USB RS485 and USB RS422 - Generally.
The USB to RS485 and USB to RS422 serial adapters, also called USB to RS485 / USB to RS422 converters, are small electronic devices used for converting a USB signal to either RS485 or RS422. Some of these adapters can convert only USB to RS485 or USB to RS422 but others can convert both USB to RS485 and USB to RS422. All convert bi-directionally meaning they convert the data signal in both directions.
These USB to RS485 and USB to RS422 adapters are most often used for connection a RS485 or RS422 device to a personal computer. Since most computers do not have a RS485 or RS422 port, but they do have a USB port, you can use a USB to RS485 or USB to RS422 adapter to interface between your computer and your device.
The USB to RS485 and USB to RS422 adapter is made in a variety of models and designs. The standard USB to RS485 / USB to RS422 adapter is a non-isolated adapter which is used for many business, office and personal devices. The isolated USB to RS485 / USB to RS422 adapter is used in many industrial and business environments since these are resistant to moderate voltage spikes and noise levels.
Choosing the correct USB to RS485 or USB to RS422 adapter is often a fairly easy task since most USB to RS485 / USB to RS422 adapters work within a range of multiple settings. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a USB RS484 or USB RS422 adapter is if you need a standard or industrial strength USB to RS485 or USB to RS422 adapter and whether it needs to be isolated or non-isolated.
USB to RS485 is known for its multi-drop characteristics, meaning you can use USB RS485 for connecting multiple RS485 devices in a two-wire network. USB to RS422 is often used for extending a RS232 wire with a USB to RS422 adapter in each end of the RS232 wire.
