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10 Best Pcie Serial Port Card in 2026

This guide compares the top 10 Pcie Serial Port Card models for 2026 to help you choose the best solution for industrial, office, and legacy system connectivity

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In this guide
  1. 01Top 3 picks
  2. 02Compare all 10
  3. 03In-depth reviews
  4. 04Buying guide
  5. 05Use and care
  6. 06Common questions
  7. 07Final verdict

Finding the right Pcie Serial Port Card can be challenging when modern motherboards lack legacy ports. These expansion cards restore vital connectivity for industrial machines, POS systems, and legacy hardware requiring reliable serial communication standards.

We evaluated ten top-rated models based on chipset reliability, port count, bracket options, and driver support across Windows and Linux platforms. Our analysis focuses on real-world performance for automation, control systems, and data acquisition tasks.

Each pick below highlights key strengths and trade-offs to help you match the card to your specific use case. Note that prices fluctuate frequently, so verify current listings before purchasing to ensure you get the best value for your budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Pcie Serial Port Card

Best Budget

Dual Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card for Windows XP
Dual Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card for Windows XP

4.5Editor score

ASIX AX99100 solution
Dual independent serial ports
Full and low profile brackets
Compatible with Windows and Linux

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Editor's Choice

StarTech 2-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX2S953LP)
StarTech 2-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX2S953LP)

4.9Editor score

16950 UART chipset included
256 byte FIFO buffer
Configurable power pin 9
Full and low profile brackets

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Best Premium

StarTech 1-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX1S953LP)
StarTech 1-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX1S953LP)

4.2Editor score

16950 UART based
Up to 921.6Kbps speeds
Configurable power options available
TAA compliant for government use

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Top 10 Best Pcie Serial Port Card in 2026 Compared

The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten selected Pcie Serial Port Card models. We highlight core specifications such as chipset type, port count, maximum data rates, and bracket configurations to help you quickly identify the best fit for your specific hardware setup and operational requirements.

ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
1PCIE-SE2 2-Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card

Best Budget

PCIE-SE2 2-Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card
ASIX AX99100 chipset
2 RS232 ports
Full and low profile brackets
Windows and Linux support
4.5Editor score

Check price

2StarTech 1-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card

Editor's Choice

StarTech 1-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card
16950 UART based
1 RS232 port
256 byte FIFO buffer
Configurable power pin 9
4.2Editor score

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3Dual Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card

Best Budget

Dual Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card
ASIX AX99100 solution
2 independent ports
Full and low profile brackets
Windows and Linux compatible
4.5Editor score

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4StarTech 2-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card

StarTech 2-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card
16950 UART based
2 RS232 ports
Configurable power options
TAA compliant standard
4.9Editor score

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5StarTech 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card

StarTech 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card
PCI Express 1.0a
2 RS232 ports
Up to 460Kbps rate
Standard and low profile
4.2Editor score

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6PCIe Combo Serial Parallel Expansion Card

PCIe Combo Serial Parallel Expansion Card
WCH382 Chipset
1 Serial 1 Parallel
IEEE 1284 compliant
Windows and Linux OS
4.3Editor score

Check price

72-Port PCIe RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card

2-Port PCIe RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card
ASIX AX99100 solution
2 RS232 ports
Full and low profile brackets
Windows and Linux support
3.7Editor score

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8VANTEC 2-Port Serial RS-232 PCIE Host Card

VANTEC 2-Port Serial RS-232 PCIE Host Card
2 RS232 ports
Standard PCIe interface
DB9 connector type
Desktop PC compatible
5.0Editor score

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92-Port PCIe Serial Expansion Card with Industrial DB9

2-Port PCIe Serial Expansion Card with Industrial DB9
WCH382 Chipset
2 RS232 ports
16C550 UART support
Up to 230400Bps
4.2Editor score

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10Single Port PCI Express x1 RS232 Serial Adapter Card

Single Port PCI Express x1 RS232 Serial Adapter Card
MCS9922 Chipset
1 RS232 port
256 byte FIFO
Low profile form factor
4.3Editor score

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1. StarTech PEX2S953LP – Best Overall Pcie Serial Port Card

StarTech 2-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX2S953LP)4.9Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
StarTech 2-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX2S953LP)
ASIX AX99100 chipset
2 independent DB9 ports
Up to 921.6Kbps speed
Full and low profile bracket

This StarTech dual-port card stands out as our top recommendation for industrial and enterprise users requiring reliable high-performance connectivity. With a 16950 UART equivalent chipset and generous buffer memory, it ensures robust data transmission even under heavy load conditions common in automation environments.

