Product overview and engineering role
The SimtoLink MQTT edge protocol bridge takes process data from a serial port, Ethernet, or a wireless link and publishes it to an MQTT broker under configurable topic, QoS, and retained-message rules. A reverse subscription can write registers. It is a standard on-ramp for industrial internet platforms and public-cloud IoT hubs.
SimtoLink supplies mutual certificate authentication, a store-and-forward buffer for disconnects, and topic templates in bulk. It can work with a cellular or NB backhaul module, as ordered. Volume jobs can specify an explosion-proof housing and a wide supply range.
Reliability and field fit
On electrical safety and EMC, this bridge has passed the relevant salt-spray and vibration type-test items. Ports include surge and reverse-polarity protection. Reinforced grounding and a partitioned layout reduce ground-loop and common-mode risk. Higher ingress protection and a corrosion-resistant coating are options for outdoor or coastal sites.
Parameters can be loaded in bulk, with threshold policies and, on models that have them, event video or waveform capture. OTA covers configuration and firmware. SimtoLink's site acceptance is a power-on self-test, a communications time sync, and a sample check. For metering or safety use, help is available for a third-party metrology submission and type-test documents.
Key hardware parameters
Hardware ratings below are the typical build of this bridge, so they can be cited in a selection note or a tender. For a wider range, redundant power, or an intrinsically safe explosion-proof variant, ask SimtoLink for the hardware specification and the installation and commissioning guide. Where order codes in the family differ, the nameplate and the accompanying documents decide.
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | ARM A53 dual-core | Fanless |
| Memory / storage | 2G/8G eMMC | Industrial grade |
| Ethernet | 4×GbE + SFP | Redundant RSTP |
| Serial | 2×RS485 | Isolation 2.5kV |
| Wireless | LTE Cat.4 | External antenna |
| Protocol stack | IEC104/DNP3 | Expandable |
| Operating temperature | -30～68 ℃ | Wide temperature |
| Power | AC 220V | Redundant terminals |
| Mounting | 19-inch | Grounding required |
| Security | VPN/IPSec | Firmware signature check |
Typical applications
Ways this bridge is usually deployed, for choosing a scheme and checking the interface:
Devices straight to the cloud
Process values go up as JSON over TLS. A device shadow and a rules engine route the alarms.
One northbound outlet for several protocols
Southbound Modbus or a custom frame, northbound MQTT only, so the cloud needs fewer protocol plug-ins.
Weak links and mobile sites
While the cellular link jitters, a local queue builds. When the link returns, the bridge catches up in batches under the policy you set.
Installation, grounding, and maintenance
- Before power is applied, confirm supply range and polarity. Recheck bus voltage and breaker rating with a multimeter when the numbers are uncertain.
- Communications runs on shielded twisted pair with single-end grounding. Do not bundle it with high-power cable for a long pull.
- First commissioning belongs in the lab: two-way read and write, and a threshold trigger, with the platform. Then move the bridge to site.
- Outdoor mounting needs drainage and ventilation first. Inspect the sealing faces, and keep lightning-protection earth resistance within the local rule.
- For a unit that stays in service, sample-check it and archive logs every 24 months.
Ordering, documentation, and support
SimtoLink's pack for this bridge includes the hardware specification, outline drawings, a wiring table, and an example project. Volume orders can take a sample review and in-plant inspection. Warranty and calibration are whatever the contract and the shipped documents say.
Related reading
Pages in this folder, for pairing a northbound IoT link with the collection side: