Batboard

I have an IBM with xp to run CPS but doesn't have a serial port RS232 so i cant hook up my RIB. I've seen some of those PCMIA or expressport card to serial adapters for it. Would they be okay or should i just get a laptop with the serial port built in? Thanks.
Also will i have trouble telling the CPS where the comm port is.

first what cps are you trying to run? And yes, a laptop with a real serial port is always the best way to go

Thanks for your reply. I'm using Astro Spectra CPS 05.02.00 and Astro Mobile 25 R12.00.00

The PCMCIA cards will work just fine with Windows CPS. They do give a 'real' serial port, as they interface directly to the serial bus within the computer. Once you install it, it will automatically assign itself to a COM port, which you can view in Windows device manager. Most CPS should also automatically 'see' the new COM port, whatever the number of it is, and allow you to choose it. Some older CPS packages may only work with COM 1-to-4, in that case you can change the COM port number in device manager.

Todd