Serial Communication Converters

Serial communication converters are adapters that convert a computer's USB port to an RS-232 or RS-485 serial interface, allowing a direct connection to field devices. They are used to download parameters to PLCs, drives, energy analyzers, meters and reactive power relays, to read device data and to monitor a Modbus RTU line from a computer. This group includes the GMT GCM-232-USB and GCM-485-USB, and the Tense USB-CON, which supports both RS-232 and RS-485; some models in the product data specify terminal block connections and signal LEDs. Choose the converter by the interface of the target device (RS-232 or RS-485), the required data rate, connection type and driver software support for your operating system. RS-485 is for multipoint, long-distance lines, while RS-232 is for short-distance connections between two devices. A USB-RS232 converter cannot be connected to an RS-485 line and does not replace a USB-RS485 model; the two interfaces are electrically different.

Products

How to choose Serial Communication Converters

Serial communication converters are adapters that convert a computer's USB port to an RS-232 or RS-485 serial interface, allowing a direct connection to field devices. They are used to download parameters to PLCs, drives, energy analyzers, meters and reactive power relays, to read device data and to monitor a Modbus RTU line from a computer.

  • Separate sensing, motion control, logic processing and operator interface requirements.
  • Select signal type, supply voltage, communication protocol and I/O count for the machine network.
  • Verify housing size, sensing distance and PNP/NPN output polarity against the PLC input card.

Frequently asked questions

What is Serial Communication Converters and where is it used?

Serial communication converters are adapters that convert a computer's USB port to an RS-232 or RS-485 serial interface, allowing a direct connection to field devices. They are used to download parameters to PLCs, drives, energy analyzers, meters and reactive power relays, to read device data and to monitor a Modbus RTU line from a computer.

What should I compare when choosing Serial Communication Converters?

Choose the converter by the interface of the target device (RS-232 or RS-485), the required data rate, connection type and driver software support for your operating system.

Where can I find technical details for Serial Communication Converters products?

A USB-RS232 converter cannot be connected to an RS-485 line and does not replace a USB-RS485 model; the two interfaces are electrically different.

Industrial Communication Selection Guide: Technical Criteria and Engineering Practice