HP E2260A Dual Interface Module RS-232

( Brand: Hp ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: E2260A ), ( Part Type: Module ), ( Item Length: 10 ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review HP Dual Rs-232 Interface M module

The **HP E2260A Dual RS-232 Interface M-Module** is a high-performance, enterprise-grade communication module designed to seamlessly integrate legacy serial devices into modern IT infrastructures, particularly within HP ProLiant servers and other compatible platforms. Engineered for reliability and versatility, this module provides two independent RS-232 (EIA-232) serial ports, each capable of delivering robust, high-speed data transmission at rates up to **115,200 baud**, making it ideal for connecting legacy peripherals such as printers, scanners, barcode readers, industrial controllers, or specialized diagnostic equipment. Built with HP s signature quality and durability, the E2260A features a **compact, low-profile M-Module form factor**, ensuring efficient use of server space while maintaining full compatibility with HP s ProLiant Gen8 and later server generations, as well as select third-party systems that support M-Module expansion slots.

Under the hood, the module incorporates **dual, fully isolated RS-232 interfaces**, each equipped with **TTL-level signal conversion** to ensure seamless communication between the server s internal logic and external serial devices. The design includes **optical isolation** for each port, significantly enhancing data integrity and protecting against electrical noise, voltage spikes, and ground loops critical considerations in environments with mixed or unregulated power sources. Additionally, the module supports **flow control** via hardware handshaking (RTS/CTS) and software-based XON/XOFF, allowing for optimized data transfer with devices that require strict handshake protocols. Each port is configurable via **BIOS or server management tools**, enabling administrators to adjust settings such as **baud rate, data bits, parity, and stop bits** to match the specific requirements of connected equipment, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of serial devices.

Beyond its technical specifications, the HP E2260A excels in **enterprise reliability and scalability**, making it a preferred choice for data centers, industrial automation, healthcare facilities, and other mission-critical environments where legacy equipment must coexist with modern IT systems. The module s **hot-plug capability** allows for seamless installation and removal without disrupting server operations, reducing downtime during maintenance or upgrades. Furthermore, its **low power consumption** and **efficient thermal management** ensure stable performance even in high-density server environments, where heat dissipation and energy efficiency are paramount. Whether deployed in a traditional server rack, a remote monitoring station, or a specialized industrial control system, the E2260A delivers a **plug-and-play solution** that bridges the gap between legacy serial technology and contemporary server architectures, all while adhering to HP s rigorous standards for performance, security, and long-term reliability.

The HP E2260A Dual RS-232 Interface M-Module is a legacy serial interface module designed to connect legacy serial devices (such as printers, terminals, or industrial equipment) to modern HP ProLiant servers via the M-Module slot. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the HP E2260A Dual RS-232 Interface M-Module**

1. **Compatibility with Legacy Equipment**

The module provides two RS-232 serial ports, which are essential for connecting older devices that lack USB or Ethernet interfaces. This is particularly useful in environments where legacy systems (e.g., industrial controllers, POS systems, or legacy printers) must remain operational alongside modern infrastructure.

2. **Direct Integration with HP ProLiant Servers**

The M-Module form factor ensures seamless integration into HP ProLiant servers (e.g., DL, BL, or ML series) that feature M-Module slots. This avoids the need for external adapters or additional hardware, simplifying setup and reducing potential points of failure.

3. **Reliable Performance for Serial Communication**

RS-232 is a robust protocol for point-to-point or multi-drop serial communication, making it ideal for applications where data integrity and low-latency responses are critical. The module supports standard serial communication speeds (up to 115.2 kbps, depending on the server s capabilities).

4. **Cost-Effective for Legacy Workloads**

For organizations that cannot afford to replace legacy equipment, the E2260A offers a cost-effective way to maintain connectivity without investing in new hardware. It eliminates the need for external serial-to-USB or serial-to-Ethernet converters, which can introduce additional complexity or compatibility issues.

5. **Physical Security and Integration**

Since the module is internal to the server, it reduces the risk of physical tampering or cable-related issues (e.g., disconnections, signal degradation) that can occur with external adapters. This is advantageous in secure or industrial environments where reliability is paramount.

6. **Support for Basic Serial Functions**

The module handles fundamental serial communication tasks, such as data transfer, handshaking (RTS/CTS, DTR/DSR), and flow control. While it lacks advanced features like USB emulation or high-speed data aggregation, it fulfills its core purpose effectively for many use cases.

7. **Availability and Spare Parts**

As a legacy product, the E2260A may still be available from HP or third-party suppliers, though stock levels could be limited. For organizations with existing server fleets, having spare modules on hand can prevent downtime during hardware failures.

