Linux operating system has become increasingly popular among technology enthusiasts due to its open-source nature and flexibility. One common task for Linux users is connecting serial devices through USB ports, which can sometimes be a daunting experience. In this article, we will discuss how to use Linux USB to serial adapters to connect and communicate with serial devices.
Serial devices, such as microcontrollers, sensors, and other hardware components, often use RS-232 or RS-485 communication protocols. These devices require a physical serial port for communication, which is not commonly found on modern computers. To connect a serial device to a computer without a physical serial port, a USB to serial adapter is needed.
Linux has built-in support for USB to serial adapters, making it easy to communicate with serial devices. The commonly used USB to serial chipsets, such as FTDI and Prolific, are supported by the Linux kernel. When you plug in a USB to serial adapter, the Linux kernel automatically detects the device and creates a corresponding serial device file, such as /dev/ttyUSB0 or /dev/ttyACM0.
To communicate with a serial device using a USB to serial adapter, you can use terminal-based serial communication programs such as minicom or screen. These programs allow you to send and receive data to and from the serial device through the USB to serial adapter.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a USB to serial adapter in Linux:
1. Plug in the USB to serial adapter into a USB port on your computer.
2. Open a terminal window and run the command "dmesg | grep tty" to see the device file created for the USB to serial adapter, such as /dev/ttyUSB0.
3. Run the command "sudo chmod 666 /dev/ttyUSB0" to give read and write permissions to the device file.
4. Install a terminal-based serial communication program such as minicom by running the command "sudo apt-get install minicom".
5. Configure minicom to use the correct serial port (/dev/ttyUSB0) and communication settings (baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity).
6. Connect to the serial device by running the command "sudo minicom -D /dev/ttyUSB0".
Once connected, you can send and receive data to and from the serial device using the terminal-based serial communication program. This allows you to interact with the serial device and perform tasks such as programming microcontrollers or reading sensor data.
In conclusion, Linux USB to serial adapters provide an easy and convenient way to communicate with serial devices on Linux operating systems. With built-in support for USB to serial chipsets and terminal-based serial communication programs, connecting and communicating with serial devices is a straightforward process on Linux. Whether you are a hobbyist, developer, or professional, Linux USB to serial adapters are essential tools for working with serial devices in the Linux environment.