1. Product Overview

Product Name: IPort138
Model: IPORT138
Series: IPORT / APORT Series – IP to Serial Port Converters
Article Number: IPort138
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 / info@rayontech.com.tw
Websites: [www.rayontech.com.tw](http://www.rayontech.com.tw), [www.computex.com.tw/rayon](http://www.computex.com.tw/rayon)

The IPORT138 is a Linux-based IP device server designed to convert Ethernet (10/100Base-TX) communication into multiple serial interfaces (RS422/RS485). It provides eight independent serial ports, each configurable via DIP switches or software, enabling flexible integration into industrial automation, SCADA, and remote serial communication systems. The device supports TCP/IP and UDP/IP protocols, allowing transparent serial data transmission over IP networks.

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2. Key Features

- Multi-Port Serial Connectivity: Eight independent RS422/RS485 serial ports with DB9 male connectors.
- High-Speed Communication: Supports data rates up to 230,400 bps per port.
- Linux-Based Embedded System: Built on a 32-bit 100 MHz MIPS RISC CPU with 16 MB Flash ROM and 16 MB SDRAM for stable, multitasking operation.
- Flexible Network Interface: Auto-detecting 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interface (RJ45 connector).
- Multiple Operating Modes: Supports TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP Send/Receive, and UDP Multi-Serial modes.
- Cross-Platform Driver Support:
- Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7/8/10 Virtual COM driver (TPORT and RPORT modes).
- Linux raw TTY driver.
- SCO UNIX real TTY driver.
- Web and Telnet Configuration: Built-in web server and Telnet interface for remote configuration and monitoring.
- Auto Data Direction Control: Automatic transmit/receive switching for RS485 communication.
- DIP Switch Configuration: Hardware switches for setting RS422/RS485 interface modes and console access.
- Console Port: Shared with Serial Port 1 for direct system access and firmware management.
- Compact Industrial Design: Rugged metal housing suitable for control cabinets and industrial environments.
- Power Efficiency: Operates on 5 VDC at 1.6 A (typical).
- Environmental Tolerance: Operating temperature 5–40°C, humidity 10–90% RH.

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3. Technical Specifications

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

Network Interface:
- Ethernet: 10/100 Mbps auto-sensing
- Connector: RJ45 (100Base-TX)
- Protocols: TCP/IP, UDP/IP

Serial Interfaces:
- Type: RS422/RS485 (software or DIP switch selectable)
- Connector: DB9 male (x8)
- Baud Rate: Up to 230,400 bps
- Data Bits: 5, 6, 7, or 8
- Stop Bits: 1 or 2
- Parity: None, Even, Odd
- Flow Control: Hardware/Software selectable
- Console Port: Shared with Serial Port 1

Power Requirements:
- Input Voltage: 5 VDC
- Current Consumption: 1.6 A (typical)

Physical Characteristics:
- Dimensions: 205 × 135 × 48 mm
- Weight: Approx. 0.8–1.0 kg (depending on configuration)
- Material: Metal enclosure (Rayon industrial-grade housing)

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

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4. Functionality

The IPORT138 functions as an IP-to-serial converter, bridging Ethernet-based systems with legacy serial devices. It enables remote access, monitoring, and control of serial equipment over LAN or WAN networks.

Operating Modes:
- TCP Server Mode: The device listens for incoming TCP connections, allowing remote clients to access serial ports as if they were local COM ports.
- TCP Client Mode: Initiates a connection to a designated server, suitable for centralized data collection.
- UDP Send/Receive Mode: Enables broadcast or point-to-point communication with up to four remote hosts.
- UDP Multi-Serial Mode: Allows multiple serial ports to share the same UDP port number for simultaneous data distribution.

Configuration Interfaces:
- Web Browser: Access via default IP (192.168.1.254) for setup and monitoring.
- Telnet Console: Command-line configuration for advanced users.
- Serial Console: Accessible through Serial Port 1 when DIP switch is set to console mode.

Use Cases:
- Industrial automation and SCADA systems.
- Remote monitoring of PLCs, sensors, and controllers.
- Building management systems (BMS).
- Serial device networking for POS, barcode readers, and data loggers.
- Integration with MODBUS RTU/TCP networks.

