1. Product Overview

Product Name: APort200
Model: APort200
Series: APORT Series – IP to Serial Port Converters
Article Number: APort200
Manufacturer: Rayon Technology Co., Ltd.
Manufacturer Address: 2F, No. 177, Chung-Shan 2 Rd., Lu-Chou City, Taipei Hsien, Taiwan
Contact: Tel: +886-2-82858362 | Fax: +886-2-82857065
Email: rayon@ms1.hinet.net
Websites: [www.rayontech.com](http://www.rayontech.com), [www.computex.com.tw/rayon](http://www.computex.com.tw/rayon)

The Rayon APort200 is a compact, Linux-based IP device server designed to convert Ethernet (10/100Base-TX) communication into two independent RS232 serial interfaces. It enables remote serial device access over TCP/IP or UDP/IP networks, effectively bridging legacy serial equipment with modern Ethernet infrastructures. The APort200 belongs to Rayon’s APORT series, which includes models supporting various combinations of RS232, RS422, and RS485 interfaces.

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2. Key Features

- Dual RS232 Ports: Two independent RS232 DB9 male connectors for serial communication.
- Ethernet Connectivity: Auto-detecting 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interface via RJ45 connector.
- High-Performance CPU: 32-bit 100 MHz MIPS RISC processor for efficient data handling.
- Embedded Linux System: Provides stability, multitasking, and network protocol support.
- Flexible Network Modes: Supports TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP Send/Receive, and UDP Multi-Serial modes.
- Cross-Platform Drivers:
- Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7 Virtual COM driver (APORT and TPORT modes)
- Linux raw TTY (GVMODEM) driver
- SCO UNIX real TTY (RTTY) driver
- Web, Telnet, and Console Configuration: Multiple setup interfaces for flexible management.
- Virtual COM Port Support: Enables remote serial devices to appear as local COM ports on Windows systems.
- Firmware Upgradeable: Supports TFTP-based firmware updates via console and DIP switch control.
- Compact and Durable Design: Small form factor with robust construction suitable for industrial and commercial environments.
- Power Efficiency: Operates on 5VDC at 1200mA.
- Diagnostic LEDs: Indicate power, LAN link/activity, and serial port transmission status.
- Operating Environment: Designed for 5–40°C operation and up to 90% relative humidity.

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3. Technical Specifications

Processor & Memory:
- CPU: 32-bit 100 MHz MIPS RISC
- Flash ROM: 16 MB
- SDRAM: 16 MB

Network Interface:
- Type: 10/100 Mbps Ethernet (IEEE 802.3 compliant)
- Connector: RJ45
- Auto-negotiation for 10/100 Mbps

Serial Interfaces:
- Type: RS232
- Connector: DB9 male (x2)
- Port Count: 2
- Baud Rate: Up to 230,400 bps
- Console Port: Shared with Serial Port 1
- Signal Lines: TXD, RXD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR, DCD, RI, GND

Power Requirements:
- Input Voltage: 5 VDC
- Current Consumption: 1200 mA
- Power Adapter: UP110/UP220 (regulated 5VDC output)

Physical Characteristics:
- Dimensions: 92 × 118 × 27 mm
- Material: Industrial-grade enclosure (Rayon standard)
- Weight: Approx. 0.3 kg (typical)

Environmental Conditions:
- Operating Temperature: 5–40°C
- Storage Temperature: 0–65°C
- Operating Humidity: 10–90% RH (non-condensing)
- Storage Humidity: 5–90% RH

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4. Functionality

The APort200 functions as an IP-to-Serial converter, allowing serial devices to communicate over Ethernet networks. It encapsulates serial data into TCP or UDP packets, enabling remote access and control of serial equipment such as PLCs, sensors, barcode scanners, and industrial controllers.

Operating Modes:
1. TCP Server Mode:
The APort200 listens for incoming TCP connections on assigned port numbers. Ideal for applications where remote clients initiate communication. Supports RFC2217 for serial parameter control via Telnet.

2. TCP Client Mode:
The device initiates a connection to a specified server IP and port. Can be configured to connect automatically at startup or upon receiving serial data.

3. UDP Mode:
Enables broadcast or unicast communication to up to four remote hosts. Suitable for low-latency, connectionless data transmission.

4. UDP Multi-Serial Mode:
Allows multiple serial ports to share the same UDP port number, enabling simultaneous data distribution to multiple devices.

5. Real TTY Modes:
- COM Real TTY Mode: Uses UDP packets for Windows or SCO UNIX systems.
- GVMODEM Real TTY Mode: Uses TCP packets for Linux/UNIX systems with fixed pseudo-TTY mapping.

