Before we go on, let’s look at a couple common misconceptions that surround Modbus

and RS485.

First, let’s make a clear distinction as to what each is. Modbus is a Protocol. RS485 is an
electrical standard. So what exactly does that mean? Well the Modbus protocol defines a
messaging structure that is used to exchange data. RS485, however, only defines the
electrical signal levels and wiring that allow data to be transferred. If you ever hear any
one say “RS485 Protocol”, you know immediately they have fallen victim to mis-
information.

Modbus can in fact use many different types of electrical standards and is in NO way tied
to RS485. So Modbus communication can take place over RS232, RS422, RS485, Radio,
Microwave, Satellite, etc. So Modbus does not define the physical medium over which it
communicates, but rather defines the messaging structure.

So why then are we looking at Modbus in conjunction with RS485 in this course? Well
even though Modbus can use many other physical media to communicate, there are
features in RS485 that make the latter extremely well suited to the way in which the
Modbus messaging structure works. In the field, most of the application of Modbus will
involve RS485, hence the importance of studying them together.