The Digi PortServer TS from Digi International connects serial equipment to an Ethernet network, allowing Windows applications to communicate with devices beyond a local serial port. Its Digi RealPort driver maps the server’s serial ports to virtual COM ports on your PC, helping compatible software access remote equipment through familiar serial connections.

Key Features

• Virtual COM port access: Presents network-connected serial ports as COM ports that compatible Windows applications can select and use.
• Support for existing serial software: Helps applications communicate with remote serial equipment without requiring a direct serial cable to the computer.
• Serial connection settings: Supports configuration of communication parameters, such as baud rate, parity, and flow control, to match the attached equipment.
• Network-based connectivity: Enables access to serial devices over an IP network. For Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, choose a RealPort driver package that explicitly supports your operating system and system architecture.

How to Install

1. Check your Windows version and driver compatibility. Confirm whether your computer uses a 32-bit or 64-bit operating system, then select the appropriate Digi RealPort package for your Digi PortServer TS model. Review the package documentation for supported Windows versions.

1. Connect and configure the device server. Attach the PortServer TS to power and your Ethernet network. Use the device’s supported configuration method to assign or confirm its IP address, and ensure your computer can reach it.

1. Run the driver installer. Extract the downloaded package if necessary, then launch its setup or configuration utility with administrator permissions. Follow the included instructions to install the driver components.

1. Add the server and assign COM ports. Use the RealPort configuration utility to discover the device or enter its IP address. Select the available serial ports and assign COM port numbers that do not conflict with existing devices.

1. Configure your application and test communication. Select the assigned COM port in your serial application and match its settings to the connected equipment. If communication fails, check the network connection, serial cabling, port settings, and any firewall restrictions. Restart Windows if the installer requests it.

Common Issues and Fixes

• RealPort install fails: Run the Digi RealPort installer as Administrator and remove any older Digi/RealPort driver first. Antivirus or Windows driver-signing prompts can block installation; allow the Digi package and reboot before retrying.
• PortServer TS not detected: Confirm the unit’s IP address, subnet, and firewall rules. Windows must reach TCP ports used by RealPort; test with ping and the Digi web UI, then add the device by IP in RealPort setup.
• Driver/version conflicts: Mixing old Digi drivers or stale COM-port assignments can cause yellow-bang devices or missing COM ports. Uninstall old RealPort versions, install the current PortServer TS-compatible RealPort package, and clear unused COM assignments in Device Manager.