Modbus is often used for communication in the field of distributed energy systems. The established and simple protocol is based on 2-byte registers in which the measured values and setpoints are organized. The SunSpec Alliance has developed an information model optimized for energy systems, allowing inverters, battery storage systems, meters and other components to be connected in just a few clicks – without any time-consuming parameterization.
For the cloud connection, the software module Universal Cloud Adapter is required. The Cloud Adapter can be installed on any Windows or Linux device (x86, x64 or ARM). The setup is explained in “Getting Started“. Alternatively, you can also use the AnyViz IoT Gateway.
The SunSpec information model can be used both via a serial Modbus/RTU connection and via Modbus/TCP. A Modbus/TCP remote station can often be used as a gateway so that additional participants can be addressed via just one IP address by specifying different unit or slave IDs.
Further information on the topology can be found on the connection page for the Modbus protocol.
FunctionalityThe SunSpec protocol is organized in several blocks. After AnyViz has detected the “Common” block, it moves from block to block and returns the list of all available information. This means that an inverter can return a different number of MPPT blocks depending on the number of MPP trackers. If an installation is expanded, the additional information is available in the cloud with just one click. The previously configured data points continue to function even if the register addresses change.
| 10x/11x | Common |
| 1xx | Inverter |
| 120 | Inverter Controls Nameplate Ratings |
| 121 | Inverter Controls Basic Settings |
| 122 | Inverter Controls Extended Measurements and Status |
| 123 | Immediate Inverter Controls |
| 124 | Basic Storage Controls |
| 160 | Multiple MPPT Inverter Extension Model |
| 20x/21x | Meter |
We generally recommend connecting to the cloud via SunSpec instead of Modbus if this is supported by your device. If an information model you require is not listed, please do not hesitate to contact us.
