Overview

The Waveshare USB to RS232/485 Serial Converter is a compact and reliable adapter designed to bridge modern computers with legacy serial devices. At its core sits an original FT232RNL chip from FTDI, ensuring stable and high-speed data transmission. This single unit supports both RS232 and RS485 communication standards, making it a versatile tool for connecting PLCs, CNC machines, UPS units, sensors, and other industrial or hobbyist equipment to a PC via USB. Housed in a durable ABS plastic case, the converter is portable enough to carry in a laptop bag. It works out of the box with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, macOS, Linux, and Android, so you won't be locked into a single operating system. Whether you're debugging embedded hardware or maintaining factory-floor machinery, this adapter delivers the reliability you need without breaking the bank.

Connectivity & Compatibility

The adapter connects to your computer via a standard USB Type-A port. On the serial side, it provides a DB9 male connector for RS232 and a screw terminal block for RS485 wiring. A physical switch on the board lets you toggle between RS232 and RS485 modes, eliminating the need for separate adapters. An onboard 120Ω termination resistor for RS485 can be enabled or disabled via another switch, which is essential for long-distance or noisy environments. Driver support is excellent across platforms: Windows, macOS, and Linux all have native or easily downloadable FTDI drivers. Android devices with OTG support can also use the adapter with compatible serial terminal apps. The converter is compatible with a wide range of serial devices operating at standard baud rates up to 3 Mbps (RS232) or higher (RS485).

Product Info

Released in early 2024, the Waveshare USB to RS232/485 Converter is priced around ¥4,800 on Japan. It sits comfortably in the entry-to-mid-range market segment, offering genuine FTDI silicon at a fraction of the cost of industrial-grade adapters. The package includes the converter unit only; no cables are bundled. Warranty coverage depends on the seller, but 's standard 30-day return policy typically applies.

Best Use Cases

Industrial maintenance technicians: When you need to configure a PLC, retrieve logs from a UPS, or calibrate a CNC machine, this adapter lets you connect your laptop directly to the serial port without hunting for a legacy serial port. The FT232RNL chip ensures reliable communication even in electrically noisy factory environments. Embedded systems developers: Debugging UART output from microcontrollers or single-board computers is a breeze. The adapter's stable driver support means fewer dropped connections during long development sessions. It works seamlessly with tools like PuTTY, screen, or Arduino IDE. * Hobbyists reviving old hardware: Have a vintage oscilloscope, a lab power supply, or an industrial sensor that only speaks RS232 or RS485? This converter brings those devices back to life on your modern PC or Mac. One caveat: if your laptop only has USB-C ports, you'll need a USB-A to USB-C adapter or hub. Also, for RS485 networks longer than a few meters, proper termination and biasing may be required for error-free communication.

Things to Consider

While the adapter is broadly compatible, it uses a USB Type-A connector, so USB-C-only devices will require an additional adapter. For RS485 applications, pay attention to cable length, termination, and grounding to avoid signal reflections. The FT232RNL chip is genuine, but counterfeit FTDI chips are common in the market; buying from a reputable seller like Waveshare's official storefront ensures you get the real thing. If you need galvanic isolation for sensitive industrial environments, consider a more expensive isolated converter instead. ## FAQ
Q: Does this adapter work with Windows 11 without manual driver installation? A: Yes. Windows 11 automatically installs the FTDI driver via Windows Update. For the latest version, you can download it from FTDI's official website. Q: What is the maximum baud rate supported? A: The FT232RNL chip supports baud rates up to 3 Mbps for RS232 and up to 10 Mbps for RS485, though actual performance depends on cable quality and distance. Q: Can I use this adapter with a Raspberry Pi or Arduino? A: Absolutely. The adapter appears as a standard serial port on Linux, so you can connect it to a Raspberry Pi's USB port and communicate with UART devices. For Arduino, it works as a USB-to-serial bridge for programming and serial monitoring.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: WaveShare
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B0CTK7YZQK
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.