1. Product Overview

Product Name: USB Monitor Box
Model: ULOG301-I
Series: ULOG Series – Intelligent Monitored Interface Converters
Article Number: ULOG301-I
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
Website: [www.rayontech.com.tw](http://www.rayontech.com.tw) | [www.rayontech.com](http://www.rayontech.com)

The RAYON ULOG301-I is a high-performance, intelligent USB interface converter and monitoring module designed for industrial and laboratory environments requiring reliable, isolated serial communication. It supports one universal RS232/RS422/RS485 input and provides a ground-isolated RS422/RS485 output, enabling safe and flexible data conversion, monitoring, and analysis. The device integrates advanced monitoring capabilities, allowing users to observe and log bidirectional serial communication through a USB 2.0 interface.

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2. Key Features

- Universal Serial Interface Support: Configurable for RS232, RS422, or RS485 on the input side, and isolated RS422 or RS485 on the output side.
- Ground Isolation: Provides galvanic isolation between the USB/Serial1 side and the Serial2 side, preventing ground loops and ensuring signal integrity in electrically noisy environments.
- Dual-Port Monitoring: Creates two virtual COM ports on the host PC via USB, enabling simultaneous monitoring of transmit and receive data streams.
- Flexible Configuration: DIP switch selectable interface modes for both serial ports, allowing operation as converter, repeater, or bridge.
- Auto Data Direction Control (ADDC): Automatically manages data flow direction in RS485 mode, eliminating the need for manual control signals.
- USB 2.0 Connectivity: High-speed USB interface with integrated MCS7840 MOS chip and 512-byte FIFO per serial port for efficient data buffering.
- LED Indicators: Independent LED indicators for power and per-port TX/RX activity, providing real-time operational feedback.
- Compact Metal Enclosure: Durable metal housing ensures electromagnetic shielding and mechanical protection.
- Bus-Powered or Self-Powered Operation: Operates directly from USB bus power (5V, 300mA) or via external 5V adapter (UP110/UP220).
- Software Integration: Compatible with RAYON’s RAYREAL utility software for real-time data visualization, logging, and analysis.
- Versatile Applications: Can function as an interface converter, repeater, bridge, or isolator for RS232/RS422/RS485 systems.

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3. Technical Specifications

USB Interface:
- Connector Type: USB Type-B
- Standard: USB 2.0 compliant
- Controller: MOS MCS7840 chip
- FIFO Buffer: 512 bytes per serial port
- Power Source: USB bus power or external 5V DC adapter
- Current Consumption: 300 mA (typical)

Serial Port 1 (Input):
- Connector: DB9 male
- Configurable Modes: RS232 / RS422 / RS485 (via DIP switch)
- Signal Ground: Common with USB power ground
- Supported Signals: TXD, RXD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR (RS232 mode)
- RS485 Mode: Supports Auto Data Direction Control (ADDC)

Serial Port 2 (Output):
- Connector: DB9 male or plug-in screw terminal block (depending on configuration)
- Configurable Modes: RS422 / RS485 (via DIP switch)
- Isolation: Ground-isolated from USB and Serial1
- Signal Pins: TX+, TX−, RX+, RX−, isolated GND
- RS485 Mode: TX+/RX+ shorted as Data+, TX−/RX− shorted as Data−

LED Indicators:
- PWR: Power ON indicator
- Serial1 TXD/RXD: Activity indicators for input port
- Serial2 TXD/RXD: Activity indicators for isolated output port

Power Requirements:
- USB Bus Power Mode: 5V DC, 300 mA
- Self-Power Mode: 5V DC via external adapter (UP110/UP220 recommended)

Physical Characteristics:
- Dimensions: 92 mm (W) × 118 mm (L) × 27 mm (H)
- Enclosure: Metal case for EMI protection
- Weight: Approx. 250 g (typical)

Environmental Conditions:
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
- Storage Temperature: 0°C to 65°C
- Operating Humidity: 0% to 95% RH (non-condensing)
- Storage Humidity: 5% to 95% RH

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4. Functionality

The ULOG301-I functions as both a USB-to-serial converter and a serial communication monitor. When connected to a PC via USB, it enumerates as two virtual COM ports. These ports correspond to the two physical serial interfaces on the device:

- Serial1 (non-isolated): Configurable as RS232, RS422, or RS485.
- Serial2 (isolated): Configurable as RS422 or RS485.

