CoolTerm

CoolTerm is a simple and free serial port communication tool that facilitates data exchange between a computer and hardware devices, such as servo controllers, GPS receivers, and robotic kits, using serial ports. It is portable and doesn’t require any installation process, so you can directly use it.

No doubt, the communication process between devices is somewhat complicated, but it is necessary to connect with hardware devices, allowing you to access a serial port terminal tool such as CoolTerm. It is equipped with a graphical user interface and compatible with all important operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and so on. 

What is CoolTerm?

CoolTerm is cross-platform, simple, and free software used for serial communication between devices, designed for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It enables different hardware devices including robotic kits, microcontrollers, servo controllers, GPS receivers, etc connected serial ports exchange their data through connected serial ports. 

The software uses a graphical user interface to send and receive messages, including serial data and log data. It is the best choice for professionals and hobbyists to ensure the accurate working position of everything. 

CoolTerm Features

No Installation Require

The program with a GUI is simple to use, as you do not have to install the program; instead, move to the folder with zipped files, and unzip them all. On first launching, you have the option to adjust Settings, but if you aren’t familiar with the entire process, simply let them work as by default.

Simple Configuration

After launching the program, you need to navigate to the graphical user interface (GUI) and start to insert your data for sending to any of the serial ports. The ports are decided by default, but you can configure them according to your requirements. For this purpose, click on “Connection Options” and configure the communication-related data, including stop bits, termination string form, baud rate, capture format, and so on. 

You can view your received data using ViewHex in hexadecimal format. The sending of text strings is possible by clicking Connection, and next Send String, you can plain text or hexadecimal format to send data. Likewise, send entire text or binary files while clicking Connection > Send Text/Binary File. Navigate to Connection > Capture to Text/Binary File to record your received data.

Adjust Baud Rate

The CoolTerm offers a straightforward process of sending and receiving data between your PC and connected hardware devices. For this purpose, you have to manage the speed of your PC and connected hardware devices at the same level. So, make sure the Baud Rate must be at 9600. 

Support External Devices

In modern digital machines, the communication using serial ports is less, but we need CoolTerm in case of connecting to external devices such as microcontrollers, Servo controllers, Robotic Kits, and GPS receivers. So you can easily connect, debug, and test to control the external devices.

Lightweight Utility

 CoolTerm is a lightweight utility that consumes very few storage resources and works like a breeze to control your connected devices. It offers free of cost services with a user-friendly setup, enabling users to connect and exchange their data with external devices more reliably.

Flexible & Versatile

The innovative software with flexibility and versatility offers quick and simple communication using serial ports. It helps to connect with multiple serial ports simultaneously, and enables users to select the methods to send data: plain text or hexadecimal. It gives a smooth and reliable flow control while supporting CTS, DTR (Hardware), and XON, XOFF (Software). 

Support Multiple Connection Types

You not only connect your PC with any external hardware device while working with CoolTerm, but also use other connection types as well. So, you have the option to use SSH and Telnet if you want to connect remotely.

Portable Utility

As we aforementioned, the software doesn’t require any installation process, and you can use it by simply unzipping the zipped files. So, it can be stored anywhere, such as on your USB, and carried wherever you want. 

Pros

• Lightweight, fast, and free to use
• Support a graphical user interface 
• No need for coding
• Exchange data into different formats, including ASCII and hexadecimal
• Seamless connection to multiple serial ports
• Supports SSH and telnet for connecting, along with serial
• Support Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems
• Easily configurable
• Flexible and straightforward interface
• Offers easy access to external devices, including robotic kits, servo controller

Cons

• Compared to other GUI interfaces, it has limited advanced features
• The interface is less intuitive
• Lack of customer support and troubleshooting resources