What is the function of my RS-232

RS-232 is a kind of port, in the case of Naim streamers it's where you connect the cable to perform firmware upgrades on models made before the switch to USB ports. What firmware is your ND5 running? (It tells you if you look through the menus on the unit's screen or on the Naim app, consult the instructions or your dealer if unsure).

The way you've phrased your post makes it sound as if it's not just the port on the back of the ND5 you're referring to though. If that's the case, you'll need to describe what you mean a bit more.

I recently up-graded the firmware on the ND5. My Naim App tells me it's 4.4.00. The RS-232 was purchased approximately 12 years ago with the other components and is a free standing piece of equipment. Why would I have needed it 12 years ago and do I need it now? 

I presume the RS-232 device you have is some sort of converter that connects to your computer via USB, Ethernet, or whatever. Anyway, you have successfully used it to update your streamer to 4.4, which is the latest version, so nothing to worry about. The RS-232 port on Naim streamers has no other function than updating firmware, so you could just stick the thing in a drawer and forget about it until the next update comes along.

perrynyc posted:

The RS-232 was purchased approximately 12 years ago with the other components and is a free standing piece of equipment. 

Not following this . . .

An RS232 is usually a small port - part of the hardware - with pins or holes. The perimeter is trapezoid. It's not normally a 'free standing piece of equipment'. Is it an RS232 cable you're referring to? How did you do the upgrade?

I upgraded with a USB connected to a MAC laptop. I just looked at my original invoice from 2004. The RS232 is listed as "RS232 Module" and the description is"Naim 232 port & chip for all components". The piece I thought was the RS-232 is actually an NAPSC-which I now understand is the power supply to the pre-Amp. So now back to the original question. Where is the RS232(is it a connection in the back of the prior listed components?), what did I need it for in 2004 and does it have any function that I could take advantage of today? Thank you to all that have responded.

Modern Naim components use the USB interface for upgrades.  Why you purchased some piece of electronics in 2004 - my crystal ball is not showing me. It's been acting up lately!

Both the CDX2 and NAC 282(CD Player and  Pre Amp) have the RS232 connection ports in the rear of the units. My crystal ball is no better than your-however Naim must have made it an option for some reason. My assumption is up-grades was not the reason in 2004, maybe computer connectivity?

The 282 user manual states the the RS232 interface is an "optional upgrade." But offers no info. as why one would want it or what it does.  Perhaps for connection to third-party whole-home style integrated controllers??

Bart posted:

 Perhaps for connection to third-party whole-home style integrated controllers??

Yep. Early home automation. Then naim started dabbling with Naimnet....

I believe its pretty similar to the automation signalling that is currently used in the phono automation connection, I guess the RS232 interface allows more reliable communications over longer distances.

Bart-I think you may be correct. When I originally purchased the equipment there was talk of adding a Crestron controller. As I remember the unit was the size of a modern day i-Pad and sold for around $1000.00, which is why I don't own it! Once again, thanks for everyones responses. I'll file RS232 port next to floppy disc.

actually RS232 is a great interface medium where low noise is required and is still very current in some environments.. I use it extensively with  sensitive radio equipment - I just convert to USB well away from the sensitive equipment for my computers.. but yes in consumer land its somewhat of an anachronism.

Just an interesting F/U. If you go to the Naim web site and search for the ND5, the back of the unit has an RS232 port that looks like a mini USB. In the reference manual they have it listed as a USB port.

It is a Mini-USB  ............ RS232 looks like this  

perrynyc posted:

Just an interesting F/U. If you go to the Naim web site and search for the ND5, the back of the unit has an RS232 port that looks like a mini USB. In the reference manual they have it listed as a USB port.

That's odd, but Naim have never been that good at keeping their website full of up-to-the-minute information. I let them off on the basis that they should, and apparently are, much more focused on making great sounding equipment than they are on such boring matters as website maintenance. 

Agreed. Just to point it out in case any one was as confused as I was. Clearly a Mini USB masquerading as a RS232!

It's for firmware updates. Older products, such as the NaimUniti have, used a 9-pin D-SUB socket requiring a USB-to-serial cable, which could be a bit flaky and led to me bricking it a couple of times while doing upgrades (and could only be used with Windoze PCs). The newer ones use the mini-USB socket, which seems much more reliable and can be used with Macs, too.

I'm guessing that you may have purchased your original system components from Innovative Audio in NYC - if that was the case, it is likely that I installed and tested the RS-232 module before shipping it to your retailer.

This facility is bi-directional (unlike your IR handset) and can be used with any control system that supports serial communication, e.g., RTI, Universal Remote (URC), Crestron, AMX, Control4, Savant and/or other networked automation systems (iRule/On Controls, etc.).

That said - system automation via the ND5 XS is likely a bit more user-friendly.

Yes that is correct, components were purchased at Innovative Audio . I went to the Crestron web site and they still seem to make controllers that use RS232 connections. This may be getting a little off the topic but, what advantage would the bi-directional controllers have at this point. I can control the ND5 with the Naim App, except for volume. If I use one of the bi-directional controllers I still would have to be directly in front of the components to use it-so in essence I am trading two controllers for one. If there are other advantages to the Bi-directional controller could you please share them with me.