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Modbus Protocol

Table of Contents

  1. Overview
  2. Quick Link
  3. Key Features
  4. Supported Functions
  5. Communication Methods
  6. Data Types
  7. Error Codes

Overview

Modbus is a widely used communication protocol in industrial automation. It operates on a master-slave architecture and supports data exchange between various industrial equipment.

Related Protocols: SECS/GEM | EtherNet/IP | OPC UA | RTSP

Key Features

  • Simplicity: Simple and easy-to-understand protocol structure
  • Openness: Open standard supported by various vendors
  • Reliability: Error detection and recovery capabilities
  • Scalability: Usable in various network environments

Supported Functions

FunctionDescription
Read CoilsRead digital output status
Read Discrete InputsRead digital input status
Read Holding RegistersRead holding registers
Read Input RegistersRead input registers
Write Single CoilWrite single coil
Write Single RegisterWrite single register
Write Multiple CoilsWrite multiple coils
Write Multiple RegistersWrite multiple registers

Communication Methods

MethodDescriptionCharacteristics
Modbus RTUSerial communicationBinary encoding, high efficiency
Modbus ASCIISerial communicationASCII encoding, easy debugging
Modbus TCPEthernet communicationTCP/IP based, high-speed communication

Data Types

TypeDescriptionRange
Coil1-bit read/write0 or 1
Discrete Input1-bit read-only0 or 1
Holding Register16-bit read/write0-65535
Input Register16-bit read-only0-65535

Error Codes

CodeDescription
01Illegal Function
02Illegal Data Address
03Illegal Data Value
04Slave Device Failure
05Acknowledge
06Slave Device Busy
08Memory Parity Error
0AGateway Path Unavailable
0BGateway Target Device Failed to Respond