The Industrial Automation Group of Advantech announces the addition of two new 1U rackmount models to its line of Serial Device Servers. The EKI-1528 and EKI-1526 feature 8 and 16 RS-232/422/485 serial ports in a 1U rackmount chassis, which are ideal for high-density remote monitoring, management and control of serial devices over Ethernet and Internet Protocol (IP) networks.

Transparent Access to Serial Devices

For easy integration with COM-port based Windows™ applications, included COM-port redirection software allows virtual access to remote serial devices, just as if they were onboard COM-ports. With this tool, integration with PC-based systems takes just a few minutes, and it’s transparent to host application software as well as connected equipment.

In addition to Virtual COM-port operation, the EKI-1528 and EKI-1526 support native TCP/IP and UDP/IP aware applications like OPC Servers and HMI systems that support serial encapsulation. Both client and server modes are supported, for applications where serial device initiated or host initiated communications are required.

Redundancy LAN ports for High Availability

Dual 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connections ensure continuous communication, even in the event of a network problem. With one port assigned as primary and the other as a backup, loss of the primary connection initiates an immediate and automatic switch-over to the backup, ensuring data integrity and peace-of-mind.

Advanced Operating Modes, and Multi-Access

Where one-to-many or many-to-one connections are required, Multi-Access mode allows a single RS-232/422/485 serial device to send or receive data to multiple remote hosts. This is particularly important where multiple PC-based system need access to a single serial device for shared access, or where replacing systems using RS-422/485 bus architectures.

Easy to Setup and Configuration

All that is needed for setup is a PC or laptop and a web browser. Complete access to all configuration parameters is supported, and a built-in serial port monitor helps diagnose issues with attached devices, eliminating the need for additional equipment or software. The EKI-1528 and EKI-1526 also support setup via a dedicated serial console port, telnet via the network interface, or through the included Windows-based setup and configuration utility.

Enterprise Ready

For seamless integration with enterprise IT systems, both models support SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), which allows remote performance and availability monitoring. In the event of a critical system event, alarm messages can be sent via SNMP trap to enterprise monitoring systems, or by e-mail notification to system operators.

Ruggedized for Industrial Applications

Like other EKI Industrial Ethernet family products, these Device Servers are designed for demanding industrial applications. Utilizing low power components and convection cooling, there is no need for cooling fans, eliminating a common end-user worry about maintenance and downtime. Additionally, the serial ports include built-in 15KV ESD protection to protect against static discharge.

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