RS-422/485 SERIAL INTERFACE PLUS, 4-PORT

Appendix C: Electrical Interface

RS-422

The RS-422 specification defines the electrical characteristics of balanced- voltage digital interface circuits. RS-422 is a differential interface that defines voltage levels and driver/receiver electrical specifications. On a differential interface, logic levels are defined by the difference in voltage between a pair of outputs or inputs. In contrast, a single-ended interface, for example RS- 232, defines the logic levels as the difference in voltage between a single signal and a common ground connection. Differential interfaces are typically more immune to noise or voltage spikes that may occur on the communication lines. Differential interfaces also have greater drive capabilities that allow for longer cable lengths. RS-422 is rated up to 10 Megabits per second and can have cabling 4000 feet (1219 m) long.

RS-422 also defines driver and receiver electrical characteristics that will allow 1 driver and up to 32 receivers on the line at once. RS-422 signal levels range from 0 to +5 volts. RS-422 does not define a physical connector.

RS-485

RS-485 is backward-compatible with RS-422; however, it is optimized for partyline or multi-drop applications. The output of the RS-422/485 driver is capable of being Active (enabled) or Tri-State (disabled). This capability allows multiple ports to be connected in a multi-drop bus and selectively polled. RS-485 allows cable lengths up to 4000 feet (1219 m) and data rates up to 10 Megabits per second. The signal levels for RS-485 are the same as those defined by RS-422. RS-485 has electrical characteristics that allow for 32 drivers and 32 receivers to be connected to one line. This interface is ideal for multi-drop or network environments. RS-485’s tri-state driver (not dual-state) will allow the electrical presence of the driver to be removed from the line. Only one driver may be active at a time and the other driver(s) must be tri- stated. RS-485 can be cabled in two ways, two-wire and four-wire mode. Two- wire mode does not allow for full-duplex communication, and requires that data be transferred in only one direction at a time. For half-duplex operation, the two transmit pins should be connected to the two receive pins (Tx+ to Rx+ and Tx- to Rx-). Four-wire mode allows full-duplex data transfers. RS-485 does not define a connector pin-out or a set of modem control signals. RS-485 does not define a physical connector.

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Black Box IC183C manual Appendix C Electrical Interface, RS-422, RS-485
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IC183C, RS-422, RS-485 specifications

The Black Box IC113C and IC175C are part of a series of versatile RS-485 interface converters designed to facilitate reliable data transmission over long distances. RS-485 is a standard defining the electrical characteristics of drivers and receivers for use in serial communications systems, and these specific Black Box converters exemplify the technology's adaptability and robustness.

The IC113C is an RS-485 to RS-232 converter, providing a seamless transition between these two common serial communication protocols. With a compact design, it boasts an operating temperature range of -40 to 85 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for harsh environmental conditions. Its key feature includes the ability to extend the communication distance up to 4,000 feet, which is ideal for industrial applications where devices may be far apart. Additionally, the IC113C includes built-in surge protection, ensuring that the device can withstand electrical noise and spikes, ultimately increasing the system's reliability.

On the other hand, the Black Box IC175C serves as an RS-485 to USB converter, bridging older serial devices with modern USB interfaces. This converter is critical for users wanting to connect legacy equipment to contemporary computing systems. Featuring a plug-and-play design, the IC175C is easy to install with no external power supply required, as it is powered directly through the USB connection. It also supports data rates up to 115.2 Kbps, ensuring fast and efficient data transfer.

Both models employ differential signaling, which enhances noise immunity and allows for greater transmission distances compared to single-ended communication standards. Furthermore, the converters support multiple nodes on the same bus, accommodating a network of devices without requiring complex wiring schemes.

In summary, the Black Box IC113C and IC175C offer essential features that cater to diverse industrial and commercial applications. With their robust construction, extensive operating ranges, and compatibility with various communication protocols, these converters enhance system interoperability and provide durable solutions for long-distance data communication needs. Whether connecting legacy systems or extending communication capabilities, these devices exemplify reliability and efficiency in modern data transmission technologies.
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