Pros

  • High-speed UART support
  • Configurable power options
  • TAA compliance included
  • Excellent driver support

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Driver installation required

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The standout quality is its configurable power pin 9 feature, which allows the card to supply 5V or 12V power directly to connected devices. This eliminates the need for separate power adapters for many serial peripherals like GPS units and sensors, simplifying cabling significantly.

While the price is higher than budget options, the TAA compliance and comprehensive bracket kit justify the cost for professional deployments. The only trade-off is the requirement for manual driver installation on some legacy systems, though modern Windows versions often handle this automatically.

If you are upgrading a factory floor or lab setup with multiple serial devices, this card offers the stability and features you need. It is the most versatile option for users who prioritize performance and compliance over initial cost savings.

Power and Flexibility

The configurable power pin allows direct power delivery to peripherals, reducing clutter and external adapter needs for connected devices.

Professional Compliance

TAA compliance makes this card suitable for government contracts and regulated industries that require strict procurement adherence standards.

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2. Dual Port PCIE Card – Best Budget Pcie Serial Port Card

Dual Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card for Windows XP, Vista,7, 8.x, 10, 11 32/64bit and Linux PCs, PCIE 2X DB9 Card4.5Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
Dual Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card for Windows XP
ASIX AX99100 chipset
2 independent serial ports
Full and low profile bracket
Windows and Linux support

This budget-friendly dual-port card delivers exceptional value by featuring the same ASIX AX99100 chipset found in more expensive alternatives. It provides two independent RS232 ports that connect seamlessly to industrial equipment, POS systems, and legacy devices without compromising on core functionality.

Pros

  • Extremely affordable price
  • Same chipset as premium cards
  • Includes low profile bracket
  • Linux compatibility available

Cons

  • Driver CD may be outdated
  • Brand support varies

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Its main strength lies in its compatibility and affordability. The card supports both Windows and Linux operating systems and includes both full-size and low-profile brackets. This makes it suitable for standard desktop towers as well as compact 2U rack-mounted servers or slim form factor PCs.

The trade-off is that support relies heavily on the provided driver CD, which may require manual compilation for newer Linux kernels. However, for users who understand basic driver installation, the performance is identical to pricier models at half the cost.

If you need to add two serial ports to a workstation on a tight budget, this card is the most cost-effective solution. It is ideal for small offices or hobbyists who need reliable connectivity without investing in premium enterprise branding.

Value Proposition

You get the same high-quality chipset as premium cards but at a fraction of the price, making it perfect for budget-conscious upgrades.

Server Compatibility

The included low-profile bracket ensures the card fits easily into slim servers and small form factor cases without extra modification.

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3. StarTech PEX1S953LP – Best Premium Single Port Card

StarTech 1-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX1S953LP)4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
StarTech 1-Port PCI Express RS232 Serial Adapter Card, TAA (PEX1S953LP)
16950 UART based
1 RS232 port
Up to 921.6Kbps speed
TAA compliance standard

StarTech is a trusted name in connectivity, and this single-port card reflects their commitment to quality. It uses a 16950 UART chipset to deliver high-speed bi-directional communication up to 921.6Kbps. This speed is crucial for data acquisition systems that require precise timing and throughput.

Pros

  • Fast UART speeds
  • TAA compliant for govt
  • Power pin 9 options
  • Reliable StarTech brand

Cons

  • Only one port provided
  • Higher cost per port

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The premium aspect comes from its TAA compliance, which is essential for US government procurement and regulated industries. Additionally, the configurable power pin allows you to supply power to connected devices, reducing cable clutter and external adapter needs for GPS units or sensors.

The primary drawback is the single-port limitation, which means you may need multiple cards if you have several devices. However, the reliability and compliance features make it worth the extra cost for critical applications where downtime is not an option.

If you are working on a government contract or a critical industrial system, this card ensures you meet compliance standards while maintaining high performance. It is the best choice for single-device needs in professional and regulated environments.

Regulatory Compliance

TAA compliance ensures the product meets strict government procurement standards required for federal contracts and regulated industries.

Power Delivery

Configurable power options on pin 9 allow direct power to peripherals, simplifying setup and reducing external power requirements.

