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Home / Technology / Communication / Access Network / Difference Between RS232 and RS485

Difference Between RS232 and RS485

Posted on February 11, 2011 by olivia Last updated on: February 11, 2011

RS232 vs RS485
RS232 and RS485 are standards for data cables. To
exchange data between nodes on a network, the most
commonly used tools are line drivers and receivers. It is
difficult to set up a network with smooth data transfer if
there is noise, ground level differences, mismatch of
impedance and other dangers present. There are
organizations like Electronic Industry association (EIA)
and Telecommunication industries Association (TIA)
that set the standards for the production of cables and
other tools used in setting up of network. This ensures compatibility between devices provided by
different manufacturers, and allows for better and smooth transfer of data over long routes and also
for improved data rates. Earlier EIA suggested use of the prefix RS before cables, and hence they
were labeled as RS232 and RS485. RS only meant Recommended Standards, but the system now
adopted is to use the prefix EIA instead of RS.
Data transfer is broadly classified as single ended and differential. RS232, which was meant for
single ended was launched in 1962, and despite its limitations, has remained in use till today. RS232
allows for data transfer at relatively slow speeds (up to 20K bits/sec) and short distances (up to 50 ft).
When data transfer has to take place over long distances, and also at a faster rate, single ended
methods prove to be inefficacious. This is when differential data transmission comes into picture as it
provides superior performance. These signals negate the bad effects of ground shifts and induced
noise signals on a network. RS422 was produced to meet such requirements, but over time it has
been found that RS422 cannot be used to construct a true multi point network. Enter RS485, which
meets all the requirements of a truly multi point network. RS485 specifies up to 32 drivers and 32
receivers on a single bus. RS485 drivers are also capable of handling the problem of data collision
and bus fault conditions.
There are many differences between RS232 and RS485 and signaling mode is prominent among
them. Whereas RS485 is balanced, RS232 is not balanced. Here is a look between the specifications
of RS232 and RS485 which tell the story.

Specifications

RS232

RS485

Mode of Operation

Single ended

Differential

No. of drivers and

1 driver, 1

32 drivers, 32

receivers

receiver

receivers

Max. cable length

50 ft

4000 ft

Data rate

20kb/s

10Mb/s

Driver output voltage

+/-25V

-7V to +12V

Signal level(Loaded min)

+/-5V to +/-15V

+/-1.5 V

+/-25V

+/-6V

BUSINESS

AUTOMOBILE

Signal level (Unloaded

Max)
Driver load impedance

3k to 7k

54

Receiver input V range

+/-15V

-7 to +12V

Receiver input sensitivity

+/-3V

+/-200mV

Receiver input resistance

3k to 7k

More than 12k

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Filed Under: Access Network

Tagged With: compatibility, data transfer, differential Data transfer, EIA, multi point network, Recommended Standards, RS232,
RS422, RS485, single ended Data transfer, standards for data cables, TIA

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