slick_william
Member
Hello everybody of the forum!
I have been working a lot with RS-232 lately and had a fundamental type of question.
I understand most or all of the signals involved with RS-232 (TX, RX, RTS, CTS, DSR, DTS, DCD, and RI on older systems, etc.) I know that many applications call for a null modem to cross TX and RX signals between certain device connections (like DTE to DTE connections for example.)
My question is - are there any situations where it is dangerous to cross signals, or could potentially cause damage to equipment by using the wrong cable?
For example, I was in the field looking to connect to a DB25 connector via a DB9 to DB25 RS-232 convertor cable. Some manufacturers use cables that physically look the same (DB9 on one end, DB25 on the other) where the pins will not match up with the RS-232 pinout. Is it possible that using an incorrect connector in such a situation would damage the customer's equipment? My best guess is that the inputs would be isolated (optically for example), but I figured I would ask the panel of experts for real-world situations and experience.
Thank you!
I have been working a lot with RS-232 lately and had a fundamental type of question.
I understand most or all of the signals involved with RS-232 (TX, RX, RTS, CTS, DSR, DTS, DCD, and RI on older systems, etc.) I know that many applications call for a null modem to cross TX and RX signals between certain device connections (like DTE to DTE connections for example.)
My question is - are there any situations where it is dangerous to cross signals, or could potentially cause damage to equipment by using the wrong cable?
For example, I was in the field looking to connect to a DB25 connector via a DB9 to DB25 RS-232 convertor cable. Some manufacturers use cables that physically look the same (DB9 on one end, DB25 on the other) where the pins will not match up with the RS-232 pinout. Is it possible that using an incorrect connector in such a situation would damage the customer's equipment? My best guess is that the inputs would be isolated (optically for example), but I figured I would ask the panel of experts for real-world situations and experience.
Thank you!