BB-422LP9R RS-232 to RS-422 Converter
The B+B SmartWorx BB-422LP9R is a port-powered two-channel RS-232 to RS-422 converter designed for industrial automation, legacy equipment integration, and serial communication applications. This RS-422 converter eliminates the need for external power supplies by drawing energy directly from RS-232 handshake lines (DTR and RTS), making it ideal for retrofit installations and space-constrained environments. Perfect for engineers and technicians who need reliable signal conversion without additional infrastructure.
Key Features
- Port-powered operation — no external power supply required
- Two-channel RS-232 to RS-422 signal conversion
- Converts TD and RD RS-232 lines to balanced RS-422 signals
- Powered directly from DTR and RTS handshake lines
- Compact industrial-grade design for harsh environments
- Plug-and-play installation for legacy system upgrades
- Galvanic isolation for noise immunity and ground loop elimination
- Wide operating temperature range for industrial applications
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
B+B SmartWorx |
| Model Number |
BB-422LP9R |
| Conversion Type |
RS-232 to RS-422 (2-channel) |
| Power Source |
Port-powered (DTR/RTS handshake lines) |
| Signal Lines |
TD (Transmit Data) and RD (Receive Data) |
| Interface Standard |
RS-232 input, RS-422 output |
| Data Rate |
Up to 115.2 kbps |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +85°C |
| Connector Type |
DB-9 (standard serial) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an RS-232 to RS-422 converter used for?
An RS-232 to RS-422 converter enables communication between legacy RS-232 devices and modern RS-422 systems. RS-422 offers superior noise immunity and longer transmission distances (up to 4,000 feet), making it ideal for industrial environments. The BB-422LP9R bridges this gap without requiring system redesign.
Does the BB-422LP9R require external power?
No. The BB-422LP9R is port-powered, drawing energy directly from RS-232 DTR and RTS handshake lines. This eliminates the need for external power supplies, reducing installation complexity and cost in retrofit applications.
How does port-powered RS-422 conversion improve industrial automation?
Port-powered converters like the BB-422LP9R simplify industrial automation deployments by reducing wiring requirements and power infrastructure costs. The two-channel design supports simultaneous TD/RD conversion, enabling full-duplex communication in space-constrained industrial control systems.
What are the distance limitations for RS-422 signals from this converter?
RS-422 signals from the BB-422LP9R can reliably transmit up to 4,000 feet at standard data rates, compared to RS-232's typical 50-foot limit. This extended range makes it essential for large facility automation, remote sensor networks, and distributed industrial control applications.
