MODBUS CLIENT allows Q-SYS to interface with external Modbus Server devices over standard TCP/IP communication. This allows Q-SYS to receive inputs and control outputs of automation equipment that supports the Modbus over TCP protocol. This can greatly expand the IO capabilities of a Q-SYS system by allowing both digital and analog signals to be easily integrated into a design.

The plugin offers up to 999 each of Input Bits, Input Registers, Output Bits, and Output Registers offering a staggering number of control IO points – hundreds more than a typical control system. Inputs are polled from the Modbus Server Device up to 20 times per second, configurable in 50ms increments. Outputs are updated up to 30 times per second. All inputs and outputs have control pins that can be connected to other components in the design allowing for complex control capabilities.

Both Input and Output Bits are represented as toggle buttons for easy control pin wiring. Registers are represented as integer fields with possible values from 0 to 65,535, and as hexadecimal string fields with values from 0x0000 to 0xFFFF.

Each Input and Output in the plugin may be configured for any IO address and do not have to be sequential. Unused IO can be disabled to reduce clutter and confusion. IO may also be temporarily disabled while testing or commissioning is ongoing. This provides maximum flexibility for working with larger, more complex systems.

Outputs offer an “Override” feature which allows output values to be specified within the plugin UI and thus ignoring data from the control pin. When an Override is active, the provided value will be applied to the output allowing for easier system testing, commissioning, and temporary bypass.

Outputs also feature a "Sync" feature which allows them to be read back from the remote device and keeps Q-SYS synchronized with the actual output value. This is useful when the plugin must show the values that are changed by other external systems such as a PLC, BMS, or another control system.

Price: $400

File Type:   Encrypted Q-Sys Plugin (QPLUGX)
Current Version: 1.1.0
Release Date: March 21, 2023
Compatibility: Q-SYS Firmware v7.0.1 and up
Additional Information:
See the Plugin Guide for more information