PROSOFT MVI56-BAS communication module

Description

The MVI56‑BAS communication module from ProSoft Technology is a rugged device built for smooth data exchange between a Rockwell Automation PLC and a variety of fieldbus networks. It has a solid metal housing that protects sensitive electronics in harsh industrial settings. The module adds a reliable link to networks such as Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP, and ASCII‑based serial protocols by using its built‑in Ethernet port and RS‑232/RS‑485 serial port. It works as a bridge that moves data between the PLC backplane and external devices on a fieldbus. It handles up to 128 discrete tags in each direction and it can scan updates in less than 10 ms so control loops stay tight. The unit supports both command and response modes for ASCII devices and it can host multiple TCP client or server sessions at the same time. It has a high‑speed processor and plenty of memory to store custom message maps so you can adapt it to different machine needs without extra hardware.

The module draws power from the PLC rack and it uses less than 3 W under full load. It runs over a wide temperature range from –20 °C to +70 °C and it can sit in storage from –40 °C to +85 °C. It resists vibration up to 2 g and shocks up to 15 g so it survives transport and field service. It has built‑in protection against short circuits and transient voltage spikes on its serial port lines so it keeps running when power quality is unstable. It meets CE safety and EMC rules and it follows RoHS limits on harmful substances so you can install it in any European plant without extra clearance. It uses on‑board LEDs to show power, link and error status for both Ethernet and serial ports. It signals PLC scan faults with a bright red LED so you know right away if communication stops or if messages get corrupted. You can use simple dip switches or the software tool to set serial port parameters like baud rate, parity and stop bits without writing any ladder logic.

The shape of the MVI56‑BAS is a slim block that measures 110 mm high, 30 mm wide and 120 mm deep. It plugs directly into a 1769‑AENT or similar Flex I/O adapter without extra cables so installation is fast and neat. It locks in place with a spring clip on the back of the module and it holds tight under heavy cable pulls. You slide it out by pressing a release tab at the bottom so maintenance is simple and tool‑free. The front face has two RJ45 jacks for Ethernet, one screw‑clamp terminal pair for RS‑232, and one removable terminal block for RS‑485. The LED array sits above these ports so you can see status with a quick glance. The module ships ready to run with default settings so you can power up and go straight to mapping I/O. You load your custom map file from the PLC programming software or from a USB port on the module if you set it up offline. You can get the full English datasheet and user guide by contacting your ProSoft distributor or by requesting the file through your local sales office.