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Can the RAK-1 parallel port be converted to a serial port?

It depends...

If the goal is to capture data on a computer or other device from the RFC/RAK then it is possible using an external parallel-to-serial data converter. These devices are less common than they used to be but a web search should turn up some results.

At last check we found devices at Connect Technologies (part #06-3739) and Jameco (part #182983CA). Both devices are affortable and can be setup as either a parallel-to-serial device or a serial-to-parallel device. We have not tested either of these devices specifically but they are similar to a device that we use which is no longer available.

These converters have a Centronics type connector on the parallel side so a standard parallel printer cable (DB-25 M to Centronics) is used to connect the DB-25 from the RAK-1 to the converter input. The RS-232 data appears on a DB-25 F connector from the converter. You will need an appropriate cable for your computer with a DB-25 M connector to the data converter.

If the goal is to operate the RFC/RAK through a computer connected directly to the RFC/RAK then a data converter will not help. The parallel port on the RAK is output only so the system cannot receive data through that port and thus it cannot be controlled. The internal modem occupies the data input port so the system can be operated off-site.

 
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