Rockwell Prosoft MVI56-101M Master Communication Module

Product Overview

The ProSoft MVI56-101M is an IEC 60870-5-101 Master Communication Module for the Rockwell Automation ControlLogix platform. It enables ControlLogix PACs to communicate as IEC 60870-5-101 masters with remote terminal units (RTUs), intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), and substation automation equipment over serial communication links. Compliant with the global standard for power utility telecontrol, this module is essential for SCADA integration in electrical utility and energy management applications.

Key Specifications

• Part Number: MVI56-101M
• Product Type: IEC 60870-5-101 Master Serial Module
• Series: ProSoft MVI56 for ControlLogix
• Platform: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix 1756 chassis
• Protocol: IEC 60870-5-101 (Master, balanced and unbalanced)
• Serial Ports: 2 × RS-232/RS-485 (software selectable)
• Baud Rates: 300 bps to 64 kbps
• Data Link Address: 1 to 65534
• Common Address: 1 to 65534
• Information Objects: Single-point, double-point, measured value, integrated total, step position
• Backplane Current: 800 mA @ 5VDC
• Configuration: ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C

Features & Benefits

• IEC 60870-5-101 Compliant: Fully implements the international standard for power system telecontrol
• Dual Serial Ports: Two independent channels support redundant communication paths or multiple RTU networks
• Balanced & Unbalanced: Supports both transmission modes for compatibility with diverse RTU equipment
• Comprehensive ASDU Support: Handles all standard information objects including single commands, setpoints, and time synchronization
• Time Synchronization: Supports clock synchronization commands (C_CS ACT) for event timestamp alignment
• Direct Tag Mapping: IEC 101 data points map directly to ControlLogix tags for seamless SCADA integration

Applications

• Electrical utility SCADA with remote substation RTUs
• Renewable energy farm monitoring (wind, solar) with IEC 101-compliant controllers
• Water treatment plant telemetry over serial radio or fiber modems
• Railway signaling and traction power monitoring

Installation Guide

1. Power Down: Turn OFF ControlLogix rack power before installing the MVI56-101M
2. Slot Selection: Insert the module into any available slot on the 1756 chassis
3. Serial Connection: Connect RS-232 or RS-485 cables to the serial ports based on RTU requirements
4. Studio 5000 Setup: Add the module to your project and configure the generic module profile
5. PCB Configuration: Define data link addresses, common addresses, ASDU types, and information object addresses
6. RTU Mapping: Map IEC 101 information objects to ControlLogix controller tags
7. Time Sync: Enable clock synchronization if event timestamping is required by your SCADA
8. Commissioning: Verify communication using the PCB diagnostic monitor and confirm data exchange with RTUs

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between IEC 60870-5-101 and IEC 60870-5-104?
A: IEC 101 operates over serial communication (RS-232/485), while IEC 104 uses TCP/IP over Ethernet. The MVI56-101M is for serial IEC 101 only. For Ethernet IEC 104, consider MVI56-104M.

Q: Can this module operate as an IEC 101 slave?
A: The MVI56-101M is a Master module. For Slave functionality, consult ProSoft for availability or alternative solutions.

Q: Is this suitable for protective relay communication?
A: While IEC 101 is primarily for SCADA telecontrol, it can exchange data with protective relays supporting IEC 101 protocol. For dedicated relay protocols (IEC 61850), consider MVI56E-61850S.

Q: What cable distance is supported?
A: RS-232 supports up to 15 meters; RS-485 supports up to 1,200 meters. Use fiber modems or radio links for longer distances.

Selection Tips

• Verify your RTUs support IEC 60870-5-101 and confirm their data link address range
• For redundant serial paths, use both ports with independent communication channels
• Ensure your serial cables are properly shielded and grounded for substation EMI immunity
• Plan information object address mapping to avoid overlaps with existing SCADA databases
• Consider the XT variant for outdoor cabinet installations subject to temperature extremes