I am developing a project that can interface with a PC, but the data output is in RS232 format.
What I want to do is convert that RS232 output into a USB output, so that I do not have to use any kind of converter to connect my project to my PC.
Any ideas on where to start?
I will be splitting the capabilities of my project into individual modules, for two purposes: 1) to increase my learning opportunities, and 2) to make it easier to upgrade the capabilities of my project without having to change the entire end-product at the same time.
Obviously, one of the modules will be Data Output, where information generated from other parts of the project will be gathered for sending to an outside object ( ie, my PC ). The IC I am using outputs that data in an RS232 format.
Hence the need to convert it to USB output.
Thanks!
Hi,
Welcome to the forum.
Please read the first post in any forum entitled how to use this forum.
http://forum.arduino.cc/index.php/topic,148850.0.html
The easiest and convenient way is to use a USB to RS232 converter, as that is exactly what you want.
I will be splitting the capabilities of my project into individual modules, for two purposes: 1) to increase my learning opportunities, and 2) to make it easier to upgrade the capabilities of my project without having to change the entire end-product at the same time.
You may have to explain your projects application for us to understand this bit, I can see the learning opportunities but don't understand the second bit.
I see your aim is to connect to a PC and a standard converter will do it, unless you want to use the RS232 data for other uses.
An Arduino can do the conversion for you and still give you access to the RS232 data for readouts or independent data storage.
Just remember the RS232 on the Arduino is TTL and will need a level converter IC such as a MAX232.
Tom......
Hi,
This can be confusing..
"RS-232 Format". Hmmm.. What do you mean by that??
RS-232 is a physical layer standard that defines the voltage levels and coordination signals between two devices. See Wikipedia HERE:
As Wikipedia notes:
The standard does not define such elements as the character encoding, the framing of characters, or error detection protocols. The character format and transmission bit rate are set by the serial port hardware which may also contain circuits to convert the internal logic levels to RS-232 compatible signal levels. The standard does not define bit rates for transmission, except that it says it is intended for bit rates lower than 20,000 bits per second.
So what do YOU mean by "RS-232"? Where are you getting your information?
It is very possible that what you are working with is actually "Serial Data Communications" which has signal levels that are 5 Volts (Not the + and - 12 Volts of RS-232). And the signals may be "Serial ASCII" which defines things like Start Bits, Stop Bits, Optional Parity Bits and etc. This is NOT part of the RS-232 standard.
Tell us more about what you are actually doing...