SYSTEMS NEED A COMMON LANGUAGE.
Universal Gateways for Building Automation
Building automation rarely consists of just one system.
BACnet, Modbus, KNX, M-Bus, DALI2, PROFINET, and other communication protocols must work together reliably. MBS Universal Gateways connect different building automation and industrial systems. They translate data between various communication protocols and enable a reliable exchange of information—regardless of the system architecture.
From compact integration to large-scale automation systems.
One platform. Many possibilities.
How MBS Universal Gateways Work
An MBS Universal Gateway connects systems with different communication protocols. The specific protocols, bus interfaces, and data point capacities required depend on the individual project.
Software drivers process the respective communication protocols. The central data point manager assigns the information to one or more target protocols according to the project configuration.
Simply put:
The hardware establishes the physical connection.
The software processes the communication protocols.
The data point manager brings the information together.
The XT, A, and X series differ primarily in terms of their hardware platforms, performance, data point capacity, and expandability.
Overview of the MBS Gateway Series
XT series
A New Generation of Hardware for New Projects
The XT Series builds on the proven functionality of the MBS Universal Gateways on a new hardware platform. A more powerful CPU and expanded memory provide additional capacity for demanding integration tasks. The integrated secure element serves as the hardware foundation for digital certificates and other security features. The XT Series is the preferred gateway platform for new projects.
A-Series
High capacity for large automation systems
The A Series is designed for large-scale integration projects and extensive automation systems. With up to 40,000 data points and additional interfaces, it provides the capacity needed for complex applications.
X-Series
A proven platform for existing installations
The X Series remains relevant for existing installations, ongoing projects, expansions, downloads, and support. For new projects, the XT Series is gradually taking over its role. This ensures that existing applications remain supported and allows for a planned transition to the new generation of hardware.
A Comparison of the Three Gateway Series
A common operating principle. Three hardware platforms for different requirements.
| Characteristic | XT Series New Generation | A Series Large Systems | X Series Inventory & Transition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classification | The New Generation of the MBS Universal Gateway Platform | The high-performance series for large automation systems | The proven platform for existing installations |
| Suitable for | New integration projects as well as current and future requirements for building automation | Large and complex automation systems with particularly high data point capacity | Existing systems, ongoing projects, expansions, and existing system architectures |
| Data Point Capacity | Depending on the gateway configuration, up to 2,500 data points | Up to 40,000 data points | Depending on the model up to 2,500 data points |
| Bus routes | Depending on the model, with integrated bus interfaces and combined bus connections | Additional interfaces depending on the gateway configuration | Wide selection of models with various built-in bus interfaces |
| Distinctive Feature | A new generation of hardware and an integrated secure element as the foundation for additional security features | Exceptionally high data point capacity in a compact form factor | A proven platform with a wide selection of established gateway configurations |
| Product Perspective |
Preferred Platform for New Projects
Discover the XT Series |
Also for applications with particularly high
capacity requirements
Discover the A Series |
The X Series is being gradually replaced by the
XT Series in new projects. It remains
available for existing installations, ongoing
projects, upgrades, downloads, and support.
Discover the X Series |
To view the full table, please swipe to the side.
Product Overview – As of August 2026
The Right Universal Gateway for Your Project
Do you already know which systems and communication protocols you want to connect?
Configure the appropriate Universal Gateway ›
Still unsure which series or model to choose?
Request a personalized consultation ›
Frequently Asked Questions About Universal Gateways
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An MBS Universal Gateway enables data exchange between building automation and industrial systems that use different communication protocols, such as BACnet, Modbus, KNX, or M-Bus. Software drivers process the respective protocols; the central data point manager assigns the information to one or more target protocols according to the project configuration.
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Depending on the specific gateway configuration, systems can be connected using BACnet, Modbus, MQTT, OPC UA, KNX, DALI2, M-Bus, and PROFINET, among others. Other standard protocols and project-specific solutions are also possible.
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The XT, A, and X series are based on the same operating principle but differ in terms of hardware platform, performance, data point capacity, and expansion options. The comparison table on this page outlines the key features and applications of each series.
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The X Series remains relevant for existing installations, ongoing projects, expansions, downloads, and support. Existing systems do not need to be replaced immediately. For expansions or upgrades, a project-by-project assessment can be conducted to determine whether a phased transition to the XT Series is advisable.
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Key factors include the required source and destination protocols, the bus systems to be physically connected, the number of data points, and the performance and scalability requirements. The MBS Gateway Configurator helps you put together a suitable configuration.
Connections on Which Building Automation Can Be Built
For over 35 years, MBS has been developing solutions for cross-vendor communication in building automation—ranging from universal gateways and BACnet routers to software and custom development, as well as its own accredited testing laboratory.
