RS-232 - RS-485 adapter Digitus DA-70161

The RS-232 to RS-485 Adapter Digitus DA-70161 converts RS-232 signals into RS-485 and enables communication between computers and serial devices that support the RS-485 interface. The compact adapter supports data transfer rates from 300 to 115,200 bps, extends the RS-232 route of up to 5 m to an RS-485 range of up to 1,200 m, complies with EIA and TIA standards, and requires no external power supply. A patented RS-232 chipset removes the need for RS-232 interface initialization and the integrated transceiver provides automatic, delay-free direction detection without using handshaking signals (RTS, DTR), ensuring compatibility with RS-232 half-duplex applications without software or hardware changes.

Advantages

The Digitus DA-70161 provides plug-and-play conversion between RS-232 and RS-485, supports wide baud rates (300–115,200 bps), and extends communication distance up to 1,200 m on the RS-485 side while maintaining up to 5 m on the RS-232 side. It operates without an external power supply and uses an integrated transceiver with automatic data direction detection, eliminating the need for additional handshaking signals or software modifications. The adapter is compliant with EIA/TIA standards and comes in a durable blue housing suitable for industrial environments.

Suitable for

• Connecting computers to RS-485 serial devices
• Industrial control and automation systems
• Card readers and access control systems
• Digital payment and fare collection systems (tolls, buses, car parks)
• Engineering and instrumentation applications

Key specifications

• Connectors: RS-232 to RS-485
• Transfer speed: 300 to 115,200 bps
• Range: up to 5 m (RS-232 side), up to 1,200 m (RS-485 side)
• Standards: EIA and TIA compliant
• Power: no external power supply required
• Product colour: Blue
• Manufacturer: DIGITUS, MPN DA-70161, EAN 4016032358480

How to use

Connect the RS-232 end of the Digitus DA-70161 to the RS-232 port of your computer or controller and wire the RS-485 side to the target device or bus according to the device’s RS-485 wiring scheme. No external power or special initialization is required; the adapter automatically detects the data direction and switches the transceiver accordingly. Confirm baud rate and communication parameters (parity, data bits, stop bits) in your host software to match the connected RS-485 device.

Recommendations

For reliable long-distance communication, use twisted-pair shielded cable for the RS-485 segment, keep cable runs within the specified maximum of 1,200 m, and ensure proper termination and biasing of the RS-485 bus as required by your installation. Verify matching serial settings on both ends to avoid communication errors.