Serial to USB

[jessho]

I have a total station (surveying instrument) that has a serial cable for connecting to a pc. Communication with my desktop, which has a serial port, is no problem, but using a serial to usb adapter to my laptop is a problem. I have the newest drivers for the cable, the communication setting are the same, but the information won't transfer completely. I was told it just won't work, but before I give in, I wanted to ask if anyone knew of a way to get around this problem.

[EzyStvy]

Adapters are tough...Sometimes they work with some devices and sometimes they don't...Have you contacted the maker of the surveying instrument?

[jessho]

The manufacturer addresses the problems in their knowledge base. They pretty well say that these devices sometimes work, and sometimes don't. The easy work around is to spend another $2000 for a data collector, which stores, and transfers data with usb.

[Panama Red]

I've read that not all serial/usb adapters are created equal. I chose an IO Gear unit for my old Palm PDA and also recommended it to a friend with an engine rebuilding shop as a solution to connect a data collection device to his laptop. Both have worked well for us. I can't guarantee anything for your situation but it might be worth a try.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812107906

Note the differing uses sited in the reviews and the consistently high ratings. Also note, this is a usb 1.1 device only.

[glc]

What type of card slot does your laptop have - PCMCIA (Cardbus) or ExpressCard? You can buy a serial port card for either type.

[jessho]

You know, the thought of an additional card didn't even cross my mind. I'll check, and see if I can add a card.

Thanks. This issue has really become a sore spot in the last few days. The total statiion is new, I've never dealt with the data transfer details, and have found that the information on doing what I want to do is limiited. I need the portability of the laptop for field adjustments, but have so far, have found I will be forced to download data at the office. To add insult to injury, I just received a purchase order to collect information on fifty acres of land. The boss is tapping his foot and my solutions haven't fit in his idea of productivity.