StarTech. com ICUSB232PRO USB to Serial Adapter - Prolific PL-2303 - RS-232 DB-9 Male to USB 2. 0 Female - COM Port Retention - 1 ft Cable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This USB to serial adapter converts USB 2.0 signals to RS-232 serial communication, featuring a DB-9 male connector on the serial end and a USB Type A female connector on the USB end. It operates without external power, drawing power directly from the USB port, and includes dual buffers for efficient upstream and downstream data transfer.
The adapter supports remote wake-up and power management control, allowing for energy-efficient operation in managed IT setups. Automatic handshake mode simplifies configuration by handling flow control automatically, reducing the need for manual settings in compatible applications.
Relevant factors for this section include Connector Type on First End, Connector on First End Details, Connector Type on Second End, Color Family. 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
The ICUSB232PRO adapter eliminates the need for dedicated serial ports on newer computers, extending the lifespan of valuable serial-based equipment. Its COM port retention feature ensures that device assignments remain stable after system reboots, critical for automated processes and server environments.
Reliable Connectivity
Maintains consistent serial communication with dual buffering and automatic handshake support, reducing data errors in continuous operations.
- Dual buffers for data integrity
- Automatic handshake mode
- USB bus-powered operation
Easy Integration
Includes a driver CD for quick installation on supported operating systems, with free lifetime technical support available for troubleshooting.
- Driver CD included
- Lifetime technical support
- TAA compliant for government use
Deployment / Use Cases
This adapter is ideal for IT professionals managing legacy hardware in corporate, industrial, or retail settings. It connects serial devices like barcode scanners, label printers, CNC machines, and console ports on networking equipment to USB-enabled computers, laptops, or servers.
Common applications include point-of-sale systems where serial receipt printers or cash drawers need integration, manufacturing environments with serial-controlled machinery, and data centers for accessing serial console ports on switches and routers. The black color and compact design make it discreet in office or rack installations.
Relevant factors for this section include Connector Type on First End, Connector on First End Details, Connector Type on Second End, Color Family. 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.
Industrial and Retail
Connect serial-based industrial equipment or retail peripherals to modern computers without replacing functional hardware.
IT Infrastructure
Access console ports on networking devices or servers from USB-equipped laptops for configuration and maintenance.
Physical Profile
The adapter features a black finish that blends with most office and IT equipment. With an approximate weight of 1.10 ounces (31.18 grams), it is lightweight and portable, suitable for field technicians or desktop use. The 1-foot cable provides enough length for flexible placement without excessive cable management.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 1.10 oz (31.18 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Weight
- 1.10 oz (31.18 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate deployment.
Highlights
- USB to RS-232 serial adapter with DB-9 male connector
- Maintains COM port assignments across system reboots
- Supports data transfer rates up to 920 kbps
- Powered by USB port, no external power adapter needed
- Dual buffers for upstream and downstream data transfer
- Supports remote wake-up and power management
- Automatic handshake mode for simplified configuration
- Includes driver CD and instruction manual
- 2-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support
- TAA compliant and environmentally friendly with RoHS/REACH/WEEE
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ICUSB232PRO |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 1 ft USB to Serial Adapter Cable w/ COM Retention |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Data Transfer Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Connector Type on First End | DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Male |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x DB-9 RS-232 Serial - Male |
| Connector Type on Second End | USB 2.0 Type A - Female |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x USB 2.0 Type A - Female |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.10 oz (31.18 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 1 ft USB to Serial Adapter Cable w/ COM Retention 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 |
| Additional Warranty Information | Free lifetime technical support |
User Manual
FAQ
What devices can I connect with this USB to serial adapter?
This adapter connects legacy RS-232 serial devices to USB ports on computers, laptops, or servers. Common devices include barcode scanners, label printers, point-of-sale terminals, industrial machinery, networking equipment console ports, and scientific instruments that use DB-9 serial interfaces.
How does COM port retention work with this adapter?
The adapter maintains the assigned COM port number across system reboots, ensuring that connected serial devices are consistently recognized by the operating system. This eliminates the need to reconfigure software or device settings after restarting the computer, which is crucial for automated systems and server environments.
What is the maximum data transfer rate supported?
The StarTech.com ICUSB232PRO supports data transfer rates up to 920 kilobits per second (kbps). This speed is sufficient for most serial communication applications, including industrial control, data logging, and peripheral connectivity, without bottlenecks in typical use cases.
Does this adapter require external power or drivers?
The adapter is powered directly from the USB port, so no external power adapter is needed. It includes a driver CD for installation on supported operating systems; drivers are typically required for the Prolific PL-2303 chipset to ensure proper functionality with Windows, macOS, or Linux systems.
What warranty and support are included?
This product comes with a 2-year limited warranty from StarTech.com, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, free lifetime technical support is provided, offering assistance with installation, troubleshooting, and compatibility questions through StarTech.com's support channels.
Is this adapter compliant with environmental and government standards?
Yes, the adapter is TAA compliant, making it suitable for government procurement in the United States. It is also environmentally friendly, meeting EU RoHS standards and complying with REACH and WEEE directives, which restrict hazardous substances and promote responsible recycling.