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ECHNICAL
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EFERENCE
172
The Serial Interface
The serial interface is a standard developed by the Electronic Industries Association
(EIA). It defines the signals and voltages used when data is exchanged between a
computer and a modem or serial printer.
The entire standard covers many more functions than are used in most data
communications applications. Data is transmitted between the devices over a shielded
serial cable with a 25-pin male (DB-25) connector to the modem and a 25-pin, 9-
pin, 8-pin, or custom-built connector to the computer.
FCC regulations require the use of a shielded cable when connecting a modem to a
computer to ensure minimal interference with radio and television.
Pin assignments are factory-set in the Sportster modem to match the standard DB-25
assignments in the following table. DB-9 connectors for IBM/AT-compatible
computers should be wired at the computer end of the cable as shown in the DB-9
column.