Adding to the new protocol

Guide to Adding New Protocols in Node-RED

One of the greatest strengths of Node-RED is its ability to integrate thousands of different industrial protocols (such as BACnet, Siemens S7, Modbus, OPC-UA, etc.) into the system within minutes, thanks to the "Palette Manager" and extensive community support. When working on industrial devices like the Hubbox Connect X2, this method minimizes technical complexity.

1. Searching and Inspecting Protocols

Before adding a new protocol, it is best practice to check if a "node" package has already been created and verified by the community.

Library Access: Visit flows.nodered.org.
Search: Type the protocol you wish to use (e.g., S7, EtherNet/IP, Modbus) into the search bar.
Selection: Prioritize packages with high download counts and recent updates for better stability.

2. Installation via Palette Manager

This method allows you to install packages directly within the Node-RED editor without writing code or using a terminal.

Access the Menu: Click the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner of the editor.
Manage Palette: Select the Manage Palette option.
Install Tab: Switch to the Install tab at the top of the palette window.
Search and Select: Type the package name (e.g., node-red-contrib-modbus).
Installation: Click the Install button. Once finished, the new nodes will appear in your left-hand palette panel.

3. Configuration and Usage

Once installed, using the protocol follows the standard Node-RED workflow:

Drag and Drop: Drag the new nodes (e.g., "Modbus Read") onto the flow workspace.
Connection Settings: Double-click the node to configure the communication bridge.
Parameter Entry: Enter the IP Address, Port, Unit ID, and specific register addresses required by your hardware.

4. Advantages for Hubbox Connect X2 Users

Integrating protocols directly on the Hubbox Connect X2 enhances your edge computing capabilities:

Data Normalization: Enable communication between machines that speak different languages (e.g., Modbus to Siemens) in a single flow.
Secure Cloud Tunnels: Convert local protocol data into JSON and transmit it via Hubbox’s secure MQTT tunnels to your central dashboard.

Important Considerations:

Resources: Every package affects RAM/CPU. Uninstall unused nodes via the Palette Manager to maintain peak performance.
Port Access: Ensure that physical ports (Ethernet/USB) are not being contested by other services on the device.

For further technical support regarding Hubbox-specific integrations, contact: support@hubbox.io