PLC Based communications via Modbus

This course outlines the fundamentals of the Modbus communication protocol.

Overview

Duration

2 Full Days

Classroom Based

Day 1: 9am-4.15pm

Day 2: 9am-4.15pm

Location

CELTEC

Unit 12A

M4 Business Park

Celbridge, Co. Kildare

W23 HCK2

Google Maps Link

Prior Knowledge

Experience in related industrial sectors would be beneficial for the learner. Learners on this programme will should wish to reactivate their career to upskill and reskill from non-related disciplines as well as upskilling those already in employment in related industrial sectors. There is an expectation that candidates will have obtained a minimum of Junior Certificate Level (NFQ Level 3)

Certification

KWETB Certificate of Completion.

Cost

This course is fully funded to those currently in employment under the Skills To Advance initiative.

Skills to Advance Initiative

This course is only available to those currently in employment and fully funded under the Skills to Advance initiative.

Skills to Advance is a national initiative that provides upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs undergoing change and to those currently employed in vulnerable sectors. Skills to Advance aims to equip employees with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to the changing job market. Working closely with small and medium-sized enterprises, Skills to Advance helps employers identify skills needs and invest in their workforce by providing subsidised education and training to staff.

Save Your Spot

June 2025

19 - 20 June 2025

CELTEC, Celbridge

Course Aim

The Modbus communication protocol is one of the most widely used methods for industrial automation and control systems. It enables reliable communication between devices such as PLCs, sensors, actuators, and HMIs. Modbus is fundamental in industries where real-time data acquisition, monitoring, and control are necessary. The protocol's simplicity, robustness, and flexibility make it ideal for connecting devices in a wide range of industrial applications, including manufacturing, water treatment, HVAC, and energy systems.

This course is 10% theory and 90% hands-on exercises, delivered over 2 days, ensuring participants learn through practical application in real-world scenarios.

Areas Covered Include:

Principles of Modbus communication protocol (RTU, ASCII, TCP)
Modbus master and slave configuration
Modbus addressing, function codes, and data types
Interfacing Modbus with PLCs and other industrial equipment, use of test simulation tools
Modbus protocol troubleshooting and diagnostics
Practical integration of Modbus in industrial systems
Modbus data exchange with real-time monitoring systems
Optimizing Modbus communication for efficient data transfer

The course uses practical exercises with real-life examples to demonstrate Modbus applications in an industrial automation environment. Participants will also learn how to integrate and troubleshoot Modbus communication in systems controlled by PLCs. These real-life scenarios can be tailored to mimic the learner’s area of employment.

Learning Outcomes

Learn how to

Develop a core competency in the Modbus protocol, understanding how it operates and how to deploy it
Gain hands-on experience with the practical configuration of Modbus communication between PLCs & field devices and the utilisation of test simulation tools
Learn how to troubleshoot Modbus communication and resolve common issues related to data transfer, addressing, and configuration errors
Understand how to optimize Modbus data exchange in automation systems for better performance and reliability
Learn how to develop and modify Modbus RTU/TCP programs for various industrial applications

Understand how

Modbus communication integrates into industrial systems, particularly how Modbus master and slave devices interact
To configure Modbus devices, assign addresses, and configure function codes for different devices
To diagnose and resolve communication issues between Modbus devices and connected systems

Know how to

Set up and configure Modbus RTU/TCP communication on PLCs and other field devices
Identify and resolve faults in Modbus communication and data transfer
Implement fault reduction strategies to optimize Modbus protocol performance

CELTEC (Celbridge Engineering Lab Training and Education Centre) in Co. Kildare is a facility focused on advanced manufacturing and technical education. It offers specialised training in areas like robotics, industrial systems, additive manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 technologies.

The center emphasises hands-on learning through state-of-the-art equipment, including robotics, cobotics, and virtual reality systems, and fosters expertise in areas like precision engineering and pharmaceutical processes.

The facility includes modern classrooms equipped with multimedia learning tools and advanced laboratories for engineering and industrial training. CELTEC is part of the Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board's initiatives and provides traineeships and skill development programs tailored for employment in technical and manufacturing roles. Courses often integrate classroom instruction with online, blended, and immersive learning technologies