---

### **Cons of the HP E2260A Dual RS-232 Interface M-Module**

1. **Limited to M-Module Compatible Servers**

The module is only compatible with HP ProLiant servers that have M-Module slots (e.g., older models like DL360 G6/G7 or BL460c). Newer servers (post-2015) typically use PCIe or other form factors, making the E2260A obsolete for modern hardware. This restricts its usefulness to legacy server environments.

2. **No USB or Ethernet Emulation**

The module does not provide USB or Ethernet interfaces, meaning it cannot bridge serial devices to modern networks or software that expects USB-based communication (e.g., many modern printers or scanners). This can require additional adapters or workarounds, adding complexity.

3. **Outdated Technology**

- High-speed data transfer (max 115.2 kbps, depending on server).

- Plug-and-play compatibility (requires manual configuration).

- Support for advanced protocols (e.g., USB mass storage or network printing).

This can be a bottleneck for applications requiring faster or more flexible communication.

4. **No Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or Advanced Features**

Unlike modern network adapters, the E2260A does not support features like PoE, VLAN tagging, or advanced serial aggregation. It is purely a serial interface with no additional networking capabilities.

5. **Potential for Driver or Compatibility Issues**

While the module may work out of the box on older HP servers running compatible OS versions (e.g., Windows Server 2008 R2 or Linux with proper drivers), newer operating systems may lack native support or require additional drivers. This can lead to configuration challenges or unsupported environments.

6. **No Scalability or Redundancy**

The module provides only two serial ports, which may be insufficient for environments requiring multiple serial connections (e.g., industrial automation with dozens of devices). External serial switches or hubs would be needed to scale, adding cost and complexity.

7. **End-of-Life (EOL) Status**

- No official updates or patches.

- Limited or no warranty for new purchases.

- Potential difficulty finding technical support or replacement parts in the long term.

8. **Physical Slot Occupancy**

The M-Module slot is a valuable resource in servers, and occupying it with a serial module means that other M-Modules (e.g., network, storage) cannot be installed simultaneously. This may limit the server s flexibility for future upgrades.

---

### **Conclusion**

The HP E2260A Dual RS-232 Interface M-Module is a practical solution for organizations that must maintain legacy serial devices in an environment of older HP ProLiant servers. It excels in scenarios where simplicity, reliability, and direct integration are prioritized over modern features. However, its limitations such as compatibility with outdated hardware, lack of advanced features, and the obsolescence of RS-232 make it unsuitable for most modern or growing environments.

For new deployments or environments with newer servers, the module is likely unnecessary or impractical. Instead, modern alternatives like USB-to-serial adapters, serial-over-Ethernet (SoE) solutions, or direct USB/Ethernet connections to serial devices should be considered. If legacy support is non-negotiable, the E2260A remains a viable stopgap, but only for servers and use cases where it is explicitly required.

---

### **Recommendation**

- You are maintaining a legacy system with HP ProLiant servers that have M-Module slots.

- The connected devices are strictly RS-232-dependent and cannot be upgraded.

- No other cost-effective alternatives (e.g., external serial adapters) are feasible.

- You have no plans to upgrade the server hardware in the near future.

- Your servers are newer (post-2015) and lack M-Module slots.

- You need high-speed or modern serial communication (e.g., USB-based devices).

- The devices can be upgraded to USB or Ethernet interfaces.

- You require scalability, redundancy, or advanced networking features.

- **For modern servers:** Use USB-to-serial adapters (e.g., FTDI or Prolific chips) or serial-over-USB solutions. Many modern printers and devices support USB, eliminating the need for RS-232.

- **For network integration:** Invest in serial-over-Ethernet (SoE) devices or USB-to-Ethernet bridges to connect serial devices to a network.

- **For industrial environments:** Evaluate serial switches or hubs to aggregate multiple serial connections to a single server port.

- **For long-term legacy support:** Document the use of the E2260A and plan for a migration path to modern interfaces as servers or devices are replaced.

- Verify compatibility with your specific server model and operating system.

- Check for third-party drivers if native support is lacking.

- Purchase from a reputable supplier to ensure authenticity, as counterfeit or refurbished modules may pose reliability risks.

- Consider keeping spare modules on hand, though expect limited availability over time.

Ultimately, the E2260A is a niche solution best suited to very specific legacy environments. For all other cases, modern alternatives should be prioritized to ensure flexibility, scalability, and long-term support.

Details:

The E2260A has two independently programmable RS-232 terminal interfaces. Are not included with this equipment unless pictured and/or listed in the above. Fast and hassle-free. Hours / Location.

HP E2260A Dual RS-232 Interface M-Module:: This Agent M-Module is used, and in excellent condition. Please see the E2251A Technical Specifications for M-Module slot requirements.

part #: e2260a prices

• $53.99-$295.00

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• brand: Hp
• mpn: E2260a
• part type: Module
• item length: 10
• country of origin: United States

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