MSD 8973 lessons learned...

Right off MSD Website for laptops that have NO serial plug and only use a USB. We found that most other USB to Serial Adapters just go to sleep if not used and you are unable to talk to the 8972 from your laptop.

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Today you’re hard pressed to find a laptop or notebook computer with an RS232 / DB 9 pin connector or Serial connection. Most all computer manufactures have made the move to USB connections varying from one to as many as 5 USB connectors.

One would assume these connection ports would be an easy “plug and play” connection unfortunately they NOT. Some of these adapter cables “USB to 9 pin / RS232” fall short of simply making the connection or keeping the adapter cable “awake”. In some cases if the adapter cable goes to “Sleep” or “hibernates” a complete shut down and restart of the computer is necessary. To date we have found an adapter cable that just simply works and does NOT require any Software or drivers to run it, just plug it in.

The adapter cable is available from “IOGEAR” www.iogear.com part number is GUC232A
IOGEAR calls it a “USB to Serial / PDA Converter Cable”

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