How to read RS485 data on a PC?

1, Hardware preparation
RS485 device: First, make sure you have a device that supports RS485 communication, such as a sensor, instrument, or controller.
USB to RS485 converter: In order to read RS485 data on a PC, you need a USB to RS485 converter. This converter can convert the USB interface of a PC to an RS485 interface for communication with RS485 devices.
Connecting cable: Prepare a connecting cable to connect the USB to RS485 converter to the RS485 device. Ensure the correct wiring of the cable, usually A line corresponds to A+, and B line corresponds to B -.
Power supply: If the RS485 device requires external power supply, ensure that the power supply is properly connected and turned on.
2, Software installation and configuration
Install driver: Insert the USB to RS485 converter into the USB interface of the PC, and the system will automatically detect the new device and attempt to install the driver. If the driver is not automatically installed, you need to download and manually install it from the manufacturer's website of the converter.
Install serial communication software: In order to read RS485 data on a PC, you need a serial communication software such as PuTTY, RealTerm, SecureCRT, etc. These software allow you to send and receive data through a serial port. You can also choose to use programming languages (such as Python, C #, etc.) and corresponding serial communication libraries to write custom data reading programs.
Configure serial port parameters: In serial communication software, you need to configure serial port parameters to ensure consistency with the communication parameters of RS485 devices. These parameters include baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity bits, etc. Usually, these parameters can be found in the documentation of RS485 devices.
3, Data reading and parsing
Open serial port: In the serial communication software, select the correct serial port number (i.e. the COM port occupied by the USB to RS485 converter) and open the serial port.
Sending data (optional): If the RS485 device requires specific commands to trigger data transmission, you can send these commands in the serial communication software.
Receiving data: In the receiving window of the serial communication software, you should be able to see the data transmitted from the RS485 device. These data may be raw binary data or encoded text data.
Data parsing: The received data needs to be parsed to extract useful information. The parsing method depends on the communication protocol and data format of the RS485 device. You may need to write parsing code based on the device's documentation or use existing parsing libraries.
Data recording and processing: The parsed data can be recorded in files, databases, or memory for subsequent processing and analysis. You can also use programming languages or scripting languages to write data processing programs to achieve real-time processing or visualization of data.
4, Precautions and troubleshooting
Ensure proper connection: When connecting cables and power sources, make sure they are connected correctly to avoid misconnection or reverse connection.
Check serial port parameters: Ensure that the parameter configuration of the serial communication software is consistent with the parameters of the RS485 device.
Check the status of the converter: If the converter indicator light does not light up or flashes abnormally, it may be a converter failure or power supply issue.
Check device status: Ensure that the RS485 device is correctly turned on and in a state where it can send data.
Use serial debugging assistant: If data cannot be read, you can use serial debugging assistant to send and receive test data to check if communication is normal.
Viewing logs and error messages: If the software or device provides log and error message functionality, you can view these logs and error messages to locate the problem.