Designed & Made in the USA Since 1983
The MobileCollect RS-232 Base EVO is the base receiver for MobileCollect Wireless measurement data collection systems requiring a native DB9 RS-232 output. It controls the MobileCollect Wireless network, receives measurement data from all paired transmitters, and delivers that data to the connected system via two simultaneous output paths: USB Serial over a virtual COM port, and RS-232 via the rear-panel DB9 port.
The DB9 RS-232 output makes this the correct base receiver when the downstream system requires a native serial connection — PLCs, DCS systems, RS-232-to-Ethernet converters, and legacy data acquisition hardware that cannot accept USB. Both output ports are active simultaneously, enabling dual-destination data routing: measurement data can be sent to a PLC via DB9 and to an SPC application via USB in the same transmission. The USB port also serves as the primary configuration and power interface.
For applications where the downstream system accepts USB or keyboard input — Excel, web-based SPC platforms, PC-based DAQ software — see the Wedge Base EVO. For mobile or tablet deployments, see the MicroBase EVO USB A and MicroBase EVO USB C.
Output Modes –  USB Serial (USB-A) + DB9 RS-232 — simultaneous
Output Connection – 1x USB-A & 1x RS-232 DB9 female
DB9 Baud Rates – 9600, 19.2K, 38.4K (N-8-1)
Wireless Range – Up to 140 ft
USB Driver Required – No
Dimensions / Weight – 3.60″ × 2.63″ × 1.19″ / 2.75 oz (78.0 g)
Power –  USB powered + included 120–230V USB AC adapter
Read Switch Connectors –  1x standard (3x request)
Certifications – FCC (2ACNQB1), IC (12298A-B1), CE, RoHS2, REACH
Includes – 6′ USB cable, 6′ DB9 serial cable, 120–230V USB AC adapter
Origin – Designed & Made in the USA
$495.00
The RS-232 Base EVO connects to the host system via USB and DB9 RS-232, receives wireless measurement data from paired MobileCollect transmitters, and delivers that data simultaneously through both output ports. The USB port outputs RS-232 serial data over a virtual COM port — the same output architecture as the Wedge Base EVO in Serial mode. The DB9 port outputs native RS-232 at the configured baud rate, providing the electrical signal levels and connector format required by PLCs, DCS systems, RS-232-to-Ethernet converters, and legacy instrumentation that predates USB.
Both ports are active simultaneously and transmit the same data. This dual-output architecture enables a single base receiver to serve two downstream systems in parallel — for example, routing measurement data to a PLC via DB9 for closed-loop process control while simultaneously feeding the same readings to an SPC application via USB. A printer and an SPC application. A SCADA system and a quality database. Any two systems that can accept RS-232 serial data can receive the same measurement stream from a single RS-232 Base EVO without additional hardware.
Beyond the measurement value itself, the base can be configured to include the following fields in each transmitted data packet: channel number, channel letter, custom text field, transmitter module ID, transmitter custom label, units, transmitter battery voltage, and signal strength. This allows each measurement record to carry full traceability data to both downstream systems in a single transmission.
The RS-232 Base EVO is the correct base receiver when the downstream measurement system requires a native DB9 RS-232 serial connection, when dual simultaneous output to two separate systems is needed, or when the deployment environment is a PLC-controlled or legacy instrumentation context where USB connectivity is not available or not appropriate.
Use the RS-232 Base EVO when:
Do not use the RS-232 Base EVO when:
A note on power: For DB9 RS-232 operation, the included USB AC adapter must be connected to the USB port to power the base. USB power from a PC is also sufficient.
MobileCollect operates on a hub-and-spoke architecture. The RS-232 Base EVO is the hub. Transmitters — Mobile Modules attached to handheld gages carried by operators, or Remote Transmitters at fixed measurement stations — are the spokes. Each transmitter is paired to a specific base and stores that base’s network identifiers. Measurement data travels wirelessly from the transmitter to the base, which passes it to the connected system via USB Serial, DB9 RS-232, or both simultaneously.