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4. PCIE-SE2 – Reliable Dual Port Solution

PCIE-SE2 2-Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card for Windows XP, Vista,7, 8.x, 10, 11 32/64bit and Linux PCs, PCIE RS232 Card, PCIE Serial DB9 Port Card4.5Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
PCIE-SE2 2-Port PCI Express RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card
ASIX AX99100 chipset
2 RS232 ports
Full and low profile brackets
Windows and Linux support

The PCIE-SE2 is a straightforward and reliable dual-port expansion card designed for desktops and industrial PCs. It leverages the ASIX AX99100 solution which includes an on-chip 256-byte FIFO buffer. This hardware buffer helps maintain stable data flow and reduces the risk of data loss during transmission spikes.

Pros

  • Proven AX99100 chip
  • Full bracket kit included
  • Supports Linux kernels
  • Easy physical installation

Cons

  • Driver installation needed
  • Standard price range

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It supports a wide range of Windows versions from XP to 11 and includes options for Linux kernel compilation. The card comes with both full-size and low-profile brackets, making it versatile for standard towers or compact cases. This flexibility is useful for mixed environments where case sizes vary.

Users must install drivers from the included CD, which is a common requirement for expansion cards but adds a small step to setup. However, the installation process is well-documented and generally smooth across supported operating systems.

This card is an excellent choice for users needing a balance of reliability and affordability. It works well for connecting POS systems, scanners, and control devices in environments where consistent connectivity is key to operations.

FIFO Buffer

The built-in 256-byte FIFO buffer ensures data integrity by temporarily storing packets during high traffic transmission periods.

Bracket Flexibility

Included brackets fit both standard desktops and slim PCs, offering adaptability for various case styles without extra purchases.

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5. StarTech PEX2S1050 – Standard 2-Port Card

StarTech 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card, TAA Windows Compatible (PEX2S1050)4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
StarTech 2-Port PCI Express Serial Card
PCI Express 1.0a
2 RS232 ports
Up to 460Kbps speed
Standard and low profile

This model meets industry standards with its PCI Express 1.0a compliance and offers two robust serial ports for manufacturing and security applications. It supports data transfer rates up to 460Kbps, which is sufficient for most control signals and telemetry data. The card also features IRQ sharing for flexible system resource management.

Pros

  • StarTech reliability
  • Plug and play support
  • IRQ sharing features
  • TAA compliant option

Cons

  • Slower transfer speeds
  • Older PCIe spec

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It is designed for maximum compatibility with manufacturing equipment and security devices. The plug-and-play connection simplifies setup, as the system automatically detects and configures the card upon installation. This reduces the need for complex manual configuration steps during deployment.

While the transfer speed is lower than high-end 16950 UART cards, it is adequate for legacy systems that do not require extreme throughput. The main limitation is the older PCIe specification, which might not be optimized for modern high-performance motherboards.

If you are upgrading an existing POS or security system that does not need high-speed data, this card is a reliable and compliant choice. It is best suited for users who value brand trust over cutting-edge speed specifications.

Standard Compliance

Compliance with PCI Express 1.0a standards ensures compatibility with a wide range of legacy and modern motherboard slots.

Ease of Setup

Plug-and-play features and IRQ sharing simplify installation, making it accessible for users with limited technical expertise.

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6. PCIe Combo Card – Unique Serial and Parallel Mix

PCIe Combo Serial Parallel Expansion Card PCI Express to Printer LPT Port RS232 Com Port Adapter IEEE 1284 Controller Card WCH382 Chip for Desktop PC Windows 10 with Low Bracket4.3Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
PCIe Combo Serial Parallel Expansion Card
WCH382 Chipset
1 Serial 1 Parallel port
IEEE 1284 compliant
Windows and Linux OS

This unique expansion card solves the problem when you need both a serial and a parallel port. It supports the IEEE 1284 standard for the parallel port, enabling faster data rates up to 1.5Mbps. This is particularly useful for legacy printers and specialized industrial controllers that rely on parallel communication.

Pros

  • Two interface types
  • High parallel data rates
  • Supports IEEE 1284
  • Easy installation process

Cons

  • Not for RS232 only
  • Driver install needed

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The serial port follows standard RS232 protocols, making it compatible with common DB9 devices. The WCH382 chipset ensures stable operation across Windows and Linux platforms. Installation involves opening the CH38XDRV file on the provided CD, which is a straightforward process for most users.

Since this card offers a mix of ports, it is not ideal if you exclusively need multiple serial interfaces. However, for environments where you need to connect both a legacy printer and a serial control device, it saves space and PCI slots.

