Moxa NPort 5230A-T 2-Port RS-422/485 Device Server

Technical Overview

The Moxa NPort 5230A-T serial to Ethernet device server is designed to make serial devices network-ready instantly, providing PC software direct access to these devices over a network. Featuring a sleek, rugged metal design, it is part of Moxa's ultra-lean industrial edge connectivity series, ensuring reliable performance in demanding environments. This device supports a wide range of baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps and offers a flexible input voltage range of 12-48 VDC. Its compact size allows for versatile installation options including desktop, DIN-rail, or wall mounting. The NPort 5230A-T also incorporates advanced surge protection for serial, Ethernet, and power lines, compliant with IEC 61000-4-5 standards, making it suitable for electrically noisy industrial settings.

Key Features

2 x RS-422/485 Serial ports with 5-pin terminal block connectors.
1 x 10/100Mbps Ethernet port (RJ45 connector) with 1.5 kV magnetic isolation.
Wide operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F).
Robust metal housing for harsh industrial environments.
Surge protection for serial, Ethernet, and power lines, compliant with IEC 61000-4-5.
Supports baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps.
COM Grouping function for controlling multiple physical serial ports simultaneously.
Fast 3-step web-based configuration for easy setup.
ESD protection: 8 kV contact, 15 kV air.
EFT protection: 2 kV power, 1 kV signal.
Supports versatile TCP and UDP operation modes.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Input Voltage	12 to 48 VDC
Input Current	119 mA @ 12 VDC
Operating Temperature	-40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F)
Storage Temperature	-40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F)
Ambient Relative Humidity	5 to 95% (non-condensing)
Housing Material	Metal
Ethernet Ports	1 x 10/100BaseT(X) (RJ45)
Serial Ports	2 x RS-422/485 (5-pin terminal block)
Baudrate	50 bps to 921.6 kbps
Magnetic Isolation Protection	1.5 kV (built-in)
Surge Protection (IEC 61000-4-5)	Power: 2 kV; Signal: 1 kV
ESD Protection (IEC 61000-4-2)	Contact: 8 kV; Air: 15 kV
EFT Protection (IEC 61000-4-4)	Power: 2 kV; Signal: 1 kV

Industrial Applications

1. Industrial Automation in Remote or Harsh Environments

Connecting legacy RS-422/485 devices like PLCs, HMIs, or sensors in factories or outdoor cabinets to a central Ethernet network for monitoring and control. The device's robust metal housing and wide operating temperature range ensure reliable operation in challenging industrial conditions.

Problem Solved

Provides reliable serial-to-Ethernet connectivity for critical industrial equipment in environments with extreme temperatures and potential electrical disturbances, eliminating the need for delicate industrial PCs.

RS-422/485Ethernet-40 to 75°CMetal HousingIndustrial AutomationSurge Protection

2. Data Acquisition from Distributed Serial Devices

Enabling data collection from multiple geographically dispersed RS-422/485 serial devices (e.g., smart meters, environmental sensors) over an IP-based Ethernet LAN. The device's COM grouping function simplifies managing data from various physical serial ports through a single COM port.

Problem Solved

Facilitates centralized data acquisition and control from numerous serial devices across a wide area, reducing complex wiring and enabling remote access for data analysis and system management.

RS-422/485Ethernet LANCOM GroupingData AcquisitionRemote MonitoringTCP/UDP

3. Utility Substation Communication

Integrating protective relays, RTUs, and other serial-based equipment in utility substations into a modern IP network for SCADA systems. The device's surge protection on serial, Ethernet, and power lines, along with dual DC power inputs, offers enhanced reliability and protection against electrical transients common in power utility environments.

Problem Solved

Ensures secure and reliable communication for critical infrastructure in electrically noisy environments, protecting sensitive equipment from power surges and maintaining continuous operation through redundant power inputs.

RS-422/485EthernetSurge Protection (IEC 61000-4-5)12-48 VDCDual Power InputsUtility SCADA