StarTech ICUSB234854I – 4-Port Industrial USB to Serial Hub with 15kV ESD Protection

Overview :

The StarTech ICUSB234854I is a rugged, industrial-grade USB-to-serial converter designed for mission-critical automation and control applications. It is utilized by systems integrators and industrial engineers to interface modern computing hardware with legacy serial equipment, including PLC controllers, CNC machinery, and high-precision sensors.

Technically, the hub features a high-performance FTDI FT4232H chipset and supports four individually configurable RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 (2-wire/4-wire) ports. It provides 15kV Level 4 Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection to safeguard connected hardware from electrical surges and voltage spikes common in factory environments. The unit supports high-speed baud rates up to 921.6Kbps and features COM port retention to maintain port assignments across reboots.

Deployment is flexible, with an IP30-rated steel enclosure that supports both DIN-rail and wall-mount installations. For secure connectivity, it includes screw-locking ports on both the serial and USB interfaces, preventing accidental cable disconnection due to vibration. This hub is ideal for edge computing and industrial gateways but should not be used in environments exceeding its 55°C operating temperature limit.

Key Features :

• Quad-protocol ports support RS232, RS422, and RS485 (2/4-wire) modes.

• 15kV ESD surge protection prevents downtime from electrical interference.

• Industrial IP30-rated metal housing provides durability in harsh areas.

• Screw-locking USB and DB9 ports ensure reliable, vibration-proof links.

• COM port retention automatically reassigns port values after disconnection.