Advantech Vlinx MESR9 Series User manual

Vlinx™ Modbus Gateways
MESR9xx series
USER MANUAL

MESR9xx Modbus Gateways:
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Documentation Number: MESR9xx_1119m

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CONTENTS
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT..................................................................................................... 6
1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 7
About MESR9xx Modbus Gateways ....................................................................................... 7
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways – Numbering Matrix.................................................................. 8
List of MESR9xx Modbus Gateway Models ............................................................................ 9
MESR9xx Modbus Gateway Features ...................................................................................10
Vlinx™ Manager Configuration Software ...............................................................................10
2. MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAY HARDWARE .....................................................................11
Package Checklist .................................................................................................................11
MESR9xx Modbus Gateway Enclosures & Mounting .............................................................11
LED Indicators .......................................................................................................................12
E1/E2 Ethernet Link LED....................................................................................................12
Ready LED .........................................................................................................................12
Serial Port LEDs .................................................................................................................12
Mode Switch ..........................................................................................................................13
Ethernet Connector................................................................................................................13
Fiber Optic Connectors ..........................................................................................................14
Serial Port Connectors...........................................................................................................14
Power Connector ...................................................................................................................15
Mounting Hardware ...............................................................................................................15
3. MODBUS GATEWAY SETUP & CONNECTIONS ................................................................16
Connecting the Power Supply................................................................................................16
Connecting MESR9xx Modbus Gateways to Modbus Networks ............................................16
Connecting the MESR9x2T-x .............................................................................................18

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Connecting MESR9xx Modbus Gateways to a Network.........................................................18
Network Connection (10BaseT/100BaseTX) ......................................................................18
Fiber Optic Connection .......................................................................................................18
MESR9xx Modbus Gateway Configuration Connections........................................................18
Installing Modbus Configuration Manager Software............................................................19
Configuring the Gateway via the Network Connection ...........................................................23
Configuring with Modbus Configuration Manager ...............................................................23
Configuring the MESR9xx Modbus Gateway on Networks without a DHCP Server ............38
Configuring the MESR9xx Modbus Gateway via the Serial Port (Console Mode) ...............41
MESR9xx Modbus Gateway Operational Connections ..........................................................43
Using MESR9xx Modbus Gateways in Direct IP Mode .......................................................43
Initiating a Hardware Reset on the Modbus Gateway.............................................................44
Reloading Factory Defaults....................................................................................................44
4. UPGRADING THE MODBUS GATEWAY FIRMWARE.........................................................45
Downloading Firmware Files..................................................................................................46
Uploading the Firmware to the Modbus Gateway...................................................................46
5. DIAGNOSTICS.....................................................................................................................47
Testing a Modbus Gateway Connection.................................................................................47
Monitor Function ....................................................................................................................48
6. APPLICATION EXAMPLES..................................................................................................49
Ethernet Master and Serial Slaves.........................................................................................49
Serial & Ethernet Masters, Serial & Ethernet Slaves..............................................................55
Serial Masters, IP Slaves.......................................................................................................57
Identical Hard Coded Slaves..................................................................................................63
Identical Production Lines......................................................................................................64
7. MODBUS HELP ...................................................................................................................65

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Modbus ASCII / RTU Basics ..................................................................................................65
Hints and Tips........................................................................................................................66
8. APPENDICES ......................................................................................................................67
Appendix A: Default Gateway Settings ..................................................................................68
Appendix B: Product Specifications .......................................................................................69
General Specifications........................................................................................................70
Controls, Indicators and Connector Specifications..............................................................71
Serial Interface Specifications.............................................................................................72
Network Specifications .......................................................................................................72
Appendix C: Dimensional Diagrams.......................................................................................73
Appendix D: Connector Pinouts .............................................................................................77
MESR901 Serial Port Pinouts.............................................................................................77
MESR902T Serial Port Pinouts...........................................................................................78
Standard Ethernet Cable RJ45 Pin-out...............................................................................79
GLOSSARY ..............................................................................................................................80
APPROVALS, DIRECTIVES, STANDARDS .............................................................................81
ADVANTECH TECHNICAL SUPPORT.....................................................................................81

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ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
© 2019 Advantech 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. Information in this manual is subject to change without notice, and does
not represent a commitment on the part of Advantech
Advantech shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing,
performance, or use of this manual.
All brand names used in this manual are the registered trademarks 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.

