Cascading devices for distances higher than 100m by RS485
Introduction
Since cascading converters and peripherals are quite fundamental and play a key role with respect to the project and project documentation, and subsequently implementation, we have decided to expand the basic article with our knowledge/experience.
Prerequisites
- you have an optical fiber line between devices with a distance of more than 100m
- optical converter MOXA TCF-142-S recommended (can use different manufacture, but this one was tested)
Description
The most basic problem is the distance between peripherals. The manufacturer specifies stable and reliable communication between components up to 100m. When using a shielded cable with sufficient cross-section, stable communication without failures can be achieved even at 120-150m.
However, the reality is that few projects are able to meet these distances. Therefore, in cooperation with our partner, we have tested a solution in the form of RS485 - Metalic = Optical fiber converters.
As the most reliable and tested solution, we consider the following device: MOXA TCF-142-S
With this device, communication between Huawei Smart Logger 3000A and Janitza UMG 103-CBM over a distance of 4500m of optical fiber worked reliably for us.
NOTE
We recommend reading the user manual carefully before installation and putting the hardware switches during your actual connection. Or up to connecting 120 Ohms of resistance.
NOTE
Be careful and connect the right optical fiber between Tx - Rx and Rx - Tx.
Contact us
If you encounter any issues with your product, reach out to our support directly for assistance. You can find our contact information here.