🚀 IO-PCE358-8S Professional 8-Port RS-232 Serial Expansion Card
Transform your desktop PC or server into a multi-port serial communication hub. The IO-PCE358-8S delivers enterprise-grade reliability with 8 independent RS-232 ports, powered by the industry-proven Exar XR17V358 chipset.
📥 Official Driver Download
🔧 Exar XR17V358 Driver Package
Version: Latest | File Size: ~2.5 MB | Format: ZIP
✅ Virus-Free
🔒 Secure Download
⚡ Fast Server
🏆 WHQL Certified
💻 Supported Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10/11, Windows Server 2003-2022 (32/64-bit), Linux 2.6.27+, Mac OS X 10.5+
📋 Complete Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Number | IO-PCE358-8S |
| Chipset | Exar XR17V358 (Industry-proven UART controller) |
| Interface Type | PCI Express x1 (compatible with x4/x8/x16 slots) |
| Serial Ports | 8 × DB9 male connectors (RS-232) |
| Cable Type | One-to-eight fan-out cable included |
| Data Transfer Rate | Up to 921.6 kbps per port |
| UART Buffer | 256-byte FIFO per channel (Transmit & Receive) |
| Supported Signals | CTS, DSR, RI, DCD, DTR, RTS (Full modem control) |
| Baud Rate | Configurable: 300 to 921,600 bps |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 85°C (Industrial grade) |
| Card Dimensions | 100mm (L) × 120mm (W) × 21.5mm (H) |
| PCIe Standard | PCIe 2.0 (backward compatible with PCIe 1.1) |
| Throughput | Up to 2.5 Gbps (PCIe lane) |
| Power Consumption | Low power design, powered via PCIe slot |
⭐ Key Features & Advantages
🔌 8 Independent Serial Ports
Connect up to 8 RS-232 devices simultaneously via standard DB9 connectors. Perfect for multi-device environments requiring reliable serial communication.
⚡ High-Performance Chipset
Powered by Exar XR17V358 UART controller with 256-byte FIFO buffers per channel, ensuring zero data loss even at maximum 921.6 kbps transfer rates.
🏭 Industrial-Grade Reliability
Designed for harsh environments with extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C). Ideal for factory automation, outdoor installations, and mission-critical systems.
✅ WHQL Certified Drivers
Microsoft-certified drivers ensure plug-and-play compatibility with Windows operating systems. No complex configuration required—install and start working immediately.
🔄 Legacy Port Compatibility
Built-in re-map function allows seamless integration with legacy DOS and Windows applications that require specific COM port assignments (COM1-COM8).
🖥️ Universal Compatibility
PCIe x1 interface works in any available PCIe slot (x1/x4/x8/x16). Compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS—one card for all your systems.
🏭 Real-World Applications
🏢 Industrial Automation
PLC controllers, CNC machines, SCADA systems, robotic arms, conveyor systems
🛒 Retail & POS
Receipt printers, cash drawers, barcode scanners, customer displays, payment terminals
🖥️ Server & Data Centers
UPS monitoring, KVM switches, console servers, network equipment management
🔧 Legacy System Integration
Connect vintage equipment, DOS-based systems, older measurement devices to modern PCs
🔬 Laboratory & Testing
Oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, data loggers, environmental chambers
📡 Telecommunications
Modems, routers, switches, serial console access, network diagnostics
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use this card in a PCIe x16 graphics card slot?
A: Yes! The IO-PCE358-8S uses a PCIe x1 interface but is fully compatible with x4, x8, and x16 slots. You can install it in any available PCIe slot on your motherboard.
Q: Does this work with Windows 11?
A: Yes, the Exar XR17V358 chipset drivers are compatible with Windows 11 (both 32-bit and 64-bit). The WHQL-certified drivers work seamlessly with all modern Windows versions including Windows 10 and 11.
Q: Can I assign specific COM port numbers (e.g., COM1, COM2)?
A: Yes! The card supports port re-mapping through Windows Device Manager. You can manually assign COM port numbers to match your legacy application requirements.
Q: What's the maximum cable length I can use with RS-232?
A: RS-232 standard supports up to 15 meters (50 feet) at 9600 bps. For higher baud rates (921.6 kbps), keep cables under 3 meters (10 feet) for optimal signal integrity. Use shielded cables in electrically noisy environments.
Q: Do I need external power for this card?
A: No external power required. The card draws all necessary power directly from the PCIe slot, making installation simple and cable-free.
Q: Is this compatible with Linux and Mac OS?
A: Yes! Linux kernel 2.6.27 and newer include native support for Exar chipsets. Mac OS X 10.5 and later also support this card. Drivers are included in the download package.
📦 What's in the Box
- ✓ 1 × IO-PCE358-8S PCI Express serial controller card
- ✓ 1 × 8-Port DB9 Fan-Out Cable (one-to-eight breakout cable with DB9 male connectors)
- ✓ 1 × User Manual with installation guide and driver information
🔧 Installation & System Requirements
Minimum System Requirements:
- Available PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16 expansion slot
- Compatible operating system (Windows XP or newer, Linux 2.6.27+, Mac OS X 10.5+)
- Administrator privileges for driver installation
- CD-ROM drive or internet connection for driver download
Supported Operating Systems:
| Windows | XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11, Server 2003-2022 (32/64-bit) |
| Linux | Kernel 2.6.27 and newer (Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS, RHEL, Fedora) |
| Mac OS | OS X 10.5 (Leopard) and newer, including macOS Monterey/Ventura |
💡 Why Choose IO-PCE358-8S?
In today's connected world, legacy serial devices remain critical in industrial, retail, and laboratory environments. The IO-PCE358-8S bridges the gap between modern PCIe-based computers and essential RS-232 equipment, delivering:
- Proven Reliability: Exar XR17V358 chipset trusted by Fortune 500 companies worldwide
- Future-Proof Design: PCIe 2.0 standard ensures compatibility with current and next-gen motherboards
- Zero Data Loss: 256-byte FIFO buffers prevent data corruption during high-speed transfers
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: WHQL-certified drivers eliminate configuration headaches
- Industrial Durability: Extended temperature range (-40°C to 85°C) for mission-critical deployments
🎯 Backed by comprehensive driver support and wide OS compatibility, the IO-PCE358-8S is the professional choice for reliable serial connectivity.
⚠️ Important Note: This card provides RS-232 serial ports only. For RS-422/RS-485 applications, please see our dedicated multi-protocol serial cards. Ensure your devices use standard RS-232 voltage levels (±12V) for compatibility.