italian, English, Spanish
Page 36 of 37 ProSoft Technology, Inc.
January 24, 2019
Support, Service & Warranty
Latin America
North America
Regional Office
Phone: +52.222.264.1814
support.la@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Spanish, English
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.la@prosoft-technology.com
Brazil
Phone: +55.11.5084.5178
brasil@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Portuguese, English
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.la@prosoft-technology.com
Mexico
Phone: +52.222.264.1814
mexico@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Spanish, English
REGIONAL TECH SUPPORT
support.la@prosoft-technology.com
Andean Countries, Central America &
Caribbean
Phone: +507.6427.48.38
andean@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken: Spanish, English