PortBox 2: RS-232/485 to Ethernet converter
€225.40
PortBox 2: RS-232/485 to Ethernet Converter
The PortBox 2 from HW group is a powerful converter that seamlessly integrates serial RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces into Ethernet networks. With a fully-featured 9-pin RS-232 port and support for RS-485, this device provides a flexible solution for remote control and data transmission in industrial and commercial environments.
Whether for connecting barcode scanners, access control systems, or vending machines – the PortBox 2 enables easy integration of serial devices into modern networks and ensures reliable communication over LAN.
Functionality and Application Areas
The PortBox 2 enables the connection of a fully-featured RS-232/485 serial port to a LAN, allowing the serial port to be used in Windows as a Virtual Serial Port (VSP), e.g., as COM17. With the free HW VSP3 software, up to 100 remote serial ports can be connected to a PC, which is also suitable for Windows server applications (as an NT service).
A unique feature is the simultaneous use of the RS-232 port for data collection (e.g., CDR/SMDR for PBX telephone systems) and for remote access as a virtual port.
In Box-2-Box mode, two PortBox 2 devices can be connected over LAN to tunnel serial RS-232/485 data. This extends the range of serial connections without additional cabling, making it ideal for distributed systems.
The application possibilities of the PortBox 2 are diverse:
- Remote control of devices such as barcode scanners, RFID readers, or serial displays via RS-232/485.
- Integration into access control systems and security installations for online monitoring.
- Automation of vending machines or signaling devices such as displays and signal horns.
- Data collection for PBX telephone systems or other serial applications.
Technical Features and Integration
The PortBox 2 offers the following technical features:
- 1x fully-featured RS-232/485 port with 9-bit support (RxD, TxD, GND, CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, RI, CD) and up to 115,200 baud.
- M2M communication protocols: HTTP, Telnet, TCP Server, TCP Client/Server.
- Configuration via integrated web server or Telnet.
- Virtual parity for 9-bit protocols to meet special requirements.
The free HW VSP3 software enables easy integration of the serial port as a virtual COM port in Windows (including NT service and x64 systems). For developers, the HWg-SDK provides programming examples in languages such as C++, C#, PHP, Java, and more for quick integration into custom applications. Compatibility with third-party software is ensured by protocols such as Modbus/TCP and RFC2217.
In Box-2-Box mode, two devices can synchronize serial data over the network, significantly extending the range of RS-232/485 connections. Configuration is intuitive via the web interface, allowing quick adjustment of parameters such as baud rate, parity, or connection mode.
Robust Design and Easy Installation
With its compact dimensions of 100 x 94 x 25 mm and a robust metal housing, the PortBox 2 is designed for use in demanding environments. It operates reliably in a temperature range from -30°C to +85°C, making it suitable for industrial applications or outdoor use. Installation is flexible: the device can be mounted on a wall, in a 19-inch rack, or on a DIN rail. Power is supplied by an external power supply with 9–30 V DC, allowing easy integration into existing infrastructures.
Who Benefits from the PortBox 2?
The PortBox 2 is ideal for IT administrators, system integrators, and automation engineers who need to integrate serial devices into a network. It reduces the need for physical serial connections and enables remote control and monitoring of devices, which is especially advantageous in distributed systems such as security installations, vending machines, or telephone systems. Thanks to support for up to 100 virtual serial ports and easy integration into existing software solutions, the device saves time and costs.
Available Versions:
The PortBox 2 is available in two versions: PortBox 2 and PortBox 2 Set. The package contents are as follows:
PortBox 2:
- PortBox 2 device
- External power supply (9–30 V DC)
- User manual
- Mounting materials for wall or DIN rail installation
PortBox 2 Set:
- PortBox 2 device
- External power supply (9–30 V DC)
- User manual
- Mounting materials for wall or DIN rail installation
- Lap-link cable for serial connections
- CD with HW VSP3 software and manual
The PortBox 2 is a reliable and flexible solution for integrating RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces into Ethernet networks.
With its robust hardware, support for up to 100 virtual serial ports, and Box-2-Box mode, it is ideal for industrial automation, security applications, and data collection.
Easy configuration via the web interface, compatibility with third-party software, and versatile application possibilities make the PortBox 2 an indispensable tool for modern network environments.
