Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 Isolated Serial Server with Enhanced Protection

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 is an industrial-grade USB-to-serial converter designed for robust connectivity and enhanced protection in demanding environments. This device bridges the gap between modern USB interfaces and legacy serial devices, ensuring seamless integration and reliable data communication. Its key advantages include high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity, advanced UART support for superior serial performance, and robust 2 kV isolation for protection against electrical disturbances. The UPort 1450I-G2 features four RS-232/422/485 serial ports, a 512-byte FIFO buffer, and supports baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, including non-standard rates. It offers flexible power options, accepting either USB bus power or an external 12 to 48 VDC adapter, and operates within a temperature range of 0 to 60°C.

Product Specifications

| Feature              | Specification                                                                   |

| :------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |

| USB Interface        | USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 1.1/2.0 compliant                                            |

| USB Speed            | 5 Gbps, 480 Mbps, 12 Mbps                                                       |

| USB Connector        | USB Type B                                                                      |

| Serial Ports         | 4                                                                               |

| Serial Connector     | DB9 male                                                                        |

| Serial Standards     | RS-232/422/485                                                                  |

| FIFO Buffer          | 512 bytes                                                                       |

| Baudrate             | 50 bps to 921.6 kbps (supports non-standard baudrates)                          |

| Data Bits            | 5, 6, 7, 8                                                                      |

| Stop Bits            | 1, 1.5, 2                                                                       |

| Parity               | None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark                                                    |

| Flow Control         | RTS/CTS, XON/XOFF                                                               |

| RS-485 ADDC          | Automatic Data Direction Control                                                |

| Isolation Protection | 2 kV                                                                            |

| Input Voltage        | 5 VDC (USB bus power) or 12 to 48 VDC (external power adapter)                  |

| Operating Temperature| 0 to 60°C (32 to 140°F)                                                         |

| Housing              | Metal                                                                           |

| Dimensions           | 185 x 30 x 90.6 mm (7.28 x 1.18 x 3.57 in)                                        |

| Weight               | 379 g (0.84 lb)                                                                 |

| Surge Protection     | 0.5 kV                                                                          |

| Driver Support       | Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Server, Linux Kernel 6.x/5.x/4.x, macOS, Android |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 distinguishes itself in the industrial connectivity market through its combination of high-speed USB 3.2 SuperSpeed capability and robust 2 kV isolation protection. This dual focus on performance and reliability positions it as a premium solution for applications where data integrity and device safety are paramount. Unlike standard USB-to-serial converters, the "I" in 1450I signifies its enhanced surge and isolation capabilities, safeguarding connected equipment from damaging voltage spikes and ground loops. Its compatibility with a wide array of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android, further broadens its appeal to diverse industrial and IT environments. The inclusion of double-sided LEDs for status indication and a latching USB cable design underscore Moxa's commitment to user-friendly, dependable operation in industrial settings.

