3 Common Problems with a USB to Serial Adapter

If you are trying to hook up a piece of hardware through a serial port towards your personal computer, you surely need a (Universal Serial Bus) USB to serial adapter. However, most of the computers do not contain serial ports. Instead, these current computers have a range of different USB ports.

A USB to serial adapter permits you to hook up a serial device for the USB port. However, you need to have the drivers’ converter installed on your computer for it to recognize how to suitably distinguish the connected device. Look for the CD package that comes along with your adapter. Then launch your web browser and proceed to the website where you bought the converter. Search for the converter you purchased, because there may be a linkage listed intended for the driver download.

1. ActiveSync Data Transfer Error

ActiveSync is the data transfer software for operation on computers using a Windows platform, which was developed by Microsoft. If your computer is linked to a personal digital assistant (PDA), for instance a Blackberry phone, the ActiveSync software is used to move data to and from the PDA and the personal computer (PC).

However, if an error message continuously appears when you are trying to hot sync the PDA and PC using a USB to serial adapter. Try shutting down the computer and attempt some troubleshooting on it. You can simply turn off and then turn on again the computer. On the other hand, you also need to turn off and turn back on your PDA. By now, it should be working already.     

2. Windows Vista Disallowed the Connection

If the computer that you are using is running Microsoft Windows Vista operating system (OS), you need to have the USB to serial adapter. These ports serve as the main way for the connection of your computer to other hardware. Nevertheless, if you include an older device that utilizes a 9-pin serial cable, you can simply connect it with your Vista OS computer using the USB-to-9-pin serial adapter.

If you are getting a failed connection using your USB to serial adapter you need to check its property settings. You also need to take note of the error message that appears on the screen to know what kind of troubleshooting you should do. Normally, when an error message appears, self help guides come up as well. Just follow the prompt messages.

3. Belkin USB to Serial Adopter Vista Error

Belkin is a PC hardware brand that specializes in specialty network hubs, various cable connections, surge protectors, other similar items. Most of these connections designed for a computer are USB cables. However, a USB port is always available, so linking the Belkin USB device to USB to serial adapter is a viable alternative. If you decide to do so, you can attach the serial port of a PC running Windows Vista OS.

Usually, the error that appears on the Belkin USB to a Vista running computer is a connectivity error. It prompts that the Vista OS does not support or detect Belkin USB. If this kind of error appears on your screen, try to restart the computer. Next, ensure that the ports are clean and free of obstruction to guarantee USB to serial adapter detection.