How to Use UART to ETH: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Design with UART to ETH in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

The UART to ETH module, manufactured by Waveshare (Part ID: B), is a versatile converter that bridges UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter) communication with Ethernet networks. This component enables seamless transmission of serial data over Ethernet, making it ideal for applications requiring remote data access, industrial automation, IoT devices, and networked embedded systems.

By converting UART signals to Ethernet packets and vice versa, this module allows devices with serial interfaces to communicate over long distances via Ethernet infrastructure, providing flexibility and scalability in system design.

Explore Projects Built with UART to ETH

Arduino UNO and Relay-Controlled RS485 Communication System

This circuit features an Arduino UNO microcontroller interfaced with a 4-channel relay module and a UART TTL to RS485 converter. The Arduino controls the relays via digital pins and communicates with the RS485 converter for serial communication, enabling control of external devices and communication over long distances.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

ESP32-CAM Module with USB to TTL Communication

This circuit connects an ESP32-CAM module to a USB to TTL module for serial communication and power supply. The ESP32-CAM's transmit (VOT) and receive (VOR) pins are connected to the USB to TTL's RXD and TXD pins respectively, enabling serial data exchange between the ESP32-CAM and a connected computer. Power (3V3 and 5V) and ground (GND) connections are also established between the two modules, ensuring the ESP32-CAM is powered and can communicate over USB.

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Wi-Fi Controlled Device Interface with Wemos D1 Mini and Logic Level Converter

This circuit features a Wemos D1 Mini microcontroller interfaced with a Bi-Directional Logic Level Converter to facilitate communication with a 5V RX/TX module. The level converter ensures proper voltage translation between the 3.3V logic of the Wemos D1 Mini and the 5V logic of the RX/TX module.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

ESP32 and W5500 Ethernet Module Controlled 8-Channel Relay

This circuit enables Ethernet connectivity and device control through an ESP32 microcontroller. It uses the W5500 Ethernet module for network communication and controls an 8-channel relay module for switching external devices or loads.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications

Industrial automation and control systems
IoT (Internet of Things) devices
Remote monitoring and data logging
Serial device networking
Home automation systems

Technical Specifications

Key Technical Details

Parameter	Value
Manufacturer	Waveshare
Part ID	B
Communication Protocols	UART, Ethernet
UART Baud Rate	300 bps to 921.6 kbps
Ethernet Speed	10/100 Mbps
Operating Voltage	3.3V to 5V
Power Consumption	< 1W
Operating Temperature	-40°C to 85°C
Dimensions	50mm x 30mm x 15mm

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The UART to ETH module has a simple pinout for easy integration into circuits. Below is the pin configuration:

Pin Number	Pin Name	Description
1	VCC	Power input (3.3V to 5V)
2	GND	Ground
3	TXD	UART Transmit Data (output from module)
4	RXD	UART Receive Data (input to module)
5	RESET	Reset pin (active low)
6	ETH_TX+	Ethernet transmit positive signal
7	ETH_TX-	Ethernet transmit negative signal
8	ETH_RX+	Ethernet receive positive signal
9	ETH_RX-	Ethernet receive negative signal

Usage Instructions

How to Use the Component in a Circuit

Power the Module: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
Connect UART Interface:
- Connect the TXD pin of the module to the RX pin of your microcontroller or UART device.
- Connect the RXD pin of the module to the TX pin of your microcontroller or UART device.
Connect Ethernet Interface:
- Use an Ethernet cable to connect the module to a network switch, router, or another Ethernet-enabled device.
Configure the Module:
- Use the provided configuration software or AT commands to set the UART baud rate, IP address, and other network parameters.
Test Communication:
- Send data from the UART device to the module and verify that it is transmitted over the Ethernet network.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

Ensure that the UART baud rate of the module matches the baud rate of the connected device.
Use proper grounding to avoid noise interference in UART communication.
If using the module in a noisy environment, consider adding decoupling capacitors near the power pins.
Configure the Ethernet settings (e.g., static IP or DHCP) according to your network requirements.
Avoid exceeding the module's operating voltage and temperature limits to ensure reliable operation.

Example: Connecting to an Arduino UNO

Below is an example of how to connect the UART to ETH module to an Arduino UNO and send data over Ethernet.

Circuit Connections

UART to ETH Pin	Arduino UNO Pin
VCC	5V
GND	GND
TXD	RX (Pin 0)
RXD	TX (Pin 1)

Arduino Code Example

// Example code to send data from Arduino to UART to ETH module
// Ensure the baud rate matches the module's configuration

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize UART communication at 9600 baud
  delay(1000);        // Wait for the module to initialize

  Serial.println("Hello, Ethernet!"); // Send data to the UART to ETH module
}

void loop() {
  // Continuously send data every 2 seconds
  Serial.println("Sending data over Ethernet...");
  delay(2000);
}

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

No Data Transmission Over Ethernet
- Cause: Incorrect UART baud rate or Ethernet configuration.
- Solution: Verify and match the UART baud rate of the module and the connected device. Check the Ethernet settings (e.g., IP address, subnet mask).
Module Not Powering On
- Cause: Insufficient power supply or incorrect voltage.
- Solution: Ensure the VCC pin is connected to a stable 3.3V or 5V power source.
Data Corruption or Noise
- Cause: Poor grounding or long UART cables.
- Solution: Use shorter cables and ensure proper grounding. Add decoupling capacitors if necessary.
Ethernet Connection Drops Frequently
- Cause: Network instability or incorrect Ethernet wiring.
- Solution: Check the Ethernet cable and ensure proper wiring of ETH_TX+, ETH_TX-, ETH_RX+, and ETH_RX-.

FAQs

Q: Can the module work with 3.3V logic devices?
- A: Yes, the module supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels.
Q: How do I reset the module?
- A: Pull the RESET pin low for a few milliseconds and then release it.
Q: Can I use this module with a Raspberry Pi?
- A: Yes, connect the UART pins of the module to the GPIO UART pins of the Raspberry Pi and configure the serial port accordingly.
Q: Does the module support DHCP?
- A: Yes, the module can be configured to use DHCP or a static IP address.

This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to using the Waveshare UART to ETH module (Part ID: B). For further assistance, refer to the manufacturer's datasheet or support resources.