Description
ProSoft Technology MVI56E-MNETCR – Modbus TCP/IP Client Module for Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix
The MVI56E-MNETCR is an in-chassis Modbus TCP/IP Client (master) communication module built for Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix systems. From my experience, it’s the go-to choice when you need your 1756-based controller to initiate reliable Modbus TCP transactions with drives, power meters, skids, or third‑party PLCs over standard Ethernet. You might notice that the “E” generation adds faster backplane throughput, easier commissioning with Studio 5000 integration, and diagnostics that actually help during startup.
The “CR” variant is typically selected for systems that must remain compatible with ControlLogix redundancy architectures. In many cases, you drop it into a redundant chassis pair and the module participates cleanly in switchover—handy for utilities, pharma, or any 24/7 process line.
Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty period: 365 days
- Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
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Key Features
- Modbus TCP Client (master) functionality – Initiates reads/writes to Modbus TCP servers like drives, RTUs, power meters, and OEM skids.
- Enhanced backplane bandwidth – The MVI56E platform moves data efficiently between the module and the ControlLogix controller, which typically shortens scan times under load.
- Redundancy compatibility – The “CR” variant is designed for use in ControlLogix redundant systems; in most cases it handles controller switchover cleanly.
- Flexible data mapping – User‑configurable mapping of Modbus coils/registers into Logix tags; makes it easier to standardize across different vendors’ devices.
- Diagnostics and status – On‑module LEDs and enhanced diagnostics assist with link status, connection health, and troubleshooting during commissioning.
- Studio 5000 integration – AOI/AOP support streamlines tag creation and monitoring; typically reduces the time spent writing glue logic.
- Industrial Ethernet – 10/100Base‑T RJ45 port(s) for Modbus TCP/IP; supports standard switches and Cat5e/Cat6 cabling.
A plant engineer told us their biggest win was shaving hours off FAT because the module’s diagnostics immediately showed which Modbus registers were live and which devices were misaddressed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | ProSoft Technology MVI56E-MNETCR (for Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix) |
| HS Code | 8517.62 (Data communication apparatus; Modbus TCP/IP communication module) |
| Power Requirements | Backplane-powered from 1756 ControlLogix chassis; no external power supply required |
| Dimensions & Weight | Standard 1756 single-slot module; approx. 140 × 35 × 118 mm; ~0.4–0.5 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60 °C (32 to 140 °F) typical; 5–95% RH non‑condensing |
| Signal I/O Types | Logical Modbus data (coils, discrete inputs, holding/input registers); no direct analog/digital electrical I/O |
| Communication Interfaces | 10/100Base‑T Ethernet (RJ45) for Modbus TCP/IP; 1756 backplane interface to Logix controller |
| Installation Method | In‑chassis 1756 ControlLogix module; occupies one slot in 1756-Ax chassis |
| Controller Compatibility | Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix (RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000); “CR” variant is typically redundancy‑compatible |
Related or Supporting Products
- MVI56E-MNETC – Modbus TCP/IP Client module (non‑redundant variant for standard ControlLogix systems).
- MVI56E-MNETS – Modbus TCP/IP Server module when the Logix system needs to be polled by other masters.
- MVI56E-MCM – Modbus RTU/ASCII module for serial devices (use when field devices are RS‑232/RS‑485).
- MVI69E-MNETC – CompactLogix version if you’re on a 1769/5069 platform instead of 1756.
- 1756-Ax chassis and 1756-PA/PD power supplies – Required ControlLogix infrastructure; size to suit slot count and power budget.
- Industrial Ethernet switches (e.g., Stratix series) – Managed switching is recommended for segmented Modbus TCP networks.
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet & environment – Mount the 1756 chassis in a clean, ventilated enclosure; maintain 0–60 °C and avoid vibration where possible.
- Wiring – Use shielded Cat5e/Cat6 for Ethernet runs; segregate from high‑voltage conductors. Provide proper grounding to limit noise on Modbus networks.
- Addressing & mapping – Plan Modbus register maps early; from my experience, a shared register map document prevents lots of integration churn later.
- Redundancy – If using redundant controllers, verify firmware and module revision compatibility with the installed 1756 redundancy bundle before FAT.
- Firmware & backups – Keep module firmware current and back up configuration to removable media. It seems to be the easiest way to recover after unplanned downtime.
- Routine checks – Periodically review diagnostics (timeouts, retries, link status). Clean connectors and re‑torque network terminations during scheduled maintenance.
- Safety – Follow ESD practices. De‑energize the chassis before inserting or removing modules unless your procedure specifically supports hot‑swap for the slot.
Quality & Certifications
- CE and cULus listed; FCC/ICES EMC compliance; typically suitable for Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations (check your exact catalog revision).
- RoHS compliant materials.
- Manufacturer’s standard warranty is typically multi‑year; our supply includes a 365‑day warranty as stated above.
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