Key Application Scenarios

The UPort 1450I-G2 is engineered for a variety of demanding industrial applications where reliable serial communication is essential. Its robust isolation makes it ideal for connecting sensitive instrumentation, industrial control systems, and point-of-sale (POS) devices in environments prone to electrical noise or ground potential differences. This includes factory automation, where the converter can interface with PLCs, sensors, and actuators; transportation systems, for managing traffic control equipment or vehicle diagnostic tools; and building automation, connecting HVAC systems or security devices. The ability to support RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 standards on a single device enhances its versatility, allowing it to connect a broad range of legacy and modern serial equipment.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 into an existing system is straightforward, leveraging its USB 3.2 interface for host connectivity. Drivers for various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, are readily available, simplifying the initial setup. For secure physical installation, the unit supports DIN-rail mounting using optional kits, with a straightforward snap-on mechanism. The device accepts power via the USB bus or an external 12-48 VDC power adapter, offering flexibility in deployment scenarios. For RS-485 communication, configurable pull-high/low resistors (1 kΩ, 150 kΩ) and a 120 Ω terminator resistor are available to ensure signal integrity in challenging network conditions. The inclusion of a latching USB cable further ensures a secure, stable connection, preventing accidental disconnections during operation.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Safe operation of the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 is facilitated by its inherent design features and compliance with industry safety standards. The 2 kV isolation protection is critical for mitigating risks associated with ground loops, voltage transients, and electrical noise, thereby protecting both the converter and connected serial devices from potential damage. The device also boasts 0.5 kV surge protection, adding another layer of defense against electrical disturbances. Its robust metal housing and compliance with shock, vibration, and freefall standards (IEC 60068-2-27, IEC 60068-2-6, IEC 60068-2-31) ensure operational integrity in harsh industrial environments. For troubleshooting, clear LED indicators for power, transmit (TX), and receive (RX) statuses provide immediate visual feedback on port activity, aiding in rapid problem diagnosis.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 offers significant long-term value through its compatibility and potential for integration within evolving industrial systems. Its support for multiple serial standards (RS-232/422/485) ensures backward compatibility with a vast range of existing equipment, reducing the need for immediate hardware replacement. The adoption of USB 3.2 Gen 1, offering speeds up to 5 Gbps, provides ample bandwidth for future-proofing data transmission needs and integrating with higher-performance host systems. While not explicitly detailing IIoT integration features, its robust industrial design and reliable connectivity serve as a foundational element for data acquisition and communication within an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) framework. The broad operating system driver support also ensures ongoing compatibility as IT infrastructure evolves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the primary benefits of using the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2?

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 offers enhanced industrial connectivity with its robust 2 kV isolation protection, safeguarding equipment from electrical surges and noise. It provides high-speed data transfer capabilities through USB 3.2 SuperSpeed, ensuring efficient communication with modern computers. This device expertly bridges the gap between new USB ports and essential legacy serial devices.

This serial server supports versatile communication standards, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, accommodating a wide range of industrial equipment. Its industrial-grade metal housing and comprehensive driver support for various operating systems enhance its reliability and ease of integration into diverse environments.

The 512-byte FIFO buffer and advanced UARTs contribute to high serial performance, while features like latching USB cables and status LEDs improve operational usability and connection security in demanding settings.

Q2: How does the 2 kV isolation protection benefit an industrial setup?

The 2 kV isolation protection on the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 is crucial for preventing ground loops, which can cause erratic data and system instability. It effectively isolates the serial ports from the USB host, shielding connected devices from damaging voltage spikes or transients. This significantly enhances the reliability and longevity of connected equipment.

This feature is particularly vital in environments with high electrical interference or varying ground potentials, common in factory floors or substations. By creating an electrical barrier, it prevents common-mode noise from corrupting data signals, ensuring cleaner and more accurate data transmission.

Implementing devices with galvanic isolation, like the UPort 1450I-G2, is a proactive measure to mitigate risks associated with electrical faults or power fluctuations, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance costs in critical industrial applications.

Q3: What serial standards does the UPort 1450I-G2 support, and why is this important?

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 supports RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 serial standards, offering exceptional versatility for connecting a wide array of industrial devices. RS-232 is common for short-distance, point-to-point communication, while RS-422 allows for multi-drop communication with longer cable runs and higher speeds.

RS-485 is ideal for robust multi-drop networks, supporting up to 32 devices (or more with transceivers) over long distances, making it suitable for complex automation systems. Supporting all three on a single device eliminates the need for multiple converters, simplifying system design and reducing costs.

This broad compatibility ensures that users can connect legacy equipment and newer serial devices seamlessly, leveraging existing infrastructure while embracing modern USB connectivity without compromising on communication protocols.

Q4: Can I use the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 with different operating systems?

Yes, the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 is designed for broad compatibility, offering drivers for a comprehensive range of operating systems. This includes recent versions of Windows, such as Windows 11, 10, 8.1, and 8, as well as Windows Server editions.

Linux users can utilize drivers compatible with Kernel versions 6.x, 5.x, and 4.x, providing flexibility for various server or embedded system deployments. Support also extends to macOS, ensuring compatibility for users operating on Apple platforms.

Furthermore, the device supports virtual machine environments like VMware and Parallels Desktop, and even offers Android API support, making it adaptable for mobile or specialized computing platforms.

Q5: What are the power supply options for the UPort 1450I-G2?

