DigiRail Connect is a versatile I/O module for expanding almost any brand of automation system — universal IO expansion for PLC-based control systems, remote IO over Modbus RTU or Modbus TCP, a combination of different IO types in one module, suitable for DACS, SCADA and data logging applications, with free configuration and testing software, gateway mode (Modbus TCP to Modbus RTU), and a watchdog safe-state on comms failure.
Simple and rapid expansion of the number of inputs and outputs on almost any control or automation system, with digital inputs (PNP, NPN or dry contact, configurable count feature), digital outputs (PNP 0.5A, configurable pulse feature), analogue inputs (thermocouples, PT100/1000, 0-5V, 0-10V and 4-20mA), and analogue outputs (0-20mA, 4-20mA or 0-10V).
DigiRail Connect functions as a slave device on an existing Modbus RTU network using the built-in RS485 terminals, and can also operate as a Modbus TCP Server via the built-in Ethernet port. All Connect models come with Ethernet, Micro USB and RS485 for complete connectivity.
DigiRail Connect offers a mixture of signal IO, a greater number of channels, and connection possibilities compared to the standard Novus DigiRail modules. Software configuration and IO testing is fast and simple with free NXperience software.
There are 4 choices of module which complete the range. The RAMIX modules are a rich analogue mix available with digital or relay outputs. The DMIX modules are conventional digital inputs with a choice of digital or relay outputs:
8811611440 DigiRail Connect (RAMIX 2AI / 2AO / 4DI / 2RL ETH)
8811611420 DigiRail Connect (RAMIX 2AI / 2AO / 4DI / 3DO ETH)
8811612440 DigiRail Connect (DMIX 8DI / 4RL ETH)
8811612420 DigiRail Connect (DMIX 8DI / 8DO ETH)
Modbus TCP to RTU Gateway
This model can be used as a transparent gateway with no mapping of registers required. It's suitable for reading/writing registers on RTU Slaves wired to the RS485 terminals — simply communicate via Modbus TCP and the module automatically translates commands, allowing PLCs with Ethernet to communicate with devices such as temperature controllers, instruments and meters.
Bringing Industry 4.0 to the rail level, DigiRail Connect's connectivity allows it to be used as a slave Modbus RTU device in RS485 networks or a server Modbus TCP device under an Ethernet network. Specially designed for harsh environments, it complies with the main EMC and EMI standards, providing robustness and reliability for industrial applications.
✅ 3 Year Manufacturer Warranty — backed by our UK-based technical support
Novus DigiRail Connect Datasheet Download
Novus DigiRail Connect Manual Download
Technical Details
Inputs: RAMIX 4 digital and 2 analogue (isolated). DMIX 8 digital
Outputs: RAMIX 3 digital or 2 relay and 2 analogue (isolated). DMIX 4 relays or 8 digital
Analogue signals: Thermocouples J, K, T, N, E, R, S and B; Pt100, Pt1000, NTC; 0-60mV, 0-5V, 0-10V, 0-20mA, 4-20mA
Digital output: max load current 200mA, short circuit current 70mA, max switching voltage 30Vdc, min switching voltage 6Vdc
Relay output: type SPST-NO and SPDT, max load current 3A (SPST) / 6A (SPDT), switching voltage 250Vac, suitable for resistive loads
Analogue channel resolution: inputs 16 bits (65000 levels), outputs 12 bits
Communication interface: USB, Ethernet 10/100 Mb/s (IEEE 802.3u), RS485. Software: NXperience (via USB)
Power supply: 10-36 Vdc. Max consumption 5W, typical 20mA
Operating conditions: -20 to 60°C, 5-95% RH non-condensing. Enclosure: ABS+PC
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between RAMIX and DMIX models?
RAMIX offers a richer analogue mix (thermocouples, Pt100, voltage/current) alongside digital I/O; DMIX is purely digital inputs with a choice of relay or digital outputs.
Can this bridge RS485 devices onto an Ethernet network?
Yes — as a transparent Modbus TCP to RTU gateway, it lets Ethernet-equipped PLCs communicate with RS485-only field devices with no register mapping required.
What happens if the comms connection fails?
The built-in watchdog puts outputs into a safe state on comms failure, protecting connected equipment.
Industry Applications
- PLC I/O Expansion — adds analogue and digital channels to almost any brand of automation system.
- SCADA & Data Logging — rich mixed I/O suits data acquisition and control applications.
- Legacy Device Integration — bridges RS485-only field devices onto an Ethernet/Modbus TCP network.