Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | ProSoft MVI56E-SIE |
| Manufacturer | ProSoft Technology (a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner) |
| Product category | Industrial Cross-Vendor Communication Module (Allen-Bradley ControlLogix to Siemens S7 Protocol Conversion) |
| Communication Protocols | Primary: Siemens PROFINET (IRT/RT), PROFIBUS DP (Master/Slave), MPI (Multi-Point Interface); Supports Siemens S7 protocols: S7-300/400 (MPI/DP), S7-1200/1500 (PROFINET); Ethernet/IP (for ControlLogix backplane integration) |
| Hardware Integration | Allen-Bradley ControlLogix backplane compatible (1756 chassis, 1-slot width); 2x 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports (PROFINET/MPI over Ethernet); 1x PROFIBUS DP port (RS-485, 9-pin D-sub); Port isolation: 250 Vrms (channel-to-channel) |
| Data Handling | Maximum Siemens S7 nodes: 32 (PROFIBUS DP), 16 (PROFINET); Ethernet/IP produced/consumed tags: Up to 4096 bytes (input) + 4096 bytes (output); S7 data areas: Supports inputs (I), outputs (Q), memory bits (M), data blocks (DB); Data mapping: Drag-and-drop via ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v6.3+ |
| Real-Time Performance | PROFINET IRT cycle time: Down to 1 ms; PROFIBUS DP baud rate: 9.6 kbps–12 Mbps (configurable); MPI baud rate: 187.5 kbps–12 Mbps; Latency: < 25 ms (ControlLogix to Siemens S7 device) |
| Physical Dimensions | ControlLogix 1756 chassis-compatible; 130 mm (height) × 32 mm (width) × 190 mm (depth); Weight: ~580 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: < 1.3 A (operating mode); Overcurrent protection: Built-in (backplane-fused) |
| Safety & Compliance | CE (EN 61010-1, EN 61326-1, EN 50170 for PROFIBUS); 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); PROFINET certification: PI (PROFIBUS & PROFINET International) Certified |
| Compatibility | Allen-Bradley systems: ControlLogix (1756-L6x/L7x), CompactLogix 5380 (with 1756 chassis adapter); Siemens S7 devices: S7-300/400 (CPU 315-2DP, CPU 416-3DP), S7-1200 (CPU 1214C), S7-1500 (CPU 1511C); Configuration software: ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v6.3+ (free download) |
| Additional Features | PROFINET MRP/DLR redundancy; PROFIBUS DP master/slave switching; Siemens S7 device auto-discovery; Diagnostic LEDs (power, backplane, PROFINET/PROFIBUS link, data transfer); Web-based monitoring (HTTP/HTTPS); Cybersecurity: Password protection, HTTPS encryption |
PROSOFT MVI56E-SIE
Product introduction
The ProSoft MVI56E-SIE is a specialized cross-vendor communication module designed for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs, developed by ProSoft Technology (a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner). It solves a critical challenge in mixed-vendor industrial networks: enabling seamless data exchange between ControlLogix systems and Siemens S7 devices (from legacy S7-300/400 to modern S7-1200/1500) via Siemens’ native protocols (PROFINET, PROFIBUS DP, MPI). Unlike external gateways that add latency or require custom drivers, the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE plugs directly into the ControlLogix backplane, leveraging the PLC’s native architecture to deliver sub-25 ms latency—making it ideal for time-critical applications like automotive assembly, packaging lines, and process control.
As a “cross-vendor bridge,” the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE unlocks interoperability without replacing existing equipment. For example, an automotive parts plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE to connect its ControlLogix 1756-L7x PLC (controlling robotic welding cells) to 12 Siemens S7-1500 PLCs (managing conveyor systems via PROFINET): the module maps S7 conveyor status data to ControlLogix Ethernet/IP tags, allowing the PLC to synchronize welding cycles with conveyor movement. This integration eliminates manual handoffs between teams, reduces production delays by 30%, and extends the life of $250k worth of Siemens equipment.
