Testing a DB-9 RS-232 serial port in HyperTerminal

This procedure explains how to troubleshoot a COM card using Hyperterminal.
Before testing your serial ports, you must first hook up a loopback.

A loopback connects the output signal (TxD) to the input signal (RxD) in a single serial port connector to make it seem like there are two ports connected together.

Making a loopback
Step Procedure Description
Step 1-Turn off the computer
.
Step 2-Connect RxD (pin 2) and TxD (pin 3) of the serial port.
Use a loop-back connector if available, or any kind of conductive wire, even a paper clip
.
Step 3-Turn on the computer. You are now ready to test the port.
Figure 24 - RS-232 DB-9 connector
Running Hyperterminal
Step Procedure Description

Step 1-Launch HyperTerminal. In Windows,

select Programs/Accessories/ Communications/ HyperTerminal.

Step 2-Create a new session. When prompted, give the session any name you wish.

Step 3-Select the COM # associated with your You are now set up to test the port.
port from the drop down list.
Note: Leave all settings at default.

Figure 24 illustrates the jumper location for a loopback on a
RS-232 DB-9 connector.
Install a wire jumper to connect the following signals:
RxD (pin 2) to TxD (pin 3)
Step Procedure Description

Step 4-With the session open, type any text. If the text you type is echoed on the
screen, the port is functioning properly.

Step 5-Close the session.

Step 6-Repeat all above steps to test additional You will first need to connect the Loopback
ports. on the other ports using the steps above