USB to Serial Adapter Cable for connecting RS-232 devices; such as terminals, printers and scanner...USB to Serial Adapter Cable for connecting RS-232 devices; such as terminals, printers and scanners to modern computers with USB Type A sockets. This adapter features a 1.8m length for convenient placement.
This Cables Direct USB to Serial Adapter Cable (1.8m) is designed for users needing to connect legacy RS-232 devices like terminals, printers, and scanners to modern computers equipped with USB Type-A ports. Its primary benefit is enabling compatibility between older hardware and newer systems without requiring internal expansion cards. A potential caveat is the reliance on specific drivers for full functionality.
All features
Series
USB AM DB9M ADA BLK FTDI
Model Part Number
CDL 1.8m USB AM? DB9M ADA BLK FTDI
Brand
Cables Direct
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What type of serial port does this adapter use?
This adapter uses a standard DB9 male serial connector, which is common for RS-232 communication.
Do I need to install drivers?
Yes, driver installation is typically required for the adapter to be recognized by your operating system and function correctly. FTDI drivers are recommended.
Can I use this adapter with a USB-C port?
This adapter has a USB Type-A connector. To use it with a USB-C port, you will need a separate USB-A to USB-C adapter or hub.
What is the maximum data transfer rate?
The adapter supports standard RS-232 baud rates. The exact maximum rate depends on the FTDI chipset and driver configuration, but it is suitable for most legacy serial devices.
Is this adapter powered externally?
No, this adapter draws power directly from the USB port and does not require an external power supply.
Will this work with my specific industrial equipment?
It should work with most equipment using the RS-232 standard. However, it's recommended to check your equipment's communication specifications and confirm it uses standard RS-232 signaling.
Troubleshooting
Adapter not recognized by the computer
Ensure the USB connector is fully inserted. Try a different USB port. Download and manually install the latest FTDI drivers for your operating system.
COM port not appearing in device manager
Verify that the drivers are correctly installed. Restart your computer after driver installation. Check if the connected serial device is powered on.
Data transfer errors or intermittent connection
Check the serial cable connections to both the adapter and the device. Ensure the correct baud rate and communication settings are configured in your software. Try a different USB port.
Device connected but not communicating
Confirm the serial device is powered on and functioning independently. Double-check the COM port number assigned to the adapter in your system's device manager and ensure your application is configured to use that port.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Enables connection of older serial devices to modern USB ports.
1.8m cable offers good flexibility in placement.
Uses a reputable FTDI chipset for stable performance.
Simple plug-and-play setup on most operating systems.
Cost-effective solution for extending hardware life.
Cons
Requires driver installation for optimal performance.
Not suitable for devices requiring higher baud rates or specialized serial protocols.
USB-A connector limits compatibility with devices that only have USB-C ports without an adapter.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Connect the USB Type-A end of the adapter to an available USB port on your computer.
Connect the DB9 serial (male) end to your RS-232 device.
Your operating system may automatically detect the adapter and install drivers. If not, you will need to download and install the appropriate FTDI drivers from the manufacturer's website.
Once drivers are installed and the device is recognized, it will typically appear as a COM port in your device manager or application settings.
Compatibility:
Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows (XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, 11), macOS, and Linux. Specific driver versions may be required for older OS versions.
Devices: Primarily designed for devices using the RS-232 serial communication standard.
Care:
Keep the adapter and connectors clean and free from dust and debris.
Avoid exposing the cable to extreme temperatures or moisture.
Do not bend the cable sharply, as this can damage internal wiring.