The base controls the wireless network. It is always listening — but transmitters are asleep the vast majority of the time, waking only to send a measurement when a reading is triggered. This sleep architecture means a facility with dozens or hundreds of MobileCollect transmitters generates RF traffic only when measurements are actually being taken. In environments where multiple wireless systems coexist — Wi-Fi, industrial sensors, other 2.4 GHz devices — RM2.4 transmitters are effectively invisible to the RF environment between readings. That benefits every other wireless system in the facility, not just MobileCollect. For a detailed breakdown of how this compares to Bluetooth’s continuous RF traffic model, see Why Bluetooth Fails in Manufacturing.
Multiple bases can operate simultaneously in the same facility without cross-talk — each base operates on a unique Network S/N and PAN ID. A transmitter paired to one base will not send data to any other base, regardless of proximity.
Pairing requires no software for basic deployments. Using the Pair-on-the-Fly method, a transmitter pairs to the RS-232 Base EVO in under a minute using only the hardware buttons on each device. The base enters a pairing window on reset; the transmitter sends a pairing request; both devices confirm the link. After pairing, the transmitter begins delivering measurements to the base immediately on the next read trigger.
A single RS-232 Base EVO can receive data from hundreds of paired transmitters simultaneously. Because pairing is managed at the network identifier level rather than through a fixed device registry, the practical limit on transmitters per base is not a hardware ceiling — it’s what is operationally feasible in a given measurement cell. Each transmitter is identified by a unique network ID, so data from multiple operators and multiple gage types remains cleanly attributed at the software level regardless of how many transmitters are active simultaneously. Each base receiver connects to one computer or control system station — for multi-station deployments, one base is installed per station, with each base managing its own paired transmitter population independently.
All transmitters below can be paired to a single RS-232 Base EVO simultaneously — a mixed system collecting from handheld gages, a bench scale, and a fixed height gage station operates from one base receiver.
The RS-232 Base EVO also supports data collection from Mitutoyo U-Wave-T, TC, and TM transmitters and CDI CORE and VRS indicators with the embedded MicroRidge RM2.4 long-range radio module, configurable via the Extended Setup Program.
MobileCollect supports over 3,500 precision gages and RS-232 devices from more than 50 manufacturers — calipers, micrometers, digital indicators, height gages, comparators, hardness testers, surface roughness testers, scales, force gages, DROs, and more. Supported brands include Mitutoyo, Mahr Federal, Starrett, Fowler, Sylvac, CDI, Brown & Sharpe, Ono Sokki, Insize, LMI, Ohaus, Mettler Toledo, and many others.
Gage compatibility is determined at the transmitter level — the correct transmitter and gage cable combination connects your specific gage to the MobileCollect Wireless system. Two transmitter categories connect to the RS-232 Base EVO:
Digital output gages — calipers, micrometers, indicators, and other instruments with a proprietary data/clock output (Mitutoyo Digimatic, CDI, Ono Sokki, Mahr Federal, and compatible outputs) connect via the Mini Mobile Module EVO, Command Mobile Module, or Digital Remote depending on whether the application is mobile or fixed-station.
RS-232 devices — scales, height gages, roughness testers, hardness testers, DROs, comparators, and any instrument with a full RS-232 DB9 serial output connect via the RS-232 Remote for fixed stations or the RS-232 V2 Mobile Module for portable applications.
The MobileCollect Selection Tool contains the full database of confirmed compatible gages and identifies the correct transmitter and cable for your specific gage model. Use it to confirm compatibility and configure a complete system before purchasing.
If your gage isn’t in the database, contact MicroRidge — compatibility coverage is continuously expanding and our team can confirm support for gages not yet listed.
The RS-232 Base EVO’s DB9 RS-232 output is the direct interface for PLC-controlled measurement systems. PLCs communicate with peripheral devices via RS-232 serial in a wide range of industrial automation applications — machine tool feedback, assembly line verification, press force monitoring, and in-process dimensional control. The RS-232 Base EVO fits into these environments as the wireless front end of the measurement collection chain: transmitters gather readings from gages and instruments across the cell, the base aggregates those readings wirelessly, and the DB9 port delivers the data stream to the PLC in the serial format it expects.
