RS-485 Fiber Optic Links

Overview

For some applications, converting RS-485 (BACnet and Modbus) to a fiber optic link is desirable.

• Increased range of 2.5 miles (4 km) or more.
• Total electrical isolation, which can be desirable when operating in 480 Vac or 600 Vac panels.
• Complete immunity to electromagnetic interference.

Solutions

Continental Control Systems doesn’t make a WattNode meter with a fiber optic cable interface and doesn’t sell converters, but we are aware of at least two sources for converters from RS-485 to fiber:

• B&B Electronics Serial to Fiber Optic Converters
• Telebyte RS-485 to Fiber Optic Line Driver

Keywords: RS485, EIA485, EIA-485