I’m setting up a network where I need to use serial over Ethernet. I’ve been trying to find the best software or tools for this on a Linux system but I’m overwhelmed with the options available. Can anyone recommend robust and reliable options for serial over Ethernet on Linux? Any advice or experiences would be appreciated.
When dealing with Linux serial over Ethernet, I know it can be like trying to herd cats, so here’s what might help you.
First, Serial to Ethernet Connector is a solid option. Based on my experience, this software is super reliable and allows you to easily connect serial ports over a network, turning your typical serial communication into network traffic. Works pretty seamlessly on Linux systems.
Another tool you might want to check out is socat. It’s a Swiss Army knife for network and communication tasks, supporting many protocols and data transfer options. You can bridge serial ports to network sockets, giving you flexibility for different setups.
For a more robust and enterprise-grade solution, Tibbo» and their AggreGate IoT Platform are potent contenders. They provide a polished interface and extensive support that can simplify setting up your networked serial communications.
RemSerial is another lightweight option worth mentioning. It’s not as feature-rich, but it can get the job done if you need a straightforward solution for serial over TCP.
Just a friendly reminder, going with hardware solutions like PortServer from Digi can sometimes save you a lot of headaches too if software options start to fizzle out on you.
For those who want to dive deeper into this aspect, you should definitely go through this comprehensive guide on Linux serial over Ethernet. It covers enabling remote console access and breaks down the process in easy steps.
Hope this helps!
Hey there, tackling serial over Ethernet (SoE) can be a bit of a jungle, but let’s add a couple more paths to your map alongside the suggestions from sonhadordobosque.
One tool you didn’t mention yet is ser2net. This one’s pretty rock-solid for turning a serial port into a TCP/IP accessible device. It’s open-source and fairly straightforward, with its configuration managed via a text file. It’s not flashy but gets the job done efficiently.
Another gem is tcpser. While a bit more vintage, it still holds up for creating virtual modems that can connect over TCP, making it a neat solution for retro computing enthusiasts who want to link older gear to modern networks.
Have you thought about using Minicom? Although primarily a terminal emulator, it has some flexibility in dealing with serial port operations and can sometimes fill the gap in a pinch.
On the hardware side, I’d second the recommendation for Digi’s PortServer or even Moxa’s NPort series. They’re essentially plug-and-play, saving you the hassle of complex setups.
Lastly, let’s not forget VirtualHere. While its primary use is USB over IP, it works decently for serial-over-Ethernet when paired with USB-to-serial adapters.
Obvs, the best fit depends on your specific requirements and complexity tolerance. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of good documentation and community support, which can make a huge diff in the long run.
For more details on setting up and the methods, check out this ‘Serial to Ethernet Connector’. It’s comprehensive and pretty easy to follow.
Keep tweaking till you find the right combo that sticks!
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Sure, Linux serial over Ethernet can indeed be somewhat perplexing, but here’s a no-nonsense rundown to help clear it up.
Serial to Ethernet Connector
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Robust performance for various setups
- Efficient in turning serial communication to network traffic
Cons:
- Commercial software, so it comes with a price tag
- Limited customization compared to some open-source tools
Comparing Contenders
Socat:
- Pros: Highly flexible, supports a range of protocols
- Cons: Complex configuration, steep learning curve
Ser2net:
- Pros: Open-source, simple configuration
- Cons: Lacks GUI, more manual setup
Tibbo/AggreGate:
- Pros: Enterprise-grade, top-notch support
- Cons: Can be overkill for small setups
RemSerial:
- Pros: Lightweight, gets the job done
- Cons: Limited features, basic functionality
Tcpser:
- Pros: Great for vintage setups
- Cons: Outdated, not as versatile for modern applications
Additional Recommendations
Minicom:
Though primarily a terminal emulator, Minicom can sometimes do the job if you need quick-and-dirty serial over Ethernet.
VirtualHere:
Using USB-to-serial adapters, it brings the power of USB over IP to your setup, benefiting from both flexibility and ease.
Hardware Solutions
- Digi PortServer: Plug-and-play, relieves software headaches
- Moxa’s NPort series: Reliable and durable, good for industrial environments
The sweet spot often lies in your specific requirements: Easy setup vs. Complex versatility, Cost-free open-source vs. Commercial polish. Choose your pick based on these insights, and happy configuring!