RS-449, EIA-449 (RS449, EIA449) Connector / Signaling Standard



An explanation of the standard, its characteristics including pinouts and how the interface is generally used in practice.

Interface Standards

RS-449 ( often written as RS449 ) is a specification for a differential communications interface that uses a DB-37 connector and differential equivalents of the V.24 (RS-232) signals. Some of the link management control signals are implemented using V.10 (RS-423) single ended interfaces. Note that the EIA standards have effectively replaced the RS standards. Note also that RS-449 and EIA-449 (often written as EIA449) are also sometimes referred to as V.36 (a modem standard that specifies an RS-449 type data interface).

Interface Characteristics

RS-449 is a differential communications interface used for synchronous communications with some single-ended link management signals, typically limited to a maximum throughput of 10Mbps. Communications over distances exceeding 1000m is possible at low bit rates, the actual performance being mostly dependent on cable specification. Separate clock lines are used for receiving and transmitting data.

Interface Applications

RS-449 interfaces are commonly found on communications equipment in some parts of the world where high throughput and/or long distances are required. The interface also offers good noise immunity enabling reliable communications in environments where there are high levels of EMI (electromagnetic interference).

Interface Connector Types and Pinouts

The signals used by the overwhelming majority of applications are marked in bold.

DB37 Connector Pinouts

Signal Name DB37 Contact Supported on FarSync cards
Shield  1  Yes
Signal Rate Indicator  2   
Unassigned  3   
Send Data (A)  4  Yes
Send Timing (A)  5  Yes
Receive Data (A)  6  Yes
Request To Send (A)  7  Yes
Receive Timing (A)  8  Yes
Clear To Send (A)  9  Yes
Local Loopback  10  
Data Mode (A)  11  
Terminal Ready (A)  12  
Receiver Ready (A)  13  
Remote Loopback  14  
Incoming Call  15  
Select Frequency  16  
Terminal Timing (A)  17  
Test Mode  18  
Signal Ground  19  Yes
Receive Common  20  
Unassigned  21  
Send Data (B)  22  Yes
Send Timing (B)  23  Yes
Receive Data (B)  24  Yes
Request To Send (B)  25  Yes
Receive Timing (B)  26  Yes
Clear To Send (B)  27  Yes
Terminal In Service  28  
Data Mode (B)  29  
Terminal Ready (B)  30  
Receiver Ready (B)  31  
Select Standby  32  
Signal Quality  33  
New Signal  34  
Terminal Timing (B)  35  
Standby Indicator  36  
Send Common  37  

The RS449, EIA449 standard is supported on the FarSync range of communications products

Note: FarSite specifies the use of one of two conversion cables (for use with either a DCE-supplied Clock or a DTE-supplied clock) for use with a FarSync product and a matching X.21 cable.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.


Last updated: 28 May 2004

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