StarTech.com Low Profile DB9 Serial Port Adapter Plate IDC10 to DB9 PLATE9M16LP
The StarTech.com PLATE9M16LP Low Profile Serial Plate adds a DB9 serial port to small form factor computers, enabling critical connectivity for legacy industrial and network equipment.
- Legacy Connectivity: Integrates a DB9 serial port onto modern low-profile PCs, ensuring essential communication with older, specialized hardware.
- Small Form Factor Design: Engineered for compact chassis, this adapter fits seamlessly into space-constrained business desktops and servers.
- Motherboard Integration: Connects directly to an IDC10 header on the motherboard, providing a stable and reliable internal serial interface.
- Lifetime Reliability: Backed by StarTech.com's lifetime warranty, this component offers sustained operational value and reduces replacement costs.
Product Overview
Product Overview
The StarTech.com PLATE9M16LP is a purpose-built low-profile serial plate designed to add a DB9 serial port to the rear panel of small form factor (SFF) computers, connecting via an IDC10 header on the motherboard. This essential adapter facilitates communication with a wide range of legacy devices that still depend on serial interfaces.
Engineered for durability and long-term reliability, this adapter ensures that businesses can maintain operational continuity for existing infrastructure, from industrial control systems to point-of-sale terminals, without compromising on the compact design of modern workstations.
- Core Functionality: Adds a standard DB9 serial port to low-profile computer chassis, enabling vital communication with specialized peripherals.
- SFF Compatibility: Specifically designed for small form factor systems, ensuring a perfect fit and preserving the compact footprint of business desktops.
- Internal Motherboard Connection: Utilizes an IDC10 header for a secure and stable internal connection, minimizing external cable clutter and potential disconnections.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality components for sustained performance in demanding commercial environments, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Operational Value: Extends the useful life of legacy serial-dependent equipment, deferring costly upgrades and optimizing IT budget allocation.
This low-profile serial plate is an indispensable component for any organization needing to integrate legacy serial devices with contemporary small form factor computing platforms.
Technical Specifications
1Performance & Business Impact
2Connectivity & I/O
3Physical & Environmental
4Lifecycle, Warranty & Compliance
Full Specifications
Features5
Weight & dimensions4
Packaging data1
Logistics data1
Downloads1
What This Solves
Connecting Legacy Industrial Controls
Many manufacturing and industrial environments still rely on specialized machinery and PLCs that communicate via DB9 serial ports. This adapter ensures modern, compact workstations can interface directly with these critical systems, maintaining production uptime.
Industrial automation facilities, factory floor operations, logistics and warehouse management
Integrating Point-of-Sale Systems
Retail and hospitality businesses often use POS terminals, receipt printers, and other peripherals that require serial connectivity. This plate allows small form factor PCs to serve as robust POS stations, ensuring reliable transaction processing.
Retail store networks, restaurant chains, hospitality front desks, franchise operations
Enabling Network Console Access
IT professionals frequently need serial console access to configure or troubleshoot network switches, routers, and firewalls, especially older models. This adapter provides the necessary DB9 port on SFF PCs for direct, out-of-band management.
Network operations centers, IT infrastructure teams, data center management, remote branch offices
Key Features
DB9 Serial Port
Provides essential connectivity for a wide range of legacy devices, extending the operational life of existing hardware investments.
Low Profile Form Factor
Ensures compatibility with small form factor computer chassis, preserving compact designs and optimizing space utilization in offices.
IDC10 Motherboard Header Connection
Offers a secure and stable internal connection, reducing the risk of accidental disconnections and ensuring consistent data flow.
16-inch (0.4 m) Cable Length
Provides sufficient reach for flexible internal routing within various SFF cases, simplifying installation and preventing strain on internal components.
Lifetime Warranty
Guarantees long-term reliability and peace of mind, minimizing total cost of ownership through assured product support.
Industry Applications
Manufacturing & Industrial
Connects to legacy industrial control systems and PLCs, ensuring operational continuity for production lines and machinery.
Retail & Hospitality
Enables connectivity for specialized point-of-sale (POS) systems, receipt printers, and barcode scanners that require serial communication.
Government & Public Sector
Facilitates console access to older network infrastructure or specialized sensor equipment in public facilities and agencies.
Healthcare & Life Sciences
Integrates with legacy medical diagnostic devices and lab equipment that rely on DB9 serial interfaces for data transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of motherboards are compatible with this serial plate?
This serial plate is designed to connect to any motherboard featuring a standard IDC10 header connector, which is common on many business-grade motherboards for legacy peripheral support.
Can this adapter be used in a full-height computer case?
While designed for low-profile cases, it can technically be installed in a full-height case if an appropriate bracket is used, though it will not fill the entire slot opening.
What is the primary use case for adding a DB9 serial port to a modern PC?
The primary use is to connect to legacy equipment such as industrial control systems, point-of-sale terminals, network switches for console access, or specialized diagnostic tools that still rely on DB9 serial communication.
Does this serial plate require any special drivers for operation?
No, as a passive adapter, this serial plate typically does not require specific drivers. The operating system will usually recognize the serial port provided by the motherboard's IDC10 header.
Warranty & Returns
Manufacturer Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Warranty is provided directly by the manufacturer and covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
Return Policy
Returns subject to manufacturer approval
Hardware returns are governed by the manufacturer's return policy. Some products are non-returnable or subject to restocking fees. Defective items are handled under the manufacturer warranty. Contact Zent Networks before initiating any return.