B&B PORT POW 9PIN 232/422 CON W/TB – Port-Powered RS-232 to RS-422/485 Converter

The B&B PORT POW 9PIN 232/422 CON W/TB delivers a simple, reliable bridge between RS-232 devices and RS-422/RS-485 networks. Designed for compact desks, rugged industrial spaces, and field installations, this port-powered converter transforms the TD and RD lines of an RS-232 link into robust RS-422/RS-485 signals with ease. Featuring Automatic Send Data Control (SDC), it automatically enables the RS-485 driver whenever data is present on the RS-232 side, eliminating manual turn-around control and ensuring smooth, collision-free communication across multi-drop networks. With a 9-pin RS-232 interface and a terminal block (TB) for RS-422/RS-485 wiring, this unit is ideal for a wide range of legacy devices, microcontrollers, CNCs, POS systems, and industrial instrumentation that require dependable serial connectivity.

• Port-powered simplicity: This converter draws operating power directly from the RS-232 port, removing the need for an external power supply and reducing cable clutter on crowded workbenches or control panels.
• Automatic Send Data Control (SDC): SDC automatically enables the RS-485 driver when data is transmitted from the RS-232 side, delivering reliable half- or full-duplex RS-485 operation without manual direction control.
• Versatile 9-pin RS-232 to TB RS-422/485 conversion: A DB9 RS-232 interface on the host side pairs with a terminal-block RS-422/RS-485 output, enabling flexible wiring to remote devices, sensors, and distributed I/O networks.
• Robust, compact design for harsh environments: Built to withstand the demands of industrial deployments, the unit features a sturdy enclosure and simple plug-and-play operation for fast deployments on factory floors, data centers, and field sites.
• Broad compatibility and easy integration: With no complicated setup required in most cases, this converter integrates smoothly with a wide range of legacy and modern serial devices, peripherals, and controllers, making it a dependable choice for upgrading serial networks without replacing equipment.

Technical Details of B&B PORT POW 9PIN 232/422 CON W/TB

• Interface: RS-232 on a DB9 connector; RS-422/RS-485 on a terminal block (TB) for the remote network.
• Power source: Port-powered from the RS-232 host port (no external supply required).
• Control technology: Automatic Send Data Control (SDC) for automatic driver enable on RS-485 during data transmission.
• Signal direction and data flow: Supports RS-232 to RS-422/RS-485 translation with automatic direction control to simplify multi-point networks.
• Physical design: Compact, durable enclosure designed for desktop and field installations, suitable for industrial environments where space and reliability matter.
• Wiring interface: 9-pin RS-232 side for host devices and a terminal-block output for RS-422/RS-485 devices, enabling straightforward wiring with standard cables and field-installed networks.

How to install B&B PORT POW 9PIN 232/422 CON W/TB

• Step 1: Identify the RS-232 host connection on your computer, PLC, or instrument and connect a standard RS-232 cable to the DB9 connector on the converter, ensuring proper pinout for Tx/Rx alignment.
• Step 2: Attach the RS-422/RS-485 network to the terminal-block (TB) on the converter. Connect the A and B lines (and any applicable non-inverting or signaling lines) according to your network’s wiring standard, maintaining consistent polarity with other devices on the bus.
• Step 3: Verify that the host device provides the necessary signaling power through the RS-232 port. Since this is port-powered, external power is not required; ensure the host port is active and capable of delivering sufficient current.
• Step 4: Power up the host device and confirm that the converter initializes automatically. The SDC feature will enable the RS-485 driver when data is transmitted, so you should see signals on the RS-485 side as data flows.
• Step 5: Test your serial link with a terminal program or your application. Set the appropriate baud rate, parity, data bits, and stop bits to match both the RS-232 side and the RS-485 network, then send test data to verify two-way communication.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the purpose of the B&B PORT POW 9PIN 232/422 CON W/TB? A: It converts RS-232 signals to RS-422/RS-485 signals and powers itself from the RS-232 port, enabling reliable, bidirectional serial communications without an external power supply.
• Q: Does this device require any drivers? A: In most standard configurations, no external drivers are required. The converter is designed for plug-and-play operation with many operating systems and host devices.
• Q: How does Automatic Send Data Control (SDC) improve RS-485 performance? A: SDC automatically enables the RS-485 driver during data transmission, simplifying network control and preventing bus contention in both half-duplex and multi-drop RS-485 setups.
• Q: Can I use this converter with industrial equipment? A: Yes. The unit is designed for industrial use, offering a compact, rugged solution for connecting legacy RS-232 devices to modern RS-422/RS-485 networks in factories, warehouses, or field installations.
• Q: What wiring considerations should I follow? A: Use the TB terminal block for RS-422/RS-485 wiring and connect the A/B lines consistently with other devices on the same bus. Ensure proper cable shielding and grounding as required by your system.