Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC |
| Manufacturer | ProSoft Technology (a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner) |
| Product category | Industrial Ethernet Communication Module (Allen-Bradley ControlLogix to Modbus TCP/Ethernet/IP Protocol Conversion) |
| Communication Protocols | Primary: Ethernet/IP (producer/consumer, explicit messaging); Modbus TCP (client/server); Supports Modbus TCP function codes 1–6, 15, 16; Ethernet/IP device profile: Class 1/3 |
| Hardware Integration | Allen-Bradley ControlLogix backplane compatible (1756 chassis, 1-slot width); 2x 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports (RJ45, auto-sensing); Port isolation: 250 Vrms (channel-to-channel, channel-to-backplane) |
| Data Handling | Maximum Modbus TCP clients: 32; Modbus TCP servers: 8; Ethernet/IP produced/consumed tags: Up to 4096 bytes (input) + 4096 bytes (output); Modbus registers: 65,536 (input) + 65,536 (output); Data mapping: Drag-and-drop via ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v6.2+ |
| Real-Time Performance | Ethernet/IP cycle time: Down to 1 ms (scheduled); Modbus TCP response time: < 10 ms (per request); Throughput: Up to 1000 Modbus TCP requests/second; Latency: < 20 ms (ControlLogix to Modbus TCP device) |
| Physical Dimensions | ControlLogix 1756 chassis-compatible; 130 mm (height) × 32 mm (width) × 190 mm (depth); Weight: ~550 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, 2.0 A max); No external power needed; Backplane current consumption: < 1.2 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); Ethernet/IP certification: ODVA Certified |
| Compatibility | Allen-Bradley systems: ControlLogix (1756-L6x/L7x), CompactLogix 5380 (with 1756 chassis adapter); Modbus TCP devices: Siemens S7-1200, Schneider M340, EPRO MMS6823, Omron NJ-series; Configuration software: ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v6.2+ (free download) |
| Additional Features | Ethernet/IP network redundancy (DLR, MRP); Modbus TCP request queuing; Diagnostic LEDs (power, backplane, Ethernet link, data transfer); Web-based monitoring (HTTP/HTTPS); Firmware update via Ethernet/backplane; Cybersecurity: Password protection, HTTPS encryption |
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Product introduction
The ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC is a high-performance Ethernet/IP-to-Modbus TCP communication module designed for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs, developed by ProSoft Technology (a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner). It addresses a critical need in modern industrial networks: enabling seamless, high-speed data exchange between ControlLogix systems (using Ethernet/IP) and Modbus TCP-enabled devices (e.g., third-party VFDs, remote sensors, SCADA servers). Unlike external gateways that introduce latency or require extra wiring, the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC plugs directly into the ControlLogix backplane, leveraging the PLC’s native architecture to deliver sub-20 ms latency—making it ideal for time-critical applications like assembly lines, power distribution, and water treatment plants.
As a “high-speed protocol bridge,” the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC unlocks interoperability across multi-vendor networks. For example, a water treatment plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC to connect its ControlLogix 1756-L7x PLC (controlling pump stations) to 24 Siemens S7-1200 PLCs (monitoring remote flow meters via Modbus TCP): the module maps Modbus TCP flow data to Ethernet/IP produced tags, allowing the ControlLogix PLC to adjust pump speeds in real time based on water demand. This integration eliminates manual data entry, reduces operational errors by 40%, and ensures compliance with environmental monitoring regulations.
Whether deployed in large manufacturing facilities (with distributed Modbus TCP devices) or critical infrastructure (needing network redundancy), the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC combines industrial ruggedness with enterprise-grade connectivity. Its ODVA certification and dual Ethernet ports ensure reliable performance, making it indispensable for teams needing to unify ControlLogix systems with Modbus TCP ecosystems.
Core advantages and technical highlights
ODVA Certification for Ethernet/IP Interoperability: The ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC is ODVA-certified for Ethernet/IP, guaranteeing seamless compatibility with all Ethernet/IP-compliant devices—eliminating the “protocol conflicts” common with non-certified modules. A automotive assembly plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC to connect its ControlLogix PLC to 30 Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 755 VFDs (via Ethernet/IP) and 15 Schneider M340 PLCs (via Modbus TCP): the ODVA certification ensures the VFDs respond to ControlLogix commands within 1 ms, avoiding production delays caused by communication lags. This interoperability is critical for facilities relying on Allen-Bradley’s Ethernet/IP ecosystem while integrating third-party Modbus TCP equipment.
Dual-Gigabit Ethernet Ports for Network Redundancy: Unlike single-port modules, the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC features two 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports, supporting DLR (Device Level Ring) and MRP (Media Redundancy Protocol) for network redundancy. A power distribution plant uses the module (with DLR) to connect its ControlLogix PLC to 18 Modbus TCP-enabled switchgear controllers: during a network cable fault, the DLR redundancy switches to the backup port in <5 ms, avoiding a 2-hour outage that would have disrupted power supply to 50,000 households. This redundancy meets the plant’s SIL 2 safety requirements and 99.999% uptime goal.
High-Speed Modbus TCP Throughput: The ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC handles up to 1000 Modbus TCP requests per second—3x faster than entry-level modules—making it ideal for large-scale networks with dozens of Modbus TCP devices. A beverage bottling plant uses the module to poll 40 Modbus TCP sensors (monitoring bottle fill levels) every 10 ms: the high throughput ensures the ControlLogix PLC receives real-time data, enabling it to adjust fill valves within 20 ms of detecting deviations. This speed reduces product waste by 15% and increases production line efficiency by 25%.
