Modbus TCP/IP is an industrial communication protocol that uses the Modbus messaging structure over standard Ethernet and TCP/IP networks. It enables industrial devices such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, meters, drives, and supervisory systems to exchange data using existing network infrastructure. Compared with serial-based Modbus communication, Modbus TCP/IP supports Ethernet connectivity and can provide communication across larger and more flexible networked environments.
For example, a manufacturing plant can use Modbus TCP/IP to connect PLCs with energy meters, motor controllers, sensors, and SCADA systems over an Ethernet network. A supervisory application can request measurements from a device, while controllers can receive commands or configuration values through the same communication system. Modbus TCP/IP is widely used in industrial automation, building management, energy monitoring, water treatment, and other applications where reliable communication between networked industrial equipment is required.
