The rule.box USB from Wiesemann & Theis unlocks versatile possibilities for automation and data processing via USB interfaces. It is ideal for use in building automation, Industry 4.0, and demanding IT environments. With preinstalled Node‑RED software, automation workflows can be graphically created in the browser without programming knowledge. The USB interface enables the integration of many device types – from HID components like barcode scanners to USB‑serial converters or storage media.

Combined with fast Ethernet connectivity, Power‑over‑Ethernet (PoE), and web‑based management, the rule.box USB offers a flexible platform for control, data acquisition, and visualization in modern automation networks.

Node‑RED: visual automation for USB devices

Node‑RED is a graphical development tool that allows direct connections between input, processing, and output nodes. The rule.box USB comes with a fully preinstalled Node‑RED environment, enabling automation tasks to be configured via drag‑and‑drop. This intuitive interface makes it accessible even for users without programming experience.

Through USB connectivity for HID devices (e.g., barcode scanners, keyboards, RFID readers), USB‑serial converters (e.g., RS232 adapters), and storage media, many applications can be realized:

• Capturing and processing input signals or barcode data
• Communicating with machine controllers via serial protocols
• Storing production or measurement data on USB media

Node‑RED allows these functions to be combined with other systems: for example, a USB barcode scanner can read inventory data and then send it via an MQTT server to an ERP system.

Versatile USB connectivity for automation systems

The rule.box USB interface supports three main categories of devices:

• HID devices – for capturing manual inputs (scanners, keypads, card readers)
• USB‑Serial converters – for connecting traditional RS232 or Modbus devices
• Storage media – for logging or transferring process data

This versatility allows implementation of both simple sensor/actuator applications and complex industrial processes. Preinstalled W&T nodes for Web‑IOs, Web thermometers, and Com‑Servers expand usage options and can be used directly in Node‑RED.

Network integration and web management

An Ethernet interface (10/100 BaseT) provides easy integration into existing network environments. All connected USB devices can exchange data via IP‑based protocols. The integrated web‑based management tool grants access to device configuration, network settings, and flow monitoring.

The preconfigured WuTility software simplifies initial setup: the device is automatically detected and configured in just three clicks. Once online, the rule.box can start flows and manage USB sensors or actuators in live operation.

Data processing and visualization

The rule.box USB supports local information storage (file system, MariaDB, SQLite) and real‑time presentation via the Node‑RED dashboard. Users can easily create graphical interfaces to monitor or manually control connected devices.

Examples:

• Visualizing scanner data for inventory control
• Displaying USB port activity or processing measurement values
• Manual control of connected serial devices via interactive dashboard elements

These dashboards are ideal for smart‑building applications, production facilities, or laboratory automation where status reporting and live control are required simultaneously.

Flexible power supply and energy efficiency

The rule.box USB can be powered via Power‑over‑Ethernet (PoE) or an external 24–48 V DC supply. PoE enables space‑saving installation and reduces wiring effort. Buffer capacitors prevent data loss in case of power failure by enabling controlled shutdown.

Its energy‑efficient design ensures continuous reliability with minimal consumption, making it well‑suited for permanent use in energy‑optimized environments.

Standards compliance and industrial reliability

The rule.box USB meets international EMC and safety standards:

• EN 61000‑6‑2 (immunity for industrial environments)
• EN 55032 + A1 Class B (emissions)
• EN 61000‑3‑2 / EN 61000‑3‑3 (power compatibility)

Its industrial construction offers protection against electromagnetic interference. Both housing and electronics are built for continuous operation, and Wiesemann & Theis offers a five‑year warranty.

Typical applications

• Logistics and warehousing: automatic barcode capture via USB scanners with Node‑RED processing
• Industrial automation: integration of serial controls via USB converters, e.g., Modbus RTU communication
• Smart building: accessing sensor data or user interactions with HID readers
• Data logging: storing process or test data on USB sticks with dashboard‑based analysis

Easy commissioning

Thanks to its web interface and WuTility software, setup is completed within minutes. Node‑RED allows creation, expansion, and adaptation of workflows to changing processes, making the rule.box a standalone IoT platform in network operation.

USB flexibility for industrial automation

The rule.box USB combines USB connectivity, graphical automation, and energy‑efficient architecture in a compact system. With Node‑RED, Ethernet, PoE, and flexible hardware, it offers developers and integrators a secure tool for building scalable automation systems. Whether for data logging, machine control, or user interaction, the rule.box USB is a future‑ready solution for flexible industrial control and smart‑building architectures.