10 Best Usb To Serial Adapter (2024 Update)

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If you're looking for a USB to serial adapter, it's important to know a few key points before making a purchase. This type of adapter allows you to connect devices with a serial port to your computer via USB, making it a useful tool for a variety of applications. Here are five key points to consider when looking for a USB to serial adapter:

1. Compatibility: Ensure that the adapter you choose is compatible with your computer's operating system and the device you'll be connecting. Check the manufacturer's website for compatibility information.

2. Speed: Serial ports have limited data transfer speeds, so make sure the adapter you choose can handle the speed you need for your application.

3. Drivers: Some adapters require drivers to be installed on your computer, so check to see if the manufacturer provides them and if they are compatible with your operating system.

4. Cable length: Consider the length of the cable that comes with the adapter, as well as whether you need any additional cables or adapters to connect to your device.

5. Price: USB to serial adapters can range in price from very cheap to quite expensive, so consider your budget and the features you need when making a purchase.

Overall, a USB to serial adapter can be a useful tool for connecting older devices to your computer. Just be sure to consider these key points before making a purchase to ensure that you get an adapter that meets your needs.

10 Best Usb To Serial Adapter

1. Tripp Lite Usb To Serial Adapter, Usb-A To Db9 Rs232 Male, 3ft Cable, 3-Year Warranty (Usa-19hs)

The Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter is a versatile and reliable solution for connecting serial devices to a USB computer. This adapter features a USB-A to DB9 RS232 male cable, which is three feet or 0.91 meters long and comes with a three-year warranty.

One of the main advantages of this adapter is its plug-and-play convenience. When you connect it to your computer, the DB9 serial port is automatically recognized as a COM port and becomes available for use by any program that accesses COM ports. This means that you don't need to install any drivers or configure any settings to start using your serial device.

Another benefit of this adapter is that it doesn't require an external power adapter. Instead, it draws power directly from your computer via the USB connection. This makes it a more convenient and portable solution than other serial adapters that require additional power sources.

In terms of performance, the DB9 serial port of this adapter supports data transfer rates up to 230 Kbps. This is twice the speed of a standard built-in serial port, which makes it ideal for applications that require fast and reliable data transfer.

To help you monitor the status and activity of the adapter, it also features an LED indicator that shows the adapter status and data activity at a glance. This makes it easier to troubleshoot any issues and ensures that you always have a clear view of what's happening with your serial device.

Overall, the Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter is a high-quality and dependable solution for connecting serial devices to your computer. With its plug-and-play convenience, fast data transfer rates, and reliable performance, it is a great choice for a wide range of applications.

2. Gearmo Usb To Serial Adapter With Led Indicators, Ftdi Chipset, Supports Windows & Mac.

Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, FTDI Chipset, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above is a versatile adapter that connects legacy DB-9 serial communications devices to modern computers via USB. With a 5ft length, this adapter is designed to make serial communication between devices and computers easier and more efficient.

One of the standout features of this adapter is the easy test RS-232 host to device link. This is made possible by a full LED, dual-color display, and tester output. The LED indicators provide a visual representation of the connection status, making it easy to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

The Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, as well as Linux and MacOS 10.X. This makes it a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of settings and industries.

As a trusted partner based in the USA, Gearmo provides advanced engineering, highly reliable, and superior built products to handle the most demanding industries for over 20 years. This adapter is no exception. It is built to last and can handle even the most demanding environments.

For those who require technical specifications, Gearmo offers CAD drawings, mechanical drawings, and data sheets. This ensures that customers have all the information they need to make informed decisions when purchasing their adapter.

Overall, the Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, FTDI Chipset, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above is a reliable and versatile tool that can help streamline serial communication between devices and computers. Its LED indicators and compatibility with multiple operating systems make it a valuable asset in a variety of settings.

3. Oikwan Usb To Rs232 Adapter With Ftdi Chipset For Windows, Linux And Mac Os (6ft)

The OIKWAN USB to RS232 adapter is a versatile and reliable solution for connecting serial devices to your computer or other platform. It features a male DB9 serial cable and uses the FTDI chipset for fast and efficient data transfer. This USB adapter is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Linux and Mac OS.

This USB to serial adapter is designed to work with a variety of serial devices, such as modems, ISDN terminal adapters, digital cameras, label writers, palm computers, barcode scanners, PDAs, cash registers, CNC machines, PLC controllers, tax printers, POS systems, and label printers. Its plug-and-play design makes it easy to use without requiring any external power supply.

The FTDI chipset used in this USB to RS232 adapter ensures reliable and fast operation, with a data transfer rate of up to 1Mbps. This makes it ideal for applications that require high-speed data transfer, such as industrial automation, data acquisition, and control systems.

