What is an RS-232 interface?

RS-232 is a standard serial communication interface used to connect computers and peripheral devices. It defines the electrical characteristics and timing of signals, as well as the physical size and pinout of connectors. Commonly used for serial ports, RS-232 facilitates data transmission over short distances, typically up to 50 feet, at speeds ranging from 300 to 115200 bits per second. Despite its declining usage in favor of USB and other modern interfaces, it remains relevant in industrial and legacy systems.