DS203

The DS203 is a Serial Device Server designed for external use. It features a hardware setup that includes one Auto-MDIX 10/100BaseT Ethernet port, one RS232 serial port, and an internal processor that seamlessly "glues" the network and serial sides of the device. Auto-MDIX (Automatic Medium Dependent Interface Crossover) allows the DS203 to automatically detect and work with either straight or crossed Ethernet cables, providing flexibility and ease of connection.

Hardware and Firmware Overview

From a hardware perspective, the DS203 serves as a versatile platform capable of running a variety of network and serial communications-related applications. However, most of the DS203's functionality is defined by its application firmware rather than the hardware itself.

The DS203 can run two distinct types of application firmware, with version-specific restrictions (detailed below):

1. "Serial-to-Ethernet" Firmware
• Current Version: 3rd Generation ("Release3")
• This firmware transforms the DS203 into a ready-to-use serial-to-Ethernet converter, allowing connection of almost any serial device to an Ethernet (TCP/IP) network.
• The functionality of this firmware is fixed, and its behavior can be adjusted by specifying programmable parameters (settings).

1. TiOS (Tibbo Operating System) Firmware
• Functionality: Turns the DS203 into a Tibbo BASIC-programmable controller.
• When running TiOS, the DS203 has no predefined functionality — the behavior of the device is entirely determined by the BASIC application you create.
• Further Resources: TiOS and BASIC programming details can be found in our Development (TiOS) guide.

Firmware and Upgrades

The application firmware of the DS203 can be upgraded via either the serial or Ethernet port. The process is as follows:

• Serial Upgrades: Facilitated by a fixed "service" firmware called the Monitor, which is embedded in the DS203.
• Network Upgrades: Supported by a self-upgrade algorithm embedded in the application firmware itself.

By default, the DS203 comes pre-loaded with "serial device server" firmware. If you prefer to receive the module with TiOS firmware, please specify the option "P" when placing your order. Alternatively, you can load the TiOS firmware yourself using the firmware versions available on our website.

Firmware Version Restrictions

The DS203 uses the newer DM9000B Ethernet controller, which requires firmware adjustments compared to earlier models that used the older DM9000A IC. These changes were incorporated in the following firmware versions:

• Serial-to-Ethernet Firmware: Version 3.70 and higher.
• TiOS Firmware: Version 2.05.10 and higher.

Earlier versions of firmware will not function with the DM9000B module. If you require the older firmware, please opt for the DS203A device instead.