14 Apr 2025 at 00:00 GMT+2
By Magnus Jansson
Product News
Anybus

HMS Networks expands range of Next-Generation Gateways with Anybus Communicator Modbus RTU Server

Modbus-rrt-productl-launch-SoMe-05

HMS now launches the Anybus® Communicator™ Modbus™ RTU Server, a high-performance gateway that provides an easy and reliable way to connect Modbus RTU control systems to major industrial networks.  

A versatile range of Modbus RTU Gateways 

HMS introduces ten (!) new Anybus Communicator Modbus RTU gateways: 

  • Eight controller-to-controller gateways that connect Modbus RTU control systems to EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, PROFIBUS, and PROFINET control systems. The controller-to-controller gateways include: 

    • Common Ethernet versions, where a single unit lets you select and run the desired Industrial Ethernet network. 
    • ATEX Zone 2 and UL Class I, Division 2-certified versions, designed for hazardous environments. 
  • Two device-to-controller gateways that connect Modbus RTU control systems to EtherNet/IP or Modbus TCP devices. 

Stable Modbus RTU Market 

While new Modbus RTU installations have declined—accounting for just 4% of new installations in 2024—millions of active Modbus RTU devices or networks remain in operation. As a result, there is ongoing demand for reliable, high-performance gateways that can seamlessly integrate Modbus RTU devices or Modbus RTU control systems.  

The Anybus Communicator Modbus RTU Servers meet this demand by providing a modern, reliable solution for connecting Modbus RTU devices or control systems to major industrial networks.  

 

Next-generation technology   

Like all Anybus next-generation gateways, these Anybus Communicators provide reliable, secure, and user-friendly technology:   

Proven and fast communication using Anybus NP40 technology   

The award-winning Anybus NP40 industrial network processor ensures that the Communicators meet demanding requirements in terms of industrial performance, reliability, and security. Featuring new hardware and software, the gateways enable instant data transfer – up to 10 times faster than their predecessors. Users can also exchange significantly more data between the networks as the gateways transfer up to 1 500 bytes to and from connected PLCs.  

Robust and secure communication

Built using carefully selected industrial components and verified against the CE and UL industry standards, the gateways are designed to handle harsh industrial environments.   

To protect users from cyberattacks, the gateways have an onboard physical security switch that prevents unauthorized configuration changes and secure boot functionality to resist attacks and infections from malware.  

       

 Fast installation and intuitive configuration

Fast installation and smooth configuration procedures are guaranteed thanks to an optimized housing design, an intuitive GUI, and easy-to-understand documentation.   

Installation is simplified thanks to the compact gateway design with forward-facing ports and DIN-rail mounting, which allows gateway installation close to connected devices, reducing the amount of required wiring.   

Users can configure the gateways using drag-and-drop functionality in the web-based GUI, which is accessible via a dedicated Ethernet port on the gateways. In the GUI, users can also monitor network traffic passing through the gateway and diagnose issues before they become problems.   

Hands-on assistance is available, as a QR code in the GUI provides a step-by-step installation and configuration guide. This allows users to access helpful instructions on their phones, even if the local equipment is offline.  

 

"We are delighted to add the Anybus Communicator Modbus RTU Servers to our range of next-generation gateways," said Fredrik Brynolf, Anybus Gateway Product Manager at HMS Networks. “With millions of Modbus RTU installations still in use, our customers need a modern, high-speed gateway to connect their Modbus RTU devices or networks to other major industrial networks. The Anybus Communicator Modbus RTU Servers meet this need and, importantly, they’re also incredibly intuitive to use.” 

Anybus Communicators are available off the shelf as stand-alone ready-to-install units. Users can personalize the Communicators to meet OEM and brand labeling requirements.

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