A New Python-based Modbus Tool for Data Engineers

In today's rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the integration of traditional field-bus systems with modern IoT platforms is becoming increasingly essential. For data engineers and software developers, tools that facilitate this integration are invaluable. One such tool is Modpoll, a command-line utility designed to bridge Modbus devices with MQTT brokers, streamlining data collection and transmission processes.

GitHub Repo: https://github.com/gavinying/modpoll

Modpoll

Modpoll is a versatile command-line tool that supports various Modbus protocols, including RTU, TCP, and UDP. It enables users to poll data from multiple Modbus devices and either log it locally or publish it to an MQTT broker. This functionality is particularly beneficial for remote monitoring, troubleshooting, and integrating legacy systems with modern data platforms.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Modbus Support: Modpoll is compatible with Modbus RTU, TCP, and UDP protocols, ensuring broad applicability across different devices.
• Efficient Data Polling: It allows simultaneous polling from multiple Modbus devices, facilitating efficient data collection.
• Seamless MQTT Integration: By publishing data to MQTT brokers, Modpoll enables real-time data transmission to cloud services or other applications.
• Flexible Data Logging: Users can opt to log data locally for subsequent analysis, aiding in troubleshooting and system optimization.
• Docker Support: Modpoll offers Docker images for streamlined deployment, enhancing portability and ease of use.

Getting Started

Modpoll can be installed using Python's package manager - pip or pipx:

pip install modpoll        

For Modbus-RTU communication, include the pyserial library:

pip install 'modpoll[serial]'        

Alternatively, Modpoll is available as a Docker image:

docker run --rm topmaker/modpoll        

This command displays the tool's version by default.

Typical Uses

Modpoll is a versatile tool with a range of practical uses for data engineers and system developers. Here are some typical scenarios where Modpoll shines:

1. Troubleshooting Modbus Device: Modpoll can act as a diagnostic tool to test communication with Modbus devices directly. By polling data and observing responses, engineers can quickly verify device functionality, identify connectivity issues, and debug problems without writing custom code for low-level protocol handling.
2. Ad-hoc Data Collection On-Site: When conducting site surveys or performing maintenance, Modpoll can be used to gather real-time data from Modbus devices. This is especially useful for short-term data analysis or to validate device outputs in live environments.
3. Field Gateway for Modbus to MQTT: Modpoll can serve as a lightweight field gateway to collect data from Modbus devices and forward it to a remote MQTT broker. This setup bridges traditional industrial devices with modern IoT platforms, enabling real-time monitoring and analysis from remote locations.

Conclusion

For data engineers and system developers working with industrial systems, Modpoll offers a powerful solution to bridge the gap between Modbus devices and new IoT data platforms. Its versatility, ease of use, and robust feature set make it an essential tool for modern industrial data integration.

To explore Modpoll further and access detailed documentation, visit the Modpoll GitHub repository.