My wife uses a software that runs in DOS and utilizes a serial port for input from another device. (she's a court reporter)
To the amazement of her co-workers who use similar programs, I was able to get this to run in a DOS window in Windows XP.
We're now looking at replacing her current laptop with a new one and most the new ones do not have a serial port.
I'm looking at a USB to Serial Port cable converter from IOGear and am wondering if I can get Serial Port functionality from that through a DOS window in XP. Basically the computer would have to see it as a COM 1-4, with the default settings available.
As always, thanks for the input.

Yes, it should work just like a regular serial port in a DOS window. I have one (generic $5 one, no name brand) for my laptop that I use for programming routers and other devices that need a serial port. Works like a champ!

Thanks PackerHawk. I'm looking at one by IOGear (GUC232A). It may be overkill but for what she does, I need to have one I can absolutely be sure won't hose up her system.
Thanks again.

ebay is a great place to find affordable cables, I got a great 25' S-video cable for $10

I've networked and RG-6ed my entire home with eBay cable. It's an awesome place to buy that and the connectors that go with them. Me thinks some of that comes from guys bringing home "extra boxes" from "the job site".

quote:

Originally posted by Smedley:
Thanks PackerHawk. I'm looking at one by IOGear (GUC232A). It may be overkill but for what she does, I need to have one I can absolutely be sure won't hose up her system.
Thanks again.

i use those at work with DAQ systems and they are the only ones that are reliable. we've had some off brand ones that just don't seem to work with certain equipment.

sucks having to deal with old equipment but that cable has seemed to work with everything to date.