1. Introduction
The UOTEK UT-850N is a universal USB to RS-485/422 converter designed to bridge modern computing systems with industrial equipment utilizing RS-485/422 interfaces. This device facilitates seamless data transmission between your PC and RS-485/422 compatible devices without requiring an external power supply. It converts USB signals to balanced differential RS-485/422 signals, ensuring reliable communication in various environments.
Key features include surge and ESD protection, high-speed data transmission, automatic data flow control, and plug-and-play functionality across multiple operating systems. The UT-850N supports both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communication, allowing connection to up to 32 RS-422 or RS-485 devices.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items are present and in good condition upon opening the package:
- 1 x UOTEK UT-850N USB to RS485/RS422 Converter Cable
- 1 x Terminal Block (for DB9 connection)
- 1 x Instruction Manual (this document)
3. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Standards | USBV1.1, RS-485/422 EIA |
| USB Signal | VCC, DATA+, DATA-, GND, FG |
| RS-485 Signal | T+, T-, GND |
| RS-422 Signal | T+, T-, R+, R-, GND |
| Working Mode | Asynchronous, point-to-point or point-to-multipoint, 2-wire half-duplex or 4-wire full-duplex |
| Direction Control | Automatic data flow direction control technology |
| Baud Rate | 300-921.6Kbps (auto-detect serial signal) |
| Loading Capacity | Supports up to 32 sets of RS-422 or RS-485 devices in point-to-multipoint mode |
| Transmission Distance | 5,000m (9,600bps) for RS-485/422; up to 5m for USB |
| Port Protection | Surge protection, ±15KV ESD protection |
| Connectors | USB-A male, DB9 male |
| Transmission Media | Twisted-pair or shielded cable |
| Cable Length | 1.5 meters (approximately 4.92 feet) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 75°C (-4°F to 167°F) |
| Relative Humidity | 5% to 95% (non-condensing) |
| Supported Operating Systems | Win2000/2003/2008/2012/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10/CE/Mac/Linux |
4. Setup and Installation
The UOTEK UT-850N is designed for plug-and-play operation, typically requiring no manual driver installation on most modern operating systems. Follow these steps to set up your converter:
- Connect to PC: Plug the USB-A male connector of the UT-850N into an available USB port on your computer.
- Driver Installation (Automatic): Your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) should automatically detect the device and install the necessary drivers. This process may take a few moments.
- Verify Installation: Once installed, the device should appear in your system's Device Manager (Windows) or equivalent system information utility.
- Connect to RS-485/422 Device: Connect the DB9 male connector of the UT-850N to your RS-485 or RS-422 compatible device. Use the provided terminal block for screw-terminal connections if your device requires it.
- Observe Indicator Lights: The converter features indicator lights for Power (PWR), Transmitting (TXD), and Receiving (RXD) to confirm operational status.
5. Operating Modes
The UT-850N supports various communication modes for flexibility in different applications:
- Asynchronous Communication: Standard serial communication without a shared clock signal.
- Point-to-Point: Direct connection between two devices.
- Point-to-Multipoint: Allows one master device to communicate with up to 32 slave devices.
- 2-Wire Half-Duplex (RS-485): Data transmission in one direction at a time over two wires.
- 4-Wire Full-Duplex (RS-422): Simultaneous data transmission in both directions over four wires.
The device features internal zero-delay auto receiving and transmitting functions, along with unique I/O circuit auto control data flow direction, eliminating the need for handshake signals (RTS, DTR) or jumper settings for duplex modes.
6. Wiring Diagrams and Pin Assignments
Correct wiring is crucial for proper operation. Refer to the diagrams and pin assignments below for connecting your RS-485/422 devices.
