[amsat-bb] Sat Programs to USB Interfacing

["Keith O'Brien" <n4zq@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

In the past I have been using an old P2 400MHz computer for all my satellite 
business. SatPC and Instant Track for Ft-847 doppler control. The Rigblaster 
for radio interfacing for the digital modes on the birds. Like AGW Packet 
Engine and PSK31 for use on the ISS and PCSat's.

Well, after many years of faithful service it's about time for a new 
machine. But the problem I face, with no experience, is the fact that the 
new one computer will only have USB ports and no RS232 ports. So I ask if 
there are any pitfalls or issues I should be aware of when ordering a USB to 
RS232 adapter cable.

The first question that comes to mind is how do you select which USB ports 
becomes which RS232 port number. All of my present sat programs require I 
pick a Comm Port number to interface with the radio. Is there a software 
driver included with these adapter cables that has to be loaded?  No mention 
of any is made in these adapter ads.

http://sewelldirect.com/USBtoDualDB9SerialPort.asp

http://www.ebusinesscables.com/usb_serial_cable.htm


For those of you that have been down this road in the past and can shed some 
light on it, I would appreciate hearing from directly to guide me in this.

Thanks... Keith N4ZQ/2
n4zq at hotmail.com
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