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!