1. Introduction
The Waveshare Industrial Serial Server RS485 to RJ45 Ethernet TCP/IP to Serial Module, Model RS485 TO ETH (B), is an industrial-grade device designed for data acquisition and IoT gateway applications. It integrates multiple functions including serial server, Modbus gateway, MQTT gateway, and RS485 to JSON conversion.
This module features RS485 and Ethernet ports, utilizes screw terminals for power input, and supports a 9~24V wide range power supply. Its rail-mount, flame-retardant case design ensures compact size and ease of installation, making it suitable for various industrial environments such as data acquisition, IoT gateway, safety & security IoT, and intelligent instrument monitoring.
2. Product Overview
The RS485 TO ETH (B) module facilitates bi-directional transparent data transmission between RS485 and Ethernet. It supports various communication modes and protocols for flexible integration into existing systems.
2.1. Key Interfaces
- RS485 Port: For serial communication with RS485 devices.
- RJ45 Ethernet Port: For network connectivity (TCP/IP).
- Power Input: Screw terminals for 9~24V DC power supply.
- LED Indicators: PWR (Power), LINK (Ethernet Link), ACT (Activity).
3. Setup
3.1. Hardware Connection
- Power Supply: Connect a 9~24V DC power supply to the screw terminals (V+ and V-). Ensure correct polarity. A 12V industrial DIN-rail power supply is recommended.
- Ethernet Connection: Connect the RJ45 Ethernet port to your network switch or router using a standard Ethernet cable.
- RS485 Connection: Connect your RS485 device to the RS485 screw terminals (485A, 485B).
3.2. Rail-Mount Installation
The module is designed for easy installation on a DIN-rail. Simply clip the module onto a standard DIN-rail in your industrial cabinet.
3.3. Initial Configuration
The module can be configured via a host, web browser, or device management functions library. For initial setup, it is often easiest to use a web browser.
- Connect your computer to the same network as the module.
- Refer to the module's documentation for the default IP address and login credentials.
- Access the module's web interface through a browser to configure network settings (DHCP or static IP), serial port parameters (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits), and operating modes.
4. Operating Modes
The module supports various communication modes to suit different application requirements:
- TCP Server: Allows multiple TCP clients to connect to the module and receive data from the serial device.
- TCP Client: The module actively connects to a remote TCP server, enabling bi-directional data transfer.
- UDP Mode: Supports UDP server and UDP client for connectionless data transmission.
- Modbus Gateway: Converts Modbus RTU/ASCII data to Modbus TCP for seamless integration with Modbus TCP networks.
- MQTT Gateway: Enables serial data upload to MQTT servers for IoT applications.
- RS485 to JSON: Converts RS485 data into JSON format for web-based applications.
5. Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications of the Waveshare Industrial Serial Server RS485 TO ETH (B) module:
| Category | Parameter | Value |
|---|---|---|
| General | Product Type | Serial server, Modbus Gateway, MQTT Gateway |
| Basic Function | Bi-directional transparent data transmission between RS485 and Ethernet | |
| Item model number | RS485 TO ETH (B) | |
| Interfaces | Communication interface | RS485 port x 1, Ethernet port x 1 |
| Hard Drive Interface | Ethernet | |
| Power | Power supply | 9 ~ 24V DC screw terminal |
| Main Power Connector Type | Screw terminals | |
| Protection | Isolation Protection | N/C (Not applicable for this version) |
| Ethernet | Ethernet | 10 / 100M auto-negotiation RJ45 connector |
| Serial | Serial port | RS485 |
| Baudrate | 300 ~ 115200 bps | |
| Parity bit | none, odd, even, mark, space | |
| Data bit | 5 ~ 9 bits | |
| Software | Protocol | ETHERNET, IP, TCP, UDP, HTTP, ARP, ICMP, DHCP, DNS |
| Configuration | host, web browser, device management functions library | |
| Communication method | TCP/IP direct communication, VCOM | |
| Operating mode | TCP server, TCP client (coexisting with TCP server), UDP, UDP multicast | |
| Environment | Operating temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Storage temperature | -40°C ~ 100°C | |
| Humidity range | 5% ~ 95% relative humidity | |
| Physical | Dimensions (L×W×H) | 87 × 36 × 59 mm |
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the module. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the module operates within the specified temperature and humidity ranges to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Waveshare official website for firmware updates to enhance functionality and security.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Power (PWR LED off): Verify the power supply connection and ensure the voltage is within the 9~24V DC range.
- No Network Link (LINK LED off): Check the Ethernet cable connection to the router/switch. Ensure the network device is powered on and functioning correctly.
- No Data Transmission:
- Confirm serial port parameters (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits) match the connected RS485 device.
- Verify network settings (IP address, gateway, DNS) are correctly configured.
- Check the operating mode (TCP Server/Client, UDP) and ensure it aligns with your application.
- Ensure the RS485 wiring (A/B) is correct.
- Module Unresponsive: Try restarting the module by cycling its power. If the issue persists, perform a factory reset (refer to the full user manual for instructions on how to perform a factory reset).
8. Warranty and Support
Waveshare products typically come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, technical support, or further assistance, please refer to the official Waveshare website or contact their customer service directly.
Additional resources, including detailed user manuals, software tools, and FAQs, can be found on the Waveshare product page for the RS485 TO ETH (B) module.
