2 Determining RS-232 Protocol Connections

Basics

The process of sending data sequentially over a computer bus is called serial communication, which means the data will be transmitted in two different ways: 1) serial, and 2.) parallel.

You should know the following terms:

  • Computer Bus
  • Parallel connection
  • Serial connection

The process of sending data sequentially over a computer bus is called serial communication, which means the data will be transmitted in two different ways. In a serial connection, data is transferred bit-by-bit. Think of it as shooting a machine gun at a target. Each one reaches the target one by one.

Parallel data is transmitted in a byte (8 bit) or character on several data lines or buses at a time. Think of it as using a shotgun where many number of bullets reach the target at the same time

RS-232 is a standard protocol used for serial communication, it is used for connecting a computer and its peripheral devices to allow serial data exchange between them. The standard protocol is:

TXD

TRANSMITTER

RXD

RECEIVER

RTS

REQUEST TO SEND

CTS

CLEAR TO SEND

GND

GROUND

To learn more about the specific path the data takes as well as handshaking and the voltage required, review the article in the Resources section.

Image and information Credits: https://circuitdigest.com/article/rs232-serial-communication-protocol-basics-specifications


Here are additional resources you may find useful:

Complete the following task or self-assessment:

  • Identify the devices in your environment that use serial connections.

  • Identify the devices in your environment that use parallel connections