NTR/1 is an industrial Ethernet RS232 converter that converts 10 Mbps Ethernet LAN signals to RS232 serial signals. This gateway can be used to enable an RS232 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 RS232 converter operates in full-duplex mode, and the baud rate can be set up to 250 kbps, making it easy to install in any new or existing system.

Use Cases

Ethernet converters are typically used to enable an RS232 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 1,500 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 RS232 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 certainly requires more in-depth networking knowledge, but it ensures long-term reliability.

Bridge Mode

With two NTR/1 gateways operating in bridge mode, it is possible to communicate between the gateways’ RS232 ports, even through a highly complex Ethernet network, in a completely transparent manner. In other words, it is as if the RS232 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: RS232 to Ethernet to RS485 in Bridge Mode, so that you can also change communication protocol.

Versatility

The Ethernet RS232 converter is also available with other combinations of serial standards, or with a fiber-optic output, featuring various connectors. The NTM/1 and NTF/1 gateways, for example, have RS485 and 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. However, all combinations of serial standards, fiber optics, and power supply options are available in the catalog, while special requests (such as higher speeds) can be made via the contact form.

Main features

Ethernet

RS232

Mechanical features

Working conditions