The ComNet CNFE2DOE2 allows any combination of two RS-232, RS-422, or 2 or 4-wire RS-485 serial data circuits to be inserted onto any 10/100 Mbps Ethernet-based network. Basic flow control/handshaking is included, when this device is used with RS232-compatible equipment requiring this functionality. The CNFE2DOE2 includes two serial data input/output ports, and two Ethernet ports; one accepting an SFP, and the other an RJ-45. The two serial ports may be configured by the user for communicating from one port to the other through either the user's network, or via a PC. It may be used as a protocol converter or as a media converter, for converting copper transmission media to fiber. Serial data appearing on either of the two serial data ports is converted to Ethernet, and transmitted to both the SFP and RJ-45 ports, permitting the unit to be simultaneously used as a media converter and a terminal server. A remote user and a local user can access at the same time local serial data devices connected to the serial data ports. Configuration of this device is performed through its internal web server. These models require the ordering of sold-separately interchangeable SFP modules for fiber type, distance and connectors. A software utility feature allows the user to locate other CNFE2DOE2 terminal server devices installed within the same subnet, and to create virtual communications ports for each serial port on the device. Com0com shareware is also included, allowing the user to create a virtual serial port on their PC, and then connect the PC to a TCP/IP connection using the com2tcp utility. The use of these two utilities enables communications through an Ethernet network to the CNFE2DOE2, and provides control of the remote hardware, as if it were connected directly to the PC COM port. Packaged in the ComNet middle-sized housing, the CNFE2DOE2 is ideal for those installations where space may be limited, and it may be DIN-rail mounted by the addition of the DINBKT1 Adaptor Plate.
