StarTech.com 8-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card

The StarTech.com 8-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card is the no-compromise solution for adding robust, multi-device serial connectivity to a modern desktop or workstation. In today’s environment, many critical peripherals—industrial controllers, barcode printers, POS systems, lab instruments, CNC machines, and legacy equipment—still rely on RS-232 signaling. This PCIe to Serial DB9 controller card delivers eight independent RS-232 ports in a single, compact expansion card, enabling you to manage a fleet of serial devices without juggling multiple USB adapters or external USB-to-serial hubs. Built around a stable UART solution and engineered with real-world reliability in mind, the card ensures steady data transfer, predictable timing, and clean signal integrity across all eight channels—an essential requirement when managing automated test benches, data acquisition systems, or point-of-sale environments. The card leverages the 16C1050 UART architecture, a design choice that emphasizes dependable, multi-channel performance. With eight RS-232 ports, you can configure each channel to communicate with different devices at varied baud rates, parity, and stop-bit settings, all while maintaining consistent performance. The result is a versatile expansion that scales with your needs—from small lab setups to more complex automation rigs. The built-in 15kV ESD protection protects both the adapter and connected peripherals in environments prone to static discharge, reducing the risk of equipment damage during deployment, maintenance, or field service. Windows and Linux driver support ensures broad compatibility for professional environments, from desktop workstations to servers and test benches. This card is designed to be straightforward to install and easy to manage, so you can focus on your work rather than wrestling with drivers or compatibility issues. Whether you’re modernizing an existing system or building an automation workstation from scratch, the StarTech 8-Port PCIe RS232 card brings dependable serial connectivity where you need it most. The eight DB9 ports share a common, durable reinforcement on the rear bracket, making cable management cleaner and more reliable in busy workspaces. In short, this card offers a stable, scalable, and cost-effective path to eight fully featured RS-232 serial interfaces in a single PCIe slot, backed by StarTech’s reputation for quality and extensive OS support.

• Eight RS-232 DB9 ports on a single PCIe card provide eight independent serial channels, allowing you to connect a wide range of devices—industrial controllers, barcode printers, lab instruments, POS peripherals, and legacy equipment—without juggling adapters or multiple cards.
• PCIe to Serial bridge delivers a high-bandwidth, low-latency path for serial communication, with reliable channel isolation so each port can operate without interference from the others, even in demanding, multi-device setups.
• 16C1050 UART-based design supports robust, multi-port serial communication with standard RS-232 signaling, offering dependable data integrity across all eight channels and easy per-port configuration via your OS drivers or software utilities.
• 15kV ESD protection guards the card and connected equipment from electrostatic discharge, a valuable safeguard in factory floors, service labs, and other environments where devices connect and disconnect frequently.
• Windows and Linux driver support ensures broad compatibility for mainstream workstations, servers, and compute environments, with streamlined installation, ongoing driver updates, and documented guidance from StarTech.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 8-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card

• Ports: 8 RS-232 DB9 serial ports
• Interface: PCI Express to serial controller card
• UART: 16C1050
• ESD protection: 15kV
• Operating system support: Windows and Linux
• Form factor: PCI Express add-on card for desktop systems

How to Install StarTech.com 8-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card

• Power down your computer, unplug the power cord, and open the chassis to gain access to the motherboard and expansion slots.
• Identify an available PCI Express slot (preferably PCIe x1 or higher) and align the card with the slot. Gently seat the card into the slot until it is firmly seated and flush with the case.
• Secure the card to the chassis with a mounting screw to prevent movement and ensure stable operation inside the system.
• Connect your eight RS-232 devices to the DB9 ports on the rear of the card using appropriate serial cables. Route cables neatly to avoid strain and interference, and label endpoints to simplify configuration.
• Power up the computer, install the matching StarTech drivers for Windows or Linux, and verify port operation. Use your preferred terminal program or software to configure per-port settings (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, and flow control) according to the requirements of each connected device.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What operating systems are supported?
  A: StarTech provides drivers for Windows and Linux, ensuring broad compatibility with common workstation and server environments.
• Q: Is external power required?
  A: No. The card is powered through the PCI Express slot and does not require an additional power connector.
• Q: Can I use all eight ports simultaneously with different devices?
  A: Yes. Each port operates independently, allowing you to run multiple serial devices at their respective settings and speeds.
• Q: Is the card suitable for industrial or field environments?
  A: The 15kV ESD protection and rugged UART design make it well-suited for demanding environments, including labs, manufacturing floors, and automation setups where serial devices are in frequent use.
• Q: Where can I obtain drivers and manuals?
  A: Drivers, manuals, and product support are available from StarTech’s official website. Search for the exact product name to access the correct OS versions and documentation.