DOSBox-X USB to Serial RS-232 Port Setup

DOSBox-X uses configuration file dosbox-x.conf for numerous parameters, including for serial port access via USB to serial adapters.

First, identify the device ID for USB to serial adapter:

  • Linux: ls /dev/ttyUSB* or ls /dev/ttyACM*
  • macOS: ls /dev/cu.* or ls /dev/tty.*

On Linux, allow non-sudo serial port access by adding the username to “plugdev” and “dialout” groups, then logout and login.

adduser $(whoami) plugdev dialout

Locate and edit dosbox-x.conf. Under [serial] modify the serial1=dummy according to the device found above. For example on Linux, if the device is at “/dev/ttyUSB0”:

serial1=directserial realport:ttyUSB0

DOSBox-X would present the serial device on COM1 as seen from within DOSBox-X.

Troubleshooting

On Linux, if trouble accessing a device, ensure the username is in “plugdev” group as noted above, and perhaps try (assuming device is /dev/ttyUSB0):

chmod 666 /dev/ttyUSB0