Question on Serial Communication

[Nemord]

I currently have a torque transducer that sends it torque information with RS-485 serial. I have the data protocol and I am wondering if I can take the two data wires from the RS-485 interface and wire them directly onto a BNC connection to acquire the data? I have a power supply to excite the transducer with 12V. 

[RTSLVU]

A BNC connected to what?

You do know that RS-485 is a data connection, not an analog voltage you can read with a DAQ right? 

[crossrulz]

Good luck figuring out what the data actually means if you do use an Analog Input.  Use a part that does the decoding for you and just shows up as a serial port.  Life gets A LOT easier that way.

To get you started: https://www.ni.com/en-us/shop/category/gpib-serial-and-ethernet.html?productId=118842

Limit to RS-485 devices and choose the type of connection to your computer that you need (PCI, PXI, USB).

You could probably find some cheaper USB-RS485 adapters with a simple Google search.

[RTSLVU · Accepted solution]

Building on what crossrulz said I would suggest something like this http://www.ftdichip.com/Products/Cables/USBRS485.htm

This will install a "virtual com port" and communicating with your RS-485 device will be no different than communicating with any other serial device using VISA.