
Serial Device Servers

Serial device servers transform any serial device into an Ethernet-capable device that can be used in a network. These servers allow serial devices such as a printer, control mechanisms or control systems to be used in a network without relying on the serial port of a computer for connectivity. This way, any serial device can be connected to the network and the internet and accessed from anywhere. Serial device servers work by creating virtual serial ports which emulate physical serial ports and are used to connect the peripheral devices to the network. They assign TCP ports and IP address to facilitate communication between the users and the connected devices.
A serial device server can be a simple device that just connects the serial device to the network without any security or authentication, or it can be a more complex device that offers options similar to routers and Ethernet switches. Devices with no authentication or security features are often used in small offices when connecting printers. This is usually a situation where data and access to serial devices is not a security issue. More sophisticated serial device servers with multiple authentication and full encryption are used in environments where security and safety is critical. This can include remotely operating factory control mechanisms or environment control systems.
Industrial device servers are designed to reliably operate in harsh environmental conditions that may expose them to extreme temperatures, dirt, oil and gas. They can also be certified for hazardous locations and typically offer enhanced surge protection.
Serial device servers are used to connect serial devices, such as PLCs and sensors, to an IP-based Ethernet LAN (local area network). This not only makes it so industrial serial devices can communicate with other devices on the LAN, they can also be accessed over the internet. Serial device servers are available with one to 16 DB9 and/or terminal block connections, or RJ45 serial connections. These serial connections use RS-232, RS-422, and/or RS-485 serial standards. Ethernet connection types on serial device servers include RJ45 10/100BaseTX or 10/100/1000BaseTX, as well as Single- or Multi-mode SC 100BaseFX fiber options.
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FAQ
What do serial over IP device servers do?
A serial over IP device server enables serial devices to communicate over an IP based network. It changes serial transmissions into ethernet compatible signals that can be used remotely by network enabled applications and instruments.