Converting data or extending its reach doesn't have to be a headache. Anyone dealing with RS232, RS422 or RS485 serial data communication, USB, Ethernet or TTL will occasionally have to convert and/or between them, extend reach, or add isolation. That's just in the nature of the game, and that's what serial converters, adapters and repeaters are for. Let's take a look at the various types that are available.
Serial RS232 to RS485 converters convert signals between any standard full duplex RS-232C port to any two-wire balanced half duplex RS-485 port. These converters are port-powered and do not need external power. They are usually plug-and-play (meaning you don't need to set or configure anything), and they have built-in surge protection, static protection and surge protection. These converters are available in 9-pin and 25-pin format and are usually also available in industrial grade versions that can handle higher temperatures, more abuse, and they can be used with terminal blocks instead of just DB-9 or DB-25. There are also opto-isolated converters that use optical isolation circuitry to protect from transient surges, ground loop and remote lightning. There are also special powered opto-isolated units that can go from RS232 to RS422 or RS485
Serial RS232 to RS422 converters convert signals between a standard full duplex RS232C port and any four-wire balanced full duplex RS422 port. These converters are also port-powered and there is no need for an external power adapter. They, too, are usually plug-and-play so you don't have to set or configure anything. Most good ones have built-in surge and static protection. These converters are available for use with either 9-pin or 25-pin connectors and are usually also available in industrial grade versions that can handle higher temperatures, more abuse, and they can be used with terminal blocks instead of just DB-9 or DB-25.
Serial RS232 or RS485 to TTL converters communicate between a standard full duplex RS232C port or a RS485 port and also 3.3 or 5 Volt TTL devices. TTL stands for Transistor -Transistor Logic and is a standard defined back in the early 1960s, but still used today. These converters, again, are port-powered and do not need additional external power. They are usually plug-and-play so you can start using them right away without any configuration, and they are generally protected against surges and static discharge.
Opto-Isolated converters and surge suppressors include isolators that simply provide optical isolation to guard against transient surges, ground loop and remote lightning. These isolators are available in different configurations ranging from models with just three wires or seven or more wires for connections that require it. Opto-isolated converters are more expensive, but the extra investment buys peace of mind at a small extra investment.
Serial data repeaters can greatly enhance the maximum distance of RS232 lines, therefore acting as RS232 extenders. Repeaters can also come in the form of combined converters and repeaters. These can be a very inexpensive way of solving distance problems.
For mixed serial/USB environments, there are various types of adapters that convert from USB to RS232, RS422, RS485 or various voltage TTL. These adapters are usually all port-powered and do not need external AC adapters. If needed, they are also available with industrial terminal blocks.
Fiber optic media converters convert from RS32, RS422, RS485 or Ethernet to fiber optic media. They are available for single mode or multi mode fiber and they are usually available with ST (Straight Tip) or SC (Subscriber Connector) connectors. Fiber optic can greatly extend the reach of serial connections, up to over 12 miles with single fiber links.
Bottom line: Pretty much everything connects with everything else in the RS232/RS422/RS485/USB world of serial communication. Converters are inexpensive (usually US$30-60, except for optic media converters, which cost more).
To learn more about subjects like RS485 Converters please visit the web site at: http://www.rs232-converters.com
For more information and informative related articles and links about this subject matter and content, please visit Majon's Communication | Wifi Wireless directory: http://www.majon.com/directory/communication-wifi-wireless. Also visit our Shopping Directory Marketplace for more related sites.
About the Author
Chris Robertson is a published author of Majon International. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2011 (Fri Jan 29 2010) Majon International. Majon International is one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing and internet advertising companies on the web. Visit their main business resource internet marketing web site at: http://www.majon.com