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1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a MESR9xx Modbus Gateway product. This product has been
manufactured to the highest standards of quality and performance to ensure your complete
satisfaction.
An MESR921-MT Modbus Gateway
ABOUT MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAYS
MESR9xx Modbus Gatewaysconnect 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 ports can be
accessed over a LAN/WAN using Direct IP Mode connections.
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways feature 10BaseT or 100BaseTX copper network media and fiber optic
media options, depending on the model. MESR9xx Modbus Gateways are built for use in industrial
environments, featuring an IP30 approved slim-line DIN rail mountable case. They operate from a range
of DC power supply voltages and feature pluggable terminal block power connectors. An external power
supply, sold separately, is required.. MESR90x units have one Ethernet port. MESR92x units have an
additional Ethernet port which functions much like an Ethernet Switch.

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MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAYS – NUMBERING MATRIX

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LIST OF MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAY MODELS
The following table lists the available MESR9xx Modbus Gateway model configurations.
Model
Number
Serial
Port/s
Serial
Connector
Ethernet
Port/s
Ethernet
Media
Ethernet
Connector/s
MESR901
1
DB9 or TB
1
Copper
(1) RJ-45
MESR902T
2
TB
1
Copper
(1) RJ-45
MESR921
1
DB9 or TB
2
(2) Copper
(2) RJ-45
MESR922T
2
TB
2
(2) Copper
(2) RJ-45
MESR921-MT
1
DB9 or TB
2
MM Fiber, Copper
(1) RJ-45 & (1) ST
MESR922T-SC
2
TB
2
SM Fiber (15 km) & Copper
(1) RJ-45 & (1) SC

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MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAY FEATURES
•Four series:
•MESR901 (one serial port, one Ethernet Port)
•MESR902T (two serial ports with pluggable terminal blocks, one Ethernet port)
•MESR921-x (one serial port, two Ethernet Ports)
•MESR922T-x (two serial ports with pluggable terminal blocks, two Ethernet Ports)
•On models with two Ethernet Ports, the second port is an Ethernet pass-through port
that functions much like an unmanaged switch.
•Fiber model options – multi-mode or single-mode, SC or ST connectors
•Multi-interface serial ports
•DB9M and/or pluggable terminal block serial port connector options
•All ports are software selectable as RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 2-wire and 4-wire
•Configuration via network or direct serial connection
•Slim-line, DIN rail mountable case
•Accepts DC power over a wide voltage range
•10/100 Mbps Ethernet with auto-selection, auto MDI/MDIX
•LAN and WAN communications
•TCP Client or Server operation - configurable
•Firmware upload for future revisions/upgrades
•Software Support: Windows 2000, XP (32/64 bit), 2003 Server (32/64 bit), Vista (32/64
bit), 2008 Server (32/64 bit), 7 (32/64 bit), 8, 10
•Configuration of Ethernet and serial port settings using Vlinx Manager software
VLINX™ MANAGER CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE
The included Vlinx Manager configuration software enables you to find connected Modbus
gateways, configure them, upgrade Modbus gateway firmware, and save/load configuration files.
It features a Graphical User Interface (“GUI”) that is convenient and easy to use.

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2. MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAY HARDWARE
PACKAGE CHECKLIST
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways are shipped with the following items included:
•MESR9xx Modbus Gateway Module
•Quick Start Guide
•CD with User Manual, Quick Start Guide, Firmware and Configuration Software
MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAY ENCLOSURES & MOUNTING
Each MESR9xx Modbus Gateway is packaged into one of two similar DIN rail mountable
enclosures. Each gateway features LED indicators, power, Ethernet and serial connectors and a
recessed mode switch.
NOTE: The MESR921 (shown below) enclosure is larger than an MESR90x unit. See the
specification table for enclosure dimensions.
Front View of an MESR921 Modbus Gateway

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LED INDICATORS
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways have three types of LED indicators: Ethernet Link LEDs,
Ready LED and Serial Port LEDs.
Ready Ethernet Port LEDs on 1 and 2 Ethernet Port Modbus Gateways
E1/E2 ETHERNET LINK LED
The Ethernet Link LED (E1 or E2) illuminates (green) if the Ethernet is connected.
When the LED is blinking, it indicates that there is data traffic on the Ethernet link.
E1 is used for all models to connect to the network. E2 is used on MESR92x models,
and is a pass-through Ethernet connector.
READY LED
The Ready LED (green) blinks if the system is operating correctly, once per second in
normal operating conditions, or three times per second in reset, configuration mode, or
when loading factory defaults. If the LED is off or steady, it indicates the system is not
operating correctly.
SERIAL PORT LEDS
Model MESR901 Modbus Gateway features one serial port. Model MESR902T Modbus
Gateway features two serial ports. Each serial port has an associated LED. Serial Port
LEDs blink (green) when data is being transmitted or received on the serial port. When
the LED is On, it indicates the serial port is open.
Serial Port LEDs on 1 and 2 Serial Port Modbus Gateways

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MODE SWITCH
A recessed momentary reset switch is located on the top of the enclosure. To activate the
switch, insert a small plastic tool through the hole in the enclosure and press lightly.
Mode Switch
The Mode 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 Connectors. E2 is pass-through connection on model shown
NOTE:Refer to Appendix D for connection pin-outs.

