What is the difference between RS485 and RS232?

One of the main differences between RS485 and RS232 is the number of devices they can communicate with. RS232 is designed for point-to-point communication and can only communicate with one device at a time. RS485, on the other hand, is designed for multi-point communication and can communicate with up to 32 devices simultaneously.

Another key difference is the way in which they transmit data. RS232 uses a single-ended transmission method, which means that it transmits data on a single data line. This makes it more susceptible to signal interference and can cause data errors. RS485 uses a differential transmission method, which sends the same data on two lines but with opposite voltages. This makes it more resistant to interference and reduces the likelihood of errors.

Usually industrial pc RS485 is also designed for longer communication distances than RS232. RS232 is typically limited to communication distances of no more than 50 feet, while RS485 can communicate over distances of up to 4000 feet.

In conclusion, both RS485 and RS232 have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and their choice largely depends on the specific application's requirements. However, RS485 is often a preferred choice due to its ability to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, better signal resistance, and long-distance communication capabilities.