1. Introduction and Overview
This manual provides detailed instructions for the Waveshare 8-Channel RS485 to RJ45 Ethernet Serial Server, Model 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B). This industrial-grade module offers independent 8-channel RS485 communication, versatile protocol support, and functions as a multi-functional IoT gateway. It is designed for reliable data transmission in industrial and IoT environments, supporting transparent communication, Modbus, and MQTT protocols.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- 1 x Waveshare 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B) module
Image: The package contains one 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B) module.
3. Features
The Waveshare 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B) module includes the following key features:
- 8-Channel Independent RS485 Ports: Each of the 8 RS485 ports can be configured with different baud rates and operates without interference, allowing for flexible data acquisition.
- Versatile Communication Protocols: Supports multiple communication modes, including TCP server, TCP client, UDP, and UDP multicast, ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission.
- Multi-Functional IoT Gateway: Combines functions such as serial server, Modbus gateway, MQTT gateway, and RS485 to JSON conversion, providing an integrated solution for industrial IoT applications.
- Dual Ethernet Ports & PoE Option: Equipped with dual Ethernet ports for network switching. An optional Power over Ethernet (PoE) version is available, offering flexible network connectivity and reduced cabling complexity.
- Compact & Easy Installation: Designed for both wall-mount and rail-mount installations, facilitating quick deployment in various industrial and IoT environments.
Image: Overview of the industrial isolated 8-channel RS485 to RJ45 Ethernet serial server, highlighting its features.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1 Power Supply Connection
The device supports a 7-36V DC power input via the screw terminal. For the PoE version, power can also be supplied via the Ethernet port, compliant with IEEE 802.3af standard.
4.2 Ethernet Connection
Connect Ethernet cables to the ETH1 and ETH2 ports. These ports support 10/100M auto-negotiation and can be used for network switching or cascading with other devices.
4.3 RS485 Terminal Connections
Connect your RS485 devices to the 8 independent RS485 terminal blocks. Ensure correct A and B line connections for each channel.
4.4 Physical Installation
The module supports both rail-mount and wall-mount installations. For rail-mount, attach the device directly to a DIN rail. For wall-mount, remove the rail-mount buckle and use appropriate screws to secure the device to a wall or panel.
Image: Illustration of Ethernet port cascade functionality and multi-power supply options, including DC 7-36V and PoE.
Image: Examples of rail-mount and wall-mount installation methods for the device.
5. Operating Modes and Communication
The module supports various communication modes for flexible data handling:
- TCP Server: Supports up to 30 concurrent TCP connections. The TCP Server listens for connections, and data from the serial device is transferred to all connected TCP clients.
- TCP Client: Allows concurrently connecting to 7 target IP addresses. The device can also act as a server at the same time, supporting 22 concurrent client connections. TCP Client mode establishes a connection with a configured IP to achieve bi-directional transparent data transfer.
- UDP Multicast: In this mode, the module sends and receives data to and from the computer or Internet module that is part of the multicast group. It does not communicate with devices outside the multicast group, reducing network load.
- UDP Mode: The module communicates with specific IP addresses and port numbers, improving data transfer accuracy.
Note: This module is 8-channel, and each channel supports the above functions separately.
Image: Visual representation of TCP Server and TCP Client communication modes.
Image: Visual representation of UDP Multicast and UDP Mode communication.
6. Modbus Gateway and MQTT/JSON Support
6.1 MQTT/JSON to Modbus Conversion
When configured as an MQTT gateway, the device uploads serial data to an MQTT server using the MQTT protocol. Supported servers include Baidu Cloud MQTT, Alibaba Cloud MQTT, and China Mobile OneNet. Acquired Modbus RTU or non-standard serial data can be parsed into JSON format and packaged into an MQTT data packet for uploading.
When used as a JSON data acquisition gateway, the device connects to data acquisition instruments via RS485, automatically acquires data, converts it into JSON format, and posts it to a server. It supports Modbus RTU 645 instrument 97 version, 645 instrument 07 version, and various non-standard RS485 protocols. The uploaded data format can be configured via the host, and the JSON upload protocol can be MQTT, HTTP POST, or HTTP GET.
Image: Flowchart illustrating MQTT/JSON to Modbus conversion and data acquisition processes.
6.2 Multi-Host Roll-Polling Support
The device supports multi-host roll-polling, where different network devices are identified and responded to respectively, preventing crosstalk issues when communicating with multiple network devices.
6.3 User-Defined Heartbeat/Registration Packet
This feature allows for easy cloud communication and device identification through user-defined heartbeat and registration packets.