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FIBER OPTIC CONNECTORS
Modbus gateway models using fiber optic network connections use either SC or ST connectors,
depending on the specific model.
SC and ST Fiber Optic Cable Connectors
SERIAL PORT CONNECTORS
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways use four serial port connector configurations, depending on the
model:
•MESR901 Modbus Gateway features one serial port and uses a DB9M connector for RS-
232 and a 5-position removable terminal block for RS-422 and RS-485 connections.
•MESR902T Modbus Gateway features two serial ports, both using 5-position removable
terminal blocks for RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 connections.
•MESR921-x Modbus Gateways feature one serial port and use a DB9M connector for RS-
232 and a 5-position removable terminal block for RS-422 and RS-485 connections.
•MESR922T-x Modbus Gateways feature two serial ports, both using 5-position removable
terminal blocks for RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 connections.
DB9 Female Serial Port Connector
Five-Position Pluggable Terminal Block
NOTE:Refer to Appendix D for connection pin-outs.

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POWER CONNECTOR
The power connector is a 2-position pluggable terminal block.
Power Connection
MOUNTING HARDWARE
MESR9xx Modbus Gateway modules can be DIN rail mounted. The DIN mounting clip and
spring is included on each module.
DIN Clips Detail - large DIN clips are used on MESR92x; small DIN clips on MESR90x.

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3. MODBUS GATEWAY SETUP & CONNECTIONS
NOTE: In this section, devices to be connected to the Modbus gateway’s serial connection are simply
referred to as the “Modbus network”.
CONNECTING THE POWER SUPPLY
Connect a DC power supply to the power terminals on the top of the Modbus gateway. Polarity
of the wires is indicated on the label on the side of the Modbus gateway. Acceptable voltages
are between 10 VDC and 48 VDC. The power supply must be capable of supplying 4 Watts for
MESR90x units or 6 Watts from MESR92x units.
MESR Power Connection
CONNECTING MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAYS TO MODBUS NETWORKS
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways can be configured to connect to Modbus networks using RS-232,
RS-422, RS-485 2-wire and RS-485 4-wire.
RS-232 connections support eight signal lines plus Signal Ground. Signals are single ended and
referenced to Ground. Default communications parameters are 9600, 8, N, 1 and no flow control
implemented.
RS-422 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-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: DataB(+) and
DataA(-) 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.

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The MESR9x1-x has one serial connection that supports RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 (2-
and 4-wire). The unit has two connectors: a DB9M connector and a 5-position terminal block.
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. Model MESR901 is DTE. If
the Modbus network is DTE, use a null modem (cross-over) cable. If the Modbus network is
DCE, use a straight-through cable. DTE and DCT ports are complementary, the Output
signals on a DTE port are Inputs to a DCE port; 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. See figure below.
If you select RS-422 mode, RS-485 2-wire mode, or RS-485 4-wire mode when you configure the
Modbus gateway, you must connect the Modbus network appropriately, via the 5-position terminal
block.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix D for connector pin out information.
MESR901 Connections

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CONNECTING THE MESR9x2T-X
The MESR9x2T-xx has two serial connections that support RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485
(2-wire and 4-wire). The unit has two connectors - both are 5-position terminal blocks.
Make the appropriate connections to the terminal blocks to match the serial connection
mode that you select when configuring the Modbus gateway.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix D for connector pinout information.
MESR902T Connections
CONNECTING MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAYS TO A NETWORK
NETWORK CONNECTION (10BASET/100BASETX)
When connecting a Modbus gateway equipped 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.
FIBER OPTIC CONNECTION
When connecting a Modbus gateway equipped with a fiber optic interface to a
fiber optic link, the appropriate fiber optic cable must be connected between the
Modbus gateway and the network interface. Refer to Figure 2, “List of
xx Modbus Gateway Models” at the beginning of this manual for a list of supported fiber
types, distances and connectors.
MESR9xx MODBUS GATEWAY CONFIGURATION CONNECTIONS
MESR9xx Modbus Gateways can be configured over the network or via a serial port.

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INSTALLING MODBUS CONFIGURATION MANAGER SOFTWARE
1. The Modbus Configuration Manager Software is contained on the CD which 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. The file name is
Modbus Gateway Manager Vx.x.x.
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 License Acceptance Screen

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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\BB Electronics\Vlinx\Modbus Gateway Manager\
If desired, you can select another location by clicking the Browse button.
Destination Folder Screen