Specifications:

The Arduino MKR 485 Shield is designed to enable communication with legacy industrial systems using the RS-485 protocol, making it a powerful tool for modern IoT projects. Here are the key specifications and features:

• Transceiver: It’s based on the MAXIM MAX3157, ensuring reliable data transmission with data rates up to 250kbps. This transceiver supports both half-duplex (one direction at a time) and full-duplex (both directions simultaneously) communication modes, which can be easily switched using an onboard switch.
• Power: Includes a TPS54232 buck converter from Texas Instruments, which supports a DC-DC converter with pulse-skipping Eco-Mode feature, allowing the use of batteries as a power supply.
• Interface: It uses a serial interface for communication.
• Operating Voltage: The circuit operates at 3.3 V.
• Vin: The input voltage through the screw connector ranges from 7 V to 24 V, while the input voltage through the header is 5 V.
• Compatibility: Designed to match the MKR size boards, ensuring easy integration.
• Operating Mode: Offers isolated half/full duplex operation that is switchable, providing versatility for various project requirements.

This shield allows Arduino MKR boards to interface with a wide range of industrial devices, offering a convenient solution to retrofit old machinery, heating systems, conveyors, and other industrial systems into the internet of things (IoT) devices.

Learning Resources:

Getting Started with the MKR 485 Shield

MKR 485 Shield Documentation

Applications and Projects:

The Arduino MKR 485 Shield has been utilized in various projects that highlight its versatility and capability in real-world applications. Here are a couple of examples that showcase its potential:

• Arduino IoT Based Energy Meter: This project demonstrates how to monitor energy consumption through the Arduino IoT Cloud using a combination of the Arduino MKR WiFi 1010 and the MKR 485 Shield, connected to a Modbus compatible energy meter. The setup allows for real-time monitoring of current, power, and energy consumption metrics, showcasing the shield’s ability to facilitate communication between the Arduino ecosystem and industrial devices.
• Monitoring Energy Bill via Modbus, MKR WiFi 1010, and RS485: Another innovative application involves connecting a Modbus energy meter to an Arduino MKR WiFi 1010 equipped with an MKR 485 Shield to monitor power consumption. The data collected is then integrated into the Home Assistant platform, enabling users to monitor and manage their energy consumption more effectively. This project illustrates the shield’s utility in home automation and IoT applications, where it serves as a bridge between traditional industrial protocols and modern home management systems.