4 Port PCI Express Serial Combo Card StarTech PEX4S232485-OB

The StarTech 4 Port PCI Express Serial Combo Card (PEX4S232485-OB) provides two RS-232 ports and two ports configurable for RS-422 or RS-485, adding serial connectivity to a PC via a PCI-Express slot. The card uses the SystemBase SB16C1052PCI chipset, supports a 256-byte FIFO, and is compatible with Windows 2000 and Windows 7. It ships with both full-height and low-profile brackets and an integrated breakout cable for convenient connection of multiple serial devices.

Advantages

This single PCIe combo card supports multiple serial protocols (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485), enabling communication with a mix of devices from one expansion slot. Included full and low-profile brackets ensure compatibility with a wide range of system form factors, while the bundled breakout cable provides an all-in-one connection solution and helps reduce cable clutter. The card is backed by StarTech.com's lifetime warranty and free lifetime technical support.

Suitable for

• Connecting legacy RS-232 serial devices such as barcode scanners, POS terminals, and serial printers
• Integrating RS-422 or RS-485 industrial equipment like PLCs, sensors, and motor controllers
• Upgrading small form factor or full-size PCs that require additional serial ports

Key specifications

• Model: PEX4S232485-OB
• Interfaces: 2 x RS-232, 2 x RS-422/RS-485 (2-wire or 4-wire)
• Host interface: PCI Express (PCIe)
• Chipset: SystemBase SB16C1052PCI
• FIFO: 256 bytes
• Compatible OS: Windows 2000, Windows 7
• Dimensions: 125 mm x 70 mm x 20 mm

How to use

Power down your PC and insert the card into an available PCI-Express slot, then secure it with the appropriate bracket (full-height or low-profile). Connect the included breakout cable to the card’s header and route the cable to your serial devices, wiring each connector according to the required protocol (RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485). Power on the system and install any necessary drivers for your operating system. Configure serial port settings (baud rate, parity, stop bits) in your application or device manager as required.

Usage recommendations

Use the breakout cable provided to centralize connections and reduce clutter. For industrial RS-422/RS-485 links, use twisted-pair cabling and proper termination where required. Verify driver compatibility with your OS version before installation.