Chapter 5 Input/Output Interfaces
5-8 Compaq Deskpro Personal Computers
Third Edition – April 2001
5.4 SERIAL INTERFACE
All models include two serial interfaces to transmit and receive asynchronous serial data with
external devices. The serial interface function is provided by the LPC47B357 I/O controller
component that includes two NS16C550-compatible UARTs.
Each UART supports the standard baud rates up through 115200, and also special high speed rates
of 239400 and 460800 baud. The baud rate of the UART is typically set to match the capability of
the connected device. While most baud rates may be set at runtime, baud rates 230400 and
460800 must be set during the configuration phase.
5.4.1 RS-232 INTERFACE
On the legacy-light system, the UART is associated with a DB-9 connector that complies with
EIA standard RS-232-C. The DB-9 connector is shown in the following figure and the pinout of
the connector is listed in Table 5-5.
Figure 5-3. Serial Interface Connector (Male DB-9 as viewed from rear of chassis)
Table 5–7. DB-9 Serial Connector Pinout
Table 5-7.
      DB-9 Serial Connector Pinout
Pin Signal Description Pin Signal Description 
1  CD  Carrier Detect  6  DSR  Data Set Ready 
2  RX Data  Receive Data  7  RTS  Request To Send 
3  TX Data  Transmit Data  8  CTS  Clear To Send 
4  DTR  Data Terminal Ready  9  RI  Ring Indicator 
5 GND  Ground  --  --  -- 
The standard RS-232-C limitation of 50 feet (or less) of cable between the DTE (computer) and
DCE (modem) should be followed to minimize transmission errors. Higher baud rates may require
shorter cables.