The Single-Channel RS485 Expansion HAT for Raspberry Pi is a compact, reliable industrial communication module designed to enable RS485 connectivity for Raspberry Pi-based automation and IoT applications. Featuring a single RS485 interface, direct UART communication, and robust onboard protection, this expansion board ensures stable data transmission in industrial and commercial environments.
Built with high-performance RS485 transceiver technology, the module supports high-speed data transfer while providing TVS surge protection, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, and overcurrent safety. Its compact form factor makes it an ideal solution for smart factories, industrial automation systems, PLC communication, remote monitoring, and Industrial IoT (IIoT) deployments.
Key Features:
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Single RS485 Communication Channel: Supports one RS485 interface for reliable point-to-point or multi-drop network communication with industrial devices, sensors, controllers, and PLCs.
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Direct UART to RS485 Conversion: Connects directly via the Raspberry Pi GPIO UART pins for simple, fast, and low-latency data transmission.
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High-Speed Data Transmission: Supports high baud rates suitable for real-time industrial control, sensor polling, and monitoring applications.
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Automatic Direction Control: Features automatic hardware-level transmit and receive flow control, eliminating the need for manual software-based direction switching.
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Enhanced Circuit Protection:
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Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) for surge protection
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Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on RS485 lines
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Overcurrent protection with auto-recovery fuse
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Seamless Raspberry Pi Integration: Designed with a standard 40-pin GPIO header for full compatibility with Raspberry Pi boards (including Pi 4 and Pi 5).
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Real-Time Status Monitoring: Onboard LED indicators provide instant visual feedback for Power (PWR), Transmit (TX), and Receive (RX) activity.
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Onboard Bus Termination: Built-in 120Ω termination resistor ensures signal integrity and prevents reflections over long-distance RS485 cabling.
Specification:
| Specification | Details |
| Item Type | Expansion HAT |
| Compatibility | Raspberry Pi Series (Pi 3, 4, 5, Zero) |
| Channels | 1 Channel |
| Communication Interface | UART / SPI |
| UART Expansion Chip | SC16IS750 (Single UART) / Direct GPIO UART |
| RS485 Transceiver | SP3485 |
| Input Voltage | 12V – 24V DC |
| Logic / Operating Voltage | 3.3V DC |
| Data Transfer Rate | 300 – 921,600 bps |
| Isolation Type | Non-Isolated (TVS Surge & ESD Protected) |
| Dimensions | 65 mm × 56.5 mm |
| Mounting Hole Diameter | 3 mm |
| Weight | 29 g |
| Shipping Weight | 0.035 kg (35 g) |
| Shipping Dimensions | 7 cm × 6 cm × 3 cm |
Applications:
The 1-Channel RS485 Expansion HAT is widely used in:
- Industrial Automation Systems
- Smart Manufacturing Solutions
- PLC Communication Networks
- Industrial IoT (IIoT) Gateways
- Building Management Systems (BMS)
- Modbus RTU Sensor Networks
- Energy & Utility Monitoring
- Data Acquisition Systems
- Process Automation Projects
Package Contents:
- 1 × 1-Channel RS485 Expansion HAT for Raspberry Pi
- 1 × 2×20 Pin Female Header
- 1 × Mounting Standoff & Screw Kit
Why Choose This 1-Channel RS485 HAT?
This industrial RS485 expansion module combines high-speed communication, compact design, and essential circuit protection into a cost-effective form factor. Whether you are building a lightweight IIoT gateway, edge data logger, or industrial controller, it delivers reliable and direct RS485 connectivity for your Raspberry Pi project.







