Communication Protocol Converters & Gateways
From ModbusRTU to IEC 61850 — unlock new potential with state-of-the-art protocol conversionWhat is a Protocol Gateway?
Protocol gateways, also known as protocol converters or translators, are small devices that mainly function as translators between various protocols and physical layers (i.e. Ethernet and serial lines). They allow to control and communicate with machinery such as intelligent electronic devices, sensors and computers in order to operate industrial facilities such as dams, substations, power plants, and water processing facilities. Since numerous devices participate in one process or function, but often come from different vendors, communication layers and possibly application areas, the devices are not able to communicate with each other and a protocol converter is required to convert the data into the right format. Even though industrial automation systems have been transitioning from proprietary protocols towards standard communication protocols, the growing complexity of the supervised systems has kept gateways as central element in all kinds of communication networks.
Furthermore, the ongoing trend of introducing IoT in industrial environments presents further interoperability challenges due to the bridge between serial-based operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), commonly using Ethernet, Wifi or GPRS networks.
Advantages of Protocol Gateways by iGrid T&D
- High-end at low cost - thanks to our powerful software core, even our smallest devices, i.e. the iGWlite, will provide all protocol capabilities your device or network needs
- High-standard multi-layer security measures from access control to data encryption
- All devices and software solutions provide secured multi-layer protocol conversion between all protocols of the iGrid protocol suite and between multiple communication media, such as Ethernet, Serial or GPRS
- Securely collect and aggregate data from multi-vendor IEDs with a single gateway or SCADA system and convert it to any protocol you want.
- Strongly flexible, modular and scalable solutions, adaptable to any system requirements/ network topology
- Simple migration to IEC 61850 – use any iGrid product as client or server and map any protocol onto IEC 61850 MMS or IEC 61850 GOOSE (publisher/ subscriber), thus converting any old IED into an IEC 61850 device
- Diverse experience with IoT networks and web services combined with a strong IP suite support
- Collect and concentrate multi-vendor metering data and load curves through multiple protocols through IEC60870‑5–102, IEC 62056–21, Modbus or DLMS and transfer it to control centers
- Internal PLC based on IEC 61131–3 for signal processing, advanced automation functions and logical schemes
- Internal memory and advanced network redundancy based on RSTP, HSR and PRP (IEC 61850) for higher data reliability and maintenance work.
- High-precision time management based on PTP or NTP to prevent any data losses
Protocol Conversion and Network Gateways
One of the major challenges with communication networks in electric and industrial facilities is the integration of new substation technology in older networks, where old and new devices have to coexist and communicate with each other. Examples of this can be new control centers that have to communicate with old automation systems or newly installed intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), which must connect to old systems in the network or the control center.
Another common challenge is communication accross multiple layers (e.g. from Modbus RTU to Modbus TCP), specially when it involves several communication media, such as serial and Ethernet.
Solutions by iGrid T&D have been designed for exactly this kind of challenges. Thanks to our commitment to standard protocols, all devices devices and software systems, comprising RTUs, gateways, I/O extension units and SCADA system, provide a unique range of communication protocols and connectivity options.
Our solutions can use almost all protocols to both collect and transfer data from and between devices and entities.
Amongst others, the supported communication protocols include:
Master/Slave IEC 60870–5‑101 | Master/Slave IEC 60870–5‑104 |
Master/Slave Modbus TCP/UDP and JBUS (master) | Master/Slave ModbusRTU |
Master/Slave DNP3.0 (serial, UDP, TCP) | Master IEC 60870–5‑103 |
Master IEC 60870–5‑102 | Master DLMS |
Master Profibus DP | Master Spabus, Mlink, Procome |
Master IEC 62056–21 | SNMP Agent/Manager |
IEC 61850 MMS Client/Server | IEC 61850 GOOSE Publisher/Subscriber |
OPC UA |
Our solutions can also communicate through technologies from other industries like mySQL, web services and IoT protocols (e.g. MQTT).
Furthermore, the devices have communicated with equipment from numerous different vendors in a broad variety of applications. We have connected it all: new and old systems, Ethernet and serial, IEC 61850 and old legacy protocols (like SPA-bus), IoT networks and old relays, SCADA systems and intranets, generation and energy market.
Our Gateways and Protocol Conversion Solutions
Since we believe in advanced automation technology, all devices and software systems by iGrid T&D can not only convert between several protocols but also provide an extensive range of functionalities and characteristics to overcome present and future communication challenges in the most efficient ways.
With our state-of-the-art products, you no longer need to worry about interoperability and network inefficiencies.
Our devices are already configurable and versatile by design, but we also provide further product configurations and tailored services upon request.
Serial to TCP, Multi-Layer Protocol Converter & Network Gateway
iGW, iGWlite
- Multiple Serial & Ethernet ports, optional Ethernet Switch and GPRS modem
- Conversion between all protocols, e.g:
ModbusRTU to IEC 61850
Profibus to Modbus TCP
DNP3 to Web Services - Conversion between several layers, from analog signals to web applications
- Tiny device combining advanced Data Processing and Automation functions


