North Building Technologies

To help you if wish to connect to the Compass Network when the PC has no RS232 Com Port, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions.

How can I connect to the Compass Network if my PC doesn't have a RS232 COM Port?

Although it is recommended that any Personal Computer (including laptops) that is to use ObSys has at least one serial port (see our guide on System Requirements for ObSys for further information), today many PCs are being manufactured only with USB ports. This is certainly true with laptops, which are a useful tool for applications such as demonstrations, site visits and commissioning.

In order for a PC with a USB port to connect on to a Compass Network the engineer will require a standard COL Compass Point and an USB to RS232 converter. These are a combination of hardware (a serial RS232 port to USB cable) and software (an emulation driver which makes the Windows operating system believe that a traditional serial port exists).

Where can I get such a product?

North have tested several USB to RS232 converters with our product range, and can now supply this item. Please contact our sales team for pricing.

Order code: MISC/USBCONV

If you are still having difficulties connecting via a USB port, or have any feedback on this topic please contact our support team for further information.

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