Introduction

In industrial IoT deployments, connecting traditional serial devices (RS485/RS232/TTL) to Ethernet is an extremely common requirement. Ebyte's NE2-S1 SMD module has become a classic in the industry thanks to its compact size and powerful protocol conversion capabilities. However, as the demand for wireless deployment grows, engineers face a new pain point: many field sites simply have no wired network interface, or the cabling cost is prohibitively high.

For example, in an already-finished factory workshop, a moving AGV, or a temporary monitoring station, running Ethernet cables is nearly impossible. The traditional solution — using an external WiFi serial server — increases system complexity and consumes valuable PCB space.

The NE2-S1W module from EBYTE was born to solve this core pain point. Built upon the classic NE2-S1 Ethernet serial server module, it integrates WiFi functionality directly, enabling "wired + wireless" dual-network access and making serial device networking far more flexible. Meanwhile, the companion NE2-S1W-TB development test kit provides an ideal platform for rapid evaluation and prototyping.

Product Overview

1. NE2-S1W: Integrated WiFi Serial Server Module

The NE2-S1W is an SMD-type serial server module developed by Chengdu Ebyte Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. It shares the same appearance and dimensions as the classic NE2-S1 but integrates a WiFi module internally, enabling Ethernet + WiFi dual-network access.

2. NE2-S1W-TB: Companion Development Test Kit

The NE2-S1W-TB is a test board (evaluation kit) designed for the NE2-S1W module.

Features and Model Comparison

1. NE2-S1W Module Features

The NE2-S1W inherits all the powerful features of the NE2-S1 and adds WiFi capability:

• Dual Network Access: Supports both 10/100M Ethernet (RJ45, auto MDI/MDIX) and 2.4GHz WiFi

• Multi-Protocol Support: 2 Socket channels, each supporting TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP Server, UDP Client, HTTPC, MQTTC; Server mode supports up to 5 client connections per socket (Ethernet and WiFi share the channel)

• Multiple Configuration Methods: PC configuration tool, web page, and AT commands

• Advanced Network Functions: DHCP, DNS (custom DNS server supported)

• Rich Modbus Gateway Modes: Simple protocol conversion, multi-host mode, storage-type gateway, configurable gateway, active upload mode

• Quick Cloud Platform Access: Alibaba Cloud, Baidu Cloud, OneNET, Huawei Cloud, standard MQTT 3.1.1

• Complete Advanced Features: Auto-reconnect, timeout reboot, Keepalive mechanism, short connection mode (customizable interval), heartbeat packet and registration packet in all modes, external/internal network access, one-key factory reset, online firmware upgrade

• Simple User Interface: Standard UART design, hardware flow control supports full-duplex communication

2. Core Module vs. Test Kit Comparison

3. NE2-S1W (WiFi) vs. NE2-S1 (Wired) Comparison

One-sentence summary: The NE2-S1W is the "wireless upgrade" of the NE2-S1 — maintaining the same size, interface, and software ecosystem while adding flexible and reliable WiFi connectivity.

Technical Specifications

Application Scenarios and User Needs

The NE2-S1W module and NE2-S1W-TB test kit precisely address the following user needs:

Scenario ①: Wireless Retrofit of Factory/Workshop Equipment

• User Need: Old factories have no network cabling, or rewiring is expensive and time-consuming. Engineers need a way to connect PLCs, instruments, and other serial devices to the factory management network without disrupting the existing environment.

• Solution: Embed the NE2-S1W module into existing equipment or use it externally to connect via WiFi to the factory's wireless LAN. No facility modifications required.

• Value: Zero cabling, rapid deployment, low-cost retrofit.

Scenario ②: Networking Mobile/Relocatable Equipment

• User Need: AGVs, mobile robots, temporary monitoring stations, etc., frequently change location — wired networks are completely unsuitable.

• Solution: Integrate the NE2-S1W module during design. When the device moves to a new location, it automatically connects via WiFi without rewiring.

• Value: Flexible mobility, reliable connectivity, set-and-forget.

Scenario ③: Systems Requiring Wired/WiFi Redundancy

• User Need: Critical control links (e.g., core production line PLCs) cannot tolerate network downtime. A single wired or wireless network presents a single point of failure.

• Solution: Connect the NE2-S1W module to both wired Ethernet and WiFi simultaneously. If the wired network fails unexpectedly, the device seamlessly switches to WiFi, ensuring no data loss.

• Value: Dual-link redundancy, extremely high reliability.

Scenario ④: Prototype Verification During Product Development

• User Need: Hardware engineers need to quickly verify the driver, functionality, and performance of the NE2-S1W module during new product design, without investing time in designing a test baseboard upfront.

• Solution: Purchase the NE2-S1W-TB test kit directly. Connect via USB to a PC and start configuration and communication testing immediately — no external circuitry needed.

• Value: Significantly shortens development cycles, reduces trial-and-error costs.

EBYTE Core Advantages

• Original Upgrade, Seamless Replacement: The NE2-S1W's package dimensions, pin definitions, and software functions are fully compatible with the classic NE2-S1. Customers already using the NE2-S1 can directly replace it with the NE2-S1W without modifying the PCB layout, instantly adding WiFi capability.

• Dual-Network Coexistence, Intelligent Switching: The module supports both wired (RJ45) and wireless (WiFi) connections simultaneously, with user-configurable primary/backup switching strategies for network redundancy — greatly improving system reliability.

• Complete Development Ecosystem: Ebyte provides both the NE2-S1W core module and the NE2-S1W-TB test kit. Customers can start evaluation with the TB, then move to mass production with the core module, shortening the entire product development cycle.