Smart Meter Gateway, Data Concentrator & Load Curve Collector
iGWlite, iGW
- Protocol conversion from IEC60870‑5–102, IEC 62056–21, Modbus or DLMS into any desired protocol and communication layer
- Data collection and concentration from more than 24 meters at once
- Load Curve collection and transfer
- Data processing & automation with internal PLC based on IEC 61131–3
- Compact all-in-one devices
Powerful Protocol Conversion Software
iGW-VM, iControl SCADA — Main network gateway/ communications hub
- Can act as central gateway, meter management & automation system
- For all levels, from network/ substation Gateway and SCADA HMI to Control Center
- Provides powerful multi-layer protocol conversion capabilities to your entire network
iGW-VM — Communication front-end
- Highly scalable and powerful gateway software for any server running on windows or linux.
- communication front-end for siwtchgears, transformers and other equipment
- iGrid protocol suite for powerful multi-layer protocol conversion capabilities to your gear, control system, device or PLC

State-of-the-Art R&D and Advanced Engineering & Product Development
International R&D
- Inhouse R&D on the forefront of communication protocol technology, enriched by numerous international and academic project
Engineering & Development Services
- Advanced and customized application engineering and product development for specific client needs.
Substation RTU, Bay Controller, Distributed I/O..
iRTU, iRTUcompact
- Multiple Serial & Ethernet ports, optional Ethernet Switch and GPRS modem
- Two configurable I/O cards with up to 48 digital inputs & outputs and analog inputs
- iGrid protocol suite for powerful multi-layer protocol conversion capabilities to your gear, control system, device or PLC
iRTUe
- Remote I/O units for advanced SAS networks
- IEC 61850 GOOSE communication

Other common features of iGrid T&Ds software core, iGComms, running on all iGrid products:
Time Management
All of our devices are capable of high precision time-synchronization (<1ms) via PTP or NTP and carry internal Real-Time Clocks with a an accuracy of 1ppm. This allows to keep on recording events with a micro-second time stamping accuracy, even when connection to the time source (masterclock) is lost, permitting to trace failures back meticulously.
iConf Tool
iConf has been specifically developed for electrical applications, saving you lots of time and money throughout the control system set-up and maintenance tasks, whilst also minimizing your project risks. You can use the software tool to configure all igrid devices and software systems as well as design IEC 61850 projects, to up and download your configurations, and create your own templates.

PLC Automation
All our devices can execute logical/mathematical functions and automation sequences with super high speeds thanks to their PLC capabilities.
The integrated PLC is highly scalable and has been applied in all kinds of fields to solve a broad variety of challenges.
iConfPLC
User-friendly and graphical programming module (editor) for automation sequences and PLCs based on IEC 61131–3.

Compliance and Interoperability Across the Globe
Thanks to our experiences with electrical networks and substations in a variety of industries all around the planet, our products have been prepared for an immmense range of high-demanding requirements and standards, guaranteeing a peaceful approval process for any project in any country. Our certifications range from EMC compatibility and communication protocol standards like IEC 61850 to cyber security means and have been asserted by third party certification bodies like DNV GL/ KEMA.
Why to Opt for a Protocol Gateway by iGrid T&D?
Our advanced Protocol Gateways can handle a unique range of protocols and network architectures, allowing them to match network requirements and collect, process and transfer data from multi-vendor IEDs and meters using several protocols at once. These capabilities can be provided by all iGrid T&D solutions, in addition to otheradvanced technological features and functionalities for all kind of energy applications and requirements.
As a client you can benefit from a uniquely flexible and scalable all-in-one solution that is easy to use and will minimize your costs throughout the entire project.
Solution Benefits & Functions
From ModbusRTU to IEC 61850
IEC 61850 MMS & GOOSE support
Map any old protocol/ IED to IEC 61850
From ModbusRTU to ModbusTCP
Conversions between Serial, Ethernet and GPRS media
From DLMS to any CC protocol
Integration of IoT networks
From industrial to IP communication
Older protocols like SPAbus, Mlink or Procome
A‑Level certified IEC 61850 compliance
Tailored solutions according to your needs
State-of-the-art IEC 61850 technology
Customized training & support
Remote maintenance/ testing
Reliable and efficient protection functions
PRP network redundancy
Graphical visualization of measurements & data
Remote substation monitoring and control
Full interoperability
Optimized efficiency and productivity
Local & global alarm generation
Complex logic schemes
High-precision timestamping and event recording
Fault location detection
Automatic switching sequences
No need for auxiliary relays and hardwired interfaces
PLC automation with IEC 61131–3
Engineering & maintenance cost reduction
iControl or 3rd party SCADA
Customized solution
Automatic interlocking supervision
Automatic data storage
Supervisory control
Reduced space for human error
Comissioning cost reduction
Fault diagnostics
Reduced wiring
Improved reliability & security
Simple connection between IED and substation HMI
Simple device set-up/ deployment
Simple retrofits
High-speed, intelligent interlocking with GOOSE
Protocol Conversion Solutions
- Conversion between Serial and Ethernet (e.g. Modbus RTU vs ModbusTCP)
- Conversion between old and new protocols
- Mapping of any protocol to IEC 61850
- IEC 61850 publisher /subscriber
- Bridge to IT and IoT networks
- SCADA with Gateway functionalities
- Substation RTU
- Substation Gateway
- Remote & distributed I/Os
Full Independence for an Open Architecture
All of our products support several types of communication media, such as wireless (GPRS/ 3g, 4g), VSAT, analog radio, Ethernet or Serial, and can communicate with the entire iGrid T&D protocol suite. Thanks to our experiences with devices from almost all known vendors and our pledge for standard protocols, we can ensure the seamless integration of our products with any third party devices.
Sleep Peacefully with Expert Cyber Security
iGrid T&D enforces several layers of security measures guided by the propositions of the IEC 62351 standard to protect its devices from all kinds of threats.
Our hardened devices feature Role Based Access Control (RBAC) to avoid intrinsic risks such as security holes and unauthorized actions by authenticated users.
In addition to end-to-end encryptions via TSL/SSL, HTTPS, SSH and standard procedures for VPNs (e.g. OpenVPN), its communication can also be secured with network control methods such as firewalls, IP filters, ACL or TCP port blocks.

