Terminal Servers
Terminal servers transform any serial device into an Ethernet-capable device that can be used in a network. These servers allow terminal 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 terminal device can be connected to the network and the internet and accessed from anywhere. Terminal 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 addresses to facilitate communication between the users and the connected devices.
A terminal server can be a simple device that just connects the terminal 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 terminal devices are not a security issue. More sophisticated terminal device servers with multiple authentication and full encryption are used in environments where security and safety are critical. This can include remotely operating factory control mechanisms or environmental control systems.
Industrial device servers are designed to operate reliably 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.
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