NTF/1 is an industrial Ethernet RS422 converter that also isolates the two branches up to 1500 V, so that an overvoltage on the field bus doesn't affect the Ethernet network, and vice versa. It can be powered by a wide range of AC or DC voltages and features removable terminals to facilitate installation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I configure it?
Ethernet and serial connections must be configured using our Windows software. It can be used with UDP and TCP protocols, with either DHCP or a static IP address. It operates in full duplex mode, and the transmission speed can be set up to 250 kbps.
What's bridge mode?
Two or more gateways can be used in bridge mode to enable transparent communication between RS422 branches via a complex Ethernet network. Serial devices will be able to communicate as if they were on the same bus.
Why is isolation important?
It electrically isolates the fieldbus from the Ethernet network. In a large system, the potential difference between different grounds can be significant, and without isolation, this difference discharges through the electronics.
Technical specifications
| Power supply | 9 - 24 V AC/DC |
|---|---|
| Power consumption | 1 W |
| Serial transmission data rate | 0 - 250 kbps (automatic) |
| Communication type | 10 Mbps BASE-TX |
|---|---|
| Connector | RJ45 8P8C for cat. 5 LAN cable |
| Isolation | 1500 V RMS for 1 minute |
| Termination | Bob Smith (75 Ω) |
| Communication type | Full Duplex on a balanced line |
|---|---|
| Maximum bus voltage | ± 60 V - ESD ± 16.5 kV (Human Body Model) |
| Common mode range | ± 25 V DC |
| Slew rate | Limited, to have an error-free transmission |
| DIN rail | 2 modules |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 90 mm x 36 mm x 33 mm |
| Weight | 68 g |
| Degree of protection | IP20 |
|---|---|
| Operating temperature | -20 °C to +50 °C |
| Storage temperature | -40 °C to +80 °C |
Full description
NTF/1 is an industrial Ethernet RS422 converter that converts a 10 Mbps Ethernet LAN to RS422 serial. This gateway can be used to enable an RS422 device to communicate with an Ethernet network, while simultaneously isolating the two circuits up to 1500 V. It can be mounted on a control panel with a 35 mm DIN rail, occupies only 2 modules, and accepts a wide range of low-voltage AC and DC power supplies. The terminals are removable for extremely easy installation and replacement. The Ethernet RS422 converter operates in full-duplex mode, and the speed can be set up to 250 kbps, allowing it to be easily installed in any new or existing system.
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When is a Ethernet RS422 converter needed?
Ethernet converters are typically used to enable communication between an RS422 serial device and an existing Ethernet network. They can also be used to extend the transmission distance without laying additional cables, or to isolate devices from power surges of up to 1500 V. Ethernet LANs are now ubiquitous in any environment, so it is common to use a serial converter (or gateway) to communicate with a device that lacks an Ethernet interface. In a network with heavy electromagnetic interference (common in industrial environments) it is good practice to install two or more optical-to-electrical converters to ensure signal integrity.
How can it be installed?
This Ethernet RS422 converter does not require any drivers or DIP switches, but it must be configured using our Windows software. It can be used with UDP and TCP protocols, with either DHCP or a static IP address. DHCP is very convenient because a server handles the configuration of all network parameters, but there is a risk that the converter’s IP address will change when the lease expires, unless a rule has been set up to reserve a specific IP address on the DHCP server. A static IP address certainly requires more in-depth networking knowledge, but it guarantees long-term reliability.
Bridge Mode
With two NTF/1 gateways operating in Bridge Mode, communication is possible between the gateways’ RS422 branches, even through a highly complex Ethernet network, in a completely transparent manner. In other words, it is as if the RS422 devices were connected directly to one another. Furthermore, Bridge Mode allows for direct communication with up to four other converters. It could be also used in a mixed way: RS422 to Ethernet to RS485 in Bridge Mode, so that you can also change communication protocol.
Versatility
The Ethernet RS422 converter is also available with other combinations of serial standards, or with fiber-optic outputs featuring various connectors. NTR/1 and NTM/1 gateways, for example, have RS232 or RS485 serial outputs, respectively. NTS/1 and NTQ/1 are suitable for synthetic optical fiber, with screw-type or VersaLink connectors, while NTV/1 uses bayonet connectors for glass optical fiber. All combinations of serial standards, optical fiber, and power supply are available in the catalog; special requests (such as higher speeds) can be made via the contact form.
