Serial to USB adapter

most computers don't come with a serial port. Still, so many network device require a serial connection for console management. Simple adapters (like the one in this video) can be used to add one, or more, physical serial ports to a laptop or desktop computer.
If you manage network equipment. Or, if you are a field technician, you really should have one of these USB-To-Serial adapters in your tool bag.
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9-Pin) DB-9 RS-232 Converter Cable
get one from Amazon here: amzn.to/3RECA1S

[@analogMensch]

I built myself a wireless serial server with a ESP32 and MAX3232 chips. You can telnet the device via wifi or bluetooth, and have a full functional RS232 port with hardware handshake. The device itself only have a micro USB port for power and a RJ45 for the serial. Serial port is allready rolled, so I can use every basic ethernet cable for all the cisco stuff and or a simple DB9 adapter. I got this idea cause I hated to freeze in server rooms or climbing up ladder with my laptop to reach equipment underneath the roof. This thing draws not much power, so if I have to USB port on devices, I also can run it off of a small power bank for the whole working day.

[@NetworkAdvisor]

That sounds super cool! 😎

[@k.dineshachary8390]

Nice Information...Useful Video.. Thank you.

[@aaa000777]

You should have mentioned that you need to go into Device Manager to set the baud rate of the serial adapter. You can also find out or change the Com port address.

[@NetworkAdvisor]

good point Bob. Forgot about that. Personally, I always using 9600 (cisco and devices like it) so I've never had to go in there. Not lately, anyway. Thanks for mentioning that. :-)

[@peterevans8194]

Interesting video! Problem is USB ports on laptops ect are fast going the way of the dinosaur also! May be you need to think about a USB-C to Serial port cable, if such a thing exists!

[@NetworkAdvisor]

Great point. Reminds me, my MacBook only has usb c port. 🤔

[@James_Knott]

There are USB A - USB C adapters that can be used. They sometimes come with a cell phone or tablet.

[@James_Knott]

You might also need a "null modem" for some devices.

[@NetworkAdvisor]

Excellent reminder! 😄

[@deadinside-sh]

Got one of these from cashies for an dollar or tho I have no use for if I never know it could come useful oneday

[@NetworkAdvisor]

I find I reach for this tool about once every few months to do work on legacy equipment. Thanks for commenting! :-)

[@overproof1460]

Sorry if I missed it, but does this work with Windows 11?

[@NetworkAdvisor]

Hmm. Not sure.