If your workflow requires both interface types in a single card, this is a practical and cost-effective solution. It is best for offices or workstations with mixed legacy hardware requirements that cannot be replaced easily.

Dual Interface Utility

One card provides both serial and parallel connectivity, reducing the number of expansion cards needed for mixed legacy setups.

Parallel Speed

IEEE 1284 compliance ensures faster data transfer on the parallel port, improving throughput for legacy printers and peripherals.

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7. PCIe Dual Serial Card – Fast Data Transfer Option

2-Port PCIe RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card - Windows XP/7/8/10/11 & Linux Compatible (32/64bit) for Fast Data Transfer (PCIe1X Dual Serial Card)3.7Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
2-Port PCIe RS-232 DB9 Serial Port Card
ASIX AX99100 solution
2 RS232 ports
Full and low profile brackets
Windows and Linux support

This dual-port card focuses on fast data transfer capabilities using the ASIX AX99100 solution. It provides two independent RS232 ports suitable for POS systems, security systems, and logistics management equipment. The hardware supports stable transmission performance with a 256-byte deep FIFO buffer.

Pros

  • AX99100 chipset
  • Multiple bracket options
  • Compatible with Linux
  • Supports POS and security

Cons

  • Lower average rating
  • Driver issues reported

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It comes with a standard full-size bracket and two low-profile brackets, offering flexibility for slim PCs and standard desktops. The card is compatible with a wide range of Windows versions and various Linux kernels. This broad OS support makes it a versatile choice for mixed environment setups.

Some users have reported occasional driver installation challenges which can lower the average rating. Ensuring you have the correct drivers from the Mini-CD is essential for optimal performance. Users should be prepared to troubleshoot if initial installation does not succeed.

Despite the mixed reviews, the hardware quality remains solid for industrial and office use. If you need two serial ports and have some technical confidence, this card offers the features you need at a reasonable price point.

Transmission Stability

The deep FIFO buffer helps maintain stable serial data transmission, reducing packet loss during high-traffic industrial operations.

Slim PC Support

Multiple low-profile brackets are included to ensure the card fits perfectly into compact and slim computer cases.

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8. VANTEC 2-Port Card – Compact Solution

VANTEC 2-Port Serial RS-232 PCIE Host Card5.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
VANTEC 2-Port Serial RS-232 PCIE Host Card
2 RS232 ports
Standard PCIe interface
DB9 connector type
Desktop PC compatible

VANTEC is known for reliable connectivity solutions, and this host card delivers two solid RS-232 serial ports for desktop systems. It has a perfect rating based on user feedback, indicating consistent performance and ease of use. The card provides the necessary DB9 connectors for standard serial peripherals.

Pros

  • Perfect rating
  • Compact design
  • Reliable connectivity
  • Simple installation

Cons

  • Limited product info
  • No bracket details

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While specific technical details are sparse, the card functions effectively as a host controller for serial communication. It is designed for standard desktop PCs and integrates seamlessly into existing systems. Users appreciate its simplicity and the fact that it works out of the box with minimal configuration.

The lack of extensive marketing specs means you may need to verify bracket sizes before purchase. However, for users who prioritize reliability and a clean interface, this card is a trusted option. It avoids unnecessary complexity in favor of straightforward functionality.

If you need a reliable dual-port solution without extra features, this VANTEC card is a safe choice. It is best suited for general office use where consistent serial connectivity is required for peripheral management.

Reliability

Perfect user ratings reflect consistent performance and dependability for standard serial communication tasks in desktop environments.

Simplicity

The card focuses on core functionality without extra features, ensuring a straightforward user experience for basic needs.

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9. Industrial DB9 Expansion Card – Fast Uart Ports

2-Port PCIe Serial Expansion Card with Industrial DB9 RS232 COM Ports, 16C550 UART WCH382 Chip for Windows XP, Vista,7, 8.x, 10, 11 32/64bit and Linux PCs, Low Bracket Included4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
2-Port PCIe Serial Expansion Card with Industrial DB9
WCH382 Chipset
2 RS232 ports
16C550 UART support
Up to 230400Bps

This industrial-grade expansion card provides two fast serial ports using the WCH382 chipset. It supports 16C550 UART standards to enable data transfer rates up to 230400Bps. This speed is ideal for devices that require quick communication without the overhead of high-end 921Kbps hardware.

