Black Box IC1157A

Overview

The Black Box IC1157A is a bidirectional converter designed to bridge RS-232 equipment with devices that use 5 V TTL logic levels. It automatically shifts voltage levels on both transmit and receive lines, enabling seamless communication between these two interfaces. Supporting serial data rates up to 115 kbps, it ensures responsive control and monitoring for applications involving sensors, relays, or microcontrollers without requiring an external power supply.

Key features

• Converts RS-232 signals to 5 V TTL and back on two independent channels, allowing full duplex communication for command-and-response or continuous data streaming
• Draws power directly from the RS-232 port, eliminating the need for additional power adapters and simplifying installation
• Compact housing designed to fit easily inside control cabinets or portable service kits, saving space in tight environments
• Plug-and-play operation with no jumpers, firmware, or special drivers required, making setup quick and straightforward
• Reliable performance at data rates up to 115 kbps, suitable for field service, prototyping, and permanent installations

Key specs

• Data rate: up to 115 kbps
• Voltage levels: RS-232 to 5 V TTL bidirectional conversion
• Connector type: DB9 male for RS-232 interface
• Power source: powered directly from RS-232 port
• Channels: two independent channels for transmit and receive

Installation and setup

Installation involves plugging the DB9 male connector into the RS-232 port and wiring the TTL side to the target device. The converter requires no configuration, jumpers, or drivers, allowing you to set your software to the desired baud rate and start communicating immediately. This simplicity makes it ideal for technicians working in the field, developers prototyping embedded systems, and system integrators managing compact control panels.

Ideal uses and environments

The IC1157A is well suited for industrial environments where legacy RS-232 equipment must interface with modern TTL-based devices. It fits naturally into field service toolkits for troubleshooting and maintenance of older machinery. Developers benefit from its straightforward connection when testing embedded prototypes, while system integrators appreciate its compact size for space-constrained control cabinets. Its ability to handle full duplex communication at practical data rates makes it a strong choice for applications requiring reliable, real-time data exchange.

Orders are processed within 2 business days, which includes verification, packing, and dispatch. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on destination, total weight, and selected speed. Free shipping applies to carts over $100 (excluding heavyweight items). All available options and final pricing are clearly shown before payment so you can choose the service that best fits your needs.

Deliveries are handled by major carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx. Estimated delivery times are displayed at checkout and may vary depending on service level and location. Please note that these are estimates and can be affected by weather, holidays, or carrier volume. Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking number for real-time updates from pickup to final delivery.

Providing an accurate shipping address helps prevent delays, and changes may be limited once the order has been dispatched. P.O. boxes are supported only when permitted by the selected carrier. Packaging and handoff are optimized to protect items during transit, though oversized or high-weight products may require special handling. All shipping methods and any related constraints are clearly shown during checkout.

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Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery. Items must be unused, in the same condition received, and include all tags, manuals, accessories, and original, unaltered packaging. To start a return, please email us for approval. Items sent back without approval may be refused or returned to the sender. If any item is kept, its value will be deducted from the refund.

Non-returnable items include opened TVs, combos, or monitors 37″ or larger, opened computers or software, electronic downloads, opened consumables (film, paper, bulbs, media, ink), custom or modified computers, special-order or “nonreturnable” items, submerged underwater gear, and opened educational media.

After inspection, refunds are issued to the original payment method. Please allow 5–7 business days for the credit to post. Shipping and handling are nonrefundable. If an item is used, incomplete, or not in its original condition, a 30% restocking fee may apply. Direct exchanges are not offered. To exchange an item, please purchase the replacement separately and return the original for a refund.

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We act solely as a reseller. Any product warranty is provided and administered by the manufacturer, not by our store. That means eligibility, coverage, and outcomes are determined by the manufacturer’s policy for each brand and model. Before purchasing, we recommend reviewing the warranty terms on the manufacturer’s website or in the product documentation to confirm what is covered and for how long.

If you need warranty service, please file the claim directly with the manufacturer. They may require proof of purchase, the product serial number, original packaging, photos, or basic troubleshooting. Some brands ask you to register the product or obtain a case number before shipping it for repair or replacement. We don’t submit or approve claims, but we can point you to the correct support links and contact details.

Keep your invoice and packaging in a safe place, and report any functional issues to the manufacturer as soon as they appear. If you’re unsure whether a problem is covered, the manufacturer’s support team can confirm next steps and timelines. While we cannot intervene in decisions or outcomes, we’re happy to provide purchase documentation or guidance so you can move through the warranty process smoothly.

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