WebUSB-to-RS485 adapter/b

The Web485 board works as a standard USB-to-RS485 adapter, but with WebUSB support.

WebUSB JavaScript API allows web-based applications to access USB devices. WebUSB is supported by the Google Chrome browser and is also included in the Chromium open-source browser builds. If you are using Chrome (or a Chromium-based) browser, your web pages will be able to access RS485 devices connected to the Web485 board.

Tibbo is planning to make extensive use of the WebUSB functionality. The first example of the Web485 board's usefulness is our web-based test application for RS485 Modbus Sensors (Bus Probes). There is also a generic PuTTY-like terminal app called WebTerminal.

To aid in the development of web-based apps (HTML pages) supporting the Web485 board, we are offering an easy-to-use WebSerial library.

Key Features

• Functions as a WebUSB-to-RS485 adapter*.
• Baudrates up to 3 Mbps.
• 4-position terminal block:
  • 485+ line (TX+ and RX+ lines tied together);
  • 485- line (TX- and RX- lines tied together);
  • +5V power output**;
  • Ground.

* WebUSB is supported by Chrome and Chromium-based browsers.

** The power is provided by the USB port of your PC. Make sure not to cause an overcurrent condition.

• Four status LEDs:
  • Blue power LED;
  • Red TX LED (ON when transmitting);
  • Green RX LED (ON when receiving);
  • Yellow RD/WR LED (ON when transmitting*).
• Full-speed (12Mbps) USB2.0 interface on a USB-C connector.
• USB-powered, no additional external power necessary.
• Supplied with a USB-A-to-USB-C cable.
• Compact, outside dimensions only 57 x 47 x 29 mm.

* Light pulses emitted by this LED have low brightness and may not be clearly visible.