Description
The ProSoft PLX31-MBTCP-MBS4, also cataloged as the PLX31-MBTCP-MBS4 Modbus TCP/IP to Modbus Serial 4 Port Gateway, operates as a dedicated hardware component for bidirectional protocol conversion and signal bridging within Modbus TCP/IP networks and RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 serial field sub-networks.
Suffix Breakdown & Model Matrix
| Model Code Segment | Value | Hardware/Protocol Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Series | PLX31 | Compact Standalone Industrial Standalone Gateway Platform |
| Primary Network | MBTCP | Modbus TCP/IP Client/Server Ethernet Protocol Interface |
| Secondary Network | MBS4 | Modbus Serial (RS-232/422/485) Master/Slave Interface (4 Channels) |
Hardware Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | PLX31-MBTCP-MBS4 |
| Brand | ProSoft Technology |
| Origin | USA |
| Weight | 0.46 lbs |
| Dimensions | 13.67 x 5.05 x 11.13 cm |
| Operating Temp | -25 to 70 deg C (-13 to 158 deg F) |
| Storage Temp | -40 to 80 deg C (-40 to 176 deg F) |
| Relative Humidity | 5% to 95% RH non-condensing |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC nominal (10 to 36 VDC range) |
| Power Consumption | 24 VDC @ 300 mA nominal, 10 to 36 VDC @ 610 mA maximum |
| Ethernet Port | 10/100 Mbit half-duplex, RJ45 connector |
| Ethernet Isolation | 1500 Vrms at 50 to 60 Hz for 60 seconds (IEC 60950: 1991) |
| Serial Ports | 4 isolated serial channels |
| Serial Isolation | 2500 Vrms signal isolation per UL 1577 (SiliconLabs Si844x RF technology) |
| Shock Ratings | IEC 60068-2-27; 15G @ 11ms (Operational), 30G @ 18ms (Non-Operational) |
| Vibration Ratings | IEC 60068-2-6; 5G @ 10 to 150 Hz |
| LED Diagnostic Indicators | CFG, ERR, PWR, FLT, NS, MS, Link/Act, Serial RX/TX |
Industrial Network Isolation & Protocol Conversion Latencies
The PLX31-MBTCP-MBS4 incorporates high-speed RF-based digital galvantic isolation circuits across all four serial ports, utilizing SiliconLabs Si844x isolation components to achieve 2500 Vrms port-to-port and channel-to-ground dielectric protection. This isolation architecture prevents ground loop currents and transient voltage spikes from propagating between field-mounted Modbus serial devices and the upstream Modbus TCP/IP Ethernet backbone. Protocol conversion latencies are minimized through an internal optimized memory map, enabling high-throughput data transfer between Ethernet buffers and serial UART transceivers without degrading deterministic poll cycles or causing packet collisions during multi-master polling operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the gateway handle high-volume broadcast traffic on the Ethernet interface?
A: The physical Ethernet controller implements hardware-level Broadcast Storm Resiliency. It restricts incoming Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) frame processing to a maximum rate of 5000 frames-per-second for durations up to 5 minutes, ensuring internal CPU resources remain dedicated to protocol execution during network flooding events.
Q: What physical isolation mechanism is deployed on the serial communication channels?
A: Each of the four serial ports utilizes SiliconLabs Si844x series digital isolators based on RF (Radio Frequency) modulation technology. This yields a 2500 Vrms signal isolation rating per UL 1577 between individual serial channels and internal logic circuits.
Field Installation Guidelines
- DIN-Rail Mounting & Enclosure Clearance: Secure the module on a standard 35 mm DIN rail in an vertical position inside an IP54 or higher industrial enclosure. Maintain a minimum top and bottom thermal clearance of 50 mm to facilitate natural convection cooling across the temperature operating range of -25 to 70 deg C.
- Grounding & Shielding Execution: Connect the designated GND terminal on the power connector directly to the nearest low-impedance protective earth (PE) busbar using a short 14 AWG conductor. Connect serial communications cable shields strictly at one ground point to avoid circulating ground loop currents.
- Power Supply & Wiring Limits: Wire the primary 24 VDC supply using copper conductors rated for at least 85 deg C. Ensure the power source output capacity accommodates the maximum inrush and steady-state current draw of 610 mA at the lower 10 VDC input threshold.
Features
We welcome bulk orders and have a minimum order quantity of just one unit.
Upon request, we can provide all necessary documentation, including Certificates of Origin/Conformance and other required export documents.
For items in stock, we aim to deliver within 1-3 days after payment confirmation. Items with specified lead times will be delivered according to the quoted schedule.
We accept 100% T/T (Telegraphic Transfer) payment before shipping. For items with lead times, a 30% deposit is required upfront, with the remaining 70% due before shipment. For RMB transfers, please contact us if you have an agent in China.
We offer a standard one-year warranty on all new and original items. If you require an extended warranty, please contact us for additional cost details.
Your satisfaction is important to us. If you need to return an item, it must be done within 30 days of the order date. The product must be unused, unopened, and in its original packaging with all accessories included. Refunds are processed within 5-7 business days after we receive the returned item. Please note that shipping and related charges are non-refundable.