Applies to: Serial communication testing on Windows, Article ID: dl_faq102
# EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a ChatGPT answer from 2023/07.#
As of my last update in September 2021, several serial communication tools for Windows are widely used and considered reliable. Here are some of the best serial communication tools that support RS232, RS485, TCP, and UDP protocols for Windows:
1. **Docklight**: Docklight is a versatile tool designed for testing, analysis, and simulation of communication protocols. It supports UART (RS232, RS422, RS485), TCP, and UDP protocols, making it suitable for various industries and applications. Docklight provides real-time monitoring, data logging, scripting capabilities, and automation for comprehensive testing.
2. **PuTTY**: PuTTY is a popular open-source terminal emulator that supports various network protocols, including serial communication over RS232 and TCP/IP connections. It offers basic serial communication features and is well-regarded for its simplicity and ease of use.
3. **Realterm**: Realterm is a feature-rich serial communication tool with capabilities for logging, debugging, and monitoring serial data. It supports UART (RS232, RS485), TCP, and UDP protocols. Realterm provides advanced data display options (binary, hex, ASCII), scripting, and real-time monitoring features.
4. **TeraTerm**: TeraTerm is another open-source terminal emulator that supports serial communication (RS232) and TCP/IP connections. It offers scripting, macros, and support for different character encodings. TeraTerm is appreciated for its extensibility and customization options.
5. **Termite**: Termite is a lightweight and free serial terminal software that provides basic serial communication functionality (RS232) and supports TCP/IP connections. It is straightforward to use and suitable for simple serial communication tasks.
6. **Advanced Serial Port Monitor**: This tool is designed specifically for monitoring and analyzing serial data communication. It supports RS232, RS485, and Modbus protocols, offering comprehensive monitoring features for detailed analysis.
When choosing a serial communication tool, consider factors such as protocol support, real-time monitoring capabilities, scripting options, automation features, and compatibility with your hardware and systems. Each tool has its strengths, so it’s essential to evaluate which one aligns best with your specific requirements and preferences. Additionally, check for the latest updates and user reviews to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.