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Modbus Poll is a Modbus master simulator that was created with the primary intention of assisting developers of Modbus slave devices as well as other individuals who want to test and mimic the Modbus protocol. It is a Windows application that enables users to connect to Modbus devices, read and write registers and coils, and do other operations.
The Modbus Poll protocol is compatible with both the Modbus RTU and TCP/IP communication protocols. Modbus Poll is a powerful tool for testing and debugging Modbus devices. It is not difficult to learn how to use, and it comes with a variety of features that make it a useful tool for software developers and mechanical engineers.
What is Modbus Poll?
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Why You Might Need an Alternative to Modbus Poll
While Modbus Poll is a reliable tool, there are times when alternative software is needed. Reasons to consider other alternatives include
- You need additional functionality beyond what Modbus Poll can offer.
- You want a more user-friendly interface and intuitive workflow.
- Need compatibility with different operating systems
- Cost considerations, as other options may be more cost-effective.
Best Modbus Poll Alternatives Comparison Table
Modbus Poll is a widely used software tool for testing and monitoring Modbus compatible devices. However, there are several reasons to look for an alternative to Modbus Poll.
Alternative | Platform | Price | Features |
---|---|---|---|
ModScan | Windows | Free/Paid | Real-time data monitoring |
ModSim | Windows | Paid | Advanced simulation options |
qmodbus | Linux | Free | Multiple protocol support |
Modbus Slave | Windows, Mac | Paid | Simultaneous connections |
CAS Modbus Scanner | Windows | Free/Paid | Customizable data views |
Best Modbus Poll Alternatives
Multiple Modbus slaves and data areas can be monitored simultaneously; Modbus Poll can be used to control other applications such as Excel; Modbus data can be logged to a file for troubleshooting and monitoring. Modbus data can be logged to a file, which is useful for troubleshooting and monitoring.
ModScan

Features:
ModScan is a powerful Modbus master simulator designed for Windows. Providing real-time data monitoring and logging to track and analyze Modbus communications, ModScan makes it easy to send and receive Modbus requests, view and change register values, and monitor response times. The software supports both RTU and ASCII modes and provides comprehensive error handling capabilities.
The Good
- User-friendly interface
- Extensive logging options
- Reliable error handling
The Bad
- Limited platform compatibility (Windows only)
- Some advanced features available in paid version
ModSim

Features:
ModSim is a feature-rich Modbus simulator for Windows that offers advanced simulation options. You can create virtual Modbus devices, simulate various scenarios, and test communication between master and slave devices. modSim supports both Modbus TCP and RTU protocols and provides comprehensive diagnostic tools for troubleshooting. It offers detailed logging, real-time graphical display, and the ability to generate custom response patterns.
The Good
- Flexible simulation capabilities
- Detailed logging and graphing
- Easy customization of response patterns
The Bad
- Limited to Windows platform
qmodbus

Features:
A free Modbus master simulator that is compatible with Linux operating systems and available under the name qmodbus. It is compatible with a wide variety of protocols, including ASCII, RTU, and Modbus TCP. You are able to monitor and control Modbus devices, read and write registers, and investigate the status of communication with the help of qmodbus. The software has a user-friendly interface and supports single as well as multiple Modbus connections, which makes it suited for a wide variety of testing scenarios.
The Good
- Free and open-source
- Compatible with Linux
- Simple and intuitive interface
The Bad
- Limited platform compatibility (Linux only)
Modbus Slave

Features:
Modbus Slave is a multifunctional testing tool for Modbus that is compatible with both the Windows and Mac operating systems. It gives you the ability to imitate Modbus slave devices and test programs that use Modbus as a master. Because you are able to configure and monitor several slave devices at the same time with Modbus Slave, this software is well suited for use in situations that require complex Modbus networks. In addition to supporting Modbus TCP and RTU protocols, this software provides a wide range of diagnostic functions.
The Good
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows and Mac)
- Convenient emulation of slave devices
- Comprehensive diagnostic capabilities
The Bad
- Interface can be complex for beginners
CAS Modbus Scanner

Features:
CAS Modbus Scanner is an all-encompassing testing application for Modbus that is available for Windows. It provides a user-friendly interface with customizable data views, allowing you to monitor and interact with Modbus devices effortlessly. The CAS Modbus Scanner is capable of simultaneously connecting to a number of different devices and supports both the Modbus TCP and Modbus RTU protocols. Batch configuration, data import and export, and the ability to construct bespoke scripts are only some of the features that are provided by it.
The Good
- Intuitive and customizable interface
- Convenient batch configuration options
- Scripting capabilities for advanced automation
The Bad
- Windows platform compatibility only
Questions and Answers
There are many alternative communication protocols to Modbus, but not all of them are compatible. Here are some industrial automation communication protocols: OPC – OLE for Process Control (OPC Classic) now. OPC UA – Open Platform Communication.
In most substantial Modbus systems, polling occurs many times per second. The master device polls each of the device’s hold registers in turn, then moves on to the next slave ID. Eventually, the process loops back to the beginning and begins again.