FAQs
Common questions about the RS-485 Node.
What devices can the RS-485 Node connect to?
Any RS485 / Modbus RTU device can be connected — this covers most industrial energy meters, water and gas meters, flow and pressure transmitters, level sensors, temperature sensors, and PLCs or industrial controllers that expose a standard Modbus RTU interface.
How many devices can one node support?
A single RS-485 Node can be configured to poll and cycle through up to 20 Modbus slave devices, so multiple instruments sharing the same RS485 bus can be consolidated behind one wireless node.
Does the node need a mobile app to configure?
No. All configuration — which Modbus slaves to poll, how their registers map to named parameters, and how often to poll each one — is pushed to the node remotely over MQTT from the Vandyam Cloud Dashboard, once the node has joined a VIoT Gateway. No app, and no return site visit, is needed to change settings.
Is the node battery powered?
No. The current RS-485 Node is externally powered only, running from a 12V DC supply with protection up to 35V DC. Sites without existing 12V power will need to provide their own DC source (such as a solar-and-battery setup).
What is the communication range?
Per Vandyam's internal specification sheet, up to 10km under clear line-of-sight conditions. Real-world range in built-up or obstructed environments will typically be considerably shorter, and depends on gateway placement, antenna height, and terrain.
Is the enclosure weatherproof, and what's the operating temperature range?
The confirmed operating range is 0°C to 50°C, with Over Voltage Protection (up to 25 VDC) and TVS/ESD protection against transients and static discharge. No IP rating is currently specified for this device.