Skip to content

RS485 Spy is an open-source hardware tool for real-time monitoring, logging, and testing of RS-485 networks

License

Notifications You must be signed in to change notification settings

rmingon/rs485-spy-injector

Repository files navigation

ESP32 RS485 Hacker Suite

Sniff, Inject, and Control RS485 Communication from Your Phone

picture

Overview

ESP32 RS485 Hacker Suite is a mobile-integrated toolkit built around the ESP32 microcontroller, designed to interact with RS485-based communication systems. This system allows for full control, inspection, and injection of RS485 traffic — making it a valuable asset for penetration testers, reverse engineers, and industrial system analysts.

Features

  • RS485 Sniffing
    Monitor and log communication over RS485 in raw hex format. Useful for debugging, protocol analysis, or reverse engineering.

  • Hex Injection (Manual & Presets)
    Send custom hex data manually or use predefined presets. This supports use cases like device emulation, protocol fuzzing, or triggering specific system behaviors.

  • Mobile App Interface
    Control every feature directly from a smartphone via a dedicated app. Includes interfaces for configuration, command sending, and history review.

  • Dual RS485 Bus Support
    Work with two independent RS485 buses, ideal for simultaneously observing and injecting data into separate lines.

  • WiFi Configuration
    Easily connect your ESP32 to a local network or operate it in AP mode.

  • Command Presets
    Create and store frequently used hex commands for rapid execution.

  • Reception History
    View a log of all received data, enabling traffic inspection and replay.

Ethical Hacking Applications

Important: This tool is provided for authorized use only. Unauthorized access or tampering with industrial systems is illegal and unethical.

  • Reverse engineering RS485-based protocols (MODBUS RTU, proprietary systems, etc.)
  • Pen-testing building automation hardware (e.g., HVAC, elevator controllers, door access systems)
  • Replay attacks or fault injection to test system resilience
  • Simulating RS485 slave/master devices
  • Forensic logging of unsecured RS485 data transmissions

Hardware

  • ESP32 (WROOM or S3 variant recommended)
  • Dual RS485 transceivers (e.g., MAX485)
  • Level shifters and protection diodes
  • Power supply (USB or external)
  • Custom PCB (designed in KiCad)

Mobile App Overview

  • Configure each RS485 bus individually
  • Set baud rates and communication parameters
  • Enter and send custom hex data manually
  • Create named command presets (e.g., open door)
  • View reception history for each bus

Quick Example

Preset: Open door
Command: 09 21 32 AA B2
Target Device: Access Controller
Result: Relay Triggered, Door Unlocked

Getting Started

Flashing Firmware

  1. Upload main.cpp to your ESP32 using Arduino IDE or PlatformIO.
  2. Power on the device and connect via serial or mobile app.
  3. Configure your RS485 settings and network preferences.

Using the App

  1. Connect to the ESP32 over WiFi.
  2. Select Bus 1 or Bus 2.
  3. Set the appropriate baud rate.
  4. Send hex data manually or use a saved preset.
  5. Monitor the reception log for data.

Protocols Supported

  • MODBUS RTU
  • BACnet MS/TP (partial)
  • Custom/Proprietary RS485 protocols
  • Most serial-based building and industrial control protocols

Disclaimer

This tool is meant for educational, testing, and research purposes only. Use it exclusively on systems you own or have explicit permission to test.

You are fully responsible for how this tool is used. Unauthorized access or tampering with live systems can lead to legal consequences.

  1. Use and Modify the project under CERN-OHL v2 license.

License

This project is licensed under the CERN Open Hardware Licence Version 2. See LICENSE file for full terms.

About

RS485 Spy is an open-source hardware tool for real-time monitoring, logging, and testing of RS-485 networks

Topics

Resources

License

Stars

Watchers

Forks

Releases

No releases published

Packages

No packages published