• Rich Supporting Documentation: Detailed product specifications, user manuals (shared across the NE2 series), hardware design guides, AT command sets, and other technical documentation fully support customer secondary development.

• Mature Software Platform: Shares the same software configuration tool, AT commands, and web management interface as the NE2 series — development experience is reusable, reducing product iteration costs.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between NE2-S1W and NE2-S1? How should I choose?

A: The core difference is in network access method:

• NE2-S1 (Traditional): Wired only (RJ45 Ethernet). Suitable for fixed equipment in environments where network cabling is already in place and the environment is stable.

• NE2-S1W (WiFi): Supports both wired + wireless (WiFi). Suitable for mobile devices, sites where cabling is difficult, systems requiring network redundancy, or customers planning to launch wireless-upgraded products.

Selection Advice: If your new product may have wireless deployment requirements in the future, or if you want to flexibly adapt to different field network environments, choose the NE2-S1W directly — it is backward compatible with all NE2-S1 functions.

Q2: How do I use the NE2-S1W-TB test kit out of the box?

A: Simply follow these steps:

1. Connect the test board to your computer using a USB Type-C cable. The board will power on automatically.

2. A virtual serial port will appear on your computer. If not, you may need to install the CH340 driver.

3. Use Ebyte's PC configuration tool (downloadable from the official website) to view and modify all parameters including IP address, working mode, and WiFi settings via this virtual serial port.

4. Alternatively, use a common serial terminal tool (e.g., XCOM, SSCOM) to send AT commands for configuration.

5. Connect the Ethernet cable and antenna, then begin communication testing.

Q3: What is the maximum number of client connections supported in TCP Server mode?

A: The NE2-S1W supports up to 5 client connections per Socket in TCP Server mode. Since the module has 2 Socket channels, if both are set to server mode, the total maximum is 10 client connections (5 × 2).

Q4: How do I configure the WiFi parameters?

A: You can configure WiFi through any of the following methods:

• PC Configuration Tool: Find the WiFi configuration section under "Basic Parameters" or "Network Parameters," and enter your WiFi network's SSID, password, and encryption type.

• Web Page: Connect the module to the network, access its IP address via a browser, and configure WiFi in the web management interface.

• AT Commands: Send specific AT commands via the serial port, such as AT+SSID=<your WiFi name> and AT+PASSWORD=<your WiFi password>.

Q5: How do I quickly connect to Alibaba Cloud or Baidu Cloud?

A: The key is using MQTT Client mode:

1. Connect the module to the internet via Ethernet or WiFi (using the NE2-S1W-TB test kit or your product design).

2. In the configuration tool or web page, set the working mode to MQTT Client.

3. Configure the target IP/domain name (cloud platform access address), target port (typically 1883), device name, username, password, and subscribe/publish topics according to your cloud platform documentation.

4. The module will automatically complete the connection to the cloud platform, enabling bidirectional data transparent transmission between serial devices and the cloud.

Q6: What is the Modbus gateway function used for?

A: The Modbus gateway function is one of the core advantages of the NE2 series. Its primary role is to bridge Modbus TCP networks (Ethernet/WiFi side) and Modbus RTU networks (serial side). Specific modes include:

Q7: Does the NE2-S1W support overseas use (international markets)?

A: Yes, with some considerations:

• Hardware (processor, interfaces, power supply): Fully compatible internationally — the ARM Cortex-A55 processor, standard Ethernet, UART, and GPIO interfaces are universal.

• WiFi (2.4GHz): The 2.4GHz band is license-free and globally available, so WiFi functionality works worldwide.

• Certifications: Ebyte products typically carry CE, FCC, RoHS, and other international certifications. Please confirm with your sales representative which certifications apply to the specific batch.

• Cloud Platforms: The module supports standard MQTT 3.1.1, allowing connection to any global MQTT broker (AWS IoT, Azure IoT, etc.) in addition to Chinese cloud platforms.

• Logistics: Ebyte supports international shipping via DHL/UPS/FedEx/TNT/EMS, typically delivering to most countries within 3–7 working days.

Q8: What are the three network access modes, and how do they work?

A: The NE2-S1W supports three network access modes:

Q9: What are the power supply requirements?

A: The module supports two power supply options (choose only one):

Important: Only one power supply method can be used at a time. Do not power VCC1 and VCC2 simultaneously.

Q10: What is the operating temperature range?

A: The NE2-S1W module is designed to industrial-grade standards:

• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

• Storage Temperature: -40°C to +125°C

• Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing)

Q11: How do I restore factory default settings?

A: Press and hold the Reload/Reset button (or pull the corresponding pin low) for 5–10 seconds to restore factory defaults. A short press of 200–800ms will restart the device.

Q12: Can the module support overseas cloud platforms like AWS IoT or Azure IoT?

A: Yes. The NE2-S1W supports the standard MQTT 3.1.1 protocol, which is universally compatible. You can configure the module to connect to any MQTT broker worldwide, including AWS IoT Core, Microsoft Azure IoT Hub, and standard private MQTT servers. Simply configure the server address, port, and authentication parameters in the module's settings.

In summary, the NE2-S1W represents Ebyte's important wireless upgrade to its classic serial server product line. It precisely addresses the core demand that "network connections must be more flexible" by integrating WiFi functionality into a module identical in size to the NE2-S1, delivering a "one-wire (Ethernet) + one-wireless (WiFi)" dual-access solution. Whether solving the problem of unwired field sites, bringing connectivity to mobile devices, or building highly reliable redundant networks, the combination of the NE2-S1W and the NE2-S1W-TB test kit is your ideal choice for accelerating product wireless upgrades.