For closed-loop applications where the PLC or automation system needs to initiate measurement collection rather than wait for operator-triggered readings, the Command Mobile Module and RS-232 Remote both support remote triggering via serial commands from the base. The host system sends a command to the RS-232 Base EVO via USB or DB9, the base relays the command wirelessly to the paired transmitter, the transmitter triggers the connected gage, and the reading returns to the base and out through both output ports. This closes the measurement loop without any operator involvement — the automation system controls when, where, and how often readings are taken.
For networked RS-232 applications, the DB9 port pairs directly with RS-232-to-Ethernet converters, enabling measurement data to route over existing plant network infrastructure to remote SPC servers, MES systems, or quality databases without a dedicated PC at the measurement station.
For a broader look at how wireless gage connectivity enables closed-loop process control and lights-out measurement collection, see MobileCollect: Manufacturing Automation Enabler.
No USB driver installation required. The RS-232 Base EVO uses the standard Windows Serial driver for USB communication. No MicroRidge-specific driver installation is required, eliminating a common IT friction point in facilities with controlled software environments.
Unique USB PID/VID registration. EVO bases carry a MicroRidge Vendor ID (VID: 3774 hex / 14196 decimal) and MobileCollect-specific Product ID (PID: 0834 hex). IT administrators can whitelist the device at the hardware permission level in endpoint security systems — no broad USB class exceptions required. MicroRidge is a certified USB-IF member.
Improved RF performance. At EIRP 2.74mW (4.37 dBm) with a radio duty cycle under 1% typical, the RS-232 Base EVO delivers enhanced wireless stability in high-RF-density environments — production floors with variable frequency drives, welding equipment, multiple 2.4 GHz devices, and dense Wi-Fi infrastructure typical of PLC-controlled manufacturing cells.
Increased processing and memory. EVO hardware carries more onboard processing capacity and memory than Legacy bases, improving responsiveness in larger multi-transmitter systems and reducing latency between packet receipt and delivery to the downstream system.
API access. An API is available for integrating base setup and operational control functions directly into PLC programs, SPC software, or MES systems, allowing configuration and operational parameters to be managed programmatically. For more information see the MobileCollect EVO API integration document.Â
The RS-232 Base EVO’s dual output capability extends to a less obvious but highly practical application: driving a Mitutoyo DP-1VA or DP-1VR Digimatic Mini-Processor directly from the MobileCollect wireless system.
The DP-1VA is a self-contained data logger and thermal printer used widely in inspection environments. Standalone, it accepts input only from Digimatic-output gages via a wired connection. A MicroRidge cable assembly bridges the RS-232 Base EVO’s DB9 output to the DP-1VA’s Digimatic input — with protocol translation built directly into the cable. No converter box, no reconfiguration of the DP-1VA, no changes to how operators trigger measurements.
The practical result: the operator takes a measurement wirelessly using any MobileCollect transmitter. The RS-232 Base EVO receives the reading and simultaneously delivers it via DB9 to the DP-1VA for immediate printing at the inspection station, and via USB to SPC software on the connected PC. Both outputs are active concurrently from a single measurement event — no data splitter or additional hardware required.
This also removes the DP-1VA’s native limitation to Digimatic gages only. When paired with MobileCollect via the RS-232 Base EVO, the DP-1VA can print measurement data from any gage supported by the MobileCollect system — over 3,500 gages from more than 50 brands, including calipers, micrometers, indicators, height gages, comparators, hardness testers, surface roughness testers, scales, and force gages. If the gage can connect to MobileCollect, the DP-1VA can print it.
Compatible printers: Mitutoyo DP-1VA (264-505A) and DP-1VR (264-504-5A). The DP-1VA cable assembly is available separately — see the MobileCollect to DP-1VA Cable page for details. The DP-1VA unit itself is sold by Mitutoyo and not included.
Note: This cable and integration are specific to the RS-232 Base EVO. The Wedge Base EVO is not compatible with this cable.