The USB to serial adapter is also designed with an exquisite and durable PVC cable and gold-plated USB RS232 connector, ensuring high performance and extra durability. It is powered by the USB port, making it easy to carry around and use on the go.

Installing this USB to RS232 adapter is simple and straightforward, with no additional drivers or software required. The COM port can be easily created, and baud rate can be changed to the required settings. This makes it a convenient solution for users who need to connect their serial devices to their computer or other platform quickly and easily.

In conclusion, the OIKWAN USB to RS232 adapter is a high-quality and versatile solution that provides reliable and efficient connectivity for serial devices. Its compatibility with various operating systems, fast data transfer rate, and easy installation make it an ideal choice for users who need to connect their serial devices to their computer or other platform.

4. Startech's 4 Port Usb To Serial Rs232 Adapter With Wall Mount, Din Rail, Com Port Retention, And Ftdi Usb To Db9 Rs232 Hub. (Model: Icusb2324i)

The StarTech.com 4 Port USB to Serial RS232 Adapter is a high-performance device designed for industrial settings. With its rugged all-metal enclosure, this adapter is built to withstand harsh environments and last for the long haul. This is an industrial-strength USB to serial adapter that can handle even the toughest working conditions.

One of the standout features of this adapter is its COM retention capabilities. With this feature, COM port assignments are maintained during reboots, which makes it incredibly convenient for users. This means that even if the system is restarted, the adapter will still remember the COM port assignments, which saves time and effort for users.

The StarTech.com 4 Port USB to Serial RS232 Adapter is also incredibly easy to install. It is powered by an available USB port or cable, which means there is no need for an external power adapter. This makes installation a breeze and ensures that users can start using the adapter right away.

For added convenience, this adapter comes with integrated wall mount brackets and DIN Rail clips. This provides versatile mounting options for users, which means that they can easily mount the adapter in the most suitable location for their needs.

Overall, the StarTech.com 4 Port USB to Serial RS232 Adapter is a reliable and durable device that is perfect for industrial settings. With its COM retention capabilities, plug-and-play installation, and versatile mounting options, this adapter is a must-have for anyone who needs to connect multiple serial devices to their computer.

5. Sabrent Usb To Serial Converter Cable With Prolific Chipset And Hexnuts, Compatible With Windows And Mac Os, 2.5 Feet (Cb-Db9p)

The SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable is a reliable and high-quality solution for connecting USB devices to traditional RS-232 serial ports. With its Prolific chipset and HEXNUTS design, this cable provides a secure and stable connection that is compatible with a wide range of operating systems.

Whether you're using Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and above, or Linux 2.4 or above, this cable is easy to set up and use. Simply plug your device into the adapter and the adapter into your PC or Mac, and you're ready to go.

One of the great features of this cable is its ability to modify COM ports and Baud rates to your desired set up. This provides flexibility and customization for a wide range of devices and applications.

In addition to its functionality, the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable also comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty. This ensures that you can rely on the cable for years to come and have peace of mind knowing that it is backed by a reputable company.

Overall, if you are in need of a reliable and versatile cable for connecting USB devices to traditional RS-232 serial ports, the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable is an excellent choice. Its high-quality design, compatibility with a wide range of operating systems, and lifetime manufacturer warranty make it a top-notch solution for your connectivity needs.

6. Professional Usb To I2c Serial Adapter With Ttl Level Input And Cmos Output.

The EC Buying FT200XD CJMCU-200 USB to Serial Adapter USB to I2C Serial Module IIC Port TTL Level Input CMOS Output Transfer Convertor Serial Adapter is a highly efficient and integrated USB to I2C interface device that simplifies USB to I2C designs and reduces external component count. It is a small form factor 3x3mm 10 pin package that includes an external EEPROM and a clock circuit, requiring no external crystal. The FT200XD has been designed to operate efficiently with a USB host controller by using as little of the total USB bandwidth available as possible.

The FT200XD is a monolithic USB to I2C interface that supports high-speed mode up to 3.4MHz. It has a unique USB FTDI chip ID feature that allows it to be configured with CBUS I/O pin and can send and receive LED driving signals. The FT200XD can be used as an integrated+3.3V level converter for USB I/O with a single operation power supply of +5V. It also has a 3V3/1V8 LDO regulator inside and is compatible with UHCI/OHCI/EHCI host controllers and USB 2.0 full speed compatibility.

The FT200XD can upgrade traditional peripherals to USB and increase system modularization. It can be applied to USB instruments, USB industrial control, and USB digital camera interfaces. The FT200XD can also monitor the motherboard and system through USB and can be combined with a USB interface to enable PC transmission as development system communication.

The FT200XD has low power consumption capabilities and is capable of operating at a voltage supply between +3.3V and +5V with a nominal operational mode current of 8mA and a nominal USB suspend mode current of 125µA. This provides greater margin for peripheral designs to meet the USB suspend mode current limit of 2.5mA. An integrated level converter within the I2C interface allows the FT200XD to interface to I2C logic running at +1.8V to +3.3V (5V tolerant).

