Hello !
I am using several relay boards with USB modules and I’m experiencing connection issues. Even without making any HW changes, a module will sometimes connect, sometimes not. In my configuration I have the USB modules connecting to the PC via a USB HUB via 3 cables with two feedthrus, so the overall length of the comm is quite long. Could that compromise the module ?
Thank you for any suggestions as to what might be happening !
Longer cables can theoretically cause an issue like this. I would find it more likely that the feedthroughs themselves are adding some resistance to the USB causing failures to communicate.
Are you seeing the serial port drop off the PC and come back on or are you just seeing the port fail to open?
I would recommend reducing to a direct connection to the PC on the same USB port and see if the issue persists. If not add one component at a time until the issue comes back.
Hello Jacob, I tried a few improvements including USB boosters, but the communication is still problematic. Perhaps ethernet modules would work better for my application. Do you have ethernet modules that could be directly swapped for the USB modules ?
These are boards I have:
ZADSR3210PROXR_PLUGGABLE-USB
Thank you !
Did you try a direct connection to the PC or using a different USB bus on your PC? Or a different PC?
As for the Ethernet module, yes, you can use our NCD5500: https://store.ncd.io/product/ethernet-to-serial-communications-module/
To swap it, just power down the board, remove the USB module (its in a two part pin socket), plug in the Ethernet Module (check for overhanging pins), and power the board back up.