AIX is a multiuser operating system allowing many users to access system resources and applications. Each user must be connected through a terminal session. The connection can be local or remote through a serial port or network connection using Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).
Each system unit has at least two standard serial ports available (some systems have three serial ports). These ports can support asynchronous communication and device attachment.
Two standard ports are sufficient for users requiring an additional ASCII terminal or a modem. Many users require additional asynchronous ports.
Asynchronous communications products offer the advantages of low cost, multi-user, medium- to high-performance terminal and device communications. Asynchronous ports allow attachment of asynchronous peripheral devices that meet EIA 232, EIA 422, or RS-423 standards such as: