Industrial Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converters – what are they used for?
An industrial Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter enables the integration
of devices communicating via Modbus TCP
with control systems based on the high-speed, deterministic EtherCAT protocol.
These converters are used in industrial automation wherever field devices, SCADA systems,
or Ethernet-based controllers operate on Modbus TCP,
while the main PLC or motion controller requires EtherCAT communication.
Using a converter allows both protocols to be connected without changing the existing infrastructure.
The Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter acts as a protocol gateway,
mapping process data from the Modbus TCP network
into the EtherCAT process data area in a stable and predictable manner.
How does a Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter work?
On the Modbus TCP side, the converter operates as a client or server,
reading and writing data from Ethernet-based Modbus devices.
On the EtherCAT side, it appears as a standard real-time slave device,
cyclically exchanging process data with the EtherCAT master.
Modbus TCP registers (holding registers, input registers, coils)
are mapped into the EtherCAT data structure,
allowing the control system to:
- read measurement data from Modbus TCP devices,
- send control commands and setpoints,
- monitor alarms and diagnostic statuses,
- exchange data with PLC, SCADA, and MES systems.
Industrial Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converters ensure reliable communication,
even in systems with a high number of devices and strict real-time requirements.
Where are Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converters used?
The Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter is used
wherever existing Modbus TCP devices must be integrated
into modern EtherCAT-based control systems.
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Machines and production lines: integration of controllers,
I/O modules, drives, and measurement devices using Modbus TCP with EtherCAT PLCs.
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Retrofit and modernization projects: connecting existing
Ethernet-based devices to new EtherCAT control platforms without replacement.
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Energy and utility monitoring: energy meters,
power quality analyzers, and monitoring systems integrated into EtherCAT networks.
-
Industrial infrastructure: integration of auxiliary
and technical systems into centralized EtherCAT control architectures.
Such solutions are widely used in industrial plants across Europe,
where mixed communication protocols are common in automation systems.
What features should an industrial Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter provide?
When selecting an industrial Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter,
it is important to consider features that directly affect system reliability:
- support for multiple Modbus TCP devices simultaneously,
- flexible register and process data mapping,
- configurable cycle times and communication timeouts,
- advanced diagnostics and error reporting,
- industrial housing with DIN-rail mounting,
- stable 24/7 operation in industrial environments.
A properly selected Modbus TCP to EtherCAT converter
enables secure system integration,
shortens commissioning time,
and reduces the risk of downtime in industrial automation projects.