Configuration Interfaces:
- Web Browser: Access via default IP (192.168.1.254) and password (11111).
- Telnet: Command-line configuration and diagnostics.
- Console Port: Serial terminal setup (115200 bps, 8N1).

Compatibility:
- Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7 (Virtual COM via APORT or TPORT drivers)
- Linux (GVMODEM driver)
- SCO UNIX (RTTY driver)

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- APort200 main unit
- UP110/UP220 5VDC power adapter
- User manual and software CD (drivers, utilities, documentation)

Optional Accessories:
- Console cable (DB9 to DB9 or DB9 to RJ45, depending on setup)
- Ethernet cable (Cat5e or higher)
- Mounting brackets or DIN-rail kit (optional)

Connectors:
- 1 × RJ45 Ethernet port
- 2 × DB9 male RS232 ports
- Power jack (5VDC input)

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6. Installation & Setup

Hardware Installation:
1. Connect the APort200 to a network hub or switch using a standard Ethernet cable.
2. Attach the serial devices to the DB9 connectors.
3. Configure DIP switches:
- Bit 1: Console port enable (ON = console, OFF = normal serial port)
- Bit 2: Firmware upgrade mode (ON = upgrade, OFF = normal)
4. Connect the 5VDC power adapter.
5. Observe LED indicators for power and link status.

Software Setup:
- Use aport_ap.exe or tport_ap.exe utilities to detect and configure the device.
- Assign static IP, subnet mask, and gateway.
- Configure serial port parameters (baud rate, parity, stop bits, flow control).
- Map virtual COM ports in Windows using the provided driver utilities.
- For Linux/UNIX, edit configuration files (e.g., `/etc/gtstcpd/gtstcpd.cf`) to map pseudo-TTY devices.

Firmware Upgrade Procedure:
1. Set DIP switch bit 2 to ON (firmware upgrade mode).
2. Connect via console terminal (115200 bps).
3. Use TFTP client to upload new firmware (default IP 192.168.1.254).
4. Power cycle the device after completion.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Data Rate: Up to 230.4 kbps per serial port.
- Network Throughput: 10/100 Mbps auto-negotiation.
- Latency: Dependent on network conditions; optimized for low-latency serial data exchange.
- Concurrent Connections: Each serial port can handle one TCP/UDP session at a time.
- Buffering: Internal buffering managed by embedded Linux OS for reliable data flow.
- Reliability: Continuous operation supported by watchdog timers and stable firmware.
- Limitations:
- Console port shares Serial Port 1.
- Only one TCP client can connect per port in server mode.
- Network latency may affect timing-sensitive applications.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Ethernet Standards: IEEE 802.3 10Base-T / 100Base-TX
- Serial Standards: EIA/TIA RS232
- Protocol Support: TCP/IP, UDP/IP, Telnet, DHCP (optional), TFTP (for firmware)
- RFC Compliance: RFC2217 (Telnet COM Port Control Option)
- Operating System Compatibility: Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7, Linux, SCO UNIX
- Safety & Quality: Manufactured under Rayon’s quality control standards; compliant with CE and FCC Class A (typical for industrial communication devices).

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- One-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes damage from misuse, electrical surges, or unauthorized servicing.

Support & Maintenance:
- Technical support via email (rayon@ms1.hinet.net).
- Firmware updates available through Rayon’s website or authorized distributors.
- RMA (Return Material Authorization) required for repairs.
- Out-of-warranty repairs available at a flat-rate service charge.

Maintenance Recommendations:
- Use only the supplied 5VDC adapter.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity.
- Periodically check firmware version and update if necessary.
- Use surge protection for network and power connections in industrial environments.

Related Models in APORT Series:
- APORT020: Ethernet to 2 ground-isolated RS232 ports
- APORT101: Ethernet to 1 RS232 + 1 RS422/485 port
- APORT400: Ethernet to 4 RS232 ports
- APORT040: Ethernet to 4 ground-isolated RS232 ports
- APORT202: Ethernet to 2 RS232 + 2 RS422/485 ports
- APORT800: Ethernet to 8 RS232 ports

Use Cases:
- Industrial automation and SCADA systems
- Remote monitoring and control of serial devices
- POS systems and barcode reader integration
- Data acquisition and telemetry
- Legacy equipment networking in manufacturing or utilities

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Summary

The Rayon APort200 IP Device Server is a robust, dual-port RS232-to-Ethernet converter engineered for industrial and commercial network integration. With its 32-bit MIPS CPU, embedded Linux OS, and versatile communication modes, it provides a reliable bridge between traditional serial devices and modern IP networks. Its comprehensive driver support across Windows, Linux, and UNIX platforms ensures seamless integration into diverse system environments. The APort200’s compact design, flexible configuration options, and proven reliability make it an ideal solution for extending serial communication over Ethernet in automation, control, and data acquisition applications.