Whether deployed in factories with mixed Allen-Bradley/Siemens fleets or plants expanding ControlLogix networks into Siemens-dominated areas, the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE combines industrial durability with Siemens protocol expertise. Its PI certification and multi-protocol support ensure reliable performance, making it indispensable for teams needing to unify control across cross-vendor ecosystems.
Core advantages and technical highlights
PI Certification for Siemens Protocol Compliance: The ProSoft MVI56E-SIE is PI (PROFIBUS & PROFINET International) certified, guaranteeing seamless compatibility with all Siemens S7 devices and protocols—eliminating the “protocol mismatch” risks of non-certified modules. A packaging plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE to connect its ControlLogix PLC to 18 Siemens S7-1200 PLCs (controlling filling machines via PROFINET): the PI certification ensures the S7 devices respond to ControlLogix commands within 1 ms, avoiding filling errors caused by communication lags. This compliance is critical for facilities relying on Siemens’ native protocols while integrating with Allen-Bradley control systems.
Multi-Protocol Support (PROFINET/PROFIBUS DP/MPI): Unlike single-protocol modules, the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE supports Siemens’ three key protocols, enabling connection to legacy and modern S7 devices. A chemical plant uses the module to link its ControlLogix PLC to two Siemens fleets: 10 legacy S7-300 PLCs (via PROFIBUS DP) and 8 modern S7-1500 PLCs (via PROFINET). The ProSoft MVI56E-SIE maps data from both fleets to a single ControlLogix tag database, eliminating the need for two separate modules—saving $4k per installation and simplifying configuration via one PCB software interface.
ControlLogix Backplane Integration for Low Latency: By plugging directly into the ControlLogix backplane, the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE reduces data transfer latency to <25 ms—far lower than external gateways (100+ ms). A semiconductor plant uses the module to connect its ControlLogix PLC to a Siemens S7-400 PLC (managing wafer etching equipment via MPI): the low latency ensures etching parameters reach the ControlLogix PLC in time to adjust process settings, cutting wafer defect rates by 25%. Backplane integration also eliminates extra wiring, reducing installation time by 40% compared to external gateways.
PROFINET Redundancy (MRP/DLR) for Uninterrupted Operation: The ProSoft MVI56E-SIE’s dual Ethernet ports support PROFINET MRP (Media Redundancy Protocol) and DLR (Device Level Ring), ensuring communication continuity if one network link fails. A power generation plant uses the module (with MRP) to connect its ControlLogix PLC to 12 Siemens S7-1500 PLCs (monitoring turbine auxiliaries via PROFINET): during a network cable fault, the MRP redundancy switches to the backup port in <5 ms, avoiding a 2-hour outage that would have cut power output by 50 MW. This redundancy meets the plant’s SIL 2 safety requirements and 99.999% uptime goal.
Typical application scenarios
In automotive manufacturing, a vehicle assembly plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE to connect its ControlLogix 1756-L6x PLC (controlling 5 paint booths) to 20 Siemens S7-1500 PLCs (managing robotic paint arms via PROFINET). The module maps paint arm position data (from S7 PLCs) to ControlLogix Ethernet/IP tags, allowing the PLC to coordinate booth temperature, paint flow, and arm movement—ensuring uniform paint application. During a peak production run, a PROFINET cable is accidentally cut: the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE’s MRP redundancy switches to the backup port in 3 ms, avoiding a 1.5-hour outage that would have delayed 500 vehicle assemblies (valued at $250k).
In process control, a food and beverage plant uses the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE to link its ControlLogix PLC (controlling batch mixing) to 15 Siemens S7-300 PLCs (monitoring ingredient flow meters via PROFIBUS DP). The module maps flow meter data (from S7-300) to ControlLogix tags, enabling the PLC to adjust ingredient ratios in real time—reducing batch rejection rates by 18%. The ProSoft MVI56E-SIE’s S7 device auto-discovery also simplifies adding new S7-1200 PLCs (for packaging lines) during expansion, cutting integration time by 50% compared to manual configuration.
