Understanding RS-232C and RS-449
Standards
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the RS-232C and RS-449
communication standards, which are crucial for serial data transmission in various electronic
devices. RS-232C is one of the most widely used standards for serial communication,
particularly in computer and peripheral connections. RS-449, on the other hand, is an
enhanced version that offers improved performance and capabilities. This document will
define both standards, explain their specifications, and highlight their applications.
RS-232C
Definition
RS-232C (Recommended Standard 232, Revision C) is a standard for serial communication
that defines the electrical characteristics and timing of signals, as well as the physical size and
pinout of connectors. It was developed in the 1960s and has become a fundamental standard
for connecting computers and peripheral devices.
Defines
Electrical
Characteristics
Connecting
Computers
Development Defines Timing Fundamental
in 1960s of Signals Standard
Connecting
Peripheral
Specifies Devices
Connector
Pinout
Key Features
• Voltage Levels: RS-232C uses voltage levels to represent binary data. A logical '1' is
represented by a voltage between -3 to -25 volts, while a logical '0' is represented by
a voltage between +3 to +25 volts.
• Signal Transmission: It supports asynchronous transmission, meaning that data can be
sent without a clock signal. Instead, start and stop bits are used to frame the data.
• Connector Types: The standard typically uses a 25-pin D-sub connector (DB-25) or a
9-pin D-sub connector (DB-9).
• Distance and Speed: RS-232C can transmit data over distances up to 50 feet (15
meters) at speeds of up to 115,200 bits per second (bps), although practical limits are
often lower.
Voltage Signal Connector Distance and
Levels Transmission Types Speed
Applications
RS-232C is commonly used in:
• Computer serial ports
• Modems
• Printers
• Data acquisition systems
RS-449
Definition
RS-449 is an enhanced version of the RS-232 standard, designed to provide better
performance and support for higher data rates and longer distances. It was developed to
address some of the limitations of RS-232C and is often used in more demanding
applications.
Enhanced
Performance
Applications
Support for
RS-232C Limitations Development in
Higher Data
Standard Identified of RS-449 Demanding
Rates
Environments
Support for
Longer
Distances
Key Features
• Voltage Levels: RS-449 uses different voltage levels compared to RS-232C, typically
ranging from -6 to -25 volts for a logical '1' and +6 to +25 volts for a logical '0'.
• Signal Transmission: Like RS-232C, RS-449 supports asynchronous transmission but can
also accommodate synchronous transmission, making it more versatile.
• Connector Types: RS-449 typically uses a 37-pin connector, which allows for additional
signals and control lines compared to RS-232C.
• Distance and Speed: RS-449 can transmit data over distances up to 4000 feet (1200
meters) at speeds of up to 2,048,000 bps, making it suitable for more extensive and
faster communication needs.
Voltage
Levels
Signal
Transmission
RS-449
Characteristics
Connector
Types
Distance and
Speed
Applications
RS-449 is often used in:
• High-speed data communication systems
• Telecommunications
• Industrial automation systems
Conclusion
Both RS-232C and RS-449 play significant roles in serial communication, each serving different
needs based on their specifications and capabilities. While RS-232C remains popular for
simpler applications, RS-449 provides enhanced performance for more demanding
environments. Understanding these standards is essential for anyone involved in designing or
working with serial communication systems.
