Serial Communications

Some Windows Embedded CE–based devices can communicate with other computers, printers, modems, or Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites by way of a serial connection.

Serial I/O is the simplest form of communication supported by Windows Embedded CE. It is used when a direct, one-to-one connection exists between two devices.

Serial I/O can occur by way of various hardware connections; however, most Windows Embedded CE–based devices use serial cables or a PC Card device, such as a modem or infrared (IR) transceiver.

Exchanging data by way of a serial cable is similar to reading from or writing to a file.

Windows Embedded CE supports standard Windows-based desktop functions for serial communications. These functions can be used to open, close, and manipulate serial ports, transmit and receive data, and manage the connection.