Black Box RS-232 Data Sharer, 2-Port (in Metal Case)

The Black Box RS-232 Data Sharer, 2-Port (in Metal Case) is a rugged, purpose-built solution designed to maximize the efficiency of RS-232 networks. By enabling two serial devices to share a single modem and phone line, this compact unit reduces line costs while preserving the reliability and clarity of RS-232 communications. Its all-metal enclosure provides the strength and shielding needed for demanding environments, from warehouse floors to manufacturing benches, ensuring stable performance even in the presence of electrical noise and physical vibration. Whether you’re supporting legacy equipment, point-of-sale terminals, industrial controllers, or data-logging devices, this two-port data sharer simplifies your setup, shortens installation time, and delivers consistent, dependable serial data transmission. Built to handle continuous operation, it offers a practical path to streamlined communications without sacrificing compatibility or control. In short, it’s a durable, economical, and scalable way to manage serial data flow in busy networks.

• Two RS-232 ports for efficient data sharing: Connect two serial devices to a single modem and phone line, significantly reducing line expenses and cabling needs. This straightforward two-port design maintains separate data paths while allowing devices to communicate through a common interface, delivering cost savings without complexity.
• Rugged metal enclosure for industrial reliability: Housed in a sturdy metal case, the data sharer stands up to demanding environments. The metal construction provides EMI shielding, durable protection for connectors, and resistance to dust, humidity, and minor impacts, making it suitable for manufacturing floors, service desks, and field installations.
• Broad RS-232 compatibility with easy integration: Designed to work with standard RS-232 interfaces, this device requires no specialized software. Simply wire the two serial devices to the two ports and connect the modem line; data routing is handled transparently, so devices communicate as if they were directly connected to the modem, with minimal configuration and no driver requirements.
• Compact footprint for flexible deployment: The compact, two-port unit in a metal case fits neatly on a workbench, inside an equipment rack, or within a control panel. Its space-saving design helps you organize cables neatly and preserves valuable real estate in control rooms, laboratories, or point-of-sale setups.
• Reliable performance and long-term value: Built for endurance, the data sharer maintains stable signal integrity across multiple serial connections and over extended periods. The combination of durable construction and simple, proven RS-232 signaling makes it a dependable backbone for shared-line configurations, reducing downtime and the need for frequent hardware replacements.

Technical Details of Black Box RS-232 Data Sharer, 2-Port (in Metal Case)

• Ports: 2 RS-232 data sharing ports
• Enclosure: Durable metal case designed for rugged use and EMI shielding
• Function: Shares a single modem/phone line between two serial devices to optimize line usage
• Interface: Standard RS-232 serial interfaces for connected devices
• Compatibility: Suitable for a wide range of RS-232 devices including modems, terminals, printers, and data collection equipment

How to install Black Box RS-232 Data Sharer, 2-Port

Installing the Black Box RS-232 Data Sharer is a straightforward, hardware-based process designed to minimize downtime and maximize compatibility. Follow these general steps to ensure proper setup and reliable operation. Before you begin, power down all devices and disconnect power supplies to avoid electrical hazards and data corruption.

• Prepare your equipment: Ensure you have two RS-232 devices ready to connect, along with a modem or communications device and the appropriate serial cables. Verify that the devices you plan to connect support RS-232 signaling and that their serial settings (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits) are compatible with the modem and with each other.
• Connect the modem line to the data sharer: Attach the external modem or phone-line interface to the input port on the data sharer, following the labeling on the enclosure. This establishes the shared pathway for data traffic between the modem and the two serial devices.
• Attach serial devices to the two ports: Connect the first RS-232 device to Port 1 and the second RS-232 device to Port 2 on the data sharer using standard serial cables. Ensure cables are fully seated and that connectors are not forced, which could damage pins.
• Configure serial settings: Power up the modem and both serial devices, then align their serial communication parameters. Use matching baud rates, data bits, parity, and stop bits across all devices to prevent framing errors or data loss. If your devices permit configurable handshaking, select a compatible option (for example, hardware or software flow control) consistent across the devices and the modem.
• Test data flow: Initiate a simple data transfer test from each device to the other via the shared modem line. Confirm that transmissions are clear, complete, and timely. If you encounter garbled data or communication failures, recheck cable connections, verify that RS-232 voltage levels are within spec, and review any device-specific configuration requirements.
• Finalize installation: Once reliable communication is confirmed, bundle and secure cables to prevent strain on connectors. Label cables for easy maintenance and future expansion, and document the serial settings used for quick reference during troubleshooting or upgrades.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the primary benefit of the Black Box RS-232 Data Sharer, 2-Port? It enables two RS-232 devices to share a single modem and phone line, reducing wiring complexity and line costs while preserving reliable serial communication between devices and the modem.
• How many devices can it connect? The unit supports two serial devices connected to two RS-232 ports, sharing one modem line for communications.
• Is the data sharer compatible with all RS-232 equipment? It is designed for standard RS-232 interfaces. Compatibility with specific devices depends on matching serial settings (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits) and the modem’s capabilities.
• Where should I deploy this device? It is well-suited for industrial environments, warehouses, manufacturing floors, retail back offices, data-logging stations, and any setup where serial devices need efficient, shared access to a modem line with a durable enclosure.
• Do I need special software to use it? No software drivers are required. It is a hardware-based RS-232 sharing solution; configuration is performed via the connected devices and standard serial settings.