The USB transceiver unit provides a USB 1.1/USB 2.0 full speed physical interface to connect to the USB cable. The output driver provides+3.3V level conversion rate control signal input receiver and two single end input receivers provide USB data reset detection conditions respectively in, single end 0 and USB. Functions include 1.5k Ω pull-up resistor on USBDP. The module also detects when a USB power supply is connected.

Overall, the EC Buying FT200XD CJMCU-200 USB to Serial Adapter USB to I2C Serial Module IIC Port TTL Level Input CMOS Output Transfer Convertor Serial Adapter is a highly efficient and integrated USB to I2C interface device that simplifies USB to I2C designs, reduces external component count, and increases system modularization. It has low power consumption capabilities, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

7. Startech.com Industrial 4 Port Usb Serial Hub With Db9 Converter – Ip30 Rated, Din Rail Mountable, 15kv Esd Protection (Icusb234854i)

The StarTech.com 4 Port Serial Hub USB to RS232/RS485/RS422 Adapter is a rugged and reliable solution for adding multiple serial ports to industrial grade equipment. This industrial metal USB to serial adapter hub features 15kV ESD surge protection (level 4), IP30 rating, and locking connectors on all ports to ensure maximum safety and durability in harsh environments.

With four individually configurable ports, the USB to serial converter can be set to RS232, RS422, or RS485 (2wire/4wire) at baud rates up to 921.6Kbps. This makes it ideal for connecting devices such as barcode scanners and printers to a terminal.

The metal mountable 4-port serial hub comes with a 6ft (1.8 m) screw-lock USB cable and can be securely installed to a desk, wall, or DIN rail using the built-in mounting ears and included DIN brackets. This provides flexibility in terms of installation options and ensures a stable connection for your equipment.

The serial hub can be powered with either the 12V screw-locking power adapter or the 5V USB input. Additionally, each serial port (pin 9) can be set to 5V, 12V (power adapter required), or 0V, providing even more flexibility in terms of power options.

The USB to multiple DB9 male serial converter is widely compatible and supports current and legacy Windows, Linux, macOS, as well as embedded platforms. This ensures that it can be easily integrated into a variety of systems and networks.

Overall, the StarTech.com 4 Port Serial Hub USB to RS232/RS485/RS422 Adapter is a reliable and versatile solution for adding multiple serial ports to industrial grade equipment. Its rugged design, flexible power options, and wide compatibility make it a great choice for a variety of applications.

8. Startech Usb To Serial Rs232 Adapter With Ftdi, Null Modem, And Bus-Powered Cable (Icusb232ftn)

The StarTech.com USB to Serial RS232 Adapter – DB9 Serial DCE Adapter Cable with FTDI – Null Modem – USB 1.1 / 2.0 – Bus-Powered (ICUSB232FTN) is a highly portable and versatile adapter that allows users to easily connect their devices to a serial RS232 port. With its single cable design, users can avoid the need for additional adapters and cables, making it a convenient and practical solution for those who are always on the go.

One of the key features of this adapter is its ability to resolve DTE/DCE conflicts. By converting an available USB port into a null modem RS232 DB9 serial port, users can ensure that their devices are correctly configured and that they can communicate with each other without any issues. This makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications, including industrial control systems, point-of-sale systems, and more.

The StarTech.com USB to Serial RS232 Adapter is also highly compatible, working with both USB 1.0 and 2.0 ports. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems, so users can be confident that it will work seamlessly with their existing infrastructure. This broad compatibility also makes it an ideal solution for those who work with a variety of different devices and systems.

Another key benefit of this adapter is its fast transfer speeds. With support for a Baud Rate up to 921.6Kbps, users can experience lightning-fast data transfers, making it a great choice for those who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. Whether users are working with complex engineering drawings, large databases, or other data-intensive applications, this adapter can help them get the job done quickly and easily.

Overall, the StarTech.com USB to Serial RS232 Adapter – DB9 Serial DCE Adapter Cable with FTDI – Null Modem – USB 1.1 / 2.0 – Bus-Powered (ICUSB232FTN) is a highly versatile and practical solution for anyone who needs to connect their devices to a serial RS232 port. With its single cable design, DTE/DCE conflict resolution, broad compatibility, and fast transfer speeds, it is a great choice for a wide range of applications.

9. Startech Usb To Serial Adapter – Pl-2303 – Db9 Cable – Rs232 Converter (Icusb232v2)

The StarTech.com 1 Port USB to Serial RS232 Adapter is a versatile and portable solution for connecting, monitoring, and controlling serial devices through a USB port. With its broad compatibility, this USB to RS232 converter works seamlessly with USB 1.0 or 2.0 ports on Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.

