Where did RS232 come from?

In the early 1960’s, a standards committee, today known as the Electronic Industries Association, developed a common interface standard for data communications equipment. At that time, data communications were thought to mean digital data exchange between a centrally located mainframe computer and a remote computer terminal, or possibly between two terminals without a computer involved.

These devices were linked by telephone voice lines and consequently required a modem at each end for signal translation. While simple in concept, the many opportunities for data error that occur when transmitting data through an analog channel, as it requires a relatively complex design.

It was thought that a standard was needed first to ensure reliable communication, and second to enable the interconnection of equipment produced by different manufacturers, thereby fostering the benefits of mass production and competition. From these ideas, the RS232 standard was born. It specified signal voltages, signal timing, signal function, a protocol for information exchange, and mechanical connectors.

If a proprietary or special high-speed transfer method is required by the CNC control, the customer may have to be upgraded to Predator DNC. Unlike the Editor, Predator DNC is designed to support proprietary and special high-speed transfer methods. Refer to our DNC Objects section for more details.