Advantech BB-MESP211T User manual

Compact Modbus Gateway
Model BB-MESP211T
USER MANUAL

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
2
Advantech B+B SmartWorx - Americas
707 Dayton Road
Ottawa, IL 61350 USA
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.advantech.com
[e-mail]
Documentation Number: BB-MESP211T_5119m

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
3

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FCC RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT ...................................................................................................6
About This Manual.....................................................................................................................................................6
1. Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................7
About BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway ....................................................................................................................7
BB-MESP211T Features .............................................................................................................................................7
Model Number..............................................................................................................................................................7
Serial Protocol..............................................................................................................................................................7
Serial Port....................................................................................................................................................................7
Ethernet Port................................................................................................................................................................7
BB-MESP211T ............................................................................................................................................................7
RS-232/422/485.........................................................................................................................................................7
Terminal Block (removable).......................................................................................................................................7
RJ45............................................................................................................................................................................7
Configuration Software .............................................................................................................................................7
2. BB-MESP211T Hardware............................................................................................................................................8
Package Checklist.......................................................................................................................................................8
LED Indicators ............................................................................................................................................................8
Mode Switch ..............................................................................................................................................................8
Ethernet Connector ...................................................................................................................................................9
Serial Port Connector.................................................................................................................................................9
Power Connector.....................................................................................................................................................10
Mounting Hardware ................................................................................................................................................10
3. Setup and Connections............................................................................................................................................11
Connecting the Power Supply..................................................................................................................................11
Connecting BB-MESP211T to Modbus networks.....................................................................................................11
Connecting the BB-MESP211T .................................................................................................................................12
Connecting BB-MESP211T to a Network .................................................................................................................13
Configuration Connections ......................................................................................................................................13
Installing Modbus Gateway Manager Software ..................................................................................................13
Configuring the BB-MESP211T via the Network Connection ..............................................................................17
Configuring the Modbus Gateway Manager .......................................................................................................17
Vlinx Modbus Manager Settings Screen Overview..............................................................................................20
General Settings ......................................................................................................................................................22
Configuring BB-MESP211T on Network without A DHCP Server.........................................................................37
Configuring BB-MESP211T via Serial Port (Console Mode) .................................................................................39
Operational Connections.........................................................................................................................................41
Using The BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway in Direct IP Mode ...........................................................................41
Initiating a Hardware Reset on BB-MESP211T ........................................................................................................42
Reloading Factory Defaults......................................................................................................................................42
4. Upgrading Firmware ................................................................................................................................................43
Downloading Firmware Files ...................................................................................................................................44

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
5
Uploading the Firmware to the Modbus Gateway ..................................................................................................44
5. Diagnostics...............................................................................................................................................................45
Testing a Modbus Gateway Connection..................................................................................................................46
Monitor Function.....................................................................................................................................................47
6. Setup Examples........................................................................................................................................................48
Log into your BB-MESP211T ................................................................................................................................48
7. Modbus Help ...........................................................................................................................................................52
Modbus ASCII/RTU Basics........................................................................................................................................52
Hints and Tips ..........................................................................................................................................................52
8. Appendices ..............................................................................................................................................................53
Appendix A: Default Gateway Settings ....................................................................................................................53
Appendix B: Product Specifications.........................................................................................................................54
General Specifications .........................................................................................................................................54
Controls, Indicators, Connector Specifications....................................................................................................55
Serial Interface Specifications..............................................................................................................................55
Network Specifications ........................................................................................................................................56
Appendix C: Dimensional Diagram ..........................................................................................................................57
Appendix D: Serial Connector Pinouts.....................................................................................................................58
Terminal Block Pinouts ........................................................................................................................................58
Advantech B+B SmartWorx Technical Support ...........................................................................................................59
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE PRECAUTIONS................................................................................................................59
Regulatory, Safety, Directives, Standards....................................................................................................................60