ControlLogix Backplane Integration for Low Latency: By plugging directly into the ControlLogix backplane, the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC minimizes data transfer latency to <20 ms—far lower than external gateways (100+ ms). A semiconductor plant uses the module to connect its ControlLogix PLC to a Modbus TCP-based wafer inspection system: the low latency ensures inspection data reaches the PLC in time to reject defective wafers before they enter the next production stage, cutting defect rates by 30%. Backplane integration also eliminates extra wiring, reducing installation time by 40% compared to external gateways.
Typical application scenarios
In manufacturing, a consumer electronics plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC to connect its ControlLogix 1756-L6x PLC (controlling 10 assembly lines) to 50 Modbus TCP-enabled Omron NJ-series PLCs (managing robotic workcells) and 20 Allen-Bradley PanelView HMIs (via Ethernet/IP). The module maps robotic workcell status data (from Omron PLCs) to Ethernet/IP consumed tags, allowing the ControlLogix PLC to synchronize assembly line operations with robotic movements. During a peak production run, one Ethernet cable is accidentally disconnected—the module’s DLR redundancy switches to the backup port in 3 ms, avoiding a 1-hour outage that would have lost 10,000 units (valued at $50k).
In energy, a solar farm uses the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC to connect its ControlLogix PLC (managing inverter clusters) to 60 Modbus TCP-enabled solar inverters and a cloud-based SCADA system. The module sends inverter output data (via Modbus TCP) to the ControlLogix PLC and forwards aggregated performance data (via Ethernet/IP) to the SCADA system: the PLC uses the data to optimize inverter alignment, increasing energy yield by 8%. The module’s web interface also allows remote monitoring of inverter status, reducing on-site maintenance visits by 60% and lowering operational costs.
PROSOFT MVI56E-MNETC
Related model recommendations
ProSoft MVI56-MNET: Non-Ethernet/IP variant of ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—focused on Modbus RTU/TCP for legacy ControlLogix systems, ideal for facilities with no Ethernet/IP devices.
Allen-Bradley 1756-L7x: ControlLogix PLC optimized for ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—high-performance processor for large-scale Ethernet/IP/Modbus TCP integration, supports backplane module communication.
Siemens S7-1200 CPU 1214C: Modbus TCP device compatible with ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—used for remote I/O monitoring in distributed industrial networks (e.g., water treatment plants).
ProSoft PCB Software v6.2+: Configuration tool for ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—free, includes Ethernet/IP tag mapping and Modbus TCP request queuing setup, simplifies module programming.
Allen-Bradley 1756-EN2TP: Ethernet/IP bridge module for ControlLogix—paired with ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC to extend Ethernet/IP reach in large facilities (e.g., manufacturing plants).
Belden 1694A: Cat6 Ethernet cable for ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—shielded, 1000 Mbps, ideal for high-speed Ethernet/IP/Modbus TCP connections in noisy industrial environments.
ProSoft MVI56E-BAS: BAS-focused sibling of ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—adds BACnet IP support for industrial-building integration, complementary for facilities with HVAC/lighting systems.
Schneider M340 PLC: Modbus TCP controller compatible with ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—used for machine-level control in multi-vendor networks (e.g., automotive assembly).
Honeywell Experion PKS: SCADA system compatible with ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—receives Ethernet/IP data from ControlLogix, ideal for enterprise-grade monitoring (e.g., power plants).
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation: Before installing ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC, 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 MVI56E-MNETC with the chassis guides and firmly seat it into the 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 Ethernet devices: Use Belden 1694A Cat6 cable to link Port 1 (Ethernet/IP) to ControlLogix-compatible devices (e.g., VFDs, HMIs) and Port 2 (Modbus TCP) to third-party devices—configure IP addresses via the module’s web interface (default IP: 192.168.1.230) to match the network subnet.
Maintenance suggestions: Inspect ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC monthly: Check LEDs (green = power/backplane, blue = Ethernet link, amber = data transfer, red = fault); Clean the Ethernet ports with compressed air (avoid liquids) to remove dust. For troubleshooting, use the web interface to monitor Modbus TCP request logs and Ethernet/IP tag status—if communication fails, verify IP settings and cable continuity (use a cable tester). Update firmware quarterly via Ethernet (download from ProSoft’s website) to ensure compatibility with new Modbus TCP devices. Store spare modules in a dry, 0 °C to +50 °C environment—avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or corrosive gases (e.g., sulfur in wastewater plants).
Service and guarantee commitment
ProSoft Technology provides a 3-year standard warranty for ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC, covering defects in materials, workmanship, ODVA certification compliance, and backplane integration. For critical applications (power plants, semiconductor manufacturing), the ProSoft Premium Ethernet Support Plan extends coverage to 5 years, including annual on-site network redundancy testing, 24/7 technical support (1-hour response time for communication outages), and expedited replacement (48-hour delivery of a loaner module during repairs).
ProSoft’s global technical team (specialized in Ethernet/IP and Modbus TCP integration) offers dedicated support for ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC—assisting with DLR/MRP setup, tag mapping, and multi-vendor device troubleshooting. Customers gain free access to resources: application notes on solar farm SCADA integration, PCB software tutorials, and a user community for sharing Ethernet/IP best practices. For out-of-warranty repairs, ProSoft’s Ethernet Module Service restores the ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC to factory specs (tests Ethernet ports, verifies protocol compliance) and provides a 6-month warranty. This commitment reflects ProSoft’s confidence in the module’s durability and dedication to helping users unify ControlLogix systems with Modbus TCP networks.
