StarTech.com 8-Port USB 2.0 to RS232/422/485 Serial Hub 15kV ESD ICUSB234858I
The StarTech.com ICUSB234858I 8-Port USB 2.0 to Serial Hub provides robust connectivity for up to eight RS232, RS422, or RS485 devices, ensuring reliable data transfer with integrated 15kV ESD protection.
- Multi-Protocol Support: Connects a wide range of legacy industrial and commercial equipment using RS232, RS422, or RS485, extending the lifespan of critical assets.
- 8-Port Expansion: Adds eight serial ports via a single USB connection, enabling efficient management of multiple devices from one host system.
- 15kV ESD Protection: Safeguards connected devices and data from electrostatic discharge, preventing costly damage and ensuring continuous operation in harsh environments.
- Industrial Durability: Features a steel housing and includes a DIN rail kit for secure mounting in control cabinets and industrial settings, enhancing system resilience.
Product Overview
Product Overview
The StarTech.com ICUSB234858I is an industrial-grade 8-Port USB 2.0 to Serial Hub, engineered to bridge modern USB systems with legacy RS232, RS422, and RS485 devices. It features a durable steel housing and supports a baud rate of up to 921.6 Kbit/s for efficient data exchange.
Designed for demanding environments, this hub includes 15kV ESD protection and surge protection, safeguarding sensitive equipment from electrical disturbances. Its broad operating system compatibility, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensures frictionless integration into existing IT infrastructures.
- Core Functionality: Converts a single USB 2.0 port into eight versatile RS232/422/485 serial ports, enabling communication with a broad spectrum of industrial and commercial devices.
- Enhanced Reliability: Integrated 15kV ESD protection and surge protection prevent electrical damage to connected equipment, minimizing downtime and extending hardware lifespan in challenging operational settings.
- Broad Compatibility: Supports a wide array of Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, ensuring frictionless deployment and integration with existing IT and OT systems.
- Flexible Deployment: Includes a DIN rail mounting kit and universal power plug types (ANZ, EU, UK, US), allowing for secure installation and global use in diverse industrial and facility environments.
- Operational Value: Provides a cost-effective solution for maintaining and extending the utility of legacy serial devices, reducing the need for expensive system overhauls and preserving operational budgets.
This 8-port serial hub is an essential component for businesses requiring reliable, protected, and scalable connectivity for their critical serial-based infrastructure.
Technical Specifications
1Performance & Business Impact
2Connectivity & I/O
3Physical & Environmental
4Lifecycle, Warranty & Compliance
Full Specifications
Ports & interfaces7
Power7
Performance4
Features4
Weight & dimensions4
Packaging content4
System requirements1
Packaging data1
Operational conditions1
Sustainability1
Logistics data1
Technical details1
Other features1
What This Solves
Integrate Legacy Industrial Controls
Many industrial facilities rely on older machinery and control systems that communicate via RS232, RS422, or RS485 serial protocols. This hub enables modern, USB-equipped computers to interface directly with up to eight such devices, ensuring continuous operation and data exchange for critical manufacturing and automation processes.
Manufacturing plants, industrial automation, logistics warehouses, process control environments
Protect Sensitive Serial Devices
Operational technology (OT) environments often experience electrical noise and electrostatic discharge, which can damage sensitive serial equipment and disrupt data flow. With 15kV ESD and surge protection, this hub shields connected devices, ensuring data integrity and minimizing costly downtime in electrically challenging settings.
Factory floors, utility substations, data acquisition systems, harsh environmental deployments
Expand Point-of-Sale Connectivity
Retail and hospitality businesses frequently use serial peripherals like receipt printers, barcode scanners, and cash drawers with their point-of-sale (POS) systems. This 8-port hub provides the necessary serial connections, allowing multiple peripherals to be managed from a single workstation, streamlining checkout operations and improving customer service.
Retail stores, restaurant chains, hotel front desks, franchise operations
Key Features
8 x RS232/422/485 Serial Ports
Provides extensive connectivity for multiple legacy industrial or commercial devices, consolidating management and reducing hardware footprint.
15kV ESD Protection
Safeguards sensitive serial equipment from damaging electrostatic discharge, ensuring device longevity and uninterrupted data communication.
Steel Housing Construction
Offers enhanced durability and electromagnetic shielding, ensuring reliable performance in rugged industrial and electrically noisy environments.
DIN Rail Mounting Kit Included
Enables secure and organized installation within industrial control cabinets or server racks, optimizing space and simplifying cable management.
Broad OS Compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Ensures frictionless integration into diverse IT infrastructures, reducing deployment complexity and supporting existing operating system standards.
Industry Applications
Manufacturing & Industrial
Connects PLCs, CNC machines, and sensors to modern control systems, ensuring reliable data acquisition and process automation.
Retail & Hospitality
Integrates legacy POS systems, barcode scanners, and receipt printers, maintaining efficient transaction processing and inventory management.
Government & Public Sector
Manages specialized equipment and older control panels in facilities or utilities, extending the life of critical infrastructure.
Healthcare & Life Sciences
Connects diagnostic equipment and lab instruments that use serial communication to central data systems for analysis and record-keeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this hub support all three serial protocols (RS232, RS422, RS485) simultaneously?
Yes, each of the eight ports on the StarTech.com ICUSB234858I can be individually configured to support RS232, RS422, or RS485 protocols. This flexibility allows for simultaneous connection of various device types to a single host system.
What kind of power supply does this serial hub use?
The hub is powered by an external AC adapter, which is included in the box. It supports input voltages from 100-240V and provides 12V output at 3A, ensuring stable power delivery to all connected serial devices.
Is this device suitable for use in industrial control panels?
Absolutely. The StarTech.com ICUSB234858I features a durable steel housing, 15kV ESD protection, and includes a DIN rail mounting kit. These features make it purpose-built for secure and reliable operation within industrial control panels and harsh environments.
What is the maximum data transfer rate for the serial ports?
Each serial port on this hub supports a maximum baud rate of 921.6 Kbit/s. This high speed ensures efficient and rapid data transfer for most industrial and commercial serial communication applications.
Warranty & Returns
Manufacturer Warranty
2 Years
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.