Hot-Standby Redundancy
All of our devices can operate in hot-standby redundancy mode:
- Hot-standby server/device is updated continuously
- Clients and IEDs automatically switch to the hot-standby server
- Serial loop redundancy (hot standby gateway acts as a (virtual) serial port to arrive to disconnected devices)
Network Redundancy
All of our devices can provide RSTP, HSR & PRP (IEC 62439–3) redundancy
- Modern substation automation without packet losses and latencies
- Invisible to the application and usable by most industrial Ethernet protocols
- For applications requiring high availability and quick switchovers
Related Projects
Integrated Switchgear Controller
SGC195, the new switchgear controller developed by EDP and iGrid T&D combines RTU and protection relay features in one device to reduce the cost of the whole project.
Railway MV Substation Control
In this project the iGW converts from IEC 101 to IEC104 in order to comfortably expand the SCADA system of the metro lines, using high technology switches and SDH equipment via Ethernet. The iGW controls the low power substations (380 Voltage grid) by reading the data from a SIEMENS PLC via IEC 101, mapping it to IEC104, and sending it to the existing SCADA Control Center.
Communications Control Center
In this project iControl was implemented as SCADA system (server with floating clients) to supervise and control all communication facilities (including radio base stations, communication links, UPS systems, and CERs) of a major Spanish electrical utility via Modbus TCP, IEC 104 and SNMP.
MV Grid Distribution Control Center
In this project, iControl is based on a client/server architecture with 4 operators controlling 4,000 multivendor RTUs via IEC60870‑5–104, IEC60870‑5–101 and DNP3.0, through the public GPRS network, in the 25kV distribution grid of Buenos Aires.
Protocol Conversion Solutions

iGW‑S Substation Gateway
Powerful and reliable substation gateway, able to run either in standalone or redundant modes, with an embedded Ethernet switch (4 ports) and IEC 61850 client and server capabilities.
The Slimmest Gateway
The iGWlite comes with 1 Ethernet, 1 RS485/RS422 and an optional RS-232 port (copper or fiber) or a 2G/3G/4G mode – taking little space on a DIN-Rail, but still employing the full iGrid protocol stack.

iControl SCADA
High-performance SCADA for the visualization and control of substation data. It is able to run either in client/server or standalone modes, providing advanced functionalities such as hot-standby redundancy, automatic line coloring, events notification (via e‑mail and sms), SQL logging, and reports generation.

iRTU – With I/Os for Direct Data Acquisition
Compact and scalable bay controller which can act as IEC 61850 client or server, featuring configurable I/O boards for direct data acquisition, high-precision timestamping and an optional Ethernet switch for additional Ethernet ports.

iRTUe – Remote I/O Extensions
iGWs, iRTUs and third party master units can be freely extended by connecting one or several iRTUe.
They are IEC 61850 (GOOSE) compliant and come in many configurations such as 48 DI, 16 relays, 16 AI, 24 DI + 8 relays, 24 DI + 8 AI or 8 relays + 8 AI.
iGrid Solutions and Applications

Automation with IEC 61850
The IEC 61850 standard is enabling new oportunities for vendor interoperability and advanced substation automation. Find out how you can take advantage of IEC 61850 with easy-to-use and adaptable solutions for a simple migration or retrofit.

HV Substation Automation
Powerful substation automation systems often handle numerous communication protocols and media within one network, which can result in expensive and complex projects. Avoid these problems with interoperable technology and smart configuration tools.

MV Distribution Grid Automation
It is often difficult to find the exact solution you need in a MV application, leading to higher costs than necessary. With our scalable and adaptable solutions you will be able to only pay for what you really need, without comprimising on quality or security.

Photovoltaic Power Station
Using an open and scalable SCADA system to monitor and control a PV plant comes with many benefits on several levels. Find out how advanced communication technology affects PV operation, maintenance, system design, investment security, profits…
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