MobileCollect transmits measurement data over MicroRidge’s proprietary RM2.4 protocol — not Bluetooth, not standard Zigbee. RM2.4 operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM band (2.402–2.480 GHz) and was purpose-built for factory floor measurement data collection: prioritizing data integrity, RF noise resilience, and reliable range in the environments where PLC-controlled measurement systems operate — production floors with variable frequency drives, welding equipment, and dense industrial wireless infrastructure. For a detailed technical comparison against Bluetooth in industrial measurement environments, see Why Bluetooth Fails in Manufacturing.
Each transmitter stores the target base’s unique identifiers and includes those identifiers in every transmitted packet. The RS-232 Base EVO processes only packets from paired transmitters — no cross-contamination between data streams regardless of how many MobileCollect systems are operating in the same facility.
Wireless range is up to 140 ft / 45 m line-of-sight. Actual range in any installation depends on RF obstructions between transmitter and base. The general installation guideline is to keep at least 80% of the Fresnel zone free of obstructions and to position the base elevated above metal surfaces to maximize the clear RF path. The three-LED signal strength stack provides real-time installation feedback — at least two LEDs illuminated per transmission is the target minimum.
RF channel is user-configurable (default: channel 21). Channels 16–19 overlap with the default Wi-Fi channel 6 frequency range; in dense Wi-Fi environments, selecting a channel outside this range improves reliability. Any hardware bearing the RM2.4 logo is compatible with any other RM2.4 device across Legacy and EVO generations.
The RS-232 Base EVO includes one 2.5mm read switch connector on the front panel supporting three trigger options:
Wired Foot Switch — A foot switch connected to the read switch port allows hands-free measurement triggering at the base workstation. When used with Command Mobile Modules, a single foot switch press wirelessly commands paired modules to take readings and delivers the results to the downstream system via USB and DB9 simultaneously — without the operator interacting with individual gages.
Wired Hand Switch — A hand switch connected to the read switch port provides the same triggering capability as the foot switch in a handheld form factor — useful when foot switch operation is not practical at the measurement station.
Remote Read Switch — A Mini Mobile Module EVO configured as a Remote Read Switch functions as a wireless hand switch. When the operator presses its Read button, the base wirelessly commands all active paired Command Mobile Modules to take a reading simultaneously. This allows an operator to trigger a multi-gage measurement sequence from anywhere in the workspace — without a wired switch at the base and without being physically present at the control station.
The number of wired read switch connectors can be increased from 1 to 3 as a factory configuration option. Contact MicroRidge for multi-switch configurations.
Automated wireless measurement data collection directly supports the data integrity requirements of ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5, IATF 16949, AS9100D, and 21 CFR Part 820. Manual transcription of measurement values from a gage display to a keyboard entry field or paper form is a documented nonconformance risk — introducing transcription errors, omissions, and operator-to-operator variation that cannot be fully controlled through procedural means. For a detailed look at the operational and quality costs of manual data entry, see The True Cost of Manual Measurement Data Entry.
The RS-232 Base EVO eliminates manual entry as a process step, routing measurement data from the instrument directly to the downstream system via wireless transmission and serial output. For PLC-controlled applications using Command Mobile Modules or RS-232 Remotes with software-commanded triggering, measurement initiation is under system control rather than operator discretion — supporting an auditable, repeatable measurement sequence that withstands scrutiny under IATF 16949 and AS9100D measurement system clauses. For a broader look at how wireless gage connectivity enables inline quality control and AI-ready data infrastructure, see MobileCollect: Manufacturing Automation Enabler.
Basic deployment requires no software for pairing. Using the Pair-on-the-Fly method, a transmitter pairs to the RS-232 Base EVO using the hardware buttons on each device — the base enters a pairing window on reset, the transmitter sends a pairing request, and both devices confirm the link. For standard single-read operation with factory default settings, the system is ready to collect measurements immediately after pairing.
The DB9 baud rate is configurable at 9600, 19.2K, or 38.4K (all N-8-1). For applications requiring different communication parameters on the DB9 port, contact MicroRidge at sales@microridge.com.
