Lynxspring’s Helixx™ framework embedded on the Onyxx MB311 Bridge has revolutionized the construction, implementation, and interaction of Modbus to BACnet network communication. Helixx takes Modbus to BACnet protocol translation to the next level by not only translating up to 2500 Modbus points to manageable BACnet points; it converts Modbus slave devices into virtual BACnet devices using virtual BACnet routing.
For every Modbus slave device that is added, Helixx creates a corresponding virtual BACnet device. Helixx ensures the virtual BACnet device always emulates the Modbus device it is bridging and safeguards the integrity of the BACnet network by automatically assigning a unique BACnet device instance/object ID to each virtual BACnet device used to identify it on the BACnet network.
Desired Modbus points are simply added under the Modbus slave device. Helixx automatically creates and maps the correct virtual BACnet object to its corresponding virtual BACnet device.
The Onyxx MB311 supports a maximum of 2500 Modbus points, 32 Modbus RTU slave devices without a repeater or up to 246 with repeaters, 246 Modbus TCP slave devices per network segment, or a combination thereof. With Helixx onboard, third-party software is not needed to access and configure the Onyxx MB311 Bridge. An operator simply connects to the Onyxx MB311 Bridge utilizing a standard Internet browser. Helixx presents the operator with all of the configuration screens, documentation, device settings, help, and software tools needed to complete a successful project.
The Onyxx MB311 is connected to a network utilizing the 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port with auto-negotiation allowing for the use of either a Cat-5 straight-through cable or a crossover cable.
The optically-isolated, transient protected RS-485 serial port located on the Onyxx MB311 Bridge allows for easy installation of either 2-wire (+ and -) or 3-wire (+, -, and Shield) RS-485 networks utilizing the 3-screw removable terminal block.
Modbus TCP and BACnet IP communication occur simultaneously through the Ethernet port. Once the Onyxx MB311 Bridge is connected to a network, Modbus TCP requests are sent on registered port 502 and BACnet IP communication occurs through UDP port 0xBAC0 (decimal 47808). Both the Modbus TCP and BACnet IP ports can be modified to support the project’s needs.