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Protocol

The Protocol add-on equips AIM-Linux gateways with the drivers, stacks, and configuration tools required to bridge OT field buses and IT services. Full documentation is available on the Advantech wiki: AIM-Linux AddOn Protocol.

Supported Field Protocols​

  • Modbus RTU/TCP – Poll, write, and expose register data to downstream MQTT, REST, or database targets.
  • OPC UA – Host or subscribe to secure OPC UA servers for line monitoring.
  • BACnet, IEC 61850, DNP3 – Optional stacks for building automation and energy verticals.
  • Custom serial – Use template drivers and payload parsers to integrate proprietary devices.

Configuration Workflow​

  1. Install the Protocol add-on package on AIM-Linux.
  2. Launch the configuration UI (EdgeLink Studio or the CLI helper) to define device drivers, points, and polling intervals.
  3. Map OT data tags to cloud or on-prem destinations such as DeviceOn, MQTT brokers, or databases.
  4. Validate connectivity with the built-in simulator before placing the gateway in production.

Best Practices​

  • Group devices by protocol type and polling frequency to optimise CPU usage.
  • Use secure transports (TLS for Modbus TCP, certificates for OPC UA) when the OT network is shared or routed.
  • Version-control configuration exports (.json or .conf files) to simplify fleet rollouts.
  • Combine with the Management add-on for remote deployment and monitoring of protocol profiles.

Resources​