I have a newer notebook that is also devoid of RS232 ports. I solved that problem with a low cost 4 port USB hub and four USB to RS232 bridge cables. It works like a charm!!

I have been recently working with the IAR Compiler (sorry....but on Atmel AVR type parts) and the options setting dialog that selects the serial port for the C-Spy debugger only allows selection of COM1 -> COM4. Gosh it makes me mad!!! When will these people wake up. Today with the wide use of notebooks with onboard MODEMS, FAX capabilities, IRDA ports, some Blue Tooth ports etc etc many of the standard COMM port allocations 1 to 4 are already used up despite the absence of a COM1 connector on the side of the unit. Bring your USB to RS232 bridge cable and install the drivers. Look in Device Manager to find which ports these cables are allocated to and do not be the least bit surprised to see the likes of COM5: COM8: or even COM10:. IAR Compiler / Debugger writers...get a life.

Michael Karas