B+B SmartWorx 2 Port Ethernet Serial Server

Meet the B+B SmartWorx 2 Port Ethernet Serial Server, a compact, rugged member of the Vlinx family that transparently bridges legacy serial devices to modern Ethernet networks. Designed for reliability in industrial environments, this two-port model uses DB9 male serial connectors and supports RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, enabling seamless communication across diverse equipment such as PLCs, barcode scanners, CNC machines, and instrumentation. With a single IP address, the device eliminates complex network mappings and simplifies remote access, monitoring, and control. Whether you’re upgrading an aging factory floor, integrating sensors into an automation system, or enabling remote data acquisition for SCADA applications, this two-port Ethernet serial server delivers dependable performance, flexible deployment options, and straightforward configuration that keeps your operations running smoothly.

• Two independent DB9 male serial ports that support RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, enabling versatile connections to a wide range of devices.
• Transparent serial over Ethernet with a single IP address, so serial data appears to connected devices and software as if they were directly attached locally.
• Flexible mounting options for desktop use or panel installation, plus robust construction suitable for demanding environments.
• Web-based configuration and management, providing simple port mapping, device addressing, and serial parameter settings from any networked computer.
• Ideal for industrial automation, remote monitoring, and system integration where legacy serial equipment must coexist with Ethernet networks.

Techncial Details of B+B SmartWorx 2 Port Ethernet Serial Server

• Ports: 2-port Ethernet Serial Server with DB9 male connectors, designed for direct connection to serial devices.
• Serial interfaces: Supports RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 standards for broad compatibility with industrial equipment.
• Networking: Ethernet connectivity with a single IP address to simplify access, monitoring, and remote management across a network.
• Physical form: Desktop and panel-mount options available to fit various installation scenarios and space constraints.
• Management: Web-based interface for quick setup, configuration changes, and ongoing maintenance without specialized software.

How to install B+B SmartWorx 2 Port Ethernet Serial Server

• Plan your network addressing. Decide whether to assign a static IP or use DHCP, keeping the device’s IP predictable for applications and management.
• Connect serial devices to the two DB9 male ports. Use appropriate cable wiring for RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 as required by your devices.
• Mount the unit on a desktop surface or panel according to your installation plan. Ensure adequate ventilation and protection from dust and moisture if used in harsh environments.
• Link the device to your local network with a standard Ethernet cable. Confirm physical network connectivity and LED indicators to verify link status.
• Power on the unit and access the web-based management page using the assigned IP address from a browser on your networked computer.
• Navigate the web UI to configure port settings. Choose RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 mode for each port, set baud rates, parity, data bits, and stop bits as required by your serial devices.
• Define port mappings and TCP/IP settings to enable seamless data flow between serial devices and your networked applications or software (e.g., SCADA, MES, or HMI systems).
• Test communication by sending commands or queries from your host application and verify responses from the serial devices, ensuring data integrity across the Ethernet bridge.
• Save the configuration and perform a final check of connectivity, device accessibility, and remote diagnostics to confirm a stable deployment.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the main purpose of the B+B SmartWorx 2 Port Ethernet Serial Server?
• A: It bridges two serial devices to an Ethernet network, enabling transparent communication over TCP/IP with a single IP address, which simplifies remote access and integration with modern IT systems.
• Q: Which serial standards does this device support?
• A: The unit supports RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, allowing compatibility with a wide range of equipment used in automation, instrumentation, and process control.
• Q: How many ports does this model have and what connector type is used?
• A: It features two ports, each using a DB9 male serial connector for easy compatibility with standard serial cables and devices.
• Q: How do I manage and configure the device?
• A: Configuration and management are performed through a web-based interface. You can set port modes, adjust serial parameters, assign IP addresses, and map serial data to network protocols without specialized software.
• Q: Can I deploy this device in desktop or panel-mount installations?
• A: Yes. The model is designed for flexible deployment, with options for desktop placement or panel mounting to fit your available space and application needs.
• Q: What are typical use cases for a two-port Ethernet serial server?
• A: Common applications include remote monitoring of field devices, integration of legacy PLCs with modern SCADA systems, data logging from serial sensors, and enabling centralized control for equipment that originally operated on RS-232/422/485 interfaces.