Serial data over USB or ethernet?

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Metrocom

6 posts

Wannabe Geek

#128732 21-Aug-2013 17:11

Gidday,
I use the serial data port on my laptop for some of the older never say die Samsung PABXs out there. At least I did, until my serial data port slowly passed away. It started with the loss of any input, i.e. I could see the data, just not input any. Then that progressed to not even being able to see any. I have asked laptop repair companies if they would have a go, but when the answer is "What's serial data?" I can't bring myself to hand over my bread winner.
Currently using a docking station which is quite bulky, but does the job.
I've been told that the USB adaptors aren't really cutting it, and I see there are ethernet ones too. Does anyone have any experience, or can they recommend a trusted repairer?

chevrolux

4962 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 2638
Inactive user

#882302 21-Aug-2013 17:18

Yup those dam DCS's just won't die will they. Or the SVMi cards.
I have a USB-Serial adapter which works just fine connecting to anything that requires a serial console.

Other option is just get all your clients in to nice new OfficeServ gear =D

RunningMan

9184 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 4833

#882318 21-Aug-2013 17:35

Can't find the exact one, but bought one very similar to this a few years ago - it's only used for occasional use, but never had problem with it.

http://pbtech.co.nz/index.php?z=p&p=ADPSTL12362&name=STLab-U-224-USB-1.1-to-DB9-Serial-A-RS232-ADAPTER-

Metrocom

6 posts

Wannabe Geek

#882322 21-Aug-2013 17:38

Awesome news, thanks guys!
Better have a closer look at that FUG...

raytaylor

4076 posts

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Trusted

#882346 21-Aug-2013 18:33

You dont want an ethernet one-
An ethernet serial adapter needs an ip address, and requires a bit of setup. We use them for permanant installations for things like remote monitoring of UPS's and weather stations.

There is nothing wrong with USB ones.
The issue seems to be that they got a bad name as windows will typically assign a usb serial adapter to com5/6/7+ and most older applications will only allow you to select up to com4

So you just
1) Plug it in
2) Go into device manager, right click on the usb serial device and set the com port to 4
3) Open your PBX programming application and set it to talk on com4 - start programming and enjoy

Honestly I dont know of any device that actually wont work over a usb serial adapter.

Yes I do understand the annoying feeling when you take it to an IT shop and they have no idea what an RS232 plug even looks like.

Ray Taylor

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