Serial Data Switches

Simplify your RS-232 connections with a smart switch

Model 485DSS is a distributed smart switch.

  • Attach a unit to each “dumb” RS-232 device to make it a network node
  • Network up to 32 RS-232 devices up to 4,000 feet away
  • Requires 12 VDC power supply, Model 485PS2 recommended



Use this model when your RS-232 devices are scattered. The Model 485DSS uses RS-485 technology to reach RS-232peripherals up to 4,000 feet away. Each switch has a unique address. A simple serial command from your host turnscommunications on or off or requests status. QuickBasic demo software is included.

Model 232XS5 is a 5-port smart switch.

  • 5 RS-232 DB9 male slave ports
  • Expansion port provides up to 17 ports
  • Port powering is optional on all five ports
  • Supports 1200 to 115.2 Kbps
  • 120 VAC to 12 VDC power supply included

Its master port may be configured as either a DTE or DCE port. If the master port is DTE, the five other ports automatically become DCE ports. The port expansion feature allows cascading of up to four Model 232XS5 switches to provide up to 17 addressable RS-232 ports from a single PC port.

Model 232MSS2 is a compact four port mini switch.

  • 4 RS-232 DB9 female slave ports
  • Automatic transmit and receive control
  • Supports 1200 to 115.2 Kbps
  • Requires 12 VDC power supply, Model 232PS recommended

Its master port may be configured as either a DTE or DCE port. If the master port is DTE, the four other ports automatically become DCE ports. This model offers enhanced features that automatically control transmit/receive functions, stop inadvertent switching from binary/graphic file transfers and inactive slave devices from holding control of the master port.

Model 232BSS4, buffered, intelligent switch with Windows drivers.

  • Free setup software included for XP, 2000 or VISTA
  • Configure each port individually from your PC
  • 8 KB buffer on each port ensures no lost data
  • Connectors: master DB25 female, slaves DB9 male
  • Mix and match baud rates

A single RS-232 port on your PC can now communicate seamlessly with four or more RS-232 devices. Software configures ports and assigns a Windows COM port within Windows 2000, XP or VISTA. Once configured, simply run your existing application software to converse with each device as if it was directly wired to your PC. When used with B&B Electronics RS-485 or fiber optic converters, the Model 232BSS4 smart switch may be connected to PCs or serial devices miles away. Requires 12 VDC power. Model 232PS is recommended.
Model No.
Host Port
Slave Ports
Power Supply
232BSS4
DB25 female
4 DB9 male
232PS 12 VDC
232XS5
DB9 female
5 DB9 male
Included 12 VDC
232MSS2
DB25 female
4 DB9 female
232PS 12 VDC
485DSS
Terminal block
DB25 male
485PS2 12 VDC

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232PS
 120 VAC to 12 VDC @100 mA power supply
485PS2 120 VAC to 12 VDC @100 mA power supply