Starting with firmware version 3.016, TCW242 introduces new MQTT capabilities for cloud platforms, SCADA systems, and custom applications. MQTT is one of the most widely used protocols for Industrial IoT communication. It provides a simple and efficient transport mechanism. However, the structure of the published data often defines how easy the integration will be. To provide greater flexibility, TCW242 now supports four MQTT JSON payload options. Applications can receive only the information they need. This can reduce message traffic and simplify data processing.
Four MQTT JSON Payload Formats
The new MQTT JSON payload options allow users to choose how much information each published message contains:
- Single Value – The Single Value format publishes a single value or status. It is ideal for applications that need only one specific parameter and minimal payload size.
- Item – The Item format publishes the value and status of a monitored item in one MQTT message. This removes the need to process status information separately.
- Section – The Section format publishes all values and statuses from a selected section. It helps users collect related information without sending the full device status.
- Full Device Status – The Full Device Status format publishes all values and statuses from the controller. This includes inputs, relays, MODBUS data, and alarms. This option is useful for dashboards, cloud platforms, and data collection systems that need a complete device snapshot.
Why Flexible MQTT JSON Payloads Matter
Different applications have different requirements. Some systems need only a few measurements. Others need complete device information for visualization, analytics, alarm processing, or long-term storage. With the new MQTT JSON payload options, users can optimize the amount of transmitted data. They can match the payload to the needs of their application. This reduces unnecessary message traffic. It also simplifies payload parsing and makes MQTT integrations easier to maintain.
Secure MQTT Communication
Firmware version 3.016 also adds support for MQTT certificates. The controller supports secure MQTT communication through server and client certificates. This enables integration with MQTT brokers and IoT platforms that require encrypted and authenticated connections. Users can manage certificates directly from the web interface. This makes configuration straightforward and helps maintain a high level of security.
Designed for Modern IoT Integrations
Flexible MQTT JSON payloads and certificate-based authentication make TCW242 suitable for many Industrial IoT applications. Users can connect TCW242 to leading IoT platforms and MQTT solutions. These include AWS IoT Core, Microsoft Azure IoT, HiveMQ, ThingsBoard, Node-RED, and MQTT Explorer. These platforms can benefit from the flexible payload structure and secure MQTT communication supported by the controller. TCW242 is suitable for cloud monitoring, industrial dashboards, SCADA integration, data collection, and custom software development. It gives users greater control over how MQTT data is sent and secured. The latest enhancements simplify integration. They also give users the flexibility to choose the most efficient payload structure for their application. Learn more about TCW242 and download the latest firmware here: TCW242 product page.