[Ham-Mac] USB Serial adapters

[Bill Coleman]

On Jun 23, 2005, at 6:29 AM, Tim McLeod wrote:

> I plan to purchase a Keyspan USB to serial adapter for my TNC etc  
> but would
> like some feedback on the Twin Serial adapter (RS422) vs the High  
> Speed
> serial adapter (RS232).  I may also use it for rig control at some  
> later
> date.

I highly recommend any Keyspan adapter. They make solid equipment and  
the driver support for MacOS X is excellent.

When I encountered this choice, I opted for the High Speed serial  
adapter. The key difference is that it comes with a DB-9 connector.

While the mini-DIN 8 connector used from the MacPlus until just  
before the iMac is equally sufficient, it isn't as common and serial  
cables for this connector are harder to find and/or make. (Although I  
probably have a lifetime supply of old Hayes cables) And the cable  
from my K2/100 was terminated in a DB-9.

The dual port business didn't bother me. I figured I could buy two or  
more of these devices if I needed more ports, and use a mini-hub if I  
had to. At the time, I just had need for one port.

Keyspan also makes a four-port product with DB-9s, but it is self- 
powered, not bus-powered. If you need a lot of ports at a fixed  
station, probably the best way to go.

Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASEL        Mail: aa4lr at arrl.net
Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!"
             -- Wilbur Wright, 1901