I'm waiting on parts before I can assemble more interfaces. I expect to restock in early June 2023. If you want to purchase, please add yourself to the waitlist, and you will be notified when the interface is in stock.

What is it?

Connect your IBM 3270 coax terminal to your PC with this USB interface!

Using the open-source oec controller software running on your PC, instead of a hard-to-find IBM 3174, you can connect to TN3270 and VT100 hosts around the world from the comfort of your own home.

Features

• BNC socket for connection to IBM 3270 type terminal
• Micro-USB port for connection to PC (and power)
• Four LED status indicators
• Laser-cut acrylic enclosure

Compatibility

This interface is only compatible with CUT-type 3270 terminals. Please contact me if you are unsure if your terminal is supported, and I'll try and help.

The interface is compatible with the open-source pycoax library and oec controller software. See those respective projects for additional information.

The interface firmware is designed to act as a controller and not emulate a terminal.

What do I get? What else do I need?

The interface comes fully assembled, tested, and ready to use.

You will also need:

• Micro-USB cable to connect the interface to your PC
• Coaxial cable to connect the interface to your terminal
• Install the open-source oec controller software on your PC
• A TN3270 or VT100 host

Why did you make it?

I wanted to connect a real IBM terminal to the Hercules emulator. Unfortunately, it's hard to find the necessary IBM 3174 terminal controller with Ethernet or Token Ring interface and a version of the software that supports TCP/IP. Also, they are large, noisy, and difficult to keep running.

So, I decided to build my own. You can read more about this project's background in my Building an IBM 3270 terminal controller article.

What makes it special?

It is a unique, open-source, and open-hardware 3270 interface!