General
Serial standards	RS-232, RS-422, RS-485
Ethernet isolation	1,5 kV
Data bits	5, 6, 7, 8
Stop bits	1, 1.5, 2
RS-485 pull resistors	1 kΩ / 150 kΩ
RS-485 termination	120 Ω

The NPort 5150A from Moxa is a Device-Server for integrating serial end devices into IP-based networks. It enables communication between RS-232/422/485 devices and Ethernet networks, allowing legacy systems to be integrated into modern IT infrastructures. The device is designed for use in industrial environments where reliability, energy efficiency, and robustness are required. It is based on a powerful MiiNe-SoC and consumes only 1 W, making it an energy-efficient solution. The integrated overvoltage protection in accordance with IEC 61000-4-5 protects the device against transient voltage surges, which is particularly important in harsh operating environments.

Applications

The NPort 5150A is suitable for applications where serial devices such as sensors, controls, printers, or industrial machines need to be accessed via Ethernet. Typical use cases include industrial automation, building automation, remote control technology, or networking of measuring instruments. The support for up to 8 simultaneous TCP hosts enables flexible use in networks with multiple access points. Compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and virtualization platforms, expands the range of applications.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device features a serial connection with a DB9 connector, supporting RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 standards. The serial parameters are flexibly configurable: baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, data bits 5 to 8, stop bits 1, 1.5, or 2, parities (none, even, odd, Space, Mark), and flow controls RTS/CTS, DTR/DSR, and XON/XOFF. For RS-485, pull resistors (1 kΩ / 150 kΩ), a termination of 120 Ω, and automatic data direction control (ADDC) are available. The operating modes include Real COM/TTY, TCP Server/Client, UDP, Pair Connection, Ethernet Modem, Reverse Telnet, and RFC2217, covering a wide range of communication requirements.

Technology Explained Simply

The NPort 5150A operates as a serial device server, transmitting serial data over Ethernet. It acts as a bridge between the serial device and the network. Configuration is performed via a web interface (HTTP/HTTPS), Windows utility, DSU, MCC Tool, Telnet, or serial (model-dependent). Network functions include protocols such as DHCP, BOOTP, DNS, ARP, TCP/IP, UDP, Telnet, ICMP, HTTP, SMTP, and LLDP. Security functions include authentication via a local database, encryption with HTTPS, AES-128, RSA-1024, SHA-1, and SHA-256, as well as support for HTTPS (TLS 1.2) and SNMPv1/v2c. Power supply is via 12–48 VDC, with a current draw of 92.4 mA. Connections are made via screw terminals or hollow pins.

Compatibility and Accessories

The NPort 5150A is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 95 to 11, Server 2000 to 2022, Linux Kernel 2.4 to 6.x, macOS 10.1x to 14, various UNIX systems (Solaris, QNX, SCO, AIX, FreeBSD, HP-UX), Android API ≥ 3.1, and virtualization platforms such as VMware ESXi/Fusion and Parallels Desktop. Support for RFC2217 enables dynamic adjustment of serial parameters over the network. The devices are designed for industrial environments and comply with certifications such as EN 55032/35, FCC Part 15B Class A, CISPR 32, IEC 61000-4-2 to -4-8, -4-11, UL 60950-1, as well as RoHS, CRoHS, and WEEE. The MTBF is up to 2,231,530 hours.

Mounting and Installation

The device has a metal housing with dimensions of 52 x 80 x 22 mm (without mounting ears) or 75.2 x 80 x 22 mm (with ears) and weighs 340 g. It can be mounted on a desk, wall, or optionally on a DIN rail. Installation is performed via the web interface in three steps, enabling quick commissioning. Configuration is possible via various tools, facilitating adaptation to existing networks.

Advantages in Operation

The NPort 5150A offers a reliable and low-maintenance solution for networking serial devices. The low power consumption and integrated overvoltage protection enhance operational safety. Support for many operating systems and network protocols enables flexible integration into existing IT infrastructures. The high MTBF and certifications for EMC and safety make the device suitable for use in demanding industrial environments. Configuration via web interface and various tools simplifies maintenance and adaptation during operation.

Scope of Delivery

The device is delivered with a power supply (only for standard models), a Quick Installation Guide, and a warranty card.