StarTech.com
USB to DB9 RS232 Serial Adapter Cable
Best serial adapter for connecting legacy hardware to modern computers.
The StarTech.com ICUSB232V2 is a 1-port USB to RS232 DB9 serial adapter cable designed to connect modern computers to legacy serial devices. It converts a USB port into an RS232 DB9 serial port, supporting data transfer rates up to 921.6 Kbps. This adapter offers broad compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, making it suitable for various environments. Its portable and lightweight design, powered directly by the USB port, makes it ideal for professionals on the go. The adapter is easy to use, requiring no complex IRQ or DMA setup, and allows for the continued use of existing serial devices.
$19.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
134
/ 743
#134 in USB Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-60%
Below average
Cable Length
16.9
/ inches
Who it's for
- IT professionals managing diverse hardware across multiple operating systems
- Industrial technicians requiring stable connections for sensitive networking equipment
- Field workers needing a portable, clutter-free setup without external power
Who should skip it
- Engineers working on applications requiring microsecond-level timing precision
- Novice users or employees on locked-down corporate systems
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking the lowest possible price point
Performance breakdown
Data throughput
High-speed transfer rates handle demanding legacy hardware communication with ease.
Compatibility range
Broad OS support ensures seamless integration across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Setup simplicity
Plug-and-play functionality eliminates the headache of complex IRQ or DMA configuration.
Portability
Lightweight, bus-powered design is perfect for technicians working in the field.
Build durability
Standard plastic housing is functional but lacks the ruggedness of industrial-grade alternatives.
Connection reliability
The Prolific chipset provides a stable, consistent link for serial devices.
Key Specs
Cable Length
16.9 inches
Max Baud Rate
921.6 Kbps
FIFO
512 Byte
Chipset
Prolific PL2303GT
Data Bits
5, 6, 7, 8
Parity Modes
Odd, Even, Mark, Space, or None
Stop Bits
1, 1.5, 2
Number of Ports
1
Features
- Converts USB to RS232 DB9 serial port
- High data transfer rates up to 921.6 Kbps
- Broad OS compatibility including Windows, Linux, and macOS
- Simple plug-and-play installation
- Male-to-male connector
- Bus-powered for convenience
- Lightweight design ideal for professionals on the go
- No IRQ or DMA setup required
What customers say
Professional users overwhelmingly praise this adapter for its exceptional reliability and broad compatibility. It is considered the gold standard for serial connectivity, often succeeding where cheaper alternatives fail. Satisfaction centers on the robust performance across Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it essential for managing legacy equipment. Users consistently highlight the high quality and stable chipset, ensuring uninterrupted connections during configuration. While the premium price is noted, the consensus is that the superior build quality and the time saved avoiding troubleshooting issues fully justify the investment. This positions the adapter as a critical, professional grade tool.
Know before you buy
Yes, this adapter is specifically designed to bridge the gap between modern USB-equipped computers and legacy RS232 serial hardware. It effectively converts a USB port into a standard DB9 serial port, allowing you to continue using your existing equipment.
The adapter is designed for simple plug-and-play installation and does not require any complex IRQ or DMA configuration. While most modern operating systems will recognize the device, you may need to ensure the Prolific PL2303GT chipset drivers are up to date for optimal performance.
Yes, the adapter offers broad compatibility across major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for various technical environments.
No, the adapter is bus-powered, meaning it draws all the necessary electricity directly from your computer's USB port. This makes it a convenient, clutter-free solution for professionals who need to work on the go.
This adapter supports high-speed data transfer rates of up to 921.6 Kbps. This is more than sufficient for most standard serial communication tasks, such as configuring network equipment or connecting industrial sensors.
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