DB9 Male Output Signal and Terminal Block Pin Assignment:
| DB9 Pin | Output Signal | RS-422 Full-Duplex Connection | RS-485 Half-Duplex Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | T/R+ | TX(A+) | RS-485 (A+) |
| 2 | T/R- | TX(B-) | RS-485 (B-) |
| 3 | RXD+ | RX(A+) | - |
| 4 | RXD- | RX(B-) | - |
| 5 | GND | GND | GND |
| 6 | N/A | ||
| 7 | N/A | ||
| 8 | N/A | ||
| 9 | N/A |
USB-A Signal Input and Pin Assignment:
| Pin | Signal |
|---|---|
| 1 | VCC |
| 2 | DATA- (IDM) |
| 3 | DATA+ (IDP) |
| 4 | GND |
7. Device Compatibility
The UT-850N converter is designed to work with a wide range of devices and operating systems, making it suitable for various applications including:
- Modems
- Thermal printers
- FCR (Fiscal Cash Registers)
- Set-top boxes
- PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants)
- Numerical control machines
- Industrial instruments
- And other RS-485/422 compatible equipment.
8. Key Features
- High Compatibility Chipset: Utilizes a PL series chipset for high compatibility and stability.
- Magnetic Filter: Integrated magnetic filter on the USB cable provides anti-interference capabilities, ensuring stable data transmission.
- Surge and ESD Protection: Each wire is equipped with surge protection and ±15KV ESD protection to safeguard against electrical damage.
- Indicator Lights: Clear LED indicators for Power (PWR), Transmitting (TXD), and Receiving (RXD) for easy status monitoring.
- Robust Cable Construction: Features a tin-plated copper core, filter shielding, woven net, and transparent PVC cover for durability and signal integrity.
9. User Tips
- For optimal performance, ensure the USB cable is not excessively bent or strained.
- When connecting to multiple devices in a point-to-multipoint setup, verify that each device is properly terminated and addressed to avoid data collisions.
- If experiencing communication issues, try connecting the converter to a different USB port on your computer or restarting your system.
- Always refer to the wiring diagrams for correct pin assignments to prevent damage to the converter or connected devices.
10. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your UT-850N converter, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power Indicator (PWR LED off):
- Ensure the USB connector is fully inserted into a working USB port on your computer.
- Try a different USB port or a different computer to rule out port issues.
- No Data Transmission (TXD/RXD LEDs not blinking):
- Verify that the RS-485/422 device is powered on and functioning correctly.
- Check all wiring connections according to the diagrams in Section 6. Incorrect wiring is a common cause of communication failure.
- Confirm that the baud rate and other serial communication parameters (data bits, stop bits, parity) are correctly configured in your software to match the connected device.
- Ensure no other software is attempting to use the same COM port.
- Intermittent Communication:
- Check for loose connections on both the USB and DB9 ends.
- Ensure the cable is not exposed to excessive electromagnetic interference. The integrated magnetic filter helps, but strong external sources can still cause issues.
- For long RS-485/422 runs, ensure proper termination resistors are used on the bus, if required by your setup.
- Device Not Recognized by OS:
- Disconnect and reconnect the USB cable.
- Try connecting to a different USB port.
- Restart your computer.
- If automatic driver installation fails, you may need to manually download drivers from the UOTEK official website (if available for your specific OS version).
If problems persist after trying these steps, please contact UOTEK customer support for further assistance.
11. Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your UOTEK UT-850N converter, please follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Storage: Store the converter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Handling: Avoid dropping the device or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not pull on the cable to disconnect it; always grasp the connector.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the device within the specified temperature and humidity ranges (-20°C to 75°C, 5% to 95% relative humidity).
- Cable Integrity: Regularly inspect the cable for any signs of damage, such as cuts, fraying, or kinks. Replace if damaged.
12. Warranty and Support
UOTEK products typically come with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For technical problems or warranty claims, please contact UOTEK customer support. Our engineers are available to assist you with any technical issues.
Contact Information: Please refer to the seller's platform or UOTEK's official website for the most current contact details.
13. Certifications
The UOTEK UT-850N converter complies with various international standards and certifications, ensuring quality and safety:
- CE
- FCC
- RoHS
- Quality Management System (GB/T 19001-2016 idt ISO 9001:2015)
- Environmental Management System (GB/T 28001 idt ISO 14001:2015)
- Occupational Health & Safety Management System (GB/T 45001-2020 idt ISO 45001:2018)
14. Product Overview Video
Watch this video for a visual overview of the UOTEK UT-850N USB to RS485/RS422 Converter, showcasing its features and components.