The MobileCollect Xpress Setup Program covers the configuration requirements of most deployments: pairing, output format, end-of-packet character, field separator, baud rate, RF channel, and transmitter labeling. The Extended Setup Program provides access to all parameters including Command Mobile Module active command mode, Remote transmitter configuration, read switch functions, U-Wave transmitter integration, and advanced output formatting. Both are free Windows downloads from MicroRidge.
Important: Use Xpress Setup or Extended Setup to configure a given base and its transmitters — not both. The two programs store parameters in different locations on the devices and operate independently.
Left stack — Signal Strength (3 green LEDs): Illuminate on each received transmission. All three on: strong signal. Two on: moderate signal. One on: weak signal — reposition the base or transmitter if this occurs consistently. Minimum target is two LEDs illuminated.
Right stack — Status:
Full LED code reference is in the MobileCollect Hardware User’s Guide.
RS-232 Base EVO is field-upgradeable via MicroRidge’s firmware update utility. The update procedure is designed to prevent incorrect firmware from being loaded into any MobileCollect device. Firmware updates are available on the MobileCollect firmware update page.Â
What is the difference between the RS-232 Base EVO and the Wedge Base EVO?
— Both are full-size desktop base receivers with 140 ft range, read switch connectors, and compatibility with all MobileCollect transmitters. The difference is output architecture. The Wedge Base EVO has a single USB-A port with a hardware slider switch selecting between USB Keyboard Wedge and USB Serial output — it has no DB9 port. The RS-232 Base EVO has both a USB-A port and a DB9 RS-232 port, both active simultaneously, and no keyboard wedge output. Choose the RS-232 Base EVO when the downstream system requires a native DB9 RS-232 connection. Choose the Wedge Base EVO when the downstream system accepts keyboard input or USB serial.
Can both output ports transmit data simultaneously?
— Yes. The USB Serial and DB9 RS-232 ports on the RS-232 Base EVO are both active simultaneously and transmit the same data. This enables a single base receiver to feed two separate downstream systems — for example, a PLC via DB9 and an SPC application via USB — from a single measurement collection event.
What baud rates are supported on the DB9 RS-232 port?
— 9600-N-8-1, 19.2K-N-8-1, and 38.4K-N-8-1. For applications requiring different communication parameters, contact MicroRidge at sales@microridge.com.
Does the RS-232 Base EVO require an external power supply?
— For DB9 RS-232 operation, yes — the included 120–230V USB AC adapter must be connected to the USB port to power the base. USB bus power from a PC port is also sufficient.
Can the RS-232 Base EVO connect directly to a PLC?
— Yes. The DB9 RS-232 port outputs native RS-232 serial data at the configured baud rate and communication parameters. Most PLCs with RS-232 serial ports accept this connection directly using a standard DB9 serial cable. For PLCs requiring RS-232-to-Ethernet bridging, the DB9 port pairs with any standard RS-232-to-Ethernet converter.
Can measurement readings be triggered by the PLC or automation system?
— Yes, via the Command Mobile Module and RS-232 Remote. The host system sends a serial command to the RS-232 Base EVO via USB or DB9; the base relays the command wirelessly to the paired transmitter; the transmitter triggers the connected gage; the reading returns to the base and out through both output ports. This supports closed-loop measurement collection without operator involvement.
What is the difference between the RS-232 Base EVO and the Legacy RS-232 Base?
— Both support all MobileCollect transmitters and the same dual USB Serial and DB9 RS-232 output. The EVO adds: no USB driver installation, unique PID/VID registration for IT-managed environments, improved RF performance, increased onboard processing capacity, and API access. If upgrading from a Legacy base, all previously paired transmitters can be re-paired to the EVO without transmitter replacement.
How many transmitters can be paired to a single RS-232 Base EVO?
— The base supports hundreds of paired transmitters simultaneously. The practical limit is what is operationally feasible in the measurement cell — not a hardware constraint. Mini Mobile Modules, RS-232 Mobile Modules, and Command Mobile Modules with command mode disabled pair via the Global channel. Command Mobile Modules with command mode enabled, RS-232 Remotes, and Digital Remotes are assigned to individual numbered channels (up to 20).
