Source and documentation on Github: https://github.com/AndersBNielsen/Universal-Serial-Adapter
The Origins of the Word “Hacker” and a Universal Serial Adapter for Modern Tinkering
Have you ever wondered where the term “hacker” originated? It’s a fascinating journey that’s far removed from the modern association with cybercrime. While working on my latest project—a Universal Serial Adapter—I found myself reflecting on this word’s history and how it ties back to the essence of ingenuity and hands-on innovation.
The Historical Roots of “Hacker”
The term “hacker” first appeared in the 1950s, linked to the MIT Tech Model Railroad Club. These pioneers weren’t cracking passwords or infiltrating systems; they were enthusiasts modifying electrical circuits and railroad systems. According to records from a 1955 meeting, students were advised to turn off power before “hacking on the electrical system.” This suggests that hacking, at its core, involved physical tinkering—sometimes literally with hacksaws—to modify and improve systems.
This origin reflects a time when printed circuit boards (PCBs) were expensive, and modifications were often done by hand. This hands-on spirit of experimentation resonates deeply with the work I’ve been doing, and it’s a mindset I’ve aimed to embody in my latest project.
Introducing the Universal Serial Adapter
The Universal Serial Adapter is a tool designed for flexibility and ease of use. It features:
- USB-C connectivity on one end,
- UART control signals for interfacing with microcontrollers, and
- An RS-232 (COM) port for compatibility with older systems like the IBM PC AT from 1984.
This adapter bridges the gap between decades of computing technology, making it useful for both vintage computer enthusiasts and modern developers working with microcontrollers.
Why Build It?
There are plenty of USB-to-serial adapters on the market, but I wanted something more hackable and modifiable. Most commercial options are encased in epoxy, making them difficult to tweak. By creating an open-source, modular design, I’ve ensured this tool can adapt to various use cases. For example, it’s perfect for testing connections or experimenting with PCB designs before committing to a final product.
The Hackability Factor
One key feature of the Universal Serial Adapter is its configurability. Traditional RS-232 setups often require null modem adapters or crossover cables, which can complicate signal flow and control signal pass-through. To simplify this, I designed jumper blocks that make configuring the polarity straightforward. Here’s how it works:
- Signal pairs are placed in jumper blocks.
- Horizontal jumpers configure straight connections.
- Vertical jumpers cross over the signals (e.g., RX/TX, CTS/RTS).
This intuitive approach eliminates the need for external adapters and ensures the control signals are handled correctly, improving connection reliability.
Modern-Day Circuit Board Innovations
Unlike the expensive PCBs of the 1950s, modern manufacturing has made prototyping affordable. For this project, I relied on JLCPCB, whose sponsorship allowed me to experiment freely without breaking the bank. If you’re interested, new customers can get coupons for their first order, and I’ve linked the details in the description. With their service, you can get six-layer PCBs for as little as $5—a dream for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Open Source and Community Contributions
This project is 100% open source. All design files and schematics are available on GitHub, so you can customize the adapter or use it as inspiration for your own projects. I’ve also integrated ideas from the community. For instance, the jumper configuration technique was inspired by contributions from CommodoreZ and TechAV, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the maker community.
Beyond the Basics
The adapter is built for flexibility:
- Modular Design: It can be snapped apart into separate components using a clever combination of vias and notches, offering sturdiness and convenience.
- Compatibility: It works with both modern computers and vintage hardware.
- Advanced Features: The RS-232 chip includes a sleep mode for power efficiency and can be manually woken up when needed.
For breadboard enthusiasts, the adapter plugs directly into standard boards, making it easy to prototype new circuits. If you need just the RS-232 functionality, you can separate it from the USB-to-serial chip and use it independently.
Performance and Testing
During testing, the adapter surpassed expectations, achieving data transfer rates of over 1 megabit per second without errors. This performance is impressive given the datasheet ratings for the components. A Python script I wrote for testing is also available on GitHub, so you can replicate or adapt the setup for your own needs.
Looking Ahead
This project is part of a broader effort to upgrade my 6502-based single-board computer, the 65uino, to include USB-C and built-in UART. The Universal Serial Adapter was born out of a need to test these new features, but it has evolved into a versatile tool in its own right.
Join the Conversation
If you have questions or want to share your own projects, feel free to join the discussion on my Hackerspace Clubhouse Discord server. The Universal Serial Adapter is already available in my store, and I’m always happy to hear feedback or ideas for future improvements.
Let’s keep the spirit of hacking alive—whether it’s with a soldering iron, a hacksaw, or just a curious mind. Thanks for reading, and happy tinkering!