The ZLAN9440 is an industrial isolation RS485 hub designed to extend, isolate, and convert RS485 networks. It features one main port that supports both RS485 and RS232 interfaces, and four extended RS485 sub-ports. This device is particularly suited for industrial environments requiring high reliability and safety, offering robust protection against ground potential differences, static electricity, lightning, and power surges.

Function Description

The ZLAN9440 serves multiple key functions:

Isolation: It effectively isolates the master and slave ends of an RS485 network, as well as the four individual slave stations from each other. This photoelectric isolation prevents damage from ground potential differences, static, lightning, and surges, and mitigates ground loop currents.
Relay: The device can extend the communication distance of an RS485 network. When RS485 wiring exceeds 1200m, signals attenuate and interference increases; the ZLAN9440 acts as a repeater to boost the signal and extend reach.
Extension: It allows a single RS485 channel to be extended into four independent RS485 channels, thereby increasing the number of RS485 devices that can be connected to the network. This is particularly useful for star-type connections where direct star wiring is typically avoided in RS485.
Conversion: The ZLAN9440 can function as an active isolation converter from RS232 to RS485. This feature is beneficial for connecting RS232-based host devices to RS485 networks, providing isolation to protect the monitoring computer from high RS485 voltages.

The device is designed for situations where star connections are necessary despite the general recommendation against them for RS485. By using the ZLAN9440, interference between multiple RS485 devices in such configurations can be effectively isolated.

Important Technical Specifications

Interface Standard: Meets EIA/TIA RS232/RS485 standards.
Physical Interface:
- RS232: DB9 (female) connector.
- RS485: Terminal block.
Serial Port Type:
- RS485: Two-line (A, B).
- RS232: Three-line (TXD, RXD, GND).
Communication Rate: 0-200Kbs (self-adaptive).
Support Quantity: Each RS485 port supports up to 256 nodes.
Communication Distance: Up to 1200m at 9600bps; shorter distances for higher rates.
Isolation Voltage: RS485 isolation voltage: 2500V.
Static Protection: RS485: 12KV.
Operation Mode: Half-duplex transparent transmission.
Input Voltage: DC 9-30V (wide range input).
Work Temperature: -45°C to +85°C.
Environment Humidity: <95%RH.
Transmission Medium: Normal parallel lines or twisted-pair.
Dimensions (L×W×H): 12.2cm × 7.2cm × 3.4cm.

Usage Features

Master and Slave Port Isolation: Both the RS485 master port and all slave ports feature 2500V voltage isolation protection, ensuring robust electrical separation.
High Node Support: The RS485 master port and each slave port can support up to 256 slave stations, allowing for extensive network configurations.
Easy Installation: The device is equipped with a guide installation card slot on the back, making it suitable for standard guide rail mounting in industrial cabinets.
Wide Power Input: Supports a broad input voltage range of 9V to 24V DC, enhancing flexibility in power supply options.
Connection Indicator: Features CH1~CH4 indicators that illuminate when line A and line B of an RS485 connection are oppositely connected, aiding in troubleshooting wiring issues.
Flexible Port Selection: The main port offers both RS485 and RS232 interfaces, allowing users to choose one based on their host device's requirements.
Star-Type Connection Support: Enables star-type connections for RS485 slave stations, overcoming a common limitation of RS485 networks by providing effective isolation between branches.

Maintenance Features

Robust Design: Specifically designed for harsh industrial environments, ensuring durability and long-term operation.
Lightning and Surge Protection: The isolation features and static protection (12KV) reduce the risk of damage from electrical disturbances, minimizing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Grounding Option: An "EARTH" terminal is provided for shell grounding, which can be used for RS485 lightning protection and large current drainage. While not always necessary, it offers an additional layer of protection.
Troubleshooting Indicators: The RS485 opposite connection indicators (CH1-CH4) simplify the identification of wiring errors, reducing diagnostic time and effort.
Wide Operating Temperature Range: The ability to operate from -45°C to +85°C ensures reliable performance across a wide range of environmental conditions, reducing temperature-related failures.

The ZLAN9440 is a comprehensive solution for managing and enhancing RS485 communication in complex industrial setups, offering both performance and protection.

ZLAN ZLAN9440 - Hardware

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