General
Number of serial ports	2
RS-485 Pull High/Low	150 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 4.7 kΩ, 3.3 kΩ, 1 kΩ, 909 Ω, 822 Ω, 770 Ω, 500 Ω, 485 Ω
Air humidity	5–95 % (nicht kondensierend)

The ICF-1150-S-SC-T from Moxa is an industrial media converter that converts serial data transmission over RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 into a fiber optic cable. The device is specifically designed for use in harsh industrial environments where high mechanical stress, extreme temperatures, and electromagnetic interference are common. It enables the connection of serial devices, such as sensors, controls, or machines, to a fiber optic network, thereby extending transmission range and enhancing immunity to interference. The converter features a multimode SC connector and is designed for operation in a temperature range of -40 to 85 °C, making it suitable for applications in outdoor or climatically extreme environments.

Applications

The ICF-1150-S-SC-T is used in industrial automation systems, such as in manufacturing, energy supply, transportation infrastructure, or process automation. It is particularly useful when serial devices need to be connected over long distances to a central control or monitoring system without data transmission being affected by electromagnetic interference. The certification for hazardous areas (ATEX Zone 2, UL/cUL Class I Div. 2) extends its application to environments with increased explosion risk, such as in the chemical or oil industry.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device features two serial ports that can be configured as RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 (in 2- or 4-wire technology) depending on the application. The baud rate can be set between 50 bps and 921.6 kbps, with support for non-standard transmission rates. The automatic data direction control (ADDC) for RS-485 simplifies integration into existing systems, as no manual data direction setting is required. For RS-485 applications, configurable termination resistors (120 Ω, 120 kΩ) and pull-up/pull-down resistors in various values (e.g. 150 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 4.7 kΩ) are available to optimize signal quality and communication stability.

Technology Explained Simply

The converter converts serial signals into light pulses transmitted over a multimode fiber optic cable. This enables a stable transmission connection over long distances without signals being affected by electromagnetic interference. The SC connector is a standard interface for multimode fiber cables and is commonly used in industrial applications. The device is not isolated (no I-model), meaning it does not offer galvanic isolation between the serial interface and the fiber cable. Power supply is via a terminal block with a voltage of 12 to 48 VDC, with integrated protection functions such as reverse polarity protection and overcurrent protection to protect the device from misuse.

Compatibility and Accessories

The ICF-1150-S-SC-T is compatible with a wide range of serial devices supporting RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485. Signal assignment is standardized (e.g. TxD, RxD, GND for RS-232) and allows direct connection to industrial controls, PLCs, or other communication devices. The device can be connected with multimode fiber optic cables featuring an SC connector. The use of appropriate fiber cables is required to ensure communication.

Mounting and Installation

The device is delivered in a robust metal housing with IP30 protection rating. It is designed for mounting on a DIN rail, enabling easy installation in enclosures or control cabinets. Dimensions are 30.3 × 70 × 115 mm, and weight is 330 g. Installation is done via a terminal block for power supply and serial connections, with wiring according to the signal assignment.

Operational Advantages

The ICF-1150-S-SC-T offers high operational reliability due to its robust construction and certification according to international standards for EMC, safety, and explosion protection. The operating temperature range of -40 to 85 °C enables use in extreme environments. The high MTBF (792,085 hours according to Telcordia standard) indicates high reliability. Integrated protection functions and easy DIN rail mounting reduce maintenance effort and enhance operational safety in industrial facilities. The 5-year warranty underscores the quality and longevity of the device.

Certifications and Environmental Conditions

The device meets the requirements of EMC directives EN 55032/35, CISPR 32, and FCC Part 15B Class A. It is also certified for electromagnetic immunity according to IEC 61000-4-2 to -4-8. Safety certification is according to UL 61010-2-201. Environmental tests according to IEC 60068-2-1/-2/-3 ensure functionality under temperature variations, humidity, and vibration. Explosion protection certification (ATEX Zone 2, UL/cUL Class I Div. 2 Groups A/B/C/D) allows use in hazardous areas. Relative humidity may be 5–95 % (non-condensing), and storage temperature corresponds to operating temperature.

Protection Rating and Mounting

The housing is made of metal and provides an IP30 protection rating, meaning protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and against splashing water from certain directions. Mounting is done via a DIN rail, enabling flexible and secure installation in industrial enclosures. Mechanical robustness and protective features ensure a long service life of the device under industrial conditions.