StarTech.com 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card: Dual Port PCIe to RS232 (DB9) Serial Card

The StarTech.com 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card is a purpose-built solution for bridging the gap between modern computer systems and legacy serial devices. Designed for reliability in industrial, laboratory, retail, and professional environments, this dual-port PCIe to RS232 (DB9) card delivers robust serial communication with industry-standard 16C1050 UART technology. It takes advantage of a PCI Express interface to provide high-speed connections while maintaining broad compatibility with both Windows and Linux operating systems. Whether you’re reconnecting point-of-sale peripherals, industrial controllers, or lab instruments, this card offers a seamless path to dependable serial connectivity without sacrificing system resources or stability. The COM Retention feature keeps port assignments steady across reboots and driver changes, minimizing software reconfiguration and downtime. With two independent RS-232 ports, you can connect two devices concurrently, simplifying wiring layouts and reducing the need for additional expansion cards. The result is a versatile, enterprise-grade solution that reduces complexity and delivers consistent, predictable serial performance in a compact, easy-to-install form factor.

• Dual RS-232 ports on a single PCIe card provide independent, simultaneous connections for two serial devices, enabling streamlined configurations for point-of-sale terminals, CNC machines, sensors, and more without occupying extra PCI slots.
• 16C1050 UART per port delivers reliable serial performance with broad baud-rate support, robust error handling, and improved data integrity for high-speed or long-distance RS-232 communication.
• COM Retention for stable port mappings ensures your serial port assignments stay consistent after reboots, driver updates, or power cycles, making software configurations simpler and more predictable.
• Windows and Linux compatibility offers broad, enterprise-grade driver support so administrators and developers can deploy serial devices across mixed environments with confidence.
• Easy integration with PCIe and a concise form factor fits standard motherboards and servers, enabling straightforward installation in most desktop or rack-mounted systems while leaving room for other expansion cards and peripherals.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card

• Get this information from the "specifications" section of the product from https://ec.synnex.com/ using product "UPC" or "SKU" as reference

How to Install StarTech.com 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card

• Power down your computer and unplug it from the wall outlet. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge and open the case to access the motherboard.
• Identify a spare PCIe slot (x1 or larger) on the motherboard that is unobstructed and capable of accommodating a PCIe add-in card.
• Firmly insert the StarTech.com 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card into the PCIe slot until it is seated securely. If a retention clip is present, ensure it engages properly.
• Secure the card bracket to the chassis with a screw and reconnect any cables that may have been moved during installation. Reassemble the case if you opened it for access.
• Power on the system, install the appropriate drivers for Windows or Linux, and verify that two COM ports appear in your device manager or serial utility. Configure software to use COM1 and COM2 (or your retained port numbers) for connected devices.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What operating systems are supported? A: The StarTech.com 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card provides driver support for Windows and Linux, enabling broad compatibility across desktop and server environments. For the latest versions and specific kernel support, consult StarTech's official driver pages.
• Q: How many devices can I connect? A: The card offers two independent RS-232 ports, allowing two serial devices to operate concurrently. This is ideal for multi-device applications such as inventory scanners, modems, or microcontroller interfaces.
• Q: What is COM Retention? A: COM Retention preserves your serial port assignments across system reboots and driver updates, reducing the need to reconfigure applications each time the system starts.
• Q: Is any special hardware required beyond the PCIe card? A: No additional power supply is typically needed beyond what the PCIe slot provides, and standard RS-232 DB9 cables are used to connect devices. Always verify your system's power capacity when installing multiple cards.
• Q: Do I need to configure baud rates or settings manually? A: Basic installation usually auto-detects, but for reliable operation you may configure each port's baud rate, parity, stop bits, and flow control in your serial software or via provided drivers.