DB9 USB Connector/Converter

This looks pretty handy: A DB9-sized connector (i.e. RS-232 size) that converts RS-232 signals to a USB port.

With RS232 ports headed for extinction, this module will allow a lot of older embedded systems to communicate with modern PCs.

Here are the details:

The modules feature a standard USB 'mini-B' type connector in a module that fits the PCB footprint of a standard 9-pin DB9 connector. The modules are designed to provide a fast and simple method of replacing a DB9 RS232 interface with USB 2.0 connectivity, without the need to change an existing PCB board design.

Two DB9-USB-RS232 modules are available to replace male or female DB9 connector versions. The modules are targeted at systems equipped with legacy DB9 based RS232 connectors, which often face connection issues to modern PCs, laptops and other equipment. The modules provide a mechanism to extend the life cycle of these systems, while providing enhanced capability through the introduction of USB 2.0 connectivity available via the DB9-USB-RS232 modules.

Power for the module is provided by the USB connection (the host computer). Driver software is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, which "enable a device to be integrated as an additional, (virtual) COM port into an existing software application, thus offering quick and easy installation without the need for custom driver development or user software redesign."

Very cool!

Read more from Elektor: USB 2.0 module to replace DB9 RS232 connector on legacy boards, datasheet.