RS232 Shield for Arduino

The RS232 Shield for Arduino easily converts your microcontroller's UART interface to standard RS232 communication levels. Fitted with an onboard female DB9 connector and extra prototyping space, it is an ideal expansion board for makers, students, and engineers integrating legacy industrial equipment or computer serial ports with their Arduino projects.

Standard DB9 interface and pinout

The shield integrates a female DB9 port alongside standard RS232 header pins for versatile hardware hookups. Onboard transceiver indicator LEDs provide quick visual feedback during active serial data transfer.

Dedicated run and program switch

An onboard mode switch isolates the serial lines so you can flash code to your board without removing the shield. Switch it to the programming position to upload sketches, then toggle to the run position for standard RS232 operation.

Prototyping space and breakout headers

A dedicated welding area allows you to solder custom components directly onto unused board space. The shield breaks out 16 digital IO ports including an I2C interface, 6 analog IO ports, power lines, and an integrated reset button.

Board compatibility and gold immersion finish

Built on a durable gold immersion PCB, the shield features long passthrough pins compatible with standard Arduino form factors such as the Uno, Uno R3, Mega 1280/2560, and Leonardo. It runs on standard +5V operating voltage and measures 55mm by 53mm.

Reliable long-distance serial communication

While standard RS232 cable runs are rated up to 50ft at 19200 baud, lower baud rates allow extended cable reach. Operation at 9600 baud supports distances up to 500ft, reaching up to 1000ft at 4800 baud depending on cable capacitance and ambient noise.

Downloads & documentation

• Product wiki (DFRobot)