Introduction

Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION

VLINX Models ESP901 and ESP902 Ethernet Serial Servers provide Ethernet to Serial connections for RS-232,RS-422 or RS-485 devices. The ESP901 features a single serial port and the ESP902 features two serial ports. The serial ports can be accessed over a LAN/WAN using Direct IP Mode, Virtual COM Port, or Paired Mode connections. The 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connection auto-selects 10BaseT or 100BaseTX and indicates the type of connection with a bi-color link light.

Figure 1. VLINX ESP901 and ESP902 Ethernet Serial Servers

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902-3704

Chapter 1

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Introduction

Features

Multi-interface serial ports

oESP901 and ESP902 Port 1 software selectable for RS- 232, RS-422, RS-485 (DIP Switch selects Console Mode)

oESP902 Port 2 is RS-232 only

10/100 Mbps Ethernet with Auto Selection

LAN and WAN Communications

TCP or UDP Client or Server operation - configurable

Software Support - Windows 98/ME/2000/XP or NT 4.0

Firmware Upload for future revisions/upgrades

Configuration of Ethernet and serial port settings can be accomplished using any of four methods:

oVLINX ESP Manager Software for Windows allows configuration via a network connection or directly from the Ethernet port of a computer (using an Ethernet crossover cable).

oWeb Server allows configuration via the network using any web browser.

oTelnet allows configuration via the network by accessing the setup configuration menu.

oConsole Mode allows 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 - installs virtual COM ports, viewable in the Windows Device Manager under Ports (COM & LPT). Virtual COM port provides access to any of the ports on the ESP901 and ESP902, 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.

Heart Beat 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 due to loss of power or the Ethernet connection.

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Chapter 1

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902-3704

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax 815-433-5104

www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax 815-433-5104

www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph +353 91-792444 – Fax +353 91-792445

www.bb-europe.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph +353 91-792444 – Fax +353 91-792445

www.bb-europe.com

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B&B Electronics ESP901E, ESP902E manual Introduction, Features

ESP902E, ESP902, ESP901E specifications

B&B Electronics offers a series of industrial-grade Ethernet serial servers known as the ESP901E, ESP902, and ESP902E. These devices are specifically designed to connect serial devices to an Ethernet network seamlessly, enabling effective communication and data transfer across various applications.

The ESP901E is engineered for single serial port applications, providing an easy and effective way to connect a serial device to a network. It supports various serial communication protocols, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, making it versatile for a range of devices. One of its standout features is the ability to support 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connectivity, ensuring a reliable and high-speed network connection. Additionally, the ESP901E supports various network protocols, including TCP/IP and UDP, allowing users to integrate the device easily into their existing network infrastructure.

Moving to the ESP902, this model provides dual serial port capabilities, making it ideal for applications requiring the connection of multiple devices. Like the ESP901E, it supports common serial interfaces and offers the same 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connectivity. This flexibility enables it to cater to more complex systems where multiple serial devices need to be integrated into a single network environment. Furthermore, the ESP902 is equipped with features such as automatic baud rate detection, making configuration straightforward and reducing installation time.

The ESP902E enhances the capabilities of the ESP902 with additional features such as enhanced security protocols. It includes support for SSL and SSH, ensuring secure data transmission across the network. This added security layer is crucial for applications that handle sensitive information or require secure communication channels. The ESP902E maintains the user-friendly nature of its predecessors while integrating more advanced features suitable for modern industrial applications.

All three models boast rugged designs suitable for harsh environments, making them perfect for industrial applications without compromising performance. With an extensive operating temperature range and robust housing, these devices can withstand the rigors of factory floors and outdoor installations.

Overall, the ESP901E, ESP902, and ESP902E from B&B Electronics collectively serve to bridge the gap between serial communications and Ethernet networks, supporting various industrial applications while ensuring seamless integration, versatility, and security. Whether for simple single-port connections or more complex multi-port setups, these devices are designed to meet diverse connectivity needs with efficiency and reliability.