Moxa MiiNePort E1-T Industrial IoT Embedded Communication Module

The Moxa MiiNePort E1-T is an industrial IoT embedded communication module engineered for seamless serial-to-Ethernet conversion, enabling legacy serial devices to connect to modern networks with minimal integration effort. Its compact, RJ45-sized form factor, low power consumption, and robust operating temperature range make it an ideal solution for manufacturers seeking to enhance the connectivity of their products for industrial IoT applications. The module is powered by Moxa's proprietary MiiNe SoC, a second-generation System-on-Chip designed for efficiency and performance in embedded serial-to-Ethernet applications. This ensures reliable data transfer and network access for a wide array of industrial devices.

Product Specifications

| Feature                 | Specification                                                                                                          |

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

| CPU                 | 32-bit Arm Core                                                                                                        |

| Memory              | 2 MB Flash, 4 MB SDRAM                                                                                                 |

| Ethernet Port       | 1 x 10/100BaseT(X) (RJ45 connector), Auto MDI/MDI-X, 1.5 kV magnetic isolation protection                               |

| Serial Port         | 1 x TTL                                                                                                                |

| Baudrate            | 50 bps to 230.4 kbps                                                                                                   |

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

| Stop Bits           | 1, 1.5, 2                                                                                                              |

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

| Flow Control        | None, RTS/CTS, XON/XOFF                                                                                                |

| Configurable DIO    | 1 x Channel (by software)                                                                                              |

| Digital Input       | 1 x Channel                                                                                                            |

| Digital Output      | 1 x Channel                                                                                                            |

| Input Voltage       | 3.3 VDC (±5%)                                                                                                          |

| Input Current       | 160 mA @ 3.3 VDC                                                                                                       |

| Operating Temperature | -40 to 85°C (-40 to 185°F)                                                                                             |

| Storage Temperature | -40 to 60°C (-40 to 140°F)                                                                                             |

| Ambient Humidity    | 5 to 95% RH (non-condensing)                                                                                           |

| Dimensions          | 33.9 x 16.25 x 13.5 mm (1.33 x 0.64 x 0.53 in)                                                                           |

| Weight              | 9 g (0.02 lb)                                                                                                          |

| Certifications      | EMC: EN 55032/35, EMI: CISPR 32, FCC Part 15B Class B, EMS: IEC 61000-4-2/4-3/4-4/4-5/4-6/4-11, Environmental: IEC 60068-2-1/2-3, Shock: IEC 60068-2-27, Vibration: IEC 60068-2-6 |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa MiiNePort E1-T stands out in the industrial IoT embedded communication module market due to its unparalleled integration ease and compact design. Powered by Moxa's second-generation MiiNe SoC, it offers a robust serial-to-Ethernet solution that is among the world's smallest embedded device servers. This tiny footprint, comparable to an RJ45 connector, allows for effortless integration into existing serial devices without requiring significant hardware modifications or opening device casings. Its extremely low power consumption further enhances its appeal for embedded applications where power efficiency is critical. Moxa's NetEZ technology suite, including EXTrigger, SCM (Serial Command Mode), AutoCFG, and MCSC (Multi-Channel Serial Communication), significantly simplifies integration and management. NetEZ's AutoCFG feature enables mass configuration of multiple modules simultaneously, accelerating time-to-market and reducing manual errors. MCSC allows devices to act as both server and client concurrently, facilitating multitasking applications and enhancing operational flexibility.

Key Application Scenarios

The MiiNePort E1-T is purpose-built for manufacturers aiming to modernize their serial-based equipment for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Its primary application is enabling legacy serial devices, such as industrial controllers, sensors, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs), to communicate over Ethernet networks. This is crucial for applications in:

  Industrial Automation: Integrating older machinery and control systems into modern SCADA and MES systems for remote monitoring, control, and data acquisition.  Building Automation: Connecting climate control systems, access control, and lighting management devices to a central network for enhanced efficiency and remote management.  Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Enabling kitchen printers, barcode scanners, and other peripherals to communicate wirelessly or over a standard Ethernet network.  Healthcare Devices: Facilitating network connectivity for medical equipment that relies on serial communication for data logging and monitoring.  Environmental Monitoring: Allowing sensors for temperature, humidity, and air quality to transmit data over an IP network for real-time analysis.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa MiiNePort E1-T is streamlined through Moxa's NetEZ technology and comprehensive software tools. Manufacturers can leverage the module's Real COM mode, which allows existing serial communication software to function seamlessly over Ethernet without modification. Configuration can be performed through various methods, including a Windows utility, Telnet console, or a web console (HTTP). For advanced management and troubleshooting, Moxa provides Windows and Linux Real TTY drivers, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of operating systems and kernel versions. The AutoCFG feature simplifies the deployment of multiple modules by allowing pre-configuration of settings, significantly reducing setup time and potential errors during mass deployment. The module's small form factor and minimal power requirements (3.3 VDC, 160 mA) make it easy to embed directly onto a host device's PCB, further simplifying system integration.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The MiiNePort E1-T operates reliably within an extended temperature range of -40 to 85°C, making it suitable for harsh industrial environments. Its built-in 1.5 kV magnetic isolation protection on the Ethernet port safeguards against electrical surges and network disturbances, mitigating the risk of hardware damage. For troubleshooting, Moxa provides features like EXTrigger, which allows for quick resetting of network settings with a single button press, and SCM, which enables on-site configuration via serial communication without needing an internet connection. This on-site diagnostic capability is invaluable for field technicians. Firmware updates are available to address potential security vulnerabilities and enhance functionality, with release notes detailing specific bug fixes and new features, such as improved security protocols and multicast support in UDP mode.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The MiiNePort E1-T offers significant long-term value through its compatibility with various operating systems and its role in bridging legacy serial devices to modern IIoT platforms. It supports a wide range of Windows and Linux drivers, ensuring backward compatibility and ease of migration for existing systems. The module's ability to convert serial data to Ethernet packets directly enables seamless integration with cloud-based IIoT platforms, data loggers, and network management systems. This enhances the scalability of existing infrastructure, allowing for the addition of more devices to the network without complete system overhauls. The continuous firmware updates from Moxa also ensure that the MiiNePort E1-T remains secure and capable of supporting evolving network protocols and industrial standards, maximizing its long-term utility and return on investment.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What operating systems are compatible with the Moxa MiiNePort E1-T?