Pros

  • Industrial DB9 ports
  • Fast UART transfer
  • IRQ sharing support
  • Low bracket included

Cons

  • Standard speed range
  • Driver install needed

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The card supports plug and play functionality with automatic IRQ and IO address selection. This reduces manual configuration steps during installation. It also includes a low-profile bracket, making it suitable for compact servers or desktop cases where space is limited.

Operating system support covers a wide range of Windows versions and Linux platforms. Users should be prepared to install drivers from the provided CD for best compatibility. The process is standard for expansion cards and typically takes just a few minutes to complete.

If you need industrial-grade durability and decent speed for factory or lab equipment, this card is a strong candidate. It balances performance and cost effectively for applications that do not require the absolute highest throughput speeds available.

UART Speed

Support for 16C550 UART allows faster data rates, improving responsiveness for industrial sensors and control systems.

Space Saving

Included low-profile brackets ensure the card fits easily into compact cases without requiring extra adapters or modifications.

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10. Single Port Card – Simple and Effective

Single Port PCI Express x1 RS232 Serial Adapter Card - PCIe RS232 Serial Host Controller to Single Serial DB9 Port4.3Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
Single Port PCI Express x1 RS232 Serial Adapter Card
MCS9922 Chipset
1 RS232 port
256 byte FIFO
Low profile form factor

This single-port adapter is designed for users who need just one reliable DB9 connection. It uses the MCS9922 chipset which is compliant with the 16C550 UART standard. The card supports hardware and software flow control, allowing flexible management of data transmission between devices.

Pros

  • Low profile form
  • 256 byte FIFO buffer
  • Hardware flow control
  • PCI Express 1.0a

Cons

  • Single port only
  • No low bracket info

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A key feature is its low-profile form factor, which makes it ideal for compact or slim desktop systems. It supports transfer data rates up to 250Kbps on the port. This is sufficient for most standard serial devices such as control modules or configuration terminals.

The card is fully compliant with PCI Express base Specification Revision 1.0a. It supports single-lane throughput with up to 2.5Gbps bandwidth. This ensures the card will not bottleneck standard serial devices that operate at much lower speeds.

If you have a single device that needs to connect via serial, this is a cost-effective and reliable solution. It is best for environments where minimalism is preferred and additional ports are not required in the system setup.

Flow Control

Support for hardware and software flow control ensures data integrity during transmission and prevents buffer overflows.

Form Factor

Low profile design saves space in compact cases, allowing for cleaner builds in small form factor desktop computers.

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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Pcie Serial Port Card

Selecting the right Pcie Serial Port Card requires understanding your connectivity needs, case compatibility, and software requirements. This guide breaks down the critical factors to help you make an informed decision for your specific setup.

Port Count and Type

The first factor to consider is how many ports you need. Most cards offer either one or two ports. If you have multiple serial devices like scanners, POS systems, or industrial controllers, a dual-port card is more efficient. Ensure the connectors match your devices, typically DB9 RS232.

Choose a port count that matches your current device list and any near-future expansions. A dual-port card often offers better value than two single-port cards.

Chipset Performance

The chipset determines data speed and reliability. Look for cards using ASIX AX99100 or 16950/16C550 UART chipsets. These provide larger FIFO buffers which reduce data loss during high traffic. Avoid generic or unbranded chipsets that may struggle with stable connections.

Prioritize established chipsets like ASIX or Texas Instruments for industrial or mission-critical applications where reliability is paramount.

Bracket Size and Case Fit

Your computer case dictates which bracket size you need. Standard desktop towers use full-height brackets, while slim or mini-ITX cases require low-profile brackets. Many cards include both, but verify before purchase. Using the wrong bracket may prevent installation or damage the case.

Check your PC case documentation or measure the available height. If you have a slim PC, ensure low-profile brackets are included or available separately.

Operating System Support

Windows support is common, but Linux users must verify kernel compatibility. Some cards require driver compilation on Linux which can be complex. Check the manufacturer documentation to confirm support for your specific OS version. Most modern cards support Windows XP through Windows 11.

If you run Linux, ensure the vendor provides stable drivers or documentation for compiling source code. Avoid cards that do not list Linux support explicitly.

Power Supply and Options

Some devices require power over the serial port, delivered via pin 9. High-end cards offer configurable power options like 5V or 12V. This allows the card to power connected peripherals directly. If your devices draw power from the port, this feature is essential to avoid external adapters.

If you are connecting GPS units or sensors that draw power, select a card with configurable power pin 9 to simplify your setup.

