Westermo Data Communications has released a low cost, high specification Ethernet to serial adapter to connect existing serial equipment and devices to new Ethernet networks. The EDW-120 is a serial to Ethernet adapter that provides connection to Ethernet networks for legacy RS-232 devices. Two EDW-120 units can be used to create a simple point-to-point link or multiple units can be linked to form a simple one to many Ethernet network. The unit enables almost any serial device to interface through a new or existing Ethernet network.
The serial interface has two parallel RS-232 ports and the unit can support RS-232 protocol running at up to 115.2 kbit/s. The Ethernet interface is 10/100BSE-T and supports the following protocols: TCP, UDP, ICMP, IGMP, HTTP, and ARP. The EDW-120 has the unique ability to configure a point-to-point network using both UDP and TCP. Where TCP is used the unit can act as both client and server. It can also be used as an Ethernet terminal server and comes supplied with a free to use com port emulation package for Windows PCs.
As with all Westermo products the EDW-120 is designed for use in harsh industrial conditions. Ethernet connection is via a standard RJ-45 port with MDI/MDI-X. The unit is DIN-rail mountable and incorporates galvanic isolation and enhanced surge/transient protection on all ports. These features, along with the high EMC immunity, enable the device to be used in projects where a high degree of reliability is required.
As well as supporting UDP, TCP client and TCP server connections the EDW-120 also has an array of special modes such as Single Client Mode, Dual TCP connection, DSR connection, RST on TCP closure, RTS control, break signalling, last calling and packing algorithm allowing the unit to be used in a wide range of complex applications.
The EDW-120 can be easily configured via the onboard Web based configuration tool or by DIP switch. Network interface properties such as speed, duplex and auto-negotiation as well as serial port properties such as data-rate, flow control and data bits can all be configured. It is also possible to monitor and override the hardware settings using the Web tool. The Web tool is very intuitive and includes useful help information for the configurable parameters. A two level password offers added security protection. It is also possible to connect and configure the IP address locally via the serial port.
The unit offers redundant power and a wide range of DC inputs.