| General |
| Connection 1 | RJ45F |
| Connection 2 | DB-9F |
| Type of device | DTE |
| Wiring | Crossover |
| Scope of delivery | 8-pack |
The article 04031260 from Perle is an 8-pack, each containing one IOLAN RJ45F to DB-9F (DTE) crossover adapter. These adapters are used to connect network devices with RJ45 connectors to serial devices with DB-9 connectors, particularly in environments where serial interfaces need to be accessed over a network. The adapters are specifically designed for use with IOLAN products, which enable control and monitoring of serial devices over Ethernet networks. The term crossover refers to the internal wiring that allows a direct connection between the pins of the two connectors, with signals switched according to DTE logic (Data Terminal Equipment). This is necessary to enable correct communication between two DTE devices, which otherwise could not communicate directly via a standard network cable.
Crossover adapters are commonly used in industrial and IT infrastructures where legacy devices with serial interfaces need to be connected to modern networks. The use of
RJ45 connectors enables a compact and standardized connection to switches, routers, or IOLAN modules, while the
DB-9 connector represents the classic serial interface (RS-232). Thus, these adapters serve as a bridge between old and new systems, especially in industrial automation, network device monitoring, or remote machine maintenance.
Functions and features in detail
These adapters are passive cables without integrated power supply or electronic components. They consist of an RJ45 connector (female) on one side and a DB-9 connector (female) on the other. The internal wiring is configured as a crossover, meaning the data lines (e.g., TX and RX) are connected according to DTE logic to enable direct communication between two DTE devices. The use of
DB-9F (female) on the serial side is typical for devices functioning as data terminal equipment (DTE), such as PCs, terminals, or certain network devices. The
RJ45F (female) connection allows attachment to IOLAN modules or other network devices equipped with an RJ45 port.
Technology explained simply
The crossover wiring is necessary because, with two DTE devices, the transmit line (TX) of one device must be connected to the receive line (RX) of the other to enable bidirectional communication. A standard network cable would connect identical pins (e.g., TX to TX), which would result in communication failure. These adapters perform this function passively, without additional power supply or signal amplification. The connection is purely mechanical and electrical, relying on correct pin assignment. The adapters are not designed for power transmission (e.g., PoE) but exclusively for data transmission over serial interfaces.
Compatibility and accessories
The adapters are specifically developed for use with IOLAN products from Perle, which integrate serial devices into Ethernet networks. They enable the connection of serial devices to IOLAN modules equipped with an RJ45 port. Their use is typical in environments where legacy devices need to be remotely controlled or monitored over a network. The adapters are not suitable for other applications such as PoE connections or data transmission over long distances without signal amplification.
Installation and mounting
Installation is performed by simply plugging the RJ45 connector into the corresponding port on the IOLAN module or network device, and the DB-9 connector into the serial port of the device to be connected. No additional tools or configurations are required. The connection is immediately functional once the physical link is established.
Operational advantages
Using these adapters enables simple and cost-efficient integration of serial devices into existing networks without requiring additional hardware or complex configurations. The passive design ensures a reliable and maintenance-free connection. The standardization of connectors (RJ45 and DB-9) simplifies handling and interchangeability. The adapters are available in an 8-pack, which is advantageous for larger installations or for replacing defective units. When used in combination with IOLAN modules, they enable remote maintenance and monitoring of serial devices over Ethernet networks.