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StarTech.com ICUSB422IS Industrial USB to RS422/RS485 Serial Adapter - 1 Port - Metal Housing - Optical Isolation - 921.6 Kbps
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This adapter implements a single RS422/RS485 serial port through a USB 2.0 Type B host interface. The RS-485 mode includes Auto Transceiver Turn Around (ATTA) functionality for efficient half-duplex communication. The device supports both 4-wire RS422 and 2-wire RS485 configurations, providing flexibility for different serial communication requirements.
Optical isolation rated at 2500 Vrms protects connected equipment from electrical surges and ground loop issues. The adapter maintains compatibility with DB9 connectors and terminal block connections, accommodating various installation scenarios. Platform support extends to Windows, Linux, and macOS systems through included driver software.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, Platform Supported, Number of Serial Ports (External). When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This industrial USB serial adapter combines robust construction with advanced protection features for reliable operation in demanding environments. The metal housing provides physical durability while optical isolation ensures electrical safety for connected equipment.
These strengths make the product easier to deploy and manage in real environments, especially where reliability, usability, and day-to-day operational continuity matter. Notable benefits include Industrial Durability, Flexible Connectivity.
Industrial Durability
The metal construction withstands industrial environments while optical isolation protects against electrical interference and surges.
- 2500 Vrms optical isolation
- Metal housing for physical protection
- Surge protection circuitry
Flexible Connectivity
Support for both RS422 and RS485 standards with multiple connector options enables integration with diverse serial devices.
- DB9 and terminal block connectors
- 4-wire RS422 and 2-wire RS485 support
- Auto Transceiver Turn Around for RS485
Deployment / Use Cases
This adapter serves industrial automation, point-of-sale systems, building automation, and legacy equipment integration scenarios. It enables modern computers to communicate with industrial controllers, PLCs, CNC machines, and other serial-based equipment that requires RS422 or RS485 interfaces.
The isolated design makes it suitable for environments with electrical noise or potential ground loop issues. Applications include factory automation, process control systems, scientific instrumentation, and telecommunications equipment where reliable serial communication is essential. The USB power delivery eliminates the need for external power supplies, simplifying installation in mobile or temporary setups.
Industrial Automation
Connect laptops or desktops to PLCs, motor controllers, and industrial sensors using robust RS422/485 communication with electrical isolation.
Legacy System Integration
Modernize older serial-based equipment by adding USB connectivity while maintaining reliable serial communication protocols.
Physical Profile
The adapter measures 2.50 inches wide by 4.60 inches deep by 0.90 inches high (63.50 x 116.84 x 22.86 mm) with a weight of 6.40 ounces (181.44 g). The compact metal enclosure provides durability while maintaining a footprint suitable for desktop or mounted installations. The design includes mounting considerations for industrial panel or equipment rack integration when required.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 0.90" (22.86 mm), 2.50" (63.50 mm), 4.60" (116.84 mm), 6.40 oz (181.44 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 2.50" (63.50 mm)
- Depth
- 4.60" (116.84 mm)
- Height
- 0.90" (22.86 mm)
- Weight
- 6.40 oz (181.44 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate deployment of the serial adapter solution.
Highlights
- Adds one RS422/RS485 serial port to USB-equipped systems
- Industrial metal housing with optical isolation (2500 Vrms)
- Supports baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps for fast data transfer
- Compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 host interfaces
- Works with PC, Linux, and Mac operating systems
- Includes DB9 and terminal block connector support
- RS-485 mode features Auto Transceiver Turn Around (ATTA)
- TAA compliant for government and educational procurement
- 2-year limited warranty for long-term reliability
- USB powered - no external power supply required
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ICUSB422IS |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Model | ICUSB422IS |
| Product Name | 1 Port Metal Industrial USB to RS422/RS485 Serial Adapter w/ Isolation |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | Serial Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | USB 2.0 Type B |
| Platform Supported | PC,Linux,Mac |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Number of Serial Ports (External) | 1 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Height | 0.90" (22.86 mm) |
| Width | 2.50" (63.50 mm) |
| Depth | 4.60" (116.84 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 6.40 oz (181.44 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 1 Port Metal Industrial USB to RS422/RS485 Serial Adapter w/ Isolation 1 x 6ft USB A to B Cable 1 x Driver CD 1 x User Manual |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What operating systems does this USB serial adapter support?
The StarTech.com ICUSB422IS adapter supports Windows, Linux, and macOS operating systems. Drivers are included on the provided CD, with additional driver downloads available from the manufacturer's website for current operating system versions. The adapter maintains compatibility across different platform generations through standard USB serial interface protocols.
What is the maximum data transfer rate for this RS422/RS485 adapter?
This industrial serial adapter supports baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps, providing sufficient bandwidth for most industrial serial communication applications. The high-speed capability ensures efficient data transfer for monitoring, control, and data acquisition tasks while maintaining signal integrity through the isolated design.
How does the optical isolation protect my equipment?
The adapter features 2500 Vrms optical isolation that electrically separates the USB side from the serial side, protecting connected equipment from voltage spikes, ground loops, and electrical noise. This isolation is particularly valuable in industrial environments where different equipment may have varying ground potentials or where electrical interference could disrupt communication.
Can this adapter work with both RS422 and RS485 devices?
Yes, the ICUSB422IS supports both RS422 (4-wire) and RS485 (2-wire) communication standards. The adapter automatically handles the electrical characteristics of each standard, and the RS-485 mode includes Auto Transceiver Turn Around functionality for efficient half-duplex communication without manual configuration.
What types of connectors does this serial adapter support?
This adapter supports both DB9 connectors and terminal block connections, providing flexibility for different installation scenarios. The terminal block option is particularly useful for permanent installations where secure screw-terminal connections are preferred, while the DB9 interface works with standard serial cables for temporary or mobile setups.
Is external power required for this USB serial adapter?
No external power supply is required as the adapter draws power directly from the USB host port. This simplifies installation by eliminating the need for additional power cables or outlets. The USB 2.0 interface provides sufficient power for the adapter's operation while maintaining compatibility with USB 1.1 hosts at reduced power availability.
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