Industrial IoT RS485 To Wireless Converter

Industrial IoT RS485 To Wireless Converter

This long range RS485 to Wireless Converter can be used to connect existing RS485 devices to bring them to a modern IoT framework.  This RS485 to Wireless Converter can also be used to replace RS485 wired connections with a reliable long range wireless communication technology. Connect to the NCD wireless sensor ecosystem using the industry standard RS485 communications.  Our new IoT RS485 to Wireless Converter makes it easy communicate with NCD wireless sensors over RS485 by simply opening a COM port and watching for incoming data to arrive as sensor data is broadcast.  We have stripped away complexity and focused on what you need most, an easy way to get wireless data over a RS485 connection.  With a 2-Mile range (line of sight), this device operates at 900MHz for deep penetration through trees, foliage, and even some buildings.  With integrated Mesh networking, this device also acts as a repeater for sensor data.  Designed to work with any operating system that supports RS485 communications.  This RS485 to Wireless Converter offers a wide operating voltage range, requiring a external power supply of 5V to 32VDC.

AutoEncoder Version

The AutoEncoder version simplifies communications with wireless devices by automatically encoding and decoding XBee API packet structures.  This means software is easier to write, as you only move payload data into and out of the RS-485 protocol.  You do not need to deal with checksum encoding or decoding with this version.  Because this is processed using a processor and firmware, it’s a little slower than the Standard version.  Specialty commands are available to target multiple wireless devices, configure the network ID, and much more.  The AutoEncoder version is a great choice for PLCs where limited programming environments are available.  Put simply, if working with the Digi XBee API is intimidating, this version can save you a lot of time.  This version is NOT supported by our Node-Red Drivers.

What Frequency Do I Need?

Range and Frequency of NCD Wireless Sensors

During purchase, you will see three frequency options.  Not all options are legal for use in all areas, so it’s important to make the right selection during purchase.  We will build your product and accessories based on the options chosen.  Here, we will explain these options in much greater detail, but please check your local laws BEFORE purchase.

900MHz for North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico)

If you are located in North America, the 900MHz Option will provide the longest range currently supported with the best penetration through walls, buildings, industrial equipment, and trees.  This option is also the best choice for long range applications.

900MHz Wireless Sensor Range

The official Line of Sight rating for this option is 2 Miles with included antennas or 28 Miles with high-gain antennas.  These distances are characterized for direct line of sight applications with no obstructions.  Real-world range will vary greatly depending on surrounding buildings, trees, and other objects that may cause reflections or interfere with the transmission.  900MHz has excellent RF penetration characteristics, and we have successfully completed installations in excess of of a half mile on a automotive factory floor with active robots in between.  We have also seen excellent penetration in mild radioactive installations making this a possible candidate for use in nuclear energy applications.

We suggest contacting Digi.com for a high-gain antenna recommendation if required.  Please check your local laws before choosing this option.

868MHz for Europe Only

If you are located in Europe, the 868MHz Option is the longest range choice available at this time. This option offers better penetration through walls, buildings, trees, and industrial equipment than 2.4GHz. The official line of site rating for this option is 14.5km using 2.1dBi antennas. Please check your local laws before choosing this option.

2.4Ghz for Worldwide Use

The 2.4GHz option should be chosen if 900MHz and 868MHz are not legal for use in your country.  This option is now certified for use worldwide, including Europe, United States, Japan, Australia, Brazil, and South Korea. Please check your local laws before choosing this option just in case 2.4GHz is not legal in your area.

Not Sure?

If you are unsure of which sensor option to choose, please contact us.  We may be able to help determine which sensors are legal for use in your area.

Node-Red: IoT Without the Code

We’ve built Node-Red libraries so that you can build your entire IoT ecosystem with no coding necessary.  We are currently updating our libraries to include this device, full Node-Red Support coming soon.