IPCOMServer is a cheap and easy solution to control RS-232 devices without the use of expensive router products like a Cisco® 2511 Terminal server. The IPCOMServer acts as a Telnet server, connecting the user directly to a chosen COM port. IPCOMServer can be connected to by either using a Telnet program or a custom written Telnet Client. A Telnet program will provide the user with a text interface to interrogate the attached RS-232 device. The reason why IPCOMServer was developed was to enable a user to control custom built electronic equipment, or to access remote control test equipment like, TTC Fireberd 4000® or Protocol Analyzers etc.

IPCOMServer acts as a virtual connection between a TCP/IP port or socket and a personal computers Serial/COM port. When a Telnet program or client connects to IPCOMServer, it will be connected directly to the serial port specified in the Setup of IPCOMServer. Strings of data or commands that are generated at the Client will be transported across the TCP/IP network to the Host. At the host the incoming commands are relayed to the serial port. The device attached to the host will react on the commands by sending replies back to the host, which are then relayed back the client. The replies can be used to display either text form or to update a graphical user interface (GUI). See the application notes for more information.