A device server is a hardware device that provides specialized network-based functions, independent of an operating system or proprietary protocol. It allows users to connect various devices or machines to a network and transfer serial data over Ethernet. This way, electronic devices can communicate with each other through M2M (machine to machine) communication in several applications such as manufacturing, healthcare, automation, and more.
Why do we Need Device Servers?
Before device servers, PCs were used to network serial devices, but it required software installation on both the device and the PC. It was not a satisfactory solution, as it led to several problems during network software access. A device server solves these issues by enabling direct network access to connected devices as if they were locally connected to a serial port. This kind of connectivity becomes essential for organizations that own devices with USB, RS232, RS422, or RS485 serial ports and want to connect them to an Ethernet network.
How do Device Servers Work?
Device servers have a wired Ethernet network connection on one end and one or more serial ports on the other. Once connected, the device shows up as an IP address on the network, allowing various devices to connect to it. This way, multiple devices can share access to connected specialty devices. It is best to use advanced device servers that offer user authentication, data encryption, and other security features to ensure data transmissions on the network are secured from cyber threats.
FAQs
What are the advantages of using device servers?
Device servers enable users to connect various devices with USB, RS232, RS422, or RS485 serial ports to an Ethernet network for efficient data transfer. This kind of connectivity becomes essential for organizations that own devices in manufacturing, healthcare, automation, and more. Device servers are easy to install and offer a more reliable and efficient network connectivity solution.
Are device servers secure to use?
Although some device servers may be simple devices, it is essential to use those with advanced security features such as data encryption and user authentication to ensure network data transmissions and access to network devices are protected.
What are the common applications of device servers?
Device servers can be used in several applications such as manufacturing, healthcare, automation, and more. They offer M2M communication in various industries, making connectivity between devices easy to achieve.
Conclusion
Device servers provide specialized network-based functions and allow several devices to connect to a network and communicate over Ethernet. They are simple to install, reliable, and offer efficient network connectivity solutions. Also, networking several devices through device servers becomes essential for organizations that own devices with USB, RS232, RS422, or RS485 serial ports and want to connect them to an Ethernet network.
