Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | ProSoft MVI56-BAS |
| Manufacturer | ProSoft Technology (a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner) |
| Product category | Industrial-Building Integration Module (Allen-Bradley ControlLogix to BAS Protocol Conversion) |
| Communication Protocols | Primary: BACnet MS/TP (ANSI/ASHRAE 135), Modbus RTU (RS-485); Supports BACnet objects: Analog Input/Output, Digital Input/Output, Trend Log, Schedule; Modbus role: Master/Slave |
| Hardware Integration | Allen-Bradley ControlLogix backplane compatible (1756 chassis); 2x isolated RS-485 ports (for BACnet MS/TP/Modbus RTU); Port isolation: 250 Vrms (channel-to-channel, channel-to-backplane) |
| Data Handling | Maximum BACnet MS/TP nodes: 32 per port; Modbus RTU nodes: 32 per port (master mode), unlimited (slave mode); BACnet data points: Up to 2048 (input + output); Modbus registers: 16,384 (input) + 16,384 (output); Data mapping: Drag-and-drop via ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v6.1+ |
| Real-Time Performance | BACnet MS/TP baud rate: 9600–115200 bps (configurable); Modbus RTU baud rate: 1200–115200 bps; Polling rate: 10 ms–10 s (per device, configurable); Latency: < 50 ms (ControlLogix to BAS device) |
| Physical Dimensions | ControlLogix 1756 chassis-compatible (1-slot width); 130 mm (height) × 32 mm (width) × 190 mm (depth); Weight: ~500 g; Operating temperature: 0 °C to +60 °C; Storage temperature: -40 °C to +85 °C |
| Environmental Requirements | Relative humidity: 5%–95% (non-condensing); Vibration resistance: 5 g (10 Hz–500 Hz, IEC 60068-2-6); Shock resistance: 30 g (11 ms half-sine, IEC 60068-2-27); Altitude: Up to 2000 m (derated above 1000 m) |
| Power Requirements | Power source: ControlLogix backplane (5 VDC, 1.5 A max); No external power needed; Backplane current consumption: < 1 A (operating mode); Overcurrent protection: Built-in (backplane-fused) |
| Safety & Compliance | CE (EN 61010-1, EN 61326-1); UL 61010-1 (USA/Canada); IEC 61010-1; RoHS 2 compliant (2011/65/EU); EMC compliance: EN 61000-6-2 (industrial immunity), EN 61000-6-3 (emissions); BACnet certification: BTL (BACnet Testing Laboratories) Certified |
| Compatibility | Allen-Bradley systems: ControlLogix (1756-L6x/L7x), CompactLogix 5380 (with 1756 chassis adapter); BAS devices: Trane HVAC controllers, Johnson Controls VAV boxes, Siemens lighting panels, Honeywell security sensors; Configuration software: ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v6.1+ (free download) |
| Additional Features | BACnet trend logging (local storage: 10,000 events); Modbus register mapping to BACnet objects; Diagnostic LEDs (power, backplane communication, BACnet/Modbus link); Firmware update via ControlLogix backplane; Web-based monitoring (HTTP/HTTPS) |
PROSOFT MVI56-BAS
Product introduction
The ProSoft MVI56-BAS is a specialized BAS (Building Automation System) communication module designed for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs, developed by ProSoft Technology (a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner). It solves a critical integration challenge: unifying industrial process control (via ControlLogix) with building infrastructure management (HVAC, lighting, security) using industry-standard protocols like BACnet MS/TP and Modbus RTU. Unlike generic gateway solutions that require external hardware, the ProSoft MVI56-BAS plugs directly into the ControlLogix backplane, eliminating extra wiring and reducing latency—making it ideal for facilities where industrial processes and building systems share dependencies (e.g., data centers, manufacturing plants).
As a “unified control bridge,” the ProSoft MVI56-BAS enables seamless data flow between ControlLogix and BAS devices. For example, a semiconductor manufacturing plant uses the ProSoft MVI56-BAS to connect its ControlLogix 1756-L7x PLC (controlling cleanroom processes) to Trane HVAC controllers and Siemens lighting panels: the module maps BACnet data (e.g., cleanroom temperature, lighting status) to ControlLogix tags, allowing the PLC to adjust HVAC airflow based on production demand. This integration cuts energy costs by 18% and eliminates manual coordination between industrial and building teams.
