DFRobot
RS-232 to RS-485 Converter
A passive RS-232 to RS-485 converter that extends serial communication distance up to 1.2km using balanced differential signalling. Self-powered from the RS-...
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A passive RS-232 to RS-485 converter that extends serial communication distance up to 1.2km using balanced differential signalling. Self-powered from the RS-232 TX/RX or RTS/CTS lines — no external power supply required. Features opto-isolation and lightning/surge protection for reliable industrial communication.
The RS-232 side uses a DB9 female connector, while the RS-485 side provides both a DB9 male connector and a 4-position screw terminal block.
Key Features
- Passive Operation – Self-powered from RS-232 signal lines, no external power needed
- Opto-Isolation – Electrically isolated for noise immunity
- Surge Protection – Lightning and surge protectors built in
- 1.2km Range – Extends RS-485 communication up to 1,200m over twisted pair
- Dual RS-485 Connectors – DB9 male and 4-position screw terminal block
- 300–115,200 bps – Supports standard baud rates
Specifications
- Standards: EIA/TIA RS-232 and RS-485
- Working Mode: Asynchronous, half-duplex, differential transmission
- Transmission Media: Twisted pair or shielded twisted pair
- Baud Rate: 300–115,200 bps
- RS-485 Range: Up to 1,200m
- RS-232 Range: Up to 5m
- Operating Temperature: -25°C to 70°C
- Humidity: 5%–95%
- Dimensions: 82.6 × 31.8 × 15.2mm (3.25" × 1.25" × 0.6")
- Weight: 36g
- Compliance: CE, FCC, RoHS
Ideal For
- Extending RS-232 serial devices over long distances
- Industrial sensor communication (RS-485 bus)
- Building automation and SCADA systems
Package Contents
- 1× RS-232 to RS-485 Converter
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- baud
- Baud is the signalling rate of a serial connection, often used as the speed setting for UART communication. Matching the baud rate matters because both connected devices must use the same setting for readable data.
- CTS
- CTS stands for Clear To Send, a serial flow-control signal that tells the other device it may transmit. It matters for reliable high-speed serial communication where buffers could otherwise overflow.
- RS-232
- RS-232 is an older serial communication standard that uses higher, inverted signal voltages (typically around plus or minus 3 to 15 volts) rather than the low logic levels of modern microcontroller pins. When connecting RS-232 equipment to a microcontroller, you usually need an RS-232 transceiver or level converter rather than wiring it directly, or you risk damaging the pins.
- RTS
- RTS stands for Request To Send, a serial flow-control signal used to manage when a device is ready to receive data. It matters when moving fast serial streams because flow control can help prevent lost data.
- RX
- RX means receive, usually showing data being received by the board. An RX indicator LED can help with troubleshooting USB or serial communication.
- SCADA
- SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, a type of system used to monitor and control industrial processes from computers or control rooms. SCADA compatibility matters when a device needs to report to or take commands from such a larger central control or automation setup.
- Terminal block
- A terminal block is a connector that joins wires together in a neat, removable, or serviceable way, usually clamping each wire under a screw or spring instead of soldering. It makes it easier to connect, change, or service wiring without permanent joints.
- TX
- TX means transmit, usually showing data being sent from the board. A TX indicator LED can help you see when the board is communicating or uploading code.
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Prototyping & Wiring
Supplier page — dfrobot.com
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