4/3/24, 3:01 PM Protecting RS-232 Serial Port from Overvoltage - NI

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HOMESUPPORTPROTECTING RS-232 SERIAL PORT FROM OVERVOLTAGE

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Protecting RS-232 Serial Port from O

Updated Jan 19, 2023

Reported In
Other
External Circuitry

Issue Details
How can I protect my RS-232 serial port from overvoltage damage?

Solution
You can build an overvoltage protection circuit using metal oxide varistors (voltage dependent resisto
Zener diodes.

Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) or Voltage Dependent Resistors (VDRs):

Varistors offer a large voltage surge-handling capability, but a delayed response time. In the following
when the surge exceeds the MOV's rated voltage.

Zener Diodes:
Zener Diodes have a better response time over MOVs, but can only handle a small amount of current
surge current from damaging the diode.

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4/3/24, 3:01 PM Protecting RS-232 Serial Port from Overvoltage - NI
The RS-232 standard states that the maximum open-circuit voltage of a signal cannot exceed +/- 25 V
voltage surges that exceed this specification.

The circuits detailed above are designed to clamp harmful voltage surges and protect your equipmen
accuracy they are provided As Is. They have not been tested or validated as a product, for use in a de
environments. You assume all risks for use of these circuits

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