This USB to DB9 serial adapter is designed for professionals on the go, featuring a portable and lightweight design that can easily fit into any carrying case. It is powered by a USB port, which eliminates the need for an external power adapter.

The USB to serial RS232 adapter supports fast transfer speeds, with a Baud Rate of up to 921.6Kbps, ensuring efficient and reliable communication with connected devices. It also features a straight-through RS232 DB9 serial adapter that allows for easy installation in almost any laptop or desktop computer.

This USB to serial RS232 adapter is compatible with Windows 8, Mac OS X, and Linux, making it the perfect solution for a wide range of applications. Whether you need to connect to a printer, scanner, or other serial device, this USB to DB9 serial adapter cable has you covered.

In conclusion, the StarTech.com 1 Port USB to Serial RS232 Adapter is a powerful and reliable tool for professionals who require seamless and efficient communication with their serial devices. With its broad compatibility and fast transfer speeds, this USB to DB9 serial adapter cable is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a portable and reliable solution.

Best Usb To Serial Adapter FAQs

How do I install drivers for a USB to serial adapter?

To install drivers for a USB to serial adapter, follow these steps:

1. Insert the USB to serial adapter into an available USB port on your computer.

2. Go to the manufacturer's website and download the latest drivers for the adapter.

3. Run the downloaded driver file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers.

4. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.

5. After the restart, connect your serial device to the adapter and check if it is recognized by your computer.

If the adapter is still not recognized, try connecting it to a different USB port or check if the serial device is properly connected. If you are still having issues, contact the manufacturer's support team for assistance.

What are some common applications for USB to serial adapters?

USB to serial adapters are commonly used for a variety of applications in various industries. Some of the most common applications include connecting serial devices such as printers, scanners, modems, and other legacy equipment to modern computers that no longer have serial ports. These adapters are also used to program and configure electronic devices such as routers, switches, and other networking equipment. Industrial automation systems also use USB to serial adapters for connecting to PLCs, HMIs, and other control devices. Additionally, these adapters are used in the healthcare industry for connecting medical equipment such as blood pressure monitors, ECG machines, and ultrasound machines to computers for data analysis and storage. In summary, USB to serial adapters are essential tools for connecting legacy equipment to modern computers and for configuring and programming industrial automation systems and other electronic devices.

What are some troubleshooting tips for USB to serial adapters?

If you are experiencing problems with your USB to serial adapter, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the issue:

1. Check the connection: Ensure that the adapter is properly connected to both the USB and serial ports. Try unplugging and replugging the adapter to ensure a secure connection.

2. Check the drivers: Make sure that the drivers for the adapter are installed and up-to-date. You can check for updates on the manufacturer's website.

3. Check the serial device settings: Verify that the serial device settings (such as baud rate and parity) match the settings in the software you are using.

4. Check for conflicts: Make sure that there are no conflicts with other devices or software on your computer that may be preventing the adapter from working properly.

5. Try a different adapter: If all else fails, try using a different USB to serial adapter to see if the problem is with the adapter itself.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to identify and resolve any issues you are having with your USB to serial adapter.

What are the different types of USB to serial adapters available on the market?

There are several types of USB to serial adapters available on the market, including:

1. Standard USB to RS232 adapters: These adapters enable communication between USB-equipped computers and RS232 serial devices.

2. USB to RS485/RS422 adapters: These adapters enable communication between USB-equipped computers and RS485/RS422 serial devices.

3. USB to TTL adapters: These adapters enable communication between USB-equipped computers and TTL-level serial devices.

4. USB to GPIB adapters: These adapters enable communication between USB-equipped computers and GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) devices.

5. USB to I2C/SPI adapters: These adapters enable communication between USB-equipped computers and I2C/SPI (Inter-Integrated Circuit/Serial Peripheral Interface) devices.

The choice of adapter type depends on the specific serial device being used and the required communication protocol. It is important to select the appropriate adapter for the task at hand to ensure reliable and accurate data transfer.

What is a USB to serial adapter and how does it work?

A USB to serial adapter is a device that allows communication between a computer's USB port and a device that uses a serial port. Serial ports were once used for connecting devices such as modems, printers, and GPS receivers to a computer, but they have been largely replaced by USB ports. However, some legacy devices still use serial ports, and a USB to serial adapter allows these devices to be connected to a computer.

The adapter works by converting the signals between USB and serial formats. The USB port on the computer sends data in a digital format, while the serial device uses analog signals. The adapter translates the digital signals from the USB port into analog signals that can be understood by the serial device, and vice versa. This allows the serial device to communicate with the computer as if it were connected directly to a serial port. USB to serial adapters come in different types, including single-port and multi-port versions, and are commonly used in industrial settings, telecommunications, and hobby electronics.

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