- PortBox 2:
INCLUDES External power supply (9–30 V DC)
Mounting hardware for wall or DIN rail mounting - PortBox 2 set:
INCLUDES External power supply (9–30 V DC)
Mounting hardware for wall or DIN rail mounting
Lap-Link cable for serial connections
Ethernet Interface:
- 100 Mbit/s Ethernet connection
- RJ45 connector
Serial Interface:
- Full RS-232 port (9 lines)
- RS-485 support
- Cannon DB9M connector
- Signals: RxD, TxD, CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, RI, CD, GND
- Screw terminals for RS-485
Power Supply:
- Input power: 8-30V DC / 0.25 A
- Operating temperature: -10°C to +75°C
IP Protocols:
- ARP, UDP/IP, TCP/IP
- HTTP (web interface)
- Telnet + RFC2217
Dimensions:
- Dimensions: 105 x 105 x 25 mm
Additional Features:
- 9-bit protocol support (extended parity)
- Virtual serial port for Windows
- Supports up to 100 remote serial ports on one PC
- Box-2-Box mode (serial port over LAN between two devices)
- HW VSP as NT service for server applications
- Web-based configuration
- HWg-SDK available for programmers
- RFC2217 support for remote control
Other devices
Available sensors
Extension units
Accessories
Mounting Plate D Bracket for Ares and Poseidon2 Operating environment: -3°C - 85°C / 0%RH - 100%RH Storage environment: -30°C - 60°C / 5%RH - 95%RH Dimensions: 74 x 6 x 120 (W x H x D) / 58g Warranty: 24 months Wall mounting plate for Ares, Poseidon2 3266/68 and other products.
DB9 LapLink Cable 2m A LapLink cable (also known as Lablink or null-printer cable) is a cable used to connect two computers directly via a cable connection. Housing: Plastic Type: Cable
DIN-Rail Box Set A mounting kit for installing HW-group devices on a DIN rail. Applications and Use: Mounting kit for installing HW-group devices with metal housing on a DIN rail. Operating environment: -30°C - 85°C / 0%RH - 100%RH Storage environment: -30°C - 60°C / 5%RH - 95%RH Dimensions: 45 x 11 x 105 (W x H x D) / 22g
Mounting Kit Screw set for mechanical mounting Applications and Use: Screw set for mechanical fastening
Mounting Plate E- 1U Rack (cabinet) mounting plate, 1U mounting for HW-group Ares and Poseidon2 devices Operating environment: -30°C - 85°C / 0%RH - 100%RH Storage environment: -30°C - 60°C / 5%RH - 95%RH Dimensions: 127 x 45 x 94 (W x H x D) / 137g Warranty: 24 months Rack (cabinet) mounting plate, 1U mounting for HW-group Ares, Poseidon2 3266/3268 and other products.
Mounting Plate L DIN Rail DIN rail mounting plate for Ares, Poseidon2 3268, and other products. Features: Metal housing Wall mounting Applications and Use: Profiles for metal-encapsulated HWg devices for wall mounting. Dimensions: 150 x 120 x 45 (W x H x D) / 65g Warranty: 24 months
Mounting Kit for Poseidon2 4002 and HWg-SMS-GW3 Applications and Use: Mounting kit for Poseidon2 4002 and HWg-SMS-GW3 Operating environment: -30°C - 85°C / 0%RH - 100%RH Storage environment: -30°C - 60°C / 5%RH - 95%RH Dimensions: 136 x 45 x 16 (W x H x D) / 165g Warranty: 24 months
Rack Shelf 1U A versatile solution for easy mounting of HW-group devices in 1U racks. Operating environment: -30°C - 85°C / 0%RH - 100%RH Storage environment: -30°C - 60°C / 5%RH - 95%RH Dimensions: 485 x 44 x 104 (W x H x D) / 597g Warranty: 24 months Housing: Metal Type: Wall mounting This shelf makes it easy to use devices in racks. You can even combine different 1U products and sensors.
IP WatchDog
Software
Manufacturer information:
HW group s. r. o.
Rumunská 26
Prague, 120 00
Czech Republic
Phone: +420 222 511 918
Email: sales@hwg.cz
Responsible person:
Didactum® Security GmbH
Marsweg 17
48163 Münster
Deutschland
Fon: +49 - 2501 - 9 78 58 80
Email: info@didactum-security.de
