StarTech.com 1m USB to Serial Adapter, DB9 RS232, Prolific Chipset, Windows/Mac

StarTech.com 3ft (1m) USB to Serial Cable | COM Port Retention

The StarTech.com 3ft (1m) USB to Serial Cable with COM Port Retention, DB9 Male RS232 to USB Converter, USB to Serial Adapter for PLC/Printer/Scanner, Prolific Chipset, Windows/Mac adds a reliable RS-232 COM port to modern computers. It is designed for UK IT professionals, engineers, and integrators who need to interface with legacy serial hardware. The key USP is COM port retention, which keeps the same port assignment after reboots. Because it uses the Prolific PL2303RA chipset, it offers proven stability across mixed OS environments.

StarTech.com 3ft (1m) USB to Serial Cable with COM Port Retention, DB9 Male RS232 to USB Converter, USB to Serial Adapter for PLC/Printer/Scanner, Prolific Chipset, Windows/Mac

This adapter bridges current USB hosts and legacy RS-232 devices. It supports data rates up to 921.6 kbps and offers full handshake control. For example, it suits PLC programming, barcode scanners, and POS terminals. In practice, the 0.9 m cable length balances reach and desk clutter.

Slim Specs

Reliable COM Port Retention for Stable Workflows

COM port retention keeps the assigned port number after sleep or reboot. This reduces configuration time for engineers and technicians. Because the port stays consistent, scripts and device configs remain valid. So you avoid re-mapping issues during critical tasks.

Prolific Chipset with Broad OS Compatibility

The integrated Prolific PL2303RA chipset is widely supported across Windows, macOS, and Linux. It works with Windows 7 to 11 and Server editions. It also supports macOS 10.11 to Ventura and selected Linux LTS releases. Confirm your exact OS version before purchase.

RS-232 Handshake and Data Configuration

The adapter supports standard RS-232 signalling and flow control. You can configure 5, 6, 7, or 8 data bits. Stop bits of 1, 1.5, and 2 are available. Parity options include Even, Mark, No, Odd, and Space. Flow control supports DTR/DSR and XON/XOFF.

Compact Build for Industrial and Office Use

The unit uses a plastic housing with a straight form factor. Its small footprint fits crowded racks and desks. The cable length is 0.9 m, which helps reduce excess loop length. Operating temperature is 0–80 °C, with storage from -20 to 100 °C.

Box contents

• 1 × StarTech.com USB to Serial Adapter Cable (0.9 m)
• 1 × User manual

Check before you buy

• Confirm your device uses RS-232 DB9 and requires a serial COM port.
• Verify your host has a USB Type-A port and supports USB 2.0.
• Check OS version support for Windows, macOS, or Linux LTS.
• Confirm compliance needs (CE/RoHS) for your site or region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this cable retain its COM port after a reboot?

A: Yes, it supports COM port retention to keep the same port assignment after reboots.

Q: Is the Prolific chipset compatible with modern Windows?

A: Yes, it supports Windows 7, 8.1, 10, 11 and Server 2016/2019.

Q: Will this work with macOS Ventura and Apple Silicon?

A: It supports macOS 10.11 to 13.0 Ventura; confirm Apple Silicon driver availability.

Q: Can I use this with PLCs and industrial equipment?

A: Yes, it is designed for PLCs, printers, scanners, and POS systems using RS-232.

Q: What RS-232 parameters can I configure?

A: Data bits 5–8, stop bits 1/1.5/2, parity options, and DTR/DSR or XON/XOFF flow control.

The Consultant’s verdict & warranty

Buy this adapter if you need a stable, COM-retentive RS-232 link for PLCs, printers, scanners, or POS devices in UK environments. It suits IT teams, integrators, and engineers who value predictable behaviour across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Covered by the standard Manufacturer Warranty.