Advantech ADAM-4520 Isolated Converter RS-422/RS-485 to RS-232
Advantech ADAM-4520: Isolated RS-232 to RS-422/485 Converter – Product Description
The Advantech ADAM-4520 is a robust, industrial-grade serial communication converter designed to solve the most common connectivity challenges in harsh environments. It reliably converts RS-232 signals to balanced RS-422 or multi-point RS-485 signals, extending communication distance, enhancing noise immunity, and enabling network connectivity for legacy equipment.
This device is an essential tool for integrating RS-232-based devices like PCs, PLCs, and HMIs into modern industrial networks.
Key Features & Benefits
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Long-Distance Communication: Extends the limited 15-meter (50 ft) range of standard RS-232 to up to 1.2 kilometers (4000 ft) using RS-422/485, allowing for flexible system layout across large facilities.
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Industrial Noise Immunity: Features 2500 VDC isolation and built-in surge protection (ESD: 15KV for RS-422/485, 8KV for RS-232). This protects sensitive equipment from ground loops, voltage spikes, and electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring data integrity in electrically noisy plant environments.
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RS-485 Multi-Drop Networking: Enables the connection of up to 32 nodes on a single two-wire bus. This drastically reduces wiring costs and complexity compared to point-to-point RS-232 connections, creating a more efficient and scalable network.
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Seamless Integration: Appears as a standard COM port to the host computer, requiring no changes to existing software or drivers. It supports full-duplex (RS-422) and half-duplex (RS-485) communication with data rates up to 115.2 kbps.
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Rugged DIN-Rail or Wall Mounting Design:Â Housed in a compact, industrial casing suitable for direct installation in control cabinets on a standard DIN rail, saving panel space and enduring harsh conditions.
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Auto-Data Direction Control for RS-485:Â Eliminates the need for software-driven RTS control, simplifying configuration and ensuring reliable data transmission without driver modifications.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Local Side (PC Side) | RS-232 (DB9 Female Connector) |
| Remote Side (Field Side) | RS-422 (4-wire) / RS-485 (2-wire) (Screw Terminal Block) |
| Baud Rate | 300 bps to 115.2 kbps |
| Isolation | 2500 VDC (Between RS-232 and RS-422/485) |
| ESD Protection | 15 KV (RS-422/485), 8 KV (RS-232) |
| Max. Communication Distance | 1.2 km (4000 ft) |
| Max. Nodes (RS-485) | 32 |
| Power Supply | 10 ~ 30 VDC |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 70°C (14°F to 158°F) |
| Mounting | Standard DIN Rail or Wall Mount |
Typical Applications
The ADAM-4520 is ideal for a wide range of industrial automation and data acquisition scenarios:
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Factory Automation:Â Connecting PLCs, CNC machines, and sensors to a central SCADA system.
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Building Automation:Â Integrating HVAC units, access control systems, and energy meters over a single network.
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Environmental Monitoring:Â Linking remote sensors (e.g., for temperature, humidity, water quality) to a data logger or PC.
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Transportation Systems:Â Communicating with variable message signs and traffic signal controllers.
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Retrofit Projects:Â Upgrading existing RS-232 equipment to work on a modern, long-distance network without replacing the devices.
Why Choose the Advantech ADAM-4520?
The ADAM-4520 is more than just a protocol converter; it’s a reliability solution. Its heavy-duty isolation and protection features make it a trusted component in critical applications where communication failure is not an option. By extending range, solving noise issues, and enabling network connectivity, it breathes new life into existing RS-232 equipment, protecting your investments and future-proofing your operations.