Regulatory Compliance

For government or enterprise use, compliance like TAA may be required. TAA ensures the product meets procurement standards for US federal contracts. While not needed for personal use, it is a critical differentiator in regulated industries that demand certified hardware components.

Check procurement requirements if you are buying for a government agency. If TAA compliance is not required, standard enterprise cards will suffice.

Data Transfer Rates

Different applications have different speed requirements. Standard serial ports operate at 115200bps but faster UARTs support up to 921.6Kbps. Industrial sensors and data loggers benefit from higher rates. Ensure the card supports the speed your devices require to avoid bottlenecks.

Match the card's maximum speed to your devices capabilities. Most standard devices work fine, but high-throughput loggers need faster UART support.

Driver Availability

Most cards require driver installation for full functionality. Ensure the manufacturer provides drivers for your OS version. Some cards come with a CD but online drivers are more convenient. Lack of driver support can render the card unusable regardless of hardware quality.

Visit the manufacturer website to confirm driver availability before buying. Prefer vendors with active driver updates and technical support.

How to Use and Care for Your Pcie Serial Port Card

Before installing the card, shut down your computer and unplug the power cord. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge which can damage components. Locate an available PCIe x1 slot on your motherboard, as most serial cards fit in these slots. Remove the case cover and secure the bracket to the chassis.

After installation, boot your computer and install the drivers from the provided CD or download them from the vendor website. Once drivers are installed, restart the system and check Device Manager to ensure the card is recognized without errors. Connect your serial devices to the DB9 ports.

Regularly inspect the connectors for dust or debris which can cause connection failures. Avoid yanking cables during removal to prevent damage to the ports. If you experience data loss, try adjusting the flow control settings in your serial communication software to match your device requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a driver to use a PCIe serial port card?

Yes, most expansion cards require drivers to function correctly within your operating system. While some modern Windows versions detect basic devices automatically, full functionality like high speeds and power options usually needs vendor drivers. Always install the software provided with the card or download it from the manufacturer website.

Can I use these cards in Windows 11?

Most modern cards in this guide are compatible with Windows 10 and 11. Verify the product details list Windows 11 support before purchasing. If you have an older card from a few years back, check the manufacturer website for updated drivers compatible with newer Windows versions.

What is the difference between 16550 and 16950 UART?

The primary difference is buffer size and speed capability. 16950 UART chips have larger buffers that handle higher data throughput without data loss. For modern applications involving high-speed data or long cable runs, a 16950 or ASIX equivalent chipset is recommended over older 16550 variants.

Do these cards fit in small or slim computer cases?

Many cards in this guide include low-profile brackets that fit slim cases. Always check the product specifications for bracket inclusion. If your case is extremely small, measure the available height before buying to ensure the bracket will clear the chassis opening.

Can I use a PCIe serial card with Linux?

Many cards support Linux but may require compiling source code or installing specific drivers. Cards using ASIX chipsets usually have good community support on Linux. Check the product documentation for kernel support and driver availability. Some models offer plug-and-play support for newer kernels.

What happens if I need more than two ports?

You can install multiple cards in available PCIe slots if your motherboard supports it. Ensure you have enough empty slots and physical space. Some motherboards may have BIOS limits on legacy devices, but for most standard setups multiple cards work well without issues.

Are these cards compatible with virtual machines?

You generally pass through the physical card to the guest OS for direct serial access. This requires a motherboard that supports PCIe pass-through. Without pass-through, you may need to map USB serial devices to the virtual machine instead of using the PCIe card.

Can I use these cards with a Mac computer?

Most of these cards are designed for Windows and Linux. Mac support is rare for PCIe expansion cards due to hardware and driver limitations. If you need serial ports on a Mac, consider USB to serial adapters specifically designed for macOS compatibility instead.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Pcie Serial Port Card

We recommend the StarTech 2-Port PEX2S953LP for users seeking the best balance of performance and reliability. It offers fast speeds, configurable power, and full bracket options that cover most use cases. For those on a tighter budget, the Dual Port PCIE Card with ASIX chipset delivers similar performance at a lower price.

When choosing a card, prioritize chipset reliability and bracket compatibility over minor price differences. Ensure your system has an available PCIe slot and that you have the correct drivers ready for installation. For industrial or government work, TAA compliance may be a deciding factor.

Prices for these cards fluctuate based on demand and availability so check current listings before buying. We hope this guide helps you find the right connectivity solution for your legacy or industrial needs. Feel free to reach out if you have questions about specific models or installation.