StarTech.com
StarTech 1-Port PCI Express Serial Card
Best serial card for connecting legacy industrial equipment to modern PCs.
This StarTech 1-port PCI Express serial card allows you to add RS232 (DB9) serial communication support to your desktop computer or Small Form Factor (SFF) system. It features a 16C1050 UART, 256-byte FIFO for efficient data transfer, and supports bi-directional speeds up to 921.6 Kbps. Ideal for IT applications, industrial control, automation, and logistics, this card enables the continued use of legacy serial devices like barcode readers, receipt printers, and scales. It includes a low-profile bracket for SFF systems and LED status lights to monitor activity. Compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems, it comes with a 2-year warranty.
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
110
/ 1154
#110 in Computer Interface Cards & Adapters
Brand
.
/ StarTechcom
Who it's for
- Technicians maintaining legacy industrial or point-of-sale hardware
- System builders integrating serial devices into modern motherboards
- IT professionals requiring reliable, driver-supported connectivity solutions
Who should skip it
- Average consumers who have no use for legacy serial ports
- Users uncomfortable with opening their PC case for hardware installation
- Power users needing to connect multiple serial devices simultaneously
Performance breakdown
Data throughput
The 256-byte FIFO buffer ensures smooth, reliable high-speed serial communication.
Legacy compatibility
Perfect for keeping older industrial hardware functional in modern computing environments.
Installation versatility
Low-profile bracket support makes this an easy fit for compact systems.
Power flexibility
Configurable 5V or 12V power over pin 9 eliminates external cables.
System integration
Broad driver support ensures seamless operation across Windows and Linux platforms.
Build reliability
Solid engineering backed by a two-year warranty for long-term peace of mind.
Key Specs
Brand
StarTech.com
Manufacturer
StarTech.com
Form Factor
Plug-in Card
Host Interface
PCI Express x1
Serial Ports (External)
1
Product Type
Serial Adapter
Country of Origin
Taiwan
Platform Supported
Linux, PC
Features
- Adds RS232 (DB9) serial port to your computer
- Supports 16C1050 UART for enhanced performance
- Enables continued use of legacy serial devices
- Includes low-profile bracket for SFF systems
- LED status lights for activity monitoring
- Compatible with Windows and Linux
- Supports 5V or 12V power over pin 9
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the StarTech 1 Port PCI Express Serial Card for its exceptional reliability and straightforward installation. Many users highlight its seamless compatibility across various operating systems, often recognizing the card without complex driver issues. This plug and play experience, coupled with its consistent performance, makes it a trusted solution for integrating legacy serial devices into modern systems. The card simply works as expected, providing a dependable serial connection.
Know before you buy
Yes, the card includes a low-profile bracket specifically designed for SFF systems, making it compatible with compact computer cases.
Yes, this card supports power over pin 9, allowing you to configure it for either 5V or 12V output depending on the requirements of your specific serial device.
This card is compatible with both Windows and Linux operating systems, ensuring broad support for various IT and industrial environments.
The card supports bi-directional data transfer speeds of up to 921.6 Kbps, which is sufficient for most legacy serial applications like barcode scanners and receipt printers.
The card features built-in LED status lights that provide a visual indicator of activity, allowing you to easily monitor data transmission.
The 16C1050 UART, paired with a 256-byte FIFO buffer, is designed to handle high-speed data transfers more efficiently than standard UARTs, reducing the risk of data loss during busy operations.
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