StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub - Review

In today's digital age, connecting industrial grade equipment to various devices can be a challenge, especially when dealing with different types of serial ports. This is where the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub USB to RS232/RS485/RS422 Adapter steps in. As a product reviewer, I've had the opportunity to test this industrial USB 2.0 to DB9 serial converter hub, and I must say, it has left me impressed.

Firstly, the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub is built to be rugged and reliable. The industrial metal casing not only offers a durable build, but it also adds a touch of professionalism wherever it is mounted. The product also features IP30 rating, which is proof that it can operate in harsh environments with dust, dirt, and other contaminants. Moreover, all ports come with locking connectors that ensure cables remain attached, even when they are tugged or pulled.

One of the best features of this industrial USB to serial adapter hub is that it adds eight RS-232/422/485 ports and one USB 2.0 port. This means you can connect multiple devices like barcode scanners, printers, and other serial-based equipment easily. Additionally, the ports can be individually configured to RS232, RS422, or RS485 (2-wire/4-wire) at baud rates of up to 921.6Kbps. This flexibility makes it easy to handle different types of equipment with varying serial ports.

Installation is also a breeze with the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub. It comes with built-in mounting ears and DIN brackets, which allow it to be securely mounted on a desk, wall, or DIN rail. Furthermore, a 6ft (1.8m) screw-lock USB cable is included, and this provides ease of connectivity to the hub. The product can be powered with either the 12V screw-locking power adapter or the 5V USB input. Each serial port (pin 9) can be set to 5V, 12V (power adapter required), or 0V, giving the flexibility to handle different types of equipment.

As for compatibility, the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub can be used with current and legacy Windows, Linux, macOS, and embedded platforms. This makes it a viable option for virtually any type of equipment that uses serial ports.

In terms of protection, the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub USB offers 15kV ESD surge protection (level 4). This ensures that your equipment remains safe from any electrical surges that might occur during operation. The product is designed to be reliable, and so far, it has exceeded expectations from previous customers who have given it a 5-star rating.

While there are some limitations, such as the need for an external power supply for certain uses, the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub USB to RS232/RS485/RS422 Adapter is an excellent option for anyone looking for a high-quality serial converter hub. It is rugged, reliable, and offers a comprehensive solution for all serial port requirements.

In conclusion, the StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub USB to RS232/RS485/RS422 Adapter is a top-of-the-line serial converter hub that delivers on its promises. It offers a comprehensive solution for different types of equipment with varying serial ports; it is built ruggedly and offers a professional look with a metal casing and locking connectors on all ports. The product is easy to install and can be powered with either a 12V power adapter or 5V USB input. It also offers protection against electrical surges, making it a reliable option for industrial-grade equipment. Finally, it is widely compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and embedded platforms, making it the go-to solution for serial port requirements.

StarTech.com 8 Port Serial Hub

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