Can the RS-232 Base EVO receive data from Mitutoyo U-Wave transmitters?
— Yes. The RS-232 Base EVO supports Mitutoyo U-Wave, T, TC, and TM transmitters via the Extended Setup Program, allowing facilities with existing U-Wave hardware to route that data through a MobileCollect base alongside MicroRidge transmitters.
Does the RS-232 Base EVO support ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 measurement data collection requirements?
— The RS-232 Base EVO directly supports measurement data integrity requirements under ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5, IATF 16949, AS9100D, and 21 CFR Part 820 by eliminating manual transcription as a process step. For PLC-controlled applications with software-commanded triggering, measurement initiation is under system control rather than operator discretion — supporting an auditable, repeatable measurement sequence. See The True Cost of Manual Measurement Data Entry for a detailed breakdown of the quality and operational impact of manual data collection.
What certifications does the RS-232 Base EVO carry?
— FCC, Industry Canada (IC), CE, RoHS, and REACH. Approved for use in the US, Canada, EU, UK, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
What setup software is required?
— The MobileCollect Xpress Setup Program covers pairing and standard configuration for most deployments. The Extended Setup Program is required for Command Mobile Module active command mode, Remote transmitter configuration, U-Wave integration, and advanced output formatting. Both are free Windows downloads. An API is available for programmatic integration — contact MicroRidge.
What are the physical dimensions and weight?
— 3.70″ × 2.63″ × 1.19″ (L × W × H), 3.00 oz / 85.0 g.
What are the operating environment limits?
— 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C), up to 90% relative humidity non-condensing.
RS-232 Base EVO (MC-BASE-RS232-EVO) Specs | |
|---|---|
Part Number | MC-BASE-RS232-EVO |
Dimensions | 3.60″ × 2.63″ × 1.19″ (L × W × H) / 91.4mm × 66.8mm × 30.2mm |
Weight | 3.00 oz / 85.0 g |
Case Material | ABS |
Output Modes | USB Serial (Virtual COM Port) + DB9 RS-232 — simultaneous |
Output Connection | 1x USB-A (Serial + power + configuration); 1x DB9 female (RS-232 data) |
DB9 Baud Rates | 9600-N-8-1, 19.2K-N-8-1, 38.4K-N-8-1 |
USB Driver Required | No — standard Windows Serial driver |
USB Vendor ID (VID) | 3774 hex / 14196 decimal |
USB Product ID (PID) | 0834 hex / 2100 decimal |
DB9 Pin Assignment | Pin 2: TxD / Pin 3: RxD / Pin 4: DSR / Pin 5: Ground / Pin 6: DTR |
End-of-Packet Character | Configurable: CR (Enter key) / Tab (Tab key) / None / Custom |
Field Separator | Configurable: Comma (default) / Tab / CR |
Power | USB AC adapter (included) for DB9 RS-232 operation; USB power sufficient for USB Serial |
Read Switch Connectors | 1x 2.5mm standard; 3x by request |
Left LED Stack | 3x Green — received signal strength (Strong / Moderate / Weak) |
Right LED Stack | Green — Power; Yellow — Data Received; Red — Data Sent |
Wireless Protocol | RM2.4 conforming to IEEE 802.15.4, 2.4 GHz ISM Band |
Frequency Range | Tx: 2.402–2.480 GHz / Rx: 2.402–2.480 GHz |
RF Output Power | EIRP 2.74mW (4.37 dBm) |
Radio Duty Cycle | <1% typical, 4.1% peak |
Wireless Range | 140 ft |
API | Available — contact MicroRidge for information |
Firmware | Field-upgradeable |
Operating Temperature | 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) |
Operating Humidity | ≤90% RH, non-condensing |
Certifications | FCC (2ACNQB1), IC (12298A-B1), CE, RoHS2, REACH |
Country Approvals | US, Canada, EU, UK, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa |
Includes | 6′ USB cable, 6′ DB9 serial cable, 120–230V USB AC adapter |
Country of Origin | Designed & Made in the USA |
Transmitter Compatibility | All MobileCollect transmitters (Legacy and EVO) |
