Advantech RS-485 Flexible Communication Connection, Flexible Communication Port ADAM-5000E only

Chapter 3

programmed in virtually any high-level language. The details of all commands will be covered in Chapter 6.

Flexible Communication Connection

ADAM-5000’s built-in RS-232/485 conversion capability enables users to freely choose either RS-232 port or RS-485 port to connect with host PC. When user select either port to connect with their host PC, the other port could be utilized according to their specific needs.

For example, if RS-232 port is selected for connection with host PC, the RS-485 port can be used for connection with DA&C modules (such as ADAM-5000/485, ADAM-5000, ADAM-4000 modules). Thus users save extra costs for another RS-232/485 conversion device (e.g. ADAM-4520).

Or if users select RS-485 port for host PC connection, the RS-232 port can then have different usage such as described in the following sections (see Built-in Communication Ports for Field Diagnostics and Flexible Communication Port)

Built-in Communication Ports for Diagnostics (ADAM-5000E only)

When users utilize application software to control their system, ADAM-5000E can provide another port to let user monitor at any time the communication quality and condition as a reference to mainte- nance and test. When error occurs in the system, users can perform a quick diagnostics to locate the fault. A considerable amount of troubleshooting efforts can be saved. For example, using popular ComWatch software, users can watch the current execution and response of a certain command. It is very convenient to identify whether it is communication or the hardware product that is causing the problem.

Flexible Communication Port (ADAM-5000E only)

ADAM-5000E provides a further application. Users can simultaneous- ly connect COM1 and COM2 of host PC to RS-232 and RS-485 port of ADAM-5000E. When host PC issues a command through one of the COM ports but receives no response (the other port will serve as backup), the COM Port Backup Function of HMI software (e.g. AFX, FIX) will automatically switch to another COM port to continue

ADAM-5000 3-5