HMS expands its range of next-generation gateways with the Anybus® Communicator™ Modbus™ TCP Client – Modbus TCP Server, a high-performance gateway that provides an easy and reliable way to connect Modbus TCP control systems to Modbus TCP devices.
In April 2024, HMS launched five Anybus Communicator Modbus TCP Client gateways, enabling Modbus TCP devices to connect to EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, or PROFINET control systems. Now, HMS is expanding the lineup with another Anybus Communicator Modbus TCP Client, designed to connect Modbus TCP control systems to Modbus TCP devices.
Beyond connectivity, the Anybus Communicator Modbus TCP Client – Modbus TCP Server enhances network security by segmenting the network. By only forwarding the required data to the intended target and blocking unauthorized traffic, it provides an extra layer of protection against cyber threats. This makes it a valuable addition, even when protocol conversion isn’t required.
The Modbus TCP market continues to grow as customers transition from Modbus RTU to Modbus TCP, driven by reduced cabling costs and increased data transfer speeds. This shift has created demand for a high-performance gateway that can seamlessly integrate Modbus TCP devices with Modbus TCP control systems. The Anybus Communicator Modbus TCP Client meets this need by providing a reliable and intuitive solution for connecting Modbus TCP devices to Modbus TCP control systems.
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 TCP Client – Modbus TCP Server to our growing family of Modbus TCP Clients and next-generation, high-performance gateways," said Fredrik Brynolf, Anybus Gateway Product Manager at HMS Networks. "Our customers need a modern, secure gateway with high-speed data transfer to connect Modbus TCP devices with Modbus TCP control systems. This gateway meets this need, and importantly, it’s 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. The gateways can also be pre-configured to be used as tightly integrated communication components of an automation device or a machine.
The Anybus Communicator Modbus TCP Client – Modbus TCP Server connects Modbus TCP control systems to Modbus TCP devices.
About HMS Networks
HMS Networks AB (publ) is a market-leading provider of solutions in industrial information and communication technology (Industrial ICT). HMS develops and manufactures products under the Anybus®, Ewon®, Intesis®, and Ixxat® brands. Headquartered in Halmstad, Sweden, HMS also has offices in Germany, USA, Japan, China, Singapore, Italy, France, Spain, the Netherlands, India, UK, South Korea, Australia, and UAE, as well as a worldwide network of distributors and partners. HMS employs over 800 people and reported sales of SEK 3,025 million in 2023. HMS is listed on the NASDAQ OMX in Stockholm, category Large Cap, Information Technology.