F5-BSC01 Flexem Serial Expansion Board RS232/485 Module

Product Overview

Flexem F5-BSC01 is a serial ports expansion board. It installs onto the CPU front slot. This module adds one configurable serial channel. It supports both RS485 and RS232 communication. Use it to connect legacy equipment, drives, or HMIs. The board draws power directly from the main unit. No external power supply is needed. Its compact size saves panel space. Ideal for industrial automation and machine control.

Key Features & Diagnostics

• Dual-protocol port: Software-selectable RS232 or RS485 on one channel.
• Wide baud rate: 4800 to 115200 bps, covering most industrial devices.
• Fast data polling: Low latency for time-critical applications.
• On-board diagnostics: Status monitoring via CPU diagnostics. Quick fault finding.
• Environment tolerant: Works from -10°C to 60°C. Handles 10-90% humidity.
• Non-isolated design: Cost-effective for same-potential installations.
• Vibration resistant: Secure non-removable terminal block.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Flexem
  • Model: F5-BSC01
    • Type: Serial expansion board
      • Channel: 1
        • Ports: RS485 / RS232 (configurable)
          • Protocol: RS232 or RS485
            • Baud rate: 4800 to 115200 bps
              • Data bits: 7 or 8
              • Stop bits: 1 or 2
              • Parity: None, even, odd
    • Isolation: Non-isolation
      • Ground: Shared with CPU
    • Power supply: 5 VDC -15% / +20%
      • Source: Internally from main unit
      • Max consumption: 3.2 W
    • Wiring: Non-removable terminal block
      • Wire size: 0.2 – 1.5 mm²
      • Stripping length: 7 mm
    • Temperature range:
      • Operating: -10 to 60 °C
      • Storage: -20 to 70 °C
    • Humidity: 10-90% RH (non-condensing)
    • Dimensions: 38 x 40 x 18 mm
      • Weight: approx. 25 g
    • Installation: CPU front expansion board slot

Performance Characteristics

• Measurement range: Full RS232/485 signal levels
  • RS232: ±5V to ±15V
  • RS485: Differential ±1.5V to ±5V
• Frequency response: DC to 115200 Hz (baud rate dependent)
• Sensitivity: Better than ±200mV differential
• Linearity: Within 1% over full voltage range
• Resolution: 1 bit (asynchronous serial)
• Temperature tolerance: Full performance -10 to 60°C
  • Drift: < 0.1% per °C
• Environmental resistance: Humidity, vibration, industrial EMI
• Immunity: ESD, EFT, surge per IEC 61000-4

Installation Guide

• Mounting: Directly into CPU front slot
  • Step 1: Power off PLC system
  • Step 2: Align board with guide rails
  • Step 3: Push firmly until seated
  • Step 4: Secure with screw (if applicable)
• Wiring:
  • RS485: A(+), B(-), GND
  • RS232: TX, RX, GND
  • Cable: Shielded twisted pair recommended
• Configuration: Via PLC programming software

Maintenance & Debugging

• Maintenance: Periodic dust cleaning. No calibration needed.
• Diagnostics: Software monitoring
  • Error counters: Framing, parity, overrun
  • LED indicators: TX/RX activity (on CPU)
• Troubleshooting: Check wiring, baud rate, and ground loops

Compatibility & Certification

• Compatible with: Flexem F5 series CPUs
  • Models: F5-CPUxx all variants with expansion slot
• Certifications:
  • CE: EN 61000-6-2, EN 61000-6-4
  • RoHS: Directive 2011/65/EU
  • UL: Pending (industrial control equipment)

Package Contents

• 1x Flexem F5-BSC01 expansion board
• 1x Quick start guide
• 1x Warranty card (12 months)
• 1x Product certificate

Warranty & Shipping

• Warranty: 12 months from invoice date
  • Coverage: Manufacturing defects
  • Exclusions: Misuse, unauthorized modification
• Shipping partners: FedEx, UPS, DHL
  • Tracking: Provided within 24h
  • Transit time: 2-5 business days

Application Examples

• Industrial: Connect VFDs via Modbus RTU
• Building: Interface with HVAC controllers
• Process: Read weight scales, barcode scanners
• Networking: Simple PLC-to-PLC links

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I switch between RS232 and RS485 without reprogramming?No. You must select protocol in software. The board detects at power-up.
• What is maximum cable length for reliable communication?RS485: up to 1200m at 9600 baud. RS232: 15m typical. Use good quality cable.
• Does the board work with 3.3V logic devices?Yes. It tolerates 3.3V levels. However, RS232 levels are ±5V minimum.
• How do I know if the board is faulty?Check CPU diagnostics. No communication, constant errors may indicate hardware issue.
• Can I use both ports simultaneously?No. Only one port active at a time (RS232 or RS485).
• What is the power consumption in sleep mode?Less than 0.5W. Board only draws when serial port active.
• Is there any configuration software needed?Use Flexem Programming Studio. Set channel parameters in hardware configuration.

Selection Guidance

• Choose F5-BSC01 if: You need one flexible serial port, non-isolated is acceptable, budget conscious.
  • Better for: Short distances, same ground potential, clean environment
• Consider F5-BSC02 if: Two ports needed
  • Consider isolated versions if: Long cables, different grounds, noisy environment
• Not sure? Contact our engineers for advice

Contact Information

• Email: sales@powergearx.com
• WhatsApp: +86 18030005825
• Web: www.powergearx.com

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