General
Number of serial ports	2
Ethernet connection	RJ45
Magnetic Ethernet isolation	1.5 kV
Overvoltage protection signal	1 kV
Input voltage	12–48 VDC
Air humidity	5–95 %, nicht kondensierend
Dimensions (without mounting)	77 × 111 × 26 mm
Data bits	5, 6, 7, 8
Stop bits	1, 1.5, 2

The NPort 5230A-T from Moxa is an industrial device server that integrates serial devices such as PLCs, sensors or measuring instruments into existing Ethernet networks. The device features two serial ports designed for RS-422 and RS-485, connected via a terminal block. The integrated MiiNe platform ensures particularly energy-efficient operation, reducing power consumption by up to 50 % compared to conventional solutions. The devices are designed for use in industrial environments, with the -T variant offering an extended operating temperature range of -40 to 75 °C, making them suitable for harsher environments.

Applications

The NPort 5230A-T is suitable for networking serial end devices in industrial facilities, such as in manufacturing automation, power supply or building automation. The ability to access RS-422/485 interfaces over Ethernet enables communication with older or specific devices that do not have Ethernet functionality. The robust construction and integrated surge protection for serial interfaces, Ethernet and power supply increase reliability in electrically demanding environments.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device offers a variety of operating modes, including TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP, Reverse Telnet, RFC2217 and Pair Connection, which can be selected according to the application scenario. COM port grouping allows simultaneous control of multiple physical ports via a single logical port, simplifying network architecture. Configuration is performed using a 3-step web tool, enabling commissioning in under one minute. Additional configuration options are available via Telnet, Serial Console, DSU, MCC Tool and a Windows utility.

Technology Explained Simply

The serial interfaces support baud rates from 50 to 921600 bps, data bits from 5 to 8, stop bits 1, 1.5 or 2, and parity types such as None, Even, Odd, Space and Mark. Flow control is achieved via RTS/CTS, DTR/DSR (RS-232 only) and XON/XOFF. For RS-485, an automatic direction switch (ADDC) is integrated, enabling communication without manual settings. The serial signals are isolated at 1 kV, the power supply at 2 kV, and the Ethernet interface is also surge-protected. The Ethernet interface operates at 10/100BaseT(X) and features magnetic isolation of 1.5 kV.

Compatibility and Accessories

The NPort 5230A-T is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows (95 to 11, Server 2000 to 2022, CE 5.0/6.0, XP Embedded), Linux (Kernel 2.4.x to 6.x), macOS (10.1x to 14), various UNIX systems (SCO, QNX, Solaris, FreeBSD, AIX, HP-UX), virtualization environments (VMware ESXi/Fusion, Parallels Desktop) as well as Android (API 3.1.x+). Network protocols include TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP, HTTPS, DHCP, BOOTP, DNS, ARP, SNMPv1/v2c, ICMP, LLDP and SMTP. Support for IGMP filters (v1/v2) enables efficient multicast management.

Mounting and Installation

The device can be mounted on a desktop, on a wall or on a DIN rail (optional). The housing is made of metal and is compact in size (77 × 111 × 26 mm without mounting). Power supply is via a 3-pole screw terminal block and a power jack, with an input voltage range of 12 to 48 VDC. At 12 VDC, the current consumption is 119 mA. Mounting requires no special tools, and the mounting options can be flexibly adapted to the respective environment.

Operational Advantages

The wide operating temperature range of -40 to 75 °C makes the NPort 5230A-T suitable for locations exposed to extreme climatic conditions. The integrated surge protection functions increase the device’s lifespan and reliability. The long MTBF of 847,750 hours (according to Telcordia Standard TR/SR) underscores high availability. Support for many operating systems and network protocols enables flexible integration into existing IT infrastructures. Configuration via web interface or other tools ensures quick and easy commissioning.

Certifications

The device complies with safety standards UL 60950-1 and EN/IEC 62368-1. EMI/EMS certifications include CISPR 32, FCC Part 15B, as well as IEC 61000-4-2 to -4-11. Environmental certifications according to RoHS, CRoHS and WEEE are also present, ensuring proper disposal and environmental compatibility.