IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter (UC232A) provides an external serial (DB-9 male) Plug-n-Play connection for computers, notebooks, and handheld computing devices that support USB. This adapter facilitates high-quality serial connections for devices such as PDAs, digital cameras, modems, and ISDN terminal adapters, supporting data transfer rates over 230Kbps. It makes the USB interface transparent to serial peripherals, simplifying connectivity and eliminating traditional serial port setup complexities. The device also supports energy-saving suspend and resume operations.

Key Features:

• Full Compliance with USB specification v1.1
• Supports the RS-232 Serial interface
• Supports automatic handshake mode
• Over 230 Kbps data transfer rate
• Supports Remote wakeup and power management
• Provides a 96 byte buffer for each upstream and downstream data transfer
• Easy installation - no software required

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer.

• 1 x IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter
• 1 x User Manual (this document)

3. System Requirements

• Available USB port (USB 1.1 or higher)
• Operating System: Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP (or later with built-in USB-to-serial support)
• Compatible serial device (e.g., PDA, digital camera, modem, ISDN terminal adapter)

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Hardware Installation

1. Locate an available USB port on your computer.
2. Connect the USB Type-A plug of the IOGEAR GHPU01 adapter into the USB port on your computer.
3. Connect your serial device (e.g., PDA, digital camera) to the DB-9 male serial port on the IOGEAR GHPU01 adapter.
4. Ensure both your computer and the serial device are powered on.

4.2 Driver Installation (No Software Required)

The IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter is designed for easy Plug-n-Play installation, requiring no additional software drivers for most compatible operating systems. Upon connecting the adapter, your system should automatically recognize and configure the device.

Image: The IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter, showing its USB connector on one end and the DB-9 serial port on the other, ready for connection to a computer and a peripheral device.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the adapter is successfully installed and recognized by your operating system, it functions as a transparent serial port. Any software or application designed to communicate with a serial device can now use the virtual serial port created by the adapter.

5.1 Using with Serial Devices

1. Ensure your serial device is properly connected to the adapter's DB-9 port.
2. Open the application on your computer that requires communication with the serial device.
3. Within the application's settings, select the appropriate COM port assigned to the IOGEAR GHPU01 adapter. This COM port number can typically be found in your operating system's Device Manager under "Ports (COM & LPT)".
4. Configure the serial communication parameters (e.g., baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, flow control) within your application to match those of your serial device. The adapter supports automatic handshake mode.
5. Initiate communication as per your application's instructions.

5.2 Power Management

The adapter supports remote wakeup and power management features. This allows the adapter and connected devices to enter low-power states when not in use and resume quickly when needed, contributing to energy efficiency.

6. Maintenance

The IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter requires minimal maintenance.

• Keep the adapter clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid exposing the adapter to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to open or repair the adapter yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel for any repairs.
• Ensure cables are not bent sharply or subjected to excessive strain to prevent damage to the connectors.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your IOGEAR GHPU01 USB to Serial Adapter, please refer to the following common solutions:

7.1 Device Not Recognized

• Check USB Connection: Ensure the adapter is firmly plugged into a working USB port on your computer. Try a different USB port.
• Check Serial Connection: Verify that your serial device is securely connected to the adapter's DB-9 port.
• Restart Computer: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve recognition issues.
• Device Manager: Open your computer's Device Manager (Windows) and check under "Ports (COM & LPT)" or "Universal Serial Bus controllers" for any unrecognized devices or devices with error symbols.

7.2 Communication Errors

• COM Port Selection: Confirm that your application is configured to use the correct COM port assigned to the adapter.
• Serial Settings: Double-check that the baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, and flow control settings in your application match those of your serial device.
• Device Compatibility: Ensure your serial device is compatible with RS-232 standards.

7.3 Slow Data Transfer

• USB Port: While the adapter is USB 1.1 compliant, using it with a USB 2.0 or 3.0 port will not improve its maximum data transfer rate beyond 230 Kbps. Ensure your computer's USB port is functioning correctly.
• Cable Quality: Use high-quality USB and serial cables.

If problems persist, contact IOGEAR technical support for further assistance.

8. Specifications

Note: Product dimensions and item weight listed may refer to packaging or shipping weight.

9. Warranty and Support

IOGEAR products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official IOGEAR website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

For the latest drivers, FAQs, and support resources, visit: www.iogear.com