Overview
The StarTech.com ICUSB2322F is a USB 2.0 to dual RS232C serial adapter cable designed to bridge legacy serial devices with modern computers. It is particularly useful in environments where digital signage, POS systems, and barcode scanners still rely on traditional serial connections. The cable measures 1.8 meters in length and features a compact, bus-powered design that eliminates the need for a bulky external power adapter.
At the heart of this adapter is the FTDI FT2232D chipset, a well-regarded solution known for driver stability and broad OS compatibility. The inclusion of a 2500Vrms optical isolation circuit further enhances reliability in electrically noisy environments or where ground potential differences exist between connected devices.
Connectivity & Compatibility
On the host side, the ICUSB2322F connects via a USB Type-A port, while the device side offers two D-Sub 9-pin male RS232C connectors. This dual-port configuration allows simultaneous connection of two serial devices. The adapter supports baud rates up to 921.6Kbps, with data bits of 7 or 8, stop bits of 1 or 2, and parity options including None, Odd, Even, Mark, and Space.
The adapter works with major operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Thanks to the FTDI chipset, official drivers are readily available, minimizing setup headaches. The COM port retention feature ensures that the assigned COM number remains consistent across reconnections, which is critical for industrial software and measurement tools that depend on fixed port assignments.
Product Info
The ICUSB2322F is available through StarTech.com's official product page and major online retailers.Check the retailer's page for the latest price. While FTDI-based products cost more than those using cheaper compatible chips, the premium is justified by superior stability and long-term reliability.
The adapter comes with a standard two-year manufacturer warranty. The package includes only the cable itself; drivers are downloaded from the official website. As a TAA-compliant product, it also meets U.S. government procurement requirements, a notable credential for institutional buyers.
Best Use Cases
This adapter is ideal for engineers and technicians working in factories or laboratories who need to connect PLCs, measuring instruments, or industrial robots to modern laptops or tablets. The FTDI chipset's stability and the optical isolation's noise immunity make it a dependable choice in demanding field environments.
It is also well-suited for retail and facility managers operating POS systems or digital signage. With two serial ports, a single ICUSB2322F can drive both a receipt printer and a customer display simultaneously. The COM port retention feature eliminates the hassle of reconfiguring software after every reboot or cable disconnect.
However, those who only need to connect a single serial device may find a one-port adapter more cost-effective and compact. Similarly, users requiring high-speed data transfer over USB4 or Thunderbolt should look elsewhere, as this is a USB 2.0-based product focused solely on RS232C connectivity.
