Modbus RTU to CAN – industrial gateways for automation and BMS

Industrial Modbus RTU to CAN converters

A Modbus RTU to CAN converter (gateway) is a device that enables seamless data exchange between Modbus RTU networks and CAN or CANopen systems. This integration allows PLCs, BMS controllers, SCADA software and other supervisory systems to communicate with CAN-based devices such as sensors, drives, ECUs, actuators, and data acquisition modules. By bridging two popular industrial protocols, Modbus RTU and CANopen, these gateways eliminate interoperability barriers and allow system integrators to design unified and scalable automation networks.

Modbus RTU is a serial protocol, typically using RS-485 or RS-232, known for its simplicity, robustness, and cost efficiency. It is widely deployed in industrial automation, building management, HVAC systems, and energy monitoring. CAN (Controller Area Network) on the other hand is a real-time communication protocol with strong noise immunity, commonly used in automotive, railway, heavy machinery, and medical applications. An extended version, CANopen, defines standardized communication profiles, making it easier to integrate devices from multiple vendors. A Modbus RTU to CAN gateway therefore acts as a bridge, combining the strengths of both protocols and enabling interoperability in demanding industrial environments.

Explore our Modbus RTU to CAN converters

Every Modbus RTU to CAN converter in our portfolio is designed for industrial-grade use. They feature DIN rail mounting, compact slim housings, and high EMC immunity, ensuring reliable operation even in harsh environments. With a wide operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C, these gateways can be installed in both control cabinets exposed to high heat and outdoor enclosures subject to frost or humidity. Depending on the model, converters support RS-232, RS-485, and CAN/CANopen interfaces, giving integrators the flexibility to adapt to various communication infrastructures.

Configuration is simple thanks to free PC software provided with each device. This intuitive tool allows mapping of Modbus registers to CANopen objects and includes diagnostic features for monitoring network status and troubleshooting. Depending on the device model, converters can handle from a few hundred to several thousand communication objects, making them suitable for small-scale BMS projects as well as large industrial automation systems. Some gateways also offer firmware upgrade options, ensuring long-term support and adaptability to evolving standards.

Advantages of Modbus RTU to CAN integration

• Bi-directional communication between Modbus RTU and CAN/CANopen networks
• Support for multiple modes: Modbus master/slave and CANopen node/master
• Triple galvanic isolation (Modbus – CAN – Power supply) for enhanced reliability
• Serial speeds up to 115200 bps and CAN speeds up to 1 Mbps
• Flexible power supply: 12–35 VDC or 24 VAC
• Reliable 24/7 operation in industrial environments

Application areas

Modbus RTU to CAN converters are applied across multiple industries. Typical use cases include:

• Building automation – integrating Modbus energy meters with CANopen-based HVAC systems
• Automotive – connecting Modbus monitoring devices with CAN ECUs
• Railway and transportation – supervising train subsystems and auxiliary equipment
• Industrial machinery – linking Modbus-based sensors with CAN-driven drives and motors
• Energy sector – mapping Modbus RTU measurement data into CAN/SCADA supervisory systems

By bridging these networks, gateways enable centralized monitoring, real-time control, and efficient data acquisition in heterogeneous environments. For system integrators, they provide flexibility and reduce engineering time by avoiding the need for custom protocol development.

Why choose our Modbus RTU to CAN converters?

Our Modbus RTU to CAN gateways combine robust design, easy configuration, and scalability. They are suitable for both small BMS projects and large industrial networks, supporting standard CAN and CANopen communication profiles. Thanks to their flexibility, they can be used in new installations or retrofitted into existing infrastructures. Certified quality and professional support ensure that your integration project will be stable and future-proof.

Choose the Modbus RTU to CAN converter that matches your project requirements and explore detailed technical specifications in our product catalog: