Connecting to an SCHNEIDER PLC
Schneider Electric Remote Connection Guide
Hubbox Connect series devices provide secure global access to Schneider Electric Modicon PLCs, Magelis/Harmony HMIs, and Altivar drive systems. This guide explains how to connect to your systems via EcoStruxure Machine Expert (SoMachine) and Control Expert.
EcoStruxure Expert
Hubbox VPN
Tunnel
Tunnel
Modicon PLC
(M2xx / M340 / M580)
(M2xx / M340 / M580)
Harmony
HMI Panel
HMI Panel
Connection and Configuration Steps
- VPN Activation: Launch the Hubbox Desktop Client and establish a connection for the relevant device. Ensure the VPN adapter is active.
- Gateway Management: In EcoStruxure Machine Expert, navigate to the "Communication Settings" tab. Add a "Gateway" by entering your PLC's IP address.
- IP Addressing: Set your PLC's local IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.50) as the target. When accessing via Hubbox, direct IP should be preferred over "Fast Device Replacement" or "Node Name".
- Device Selection: Select the correct PLC from the listed devices and click the "Set as Active Path" button.
- Going Online: Click the "Login" button to switch your project to online mode.
Technical Tip: Ensure that the "Gateway" software is listening to the Hubbox VPN adapter during remote connection. If a connection cannot be established, you may need to check the "Static Remote Connection" settings via the Gateway Management Console.
Supported Schneider Software and Models
| Software Group | Supported Models | Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| EcoStruxure Machine Expert | Modicon M221, M241, M251, M258, M262 | Machine Expert / Modbus TCP |
| Control Expert (Unity Pro) | Modicon M340, M580, Premium, Quantum | Modbus TCP / UMAS |
| Vijeo Designer / Operator Terminal | Magelis, Harmony GTO/GTU/GK/STU Series | TCP/IP |
| SoMove | Altivar (ATV) Drives, Lexium Servos | Modbus TCP |
Troubleshooting & Cybersecurity
If cybersecurity settings are active on Schneider PLCs, certificate validation may be required over the remote connection. If you receive a "Communication Error," ensure that the Hubbox IP range is permitted in the "Access Control List (ACL)" settings within the PLC.
Warning: When using SoMachine Basic for devices like the M221, defining the PLC's "Gateway" address as the Hubbox IP address in the Ethernet tab ensures that packets from remote networks are correctly returned.
