Convertor lets serial devices ride the Ethernet

NPort Express from Amplicon Liveline is a single-channel bidirectional serial-to-Ethernet convertor that can be integrated with any serial device such as a PID, PLC or DPM. Devices can be converted for use across a network simply by the installation of driver software on a host PC and by providing that PC with the IP address of the NPort Express, all configurable by the user. Configuration is possible through both the serial and LAN interfaces.

For serial configuration, Hyperterminal or a similar terminal emulator program would typically be used.

For LAN configuration, Telnet is most popular.

Featuring a three-in-one RS232, RS422 or RS485 serial interface and an auto detecting 10/100Mbit/s LAN interface, the NPort Express is housed in a robust hardened steel case measuring 100 x 87 x 22mm.

It also has configuration for RS485 with automatic turnaround, and automatic network connection recovery.

The NPort Express is provided with free software, which allows network protocols to be completely transparent to the user, as the device presents its serial port as a standard COM port in the host machine's operating system.

An additional advantage of installing the NPort Express is the ability to use existing CAT 5 cabling for new applications.

Extensive operating system (OS) support comes free of charge with the unit, including drivers for Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000 and Linux.

The same diverse software support is available on the multiport versions of the NPort Express, the NPort Server Family.

The models available in this family have 1, 2, 4, 8 or 16 serial ports per box for RS232 or RS485.

They also have a novel LCD and configuration buttons to allow direct setup by the user.

Uncased versions are available for OEM customers, and all products conform to FCC and CE marking.

The device also comes with a 5-year warranty as standard.