Tripp Lite 2-Port USB to DB9 Serial FTDI Adapter Cable with COM Retention (M/M), 6 ft. (1.83 m)

Overview

The Tripp Lite U209-006-2 is a two-port USB to DB9 serial adapter cable designed to connect legacy RS-232 devices to modern computers that only have USB A ports. It converts a single USB connection into two independent serial COM ports, supporting data transfer speeds up to 225 Kbps. This makes it ideal for maintaining compatibility with modems, point of sale terminals, label printers, and industrial controllers without needing additional hardware.

Equipped with an FTDI FT232RL chipset, the cable ensures smooth protocol conversion and broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Its COM retention feature preserves port assignments after reboots or reconnections, preventing software confusion and streamlining device management.

Key features

• Converts one USB A port into two DB9 RS-232 serial ports, expanding connectivity options for legacy equipment
• Supports data rates up to 225 Kbps, providing faster communication than traditional onboard serial ports
• Powered directly from the USB bus, eliminating the need for an external power adapter
• Six-foot cable length offers flexibility to position devices comfortably on a bench or inside a rack
• FTDI FT232RL chipset ensures reliable operation and driver support across multiple operating systems
• COM retention feature automatically restores original port numbers after unplugging or rebooting, maintaining consistent device recognition
• Foil and braid shielding reduces electromagnetic and radio frequency interference, preserving signal quality in noisy environments
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it suitable for diverse IT setups and projects

Key specs

• Ports: 2 x DB9 serial (male) to 1 x USB A (male)
• Cable length: 6 feet (1.83 meters)
• Data transfer rate: up to 225 Kbps
• Chipset: FTDI FT232RL
• Power source: USB bus powered, no external adapter required
• Shielding: foil and braid for EMI and RFI protection
• Operating system compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux

Connectivity and compatibility

This adapter cable bridges the gap between modern USB-only computers and older serial devices that rely on DB9 RS-232 connections. It works seamlessly with a wide range of equipment including modems, industrial controllers, label printers, and point of sale terminals. The FTDI chipset ensures that drivers are readily available and stable across major operating systems, simplifying integration into existing setups.

• USB A male connector plugs into the host computer
• Two DB9 male connectors connect to serial devices
• Supports COM port retention to maintain consistent device mapping

Ideal uses and environments

This cable is well suited for engineers, IT administrators, and hobbyists who need to connect legacy serial devices to modern computers without serial ports. Its shielding and reliable data rates make it a strong choice for use in office environments, labs, server rooms, and factory floors where electromagnetic interference can be a concern. The six-foot length provides enough reach for flexible device placement while keeping the host computer accessible.