Serial to Ethernet adapter (RS232, RS485) - Ultimate
The Bit Commander™ is our latest addition to our line of serial to ethernet adapters, and it is one of the most reliable and solid ethernet converters you will find of this type. It is an all-round product with basic functions but also has several advanced features and functions which are rarely seen in adapters at this price range. It is ideal for most applications and environments including consumer, office, laboratory, commercial and even complex industrial applications.
Our ethernet solutions are designed to link legacy serial devices to modern Ethernet networks, ensuring seamless communication and enhanced operational efficiency.
What is a Serial to Ethernet Adapter?
A Serial to Ethernet Adapter is a device that enables the connection of serial devices to an Ethernet network, allowing for the transmission of serial data over the network. These adapters convert serial data signals into Ethernet packets and vice versa, enabling seamless communication between serial devices and devices on the Ethernet network. Serial to Ethernet Adapters are ideal for applications where serial devices need to be connected to a local area network or accessed remotely over the internet. This capability is particularly useful in environments where remote access and management of serial devices are required, enhancing both flexibility and efficiency.
Types of Serial to Ethernet Adapters
There are several types of Serial to Ethernet Adapters available, each designed to meet specific needs:
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Device Servers: These adapters provide a single serial port and are designed for connecting a single serial device to an Ethernet network. They are ideal for simple setups where only one serial device needs to be networked.
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Terminal Servers: These adapters offer multiple serial ports, making them suitable for connecting multiple serial devices to an Ethernet network. This is particularly useful in environments with numerous serial devices that need to be managed centrally.
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Console Servers: These adapters provide a single serial port and are specifically designed for connecting a serial console to an Ethernet network. They are commonly used in IT environments for remote management of network equipment.
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Industrial-Grade Adapters: Built for harsh industrial environments, these adapters offer features such as high-temperature operation and surge protection, ensuring reliable performance under extreme conditions.
Each type of adapter serves a unique purpose, allowing users to choose the best solution for their specific application needs.
ARM® Cortex™-M7 Processor with Serial Interfaces
The Bit Commander™ serial to ethernet adapter is designed around the ARM Cortex-M7 processor which makes this it an extremely reliable and high performance converter with several advanced functions. The Cortex-M7 processor incorporates multiple fail-safe and error detection features which ultimately results in less problems and more uptime.
Advanced Features for Serial Devices
As mentioned earlier the Bit Commander™ adapter has several advanced features usually not seen in this range of adapter, here are some of the features (please refer to the datasheet for all details):
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Modbus compatible.Industrial applications often use the Modbus protocol to communicate with serial devices. This converter is fully compatible with the ModBus TCP and RTU protocols.
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Both serial ports can be used individually at the same time.The Bit Commander™ has two serial ports, one RS232 port and one RS485 port, both ports can be used as individual COM ports and transfer two separate data streams at the same time. After installing the included Virtual COM Software two COM ports will be created in your computer’s Device Manager.
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Multiple Clients Support.Each serial port supports up to 8 simultaneous clients in TCP mode, meaning that 8 computers can connect to the converter at the same time. This is a nice feature to have if you have a large network with many clients.
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Web to Serial Mode.You can login to the adapter with a web browser over a network and read the serial data processed by the converter.
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Remote Reboot over TCP.If the serial to ethernet adapter for some reason should require a reboot because of a lock-up, for example due to a power outage or similar, it can be rebooted remotely over TCP by sending a HEX code to the converter. This is a very convenient feature if the converter is located far away.
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Other Special Functions:
Just to mention a few of the minor features:
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Supports non-standard baud rates
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Baud rates 600 to 230400 bps
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Hardware flow control RTS/CTS
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Software flow control XON/XOFF
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Adjustable timeout counter
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Adjustable module ID and ID type
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Virtual serial ports for seamless communication
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Serial device server for remote monitoring and control
Please see the datasheet and user manual for more details.
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.

Overall features
- Highly reliable ARM Cortex-M7 processor
- Industrial strength
- RS232 and RS485 ports
- Serial ports can be used simultaneously
- Advanced functions and features
- Virtual COM port software included
- Modbus support
- Configurable via web-browser and software
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Resources
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SPECIFICATIONS |
Model number |
US2000B (versions HB /RT) aka Bit Commander™ |
Operating system
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Virtual COM software included for:
Windows 11 32/64-bit, Windows 10 32/64-bit, Windows 8 32/64-bit, Windows 7 32/64-bit, Vista, XP |
Processor |
Texas Instruments ARM® Cortex™-M7, 400 Mhz |
No. of serial ports |
1 port RS-232, male DB9
1 port RS485 screw terminal
Ports can be used individually at the same time.
