OVERVIEW
SmartNode 485 is the first device to allow async RS-232 printers, terminals, scales, lathes, bar code readers— any “dumb” RS-232 device—to function in a multidrop RS-485 network.
An RS-485 network consists of a master device polling slaving devices for information. RS-485 devices already have the “smarts” needed to follow the rules for orderly communication. In contrast, RS-232 devices are “dumb”— unaided, they can’t follow the rules of a multipoint protocol. And that’s where SmartNode 485 comes in.
SmartNode 485 does two jobs. It converts your RS-232 signals to the RS-485 interface so your async ASCII devices can operate in an RS-485 polled environment.
It also acts as the address node for your RS-232 device, allowing it to communicate with a master device on a multidrop network.
SmartNode 485 lets you combine the variety of RS-232 devices with the advantages of RS-485. For example, the superb noise immunity of RS-485 enables your RS-232 devices to send data at rates up to 38.4 kbps, while residing on the network up to 5000 ft. (1524 m) away from one another.
SmartNode
485
And SmartNode 485 does not require you to modify your RS-232 device. Instead, you configure SmartNode 485 for your device’s requirements through internal DIP switches.
Each RS-485 network segment can consist of 32 devices. And up to 253 device addresses are available to SmartNode 485s on a network. Using repeaters, your SmartNode 485 network can be as complex as your application demands.
SmartNode 485 is available in either standalone or rackmount card versions. A 230-VAC model is also available.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Add RS-232 devices to your existing RS-485 network. Your unmodified RS-232 devices operate along side your RS-485 machines.
Create a multidrop network of RS-232 devices. Place RS- 232 printers, terminals, and bar code readers up to 5000 ft. (1524 m) apart. Control them with an RS-232 host controlling the network via an RS-232÷RS-485 Interface Converter.
