StarTech.com 21050-PC-SERIAL-CARD 2-Port PCIe Serial Card - RS232 DB9 - 16C1050 UART - COM Retention - Windows & Linux
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This PCIe serial card operates on a PCI Express 2.0 x1 interface, providing sufficient bandwidth for dual-port serial communication without impacting system performance. Each port supports data rates up to 921.6 Kbps with configurable parity modes (Odd/Even/Mark/Space/None) and data bits (5/6/7/8/9), offering flexibility for diverse serial protocols.
The Asix AX99100 controller manages the PCIe-to-serial conversion, while the 16C1050 UART chips handle the serial communication with 256-byte FIFO buffers that reduce CPU overhead during data transfers. LED status indicators on each DB9 connector provide visual feedback on port activity, simplifying troubleshooting in production environments.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, Platform Supported, Number of Serial Ports (External). When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This serial adapter stands out with its professional feature set designed for IT and industrial applications. The combination of hardware reliability, software compatibility, and physical flexibility makes it a versatile solution for extending serial connectivity in diverse computing environments.
Legacy Device Support
Enables connection of barcode scanners, receipt printers, scales, PLCs, medical devices, and other RS232 equipment to modern computers without native serial ports.
- 5V/12V power over pin 9
- Screw-locking cable compatibility
- Industrial-grade construction
Professional Reliability
Built with commercial-grade components and backed by StarTech.com's 2-year warranty with lifetime technical support, ensuring long-term dependability.
- 24/5 multi-lingual support
- RoHS/WEEE compliant
- Industrial temperature tolerance
Deployment / Use Cases
This PCIe serial card is ideal for environments where legacy serial devices must integrate with modern computing infrastructure. Its robust design and compatibility features make it suitable for demanding applications that require consistent serial communication.
In industrial settings, the card connects programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and sensor networks to monitoring and control systems. The low-profile bracket option allows installation in compact industrial PCs and embedded systems where space is constrained.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, Platform Supported, Number of Serial Ports (External). When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
IT Infrastructure
Server room management consoles, KVM switches, and network equipment that utilize serial interfaces for configuration and monitoring.
Commercial Applications
Retail point-of-sale systems connecting receipt printers and barcode scanners, laboratory equipment interfacing, and logistics tracking systems.
Physical Profile
The card features a low-profile design measuring 0.70 inches in height, making it compatible with small form factor systems while maintaining full functionality. The compact dimensions (2.60 x 2.60 inches) ensure compatibility with most PCIe slots, and the lightweight construction minimizes stress on the motherboard connector.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: Low-profile, 2.60" (66.04 mm), 2.60" (66.04 mm), 0 oz (0 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 2.60" (66.04 mm)
- Depth
- 2.60" (66.04 mm)
- Height
- Low-profile
- Weight
- 0 oz (0 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate installation and operation in various system configurations.
Highlights
- Dual RS232 DB9 ports for connecting legacy serial devices
- PCI Express x1 interface for modern computer compatibility
- 16C1050 UART chipset with 921.6 Kbps maximum baud rate
- COM port retention ensures consistent device recognition
- Includes both standard and low-profile mounting brackets
- Supports Windows and Linux operating systems
- LED status indicators for each serial port
- 2-year warranty with lifetime technical support
- RoHS and WEEE environmental compliance
- Industrial-grade construction for reliable operation
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 21050-PC-SERIAL-CARD |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | Two-port PCIe Serial Card |
| Product Type | Serial Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | PCI Express x1 |
| Platform Supported | PC,Linux |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Number of Serial Ports (External) | 2 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Card |
| Card Height | Low-profile |
| Height | 0.70" (17.78 mm) |
| Width | 2.60" (66.04 mm) |
| Depth | 2.60" (66.04 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 0 oz (0 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | Two-port PCIe Serial Card 2 x Low-Profile Brackets 1 x Quick-Start Guide |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
| Additional Warranty Information | 2-years by StarTech.com, including free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance. |
User Manual
FAQ
What types of devices can I connect to this PCIe serial card?
This serial card connects RS232 DB9 devices including barcode scanners, receipt printers, digital scales, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), medical equipment, industrial sensors, and legacy peripherals. The ports provide standard RS232 signaling with support for screw-locking cables, making them suitable for environments where secure connections are essential.
Does this card work with both Windows and Linux operating systems?
Yes, the StarTech.com 21050-PC-SERIAL-CARD is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems. The card uses standard serial drivers that are included with most modern OS distributions, though specific drivers may be available from StarTech.com for optimal performance. The compatibility covers various Windows versions and mainstream Linux distributions commonly used in professional environments.
What is COM port retention and why is it important?
COM port retention ensures that the operating system assigns consistent COM port numbers to each serial port across system reboots. This feature is crucial in industrial and commercial applications where software is configured to communicate with specific COM ports. Without retention, devices might receive different COM assignments after each reboot, requiring manual reconfiguration of connected equipment and software.
Can this card be installed in small form factor computers?
Yes, the card includes low-profile brackets that allow installation in small form factor systems with limited vertical clearance. The card itself measures only 0.70 inches in height, making it compatible with compact chassis designs. The package contains both standard and low-profile brackets, providing flexibility for various computer case configurations without requiring additional purchases.
What is the maximum data transfer rate supported by this serial card?
Each port on this PCIe serial card supports data transfer rates up to 921.6 Kbps (kilobits per second). This speed is sufficient for most serial device applications, including industrial equipment, point-of-sale peripherals, and legacy communication devices. The 16C1050 UART chipset manages the serial communication with 256-byte FIFO buffers to optimize data flow and reduce CPU utilization during transfers.
What warranty and support does StarTech.com provide for this product?
StarTech.com backs this PCIe serial card with a 2-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects and component failures. Additionally, the product includes free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance, providing access to support specialists during business hours. This comprehensive support package ensures professional users have resources for installation, configuration, and troubleshooting throughout the product's lifecycle.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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