SLM-MX

SLM-MX#

The SLM-MX is a Modbus TCP device designed to map up to 8 connected slots into a single register table.

It is built for quick, intuitive, and expandable configuration, making it adaptable to a wide range of applications with minimal initial setup effort.

Getting Started#

1. Powering Up and Network Connection#

  • Connect the SLM-MX to a power source.

  • Use an Ethernet cable to link the device to your network.

  • On first boot, DHCP is enabled by default, allowing the device to automatically obtain an IP address.

2. Discovering the Device#

  • Open the configuration tool and scan for available devices. See more information in scanning for devices page.

  • The SLM-MX should appear in the scanned device list.

  • Select and connect to the device.

  • The main menu will display all physically connected slots.

3. Device Status and LED Indicators#

  • Upon initial power-up, the SLM-MX LEDs will indicate that the device is awaiting configuration (see LED behavior details here).

  • Once configured using the configuration tool, the LED behavior will change, and all Modbus register addresses will become fully accessible.

Device Initialization#

Please download the latest version of the configurator tool to initialize the device.

Use the configuration tool to initialize the device.

Network Configuration#

Note

Important Setup Requirements:

Connect the RJ-45 (ethernet) cable to the device and network before powering up for optimal network discovery.

Default Network Behavior#

  • DHCP is enabled by default - the SLM-MX will automatically obtain an IP address from the network on power up

  • We recommend configuring a static IP address for the SLM-MX and storing this IP address for future connections after the initial setup

DHCP Fallback (APIPA)#

If DHCP fails, the device will default to an APIPA (Automatic Private IP Addressing) fallback address of 169.254.10.10.

To connect when using APIPA:

  • Connect the SLM-MX to your local subnet—either directly to your computer’s ethernet port or through a switch that is isolated from the external network

  • Manually enter the IP address 169.254.10.10 into the configurator software for initial setup

  • See APIPA manual connection for detailed instructions

Security Considerations#

Warning

Network Security

The SLM-MX communicates using Modbus TCP, an industrial protocol designed for reliable operation in trusted networks. For secure deployment:

  • Deploy the device on a secure, isolated network segment

  • Use firewalls and access controls to restrict network access as needed

  • Follow your organization’s industrial network security policies

  • Consult with your IT team for remote access requirements

These practices help ensure reliable and secure operation in industrial environments.

See also#

1. Led Status#

Describe the behavior and control of LED indicators, and how they reflect various system statuses and events.

2. Factory Reset#

Explain the process for restoring the device to factory settings, detailing the conditions and actions involved in a reset.

3. Firmware Update#

Cover the mechanism for updating the firmware—from data reception and validation to writing to flash and finalizing the update.

4. Slot Mismatch#

Detail the detection and handling of discrepancies between the configured I/O slots and the actual hardware slots.

5. Modbus Watchdog#

Describe the Modbus watchdog mechanism that monitors communication integrity and triggers safety measures upon timeout.

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