LumenRadio W-Modbus Offers Cable-Free Modbus RTU System for Building Automation

LumenRadio has recently launched the W-Modbus solution, which offers a wireless Modbus RTU system, designed to replace traditional Modbus RTU cables. It is based on Nordic’s nRF52840 SoC, connects up to 100 nodes, includes a 100mW power amplifier, and supports Bluetooth LE for smartphone connectivity. By using their MiraMesh wireless mesh topology, W-Modbus ensures low latency communication while extending network range, making it suitable for installations across entire buildings. The Modbus RTU standard is maintained by this system, making it suitable for industrial environments where wired setups are challenging. W-Modbus modules, devices, and development kits support flexible, scalable setups for various automation needs. In industrial automation, building management, and applications requiring reliable, wireless data transmission over extended distances, it is commonly used for wireless data transmission.

The company provides two options for this module, one is the ‘W-Modbus OEM Module‘ that accommodates a single Modbus client, and the other is the ‘W-Modbus PRO OEM Module‘ capable of supporting up to sixteen clients. Network reliability and scalability for industrial use are enhanced by both versions through self-healing, self-organizing mesh protocols. Users are also enabled to monitor and troubleshoot remotely through smartphone connectivity.

LumenRadio’s Wireless Modbus module with RTU system specifications:

• SoC: Nordic Semiconductor nRF52840
  • CPU: 32-bit Cortex-M4 core with FPU @ 64 MHz
• Variants:
  • W-Modbus OEM Module: Supports 1 Modbus client
  • W-Modbus PRO OEM Module: Supports up to 16 Modbus clients
• Network Topology:
  • Self-healing
  • self-organizing mesh protocol
• Connectivity:
  • Wireless Modbus RTU (Frequency band – 2.45 GHz, ISM band 2400-2483 MHz)
  • Bluetooth 5.4 (BLE, Bluetooth mesh, Thread, NFC, and Zigbee)
  • Max 20 dBm Output (ERP)
• Servers:
  • 1 Server to 1 W-Modbus Module
  • 100 Servers to 1 Client for the W-Modbus PRO module
• Transmission Power: 100mW with integrated power amplifier
• Node Capacity: Connects up to 100 nodes
• Misc: U.FL/IPEX external antenna connector
• Features:
  • Cognitive Coexistence
  • Firmware upgradeable via BLE
• Dimensions: 33.5 x 18.5 mm

The Modbus RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) is a binary communication protocol widely used in industrial automation for data transmission over serial lines like RS-232 or RS-485. Common in setups where a master device (e.g., PLC or SCADA) communicates with slave devices (sensors, controllers), Modbus RTU is valued for its simplicity, efficiency, and compatibility in applications such as manufacturing, HVAC, and building management.

LumenRadio also states that W-Modbus products are powered by their MiraOS and MiraMesh technology, which provide patented features like quick installation, high reliability, and extended range. Applications worldwide widely adopt MiraOS, including building automation, HVAC control, lighting, and industrial sensor networks. An embedded operating system for wireless devices, supporting self-healing, self-organizing mesh networks for reliable communication in challenging environments, is MiraOS. MiraMesh, built on MiraOS, is the mesh networking protocol enabling these connections.

Additionally, a development kit for the W-Modbus module that streamlines evaluation and prototyping is offered by the company. The kit includes two W-Modbus devices, a development board with USB or pin header power options, an RS485 interface, and SPI/UART management. It also comes with a shield, five OEM modules, and three types of antennas (patch, dome, and omnidirectional) for various range needs. Everything necessary for easy integration and testing is provided by this setup. Additional details are available in their documentation and Nordic Semi’s press release.

Previously, we have not written anything about wireless Modbus RTU systems, but we have covered some nRF52840-based products including the Nordic Bluetooth Development board, Sparkfun’s Micromod, the SGW1011 Modules, and many more. Feel free to check those out, if you are interested in this topic.

Currently, pricing for the W-Modbus and W-Modbus PRO modules, as well as the development kit, is not listed. For pricing details, it’s best to reach out directly to their sales team. Additional information can also be found on the product page.

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