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Product Features
Technical Overview
This USB to serial adapter implements a complete serial port solution with hardware flow control and comprehensive configuration options. The FTDI chipset provides 256 bytes of FIFO buffering to maintain data integrity during high-speed transfers, while supporting multiple parity modes (None/Odd/Even/Mark/Space), 7 or 8 data bits, and 1 or 2 stop bits for compatibility with diverse serial protocols.
The adapter operates as a bus-powered device, drawing power directly from the USB port without requiring external power supplies. This design simplifies deployment while maintaining compatibility with USB 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 host controllers. The DB9 female connector follows RS-232 serial standards, providing the necessary handshaking signals for reliable communication with serial devices.
This section brings together practical product details such as Connector Type on First End, Connector on First End Details, Connector Type on Second End, Color Family, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
Key Product Advantages
This adapter combines technical sophistication with practical deployment advantages for IT professionals managing mixed-technology environments. The integrated cable design reduces points of failure compared to separate converter-and-cable solutions, while the FTDI chipset ensures driver stability across multiple operating system platforms.
Broad System Compatibility
Works with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems through stable FTDI drivers, supporting both current and legacy operating system versions for maximum deployment flexibility.
- Windows 10/11 compatibility
- macOS support
- Linux kernel integration
Regulatory Compliance
TAA compliance meets government procurement requirements, while RoHS 2, REACH, and WEEE certifications ensure environmental responsibility throughout the product lifecycle.
- TAA compliant
- EU RoHS certified
- REACH & WEEE compliant
Deployment / Use Cases
This USB to serial adapter serves critical connectivity functions in environments where modern computers must interface with legacy serial equipment. The null modem configuration makes it particularly valuable for direct computer-to-computer connections or for accessing console ports on networking devices.
Common applications include connecting to Cisco console ports for network device management, interfacing with industrial control systems and PLCs, accessing point-of-sale equipment configuration interfaces, and connecting to legacy scientific or medical instruments that maintain serial communication protocols. The adapter's 6-foot length provides flexibility in positioning devices while maintaining signal integrity.
Network Administration
Access console ports on routers, switches, and firewalls for initial configuration, troubleshooting, and recovery operations when network connectivity is unavailable.
Industrial Environments
Connect modern laptops to manufacturing equipment, process control systems, and monitoring devices that continue to use serial communication interfaces.
Physical Profile
The adapter features a durable black cable construction with molded strain relief at both connectors to withstand repeated plugging cycles. The compact design and lightweight 3.1-ounce profile make this adapter highly portable for field service technicians who need reliable serial connectivity across multiple locations.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 3.10 oz (87.88 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Weight
- 3.10 oz (87.88 g)
What's in the Box
This adapter ships complete with everything needed for immediate deployment, including comprehensive documentation and driver media.
Highlights
- FTDI FT232RL chipset ensures stable driver performance across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Null modem configuration resolves DTE/DCE conflicts for direct device connections
- Maximum baud rate of 921.6Kbps supports high-speed serial communication
- 6-foot (1.8m) integrated cable eliminates need for separate adapters and cables
- TAA compliant for government procurement and federal contracting
- Bus-powered design requires no external power supply
- 256-byte FIFO buffer maintains data integrity during transfers
- RoHS 2, REACH, and WEEE certified for environmental compliance
- 2-year limited warranty from StarTech.com
- Black color with durable construction for professional environments
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ICUSB232FTN |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 1 Port USB to Null Modem RS232 DB9 Serial DCE Adapter Cable with FTDI |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Data Transfer Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Connector Type on First End | DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Female |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x 9-pin DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Female |
| Connector Type on Second End | USB 2.0 Type A - Male |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x 4-pin USB 2.0 Type A - Male |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.10 oz (87.88 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 1 x USB to RS-232 Null Modem Adapter 1 x Driver CD 1 x Instruction Manual |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What is the maximum data transfer speed of this adapter?
The adapter supports baud rates up to 921.6Kbps, which represents the maximum serial communication speed for this device. This speed accommodates most legacy serial applications while maintaining data integrity through the 256-byte FIFO buffer that prevents data loss during high-speed transfers.
What does 'null modem' configuration mean for this adapter?
Null modem configuration means the adapter crosses the transmit and receive lines (TD to RD and RD to TD) along with crossing the handshaking lines. This configuration allows direct connection between two DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) devices, such as connecting a computer to another computer or to networking equipment console ports, without requiring a modem between them.
Is this adapter TAA compliant and what does that mean?
Yes, this adapter is TAA (Trade Agreements Act) compliant. TAA compliance means the product meets specific country-of-origin requirements for U.S. government procurement. This makes the adapter suitable for federal contracts, government agencies, and organizations that must adhere to TAA regulations in their purchasing decisions.
Does this adapter require external power or drivers?
The adapter is bus-powered, drawing power directly from the USB port without requiring an external power supply. While it includes a driver CD in the package, most modern operating systems will automatically install the necessary FTDI drivers, or they can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website for the latest versions and compatibility updates.
What types of devices can I connect with this USB to serial adapter?
You can connect any device with a DB9 serial port, including networking equipment console ports (Cisco, Juniper, etc.), industrial control systems, point-of-sale terminals, scientific instruments, legacy printers, and other equipment maintaining serial communication interfaces. The null modem configuration specifically supports direct computer-to-device connections common in IT administration and industrial environments.
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?
1 x 9-pin DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Female.
Does the display support VESA mounting or adjustment features?
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.