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Black Box IC1620A-F RS-232 to RS-485 Interface Converter - 2-Port Internal - 1. 22 km (0. 76 Mile) Range
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This converter supports bidirectional conversion between RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces, handling data signals across two ports. The RS-485 interface enables multi-drop network configurations, allowing multiple devices to communicate over a single bus, which is ideal for distributed systems in manufacturing or building automation.
The internal form factor integrates directly into host equipment, reducing footprint and external power requirements. Signal integrity is maintained up to 1.22 kilometers (0.76 miles), supporting long-range serial communication without signal degradation. The converter operates on standard serial protocols, ensuring compatibility with existing RS-232 and RS-485 devices without requiring software changes.
Key Product Advantages
The IC1620A-F delivers practical benefits for serial network expansion and legacy system integration. Its internal design simplifies installation and reduces clutter, while the extended distance support addresses connectivity challenges in large facilities or outdoor environments.
Extended Range Connectivity
Supports serial communication up to 1.22 km, enabling reliable data transmission across expansive industrial sites, warehouses, or campus settings where traditional RS-232 limits are insufficient.
- Eliminates signal repeaters for most applications
- Maintains data integrity over long cable runs
Simplified Internal Deployment
Installs directly inside compatible enclosures or equipment, minimizing external components and power adapters. This integration approach protects the converter from environmental factors and reduces installation time.
- No external power supply required
- Reduces cable management overhead
Compliance Ready
TAA compliance ensures eligibility for U.S. federal, state, and local government contracts, making this converter a viable option for public sector and institutional procurement where regulatory adherence is mandatory.
- Meets Trade Agreements Act requirements
- Suitable for government and education deployments
Deployment / Use Cases
This converter is engineered for scenarios where RS-232 devices need to connect to RS-485 networks or where extended distance serial communication is required. Its internal form factor makes it particularly useful for embedded systems and OEM applications where space and installation simplicity are priorities.
Common deployments include industrial control systems, where PLCs or sensors with RS-232 outputs connect to RS-485 networks for factory automation. It also serves retail environments, integrating legacy point-of-sale terminals with modern network backbones, and building management systems, linking environmental controls across large facilities.
Highlights
- Converts RS-232 signals to RS-485 for extended distance communication
- Supports data transmission up to 1.22 km (0.76 miles)
- Internal form factor for clean, integrated installation
- Two-port design for flexible connectivity options
- TAA compliant for government and institutional procurement
- 1-year limited warranty for reliability assurance
- Enables multi-drop RS-485 network configurations
- Reduces external cabling and power requirements
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Black Box Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | IC1620A-F |
| Brand Name | Black Box |
| Product Name | RS-232 to RS-485 Interface Converter |
| Product Type | Transceiver/Media Converter |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Ports | 2 |
| Media & Performance | |
| Maximum Distance Supported | 1.22 km |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Internal |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 1 Year |
FAQ
What is the maximum distance this converter supports?
The Black Box IC1620A-F supports serial communication up to 1.22 kilometers (0.76 miles). This extended range makes it suitable for industrial sites, large buildings, or outdoor applications where traditional RS-232 distance limitations would require additional repeaters or signal boosters.
How many ports does this interface converter have?
This converter features two ports for RS-232 to RS-485 conversion. The dual-port design allows flexible connectivity between serial devices and RS-485 networks, supporting scenarios where multiple devices need to communicate over a single bus or where bidirectional conversion is required.
What does internal form factor mean for installation?
Internal form factor means the converter installs inside compatible equipment enclosures or host devices, rather than as a standalone external unit. This integration reduces external cabling, eliminates the need for a separate power adapter, and provides a cleaner, more protected installation for embedded or OEM applications.
Is this converter TAA compliant?
Yes, the IC1620A-F is TAA compliant, meeting the requirements of the Trade Agreements Act. This compliance makes it eligible for U.S. federal, state, and local government contracts, as well as institutional procurement where regulatory adherence to sourcing standards is required.