Overview
The Black Box SW540A Code-Operated Matrix Switch (COMS) is a versatile serial switching solution designed for environments requiring flexible any-to-any connectivity between multiple serial devices. This unit responds to ASCII-character-based commands to switch data between five ports without requiring absolute device compatibility. The SW540A is a proven legacy switching platform commonly found in industrial automation, telecommunications, and laboratory test applications.
Key Features
- Five DB25 female serial ports with DCE/DTE strap-selectable configuration
- Any-to-any matrix switching controlled via ASCII character commands over a control port
- Expandable to nine ports using the optional SW541-C 4-port expansion board
- Independent port configuration: each port can be set for independent baud rate (110 bps to 19.2 kbps), data format, flow control, and break detection
- Cascadable for applications requiring more than nine ports
- Hardware or software flow control support
Technical Specifications
- Input Voltage: 115 VAC, 60 Hz, 5 watts (230-VAC version SW540AE-R3 available on request)
- Serial Ports: (5) DB25 F, DCE/DTE strap-selectable
- Baud Rate Range: 110 bps to 19.2 kbps
- Dimensions: 2.3"H x 11.2"W x 11.1"D (5.8 x 28.4 x 28.2 cm)
- Weight: 7.7 lb (3.6 kg)
- Flow Control: Each port independently configured for data rate, data format, flow control and break detection
- Interface Type: RS-232 serial (DB25)
- Control Method: ASCII character-based command protocol
Typical Applications
- Legacy serial device integration in modern automation systems
- Laboratory and test equipment switching
- Industrial control system serial port sharing
- Telecommunications equipment management
- Data center serial console switching
- Multi-device serial communication environments where device-to-device connection flexibility is required
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Any RS-232 serial device with DB25 or DB9 connectors (with appropriate adapter)
- Industrial PLCs and controllers with serial communication ports
- Laboratory instrumentation and test equipment
- Legacy computer systems and terminals
- Systems requiring ASCII-based command protocol control
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Verify compatibility with your system integrator or controls engineer before ordering. The SW540A-R3 is the current revision level.
Works With
- RS-232 serial communication protocol
- ASCII character-based command interface
- Hardware flow control (RTS/CTS)
- Software flow control (X-ON/X-OFF)
- Optional SW541-C 4-Port Expansion Board for a total of nine ports
- Cascadable units for extended port capacity