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
6
FCC RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense. Any
changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.
The use of non-shielded I/O cables may not guarantee compliance with FCC RFI limits. This digital apparatus does
not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emission from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulation of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux
appareils numériques de classe B prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique publié par le
ministère des Communications du Canada.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
2019 Advantech B+B SmartWorx. All rights reserved. Information in this manual is subject to change without
notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Advantech B+B SmartWorx. Advantech B+B
SmartWorx assumes no responsibility for errors that may appear in this document. Advantech B+B SmartWorx
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance or use of
this manual.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photography, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system without written
consent.
Other brands or product names used in this manual may be registered trademarks and the property of their
respective owners. The use of trademarks or other designations in this publication is for reference purposes only
and does not constitute an endorsement by the trademark holder.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
7
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway. This product has been manufactured to the highest
standards of quality and performance to ensure your satisfaction.
ABOUT BB-MESP211T MODBUS GATEWAY
Model BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway connects Modbus networks (RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485) to Ethernet
networks, allowing the Modbus network to become a node on the network. The serial port can be accessed over a
LAN/WAN using Direct IP Mode connections. Model BB-MESP211T features a 10/100BaseTX copper RJ-45 port.
The BB-MESP211Tis built for industrial environments, featuring an IP30 slim-line, panel mountable case with a DIN
rail mounting option. The server requires a 10-30Vdc power source. A 12Vdc wall adapter power supply is
included and the preferred method to power the unit.
BB-MESP211T FEATURES
Model Number
Serial Protocol
Serial Port
Ethernet Port
BB-MESP211T
RS-232/422/485
Terminal Block (removable)
RJ45
•Pluggable terminal block serial port connector
•Software selectable as RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 2- or 4-wire
•Configuration of Ethernet and serial port settings using software
•Configuration can be done via network, web page or direct serial connection
•Slim-line, panel mountable case (DIN rail mount option)
•10-30Vdc power input required; 12Vdc AC wall adapter included (Model# BB-SMI-12-V-P5)
•10/100 Mbps Ethernet with Auto Selection, Auto MDI/MDIX
•LAN and WAN Communications
•Modbus TCP Client or Modbus TCP Server - configurable
•Firmware Upload for future revisions/upgrades
•Software Support - Windows XP (32/64 bit), 2003 Server (32/64 bit), Vista (32/64 bit), 2008
Server (32/64 bit), Windows 7 (32/64 bit), Windows 8 (32/64 bit), Windows Server 2012
CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE
The configuration software enables you to find connected Modbus Gateways, configure them, upgrade
firmware, and save/load configuration files. It features a graphical user interface (GUI) that is convenient
and easy to use.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
8
2. BB-MESP211THARDWARE
The BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway is enclosed in a panel mountable case with a DIN rail mount option and
features LED indicators, power, Ethernet and serial connectors and a recessed Reset/Mode switch.
PACKAGE CHECKLIST
BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway ships with the following items included:
•BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway Module
•Quick Start Guide
•CD with configuration software
•12Vdc AC Wall Adapter Power Supply
LED INDICATORS
BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway has a Power LED, a Ready LED and Data LEDs.
LEDs
Ready
Off
Power is not connected.
On
Power is connected.
Ethernet
Off
No Ethernet link.
On
Ethernet link.
Blink
Ethernet activity.
Serial
On
Serial port is available.
Blink
Data is present on serial port.
LEDs
MODE SWITCH
A recessed momentary reset switch is located on the front left side of the enclosure. To activate the
switch, insert a small plastic tool through the enclosure hole and press gently.
Mode/Reset Switch

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
9
The Mode/Reset switch can be used to:
•Initiate a Hardware Reset
•Enter Console Mode
•Reload Factory Defaults
Note: Refer to Section 3: Modbus Gateway Setup and Connections for more information on using the Mode switch.
ETHERNET CONNECTOR
Modbus Gateway models using 10BaseT/100BaseTX network connections use an RJ45 receptacle. The
Modbus Gateway is connected to a standard Ethernet network drop using a straight-through RJ45 (male)
Ethernet cable.
Ethernet Connector.
Note: Refer to Appendix D for connection pin-outs.
SERIAL PORT CONNECTOR
Model BB-MESP211T has a 5-position terminal block connector.
Five-Position, Pluggable Terminal Block

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
10
POWER CONNECTOR
BB-MESP211T serial server uses a barrel jack connector for power. The connector accepts a 2.1 mm
plug and requires 12 VDC at 2.5 W maximum. Note: a 12Vdc wall adapter power supply is included.
Power Connection - 12 V DC input
NOTE: 12V DC wall adapter/power supply included with each serial server and is the preferred method to power the unit.
MOUNTING HARDWARE
An optional DIN rail mount adapter is available from Advantech B+B SmartWorx (# BB-DRAD35).
Optional DIN Clip for Modbus Gateway Module.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
11
3. SETUP AND CONNECTIONS
Note: In this section, devices to be connected to the Modbus Gateway’s serial connection are referred to as the “Modbus
network”.
CONNECTING THE POWER SUPPLY
Connect a DC power supply to BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway. A 12V DC, 6W power supply is included with
international AC blades.
NOTE: A 12V DC wall adapter/power supply is included with each serial server and is the preferred method to power the unit.
NOTE: acceptable voltages are 10- 30 V DC. The power supply must be capable of supplying 4W.
BB-MESP211 Power Connection
CONNECTING BB-MESP211T TO MODBUS NETWORKS
The BB-MESP211T gateway can be configured to connect to Modbus networks using RS-232, RS-422,
RS-422 4-wire connections support two signal pairs: RXA(-), RXB(+) and TXA(-), TXB(+), plus GND. The
data lines are differential pairs (A & B) in which the B line is positive relative to the A line in the idle (mark)
state. Ground provides a common mode reference. RS-232 connections are also supported.RS-485
connections support 2-wire or 4-wire operation.
When configured for 4-wire operation the connection supports two signal pairs: RXA(-), RXB(+) and
TXA(-), TXB(+), plus GND. This makes full-duplex operation possible. The data lines are differential pairs
(A & B) in which the B line is positive relative to the A line in the idle (mark) state. Ground provides a
common mode reference.
When configured for 2-wire operation the connection supports one signal pair: Data B(+) and Data A(-)
signal channels using half-duplex operation. The data lines are differential with the Data B line positive
relative to Data A in the idle (mark) state. Ground provides a common mode reference.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
12
CONNECTING THE BB-MESP211T
The BB-MESP211Thas a 5-position, pluggable terminal block connector.
If you select RS-232 mode when you configure the Modbus Gateway, you must connect the Modbus
serial network to the Modbus Gateway via a serial cable. The BB-MESP211T is a DTE. If the Modbus
network is a DTE, use a null modem (cross-over) cable.
If the Modbus network is a DCE, use a straight-through cable. DTE and DCE ports are complementary,
the Output signals on a DTE port are Inputs to a DCE port, and Output signals on a DCE port are
Inputs to a DTE port. The signal names match each other and connect pin for pin. Signal flow is in the
direction of the arrows
BB-MESP211T Serial Connections
BB-MESP211T Connections

