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Product Features
Product Overview
The StarTech.com 1P3FP-USB-SERIAL USB to Serial Adapter Cable is a dedicated data transfer adapter designed to bridge modern USB-equipped systems with legacy serial devices. This 3-foot cable integrates a USB 2.0 Type A male connector on one end and a standard DB9 male RS-232 serial connector on the other, enabling straightforward connectivity for industrial, point-of-sale, networking, and diagnostic equipment.
Engineered for reliability, the adapter features a robust screw lock mechanism on the serial end to secure the connection against vibration or accidental disconnection. It supports efficient data transfer, making it a practical solution for environments where stable serial communication is required alongside contemporary USB hosts.
This section brings together practical product details such as Connector Type on First End, Connector on First End Details, Connector Type on Second End, Country of Origin, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
Technical Overview
This adapter cable utilizes a Prolific integrated circuit to facilitate the USB-to-serial conversion, ensuring compatibility and stable performance across a wide range of operating systems that support standard COM port emulation. The USB 2.0 interface provides sufficient bandwidth for typical serial data rates, while the DB9 connector adheres to the RS-232 standard for serial communication.
The 3-foot cable length offers flexibility in setup, allowing devices to be positioned conveniently without strain. The screw lock feature enhances connection integrity, which is critical in industrial or mobile applications where cables may be subject to movement.
This section brings together practical product details such as Connector Type on First End, Connector on First End Details, Connector Type on Second End, Country of Origin, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
Key Product Advantages
This adapter cable simplifies connectivity challenges by providing a direct, hardware-based solution for integrating serial devices into modern USB-based systems. Its design prioritizes durability and reliable performance in diverse operational settings.
Secure Connection
The integrated screw lock ensures a physically secure attachment to the serial port, reducing the risk of data interruption due to loose connections.
- Prevents accidental disconnection
- Suitable for vibration-prone environments
Legacy Compatibility
Enables continued use of RS-232 serial devices, such as older printers, scanners, CNC machines, and console ports on network equipment, with contemporary computers that lack native serial ports.
- Extends lifespan of serial hardware
- Avoids costly device replacement
Deployment / Use Cases
The StarTech.com USB to Serial Adapter Cable is deployed in scenarios where legacy serial equipment must interface with modern computing platforms. It is commonly used in industrial automation, retail POS systems, scientific instrumentation, and network infrastructure management.
For example, IT professionals can use this cable to configure routers, switches, or firewalls via console ports. In manufacturing environments, it connects PLCs or diagnostic tools to laptops for programming and monitoring. The reliable build and secure locking make it suitable for both fixed installations and field service applications.
Network Equipment Configuration
Provides a direct serial connection for accessing the console port on routers, switches, and other network devices for initial setup, troubleshooting, or recovery when network access is unavailable.
Industrial Device Interface
Facilitates communication with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), barcode scanners, scales, and other serial-based industrial equipment from standard USB-enabled computers.
Highlights
- Converts USB 2.0 to DB9 RS-232 serial for legacy device connectivity
- 3-foot cable length allows flexible placement between devices
- Screw lock mechanism secures the serial connection against disconnection
- Prolific IC ensures reliable data transfer and broad OS compatibility
- USB 2.0 Type A male to DB9 male connector configuration
- Ideal for industrial, networking, POS, and diagnostic applications
- 3-year limited warranty provides long-term support assurance
- Maintains stable serial communication with modern USB hosts
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 1P3FP-USB-SERIAL |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | USB to Serial Adapter |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | Data Transfer Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Connector Type on First End | USB 2.0 Type A - Male |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x USB 2.0 Type A - Male |
| Connector Type on Second End | DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Male |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x 9-pin DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Male |
| Features | Screw Lock |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 3 Year |
FAQ
What devices can I connect with this USB to Serial Adapter Cable?
This cable connects modern computers with USB ports to legacy devices that use DB9 RS-232 serial ports. Common applications include networking equipment like routers and switches for console access, industrial devices such as PLCs and barcode scanners, point-of-sale systems, scientific instruments, and older printers or scanners that require serial communication.
Does this adapter require special drivers to work?
Yes, the adapter uses a Prolific integrated circuit that typically requires driver installation on the host computer to create a virtual COM port. Most modern operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, have built-in support or available drivers for Prolific chipsets, ensuring broad compatibility. Always check the manufacturer's website for the latest drivers specific to your OS version.
What is the purpose of the screw lock feature on this cable?
The screw lock mechanism physically secures the DB9 connector to the serial port using thumbscrews. This prevents the cable from accidentally disconnecting due to vibration, movement, or cable strain, which is crucial in industrial, mobile, or rack-mounted environments where stable connections are essential for uninterrupted data transfer and device operation.
Is this cable compatible with USB 3.0 or USB-C ports?
The cable has a USB 2.0 Type A male connector, which is physically compatible with USB 3.0 Type A ports and will operate at USB 2.0 speeds. It is not directly compatible with USB-C ports without an additional USB-A to USB-C adapter. The data transfer performance is suitable for standard serial communication rates, which are well within USB 2.0 capabilities.
What is the maximum data transfer speed supported by this adapter?
The adapter supports serial communication at standard RS-232 data rates, typically up to 115.2 kbps, which is sufficient for most legacy serial devices like console ports, industrial controls, and basic peripherals. The USB 2.0 interface provides ample bandwidth for these speeds, ensuring reliable data flow without bottlenecks for serial applications.
Can I use this cable with a virtual machine or remote access setup?
Yes, the adapter appears as a virtual COM port on the host operating system, which can often be passed through to virtual machines or accessed remotely via terminal services. This allows configuration and management of serial devices from within virtualized environments or over network connections, provided the virtualization platform or remote access software supports COM port redirection.
What refresh rate or brightness details are available?
Display-oriented products are best judged through screen, connectivity, and installation specifications. Those facts help buyers confirm visual fit, mounting flexibility, and deployment suitability more clearly than generic summary text.
What input or connectivity options are listed?
Connectivity options include 1 x USB 2.0 Type A - Male, helping the product integrate into common office or home setups.