Schneider TSXETG3021 Ethernet Gateway

The Schneider TSXETG3021 is a compact Ethernet gateway designed for the TSX Micro and Quantum families of programmable logic controllers. This module provides a bridge between the PLC’s native Modbus serial communication (RS‑232/RS‑485) and an Ethernet network running the Modbus TCP/IP protocol. This enables remote programming, data acquisition, and supervisory control over standard factory Ethernet infrastructures, eliminating the need for proprietary cabling and simplifying integration with higher‑level systems.

The gateway features a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port (RJ45) and one serial port configurable for Modbus RTU or ASCII. It includes a built‑in web server for diagnostics and configuration, accessible via a standard web browser. The TSXETG3021 supports both client and server roles, allowing it to initiate data exchanges with remote devices or respond to requests from a SCADA host. Its compact form factor allows DIN‑rail mounting in control cabinets.

Technical Specifications

• Ethernet interface: 10/100BASE‑TX (auto‑negotiation, auto‑MDIX)

• Serial interface: RS‑232 or RS‑485 (software selectable), Modbus RTU/ASCII

• Protocols: Modbus TCP, Modbus RTU, Modbus ASCII, HTTP (for configuration)

• Number of concurrent Modbus TCP connections: Up to 8

• Serial baud rates: 300 to 115.2 kbps

• Data format: 7/8 data bits, 1/2 stop bits, parity none/even/odd

• Web server: Built‑in for diagnostics, configuration, and firmware upgrade

• Power supply: 24 V DC (18‑30 V DC), 200 mA

• Configuration: Via web interface or tool software

• Mounting: DIN‑rail (35 mm)

• Operating temperature: 0°C to +60°C

• Dimensions: 99 x 65 x 35 mm

• Certifications: CE, UL, RoHS

Functional Capabilities

• Protocol conversion: Translates Modbus TCP requests from the Ethernet side into Modbus RTU commands on the serial side, and vice versa.

• Automatic device discovery: The gateway can scan the serial bus and detect connected Modbus slave devices, simplifying configuration.

• Diagnostic webpage: Provides real‑time connection status, error counters, and serial port statistics.

• Firmware upgradable: New firmware can be uploaded via the Ethernet port to enhance features or fix issues.

Typical Integration Scenarios

• Connecting legacy PLCs: Enabling older Modbus serial PLCs to participate in a modern Ethernet‑based control system.

• SCADA connectivity: Linking a TSX PLC to a SCADA system (e.g., Wonderware, Citect) via Modbus TCP.

• Remote maintenance: Allowing remote engineers to access the PLC for programming and troubleshooting over the company network.

• Multi‑device integration: Aggregating data from multiple Modbus serial devices (drives, meters, instruments) and making it available on Ethernet.

Configuration and Installation

Set up the TSXETG3021 by connecting to its web interface using the factory default IP address. Configure the Ethernet IP address, subnet mask, and gateway. Then set the serial parameters (baud rate, parity, stop bits) to match the PLC’s settings. Map the serial device’s Modbus slave address and define the data points (registers) to be exposed over Ethernet. The gateway can be configured to either poll the serial devices periodically (master mode) or wait for Ethernet requests (slave mode). Mount the gateway on a DIN rail, apply 24 V DC power, and connect both network and serial cables. A LED status panel indicates power, Ethernet link, and serial activity.

Compliance

The TSXETG3021 is CE marked and UL listed. It complies with EN 61000‑6‑2 (industrial immunity) and EN 61000‑6‑4 (emissions) standards, and is RoHS compliant.

Conclusion

The Schneider TSXETG3021 Ethernet gateway offers a simple, cost‑effective way to bridge Modbus serial devices to Ethernet networks. Its web‑based configuration, robust protocol conversion, and compact design make it an ideal solution for integrating older PLCs into modern industrial IoT architectures.