Digitus USB-C to RS232 Serial Adapter (Model DA-70166) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the Digitus USB-C to RS232 Serial Adapter, Model DA-70166. This adapter facilitates data exchange between a computer equipped with a USB Type-C port and peripheral devices utilizing a serial RS232 interface (COM port). It is designed to bridge the gap between modern hardware lacking traditional serial ports and legacy serial devices such as weather stations, sensors, machine controls, modems, and ISDN adapters.

Image 1.1: The Digitus USB-C to RS232 Serial Adapter, Model DA-70166.

2. Package Contents

• USB-C to Serial Adapter
• Product support CD-ROM with drivers

3. Features

• Connects serial devices to a PC via USB Type-C.
• Enables data exchange between a PC with a USB port and serial peripherals (e.g., machine controls, modems, sensors).
• Integrated USB-C connection cable.
• Individual configuration via the FTDI/FT232RL chipset.
• Backward compatibility with USB 1.1.
• Supports remote wake-up and power management.
• Adjustable baud rates between 75 bit/s and 128,000 bit/s.
• Power supply directly via the USB port; no separate power supply required.

Image 3.1: Diagram illustrating the RS232 and USB Type-C connectors of the adapter.

4. Setup & Installation

4.1. Physical Connection

1. Connect the USB Type-C end of the adapter to an available USB Type-C port on your computer (laptop, ultrabook, or MacBook).
2. Connect the D-SUB 9 (RS232) end of the adapter to the serial port of your peripheral device. Ensure the screws on the D-SUB 9 connector are tightened to secure the connection.

Image 4.1: The adapter connecting a laptop to a serial device.

4.2. Driver Installation

The adapter features an FTDI/FT232RL chipset. For most modern operating systems (Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS X, and Linux), drivers are often installed automatically upon connection (Plug & Play). If automatic installation does not occur, or if you encounter issues, please use the included product support CD-ROM to install the necessary drivers. Alternatively, drivers can be downloaded from the official FTDI website.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the adapter is physically connected and drivers are installed, your computer should recognize the serial port. You can then use appropriate software to communicate with your serial peripheral device. The adapter supports customizable baud rates between 75 bit/s and 128,000 bit/s, allowing flexibility for various devices. It also supports remote wake-up and power management features.

Image 5.1: Example of a one-to-one connection between a laptop and a label printer.

6. Compatibility

The Digitus USB-C to RS232 Serial Adapter is compatible with a wide range of operating systems and serial devices:

6.1. Supported Operating Systems

• Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP
• Mac OS X
• Linux

6.2. Compatible Devices

The adapter is suitable for connecting various serial peripherals, including but not limited to:

• Weather stations
• Sensors
• Machine controls
• Set-top boxes
• Game consoles
• PDAs
• Scanners
• Modems
• ISDN adapters
• Label writers
• Barcode scanners
• Cash registers
• Printers

Image 6.1: The adapter's compatibility with a range of serial devices.

7. Specifications

8. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Recognized: Ensure the adapter is securely connected to both your computer's USB-C port and the serial peripheral. Verify that the necessary drivers are installed. Try connecting to a different USB-C port or restarting your computer.
• Communication Errors: Check the baud rate and other serial port settings (e.g., data bits, parity, stop bits) in your software to ensure they match the requirements of your peripheral device.
• Intermittent Connection: Ensure the D-SUB 9 connector screws are tightened to prevent accidental disconnection. Avoid excessive bending or pulling on the cable.
• Driver Issues: If the included CD-ROM drivers do not work, visit the FTDI website for the latest drivers compatible with your operating system.

9. Related Product Videos

The following videos demonstrate the general functionality and use of USB to RS232 serial adapters. While they may feature different models or brands, the core principles of connection and operation are similar.

10. Warranty & Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Digitus website. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.