NTM/1 is an industrial Ethernet RS485 converter that converts a 10 Mbps Ethernet LAN to RS485 serial. This gateway can be used to enable an RS485 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 RS485 converter operates in half-duplex mode, and the baud rate can be set up to 250 kbps, allowing it to be easily installed in any new or existing system.

Use cases

Ethernet converters are typically used to enable an RS485 serial device to communicate with 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 virtually 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.

Usage

This Ethernet RS485 converter does not require any drivers or DIP switches, but it must be configured using our Windows software. It can be used with both 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 ensures long-term reliability.

Bridge Mode

With two NTM/1 gateways operating in bridge mode, communication between the gateways’ RS485 branches is possible, even through a highly complex Ethernet network, in a completely transparent manner. In other words, it is as if the RS485 devices were connected directly to one another. Furthermore, bridge mode allows for direct communication with up to four other converters.

Versatility

The Ethernet RS485 converter is also available with other combinations of serial standards, or with optical fiber outputs featuring various connectors. The NTR/1 and NTF/1 gateways, for example, have full-duplex RS232 or RS422 serial outputs, respectively. The NTS/1 and NTQ/1 are suitable for synthetic optical fiber, with screw-type or VersaLink connectors, while the 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.

Main features

Ethernet

RS485

Mechanical features

Working conditions