RS232 to USB converter problems

ChrisD. · 14 Jul 2012 at 20:46

I normally use a works laptop with a COM port for configuring/messing around with routers and switches but I don't have access to it at the moment. I bought an RS232 to USB converter off ebay and I can't get it to work, and from having a quick Google, it appears that it's a common issue.

The only driver I have managed to get to install is the following one:

I'm using the following settings in PuTTY (I've also tried Hyper-terminal, same outcome):

And this is what I get on in PuTTY:

Hitting enter doesn't work and if I cold boot one of the switches or routers I have here, I get a load of gibberish on screen. They're the same PuTTY settings that I use in work so it points toward the driver, but any other driver I've tried gives me error code 10.

Any suggestions?

kalvindeane · 14 Jul 2012 at 23:46

I placed an order for one too, from Amazon. The general vibe I got from different forums was that they usually work well in Linux, but not in Windows.

tribz · 15 Jul 2012 at 00:21

That looks like a pretty old driver. This is mine ...

I downloaded it from somewhere as I'd lost the disc. Cant remember where unfortunately, sorry :-/ but I'd have a look for the newer driver.

Edit, this was still in my internet history ... PL2303_Prolific_DriverInstaller_v1.5.0.zip google that and see if thats any better.

ChrisD. · 15 Jul 2012 at 07:10

I've tried that driver as well. Looking into it a bit more, it seems that perhaps the converter I've bought isn't 100% compatible with Windows 7x64, so I've ordered another one.

tribz · 15 Jul 2012 at 13:01

Is it the one clear braiding and the blue serial end? Thats the one I've got on Win7 64. I only use it for connecting to my amiga's though so might be its fine for that but not for what your doing?

ChrisD. · 15 Jul 2012 at 13:03

I'm not at home now but I think it's that one. I found another on eBay that claims to be compatible with Windows 7 X64, cost me £5 so it's worth a punt I guess.

chippy08 · 15 Jul 2012 at 13:43

Sounds like same lead i have and it works in win7 for me but i let windows get driver for i think not used it for a long time.

NOTE: For Windows 7, please use RC build 7100 or RTM Final version. (Installer program will not run on early Windows 7 or Beta versions)

Brycheiniog · 15 Jul 2012 at 19:26

Your mistake is using one with a Prolific chipset. The FTDI based ones are far far more reliable.

ChrisD. · 15 Jul 2012 at 20:21

Brycheiniog said:
Your mistake is using one with a Prolific chipset. The FTDI based ones are far far more reliable.

Cheers. I'll give an FTDI a go next.

ChrisD. · 17 Jul 2012 at 16:08

Works with the new one.

Caged · 17 Jul 2012 at 18:11

Brainboxes serial converters every time. Fortunately I don't have to personally pay for them.