tio is a serial device I/O tool for Linux, macOS, and other Unix-like systems.
It provides a straightforward command-line interface for connecting to serial TTY devices for basic input and output operations, with a focus on the practical needs of embedded developers and hardware hackers rather than classic terminal or modem features. It was originally created as an alternative to screen for serial work alongside terminal multiplexers such as tmux.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Automatic connection management, including serial port detection and automatic reconnect.
- Can connect to devices by unique topology ID for more reliable reconnection.
- Supports non-standard baud rates, mark and space parity, and RS-485 mode.
- Offers X-modem and Y-modem file upload support.
- Provides logging, timestamps, RX/TX statistics, local echo, and multiple input/output modes.
- Includes configuration files with profile support and the ability to include other configuration files.
- Can redirect I/O to shell commands, UNIX sockets, and IPv4/IPv6 network sockets.
- Supports Lua scripting for automation, expect/send workflows, and serial device control.
Website: github.com/tio/tio
Support:
Developer: Martin Lund
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
tio is written in C. Learn C with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| Terminal-Based Serial Terminals | |
|---|---|
| tio | Straightforward TTY I/O with profiles and clean command syntax |
| minicom | Menu-driven comms tool with dialing, scripting, and capture |
| ComChan | Fast Rust monitor with plotting, logging, and TUI workflow |
| picocom | Minimal modem tester for low-overhead device console access |
| Commy | Small cross-platform utility for UART, TTY, and COM devices |
| ssterm | Python-based console app with easy setup and output formatting |
| opencu | Portable cu-style console for quick Linux device connections |
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