Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender

The Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender is a dependable solution that expands your computer’s serial capabilities by extending RS-232 connections over a CAT-5 cable. Designed for simple, plug-and-play deployment, this two-piece system lets you place a remote RS-232 device farther away from your PC while preserving signal integrity and easy power delivery. With a compact sender unit that connects directly to your computer using the supplied cable and a receiver unit that interfaces with the extended device, this extender delivers reliable serial communication without the need to replace existing equipment. The sender is powered by a 5-volt power supply, which also powers the receiver through the CAT-5 cable, simplifying installation and reducing the number of power adapters in your setup.

• Effortless RS-232 extension: Connect the sender unit to your computer via the supplied cable, and link the receiver unit to your remote RS-232 device for seamless, long-distance serial communication.
• Power over CAT-5 for a cleaner setup: The 5-volt power supply energizes both the sender and the receiver through the CAT-5 connection, minimizing clutter and eliminating the need for multiple power strips.
• Reliable, standard serial interface: Extend RS-232 signals with a robust, proven interface that works with a wide range of serial devices, printers, industrial controllers, and test equipment that rely on RS-232 communication.
• Easy installation, minimal footprint: The two-unit design is straightforward to deploy in desks, racks, or equipment closets, making it ideal for office, lab, or industrial environments where space is at a premium.
• Durable construction for demanding environments: Built to withstand everyday use, the Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender offers a stable link between the host PC and the remote device, reducing setup time and maintenance.

Technical Details of Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender

• Product: Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender
• Power: 5V power supply powers both the sender and receiver through the CAT-5 cable
• Interface: RS-232 serial extension between sender (PC side) and receiver (remote device)
• Cable type: CAT-5 cable used to connect sender and receiver
• Included cables: Supplied cable to connect sender to computer

How to install Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender

• Step 1: Connect the sender unit to your computer using the supplied cable. Ensure the PC-end serial connection is properly seated.
• Step 2: Connect a CAT-5 cable from the sender unit to the receiver unit, keeping connections secure and neatly routed to avoid strain.
• Step 3: Attach the RS-232 device you want to control or monitor to the receiver unit’s RS-232 port.
• Step 4: Plug the 5V power supply into the sender unit. If the power supply is designed to power both units via CAT-5, verify that the power link is connected and that the receiver also receives power through the CAT-5 path.
• Step 5: Power on both units and verify communication. If needed, configure the serial settings (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits) to match the remote device for a stable connection.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Gefen RS-232 Serial Extender used for? It extends RS-232 serial connections over a CAT-5 cable, allowing a PC to communicate with a distant RS-232 device without replacing existing equipment.
• How is power supplied to the extender? The sender unit is powered by a 5-volt power supply, which also powers the receiver via the CAT-5 cable, simplifying installation and reducing the need for multiple power adapters.
• What cables are required? A standard CAT-5 (Ethernet) cable is used to connect the sender and receiver. A supplied cable is used to connect the sender to the computer.
• Which devices are compatible? The extender is designed for standard RS-232 serial devices, making it suitable for a wide range of serial peripherals and equipment.
• Do I need special software or drivers? The description emphasizes a straightforward serial extension, typically compatible with standard RS-232 configurations. Check your device’s serial settings to ensure compatibility with the extender.