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StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, M/M, 43cm (ICUSB232V2)
StarTech.com

StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, M/M, 43cm (ICUSB232V2)

Bottom line: The StarTech.com StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable ($27.60 on Amazon as of 2026-10-21 16:14 UTC): Prolific PL2303GT chipset with a 512-byte FIFO buffer; main trade-off: 17in (43cm) cable is short for rack or bench reach.

$27.60

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Buy on Amazon — $27.60 Compare to similar cables & connectors

By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For retro PC hardware and period-correct parts, synthesises manufacturer documentation, community compatibility lists and marketplace listings rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-21. Price and availability subject to change.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Prolific PL2303GT chipset with a 512-byte FIFO buffer
  • ✓ Handles baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps
  • ✓ Selectable 5/6/7/8 data bits and odd/even/mark/space/none parity
  • ✓ 3-year warranty plus free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual support

Cons

  • ✗ 17in (43cm) cable is short for rack or bench reach
  • ✗ Only one DB9 port, so multi-device setups need several adapters
  • ✗ Prolific chipset drivers can need manual installs on older Windows
  • ✗ USB-A only; USB-C machines need a separate adapter or hub

Manufacturer description

The StarTech.com ICUSB232V2 gives you a single RS232 DB9 serial port on any machine with a free USB-A port, which is why it stays a staple for retro PC work and shop-floor gear. The 17in (43cm) captive cable keeps it compact enough to live in a laptop bag, and because the adapter draws its power from the USB port there is no wall wart to carry. Inside is a Prolific PL2303GT chipset with a 512-byte FIFO buffer, good for baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps, plus selectable 5/6/7/8 data bits and odd, even, mark, space, or none parity modes, so you can match the framing a legacy device expects instead…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored StarTech.com StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the cables & connectors category. StarTech.com's cables & connectors lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for cables & connectors of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this USB to serial adapter work on macOS and Linux?

Yes. StarTech lists the ICUSB232V2 as compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, and it connects to USB 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 ports.

What is the maximum baud rate it supports?

Up to 921.6 Kbps, backed by a 512-byte FIFO buffer. It also supports 5/6/7/8 data bits and odd, even, mark, space, or none parity modes.

Which chipset does the StarTech ICUSB232V2 use?

A Prolific PL2303GT chipset. That matters if your device or software expects a specific driver family, so check driver availability for your OS before buying.

How long is the cable?

17 inches (43cm). It is a captive cable powered by the USB port itself, so there is no separate power adapter to pack.

What kind of devices can I connect with it?

Any RS232 DB9 serial peripheral: barcode scanners, network switch console ports, receipt printers, PLCs, oscilloscopes, scales, serial modems, and point-of-sale terminals.

Key Features

  • MAXIMIZED PORTABILITY: This USB to serial RS232 adapter converts a USB port into an RS232 DB9 serial port; Compatible with barcode readers/scanners, networks switches, receipt printers, PLCs, medical devices, oscilloscopes, scales, etc.
  • BROAD COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with your USB 1.0, 2.0 or 3.0 ports, this USB-A to RS232 converter works with your Windows, MacOS or Linux system
  • PORTABLE DESIGN: ?Powered by a USB port, this USB to RS232 serial adapter cable?features a lightweight design?that conveniently fits into your carrying case, making it ideal for professionals on the go
  • USB TO SERIAL ADAPTER SPECS: 17in (43cm) Cable Length | Max Baud 921.6 Kbps | 512 Byte FIFO | Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux | Prolific PL2303GT Chipset | Odd, Even, Mark, Space, or None Parity Modes | 5/6/7/8 Data Bits
  • THE IT PRO'S CHOICE: Designed and built for IT Professionals, this USB to serial converter cable is backed for 3-years, including free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance

Full Specifications

BrandStarTech.com
ColorGray
FinishMetallic
Unit Count1 Count
ConnectivityUSB
Model NumberICUSB232V2
CompatibilityMac, Linux
Input Voltage232 volts
Warranty TypeLimited
Built-In Media1 - USB to RS232 Adapter, 1 - Instruction Manual
Connector TypeSerial/USB
Item Type NameData Transfer Cable
Item Dimensions16.9 x 1.4 x 0.8 inches
Mfr Part NumberICUSB232V2
Number of Items1
Number of Ports1
Power Plug TypeNo Plug
Compatible DevicesBar Code Reader, POS terminals, Scanner, industrial equipment, serial modems
BROAD COMPATIBILITYCompatible with your USB 1.0, 2.0 or 3.0 ports, this USB-A to RS232 converter works with your Windows, MacOS or Linux system
Warranty Description3 Year

Ready to buy?

StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, M/M, 43cm (ICUSB232V2) is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

Buy on Amazon — $27.60

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-21. Price and availability subject to change.

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StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, M/M, 43cm (ICUSB232V2)
$27.60
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