ProSoft PLX32-EIP-MBTCP – EtherNet/IP to Modbus TCP Gateway for PLC-to-Device Bridging

The ProSoft PLX32-EIP-MBTCP is a compact industrial gateway designed to bridge EtherNet/IP controllers with Modbus TCP equipment. From my experience, it’s a straightforward way to let a ControlLogix or CompactLogix talk to Modbus TCP drives, meters, and skids without adding in-rack cards or rewriting a bunch of logic. You might notice that it behaves like a native device on both sides—an EtherNet/IP Adapter/Scanner and a Modbus TCP Client/Server—so mixed vendor networks typically fall into place quickly.

Typical use cases include packaging lines where AB PLCs need register access to Modbus TCP VFDs, water/wastewater stations pulling totals from flow computers, and brownfield plants standardizing remote I/O over one Ethernet backbone. One thing I appreciate is the web-based diagnostics; it seems to save time during commissioning and when you’re hunting intermittent comms issues.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• – Warranty period: 365 days from delivery

• – Delivery time: 1 week for in-stock; 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 protocol bridge – Converts between EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP without external PCs or middleware.
• Dual-role on each side – Operates as EtherNet/IP Adapter/Scanner and Modbus TCP Client/Server for flexible topologies.
• 10/100 Mbps Ethernet – Two RJ45 ports with auto-negotiation for simple drop-in to existing networks.
• Web-based configuration & diagnostics – View status, communications counters, and logs from any browser.
• Deterministic data mapping – Organized tag/register mapping helps maintain predictable scan times in most cases.
• Compact, DIN-rail form factor – Easy to fit in crowded MCC panels and OEM enclosures.
• Industrial temperature range – Built for continuous operation in typical plant environments.
• Integration aids – EDS/AOI files and example docs typically shorten commissioning time.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• ProSoft PLX32-EIP-MBS – EtherNet/IP to Modbus Serial (RS-232/485) if your Modbus devices are not TCP.
• ProSoft PLX32-MBTCP-PND – Modbus TCP to PROFINET Device bridge for Siemens-centric networks.
• ProSoft MVI56E-MNET – In-rack Modbus TCP module for ControlLogix if you prefer chassis-based integration.
• 24 VDC DIN-rail power supply – Industrial PSU (e.g., 60 W) for clean, regulated input power.
• Managed industrial Ethernet switch – For VLANs, IGMP snooping, and ring redundancy where uptime matters.

Installation & Maintenance

• Panel & environment – Mount on DIN-rail inside a ventilated cabinet; allow a few centimeters of clearance for airflow and wiring. Keep away from high‑EMI sources and VFD output cables.
• Power & grounding – Use a stable 24 VDC supply; connect protective earth. In many cases, a small UPS or redundant PSU avoids nuisance trips.
• Networking – Use shielded Cat5e/Cat6 cables; enable IGMP snooping on switches for EtherNet/IP traffic; segregate control and corporate traffic via VLANs when possible.
• Configuration – Map tags/registers with clear comments; start with smaller scan lists and increment as needed to keep cycle times predictable.
• Safety & handling – De-energize before wiring; observe ESD precautions. Verify polarity on DC input; double-check IP settings before going live.
• Routine maintenance – Periodically back up the configuration, review event logs, and check link quality. Firmware updates, when available, typically improve stability and diagnostics.

Quality & Certifications

• CE, UL/cUL, FCC, and RoHS compliance are typically applicable for this series.
• Manufacturer’s hardware warranty: ProSoft standard policy (commonly 1 year on hardware).
• Our warranty coverage: 365 days replacement/repair support as stated above.

From my experience, teams see the fastest results when they stage the PLX32-EIP-MBTCP on a bench with one PLC and one Modbus device first. A customer in food & beverage told us the live switchover took under an hour because the mapping and test steps were done ahead of time—no surprises on the plant floor.