Pin Assignments for HP Serial Cables

Refer to this document for information about:

The standard pin functions (RS-232 standard)

The pin assignments for HP Serial Cables, DB-9 and DB-25

RS-232 Standard Pin Functions

The RS-232 standard identifies pin assignments and functions for serial cable connections, using a 25-pin
serial connector as the basis for the assignments. This list includes all of the functions designated by the
standard, although HP does not use all of these pins in its printer side connectors.
Pin 1 - Protective Ground
This pin is also referred to as chassis ground. It provides protection against electrical shock where two
pieces of equipment are connected and one piece does not include a ground connection (the round prong
on the plug that goes in the electrical outlet). In some cases, not connecting the chassis ground may
disable communication. Sometimes connecting these pins may create a problem known as ground loop (a
short), where the equipment behaves erratically. Both of these situations are rare. In most cases, pin 1 is
not needed to establish communication between two devices.
Pin 2 - Transmit data (TxD or TD)
Pin 2 is used to transmit data from the printer to the computer. The transmit data pin on the printer
should be connected to the receive data pin on the computer.
Pin 3 - Receive data (RxD or RD)
Pin 3 is used to receive data from the computer to the printer. The receive data pin on the printer should
be connected to the transmit data pin on the computer.
Pin 4 - Request to Send (RTS)
Pin 4 is a general purpose output on the computer. It is used by modems to signal a desire to transmit
data. Even though HP printers send a high voltage on pin 4 when the printer is powered up, they do not
require RTS to function. Because of this, pin 4 is not listed in the pin outs for HP printers. Some
mainframes look to pin 4 (pin 1 on the 9 pin serial connectors) to determine that the printer is there.
Pin 5 - Clear to Send (CTS)
Pin 5 is a general purpose input on the computer. HP printers do not require CTS to function.
Pin 6 - Data Set Ready (DSR)
Pin 6 is a general purpose input on the printer to signal that the computer is powered up and ready to go.
HP printers do not require DSR to function.
Pin 7 - Common (Signal Ground)
Pin 7 is a reference point for all interface voltages. It enables the devices at both ends of the cable to have
the same definition for voltage levels, such as +5 volts for both devices.
Pin 8 - Data Carrier Detect (DCD)
Pin 8 allows the computer to signal when its made a connection to a modem. HP printers do not require
the DCD to function.
Pin 20 - Data Terminal Ready (DTR)
Pin 20 is a general purpose output on the printer. When connected to CTS and DSR on the computer, it
signals that the printer is powered up, on line, and ready to receive data.
DB-9 Serial Cable (HP C2932A)
Computer DB-9

Printer DB-9 (male end)

2
3
4
5
6
8

2
3
4
5
6
8

Receive Data
Transmit Data
Data Terminal Ready (DTR)
Ground
Data Set Ready
Clear to Send (CTS)

Transmit Data
Receive Data
Data Set Ready (DSR)
Ground
Data Terminal Ready
Data Terminal Ready

Pin Assignments for HP Serial Cables

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DB-25 Serial Cable (HP C2933A)

Computer DB-9

Printer DB-9 (male end)

2 Receive Data
3 Transmit Data
20 Data Terminal Ready
7 Ground
6 Data Set Ready
5 Clear to Send

2
3
4
5
6
8

Transmit Data
Receive Data
Data Set Ready
Ground
Data Terminal Ready
Data Terminal Ready

The tables above list only those pins used by the printer for communication. Unlisted numbers are
unassigned. The pin outs for the computer end are typical pin numbers; actual numbers may vary.

Copyright Hewlett-Packard Co. 2002 This information is subject to change without notice and is provided "as is" with
no warranty. Hewlett-Packard shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages in
connection with the use of this material.

Pin Assignments for HP Serial Cables

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