Serial communications in its various forms – RS232, RS422 and RS485 – have been the communications methods of choice for most industrial machines since the beginning of industrial computerisation.
RS232 was suitable for short distance communications for terminals and printers but was unreliable over long distances and where interference from high-voltage machines occurred. RS485 replaced RS232 for long distance communications and was not affected by high voltage fluctuations in nearby cables and machines. RS485 also had the capability for multidropping of devices along the way.
Today there are many legacy machines which still have RS232 and RS485 communications requirements. However, many modern PCs do not have serial ports and Ethernet, USB and fibre-optic are becoming more popular for communications. The wiring of a factory, building or extended plant for communications can become a major headache for the IT department and plant engineers.
Fortunately there are solutions available in the form of serial and USB servers which can be connected to the company’s Ethernet network or even operate wirelessly. These servers with multiple serial or USB ports can be connected to the Ethernet network and addressed by any computer on the network. It is also possible to use Power over Ethernet (POE) to power these servers and reduce cable installation costs. Only the POE communication cables have to be pulled rather than power and communication cables.
The use of wireless communications to these servers makes it possible to deploy them quickly and easily wherever required, without the hassle of cabling to the point at which they are installed. The only requirement is power for the serial server.
An example of such a device is the ORing model IDS-5011-WG which is a single-port RS232/422/485 wireless server. ORing offers a range of Ethernet and wireless servers for serial and USB, which allow devices using these protocols to be deployed on any Ethernet network or remotely using wireless communications. With multiple port units it is possible to connect several units to a single serial server but access the individual units from multiple computers connected to the Ethernet network.
Simplifying system design iCorp Technologies
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The FGMC63N tri-band MCU Wi-Fi 6E module from Quectel addresses offers integrated connectivity across 2,4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands in a compact, highly optimised design.
Read more...Dragino’s connectivity catalogue Otto Wireless Solutions
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Where Wi-Fi demands frequent charging and covers tens of meters, and traditional cellular consumes too much power for battery-operated nodes, LoRaWAN threads the needle.
Read more...RF filters explained RFiber Solutions
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
As RF environments become increasingly crowded, RF filters play a critical role in maintaining signal quality, improving system performance, and ensuring reliable operation.
Read more...Practical design strategies for 5G RF Design
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Cavli CQM211 aims to provide a platform that combines strong 5G connectivity with onboard compute capability, as well as interface flexibility that suits both new designs and rapid migrations from earlier products.
Read more...An industry-first Android 16 smart module solution RF Design
Computer/Embedded Technology Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The MeiG Smart SLM580 4G Smart Module features native support for Android 16 and covers core frequency bands in major countries and regions worldwide.
Read more...High performance RF signal conditioning RFiber Solutions
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The AM3269 from Mercury Systems is a high-performance RF preselector module designed to improve receiver sensitivity and signal integrity in demanding electronic warfare, signals intelligence, test, and communications applications.
Read more...RF filters explained RFiber Solutions
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
As RF environments become increasingly crowded, RF filters play a critical role in maintaining signal quality, improving system performance, and ensuring reliable operation.
Read more...Industrial connectivity without compromise
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The IR315 combines 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and VPN technologies into a rugged, industrial-grade platform that enables seamless connectivity across a wide range of applications.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version