Eletechsup 23IO Series: Bringing RS485 Remote I/O to Python and Open-Source Automation
Share
In industrial automation, reliable hardware is only part of the solution. Engineers also need flexible software tools that make it easier to integrate remote I/O modules into custom applications, monitoring systems, and automated workflows.
The Eletechsup 23IO Series combines digital inputs, transistor outputs, and RS485 Modbus RTU communication in a flexible remote I/O platform. For developers working with Python, Linux, industrial gateways, or custom automation software, these modules provide a practical way to connect physical signals with software-based control.
The series has also attracted independent developer interest on GitHub, where an open-source Python project demonstrates how Eletechsup remote I/O modules can be integrated into software-driven automation systems.
1. Flexible Digital Input and Output Configurations
The Eletechsup 23IO family offers different channel configurations for projects with different I/O requirements.
Depending on the model, the series includes:
-
23IOA08: 8 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs
-
23IOB16: 16 digital inputs and 16 digital outputs
-
23IOC24: 24 digital inputs and 24 digital outputs
-
23IOE48: 48 digital inputs and 48 digital outputs
The modules combine digital signal monitoring with NPN transistor output control, making them suitable for applications that need to read external signals and control compatible DC loads.
Typical applications include machine status monitoring, production equipment, signal acquisition, distributed control, and custom automation projects.
With several channel configurations available, engineers can select a model that better matches their project's I/O requirements.
2. Standard RS485 Modbus RTU Communication
The 23IO Series uses RS485 communication with the Modbus RTU protocol, making it suitable for integration into many industrial control architectures.
Potential system configurations include:
-
PC-based automation software
-
Linux computers and embedded systems
-
Python-based monitoring and control applications
-
Industrial controllers and compatible gateways
-
Distributed I/O systems using an RS485 bus
Modbus RTU is widely used in industrial equipment because it provides a structured way to read input states and control output channels.
For developers, this means the modules can be integrated into a larger system without requiring a completely proprietary communication framework.
3. A GitHub Python Project for Remote I/O Control
One interesting development is the open-source GitHub repository rs485-relay-module, created by an independent developer.
The project provides Python support for Eletechsup remote I/O hardware, using Modbus RTU communication to interact with connected modules. It offers an example of how the 23IO family can be incorporated into custom software workflows.
The project author reports testing three Eletechsup 23IOD32 modules. This is an important distinction: the documented hardware test was performed with the 23IOD32, rather than the 23IOA08 specifically.
Although individual model configurations may differ, the project illustrates the potential of using Python and Modbus RTU to develop multi-module control systems.
GitHub repository:
https://github.com/bravobravo-au/rs485-relay-module
4. What Can Engineers Build with Python and the 23IO Series?
Combining remote I/O hardware with Python opens up a range of possibilities for custom automation.
Automated monitoring
Read digital input states and monitor switches, sensors, and machine operating conditions.
Centralized output control
Control compatible transistor outputs through a Python application, allowing multiple devices to be managed from a single interface.
Multi-module systems
Connect multiple compatible remote I/O modules to an RS485 network and develop software to coordinate their operation.
Custom dashboards and logging
Use Python to collect input data, record events, generate reports, and display system status.
Linux and embedded automation
Integrate the modules into suitable Linux-based computers, gateways, or other systems that support a compatible RS485 interface and Modbus RTU software.
These are possible applications rather than prebuilt features supplied with every module. The actual implementation depends on the selected model, software library, communication settings, and system architecture.
5. Why Open-Source Software Matters for Industrial I/O
For hardware users, open-source software examples can reduce the effort required to understand a device and begin building an application.
A Python project can help developers explore communication commands, organize I/O control logic, and create reusable software for their own equipment.
For Eletechsup, community-developed integrations also demonstrate how standard communication protocols can help products fit into different software environments.
Instead of limiting remote I/O modules to a single controller or application, engineers can explore how to use them in customized monitoring systems, test equipment, production automation, and distributed control projects.
6. Choosing the Right 23IO Model
When selecting a module, engineers should consider the number of digital inputs and outputs required, the electrical characteristics of the connected signals, and the intended control application.
The 23IO Series provides several channel configurations, allowing projects to scale from smaller systems to higher-density remote I/O installations.
Before using a community-developed library, users should also verify that its supported register mapping, command structure, and output-control functions match the specific module they intend to use.
Conclusion: Hardware Flexibility Meets Python-Based Automation
The Eletechsup 23IO Series combines digital input and output control with RS485 Modbus RTU communication, making it a useful option for engineers developing distributed automation systems.
The independent Python project on GitHub provides a practical example of how Eletechsup remote I/O hardware can be integrated into software-driven applications, including multi-module control.
For engineers who value standard industrial communication, flexible I/O configurations, and the ability to write their own automation software, the 23IO Series offers a platform worth exploring.
Eletechsup — Practical RS485 Remote I/O Solutions for Industrial Automation and Custom Development.
GitHub project:
https://github.com/bravobravo-au/rs485-relay-module