SparkFun
SparkFun RS232 Shifter SMD (No DB9)
A compact RS232-to-TTL level shifter board that converts both TX and RX lines bidirectionally. Powered from your target application's supply voltage, it auto...
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A compact RS232-to-TTL level shifter board that converts both TX and RX lines bidirectionally. Powered from your target application's supply voltage, it automatically converts RS232 signals to match — run it at 5 V for 5 V TTL, or at 2.8 V for 2.8 V CMOS TTL levels. Includes TX and RX indicator LEDs.
This version has no DB9 connector attached, making it suitable for field installations and projects where RS232 serial comes from non-DB9 sources.
Key Features
- Bidirectional RS232 ↔ TTL – Converts both TX and RX lines
- Voltage Flexible – Operates at any supply voltage, converting RS232 to matching TTL levels
- TX/RX Indicator LEDs – Visual confirmation of data flow
- Wide Baud Rate Support – 300 bps to 115,200 bps
- No DB9 Connector – Bare board for custom wiring
Specifications
- Conversion: RS232 ↔ TTL (TX and RX)
- Supply Voltage: Application-dependent (matches TTL output level)
- Baud Rate: 300–115,200 bps
- Dimensions: 1.2" × 1.1" (30.5 × 27.9 mm)
Ideal For
- Microcontroller-to-computer serial communication
- Field installations with RS232 devices
- Legacy serial equipment integration
Package Contents
- 1× RS232 Shifter SMD board (no DB9)
Resources
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- baud
- Baud is the signalling rate of a serial connection, often used as the speed setting for UART communication. Matching the baud rate matters because both connected devices must use the same setting for readable data.
- microcontroller
- A microcontroller is a small computer on a single chip that runs a stored program and controls connected inputs and outputs such as buttons, sensors, displays and communication interfaces. In a device built around one, it is the part that executes the code and coordinates the device's behaviour.
- RS232-to-TTL
- RS232-to-TTL conversion translates the higher, inverted voltages of classic RS232 serial ports into the low-voltage logic-level (TTL) serial used by microcontrollers. Connecting a true RS232 signal directly to a TTL input can damage it unless a converter is used.
- RX
- RX means receive, usually showing data being received by the board. An RX indicator LED can help with troubleshooting USB or serial communication.
- SMD
- SMD means surface-mount device, a component style designed to be soldered directly onto the surface of a circuit board rather than through holes. SMD parts are compact and mounted flat on the board, which suits smaller and mass-produced designs.
- TX
- TX means transmit, usually showing data being sent from the board. A TX indicator LED can help you see when the board is communicating or uploading code.
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SparkFun RS232 Shifter SMD Schematic
Schematic · 77.5 KB · Click any page to view full size
Supplier page — sparkfun.com
Supplier Description · 597.5 KB · Click any page to view full size
Resources & Downloads
Guides, code examples, and more
Related Tutorials
Free guides on learn.littlebird.com.au
