Moxa TCC-100I Industrial Secure Communication & Protocol Conversion Gateway

The Moxa TCC-100I Industrial Secure Communication & Protocol Conversion Gateway is a robust solution designed to bridge diverse industrial networks, offering unparalleled security and reliability. This gateway excels by providing seamless protocol conversion between serial and Ethernet communications, crucial for modernizing legacy industrial systems. Key advantages include its industrial-grade design, ensuring operation in harsh environments, and its secure communication capabilities, protecting sensitive industrial data. Technical parameters highlight its support for a wide temperature range (-40 to 75°C), multiple serial port options (RS-232/422/485), and Ethernet connectivity (10/100 Mbps Auto MDI/MDIX). The TCC-100I is engineered to simplify integration and enhance operational efficiency in critical infrastructure.

Product Specifications

| Feature                     | Specification                                     |

| :-------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------ |

| Serial Interface            | 1 x RS-232/422/485 (DB9 male or terminal block)   |

| Ethernet Interface          | 1 x 10/100 Mbps Ethernet (RJ45)                   |

| Protocol Conversion         | Modbus TCP to Modbus RTU/ASCII, Serial to Ethernet |

| Security                    | SSH, SSL/TLS support for secure remote access     |

| Operating Temperature       | -40 to 75°C                                       |

| Input Power                 | 9-30 VDC                                          |

| Mounting                    | DIN-rail, Wall-mount                              |

| Dimensions                  | 52 x 104 x 23 mm                                  |

| Warranty                    | 5 years                                           |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa TCC-100I distinguishes itself in the industrial gateway market through its inherent security features and versatile protocol conversion capabilities. Unlike basic converters, the TCC-100I integrates SSH and SSL/TLS encryption, safeguarding data transmission over Ethernet against unauthorized access and cyber threats—a critical concern in increasingly connected industrial environments. Its ability to convert between Modbus TCP and Modbus RTU/ASCII, along with general serial-to-Ethernet protocols, makes it an ideal choice for integrating older serial-based devices into modern SCADA and IIoT platforms without costly hardware replacements. This blend of security, flexibility, and robust industrial design positions the TCC-100I as a premium solution for industries prioritizing data integrity and network modernization.

Key Application Scenarios

This gateway is pivotal in scenarios demanding secure and reliable data exchange between diverse industrial control systems. It is frequently deployed in power utilities to connect legacy protection relays and RTUs to centralized SCADA systems, ensuring secure data acquisition and command transmission. In manufacturing, the TCC-100I facilitates the integration of older machinery with serial interfaces into Ethernet-based production monitoring and control networks, enhancing efficiency and enabling predictive maintenance. Its rugged design makes it suitable for oil and gas operations, bridging the gap between remote wellhead sensors and central control rooms securely. Furthermore, it finds application in intelligent transportation systems for reliable communication with traffic control devices and in building automation for integrating various serial-based HVAC and security systems.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa TCC-100I into an industrial network is straightforward, leveraging its intuitive web-based configuration interface. For basic serial-to-Ethernet conversion, connect your serial device to the DB9 or terminal block port, ensuring correct RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 settings match your device. Connect the Ethernet port to your network via an RJ45 cable. Access the gateway's web console by entering its default IP address into a web browser and configure the desired serial port parameters (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits) and network settings (IP address, subnet mask). For Modbus protocol conversion, explicitly select Modbus TCP as the client or server and Modbus RTU/ASCII as the peer, defining slave IDs and Modbus function codes as required by your application. The DIN-rail mounting option simplifies installation in control cabinets.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Moxa TCC-100I involves careful initial configuration to prevent network conflicts and ensure data integrity. Always assign a unique IP address within your network's range and configure the correct subnet mask. To mitigate security risks, it is imperative to enable SSH or SSL/TLS encryption for remote management and data access, disabling default or weak passwords. Regularly update the gateway's firmware to the latest version available from Moxa to patch any potential security vulnerabilities. In case of communication failures, common troubleshooting steps include verifying physical connections, checking serial port configurations on both the gateway and the connected device, and ensuring the IP addresses and ports are correctly set in the network configuration. Consult the gateway's event logs via the web interface for detailed error messages, which can often pinpoint the source of the issue.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa TCC-100I offers significant scalability and long-term value by facilitating the modernization of existing industrial infrastructure. Its ability to act as a bridge allows organizations to gradually migrate serial devices to Ethernet and IP-based networks without immediate, large-scale replacements. This approach preserves investments in legacy equipment while enabling integration with newer IIoT platforms and cloud-based analytics solutions. The gateway's support for standard industrial protocols and its robust build quality ensure compatibility with a wide range of existing and future automation components. Furthermore, Moxa's commitment to firmware updates and long product lifecycles provides a reliable foundation for evolving industrial control systems, minimizing the need for frequent hardware refreshes and reducing total cost of ownership.

