Modular I/O System

What is MFlex?

What is MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Lite?

The MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Lite is a non-programmable, multi-protocol gateway from the modular MFlex I/O system family. It serves purely as a gateway for decentralized fieldbus or Ethernet-based I/O stations and connects the modular MFlex system to Ethernet networks—without its own PLC functionality or programmability.

As a Lite version, it offers excellent value for money and is specifically designed for applications where no local logic is required, but only a reliable, simple connection to higher levels.

Key features and benefits of the MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Lite:

  • Multi-protocol capability: Simultaneously supports PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP (automatic protocol detection and switching)
  • Device type: Gateway (no integrated controller/PLC), ideal as an interface between MFlex I/O modules and the higher-level MVisio
  • Modular design: Can be combined with digital/analog I/O modules, bus converters, and other MFlex modules
  • Integrated power supply for the gateway and other connected modules
  • Connections: 2 × RJ45 for Ethernet (with integrated switch for daisy-chain topologies), push-in terminals for system and fieldbus power supply.
  • Quick installation: Push-in technology, simple configuration
  • Diagnostics: LEDs for power supply, bus status, and errors
  • Applications: e.g., mechanical engineering, packaging, intralogistics, process automation – wherever modular, decentralized I/O connections to Ethernet networks are required without local intelligence (e.g., as a cost-effective alternative to programmable gateways such as the MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Pro).

 

What is MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Pro?

The MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Pro is a programmable gateway from the modular MFlex product family. It serves as an intelligent gateway for decentralized fieldbus or Ethernet-based I/O stations and can also be operated as a compact, standalone PLC.

As part of the MFlex series, the MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Pro is a multi-protocol gateway for PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP. It enables local logic, data processing, and decentralized automation.

Typical features and benefits of the MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Pro:

  • Programmable with CODESYS 3 (modern IEC 61131-3-compliant environment: Ladder, FBD, Structured Text, etc.).
  • Multiprotocol capability: PROFINET device, EtherNet/IP adapter, Modbus TCP master/slave – flexible in heterogeneous networks
  • Modular design: Can be combined with digital/analog I/O modules, bus converters, and other MFlex modules
  • Integrated power supply for the gateway and connected MFlex modules
  • Quick installation: Push-in terminals, simple configuration
  • High flexibility: As a standalone PLC for small machines or as a decentralized node with pre-processing in large plants
  • Diagnostics and programming: Via Ethernet interface with CODESYS environment
  • Applications: e.g., mechanical engineering, packaging, process automation, retrofit projects – wherever modular I/O with local intelligence and Ethernet connectivity is required.

What are modular MFlex modules?

The modular MFlex modules are cost-effective digital and analog input/output modules, as well as many other variants from the modular MFlex I/O system family. They expand the MFlex system with extremely space-saving and affordable I/O modules featuring integrated connection technology—ideal for applications requiring a high number of channels with minimal space requirements and low costs.

These modules are compatible with all MFlex gateways, such as MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Pro or MFlex-Com-Ethernet-Lite, and combine electronics and connection technology in a compact housing. They are mounted as modules (approx. 13 mm wide) on the DIN rail and are wired without tools using push-in spring terminals.

Typical examples of MFlex modules:

  • MFlex-digi-In-8: 8 digital inputs, 24 V DC, PNP, fieldbus-independent, push-in connectors, IP20 protection rating, extremely compact (approx. 13 mm wide for 8 channels). Ideal for sensors, switches, pushbuttons, etc. – high signal density at a low price per channel.
  • MFlex-digi-Out-16: 16 digital outputs, 24 V DC, PNP, max. 0.5 A per channel, fieldbus-independent, push-in connectors, IP20. Perfect for actuators, valves, lamps, relays – up to 16 channels in a width of only approx. 13 mm.

Advantages of the modular MFlex modules:

  • Cost-effective: Low price per channel, ideal solution for standard applications, and modularly expandable
  • Easy to use: Push-in technology (tool-free), integrated connectors
  • Flexibility: Fully compatible with all MFlex gateways and other MFlex modules
  • Applications: Mechanical engineering, packaging, intralogistics, process automation, retrofitting – wherever many simple inputs/outputs are needed in a decentralized or compact configuration.
  • Other common variants:
  • MFlex-digi-In-16: 16 digital inputs, PNP
  • MFlex-digi-Out-8: 8 digital outputs, PNP
  • MFlex-digi-Out-16: 16 digital outputs, NPN
  • MFlex-ana-In-8: 8 analog inputs
  • MFlex-ana-Out-4: 4 analog outputs
  • MFlex-2Count/Enc-2PWM-Out: 2 counter/encoder channels
  • 2 PWM outputs
  • MFlex-digi-Out-2-Relais: 2 digital relay outputs
  • MFlex-ana-In-2-Pt&Ni: 2 analog inputs for Pt&Ni sensors
  • MVisio-IO-D16: 16 universal digital channels
  • MFlex-ana-In-4-TC: 4 analog inputs-Thermocouple Inputs
  • Many other variants available upon request

What is MVisio I/O?

MVisio I/O is a multifunctional plug-in I/O module that serves as an optional expansion for the MVisio HMI series (MVisio Pro 5 and 7).

It is a compact expansion module that plugs directly into the back of the MVisio and adds physical inputs and outputs to the HMI. This makes the MVisio HMI an even more flexible solution for visualization, operation, and simple control—often in combination with an integrated PLC function

Key technical features:

  • Connections and functions:
  • 20 digital inputs
  • 12 digital outputs
  • Encoder, frequency, and counter inputs
  • 8 analog inputs
  • 4 analog outputs
  • Pt100 and thermocouple inputs
  • Power supply: 24 V DC (powered by the HMI)
  • Mounting: Simple plug-in installation on the back of the MVisio HMI
  • Typical applications: Combined with MVisio HMI in machines such as packaging systems, cutting machines, filling systems, gluing systems, injection molding machines, and test benches—anywhere compact visualization plus direct I/O connectivity is required, without a separate control cabinet or additional controllers.
  • Advantages: Saves space and reduces cabling effort, enabling cost-effective, decentralized automation solutions with high flexibility. It supports the implementation of HMI + local I/O in a single device and transforms the MVisio 5 and 7 PRO into a multifunctional, independent HMI-PLC