The RS-232 standard for serial communication was defined many years ago, before computers were commonplace. It specifies the signal levels for communication between a Teletype machine and a modem, with relatively slow baud rates and cables no longer than 50 feet. The signals were defined to switch between +12 Volts and -12 Volts, with clearly specified tolerances. When working with 5V logic, this requirement is inconvenient and has led to a range of chips that make the conversion, or "level shifting" somewhat easier.
Parts List
| Qty | Item | Farnell | RS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 9-pin male D-connector | ||
| 1 | 4-pin Molex KK connector | ||
| 1 | MAX232A | ||
| 5 | 0.1μF ceramic capacitor | ||
| 1 | Red LED, 3mm | ||
| 1 | Resistor | ||
| 1 | Tri-pad board (Maplin's) | ||
| 1 | 9-pin D-connector shell (red) | 469-890 | |
| 1 | 9-pin D-connector shell (blue) | 469-907 |
To Be Continued....
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