
Terminal Device Servers

Terminal device 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 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 terminal device 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 is not a security issue. More sophisticated terminal 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.