Whether deployed in data centers (temperature-sensitive server rooms) or large factories (zone-based HVAC control), the ProSoft MVI56-BAS combines industrial durability with building automation expertise. Its BTL certification and backplane integration ensure reliable performance, making it indispensable for teams needing to unify control of industrial and building systems.
Core advantages and technical highlights
BACnet BTL Certification for Interoperability: The ProSoft MVI56-BAS is BTL (BACnet Testing Laboratories) certified, ensuring seamless compatibility with all BACnet-compliant devices—eliminating the “protocol mismatch” issues common with non-certified modules. A commercial office tower uses the ProSoft MVI56-BAS to connect its ControlLogix PLC to 40 Johnson Controls VAV (Variable Air Volume) boxes: the BACnet certification guarantees plug-and-play operation, avoiding costly custom driver development (a $20k expense) and ensuring the VAV boxes respond to ControlLogix commands within 50 ms. This interoperability is critical for facilities relying on multi-vendor BAS equipment.
ControlLogix Backplane Integration for Low Latency: Unlike external gateways that add 100+ ms latency, the ProSoft MVI56-BAS plugs directly into the ControlLogix backplane, reducing data transfer latency to <50 ms. A data center uses the module to link its ControlLogix PLC (monitoring server load) to Trane CRAC (Computer Room Air Conditioning) units: the low latency ensures the PLC adjusts CRAC fan speed within seconds of server load spikes, maintaining server inlet temperatures at ±0.5 °C—critical for preventing hardware overheating. This speed also eliminates the need for separate BAS controllers, cutting hardware costs by 30%.
Dual-Protocol Support (BACnet MS/TP + Modbus RTU): The ProSoft MVI56-BAS supports both BACnet MS/TP (for building systems) and Modbus RTU (for legacy BAS devices), eliminating the need for multiple modules. A food processing plant uses the module to connect its ControlLogix PLC to two systems: BACnet-based Honeywell security sensors (access control) and Modbus-based Siemens lighting panels. The ProSoft MVI56-BAS maps both protocols to ControlLogix tags, allowing the PLC to trigger lighting shutdowns if security breaches are detected. This dual-protocol support reduces rack space usage by 50% (one module vs. two) and simplifies configuration via a single PCB software interface.
Local BACnet Trend Logging for Compliance: The ProSoft MVI56-BAS includes local trend logging (10,000 events) for BACnet data, eliminating the need for external data loggers. A pharmaceutical plant uses the module to log cleanroom temperature and humidity data (required for FDA compliance): the local storage ensures data is preserved even if the ControlLogix backplane temporarily loses communication, avoiding compliance violations that could result in $100k fines. The module also exports logs to CSV via its web interface, simplifying audit reporting and cutting administrative time by 25%.
Typical application scenarios
In data centers, a large colocation facility uses the ProSoft MVI56-BAS to connect its ControlLogix 1756-L6x PLC (monitoring server power usage) to 60 Trane CRAC units (via BACnet MS/TP) and 30 APC UPS systems (via Modbus RTU). The module maps CRAC temperature data and UPS battery status to ControlLogix tags: when server power usage exceeds 80% of capacity, the PLC signals the CRAC units to increase airflow—maintaining server inlet temperatures at 22 °C. During a brief backplane communication glitch, the ProSoft MVI56-BAS’s local trend logging preserves temperature data, ensuring the facility meets ISO 14644-1 cleanroom standards. This integration reduces energy costs by 22% and avoids unplanned server downtime.
In manufacturing, an automotive assembly plant uses the ProSoft MVI56-BAS to link its ControlLogix PLC (controlling production lines) to 25 Johnson Controls VAV boxes (HVAC) and 15 Siemens lighting panels. The module maps BACnet data (e.g., line 1 temperature, zone lighting status) to ControlLogix tags: when the PLC detects line 1 is idle, it signals the VAV box to reduce airflow and the lighting panel to dim—cutting zone energy use by 40%. The ProSoft MVI56-BAS’s web interface also allows building teams to monitor production-related HVAC adjustments, eliminating inter-departmental communication gaps and reducing maintenance requests by 30%.