FAQs

1. What are the primary benefits of using the Moxa TCC-100I?

The Moxa TCC-100I offers secure protocol conversion between serial and Ethernet networks. It enhances connectivity for legacy devices and provides robust data protection.

It supports industrial-grade operation, featuring a wide temperature range for harsh environments. This ensures reliable performance in critical applications.

The gateway simplifies integration with modern IIoT platforms, bridging old and new technologies efficiently.

2. How do I configure the serial port settings on the TCC-100I?

Access the gateway via its web interface and navigate to the serial port configuration section. Select the correct interface (RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485) and set the baud rate, data bits, parity, and stop bits to match your connected device.

Ensure the physical wiring on the DB9 connector or terminal block adheres to the chosen serial standard. Incorrect wiring can lead to communication errors.

Verify these settings against the documentation of the serial device you are connecting to confirm accurate parameter alignment.

3. Can the TCC-100I convert Modbus RTU to Modbus TCP?

Yes, the Moxa TCC-100I is specifically designed for Modbus protocol conversion. It efficiently translates Modbus RTU/ASCII messages to Modbus TCP packets and vice versa.

This functionality allows serial Modbus devices to communicate seamlessly over an Ethernet network. It is crucial for integrating older PLCs or instruments into modern SCADA systems.

The configuration involves setting the gateway as a Modbus TCP server or client and defining the corresponding Modbus RTU/ASCII parameters on the serial side.

4. What security features does the TCC-100I include?

The TCC-100I incorporates advanced security protocols like SSH and SSL/TLS. These encrypt communication, protecting data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

It supports secure remote access, allowing engineers to manage and monitor the gateway and connected devices safely. This is vital for industrial control systems.

Implementing strong passwords and keeping firmware updated are essential practices to maximize the security benefits offered by the TCC-100I.

5. How is the TCC-100I powered and mounted in an industrial setting?

The gateway is powered by a wide range DC input (9-30 VDC), accommodating various industrial power supplies. This flexibility is key for diverse installations.

It supports DIN-rail mounting for easy integration into standard electrical control cabinets. Wall-mount kits are also typically available for alternative mounting needs.

Proper power supply selection and secure mounting are critical for reliable, long-term operation in demanding industrial environments.

6. What are the supported Ethernet speeds and connection types?

The Moxa TCC-100I features a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port with Auto MDI/MDIX capabilities. This allows for flexible network connections without needing specific crossover cables.

It auto-negotiates the optimal speed and duplex mode with connected network devices, ensuring efficient data transfer. This simplifies network setup.

This standard Ethernet interface ensures compatibility with most industrial Ethernet switches and network infrastructure.

7. Is the TCC-100I suitable for extreme temperature environments?

Yes, the TCC-100I is engineered for industrial use and boasts a wide operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C. This makes it ideal for demanding conditions.

Its robust design ensures reliable functionality in locations subject to significant temperature fluctuations, such as outdoor enclosures or process areas.

This extended temperature tolerance is a critical factor for applications in sectors like oil & gas, utilities, and transportation.

8. What types of serial devices can be connected to the TCC-100I?

You can connect a wide array of serial devices, including PLCs, sensors, meters, and older industrial instruments that utilize RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 communication protocols.

The gateway's selectable serial interfaces offer great flexibility in interfacing with diverse equipment found in automation systems. This makes it a versatile solution.

Ensure the serial parameters (baud rate, etc.) on your device precisely match the gateway's configuration for successful communication.

9. How does the TCC-100I contribute to Industrial IoT (IIoT) integration?

The TCC-100I acts as a vital bridge, enabling legacy serial devices to connect to Ethernet and IP networks. This is a fundamental step for IIoT adoption.

It allows data from older equipment to be collected, analyzed, and acted upon within modern IIoT platforms, facilitating smart manufacturing and predictive maintenance.

By providing secure connectivity, it ensures that even older assets can participate in a secure and data-driven IIoT ecosystem.

10. What is the warranty period for the Moxa TCC-100I?

Moxa typically offers a comprehensive 5-year warranty for the TCC-100I industrial gateway. This underscores the product's reliability and Moxa's commitment to quality.

This extended warranty period provides long-term peace of mind for users deploying the gateway in critical industrial applications. It minimizes unexpected replacement costs.

The warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures the product will perform as specified under normal operating conditions.