>To all network gurus on a PICLIST,
>I have RS485 network of one master and multiple (around 5) remote
>controls (with PICs, of coarse). In previous situations I always
>daizy-chaned remotes, terminated two far ends and had no problems. Now I
>can't do that. So I have star configuration with one master transmitter
>connected to at least 5 parallel receivers (with cable length
>300-500ft), and all 5 transmitters on remote controls connected to one
>master receiver. Slave transmitters have transmit enable, so they are
>activated only one at a time. Transceivers are MAX489.
>So the question is:
>Though I understand that star configuration is not recommended for 485,
>what would be the best solution for this situation (from the point of
>view of termination, I guess - or whatever).
>Will be thankful for any advice.

Not a guru, but a fellow seeker, and in my research came across B+B
electronics' fabulous tutorial.  They give info on how to decide whether
you need to terminate based on data rate and cable length.  You would need
to know the cable's propogation velocity supplied by mfr.  As others have
mentioned, see

http://www.bb-elec.com/welcome.html

and look for their RS-422/485 Application Note, and check out p.16

Bruce