Power System Communications - Modbus Protocol Relay Example

Power System Communications - Modbus Protocol Relay Example

🎙 Dr. David Lubkeman 👥 3K 📅 August 17, 2025 ⏱ 17 min 👁 634 📄 tutorial 🧭 2026-08-17
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

ModbusSCADArelayPythonWireshark

Summary

This video tutorial by Dr. David Lubkeman demonstrates how to use the Modbus protocol to communicate with a power system protection relay. It begins with an overview of the relay’s communication features and physical connections. The presenter then explains the Modbus object types (discrete inputs, input registers, coils) and function codes used in the example. A Python SCADA application is developed to read analog measurements and discrete status points, and to send binary commands to the relay. The video also shows how to use Wireshark to inspect Modbus TCP/IP messages between the client and server. The relay is configured with specific IP addresses and register mappings. The example includes reading voltage, current, power, and energy measurements, as well as controlling a simulated circuit breaker via a coil write. The tutorial concludes with a summary and provides source code on GitHub.

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Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The video provides a practical, hands-on demonstration of Modbus communication in a power system context. It clearly explains the protocol’s object types and function codes, and shows real-world implementation with a physical relay and Python. The argumentation is solid, as each step is demonstrated and verified using Wireshark. The value lies in its educational approach, making complex concepts accessible through a concrete example. The presenter’s expertise adds credibility, and the inclusion of downloadable code enhances its utility for learners.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The video demonstrates scientific rigor by using real hardware and software, and by verifying communication with Wireshark. It references the Pymodbus library and Wireshark, and provides a link to the source code on GitHub. The title accurately reflects the content. The video is well-structured with clear explanations and visual aids. However, it does not cite academic sources, but this is typical for a tutorial. The content is reliable and reproducible.

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Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content: it demonstrates Modbus protocol communication with a power system relay, including examples and practical implementation.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The video is a clear, step-by-step tutorial by an academic expert (Dr. David Lubkeman), demonstrating real hardware and software interactions. It includes practical details, references to open-source code, and uses Wireshark for verification. The content is accurate and well-structured, though it lacks formal citations and peer review.

Chapters

Cited Sources

Concurring Sources

  • Modbus Protocol Specification — Official Modbus application protocol specification, which aligns with the video's explanation of function codes and object types.

Contribution & Novelties

This video provides a clear, practical demonstration of Modbus communication with a power system relay, filling a gap for engineers and students who need hands-on examples. It integrates hardware, software, and network analysis, offering a complete learning experience. The use of a real relay and Python SCADA application makes the concepts tangible.

Pour aller plus loin :

  • Modbus Protocol — Overview of the Modbus protocol, its variants, and applications.
  • SCADA — Introduction to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems.
  • Wireshark — Official site for the network protocol analyzer used in the video.

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Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in quantity and quality of information, and moderate technical level, indicating a well-balanced tutorial that is both informative and accessible. The reliability score is also high, reflecting the practical verification and expert presentation.

Reliability 8/10