PEX2S553 Startech Dual Port Native PCI Express with 16550 Serial Adapter

Explore High-Performance Serial Communication with the PEX2S553 Startech Dual Port PCI Express Serial Adapter

The PEX2S553 Startech Dual Port Native PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card is engineered for professionals who require robust and efficient serial connectivity in modern computing environments. Designed with the advanced 16550 UART chipset, this dual-port RS232 serial adapter offers a seamless and native PCIe interface that supports legacy and industrial serial devices. It’s a go-to solution for users in industrial automation, point-of-sale (POS) systems, networking equipment, and data acquisition environments.

Native PCI Express Architecture: Unleashing True Performance

Unlike legacy PCI-based solutions, the PEX2S553 uses a native PCI Express (PCIe) single-chip design, eliminating the need for a bridge chip and minimizing latency. This direct connection to the PCIe bus enhances throughput and provides consistent data transmission performance. It is an ideal option for systems requiring high-speed, stable serial communication across multiple devices.

Advantages of Native PCIe Design

• Optimized for low CPU utilization and increased reliability
• Eliminates bottlenecks associated with bridged architectures
• Ensures faster communication with fewer dropped packets
• Supports advanced PCI Express power management

Dual Port RS232 Serial Interface for Flexible Connectivity

The dual-port configuration of the PEX2S553 allows simultaneous connections with two independent RS232 serial devices. Whether you are connecting barcode scanners, receipt printers, industrial sensors, or modems, this card supports flexible device integration. It is an indispensable tool for businesses managing legacy equipment with modern systems.

Versatile Device Compatibility

• Supports serial modems, plotters, terminals, and control systems
• Ideal for point-of-sale terminals and ATM applications
• Industrial and lab-grade devices such as oscilloscopes and controllers
• Compatible with remote data collection hardware

16550 UART Chipset: Stability and Precision in Data Communication

Integrated with the reliable 16550 UART chipset, the adapter provides a 16-byte FIFO buffer for both receive and transmit operations. This buffering capability allows the adapter to handle high-speed serial data without overwhelming the host CPU or risking data loss. It’s perfect for applications where large data packets are transmitted at higher baud rates.

Key Features of 16550 UART

• Enhanced buffer management for high-speed operations
• Supports baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps
• Interrupt-driven I/O with flow control capabilities
• Enables multitasking and reduces CPU overhead

Plug-and-Play Compatibility with Leading Operating Systems

The Startech PEX2S553 adapter card supports a broad range of operating systems, making deployment across various environments easy and efficient. This cross-platform compatibility allows IT administrators and developers to standardize their serial communication hardware, regardless of the operating system in use.

Operating System Support

• Microsoft Windows® 11 / 10 / 8 / 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Linux distributions with kernel version 2.6.x and above
• Windows Server 2016 / 2019 / 2022
• Custom embedded systems with PCIe slot access

Easy Installation and Low-Profile Design for Space-Constrained Systems

The PEX2S553 features a compact, low-profile form factor, making it compatible with both standard and small form factor (SFF) cases. This makes the adapter especially suitable for industrial PCs, rack-mounted servers, and space-limited installations. It includes both standard and low-profile brackets in the package.

Mounting Options and Bracket Features

• Standard bracket pre-installed for full-size towers
• Low-profile bracket included for slim desktops and servers
• Tool-less mounting with easy screw-on options
• Gold-plated contacts for enhanced durability and signal integrity

Hardware-Level Flow Control and Compatibility

With support for hardware flow control protocols such as RTS/CTS and DSR/DTR, the adapter ensures smooth data exchange between devices. This prevents buffer overruns and guarantees that high-speed data transfers remain accurate and secure across all connected peripherals.

Supported Serial Communication Modes

• Full-duplex asynchronous communication
• Hardware and software flow control
• Adjustable IRQ and I/O settings (via device manager)
• Shared IRQ capability for optimized port usage

Ideal Use Cases for the PEX2S553 Serial Adapter Card

The PEX2S553 is not limited to a single use case; it serves a broad range of professional and industrial scenarios. Its robust design and comprehensive OS support make it ideal for use in development labs, production lines, IT infrastructures, and customer-facing POS systems.

Industrial and Commercial Use Cases

• Manufacturing automation: connect to PLCs and sensor controllers
• Laboratory data acquisition systems
• Remote monitoring via telemetry equipment
• Retail POS terminals and receipt printing solutions
• Networking and telecommunications infrastructure

Integration with Legacy Systems

Many enterprises still rely on legacy equipment with serial interfaces. The PEX2S553 serves as a critical bridge between these older devices and modern computing systems, allowing continued productivity without the need for full system upgrades or rewrites of specialized control software.

Reliable Build Quality and Trusted Brand Backing

Manufactured by Startech, a trusted name in connectivity and expansion hardware, the PEX2S553 embodies quality and longevity. Startech's commitment to rigorous testing and high-quality components ensures this adapter delivers consistent performance even in demanding environments.

Durability and Compliance Standards

• RoHS compliant for environmental sustainability
• CE and FCC certified for safety and electromagnetic compatibility
• Built with high-quality capacitors and resistors
• Backed by Startech's lifetime warranty and free lifetime technical support

High-Speed Data Transfer for Enhanced Productivity

With baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps, the PEX2S553 ensures that data-intensive operations are not slowed by transmission delays. This makes it suitable for high-volume transaction environments or for transmitting larger packets of control or diagnostic data.

Application Scenarios for High-Speed Transfer

• Real-time process monitoring and feedback loops
• Remote diagnostics and telemetry data uploads
• Serial firmware upgrades and large data transfers
• Batch printing or logging systems in server environments

Scalable and Expandable for Future-Proof System Designs

Whether building a new workstation or retrofitting an existing industrial system, the PEX2S553 enables scalable expansion of serial capabilities. With its two dedicated RS232 ports, it provides a simple way to increase serial device connectivity without external USB-to-serial hubs or converters.

Expandable System Architecture Benefits

• Supports addition of more PCIe serial cards in multi-slot motherboards
• Reduces cable clutter by internalizing serial connections
• Maintains consistency in system design with dedicated ports
• Compatible with PCIe x1, x4, x8, and x16 slots

Driver and Firmware Support for Seamless Deployment

Drivers are readily available for all major operating systems, ensuring plug-and-play installation. Startech provides downloadable drivers, documentation, and software support tools, making deployment and troubleshooting straightforward for IT teams and developers.

Technical Support and Resources

• Extensive online knowledge base and FAQs
• Step-by-step driver installation guides
• Live technical support via phone or chat
• Firmware update notifications and changelogs

Comparative Advantages

• Native PCIe vs. bridge chip designs ensures lower latency
• Includes low-profile bracket for universal installation
• Lifetime support from a well-established hardware manufacturer
• Superior electrical isolation and interference resistance

Customer Satisfaction and Industry Adoption

Customers in automation, defense, telecommunications, and retail sectors consistently rate the PEX2S553 as reliable and efficient. The adapter's proven track record in mission-critical environments adds to its credibility and long-term value.