PROSOFT MVI56-BAS
Related model recommendations
ProSoft MVI56E-BAS: Ethernet-enabled variant of ProSoft MVI56-BAS—adds BACnet IP support for networked BAS devices (e.g., cloud-based HVAC management), ideal for large facilities.
Allen-Bradley 1756-L7x: ControlLogix PLC compatible with ProSoft MVI56-BAS—high-performance processor for large-scale industrial-building integration, supports backplane module communication.
Trane Tracer SC: BACnet MS/TP HVAC controller paired with ProSoft MVI56-BAS—controls VAV boxes and CRAC units, ideal for temperature-sensitive environments (data centers, cleanrooms).
ProSoft PCB Software v6.1+: Configuration tool for ProSoft MVI56-BAS—free, includes BACnet object mapping and Modbus register templates, simplifies module setup.
Johnson Controls Metasys MS/TP: BACnet VAV box controller compatible with ProSoft MVI56-BAS—adjusts airflow based on ControlLogix commands, used in zone-based HVAC systems.
Belden 9841: RS-485 cable for ProSoft MVI56-BAS—twisted-pair, shielded, ideal for BACnet MS/TP/Modbus RTU connections in noisy industrial environments.
ProSoft MVI56-MCM: Modbus master/slave module for ControlLogix—complements ProSoft MVI56-BAS in facilities with large Modbus RTU BAS fleets (e.g., lighting panels).
Honeywell ECC-500: BACnet security controller compatible with ProSoft MVI56-BAS—sends access control data to ControlLogix, used in industrial facilities with restricted zones.
Siemens Desigo PX: BACnet building automation system compatible with ProSoft MVI56-BAS—unifies HVAC, lighting, and security data for ControlLogix integration in large commercial buildings.
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation: Before installing ProSoft MVI56-BAS, confirm the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix chassis (1756) has an empty slot and is powered off. Wear ESD wristbands to protect the module and backplane. Align the ProSoft MVI56-BAS with the chassis guides and firmly seat it into the empty slot (apply even pressure to avoid bent pins). Power on the ControlLogix PLC and verify the module’s power LED illuminates green (indicates backplane communication). Connect BAS devices: Use Belden 9841 RS-485 cable to link Port 1 (BACnet MS/TP) to HVAC/lighting devices and Port 2 (Modbus RTU) to legacy BAS equipment—ensure proper polarity (A/B terminals) to avoid communication errors.
Maintenance suggestions: Inspect ProSoft MVI56-BAS monthly: Check LEDs (green = power/backplane, blue = BACnet link, amber = Modbus link, red = fault); Clean the module’s chassis connector with compressed air (avoid liquids) to remove dust buildup. For troubleshooting, use the web interface (default IP: 192.168.1.220) to monitor BACnet/Modbus data flow and trend logs—if communication fails, verify RS-485 wiring and device baud rates (match module settings). Update firmware quarterly via the ControlLogix backplane (download from ProSoft’s website). Store spare modules in a dry, 0 °C to +50 °C environment—avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or corrosive gases (e.g., cleaning chemicals in food plants).
Service and guarantee commitment
ProSoft Technology provides a 3-year standard warranty for ProSoft MVI56-BAS, covering defects in materials, workmanship, BACnet compliance, and backplane integration. For critical applications (data centers, pharmaceutical plants), the ProSoft Premium BAS Support Plan extends coverage to 5 years, including annual on-site BACnet interoperability testing, 24/7 technical support (1-hour response time for HVAC/industrial integration issues), and expedited replacement (48-hour delivery of a loaner module during repairs).
ProSoft’s global technical team (specialized in industrial-building integration) offers dedicated support for ProSoft MVI56-BAS—assisting with BACnet object mapping, Modbus register configuration, and ControlLogix tag integration. Customers gain free access to resources: application notes on data center HVAC control, PCB software tutorials, and a user community for sharing BAS-industrial integration best practices. For out-of-warranty repairs, ProSoft’s BAS Module Service restores the ProSoft MVI56-BAS to factory specs (tests BACnet compliance, verifies backplane communication) and provides a 6-month warranty. This commitment reflects ProSoft’s confidence in the module’s durability and dedication to helping users unify industrial and building automation systems.