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 offers flexible power options to suit different installation requirements and environmental considerations. It can be powered directly via the USB bus, drawing power from the host computer, which simplifies installation for less demanding applications.

Alternatively, for scenarios requiring more stable or higher power, an external power adapter can be used, accepting an input voltage range of 12 to 48 VDC. This external power option is beneficial for ensuring consistent operation, especially when multiple serial ports are active or when the USB host has limited power output.

This dual power capability ensures that the UPort 1450I-G2 can be reliably deployed in a wide variety of industrial settings, from desktop workstations to panel-mounted systems requiring robust and independent power sources.

Q6: How does the USB 3.2 SuperSpeed enhance serial communication performance?

USB 3.2 SuperSpeed, with its 5 Gbps data transfer rate, offers a significant performance boost compared to older USB standards. While serial communication speeds are typically limited by the UART and baud rate, the higher bandwidth of USB 3.2 ensures that the USB interface itself is not a bottleneck for data transfer.

This increased throughput is particularly beneficial when handling large amounts of data or when multiple serial ports are operating simultaneously. It allows the host computer to process data from the serial converter more efficiently, reducing latency and improving overall system responsiveness.

The USB 3.2 interface also provides more power (0.9A) to the device compared to USB 2.0, which can be advantageous for powering the device and any connected peripherals if applicable, though the UPort 1450I-G2 primarily relies on its own power input.

Q7: What is the significance of the latching USB cable design?

The latching USB cable design on the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 is a critical feature for ensuring reliable connectivity in industrial environments. It provides a more secure physical connection between the UPort and the host computer compared to standard USB cables, which can easily become dislodged.

This prevents accidental disconnections caused by vibration, movement, or slight tugs on the cable, which are common occurrences in industrial settings. A secure connection is vital for maintaining uninterrupted serial data flow, preventing data loss and system errors.

By employing a latching mechanism, the UPort 1450I-G2 minimizes the risk of connection failures, contributing to the overall robustness and dependability of the serial communication link, thus reducing potential downtime and troubleshooting efforts.

Q8: Can the UPort 1450I-G2 be used in wide-temperature industrial applications?

The standard Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 operates within a temperature range of 0 to 60°C (32 to 140°F). However, Moxa also offers "-T" models, such as the UPort 1450I-G2-T, which are specifically designed for wider operating temperature environments, ranging from -40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F).

These wide-temperature models are essential for deployments in harsh industrial conditions, including outdoor enclosures, unconditioned factory floors, or vehicles where temperature fluctuations are significant. They ensure continued reliable operation despite extreme environmental conditions.

When selecting a UPort 1450I-G2 for a specific application, it is important to verify the model number and its corresponding operating temperature range to ensure suitability for the target environment.

Q9: How does the 512-byte FIFO buffer improve serial communication?

The 512-byte FIFO (First-In, First-Out) buffer integrated into the Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 enhances serial communication efficiency by temporarily storing data. This buffer allows the UART to handle data in larger chunks, reducing the number of times the CPU needs to interrupt for data transfer.

This is especially beneficial at higher baud rates or when the host system is under heavy load. By offloading some of the data handling to the buffer, the CPU is freed up to perform other tasks, leading to improved overall system performance and lower latency.

A larger FIFO buffer, like the 512-byte one in the UPort 1450I-G2, helps to prevent data loss during peak traffic periods or when the system experiences momentary processing delays, ensuring a more stable and reliable serial connection.

Q10: What are the physical dimensions and mounting options for the UPort 1450I-G2?

The Moxa UPort 1450I-G2 has compact dimensions of 185 x 30 x 90.6 mm (7.28 x 1.18 x 3.57 inches), making it suitable for installation in space-constrained industrial environments. Its metal housing contributes to its ruggedness and durability.

For mounting, the device is designed to be compatible with DIN-rail mounting using optional kits, which is a standard and convenient method in industrial control cabinets. This allows for secure and organized installation alongside other industrial equipment.

While DIN-rail mounting is common, users may also find other mounting options available through Moxa's accessory catalog to suit specific enclosure or panel requirements. This adaptability ensures it can be integrated into various system architectures.