1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, configuration, and operation of the MOXA NPort 5232 2-port RS-422/485 Device Server. The NPort 5232 is designed to connect serial devices to an Ethernet network, enabling remote access and management of industrial equipment.
2. Product Overview
The MOXA NPort 5232 is a compact and robust serial device server, featuring two RS-422/485 serial ports and a 10/100M Ethernet port. It is equipped with a terminal block for power input and serial connections, and offers 15KV ESD protection for reliable operation in industrial environments.
Figure 2.1: MOXA NPort 5232 Device Server
This image displays the MOXA NPort 5232 device server. Visible features include the MOXA branding, power input (V-, V+, 12-48V=), LED indicators (Ready, Link, P1, P2), a Reset button, a 10/100M Ethernet port, and two RS-422/485 serial ports (P1 and P2) with terminal block connections for T+, T-, R+/D+, R-/D-, and GND. The device is black with green terminal blocks and mounting brackets on the sides.
2.1. Key Components
- Power Input: Terminal block for 12-48VDC power.
- LED Indicators:
- Ready: Indicates device operational status.
- Link: Indicates Ethernet link status.
- P1, P2: Indicate serial port activity.
- Reset Button: For device reset.
- Ethernet Port: 10/100M for network connection.
- Serial Ports (P1, P2): Two RS-422/485 ports with terminal block connectors.
3. Features
- Supports 10/100M Ethernet connectivity.
- Compact design for easy installation in various environments.
- Multiple socket modes: TCP server, TCP client, and UDP.
- Easy-to-use Windows utility for configuring multiple device servers.
- Patented ADDC (Automatic Data Direction Control) for 2-wire and 4-wire RS-485 communication.
- SNMP MIB-II support for network management.
- 15KV ESD protection for enhanced reliability.
- Wide operating temperature range: 0 to 55°C.
4. Setup
4.1. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- MOXA NPort 5232 Device Server
- Power Adapter (if included with "w/Adapter" model)
- Documentation (Quick Installation Guide, Warranty Card)
4.2. Hardware Installation
- Mounting: Secure the NPort 5232 to a panel or DIN-rail using the integrated mounting brackets.
- Power Connection: Connect a 12-30VDC power source to the V- and V+ terminals on the device's terminal block. Ensure correct polarity.
- Ethernet Connection: Connect a standard Ethernet cable from your network switch or router to the 10/100M Ethernet port on the NPort 5232.
- Serial Device Connection: Connect your RS-422 or RS-485 serial devices to the P1 and P2 terminal blocks. Refer to the pin assignments below for correct wiring:
- RS-422: T+ (Transmit+), T- (Transmit-), R+/D+ (Receive+/Data+), R-/D- (Receive-/Data-), GND (Ground)
- RS-485 (4-wire): T+ (Transmit+), T- (Transmit-), R+/D+ (Receive+/Data+), R-/D- (Receive-/Data-), GND (Ground)
- RS-485 (2-wire): R+/D+ (Data+), R-/D- (Data-), GND (Ground)
4.3. Software Configuration
Use the MOXA NPort Windows utility for initial configuration. This utility allows you to:
- Discover NPort devices on your network.
- Assign IP addresses and network settings.
- Configure serial port parameters (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, flow control).
- Set up operation modes (TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP).
Refer to the MOXA NPort Series User's Manual (available on the Moxa website) for detailed software configuration instructions.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. LED Indicators
Monitor the LED indicators for device status:
- Ready LED:
- Solid Green: Device is powered on and operating normally.
- Flashing Green: Device is booting up or undergoing self-test.
- Link LED:
- Solid Green: Ethernet link is established.
- Flashing Green: Data activity on the Ethernet port.
- P1/P2 LEDs:
- Flashing Green: Data activity on the corresponding serial port.
5.2. Data Communication
Once configured, the NPort 5232 facilitates transparent data communication between your serial devices and the Ethernet network. Data sent to the serial port will be encapsulated and transmitted over Ethernet, and vice-versa.
The patented ADDC feature automatically detects the data direction for RS-485 2-wire and 4-wire modes, simplifying configuration and ensuring reliable data flow.
6. Maintenance
The MOXA NPort 5232 is designed for robust operation with minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure longevity:
- Cleaning: Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Environment: Ensure the device operates within its specified temperature (0 to 55°C) and humidity ranges. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, excessive heat, or moisture.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Moxa website for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and security.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your NPort 5232, consider the following:
- No Power:
- Check the power supply connection and ensure it provides 12-30VDC.
- Verify the power adapter is functioning correctly.
- No Ethernet Link:
- Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the NPort and the network device.
- Check the network switch/router for proper operation.
- Verify the Link LED on the NPort is solid green.
- No Serial Communication:
- Verify serial cable connections and pin assignments (RS-422/485).
- Check serial port settings (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, flow control) in the NPort configuration utility to match your serial device.
- Ensure the P1/P2 LEDs flash during data transmission.
- Device Unreachable on Network:
- Confirm the NPort's IP address and subnet mask are correctly configured and compatible with your network.
- Use the NPort Windows utility to discover the device.
- Temporarily disable firewalls on your PC for testing.
- Resetting the Device: If issues persist, press the Reset button to restore factory default settings (refer to the full user manual for specific reset procedures).
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | NPort 5232 |
| Ethernet Ports | 1 x 10/100 Mbps (Auto-sensing) |
| Serial Ports | 2 x RS-422/485 (Terminal Block) |
| Input Voltage | 12-30 VDC |
| ESD Protection | 15 KV |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55°C (32 to 131°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F) |
| Humidity | 5 to 95% RH (non-condensing) |
| Dimensions | 7.09 x 4.72 x 1.97 inches (approximate) |
| Weight | 2.2 Pounds (approximate) |
| Mounting | Panel Mount |
| Material | Plastic |
| Color | Black |
9. Warranty and Support
MOXA products are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty information included with your product or visit the official Moxa website.
For technical support, product documentation, and software downloads, please visit the Moxa official website and navigate to the support section for the NPort 5232 model.
