USB-A to RS485/RS422 Serial Converter – FTDI Chipset
Connect a computer's USB port to industrial RS485 or RS422 serial communication equipment with this compact USB-A to RS485/RS422 converter featuring an FTDI chipset.
Designed for industrial automation, equipment maintenance, instrumentation, and serial communication applications, this converter provides a convenient way to connect modern USB-equipped computers to compatible RS485 and RS422 devices.
The integrated USB-A cable connects to a computer, while the four-position screw terminal block provides field wiring connections. Clearly marked T+, T−, R+, and R− terminals simplify connection identification during installation.
The supplier specifies support for 2-wire RS485 half-duplex and 4-wire RS422 full-duplex communication, with automatic data direction control for compatible applications.
Key Features
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USB to RS485/RS422 Conversion: Connect compatible RS485 or RS422 serial devices to a computer through USB.
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FTDI Chipset: Uses an FTDI USB serial interface chipset, as specified by the supplier.
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Integrated USB-A Cable: Provides a convenient connection to USB-equipped computers without requiring a separate USB cable.
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Four-Position Screw Terminal Block: Allows individual field wiring connections to compatible serial equipment.
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Clearly Labeled Terminals: Screen-printed T+, T−, R+, and R− markings simplify connection identification.
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RS485 and RS422 Support: Supplier specifies 2-wire RS485 half-duplex and 4-wire RS422 full-duplex operating modes.
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Automatic Data Direction Control: Supplier specifies automatic transmit/receive direction handling for supported RS485 communication.
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Wide Baud Rate Support: Supplier specifies communication speeds from 300 bps to 1 Mbps.
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USB 1.1/2.0 Compatibility: Designed for USB serial communication using USB 1.1/2.0 interfaces.
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Compact Design: Suitable for service technicians, equipment cabinets, test benches, and industrial control applications.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | USB serial interface converter |
| USB Interface | USB Type-A male |
| Serial Interface | RS485 / RS422 |
| Serial Connection | Four-position screw terminal block |
| Terminal Markings | T+, T−, R+, R− |
| Chipset | FTDI, supplier specified |
| RS485 Mode | 2-wire half-duplex, supplier specified |
| RS422 Mode | 4-wire full-duplex, supplier specified |
| Baud Rate | 300 bps to 1 Mbps, supplier specified |
| USB Compatibility | USB 1.1 / USB 2.0 |
| Direction Control | Automatic, supplier specified |
| Computer Interface | USB virtual COM port, with appropriate driver |
| Operating Systems | Supplier lists Windows 7/8/10, Linux, and macOS |
| Power | USB connection |
Terminal Connection Identification
The converter features four clearly labeled screw terminals:
| Terminal | Marking | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | T+ | Transmit positive |
| 2 | T− | Transmit negative |
| 3 | R+ | Receive positive |
| 4 | R− | Receive negative |
The terminal markings help identify the transmit and receive connections.
Important: The correct wiring arrangement depends on the connected equipment and the selected RS485 or RS422 operating mode. For 2-wire RS485 applications, consult the manufacturer's instructions to determine the required terminal connections.
Typical Applications
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Industrial automation and PLC communication
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RS485 equipment configuration and troubleshooting
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RS422 serial device connections
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Industrial instrumentation and monitoring
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Machine control and manufacturing equipment
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Building automation systems
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Serial communication testing
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Equipment maintenance and field service
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Connecting legacy industrial serial devices to USB-equipped computers
Important Compatibility Information
This converter provides USB connectivity to compatible RS485 and RS422 serial communication equipment.
It is not an Ethernet adapter and does not provide a standard DB9 RS232 connector.
USB serial communication may require an appropriate FTDI driver. Operating system compatibility depends on the chipset, installed drivers, and computer configuration.
Before installation, verify the RS485/RS422 communication mode, terminal assignments, device wiring, and software communication settings.
The FTDI chipset designation, supported communication modes, baud rate, and operating system compatibility are based on supplier-provided specifications and have not been independently verified by Industrial Netware.