Image: Illustrations of multi-host roll-polling support and user-defined heartbeat/registration packet functionality.
7. Configuration
The device can be configured using various methods:
- Web Browser Configuration: Access the device's web interface via a web browser for easy configuration. It supports obtaining dynamic IP via DHCP and DNS protocol connected domain server address.
- NTP Protocol Support: The device supports Network Time Protocol (NTP) for obtaining network time information, useful for serial output or data upload timestamps.
Image: Visual representation of web browser configuration, host-based configuration, and NTP protocol support.
8. Protection Features
The module incorporates multiple protection mechanisms to ensure safe and stable operation:
- Digital Isolation: Provides stable isolation voltage with high reliability and strong anti-interference capabilities.
- ESD Protection: Electrostatic Discharge protection.
- Over-current Protection: Prevents damage from excessive current.
- Over-voltage Protection: Protects against voltage surges.
- TVS Protection: Built-in Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) tube effectively suppresses surge voltage and transient peak voltage in the circuit, offering lightningproof and ESD protection.
Additionally, a built-in resettable fuse and protection diode ensure stable output current and voltage, preventing over-current and over-voltage, and improving shock-proof performance.
Image: Icons indicating the multiple protection features integrated into the device.
9. Specifications
Image: Comprehensive table detailing the technical specifications of the 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B) module.
| Category | Parameter |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Serial server, Modbus Gateway, MQTT Gateway |
| Basic Function | Bi-directional transparent data transmission between RS485 and Ethernet |
| Communication Interface | RS485 port × 8, Ethernet port × 2 |
| Power Supply | DC 7V ~ 36V screw terminal (or PoE port for PoE version) |
| Isolation Protection | Power isolation, Signal isolation |
| Ethernet | RJ45 10 / 100M auto-negotiation, 2 KV surge protection (PoE with PoE support, IEEE 802.3af compliant) |
| Serial Port | Isolated RS485 (8 channels can receive and transmit independently) |
| Baudrate | 300 – 115200 bps |
| Parity Bit | None, odd, even, mark, space |
| Data Bit | 5 – 9 bits |
| Flow Control | N/A |
| 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 |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Humidity Range | 5% ~ 95% relative humidity |
| Dimensions | L × W × H: 103.5 × 93.0 × 29.7 mm |
10. Dimensions and Interface Description
10.1 Outline Dimensions
The physical dimensions of the module are 103.5 mm (Length) x 93.0 mm (Width) x 29.7 mm (Height).
Image: Detailed outline dimensions of the module in millimeters.
10.2 Indicator Description
The module features several LED indicators to provide status information:
- PWR: Power indicator. Lights up when the device is powered on.
- NET: Network indicator. Blinks when connected to Ethernet.
- LINKX: Lights up when establishing a channel X connection.
- ACTX: Lights up when channel X is transmitting data.
Image: Interface introduction showing Ethernet ports, RS485 terminals, and a table describing LED indicators.
11. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Waveshare 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B) module, consider the following:
- No Power: Ensure the power supply is correctly connected and within the 7-36V DC range. Check the PWR indicator LED.
- No Network Connection: Verify Ethernet cable connections. Check the NET indicator LED for blinking activity. Ensure network settings (IP address, gateway) are correctly configured.
- RS485 Communication Failure: Double-check RS485 A/B line connections. Ensure baud rate, parity bit, and data bit settings match the connected serial devices. Verify the ACTX indicator for data transmission.
- Configuration Access Issues: Confirm the device's IP address and ensure your computer is on the same network segment to access the web configuration interface.
For detailed troubleshooting guides and FAQs, please refer to the official Waveshare Wiki resources. A link to these resources can typically be found on the Waveshare product page or by searching their website.
12. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Waveshare 8-CH RS485 TO ETH (B) module, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Environment: Operate and store the device in a clean, dry environment within the specified operating temperature and humidity ranges (-40°C to 85°C, 5% to 95% RH).
- Connections: Periodically inspect all power, Ethernet, and RS485 connections for secure fit and any signs of wear or damage.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Internal Components: The device contains no user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open or repair the module yourself. Refer to professional service for any internal issues.
13. Warranty and Support
For information regarding the product warranty, technical support, and service, please refer to the official Waveshare website. You can typically find detailed warranty terms, contact information for customer service, and additional support resources there. Keep your purchase receipt or proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Official Wiki resources are available for further technical details and examples. Visit the Waveshare store and navigate to the wiki page to access these resources.
