MAX3485 TTL to RS485 Converter Module – MCU Multi-Machine

MAX3485 TTL to RS485 Converter Module – Industrial-Grade Multi-Machine Communication

Take your microcontroller projects to the next level with the MAX3485 TTL to RS485 Converter Module by ALLOYSEED. Engineered for engineers, makers, and industrial developers alike, this compact module delivers ultra-long-distance serial communication with rock-solid reliability. Whether you're building a multi-node sensor network, an industrial control system, or a Raspberry Pi/Arduino project, this module bridges the gap between TTL logic levels and RS485 differential signaling seamlessly.

Made in Mainland China.

Key Features

• Ultra-Long Distance Transmission: Powered by a genuine MAX3485 chip, this module supports signal transmission over thousands of meters — ideal for large-scale deployments and industrial environments.
• Dual Voltage Compatibility: Supports both 3.3V and 5V signal control, making it compatible with a wide range of microcontrollers including Arduino, STM32, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and more.
• ±15kV ESD Protection: Built-in electrostatic discharge protection keeps your circuit safe from unexpected voltage spikes.
• 500kbps Error-Free Data Rate: The slew-rate-limited driver minimizes EMI and signal reflections from improperly terminated cables, ensuring reliable data transmission up to 500kbps.
• Multi-Device Bus Support: With 1/4 unit load receiver input impedance, the bus supports 128+ devices simultaneously — perfect for multi-machine communication setups.
• Industrial Operating Temperature: Rated from -40°C to +85°C, this module thrives in harsh industrial environments.
• Hot-Swappable Design: Unlike standard RS485 chips, the MAX3485 module can be hot-swapped without signal glitches or bus lockup.
• Advanced Power Filtering: Uses tantalum electrolytic capacitors with dual high/low frequency filtering for a clean, stable power supply.
• Overvoltage Protection: Dual transient suppression diodes provide outstanding over-voltage protection for long-term reliability.
• Signal Integrity: 10Ω current protection resistor, large copper ground plane, and single-line RS485/TTL signal routing all work together to maximize signal quality.
• Developer-Friendly Design: 2.54mm perforated soldering holes, M3 mounting screw holes, 120Ω terminal resistor (enable by shorting R16), angled header pins for easy testing, and built-in power + RXD/TXD indicator LEDs.

Specifications

• Chip: MAX3485
• Interface: TTL ↔ RS485
• Supported Voltages: 3.3V / 5V
• Max Data Rate: 500 kbps
• ESD Protection: ±15kV
• Bus Devices Supported: 128+
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
• Terminal Resistor: 120Ω (jumper-selectable)
• Dimensions: 53.00 × 22.00 × 16.00 mm (2.09 × 0.87 × 0.63 in)
• Condition: New

What's in the Box

• 1 × MAX3485 TTL to RS485 Converter Module

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For more information on RS485 communication standards and industrial serial interfaces, refer to the NIST Communications Technology Laboratory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the MAX3485 TTL to RS485 converter module used for?

A: The MAX3485 TTL to RS485 converter module is used to convert TTL-level serial signals (from microcontrollers like Arduino, STM32, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi) into RS485 differential signals. This enables reliable long-distance, multi-node serial communication — commonly used in industrial automation, sensor networks, and MCU development projects.

Q: Does this module work with both 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers?

A: Yes! The MAX3485 module supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, making it broadly compatible with virtually all popular microcontrollers and development boards without the need for additional level-shifting components.

Q: How many devices can be connected to the RS485 bus using this module?

A: Thanks to its 1/4 unit load receiver input impedance, this MAX3485 RS485 module supports more than 128 devices on a single bus simultaneously, making it well-suited for large multi-machine communication networks.

Q: How do I enable the 120Ω terminal resistor on this RS485 module?

A: Simply short the R16 jumper on the board to enable the built-in 120Ω terminal resistor. This is recommended when the module is placed at either end of a long RS485 bus line to reduce signal reflections and improve transmission quality.