The present invention is directed to facilitating communication within an automation
system having a plurality of networks and network protocols. Specifically, a Modbus
network is operably connected to a network. A fieldbus coupler operably connected
to both networks having a program facilitates communication within the automation
system wherein devices connected to the network can be accessed for monitoring
and/or controlling via Modbus commands. The fieldbus coupler (FBC) program accepts
a Modbus function code containing one or more embedded message of varying types.
The FBC program using additional information contained in the Modbus function code
and the message type reads or writes only the required information to and from
the field devices. This specific read or write request of the information and the
embedding of more than one message type reduces overhead and bandwidth usage, thus
improving bus response time and efficiency.