The Viltrus MB converter range is designed to collect information from wired M-Bus metering networks and make it available to equipment communicating via Modbus RTU. This provides an integration route for compatible meters in commercial buildings, plant rooms, communal heating installations and other multi-meter applications.
Five models are available to suit different network sizes. Each model can be specified with an RS485 or RS232 interface, allowing the converter to be matched to the receiving system. The devices feature DIN-rail mounting, galvanic isolation and protection against M-Bus line short circuits.
Viltrus MB Series at a Glance
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Function: Wired M-Bus to Modbus RTU conversion
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Models: MB-10, MB-50, MB-80, MB-100 and MB-250
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M-Bus capacity: Up to 10, 50, 80, 100 or 250 devices, depending on model
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Modbus interfaces: RS485 or RS232 versions
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Power supply: 12–36 VDC
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Protection: Galvanic isolation and M-Bus short-circuit protection
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Installation: DIN-rail-mountable enclosure
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Applications: Meter data integration, BMS and energy monitoring
Choose the Correct MB Converter
Select a converter according to the number of M-Bus devices on the network and the serial interface required by the receiving Modbus equipment.
| Model |
Maximum M-Bus devices |
Interface options |
| MB-10 |
10 |
RS485 / RS232 |
| MB-50 |
50 |
RS485 / RS232 |
| MB-80 |
80 |
RS485 / RS232 |
| MB-100 |
100 |
RS485 / RS232 |
| MB-250 |
250 |
RS485 / RS232 |
The model number indicates the maximum supported M-Bus device count. Check the total M-Bus load and compatibility of the connected meters before specifying the converter.
M-Bus to Modbus RTU Integration
M-Bus is widely used for reading heat, water and other utility meters, whereas Modbus RTU is commonly used by controllers and building-management equipment. The Viltrus MB series provides an interface between these systems, reducing the need for separate manual meter-reading arrangements.
The MB range is intended for serial Modbus RTU communication. Do not confuse RS485/RS232 versions with a native Modbus TCP/Ethernet converter. Confirm the required meter data points, register mapping and commissioning settings for your application.
Technical Specifications
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Supply voltage: 12–36 VDC
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M-Bus line voltage: Mark 36–40 V; Space 24–27 V
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M-Bus data transfer speed: 300–9,600 baud (manufacturer specification table)
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RS485 direction control: Automatic
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Short-circuit protection: 500 mA triggering current
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Short-circuit response: Programmable 1–4 seconds; recovery 10–60 seconds
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Isolation: Galvanic isolation between power, M-Bus and RS485 interfaces; insulation breakdown voltage greater than 1.5 kV
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Power consumption: Up to 3.5 W without connected devices; up to 20 W fully loaded
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Indication: LED
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Mounting: DIN rail
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Dimensions: 45 × 75 × 105 mm
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Operating environment: −25°C to +60°C; up to 95% RH, non-condensing
Note: The manufacturer's overview also mentions baud rates up to 38,400 bit/s, while its technical specification table states 300–9,600 baud for data transfer. Confirm the required serial settings against the specific model datasheet before ordering.
Typical Applications
- Integration of wired M-Bus heat meters into Modbus RTU systems
- Communal heating and multi-tenant metering installations
- Commercial building-management systems
- Plant-room energy monitoring and metering networks
- Centralised water and thermal energy data collection
- Industrial monitoring and control applications
Need Help Selecting a Viltrus Converter?
Contact Stockshed Metering with the number and type of M-Bus meters, the required RS485 or RS232 connection and details of the Modbus RTU monitoring system. We can help identify a suitable MB converter for your installation.