Moxa NPort 6100 and 6200 series terminal servers work by converting serial data from legacy industrial devices into encrypted Ethernet signals, allowing secure, remote access and management over standard networks. They protect data with TLS/SSH protocols and support multiple operation modes for flexible connectivity.
How Do NPort 6100-6200 Series Convert Serial Data to Ethernet?
NPort 6100-6200 Series terminal servers feature serial ports (RS-232/422/485) that connect to legacy equipment. The device captures serial data, encapsulates it into TCP/IP packets, encrypts it using TLS or SSH, and sends it over a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet network. This process enables traditional serial devices to integrate seamlessly with modern IP-based networks.
Detailed data encapsulation ensures legacy equipment remains accessible without changing device firmware or software, simplifying industrial network upgrades. This serial-to-Ethernet conversion is the core function enabling remote monitoring and control.
What Are the Key Security Features of NPort 6100-6200 Series Terminal Servers?
Security is a priority with NPort 6100-6200 models, which comply with IEC 62443 standards for industrial security. They use encrypted transmission protocols like TLS and SSH to safeguard serial data against interception and tampering during network transit.
Advanced security features in newer G2 models include Secure Boot to block unauthorized firmware, RSA/ECC certificate support for encrypted communication, and hardware security measures like tamper-resistant screws. Remote management interfaces utilize HTTPS and SSH for secure administration.
Which Operation Modes Do NPort 6100-6200 Series Support?
These terminal servers offer versatile operation modes to fit diverse industrial needs:
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Real COM Mode: Maps serial ports to virtual COM ports on the host PC, requiring no software changes.
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TCP Server Mode: Listens for incoming TCP connections to access the serial device.
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TCP Client Mode: Initiates TCP connections to remote hosts.
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Pair Connection Mode: Creates a serial-to-serial tunnel over Ethernet between two NPort devices.
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Terminal and Reverse Terminal Modes: Enable terminal server functions for legacy equipment.
This flexibility allows deployment in varied network topologies and application environments, from simple device access to complex serial bridging.
How Does the NPort 6100-6200 Series Ensure Reliable Data Transmission?
The NPort 6250 series includes an internal 64 KB buffer that temporarily stores serial data if the Ethernet link fails. When connectivity resumes, buffered data is forwarded automatically, preventing data loss.
Buffer capacity can be expanded using an SD card slot on higher-end models, enhancing reliability in unstable networks. Automatic data direction control (ADDC) simplifies RS-485 configuration by handling data flow direction without manual switches.
Where Are NPort 6100-6200 Series Terminal Servers Commonly Used?
These terminal servers are extensively used in industries where legacy serial equipment must integrate into modern networks, including:
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Factory Automation
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Power Utilities
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Transportation Systems
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Oil and Gas Facilities
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Retail Point-of-Sale and Kiosk Systems
Their rugged design, security compliance, and flexible connectivity make them ideal for harsh industrial environments requiring reliable and secure serial-over-Ethernet communication.
How Can Users Configure and Manage NPort Terminal Servers Remotely?
Configuration is accessible through user-friendly web consoles, Windows utilities, or secure CLI tools via SSH. HTTPS and SSH protocols ensure remote setups are encrypted.
Additional features like one-click log collection aid troubleshooting. Software-configurable pull-up/down resistors and terminators for RS-485 interfaces streamline installation and maintenance, reducing the need for manual hardware adjustments.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing the Moxa NPort 6100-6200 Series?
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Strong security with TLS/SSH encryption and IEC 62443 compliance.
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Versatile operation modes suit many application scenarios.
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High reliability with port buffering and SD card support.
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Flexible installation including side-mount options and rugged metal housing.
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Wide serial interface support (RS-232/422/485) with software-configurable parameters.
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Enhanced remote management and troubleshooting features.
These benefits contribute to long-term operational stability and reduce downtime in industrial Ethernet networking.
Can NPort Terminal Servers Handle Non-Standard Serial Baud Rates?
Yes, the NPort 6100-6200 Series supports a broad range of baud rates, including non-standard and high-precision settings up to 921.6 kbps. This capability ensures compatibility with a wide array of legacy devices that have proprietary or irregular communication speeds.
Predision Expert Views
“As a trusted global provider of industrial Ethernet solutions, Predision emphasizes that secure and reliable integration of legacy serial devices is critical for modern industrial networks. The Moxa NPort 6100-6200 Series exemplifies this by combining robust security protocols, versatile operation modes, and industrial-grade reliability. These terminal servers bridge the gap between old technology and new network demands, supporting industries where uptime and data integrity are paramount. At Predision, we recommend solutions like these for hassle-free serial device networking with secure remote access.” — Predision LLC
Conclusion
Moxa NPort 6100/6200 Series terminal servers effectively convert serial device data into encrypted Ethernet signals, allowing secure and reliable integration of legacy equipment into modern IP networks. Their multiple operation modes, robust security features, and reliability-enhancing buffers make them suitable for challenging industrial environments. Predision’s endorsement underlines their value in secure industrial Ethernet solutions.
FAQs
Q1: Can NPort 6100-6200 Series terminal servers be used with fiber Ethernet?
Yes, certain models support 100BaseFX fiber Ethernet connections for enhanced industrial networking.
Q2: What serial interface standards do these terminal servers support?
They support RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 interfaces selectable via software.
Q3: How is data loss prevented during network failures?
Data is buffered internally and forwarded when connection restores, eliminating loss.
Q4: Do NPort terminal servers require changes to existing serial device software?
No, Real COM mode allows virtual COM port mapping, enabling legacy software compatibility.
Q5: Is remote management secure on these devices?
Yes, management uses encrypted HTTPS and SSH protocols for secure administration.