Industrial Serial Device Server for Legacy Equipment Integration
The Moxa NPort 5110 serial device server is an industrial solution for converting RS-232 to Ethernet and integrating legacy serial devices into modern IP-based networks. In industrial automation, transportation, and energy systems, many devices such as PLCs, sensors, meters, weighing systems, and LED displays still rely on serial communication. Replacing this equipment is expensive and often impractical.
A serial device server solves this problem by converting serial data into TCP/IP packets and enabling connection to Ethernet networks, SCADA systems, and Industrial IoT platforms. Moxa, a leading manufacturer of industrial networking equipment, offers the NPort series, which has become an industry benchmark for serial-to-Ethernet conversion due to its reliability, protocol support, and mature software ecosystem.
What is Moxa NPort 5110?
The Moxa NPort 5110 is an industrial RS-232 to Ethernet serial device server designed to connect legacy serial equipment to Ethernet networks without modifying existing application software. It allows serial devices to be accessed remotely via TCP/IP and integrated into SCADA, MES, and IoT systems. The NPort family is widely deployed in industrial and infrastructure projects worldwide thanks to its long product lifecycle and stable firmware.
What is a Serial Device Server?
A serial device server is a network device that converts serial communication protocols (RS-232/422/485) into TCP/IP. This enables serial equipment to be connected to Ethernet networks and accessed by PCs, PLCs, and SCADA systems as if they were local devices.
Key Features of Moxa NPort 5110
- 1 × RS-232 serial port
- 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interface
- Supports TCP Server, TCP Client, and UDP communication modes
- Virtual COM drivers for Windows and Linux
- Web-based and utility-based configuration
- Operating temperature: 0…55 °C
- DIN-rail mounting
- Surge and EMI protection
Typical Applications of RS-232 to Ethernet Device Servers
- Industrial automation and process control
- Remote monitoring of sensors and meters
- Legacy device integration into Ethernet networks
- Energy and water utilities
- Transportation and infrastructure systems
How RS-232 to Ethernet Conversion Works
- 1. A serial RS-232 device is connected to the NPort 5110.
- 2. The device server converts serial data into TCP/IP packets.
- 3. Data is transmitted over Ethernet to a PC, PLC, or SCADA system.
- 4. Virtual COM drivers allow legacy software to use the device as a local COM port.
Configuration and Setup
The Moxa NPort 5110 serial device server is configured via a web interface or dedicated utility software. Main parameters include:
- IP address and network settings
- Communication mode (TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP)
- Serial communication parameters (baud rate, parity, data bits)
- Virtual COM driver installation for legacy software
Real-World Industrial and Transportation Projects
Railway and Metro Systems
In metro and railway projects in Taiwan, NPort 5150AI-M12 / 5250AI-M12 / 5450AI-M12 devices were used to connect serial LED passenger information displays to Ethernet networks. These railway-certified serial device servers comply with EN 50155 and ensure reliable operation under vibration and wide temperature conditions.
Intelligent Transportation Systems
In intelligent traffic control systems in the USA and China, Moxa NPort IA5150A / IA5250A / IA5450A series were deployed to connect traffic light controllers and roadside sensors to centralized control centers, enabling real-time monitoring and remote access via Ethernet.
Industrial Automation and Warehouses
In automated warehouses and AGV systems, Moxa NPort 5110 / 5130 / 5150 and wireless NPort W2150A were used to connect serial controllers and mobile equipment to Ethernet and WLAN networks without replacing existing devices.
Energy and Renewable Power
In solar and wind power plants, NPort 5210 and NPort S8455I / S8458 serial device servers were used to integrate serial inverters and meters into Ethernet-based SCADA systems for centralized monitoring and control.
Commonly Deployed Models:
- NPort 5110 / 5130 / 5150
- NPort W2150A
- NPort 5210
- NPort IA5150A / IA5250A / IA5450A
- NPort 5150AI-M12 / 5250AI-M12 / 5450AI-M12
- NPort S8455I / S8458
Comparison with Alternative RS-232 to Ethernet Converters
Moxa NPort 5110
- Advantages: High reliability and industrial-grade design; Mature firmware and Virtual COM drivers; Easy integration with PLC and SCADA systems; Proven track record in industrial and transport projects.
- Limitations: Operating temperature limited to 0…55 °C; Single RS-232 port.
PLANET ICS-110 / ICS-120
- Advantages: Lower cost; Multi-interface RS-232/422/485 support (ICS-110 / ICS-120).
- Limitations: Less mature software ecosystem; Fewer industrial certifications.
Compared to Moxa: PLANET devices are suitable for budget-driven projects, but Moxa offers better long-term stability and technical support.
Antaira STE-501C / STE-6104C-T-V2
- Advantages: Wide temperature range (–40…+85 °C); Four serial ports (STE-501C / STE-6104C-T-V2).
- Limitations: Higher price; More complex configuration.
Compared to Moxa: Antaira is preferred for harsh environments and multi-device setups, while Moxa 5110 is optimal for compact and cost-effective installations.
Kyland KPS3101A / KPS3204A
- Advantages: Multi-port solutions; Advanced network management.
- Limitations: Smaller driver ecosystem; Higher cost.
Compared to Moxa: Kyland suits complex serial networks, while Moxa focuses on simplicity and stability.
CTC Union STE211 / STE400A
- Advantages: Competitive pricing; Multi-port options (STE211 / STE400A).
- Limitations: Less mature firmware; Fewer industrial references.
Compared to Moxa: CTC Union products are suitable for cost-sensitive installations, while Moxa provides a more mature solution.
Network Integration and Security
Serial device servers integrate easily into Ethernet networks and are compatible with standard PLC and SCADA systems. They can be deployed in LAN and WAN environments and combined with VPN and firewall solutions for secure remote access.
The Moxa NPort 5110 serial device server is a proven solution for RS-232 to Ethernet conversion and legacy device integration in industrial and infrastructure networks. Its reliability, mature software tools, and wide deployment in transportation, energy, and automation projects make it a strong reference model for serial-to-Ethernet connectivity.
While alternative solutions from PLANET, Antaira, Kyland, and CTC Union provide cost-effective and scalable options, Moxa remains an industry benchmark in terms of long-term stability, ecosystem maturity, and industrial-grade design.