PORT0 represent RS232, PORT1 represent RS485. |
RS-232 Signals |
- TX, RX, RTS, CTS, GND
- Parity: None, Odd, Even
- Data bits : 7, 8
- Stop bits : 1, 2 |
Flow Control |
RS232: Hardware (RTS/CTS), Software (XON/XOFF), None
RS485: Automatic Send Control, Software (XON/XOFF), None |
RS-485 Signals |
Data+ , Data-, GND |
Baud rates |
Port 0 (RS232): 600 - 230400 bps
Port 1 (RS485): 600 - 230400 bps
Non-standard baud rates supported |
Serial buffer size |
Dynamic packet cache |
Serial package time |
1 - 255 ms |
Serial package length |
1 - 1460 bytes |
LAN port |
RJ45, Auto-MDI/MIDX, 2KV isolation |
Protocols |
TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP, UDP Server, HTTPD Client, DHCP, Web to serial, TCP Auto, ModBus TCP/RTU, UDP Multicast |
Parameter management |
Web-browser or software utility (over WiFi) |
Modbus |
Yes (TCP and RTU) |
Max number of clients. This is how many computers that can access the converter simultaneously |
16 clients for each port in TCP mode. |
Power |
5 - 36VDC |
Current draw |
5VDC: 95mA max
12VDC: 43mA max
36VDC: 16mA max |
Operating Temp. |
-13°F to 176°F (-25°C to 80°C) |
Dimensions |
80 x 83 x 25mm |
Approvals |
CE, FCC, ROHS |
Warranty |
1 year Limited Warranty |
For alternative serial to Ethernet solutions please see our full selection of serial Ethernet converters.
Connecting Remote Serial Devices to Ethernet Networks
Serial to Ethernet Adapters enable the connection of remote serial devices to Ethernet networks, facilitating remote access and management. This is particularly advantageous in applications where serial devices are located in remote or hard-to-reach locations, such as industrial control systems or medical devices. By connecting these devices to an Ethernet network, users can access and manage them remotely, significantly reducing the need for physical access. This not only enhances productivity but also ensures that critical devices can be monitored and controlled from anywhere, providing greater flexibility and efficiency in operations.
Applications of Serial to Ethernet Adapters
Serial to Ethernet Adapters have a wide range of applications across various industries:
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Industrial Automation: These adapters are used to connect serial devices such as PLCs, sensors, and actuators to Ethernet networks, enabling remote monitoring and control of industrial processes.
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Medical Devices: In the healthcare sector, these adapters connect medical devices like patient monitors and diagnostic equipment to Ethernet networks, allowing for remote monitoring and management, which is crucial for patient care.
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Transportation Systems: Serial to Ethernet Adapters are employed in transportation systems to connect serial devices such as traffic management systems and rail control systems to Ethernet networks, facilitating remote monitoring and control.
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Point-of-Sale Systems: In retail environments, these adapters connect serial devices such as credit card readers and receipt printers to Ethernet networks, enabling efficient remote management and monitoring of point-of-sale systems.
These examples illustrate the versatility and importance of Serial to Ethernet Adapters in various fields, highlighting their role in enhancing connectivity and control.
Choosing the Right Serial to Ethernet Adapter
When selecting a Serial to Ethernet Adapter, several factors should be considered to ensure reliable and efficient communication between serial devices and Ethernet networks:
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Number of Serial Ports: Determine how many serial devices need to be connected to the Ethernet network. This will help in choosing between device servers, terminal servers, and other types.
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Type of Serial Interface: Identify the type of serial interface required, such as RS232, RS485, or RS422, to ensure compatibility with your serial devices.
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Ethernet Interface: Consider the type of Ethernet interface needed, such as 10/100M or Gigabit, based on your network requirements.
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Operating System Compatibility: Ensure the adapter supports the operating system you are using, whether it’s Windows, Linux, or macOS.
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Flow Control: Determine if flow control is necessary for your application, and if so, whether hardware (RTS/CTS) or software (XON/XOFF) flow control is required.
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Virtual COM Port: Assess if a virtual COM port is needed, especially for legacy applications that require traditional serial port communication.
By carefully evaluating these factors, users can select the right Serial to Ethernet Adapter for their specific needs, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance in their networked environment.