The device can be configured via DIP switches to operate in multiple modes:

- Interface Converter: Converts between RS232/RS422/RS485 and isolated RS422/RS485.
- Repeater: Extends communication distance for RS422 or RS485 networks.
- Bridge: Connects two RS485 segments with galvanic isolation.
- Isolator: Provides electrical isolation between two serial devices.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation and control systems
- SCADA and PLC communication monitoring
- Serial data logging and protocol analysis
- Laboratory instrumentation and testing
- Embedded system debugging
- Field device integration and troubleshooting
- RS485 network extension and isolation

Compatibility:
- Compatible with Windows operating systems supporting USB virtual COM ports.
- Works with RAYON’s RAYREAL software for dual-channel data monitoring and analysis.
- Supports standard serial communication protocols and baud rates typical of RS232/RS422/RS485 systems.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- ULOG301-I USB Monitor Box
- USB Cable (U101): 6-foot USB Type-A to Type-B cable
- User Manual and Configuration Guide
- RAYREAL Utility Software (on CD or downloadable)

Optional Accessories:
- UP110 or UP220 5V DC Power Adapter (for self-powered operation)
- Mounting brackets or DIN-rail adapters (optional, depending on installation environment)
- Additional screw terminal connectors for RS485 wiring

Connectors:
- USB Type-B (host connection)
- DB9 male connectors for Serial1 and Serial2
- Plug-in screw terminal block for RS485 wiring (optional configuration)

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Host PC with available USB 2.0 port
- Supported operating system with USB-to-serial driver support
- Optional external 5V DC power supply (if not using USB bus power)

Installation Steps:
1. Connect the ULOG301-I to the PC using the supplied USB cable.
2. Install the appropriate USB-to-serial driver (if not automatically recognized).
3. Configure DIP switches to select desired interface types for Serial1 and Serial2.
4. Connect serial devices to the DB9 connectors or terminal blocks.
5. Launch RAYREAL or other terminal software to monitor or log data.
6. Verify LED indicators for power and data activity.

Mounting Options:
- Desktop placement for laboratory or office use
- Optional DIN-rail or panel mounting for industrial environments

Configuration:
- DIP switches allow selection of RS232, RS422, or RS485 modes.
- RS485 mode automatically enables ADDC for direction control.
- Serial parameters (baud rate, parity, stop bits) are configured via software on the host PC.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Data Throughput: Supports standard serial data rates up to 921.6 kbps (depending on host and driver).
- Buffering: 512-byte FIFO per serial port ensures smooth data flow and minimizes latency.
- Isolation Voltage: Provides galvanic isolation between Serial1 and Serial2 to prevent ground loop interference.
- Auto Direction Control: In RS485 mode, the ADDC feature automatically manages transmit/receive switching.
- Monitoring Capability: Simultaneous bidirectional data capture for both serial channels via USB.
- Latency: Low-latency USB 2.0 communication suitable for real-time monitoring.
- Reliability: Industrial-grade design with metal enclosure ensures stable operation in harsh environments.
- Limitations:
- Limited to two monitored serial channels per device.
- Requires host PC for monitoring and logging functions.
- USB cable length limited to 5 meters (standard USB specification).

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8. Standards & Compliance

- USB Compliance: Fully compliant with USB 2.0 specification.
- Serial Standards: Supports EIA/TIA RS232, RS422, and RS485 standards.
- Isolation: Meets industrial isolation requirements for ground loop prevention.
- Environmental Compliance: Designed for industrial temperature and humidity ranges.
- Safety & EMC: Metal enclosure provides EMI shielding; conforms to CE/FCC class industrial device standards (manufacturer dependent).
- RoHS Compliance: Manufactured using lead-free and environmentally safe materials.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Standard manufacturer warranty (typically 1 year, subject to regional terms).
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

Technical Support:
- Provided directly by RAYON Technology via email or phone.
- Engineering consultation available for custom applications and integration.
- Firmware and driver updates available through the manufacturer’s website.

Maintenance:
- No internal user-serviceable parts.
- Periodic inspection of connectors and cables recommended.
- Keep device in dry, dust-free environment for optimal performance.

Software & Updates:
- RAYREAL utility software included for monitoring and analysis.
- Source code provided for customization and integration into user applications.
- Compatible with standard terminal emulation and data logging software.

Related Products:
- TWIN485 Box: Dual isolated RS232 to RS422/RS485 converter.
- UTS112-I Box: USB to dual isolated RS232/422/485 converter.
- UP422I PCI Card: Dual isolated RS422/RS485 ports.
- UP485I PCI Card: Quad isolated RS422/RS485 ports.
- UCON301-I Box: Converter-only version (no monitoring).
- ULOG310-I Box: USB converter with isolated RS232 output.
- iLOG101 / iLOG333 Boxes: IP-based monitored converters for remote applications.

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Summary

The RAYON ULOG301-I is a robust, intelligent USB-to-serial interface converter with integrated monitoring functionality. It bridges RS232, RS422, and RS485 communication standards while providing galvanic isolation to protect connected equipment from electrical interference and ground potential differences. Its dual-port architecture allows simultaneous monitoring of bidirectional data streams, making it an invaluable tool for engineers, developers, and technicians involved in serial communication analysis, industrial automation, and system integration.

With flexible configuration options, LED diagnostics, and support for both USB bus power and external power, the ULOG301-I delivers a versatile and reliable solution for serial data conversion, isolation, and monitoring in demanding environments.