Black Box 1-, 2-, and 4-Port Industrial Ethernet Serial Servers

Black Box 1-, 2-, and 4-Port Industrial Ethernet Serial Servers, LES402A manual Communication Modes

Chapter 2: Overview

•UDP mode allows broadcast to and from multiple IP addresses.

•Management access password protected.

•Configure the Ethernet and serial port settings using any of four methods:

1.Serial Server Manager Software for Windows enables configuration via a network connection or directly from the Ethernet port of a computer (using an Ethernet crossover cable).

2.Web Server enables configuration via the network using a Web browser.

3.Telnet enables configuration via the network by accessing the setup configuration menu.

4.Console Mode enables configuration through an RS-232 serial port in using a VT100 Terminal Emulation program and an RS-232 crossover cable.

•Virtual COM Driver Software for Windows for 2000/2003 Server/XP/Windows Vista/2008/Windows 7—installs virtual COM ports, viewable in the Windows Device Manager under Ports (COM & LPT). A Virtual COM port provides access to any of the ports on the Serial Server, like any other serial port (legacy, PCI, USB or PCMCIA) on the computer. Any program running on the computer and using Windows based COM ports can access the serial devices attached to the serial server. The LAN becomes transparent to the serial device and the software running on the PC.

•Heartbeat Connection—selectable protocol ensures reliable communications in Virtual COM Port or Paired Connection modes.

This feature restores the connections if communications are temporarily lost at either end because of loss of power or loss of the Ethernet connection.

2.3 Communication Modes

The Serial Servers enable communication with serial devices over a LAN or WAN. Serial devices no longer are limited to a physical connection to the PC COM port. They can be installed anywhere on the LAN using TCP/IP or UDP/IP communications. This enables traditional Windows PC software access to serial devices anywhere on the LAN/WAN network.

2.3.1 Direct IP Mode

Direct IP connections allow applications using TCP/IP or UDP/IP socket programs to communicate with the asynchronous serial ports on the serial server. In this type of application, the serial server is configured as a TCP or UDP server. The socket program running on the PC establishes a communication connection with the Serial Server. The data is sent directly to and from the serial port on the server. When using UDP protocol, the server can be configured to broadcast data to and receive data from multiple IP addresses.

2.3.2 Virtual COM Mode

Install Virtual COM Mode enables the user to add a driver to provide a virtual COM port on the computer. The new COM port shows up in the Device Manager. Windows programs using standard Windows API calls are able to interface to virtual COM ports. When a program on the PC opens the new COM port, it communicates with the remote serial device connected to one of the ports on the Serial Server.

After connection, the LAN is transparent to the program and serial device. Applications are able to work just as if the serial device is connected directly to a physical COM port on the computer. The virtual COM port software converts the application’s data into IP packets, sends it across the network to the Serial Server, which converts the IP packet back to serial data and sends the data out a serial port located on the Serial Server.

To use this mode, the Serial Server must be set to either TCP/server or UDP/server with a designated communication port number. The virtual COM driver is the TCP or UDP client.

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LES402A, LES401A, LES404A, 1-, 2-, and 4-Port Industrial Ethernet Serial Servers specifications

The Black Box LES402A, LES404A, and LES401A are robust industrial Ethernet serial servers designed to facilitate seamless communication between serial devices and Ethernet networks. These devices come in various configurations, including 1-port, 2-port, and 4-port options, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

One of the primary features of the Black Box LES series is their ability to convert asynchronous serial data into a TCP/IP format. This functionality allows legacy devices to be integrated into modern Ethernet networks, providing businesses with a cost-effective solution to modernizing their infrastructure without replacing existing equipment. The devices support various serial protocols, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, ensuring compatibility with numerous devices.

Each server in this series is equipped with advanced features such as selectable baud rates, which range from 300 to 921,600 bps, catering to the needs of diverse serial peripherals. Additionally, the LES402A, LES404A, and LES401A include an easy-to-use web-based management interface that simplifies configuration and monitoring. Users can quickly set up parameters, manage connections, and perform diagnostics, all from a centralized interface.

Robustness and reliability are crucial for industrial applications, and the Black Box LES series does not disappoint. Built to withstand harsh environments, these devices feature a rugged metal housing that protects against dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. Additionally, they come with Ethernet port support for Auto-MDIX, simplifying cable connections by automatically detecting and adjusting the port configuration.

Security is another significant consideration. The Black Box LES servers include features such as SSL and SSH support that secure data transmission between devices, making them suitable for sensitive applications. Furthermore, the devices support SNMP for network management, allowing for remote monitoring and management.

In summary, the Black Box LES402A, LES404A, and LES401A series of Industrial Ethernet Serial Servers are designed to bridge the gap between legacy serial devices and modern Ethernet networks. With their robust construction, varied port options, and advanced features, these devices enhance connectivity and streamline operations in demanding industrial environments. Their flexible configuration and security protocols make them a reliable choice for organizations looking to integrate their legacy systems into contemporary networks.