I tested this between 2 computers. I cranked up the baud rates on both sides to the max (921600). I had each computer running a terminal session on the respective serial port. Communication back and forth worked fine. I only used short test leads between the 2 converters so I didn't test the range. To get the rated 1.2 km (if even possible) you would need some pretty good quality twisted pair shielded cabling I think.
This isn't quite a true test of the RS485 capability since for all I know it could have been using some other protocol since I was going between the 2 converters and nothing else in the middle. However, one would presume that in fact it was RS485 protocol that was being used.
This is a great way to extend RS485 connectivity to devices - not just for computers but things like Raspberry Pi and other microcontrollers with USB ports should be able to make use of this.
I didn't need to install a driver, my computer used a driver published by FTDI (Future Technologies Devices International). I don't know if it auto-loaded the driver or was just something that Windows had there by default, or perhaps had previously loaded from some other device I had previously used. Neither computer had an issue though so I suspect it may be a preloaded driver that comes with Windows.
I didn't test it with my Pi but I am hoping it works with that too. This seems like a good price for 2 of these, but I haven't comparison shopped so not sure what these typically go for.
Of note, this only supports 2 wire implementation, if you want to connect to a 4 wire RS485 device you will have to bridge, if that device doesn't support bridging (4 wire to 2 wire) you will be out of luck. However, the vast majority of RS-485 devices I have come across are fine with 2 wire mode and many only support that (very few applications use full duplex, half duplex is the norm).
| Brand | Waveshare |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Waveshare |
| Place of Business | China |
| Model | 2PCS USB TO RS485 |
| Part Number | 2PCS USB TO RS485 |
| Memory storage capacity | 8 GB |
| Memory Slots Available | 2 |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, PC |
| Batteries included | No |
| Batteries Required | No |
| Does it contain liquid? | No |
| Manufacturer | Waveshare |
| Item model number | 2PCS USB TO RS485 |
| Parcel Dimensions | 13.7 x 10.8 x 1.7 cm; 170 g |
| ASIN | B0B7MMSQXL |
