Serial Device Server (RS232) - Industrial

Industrial DIN rail converters used to cost a lot in the old days, fortunately things has changed. Cutting edge technology and streamlined production lines has made industrial grade converters cheaper without sacrificing quality. With this in mind we here present our new DIN rail mountable RS232 serial device server. Perfect for building into electrical control cabinets, racks and enclosures of any kind which has a DIN rail.

Serial Device Server: An Overview of ARM® Cortex™-M Processor

This RS232 serial device server is designed around a 32-bit microcontroller (STM32F0) from STMicroelectronics containing a ARM® Cortex®-M processor, which makes this converter a modern high performance, reliable solution with all basic functions and several expanded/advanced functions. In the context of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), serial device servers play a crucial role in connecting legacy serial devices with modern network systems. Ideal for most industrial and commercial applications and environments.

Overview

A serial device server is a crucial component in modern industrial automation, enabling seamless communication between serial devices and Ethernet networks. These servers convert RS-232/422/485 serial signals to TCP/IP network signals, facilitating transparent two-way data transmission between serial devices and the network. With the ability to support multiple serial protocols, serial device servers provide a high-speed data transfer rate of up to 230.4 KBPS, making them an ideal solution for industrial applications. Whether you are dealing with legacy serial equipment or modern serial devices, these servers ensure reliable and efficient data exchange across your Ethernet network.

Basic Features

All basic functions of a standard serial device server are supported, which includes the following:

• DHCP and Static IP address.
  By default the converter is set to have a static IP address, this can be changed to DHCP so your network or computer automatically assigns an IP to the converter.

• Serial port settings.
  All standard port settings such as baud rate, parity, data bits, and stop bits can be set within the standard range, allowing for the connection of multiple serial ports (RS-232/422/485) to the network.

• Parameter configuration via web-browser.
  All parameters can easily be changed by logging into the converter using a standard web-browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Internet Explorer. This can be done on a local network, or from a remote location using a 3rd party DNS service.

• Network modes.
  The converter can be set to the most commonly used network modes which includes: TCP Client, UDP Client, TCP Server, UDP Server or HTTPD Client mode.

• Virtual COM port software.
  To create a virtual COM port with any serial to Ethernet converter you will need a virtual COM port software. With this converter it is a full function free downloadable software. No extra cost.

Architecture

The architecture of a serial device server typically consists of a serial interface, an Ethernet interface, and a processor that manages data transmission between the two. The serial interface supports various serial protocols, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, while the Ethernet interface provides a connection to the network. The processor ensures that data is transmitted efficiently and reliably, with features such as automatic data conversion control and baud rate support up to 230.4 KBPS. This robust architecture allows the device server to handle multiple serial devices simultaneously, ensuring low latency and high performance in data communication.

Expanded Functions for Serial Device Servers

Since this serial device server has been designed with the ARM® Cortex® STM32 microcontroller mentioned earlier it has been possible to incorporate a few expanded/advanced functions, usually not seen in this range of converter, here are some of the functions (please refer to the datasheet for all details):

• Number of connected clients.
  This function lets you manually select how many clients (max 8) you will allow to connect to the converter simultaneously. Very useful for control and security of the connected devices.

• Heartbeat packet function.
  A heartbeat packet can be sent to either the TCP port or the serial port to keep the connection open.

• Registration packet function.
  A registration packet can be sent to the server to identify the data source device or to obtain a password for the server authorization. The package can be sent to establish the connection, when carrying data or both. It can be created by MAC register or self defined register.

• Impersistent connection.
  If there is no data reception in the serial port or network port within the set time, the connection will be automatically disconnected. Mainly used to save server resources.

• Reset, Link and Index.
  These are additional functions which manually can be enabled or disabled in the converters administration panel: Reset: if enabled the serial device server will automatically reset itself if the TCP connection has not been successfully built after a number of tries. Link: TCP connection status, connected or not connected. A pin on the PCB goes low if the connection is successful and high when unsuccessful. This function is only available on the PCB. Index: This function can be used to identify the server and client of the sent data if there are multiple servers and clients on the network.

• Other (lesser used) expanded functions:
• TCP kick-off old connection
• Buffer data before connected
• UART set parameter
• Reset timeout
• Synchronous baud rate RFC2217
• Please see datasheet and user manual for more details.

As a serial server, it facilitates data flow between various devices like sensors and PLCs, enabling remote monitoring and control, which leads to optimized production processes and increased operational efficiency.

Besides the features mentioned above this converter is also fully capable of handling more complex setups such as Serial Tunneling mode, communication without virtual COM software, access over Internet and more.

Useful optional accessories (not included)

Null modem adapter

DB9 - RJ45 adapter

Gender Changer

For alternative serial to Ethernet solutions please see our full selection of serial Ethernet converters.

Applications

Serial device servers have a wide range of applications in various industries, including industrial automation, intelligent transportation systems, power automation, and medical device connectivity. They enable remote access to serial devices across LAN/WAN networks, facilitating centralized monitoring and control of devices. Serial device servers also play a vital role in integrating disparate systems, such as lighting controls, HVAC systems, and security cameras, into a single platform. By providing a reliable and efficient means of connecting serial devices to an Ethernet network, these servers enhance operational efficiency and streamline data management in diverse industrial settings.

Security

Serial device servers often operate in harsh environments, making security a top priority. Many serial device servers come with built-in security features, such as SSL/TLS encryption, to ensure secure data transmission. Additionally, some serial device servers support secure protocols, such as HTTPS and SOCK5, to provide an extra layer of security. Furthermore, serial device servers can be configured to operate in a secure mode, such as server mode or client mode, to restrict access to authorized devices only. These security measures are essential for protecting sensitive serial data and ensuring the integrity of communication in industrial applications.