Project Introduction

The W55RP20 provides the easiest and most powerful solution for customers looking to implement Serial to Ethernet. Additionally, it is the optimal solution for the smallest and most cost-effective implementation.

Nicomtek wanted to develop a stable and compact UART-to-Ethernet converter.
This converter is used in their project, the subway platform step controller.
They aimed for a compact design while maintaining industrial specifications.
That’s why they chose the W55RP20, which combines an MCU and an Ethernet chip.

 

The challenge

Nicomtek faced challenges in developing a Serial to Ethernet converter. While there are various MCUs with Ethernet functionality available on the market, they come with a high cost and often require implementing TCP/IP in firmware, which is both cumbersome and difficult.

Even if the firmware is implemented well, hardware issues can still arise. Although many reference circuits exist, designing Ethernet circuits can be problematic, even when following these designs carefully.

Furthermore, even if all of this is successfully implemented, creating a user-friendly method for configuring the device remains a significant challenge.

 

The solution

Nicomtek was able to develop its product easily using WIZnet’s Custom Service. From firmware for Serial to Ethernet to hardware, everything was provided by WIZnet, making development simple. Additionally, WIZnet's support for various certifications made the certification process even more convenient.

WIZnet already offers open firmware for TTL, RS-232, and RS-422/485 conversion. By utilizing this firmware, Nicomtek was able to configure its product with ease.

Additionally, if the customer requests, the existing firmware can be updated. However, if not, the preconfigured pins can be directly integrated into the hardware, making product development more convenient.

By designing with the predefined pins, the Serial to Ethernet functionality can be utilized easily without requiring any firmware modifications.

Additionally, when developing a Serial to Ethernet product using the W55RP20, a configuration tool is provided. This tool allows for complete device setup. Furthermore, the same control can also be performed via Serial and Web interfaces.

Why W55RP20?

The W55RP20 is a chip that combines Raspberry Pi’s RP2040 and WIZnet’s W5500.
The stability of this combination is already at the highest level, as both chips have been widely and reliably used in embedded systems for years.

Moreover, for projects like Serial to Ethernet, where high MCU performance is not required, choosing the W55RP20 offers the best cost-effectiveness.

As mentioned in "The solution", a specialized support system for Serial to Ethernet development is available. From hardware and firmware to the setting tool and EMC certification support, everything can be provided quickly.

Most importantly, the W55RP20 meets industrial-level standards and is already being used in many industrial applications.

 

The results

Nicomtek has developed this product and is undergoing review by the local government for introduction into the Gyeonggi-do subway system.
The company has already carried out many projects using the W55RP20, which have become successful case studies for Nicomtek.
By utilizing the convenient and reliable W55RP20, this module has been operating smoothly without any issues to date.