Schneider Electric TSXCUSBMBP: Beyond the User Manual

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The Schneider Electric TSXCUSBMBP is a USB Modbus Plus Communications Adapter. In this guide, we will show you how to install the hardware, configure the driver software, and use the Modbus Plus network diagnostics features of the driver software.

Important: The least versions of the TSXCUSBMBP driver to run on Win Server 2012 R2 are driver versions 8.0 and 8.1.

The TSXCUSBMBP is designed to bridge the gap between a USB connection and the Modbus Plus network. It combines hardware and software together in one simple and single device. The module has its own Modbus Plus node address which can be set through the TSXCUSBMBP driver software. This module allows software applications using the serial Modbus RTU communications to connect on the high-speed Modbus Plus network, as well as provide diagnostic capabilities to the Modbus Plus network.

Most Win32 Applications that support serial Mdubus communications can use a Modicon TSXCUSBMBP to connect on a Modbus Plus network. A VSP (Virtual Serial Port) is what redirects communications from Concept, Unity, ProWorx32 and other programs to the TSXCUSBMBP communications adapter. After the VSP is installed, it will create one serial port with the port reference as defined in the module’s driver software. When configuring the Modbus application software, this port reference is selected as the serial port for the application to use. The routing table is used to associate Modbus Slave IDs with 5-byte Modbus Plus routing paths which allow the application software to communicate with any Modbus Plus device within range on the network.

The TSXCUSBMBP’s hardware consists of a box with a USB cable from one end (which connects to the PC) and a standard Modbus Plus DB9 connector on the other end (for the Modbus Plus network). Local signalling LEDs on the top cover of the device tell you the presence of power from the USB port and the state of the Modbus Plus network – no external power supply is required.

TSXCUSBMBP Installation

To install the TSXCUSBMBP, you will need the following:
– Windows XP Operating System with service pack 2, or Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 or greater.
– 1 MB of free disk space.
– Minimum of 256 MB of RAM.
– One free USB port or a USB Hub that supports USB 1.1 or greater.

If a previous version of the TSXCUSBMBP was installed, the VSP component of the driver must be manually uninstalled using Device Manager before a new version can be installed. After this, the new driver should be installed before connecting the new TSXCUSBMBP to the PC. After the new driver is installed, connect the TSXCUSBMBP and install using the New Hardware Wizard. After completing the instructions, you should see a message stating “Your new hardware is ready to use.” Restart your computer, and the device should be fully functional. If the driver starts up before the TSXCUSBMBP is connected, then it will be necessary to re-scan for adapters so the driver can detect it.

TSXCUSBMBP Configuration

To configure the module, you will need to do the following:

1. Configure the Modbus Plus Node Address
The communications adapter must be assigned a Modbus Plus node address to communicate on the network. Select “Settings” and then type the address in the appropriate box. When complete, hit “Save”.

2. Configure the Slave Response Timeout
The slave response timeout is used by the module each time it sends a request from an application out on the network to a slave device. Use the manual to determine the appropriate value that should be used with your system. Select “Settings” and then type the value in the appropriate box. When complete, hit “Save”.

3. Configure the Virtual Serial (COM) Port
To do this, select “Virtual Modbus Port.” Select the desired COM port from the list available. When complete, click “Save”.

If you experience any problems while configuring your adapter, please use the table below to determine the appropriate error code given by the LEDs, if applicable. As always, refer to the user manual for more complete information.

MRO Electric carries both New and Refurbished TSXCUSBMBP Communication Adapters. For more information on this module or to request a price quote, please call 800-691-8511 or email sales@mroelectric.com.