> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.marcus.involvecloud.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Generic Serial (RS-232)

> Direct RS-232 to a device wired to the collector host. Baud rate configurable; commands sent as raw byte strings.

**Works with:** Devices wired to the Collector host by RS-232.

|                                  |                                     |
| -------------------------------- | ----------------------------------- |
| **Type**                         | Generic adapter                     |
| **Device types**                 | Display, Audio, Camera, Control     |
| **Connection**                   | RS-232 serial on the Collector host |
| **Power on/off from the portal** | No                                  |
| **Protocol in the portal**       | Generic Serial (RS-232) (`serial`)  |

## Before you start

1. Connect the device to a serial port on the Collector host. That means the Collector runs on a machine next to the device.
2. Note the port name: `/dev/ttyUSB0` or similar on Linux, `COM3` or similar on Windows.

## Add the device

1. In the portal, go to **Devices** and select **New device**.
2. Choose the **Collector** that can reach the device, and set **Protocol** to **Generic Serial (RS-232)**.
3. Enter the settings below and save. The Collector picks up the new device within five minutes.

| Setting                | Required | What to enter                                         | Example        |
| ---------------------- | -------- | ----------------------------------------------------- | -------------- |
| **Address**            | Yes      | Serial device path on the host running the collector. | `/dev/ttyUSB0` |
| **Baud rate (serial)** | No       | Baud rate. Defaults to 9600.                          | `115200`       |

## Readings

Reachability and response time are recorded on every poll. The device's own values depend on what its endpoint returns.

## Commands

This adapter monitors only; it has no commands.