SABRENT CB-DB9P

SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable Instruction Manual

Model: CB-DB9P

Brand: SABRENT

1. Product Overview

The SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable provides a seamless connection between modern USB ports and traditional RS-232 serial devices. This adapter is designed for broad compatibility across various operating systems, making it a versatile tool for connecting legacy hardware to contemporary computers.

Key features include:

  • Provides the connection between USB and the traditional RS-232 serial port.
  • Supported OS: Windows 2000/ME/98SE, Windows XP (32/64-bit), Windows Vista (32/64-bit), Windows 7 (32/64-bit), Windows 8/8.1 (32/64-bit), Windows 10 and higher (32/64-bit), Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, Linux 2.4 or above.
  • Easy to setup: Plug & Play - Simply plug your device into the adapter and the adapter into your PC or Mac.
  • COM ports and Baud rates can be modified to desired set up.
  • This product comes with LIFETIME manufacturer warranty.
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial DB9 RS232 Converter Cable

Figure 1.1: SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial DB9 RS232 Converter Cable.

2. Setup Instructions

The SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable is designed for simple plug-and-play installation on most supported operating systems. Follow these steps to set up your device:

  1. Connect the Serial Device: Connect the DB9 (9-pin) end of the converter cable to the serial port of your peripheral device (e.g., modem, network switch, printer, PLC controller).
  2. Connect to Computer: Plug the USB-A end of the converter cable into an available USB 2.0 (or higher) port on your computer (PC or Mac).
  3. Driver Installation:
    • For most modern Windows (10 and higher) and Linux distributions, drivers will install automatically upon connection.
    • For older Windows versions (2000/ME/98SE, XP, Vista, 7, 8/8.1) and Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, you may need to install drivers from the included CD or download them from the official SABRENT website.
    • Note: Some users have reported needing to manually install drivers, especially for certain Mac OS versions. Ensure you download the correct driver for your specific operating system and chipset if automatic installation fails.
  4. Verify Installation: After connecting, check your computer's Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (Mac) to confirm that the serial port is recognized and functioning correctly. The device should appear as a COM port (Windows) or a TTY device (Linux/Mac).
Easy Installation diagram showing USB-A connector and logos for Windows, Linux, and macOS

Figure 2.1: Easy Installation - Compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS.

Universal RS-232 Compatibility with icons for Network Switches, Printers, Modems, and PLC Controllers

Figure 2.2: Universal RS-232 Compatibility with various devices.

3. Operating Instructions

Once the SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable is successfully installed, you can begin using it with your serial devices. The cable facilitates communication between your computer and the connected serial peripheral.

3.1. Accessing the Serial Port

The serial port created by the adapter can be accessed through various terminal emulation programs or custom software applications that require serial communication. Examples include PuTTY, Tera Term, HyperTerminal (Windows), or Minicom (Linux).

3.2. Modifying COM Port and Baud Rates

The COM port number (on Windows) and Baud Rate settings can be adjusted to match the requirements of your specific serial device. This is typically done through your operating system's Device Manager (Windows) or the settings within your terminal emulation software.

  • Windows: Go to Device Manager > Ports (COM & LPT) > USB Serial Port (COMX). Right-click, select Properties, then go to the Port Settings tab to adjust Baud Rate, Data Bits, Parity, Stop Bits, and Flow Control.
  • Linux: The device will typically be /dev/ttyUSB0 or similar. Settings can be configured using stty command or within your terminal application.
  • Mac OS: The device will appear under /dev/cu.usbserial-XXXX or similar. Settings are usually managed within the application you are using for serial communication.
Laptop connected to a serial device via the USB to Serial adapter, illustrating high-speed data transfer.

Figure 3.1: Achieving fast and reliable communication.

4. Maintenance

The SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable requires minimal maintenance. To ensure optimal performance and longevity:

  • Storage: Store the cable in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the cable and connectors. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
  • Handling: Do not bend the cable excessively or apply undue force to the connectors, as this can damage internal wiring or pins.
  • Connection Integrity: Ensure the DB9 connector's hex nuts are securely fastened to the serial device to prevent accidental disconnections and ensure a stable signal.
Close-up of the DB9 serial connector with blue electrical currents indicating a reliable connection.

Figure 4.1: Reliable connection of the DB9 serial interface.

Diagram showing the internal structure of the cable with flexible PVC jacket, inner and outer shield, thick power cable, and shielded ground cable.

Figure 4.2: Internal construction for error-free data transmission.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using your SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Device not recognized / Driver not installing.Missing or incorrect drivers; OS incompatibility; faulty USB port.
  • Ensure you are running a supported OS (Windows 2000/ME/98SE, XP, Vista, 7, 8/8.1, 10+, Mac OS X 10.6+, Linux 2.4+).
  • Download and install the latest drivers from the SABRENT website.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Restart your computer after driver installation.
Communication errors with serial device.Incorrect COM port or Baud Rate settings; loose connection.
  • Verify that the COM port and Baud Rate settings in your software match those of the connected serial device.
  • Ensure the DB9 connector's hex nuts are tightened securely.
  • Check the serial device for proper functionality independently.
Slow data transfer.USB 1.1 port usage; high system load.
  • Connect the cable to a USB 2.0 or higher port for optimal speed.
  • Close unnecessary applications to reduce system load.
Not working on Mac.Driver issues, especially with newer macOS versions or Apple Silicon.
  • Ensure you have the latest macOS compatible drivers from the SABRENT website.
  • Check System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General to allow kernel extensions from "Prolific Technology Inc." or "SABRENT" if prompted.
  • For Apple Silicon Macs, ensure the driver explicitly supports the architecture.

6. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Product Model NumberCB-DB9P
BrandSABRENT
Connector TypeUSB Type A to DB9 (9 Pin) RS-232 Serial
Cable TypeSerial Converter Cable
Supported OSWindows 2000/ME/98SE, XP (32/64-bit), Vista (32/64-bit), 7 (32/64-bit), 8/8.1 (32/64-bit), 10 and higher (32/64-bit), Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, Linux 2.4 or above.
Special FeatureHigh Speed (USB Full Speed Communication), Bus Powered
Product Dimensions7.36 x 5.16 x 0.74 inches
Item Weight3.21 ounces
Included in BoxUSB to Serial Adapter, Driver CD (may not be included with all packages or may be outdated)
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial Cable Adapter packaging with cable and driver CD

Figure 6.1: Product packaging and included items.

7. Warranty and Support

The SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable comes with a LIFETIME manufacturer warranty. For technical support, driver downloads, or warranty claims, please visit the official SABRENT website or contact their customer service directly.

Official SABRENT Website: www.sabrent.com

© 2025 SABRENT. All rights reserved.

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