The Moxa MiiNePort E1-T supports a broad spectrum of operating systems, ensuring wide compatibility for diverse industrial applications. This includes numerous Windows versions, from Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000 up to the latest Windows 10 (x86/x64) and Windows Server editions.

It also offers robust support for various Linux distributions, covering kernel versions from 2.4.x through 5.x, making it suitable for embedded Linux systems. For UNIX-based systems, it provides fixed TTY drivers for SCO UNIX, SCO OpenServer, UnixWare 7, and others.

Furthermore, the MiiNePort E1-T is compatible with Android API versions starting from 3.1.x, enabling integration into mobile and embedded Android devices.

Q2: How does the MiiNePort E1-T handle power requirements?

The MiiNePort E1-T operates on a low input voltage of 3.3 VDC, making it highly power-efficient. Its typical input current draw is approximately 160 mA at 3.3 VDC.

This low power consumption is a key advantage for embedded systems where power budgets are often constrained, such as battery-operated devices or systems with limited power sources.

The module's design prioritizes energy efficiency, contributing to reduced operational costs and thermal management in densely packed enclosures.

Q3: What serial communication standards does the MiiNePort E1-T support?

The MiiNePort E1-T specifically supports the TTL serial standard, which is a common interface for many embedded microcontrollers and devices.

It offers flexible serial communication parameters, including configurable data bits (5, 6, 7, 8), stop bits (1, 1.5, 2), and parity settings (None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark).

The module also supports various flow control methods, such as None, RTS/CTS, and XON/XOFF, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of serial devices and communication protocols.

Q4: Can the MiiNePort E1-T be used in extreme temperature environments?

Yes, the Moxa MiiNePort E1-T is designed for industrial applications and features an extended operating temperature range. It can function reliably in temperatures from -40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F).

This wide temperature tolerance makes it suitable for deployment in harsh conditions, including outdoor installations, unconditioned enclosures, and environments with significant temperature fluctuations.

The robust thermal design ensures consistent performance and longevity even when subjected to extreme temperatures, which is a critical requirement for industrial IoT deployments.

Q5: What is NetEZ technology and how does it benefit integration?

Moxa's NetEZ technology is a suite of tools designed to simplify the integration of Ethernet capabilities into serial devices. It significantly reduces the effort and time required for manufacturers to network-enable their products.

Key NetEZ features include EXTrigger for easy device resetting, AutoCFG for automated mass configuration, and MCSC for simultaneous server/client operation, all aimed at easing deployment and troubleshooting.

By abstracting much of the complexity of network integration, NetEZ technology allows engineers to focus on their core product development rather than network protocols.

Q6: How does the MiiNePort E1-T facilitate troubleshooting?

The MiiNePort E1-T includes several features to simplify troubleshooting. The EXTrigger button allows for a quick reset of network settings, reducing downtime and simplifying field maintenance.

The Serial Command Mode (SCM) enables configuration and diagnostics through the serial port itself, which is useful when network access is unavailable or complex.

Additionally, Moxa provides comprehensive diagnostic tools and detailed release notes for firmware, which highlight bug fixes and potential issues, aiding in the identification and resolution of problems.

Q7: What are the physical dimensions of the MiiNePort E1-T?

The MiiNePort E1-T is remarkably compact, measuring only 33.9 x 16.25 x 13.5 mm (1.33 x 0.64 x 0.53 inches).

Its small size is comparable to a standard RJ45 connector, allowing it to be easily embedded into existing device designs without requiring substantial space.

This ultra-compact form factor is a significant advantage for manufacturers aiming to miniaturize their products or upgrade existing designs with network connectivity without major re-engineering.

Q8: What network protocols are supported by the MiiNePort E1-T?

The MiiNePort E1-T supports a comprehensive set of standard IP networking protocols essential for industrial communication. This includes TCP/IP for reliable data transmission, UDP for efficient broadcasting, and ARP for address resolution.

It also incorporates protocols for network management and configuration, such as DHCP for automatic IP address assignment, HTTP for web-based management, and SNMP for network monitoring.

Other supported protocols include BOOTP, Telnet, TFTP, and ICMP, providing a robust foundation for integration into diverse network environments.

Q9: What is the maximum serial baud rate supported by the MiiNePort E1-T?

The Moxa MiiNePort E1-T supports serial communication speeds of up to 230.4 kbps.

This baud rate is sufficient for many industrial serial communication protocols and applications requiring moderate data transfer rates between serial devices and the network.

For applications requiring higher serial speeds, Moxa offers other models, such as the MiiNePort E1-H-T, which supports baud rates up to 921.6 kbps.

Q10: Can the MiiNePort E1-T be used for multi-channel serial communication?

Yes, the MiiNePort E1-T features Moxa's MCSC (Multi-Channel Serial Communication) technology, enabling dual connections and dual channels for multitasking applications.

This allows a single MiiNePort E1-T module to function as both a TCP server and a TCP client simultaneously, facilitating complex communication scenarios where a device needs to interact with multiple network entities.

MCSC enhances the operational flexibility and efficiency of connected devices, allowing them to manage concurrent data streams and protocols effectively over a single Ethernet connection.