Most new laptops are coming with an ExpressCard slot. You can find an RS232 adaptor, all you need to make sure is that is not based on USB but on I/O (16550). For example: http://www.synchrotech.com/products-expc/expresscard_34_serial_rs232_adapter_01.html Or a dual one like: http://www.cooldrives.com/twoporsexdbd.html The price is a bit steep though, but definitely cheaper compared to a higher ranked laptop + docking station. For example I have a Dell Vostro 1700 which has a reasonable price + plenty of USB + full keyboard + dual HD and to be honest I would not go for a double or triple priced one which is only that a bit nicer and that has the capability of attaching to a docking station otherwise the same. Tamas On Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 9:17 PM, William Couture wrote: > On Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 3:59 PM, Josh Koffman wrote: > > On Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 1:38 PM, William Couture > wrote: > >> It must have a *REAL* serial port. Not a USB <--> serial dongle. I > >> work in embedded > >> software, and many things are still RS232. USB will not work with too > >> much software. > > > > My Dell d620 came with a real serial port, on the laptop itself even! > > I'm not sure if the current one d630 has it too. I think the d820 had > > it as well. > > Hmmm... the d630 is no longer. The new d6400 has a docking station > with serial. It's on the list... > > Bill > > -- > Psst... Hey, you... Buddy... Want a kitten? straycatblues.petfinder.org > > -- > http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive > View/change your membership options at > http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist > -- http://www.mcuhobby.com -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist