How Moxa Enhances EPMS Integration in Modern Data Centers

Background

Modern data centers depend heavily on Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS) to maintain uptime, reduce energy waste, and ensure operational safety. However, integrating power monitoring devices into a central management platform remains a major challenge due to legacy protocols, harsh environments, and cybersecurity concerns.

Moxa helps bridge this gap with reliable, secure, and scalable connectivity solutions that enable seamless data collection from diverse power devices—transforming raw measurements into actionable insights within DCIM and EMS platforms.

Key Challenges Faced by Data Centers

• Legacy devices using Modbus RTU/ASCII protocols not compatible with Ethernet systems
• EMI-prone environments like switchgear rooms and UPS systems
• Integration complexity from mixing old and new equipment
• High-density device deployments requiring fast, secure configuration
• Rising cybersecurity demands in OT networks

Moxa’s Connectivity-First Approach

Moxa provides a robust hardware and software ecosystem that enables data centers to integrate their EPMS without overhauling existing infrastructure.

Core Solutions Include:

• NPort Device Servers
  Connect RS-232/422/485 serial devices to Ethernet networks.
  Suitable for industrial environments with support for wide temperature ranges and secure protocols like HTTPS, SSH, and SNMPv3.
• MGate Protocol Gateways (e.g., MB3170, MB3660)
  Convert serial Modbus to Ethernet-based protocols for seamless system integration.
  Features include mass configuration tools, Ethernet cascading, and priority control.
• EDS/PT Series Switches
  Deliver industrial-grade, redundant Ethernet networking, certified to IEC 61850-3 for power substation environments.
  Designed to withstand EMI, extreme temperatures, and power fluctuations.
• ioLogik I/O Modules
  Acquire digital and analog data from sensors that lack native network interfaces.
  Support RESTful APIs for integration with modern monitoring platforms.
• MXview Network Management Software
  Centralizes network visibility and configuration with support for RESTful APIs.
  Helps streamline operation and maintenance tasks across hundreds of devices.

Real-World Applications

AC Power Monitoring – Leading U.S. Tech Firm

• Integrated diverse power meters using NPort and MGate devices
• Centralized configuration with MXconfig
• Enabled rapid deployment and reduced integration effort

Switchgear Monitoring – Large Industrial Site in China

• Deployed MGate MB3660 for Modbus data conversion
• Used PT switches with EMI resistance
• Achieved high-speed data transfer in noisy environments

UPS Monitoring – Semiconductor Facility in Taiwan

• Implemented high-port-density MGate gateways with active polling
• Ensured secure and fast data transmission from UPS systems
• Improved reliability of backup power monitoring

PDU Monitoring – Data Centers in North America

• Used MGate MB3170 with Ethernet cascading to reduce wiring
• Captured detailed power and temperature data from PDUs
• Enabled integration with EMS platforms for better energy analysis

Integrated DCIM – Global Data Center in South Korea

• Combined PT-G7828 switches, ioLogik I/O, and MGate devices
• Monitored power, cooling, and backup systems in real-time
• Built a scalable foundation for future expansion

Results

• Improved Reliability: EMI-resistant hardware maintained stable performance in harsh environments
• Faster Deployment: Mass configuration tools reduced setup time across hundreds of devices
• Increased Visibility: Centralized management enabled proactive fault detection and power quality analytics
• Enhanced Security: Features like AES encryption, secure protocols, and firmware management protected critical infrastructure
• Cost Savings: Efficient wiring, reuse of legacy devices, and reduced downtime lowered total cost of ownership

Conclusion

Moxa doesn’t aim to replace your existing EPMS platform—it strengthens it. By providing the connectivity layer that ensures accurate, secure, and real-time power data acquisition, Moxa enables data centers to improve efficiency, uptime, and scalability.

For data centers building or upgrading their EPMS network, Moxa offers a future-proof path that integrates legacy systems, withstands harsh conditions, and meets modern cybersecurity expectations.

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