Compatibility:
- Windows (NT through Windows 10) via Virtual COM drivers (TPORT/RPORT).
- Linux and UNIX systems via raw or real TTY drivers.
- Compatible with third-party COM redirector software supporting RFC2217.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- IPORT138 main unit.
- 5 VDC power adapter (UP110 or UP220).
- User manual and software CD (drivers, utilities, and documentation).

Optional Accessories:
- DIN-rail mounting kit.
- Replacement power adapter.
- RS422/RS485 communication cables.
- Console cable for firmware upgrade and diagnostics.

Connectors:
- 1 × RJ45 Ethernet port.
- 8 × DB9 male serial ports.
- Power input jack (5 VDC).

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6. Installation & Setup

Hardware Installation:
1. Connect the Ethernet port to a network hub or switch using a standard CAT5/6 cable.
2. Connect serial devices to the DB9 ports.
3. Configure DIP switches:
- Bit 1: Console mode (ON) or normal serial mode (OFF).
- Bit 2: Firmware upgrade mode (ON) or normal operation (OFF).
- Bits 3–4: Select RS422 or RS485 interface per port or globally.
4. Apply 5 VDC power using the supplied adapter.
5. Observe LED indicators for power and link status.

Software Setup:
- Access the web interface via the default IP (192.168.1.254) and password (11111).
- Configure network parameters (static IP, subnet mask, gateway).
- Assign serial port modes and communication parameters.
- Save and reboot to apply settings.

Driver Installation (Windows):
- Use aport_ap.exe or tport_ap.exe utilities to map virtual COM ports.
- Install drivers via ainstall.exe or tinstall.exe depending on mode.
- Verify COM port assignments in Device Manager.

Firmware Upgrade:
- Enter firmware upgrade mode via DIP switch (bit 2 ON).
- Use TFTP or Rayon’s wftp8.exe utility to upload new firmware.
- Default upgrade IP: 192.168.1.254.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Serial Throughput: Up to 230.4 kbps per port.
- Network Throughput: 10/100 Mbps auto-negotiation.
- Latency: Dependent on network conditions; optimized for low-latency serial data exchange.
- Concurrent Connections: Supports multiple simultaneous TCP/UDP sessions.
- Auto Data Direction Control: Ensures seamless half-duplex RS485 communication.
- Reliability: Embedded Linux OS provides stable multitasking and watchdog protection.
- Limitations:
- TCP latency may affect time-sensitive applications.
- Only one host can occupy a serial port in TPORT mode; RPORT mode allows shared access.
- Requires proper network configuration for firewall and port forwarding.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Network Standards: IEEE 802.3, 10/100Base-TX Ethernet.
- Serial Standards: EIA/TIA RS422 and RS485.
- Protocol Support: TCP/IP, UDP/IP, RFC2217 (Telnet COM Port Control).
- Operating System Compatibility: Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7/8/10, Linux, SCO UNIX.
- Regulatory Compliance:
- CE and FCC Class A (industrial environment).
- RoHS compliant materials.
- Firmware: Upgradable via TFTP or web interface.

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9. Additional Information

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

Support & Maintenance:
- Technical support via email (rayon@ms1.hinet.net).
- Firmware updates and driver downloads available from Rayon’s website.
- RMA (Return Material Authorization) required for repairs.

Maintenance Recommendations:
- Use only approved 5 VDC adapters (UP110/UP220).
- Maintain clean, dry installation environment.
- Periodically check firmware version and update as needed.

Related Models:
- APORT200: IP to two RS232 ports.
- APORT400: IP to four RS232 ports.
- APORT800: IP to eight RS232 ports.
- IPORT138I: IP to eight ground-isolated RS422/485 ports.
- IPORT114 / IPORT118: Mixed RS232/RS422/RS485 configurations.

Summary:
The Rayon IPORT138 is a robust, Linux-based IP-to-serial converter engineered for industrial and commercial applications requiring reliable multi-port serial communication over Ethernet. With eight configurable RS422/RS485 ports, comprehensive driver support, and flexible configuration options, it serves as a versatile bridge between legacy serial equipment and modern IP networks. Its embedded Linux architecture ensures stability, while its web-based management and firmware upgrade capabilities simplify deployment and maintenance in demanding networked environments.