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USB-COM485-PLUS2

USB-COM485-PLUS2

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International Ltd
RS-485, UART USB to Serial
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Overview

The USB-COM485-PLUS2 is a Hi-Speed USB to dual-port RS-485 adapter designed to bridge modern USB hosts with legacy industrial serial equipment. It utilizes the FTDI FT2232H bridge IC to provide two independent RS-485 channels via standard DB9 male connectors. The device is bus-powered and supports flexible baud rates while featuring integrated LEDs for status monitoring and data activity.

Why Choose This Part

This adapter simplifies multi-port serial connectivity by providing two RS-485 ports from a single USB 2.0 Hi-Speed connection without requiring an external power supply. It utilizes WHQL-certified FTDI drivers for high reliability across Windows, Linux, and Mac OS platforms. The inclusion of hardware LEDs for enumeration and Tx/Rx activity provides immediate visual feedback for troubleshooting bus communication issues.

Applications

Industrial Automation Control
Interfacing a PC or PLC with multiple RS-485 enabled motor drives, sensors, or actuators in a factory environment.
Multi-Drop RS-485 Networking
Managing a network of up to 32 devices per port in half-duplex or full-duplex configurations.
Building Management Systems
Connecting HVAC and lighting controllers to a central management server via long-distance serial links.
Field Service Programming
Portable diagnostics and firmware updates for remote industrial equipment using a laptop USB port.

Key Specifications

Type USB to Serial
Features LED Indicator
Interface RS-485, UART
Utilized IC / Part FT2232H
Convert To (Adapter End) D-Sub 09 Pos (DB9) Male (2)
Convert From (Adapter End) USB - B 2.0 Female

Getting Started

To use the device, install the FTDI VCP (Virtual COM Port) or D2XX drivers from the manufacturer's website. Once connected via a USB-B cable, the device enumerates as two standard COM ports in the host operating system. Engineers can configure echo and non-echo modes via internal jumper settings and use standard terminal software or custom applications to transmit data at logic levels compatible with RS-485 standards.

USB-COM485 Family

Comparing specs that differ across variants. The current part is highlighted.

Part Number Utilized IC / Part Convert To (Adapter End) Stock
USB-COM485-PLUS2 (this part) FT2232H D-Sub 09 Pos (DB9).. —
USB-COM485-PLUS1 FT232R D-Sub 09 Pos (DB9).. 58

Also Consider

USB-COM485-PLUS1 FTDI - A single-port version for applications that do not require two independent RS-485 channels.
USB-RS485-WE-1800-BT FTDI - An integrated cable solution with wire-ended outputs for direct termination into screw terminals rather than DB9 connectors.
CP2102N SiLSilicon Labs - A single-chip IC alternative for engineers looking to integrate USB-to-UART bridge functionality directly onto their own PCB design.

Categories

Connectors & Cables Displays & Optoelectronics