COP Security USB Converter, translates the RS-485 signal from the meters to a signal that can be understood by your computer. This converter uses a chip that is manufactured by FTDI, which is much more robust, reliable, and easier to use than competing chips. No power is required. It is built with 2KV surge protection and 15KV electrostatic discharge. You can connect up to 256 meters on 4000 feet of twisted pair wire to this converter.