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
13
CONNECTING BB-MESP211T TO A NETWORK
Network Connection (10BaseT/100BaseTX)
When connecting the BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway with a 10BaseT/100BaseTX network connection (RJ45
connector), a standard network cable is connected from the Modbus Gateway to a network drop. PCs configuring
and/or communicating with the Modbus Gateway are also connected to the network.
CONFIGURATION CONNECTIONS
The BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway can be configured over the network or via a serial port.
INSTALLING MODBUS GATEWAY MANAGER SOFTWARE
1. The Modbus Gateway Manager Software is contained on the CD that is packaged with the product.
Insert the CD into your CD ROM drive. The software should automatically begin the installation
process. If AUTO RUN is disabled on your computer, open the CD drive and double-click on the
executable file.
a. The following screen will be displayed on your computer.
Modbus Gateway Manager Installation Welcome Screen
b. Click “Next.” The License Agreement Screen will be displayed on your computer.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
14
Modbus License Acceptance Screen
c. Click “Next.” The User Information Screen will be displayed on your computer. Enter your name
and organization (optional) and select if the software will be accessible to your account or anyone
who uses the computer.
User Information Screen
d. Click “Next.” The Destination Folder Screen will be displayed on your computer. The default
directory is:
C:\Program Files\Advantech B+B SmartWorx\Vlinx\Modbus Gateway Manager

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
15
If desired, you can select another location by pressing the “Browse” button.
Destination Folder Screen
e. Click “Next.” The Ready to Install Application Screen will be displayed on your computer. You can
select the “Back” button to change destination folder.
Ready to Install Application Screen

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
16
f. Click “Next.” The software will begin installing.
Software Installing Screen
g. Click “Next.” The Installation Complete screen will be displayed on your computer. Click “Finish”
to finish the installation.
Installation Complete Screen

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
17
CONFIGURING THE BB-MESP211T VIA THE NETWORK CONNECTION
When configuring via the network, either Modbus Gateway Manager software or the web interface can be used.
CONFIGURING THE MODBUS GATEWAY MANAGER
The BB-MESP211T Modbus Gateway can be configured over the network with Modbus Gateway Manager software
running on a PC.
To open Modbus Gateway Manager:
1. From the Desktop, click Start Programs B+B Electronics Vlinx Vlinx Modbus
Gateway ManagerModbus Gateway Manager. An alternate method is to double click the
shortcut installed on the desktop.
Opening Vlinx Modbus Gateway Manager

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
18
Vlinx Modbus Gateway Manager Shortcut Icon
The Vlinx Modbus Gateway Manager Device Discovery window appears.
Modbus Gateway Manager Discovery Window
If you do not know the IP address, check the “Network” and “I don’t know the IP address of this device”
selections and press the “Connect”button. The software will discover any BB-MESP211T gateways on the network.
The configuration manager screen will be displayed on your computer. All available devices will be listed on the
top portion of this screen. If you know the IP address, you may select “The Device is located at this IP address”
and input the address in the box provided.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
19
Configuration Manager Screen
2. All Modbus Gateways on the network will be displayed in the top portion of the screen. To
select a gateway, simply click the appropriate device on the top portion of the screen.
a. The main portion of the screen displays the Model, Firmware version, Hardware Version,
MAC Address, and Link Status. The IP Address is also displayed on the top portion of the
screen and title graphic area.
3. There is no password unless you choose to enter one. The default password is no password
at all. Click the “Login” button. The “General” Settings screen will be displayed on your
computer.

Modbus Gateway – BB-MESP211T
20
VLINX MODBUS MANAGER SETTINGS SCREEN OVERVIEW
Settings Screen Overview
a. This area shows Modbus Gateways available on the network.
b. This area is used to jump directly to the configuration screen you need to access. An
alternate method of accessing the configuration screens is to use the “Next” button in
area C.
c. This area contains dialog boxes specific the configuration screen.
1. Note: Any configuration changes you make need to be saved using the “Save” button.
d. This area contains helpful information about the configuration screen that you are
currently on.