Modbus TCP is based on Ethernet and can achieve remote access to the inverter through a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN). For example, engineers can remotely adjust the frequency parameters of inverters in multiple plant areas at the control center without on-site operation.

Inverters usually need to read and write multiple parameters (such as output frequency, current, temperature, fault code) frequently. Modbus TCP's Ethernet bandwidth (100M/1G) supports fast transmission of large amounts of data, while Modbus RTU's serial port rate can easily become a bottleneck.

In a production line, dozens of inverters need to be controlled simultaneously. Modbus TCP supports concurrent communication of multiple masters, while Modbus RTU's master-slave architecture requires polling devices, which is inefficient.

Modbus TCP can be directly integrated with data monitoring/acquisition systems, such as writing inverter operation data to a database for production report generation. Modbus RTU requires additional gateways (such as Modbus RTU to TCP gateways) to increase complexity.

Through the TCP/IP network, engineers can remotely update inverter firmware or download fault logs, while Modbus RTU requires on-site connection to debugging tools.

Modbus RTU is suitable for small local systems (such as inverter + PLC + touch screen), low budget and high real-time requirements.

Choose RTU: When low-cost, high real-time, and short-distance communication is required (such as workshop equipment control), most industrial equipment supports the RTU protocol, which is classic, simple and reliable.

Choose TCP: When high-speed, long-distance, and complex network integration is required (such as cross-factory monitoring or docking with IT systems), remote equipment diagnosis and upgrades can be achieved through the Internet.