# The SERIAL\_WRITE Command

The `SERIAL_WRITE` command will write any following text to the serial console. This is useful for adding meaningful output to a payload.

{% hint style="info" %}
The ACTIVATE command was introduced with firmware 1.2.0 on the Shark Jack Cable.
{% endhint %}

## Example

Add output to a payload with the following:

```
# Scan network
LED ATTACK
SERIAL_WRITE [*] Starting nmap scan...
nmap $NMAP_OPTIONS $SUBNET -oN $LOOT_DIR/nmap-scan_$COUNT.txt
```

## Using Variables

The `SERIAL_WRITE` command will parse any variables, much like the `echo` command.

```
root@shark:~# DATE=$(date)
root@shark:~# SERIAL_WRITE $DATE
Tue Aug 24 00:26:55 UTC 2021
root@shark:~# 
```