How to Select the Right USB to Serial adapter cable?

How to Select the Right USB to Serial adapter cable If you need to connect a serial device to the computer, but the computer does not have a serial port, you need a USB to serial adapter. Since there are many models, types, and manufacturers, finding the best adapter can be a challenge.

When buying a USB to RS232 serial adapter cable, you should first determine whether you require an industrial-grade adapter cable or a commercial/consumer-grade adapter cable, depending on the environment in which you plan to use the adapter. Next, you should determine whether you require an isolated or non-isolated adapter, and then you can determine whether you need an externally powered adapter, or you can use a port-powered adapter. Generally, port-powered adapters are sufficient to meet the needs of most conventional applications. Finally, you should determine whether you want to use LED lights for the TX/RX line, which is very helpful when troubleshooting, and it is strongly recommended that you do this. These 6 steps will help you make the right decision.

1. Check which protocol you need to use, RS-232, RS422, or RS485. Your application may require one or more of these protocols.
2. Determine how many COM port connections are needed, you may need multiple DB-9 ports. You may need a serial adapter with one port or a USB-to-serial adapter with 4 ports, 8 ports.
3. Where will you use the adapter, for example, home, office, or more harsh environments, such as warehouses or industrial environments?
4. What kind of device do you want to connect to? Barcode scanner, stenography, medical device, or network. These are examples of devices used by USB to serial adapter cables.
5. Do you require an adapter cable with FTDI or a Prolific control chip? Our USB to serial adapter cables have FTDI or Prolific built-in processing chips. Both chips can be used on Windows, Mac, or Linux systems. FTDI is a better chip than Prolific because it is a more powerful and system-friendly controller on 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems. It works fine, while Prolific, sometimes there may be problems during the installation process. FTDI is usually used in industrial areas.
6. For the DB9 RS232 side, you need to confirm you need Male DB9 or Female DB9 Port, and you need the cable with screw or nut model?

UtechCables has a large series of USB to serial adapter cables suitable for all applications; they all support Windows 7 to 10, including Mac OS X and Linux systems.

The following are examples of serial cables.