MAX485 SENSOR MODULE

The MAX485 is a widely used integrated circuit (IC) that functions as a low-power, slew-rate-limited transceiver specifically designed for RS485 and RS422 communication protocols. While the chip itself is the MAX485 IC, the module includes necessary passive components (resistors, capacitors) and often the essential terminal blocks for easy connection to a half-duplex RS485 bus.

1. TTL to Differential Conversion: The MAX485's primary role is to electrically translate the single-ended (0V/5V) logic signals from a microcontroller's UART (TTL) into robust, differential signals (+/- 2V to 6V) suitable for long-distance RS485 networking.

2. Half-Duplex Operation: It enables two-way communication over a single pair of wires (A and B). This requires external control pins (typically Driver Enable (DE) and Receiver Enable (RE)) to switch the chip between transmitting (driving data onto the bus) and receiving (listening for data).

3. Protection and Range: Its design inherently provides high noise immunity and bus fault protection, allowing for reliable data transmission over distances up to 1200 meters and supporting up to 32 transceivers on a single bus segment.

The module is the standard low-cost solution for implementing the physical layer of the Modbus, DMX, and other multi-drop industrial communication networks in embedded systems.