1. Introduction
The EBYTE NB114 is a versatile serial device server designed to facilitate seamless data conversion between serial interfaces (RS485, RS422, RS232) and Ethernet networks. This device enables various serial devices and PLCs to integrate into network environments, supporting multiple Modbus gateway modes and flexible operating configurations. Its compact design and rail-mount installation make it suitable for industrial and embedded applications.
2. Key Features
- Interface Support: Integrates serial ports (RS485, RS422, RS232) with an RJ45 Ethernet interface.
- Multiple Working Modes: Supports TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP Server, and UDP Client modes.
- Flexible Configuration: Parameters can be set via web page, dedicated configuration tool, or AT commands.
- Serial Port Parameters: Adjustable baud rates from 1200 to 230400 (default 115200), with support for None, Odd, Even, Mark, and Space verification.
- Network Functions: DHCP and DNS support for dynamic IP assignment and domain name resolution.
- Modbus Gateway: Offers simple protocol conversion, multi-host mode, storage gateway, and configurable gateway options.
- Virtual Serial Port: Enables PC-side software to communicate with networked devices as if they were directly connected via a serial port.
- Reliability Features: Includes timeout restart, short connection function, heartbeat package, registration package, and cache cleaning.
- Upgrade & Reset: Supports online firmware upgrades and hardware reset to factory settings.
- MQTT Protocol Support: Compatible with various cloud platforms like Huawei Cloud, Baidu Cloud, Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud, and oneNET.
- HTTP Client Support: Allows for POST/GET method communication with servers.
3. Product Overview and Dimensions
The NB114 device features clearly labeled serial and Ethernet ports, along with power input and status indicators. Understanding its physical layout is crucial for proper installation.
Figure 3.1: EBYTE NB114 Serial Device Server with key dimensions (82mm x 84mm x 25mm). This image shows the top view of the device, highlighting the RS232, RS485, Ethernet ports, power input (DC-IN), and status LEDs (PWR, DATA, LINK).
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to set up your EBYTE NB114 Serial Device Server:
- Power Connection: Connect a compatible DC power supply (VCC, GND) to the device's DC-IN terminal. Ensure the power supply voltage matches the device's requirements.
- Ethernet Connection: Connect the NB114 to your network router or switch using a standard RJ45 Ethernet cable. The device supports adaptive Ethernet.
- Serial Device Connection:
- RS232: Connect your RS232 device to the RS232 port.
- RS485: Connect your RS485 device to the 485-A(T+) and 485-B(T-) terminals.
- RS422: Connect your RS422 device to the R+, R-, T+, T- terminals.
- Initial Configuration Access:
Once powered and connected to the network, the device can be configured via its web interface or a dedicated configuration tool. Refer to the device's default IP address (usually found in the product documentation or by using a network scanner) to access the web interface. Alternatively, use the EBYTE configuration tool for initial setup.
5. Operating Modes and Configuration
The NB114 supports various operating modes to suit different application requirements.
5.1. TCP/UDP Working Modes
- TCP Server: The device listens for incoming TCP connections from clients. Once a connection is established, serial data is transmitted over TCP.
- TCP Client: The device actively initiates a TCP connection to a specified remote server. Serial data is sent to and received from this server.
- UDP Server: The device listens for UDP packets on a specified port. Serial data is sent as UDP packets, and received UDP packets are forwarded to the serial port.
- UDP Client: The device sends UDP packets to a specified remote IP address and port.
5.2. Modbus Gateway Functionality
The NB114 offers advanced Modbus gateway capabilities:
- Simple Protocol Conversion: Basic conversion between Modbus RTU/ASCII and Modbus TCP.
- Multi-Host Mode: Allows multiple Modbus TCP masters to access Modbus RTU/ASCII slaves.
- Storage Gateway: Caches data from Modbus slaves, reducing network traffic and improving response times.
- Configurable Gateway: Provides flexible mapping and routing rules for complex Modbus networks.
5.3. Virtual Serial Port Software
The virtual serial port feature allows legacy PC applications that expect a local serial port to communicate with devices connected to the NB114 over the network. This eliminates the need for application modifications.
Figure 5.1: Example of a virtual serial port software interface. This image illustrates how PC-side software can be configured to create a virtual COM port (e.g., COM2) that maps to a networked device via the NB114, enabling communication as if it were a physical serial connection.
5.4. MQTT Protocol Support
The NB114 can connect to various IoT cloud platforms using the MQTT protocol, enabling remote data collection and control.
Figure 5.2: Illustration of MQTT protocol support, showing connectivity to various cloud platforms such as Huawei Cloud, Baidu Cloud, Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud, and oneNET. This feature allows the NB114 to integrate with diverse IoT ecosystems.
5.5. HTTP Client Support
The device supports HTTP Client functionality, allowing it to send data to web servers using POST/GET methods.
Figure 5.3: Diagram illustrating HTTP Client support, where the NB114 communicates with a server using POST/GET methods. This enables web-based data exchange and control.
6. Maintenance
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates. The NB114 supports online upgrade functionality. Keeping the firmware updated ensures optimal performance and access to new features.
- Cleaning: Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the device operates within its specified temperature and humidity ranges to prevent damage.
- Hardware Reset: If necessary, the device supports a hardware reset to factory settings. Refer to the specific procedure in the full product manual for details on using the 'Reload' button or similar mechanism.
Figure 6.1: Diagram illustrating the remote upgrade function. This image shows the NB114 device connected via RJ45 Ethernet and serial ports (RS485/RS232/RS422), indicating its capability for remote firmware updates.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device not powering on. | Incorrect power supply voltage or faulty connection. | Verify power supply voltage and polarity. Ensure connections are secure. |
| No network connectivity. | Ethernet cable issue, incorrect IP settings, or network configuration problem. | Check Ethernet cable. Verify IP address, subnet mask, and gateway settings. Ensure DHCP is enabled if using dynamic IP. |
| Serial data not transmitting/receiving. | Incorrect serial port parameters (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits), wrong wiring, or incorrect operating mode. | Confirm serial port settings match the connected device. Check serial wiring. Ensure the NB114 is in the correct TCP/UDP operating mode. |
| Cannot access web configuration. | Incorrect IP address, network firewall, or browser issues. | Verify the device's IP address. Check local firewall settings. Try a different web browser. |
If problems persist, perform a hardware reset to factory settings and reconfigure the device. If the issue remains, contact EBYTE technical support.
8. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | NB114 |
| Interface Signals | Serial port (RS485, RS422, RS232), Network port (RJ45) |
| Product Dimensions | 82mm x 84mm x 25mm |
| Product Weight | 126g ± 5g |
| Serial Port Baud Rate | 1200 - 230400 bps (default 115200) |
| Serial Port Verification | None, Odd, Even, Mark, Space |
| Working Modes | TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP Server, UDP Client |
| Configuration Methods | Web page, Configuration tool, AT commands |
| Modbus Gateway Modes | Simple protocol conversion, Multi-host mode, Storage gateway, Configurable gateway |
| Manufacturer | EBYTE |
| First Available Date | September 30, 2021 |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official EBYTE website or contact your local distributor. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims. Detailed support resources, including updated manuals and software, are typically available on the manufacturer's product page.