What is RS-232/422/485?

RS-232 is a standard for serial communication transmission of data. It defines the electrical signaling, timing, signal meaning, and mechanical aspects of a serial interface between a data terminal equipment (DTE) and a data circuit-terminating equipment (DCE). It is commonly used to connect computers to peripherals like printers, modems, and older network devices. While largely replaced by USB, it remains in use for some industrial applications and embedded systems.