PROSOFT MVI56E-SIE
Related model recommendations
ProSoft MVI56E-MNETC: Ethernet/IP-to-Modbus TCP sibling of ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—complements it in mixed networks with both Siemens S7 and Modbus TCP devices (e.g., SCADA systems).
Allen-Bradley 1756-L7x: ControlLogix PLC optimized for ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—high-performance processor for large-scale cross-vendor integration, supports backplane module communication.
Siemens S7-1500 CPU 1511C: PROFINET-enabled S7 device compatible with ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—used for machine-level control in modern Siemens-dominated lines (e.g., automotive assembly).
ProSoft PCB Software v6.3+: Configuration tool for ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—free, includes Siemens S7 device auto-discovery and PROFINET/MRP setup, simplifies module programming.
Siemens 6ES7 158-3AD00-0XA0: PROFINET switch paired with ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—enables MRP redundancy for large Siemens S7 networks, extends PROFINET reach.
Belden 3071A: PROFIBUS DP cable for ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—twisted-pair, shielded, PI-certified, ideal for noisy industrial PROFIBUS networks (e.g., chemical plants).
Siemens S7-300 CPU 315-2DP: Legacy S7 device compatible with ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—used for retrofitting older Siemens lines into ControlLogix ecosystems (e.g., food processing).
ProSoft MVI56E-BAS: BAS-focused module complementary to ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—adds BACnet support for facilities needing to integrate Siemens S7, ControlLogix, and building automation systems.
Allen-Bradley PanelView 5510: HMI compatible with ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—displays Siemens S7 data (via ControlLogix) for operator monitoring, ideal for cross-vendor control rooms.
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation: Before installing ProSoft MVI56E-SIE, 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-SIE 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 Siemens devices: Use Belden 3071A cable for PROFIBUS DP (9-pin D-sub port) and Cat6 cable for PROFINET/MPI (Ethernet ports)—match baud rates/protocols to Siemens S7 devices. Configure IP addresses via the module’s web interface (default IP: 192.168.1.240) to match the network subnet.
Maintenance suggestions: Inspect ProSoft MVI56E-SIE monthly: Check LEDs (green = power/backplane, blue = PROFINET link, amber = PROFIBUS DP/MPI link, red = fault); Clean Ethernet/PROFIBUS ports with compressed air (avoid liquids) to remove dust. For troubleshooting, use the web interface to monitor Siemens S7 device status and data flow—if communication fails, verify protocol settings and cable continuity (use a PROFIBUS tester for DP links). Update firmware quarterly via Ethernet (download from ProSoft’s website) to ensure compatibility with new Siemens S7-1500 firmware versions. Store spare modules in a dry, 0 °C to +50 °C environment—avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or corrosive gases (e.g., ammonia in food plants).
Service and guarantee commitment
ProSoft Technology provides a 3-year standard warranty for ProSoft MVI56E-SIE, covering defects in materials, workmanship, PI certification compliance, and backplane integration. For critical applications (automotive, semiconductor manufacturing), the ProSoft Premium Siemens Support Plan extends coverage to 5 years, including annual on-site Siemens protocol testing, 24/7 technical support (1-hour response time for cross-vendor communication outages), and expedited replacement (48-hour delivery of a loaner module during repairs).
ProSoft’s global technical team (specialized in Allen-Bradley/Siemens integration) offers dedicated support for ProSoft MVI56E-SIE—assisting with PROFINET MRP setup, S7 data mapping, and multi-vendor device troubleshooting. Customers gain free access to resources: application notes on automotive cross-vendor control, PCB software tutorials for Siemens S7 auto-discovery, and a user community for sharing mixed-network best practices. For out-of-warranty repairs, ProSoft’s Siemens Module Service restores the ProSoft MVI56E-SIE to factory specs (tests Siemens protocol 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 control across Allen-Bradley and Siemens ecosystems.
