Description
ProSoft MVI46-MBP Modbus Plus Communication Module for Allen‑Bradley SLC 500
The ProSoft MVI46-MBP is a purpose-built Modbus Plus (MB+) communication module for the Allen‑Bradley SLC 500 (1746) platform. From my experience, it’s the cleanest way to connect SLC processors to Schneider/Modicon Modbus Plus devices without external gateways. You might notice that commissioning is straightforward: map your data, drop a single slot into the 1746 chassis, and let the backplane do the heavy lifting. It typically suits brownfield sites where MB+ is still mission‑critical and downtime windows are tight.
Typical applications include bridging legacy Modicon PLCs, HMIs, and drives to SLC-based control, consolidating process data for SCADA, or replacing aging SA85/bridges with an in‑rack approach. One thing I appreciate is the deterministic behavior of MB+ at the network level, which pairs nicely with SLC’s predictable scan—handy in batching, utilities, and continuous process lines.
Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty period: 365 days
- Delivery time: 1 week for in-stock items; no more than one month at the latest
- Payment: 50% advance payment, full payment prior to delivery
- Express delivery: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- Native SLC 500 integration – Installs as a single 1746 chassis module; data is exchanged with the SLC processor over the backplane.
- Modbus Plus connectivity – Provides an MB+ network interface to connect with Schneider/Modicon devices on a 1 Mbps token‑passing network.
- Master and/or Slave operation – Supports typical MB+ messaging to poll devices or respond, which simplifies mixed-vendor systems.
- Configurable data mapping – Flexible register/block mapping to move the exact tags you need without re‑engineering your logic.
- Diagnostics and status – Front‑panel LEDs and onboard diagnostics help pinpoint cabling, addressing, or traffic issues quickly.
- ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) – Configuration via ProSoft’s tool; typically deployed through the module’s configuration port for fast commissioning.
- Rugged design – Industrial operating range and a form factor that matches standard 1746 modules, so it fits cleanly in existing cabinets.
- Field‑proven in legacy modernization – In many cases it’s used to keep MB+ assets online while you transition the control platform at your own pace.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | ProSoft Technology MVI46-MBP |
| HS Code | 8538.90 (Parts suitable for use with apparatus of heading 8537 – PLC systems) |
| Power Requirements | 5 VDC supplied by Allen‑Bradley 1746 backplane (SLC 500 chassis) |
| Dimensions & Weight | Single‑slot 1746 form factor; comparable footprint to standard SLC I/O modules |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60 °C (32 to 140 °F) typical industrial rating |
| Signal Input/Output Types | Modbus Plus network data (no discrete/analog I/O); backplane data exchange with SLC CPU |
| Communication Interfaces | Modbus Plus (MB+) network port, 1 Mbps; 1746 backplane interface to SLC processor; configuration via ProSoft Configuration Builder |
| Installation Method | Installs in an Allen‑Bradley 1746 chassis slot; wiring to MB+ shielded twisted‑pair network |
Related or Supporting Products
- MVI46-MCM – Modbus RTU/ASCII module for SLC 500; choose this if your field devices speak Modbus serial rather than Modbus Plus.
- MVI46-MNET – Modbus TCP/IP for SLC 500; a better fit when your devices are on Ethernet.
- MVI56-MBP – Similar MB+ functionality for Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix (1756) systems.
- MVI69-MBP – CompactLogix (1769) form‑factor Modbus Plus module for smaller Logix platforms.
- 1746-Ax / 1746-Px – SLC 500 chassis and power supplies commonly paired with MVI46 modules.
- Modbus Plus cable and terminators – Use shielded twisted‑pair MB+ cable and proper termination at segment ends for reliable operation.
From a maintenance engineer at a water treatment plant: “We dropped the MVI46-MBP into an existing 1746 rack and brought a Modicon controller onto the SLC network in one shift. Diagnostics made it easier than our old bridge setup.”
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet & environment – Install in a clean, dry control cabinet with adequate ventilation; keep ambient within the industrial rating and avoid high‑noise power cables in parallel runs.
- Chassis & slotting – Mount in an Allen‑Bradley 1746 chassis; ensure the chassis and power supply are properly grounded.
- MB+ wiring – Use approved Modbus Plus shielded twisted‑pair cable; maintain proper shielding and terminate the segment ends according to MB+ guidelines.
- Addressing & topology – Assign unique node addresses on the MB+ network; star/segment use should follow MB+ rules to avoid reflections and retries.
- Configuration – Configure with ProSoft Configuration Builder. It appears that keeping data maps lean (only what you need) typically improves scan stability.
- Safety – De‑energize the chassis before insertion/removal. Follow ESD handling practices when servicing.
- Routine checks – Inspect connectors and shields quarterly; back up configuration files; schedule firmware updates when ProSoft releases stability improvements.
- Troubleshooting tip – If you see elevated retry counts, check terminations first, then shielding/grounding, and finally node address conflicts.
Quality & Certifications
- Certifications: typically CE and UL/cUL; RoHS compliance in most cases.
- Hazardous locations: many revisions carry industrial environmental ratings suitable for control cabinets.
- Manufacturer’s warranty: ProSoft standard warranty is typically 1 year; our coverage is 365 days on supply.
- Traceability: units supplied from controlled channels with verifiable origin and test status.
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