Difference Between Ethernet And Serial Communication
1. The Configuration Of Ethernet Devices Is More Flexible And Convenient
Multiple RS232 serial communication devices and computer communications are generally in the computer PCI slot through the serial card or through the USB serial port connected to the USB to serial hub to achieve the expansion of the RS232 serial port, each computer’s PCI slot or USB interface is a certain number of limitations, which makes the computer communication with the number of RS232 serial devices by the corresponding limitations.
The RS485 bus serial communication, on the other hand, has a certain number of PCI slots or USB ports. While the RS485 bus, although simple wiring, load equipment, communication distance can reach 1200 metres, but its wiring must be used hand in hand daisy chain topology, in the RS485 bus to increase the number of devices need to be laid over the line or through the addition of 485 repeaters or 485 hubs to solve the wiring problem.
And Ethernet is different, as long as there is a network information port place, you can As long as there is a network information port, you can directly connect the relevant Ethernet devices to the Ethernet, and there is basically no limit to the number of access devices.
2. Hot-swap Support
It is possible to configure the related devices while the system is working, without stopping the system. For example, if the computer needs to increase the number of serial cards to expand the number of RS232 serial ports, it is necessary to stop the computer and open the chassis to increase the number of serial cards.
For the same reason, in the RS485 bus to add the corresponding 485 devices, you need to interrupt the line before you can add the corresponding device, and increase the corresponding Ethernet devices on the Ethernet, only need to be nearby the information port on the network cable can be connected, and then the information port Connecting the network cable can be, and then through the computer software configuration can work normally.
3. Simple To Use, Easy To Maintain In The Later Stage
Whether using RS232 devices or RS485 bus serial communications, setup usually involves communicating with a single computer, which makes it challenging to set up a dual-server redundant hot standby system. In contrast, Ethernet makes it easy to configure such systems.
Similarly, RS232 and RS485 serial communications do not form redundant links. If something goes wrong, the entire system can fail. This is especially true for RS485 bus systems, where problems such as short circuits can render the entire system inoperable. Determining the point of failure of the RS485 bus can be difficult and often requires a step-by-step investigation.
These problems can be avoided by using Industrial Ethernet for communication. By using industrial Ethernet switches, it is possible to create ring-shaped redundant links in an industrial network. If there is a problem with the link, the system can repair itself within 20 milliseconds, restoring functionality and issuing maintenance alerts in a timely manner.
4. High Scalability And Expandability, Very Adaptable To Flexible Cabling
Ethernet devices are hot-swappable and flexibly configurable for a variety of applications. Unlike RS485 buses, which are limited to 1200 meters, Ethernet connections are not limited by distance. While RS485 can be extended using repeaters or fiber optic modems, there is always a maximum distance limit.
Ethernet, on the other hand, can be connected to the Internet and data can be exchanged anywhere in the world where there is a network connection. In terms of speed, RS485 can reach a maximum rate of 110 Kbps, while Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps) is now widely used and Gigabit Ethernet is gradually being adopted for industrial control. This means that the communication capacity of Ethernet is essentially unlimited, allowing a large number of devices to communicate simultaneously.
With the continuous development of industrial control automation and office automation, the concept of “control integration” has emerged in the field of industrial control. This concept emphasizes the close integration of industrial control systems with office automation systems for seamless information exchange.
Today, office systems rely heavily on Ethernet for data exchange and all software runs on Ethernet. This means that Ethernet devices can communicate without any modifications, thus enabling direct interaction. As a result, data related to Ethernet devices in industrial control networks can be quickly integrated into office automation systems.
