Serial Port Complete book is a guide to designing, programming, installing and troubleshooting computer links including networks of multiple computers. Most of the links described use one of the two serial interfaces popularly known as RS-232 or RS-485. Serial Port Complete book gives a quick start to any project that involves RS-232 or RS-485 serial interfaces. The computers may be personal computers, embedded controllers or any devices that shares a common interface. Common uses for these links include data acquisition and control systems.

• RS-232 remains one of the most popular ways to link a computer with another computer or peripheral, while RS-485 is a simple, inexpensive solution for networks and long links. Both are industry standards, defined by TIA/EIA- 232 and TIA/ EIA-485.

• The author Jan Axelson presents original circuit designs and application codes for a variety of configurations to help designers and programmers create reliable, efficient links and networks. Insights into the theory behind the designs make it easy to adapt the examples for specific needs.

• The topics include options for linking two or more computers, converting between different interfaces, cabling and termination requirements and choosing data formats and protocols. Serial Port Complete book gives special attention network programming issues and challenges. Its not all theory. Serial Port Complete is a very practical book, full of detailed examples - including Stamps and Visual Basic.

• All program examples are written in Visual Basic version 5 and will run in VB5 and higher. Most examples use the MSComm custom control included with the Professional and Enterprise editions.

• Last but not least, users, or anyone who uses a computer with serial ports, will find useful information, including advice on configuring and adding ports.
  

• Serial Port Complete book and disk include an example code for Visual Basic and the Basic Stamp and 8051 - Basic microcontrollers.

• Introduction
• Options and Choices
• Formats and Protocols
• The PC's Serial Port from the Connector In
• PC Programming
• Microcontroller Serial Ports
• Linking Two Devices with RS-232
• Connectors and Cables for RS-232
• RS-232 Applications
• Links and Networks with RS-485
• RS-485 Cables & Interfacing
• Networks Programming
• Two Networks
• Appendices
  A. Resources
  B. RS-232 Signals
  C. Number Systems
  Index