Null modem cable uses USB ports

Future Technology Devices International has come up with an easier way of linking PCs.

The USB NMC-2.5m is a USB to USB null modem cable that uses an approach that was established using legacy RS232 serial COM ports when the PC industry was in its infancy.

However, the USB NMC-2.5m offers a quick and convenient method of inter-PC communication using USB ports.

Packaged similar to a standard USB cable, featuring USB type A plugs at each end, both plugs conceal an FT232RQ USB-UART convertor IC together with supporting components on a small PCB.

Data are sent across crossconnected TXD/RXD connections and the RTS/CTS signals provide handshaking.

A common GND reference rail links the two convertor PCBs.

The USB NMC-2.5m cable is 2.5m long.

Used together with FTDI's virtual COM port (VCP) drivers, the USB NMC provides inter-PC, COM port-based communication at up to 3Mbaud rates.

The drivers, supporting all the popular operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Mac OS, are available for free download from FTDI's website.

Back to top