The KB232 RS-232 keyboard adapter allows a PS/2-style keyboard to be connected to an RS-232 computer port or other equipment using RS-232 communications. The KB232 can be useful in embedded computing environments when PS/2 or USB ports are not available.

The adapter translates PS/2 keyboard keys to ASCII and the keyboard repeat delay and repeat rate can be configured by the user. Caps Lock and Num Lock keys operate as expected. Their initial on/off state when power is applied can also be configured. Five emulation modes are available. These options are "TTY ASCII" terminal, "ANSI" terminal, "VT-220/320" terminal, and "PC" terminal. Terminal emulation options are available for nonASCII keys such as the arrow keys, Home, End, etc.

The adapter also offers flexible RS-232 settings. Options include bit rates of 9600, 4800, 2400, and 1200 bps and parity selections of even, odd, or none are available. Custom keyboard mappings can be loaded to change the ASCII character (or characters) assigned to the keyboard keys. The KB232 can draw power from the RS-232 connection, which allows some keyboards to work without any other power source. Keyboard LED operation can be disabled to save power. The KB232 PS/2 to RS-232 Keyboard Adapter with manual costs $79.

L3 Systems
(425) 836-5438
www.l3sys.com