RS485 and RS232 to Ethernet Serial Server - Modbus Gateway

In this review the LINOVISION Dual Ports Serial Server is evaluated as a bridge for legacy serial equipment that need reliable remote connectivity. For integrators, facility managers, and engineers who still rely on RS232 or RS485 devices, the biggest reason to buy is its straightforward conversion to Ethernet and Modbus RTU/TCP gateway support, which lets existing sensors, POS terminals, PLCs, and medical devices be monitored over networks without replacing field hardware. The review focuses on connectivity, performance from the upgraded processor, and the convenience of the included cloud service.

Key Features

• RS232 & RS485 to Ethernet: Converts both serial standards to Ethernet so older devices can be integrated into modern networks for remote monitoring and control.
• Modbus RTU/TCP Gateway: Transparently translates Modbus signals so devices on different networks can communicate without custom protocol work.
• Multi-host Polling: Supports polling from up to 16 hosts which simplifies centralized supervision of many systems from one network point.
• Free Cloud Service: Includes a standard cloud plan for up to 30 managed devices via the Linovision AIoT RemoteMonit platform to reduce local server needs.
• Powerful Processor: Uses an upgraded Cortex-M7 400MHz processor to handle protocol translation and multiple connections with improved responsiveness.
• Industrial Design: Wall and DIN rail mountable with IP30 protection and wide operating temperature range for use in harsh environments.

Who It's For

The device is well suited to system integrators, plant operators, and IT staff who must keep RS232 and RS485 equipment in service while adding Ethernet-based monitoring. It is also practical for agricultural telemetry, POS networks, and light industrial automation where Modbus compatibility is required.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who need very large-scale device fleets beyond the free 30-device cloud allowance without negotiation, or projects that require wireless cellular out-of-the-box: this unit is focused on wired Ethernet and local/cloud-managed deployments.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Supports both RS232 and RS485 on the same gateway, reducing the need for multiple adapters.
• Modbus RTU/TCP conversion and multi-host polling makes integration with SCADA and control systems straightforward.
• Cortex-M7 400MHz processor improves reliability and responsiveness under load.
• Includes a standard free cloud service for up to 30 devices, speeding deployment for small installations.

Cons

• The free cloud plan covers up to 30 devices only; larger deployments require negotiation for additional capacity.
• It is a wired Ethernet solution only, so projects needing built-in cellular or Wi-Fi will need an alternate model or extra hardware.

Specifications

Manufacturer	LINOVISION
Serial Interfaces	RS232 and RS485 dual ports
Protocol Support	Modbus RTU/TCP conversion, multi-host polling (up to 16 hosts)
Processor	Cortex-M7, 400MHz
Cloud Service	Linovision AIoT RemoteMonit, free for up to 30 devices
Mounting & Protection	Wall and DIN rail mountable, IP30 protection
Operating Temperature	-40F to 185F

Our Verdict

The LINOVISION Dual Ports Serial Server is a practical, cost-effective gateway for projects that must preserve RS232 and RS485 equipment while adding Ethernet monitoring and Modbus interoperability. Its upgraded Cortex-M7 processor and multi-host support make it reliable for small to medium installations, and the included free cloud tier adds deployment flexibility, making it a good value for system integrators and plant operators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it support both RS232 and RS485 simultaneously?
Yes. The unit provides dual-port support so both RS232 and RS485 devices can be integrated to Ethernet.

How many hosts can poll devices through the gateway?
It supports multi-host polling for up to 16 hosts to enable centralized supervision by several controllers.

Is cloud management included?
The standard Linovision AIoT RemoteMonit cloud service is free for up to 30 managed devices; larger setups require negotiation for extra capacity or features.