RS232 and RS485: fight!

[Agrajag 0]

I've read that RS485 protocol will damage RS232 serial port electronics. Would someone please confirm this and expand on the matter if possible.

[Agrajag 0]

Further research encountered an article that states that RS232 is more likely to damage an RS485 port. So, I've dug a little deeper. RS232 devices should be able to handle +/- 25V on any pin as "The standard specifies a maximum open-circuit voltage of 25 volts; signal levels of ±5 V,±10 V,±12 V, and ±15 V are all commonly seen depending on the power supplies available within a device" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RS-232). AND For RS-485, "The output voltage shall not exceed ±6 V under unloaded conditions" (http://focus.ti.com/lit/an/slla070c/slla070c.pdf). SO, I conclude that: RS-232 should be able to handle anything that an RS-485 port can throw at it as long as it is not malfunctioning. It may be possible that RS-485 can be damaged by RS-232 given the right conditions. _________ I'd still like to hear from anyone with a more thorough understanding of the matter.

[panic mode 246]

you got it. if anything get's damaged it will be 485/422 port. RS232 is designed with protection (against short circuit for example) and by standard supports up to +/-25V.