Question on Suunto Computer Interface

[JamesD]

My new computer doesn't have a serial port *cry* only lots of USB ports, has anyone found a "USB to serial converter" that actually lets the Suunto computers download to the PC ?

I'd love to get one because having to use both my old computer and new computer is just irritating.

 

[MNScuba]

I do computer support for a living, and the best, most compatible and most reliable ones I have found are Belkin:

http://www.belkin.com

Hope this helps... I know it can be frustrating!

 

[Ari]

There are some others as well, but I also have a good experience with the Belkin unit. It's just somewhat expensive.

Ari

 

[ryanm]

Here's another option possibly.... many pc's that don't have a serial port on the outside of the case may very well have a connector for it on the motherboard. If you open the case you may find that it has one on there, and you can buy the cable to go from that connector to an empty expansion slot cover on the back for under $5.

You might also be able to get a parallel (printer) port cable that will convert from the 25 pin down to a standard 9 pin for much cheaper, under $10 at least.

 

[ScubyDoo]

Originally posted by ryanm
You might also be able to get a parallel (printer) port cable that will convert from the 25 pin down to a standard 9 pin for much cheaper, under $10 at least.

That is similar to what I did. The only available port I had was a 25 pin com port. I bought a reducer 25 to 9 at a local computer supply store. Best Buy might have them. They didnt when I checked but I think they were just out at the time. Computer City had them but they cost $16 there. I got one for $4-5. Works just fine!

 

[AndrewBlackburn]

I use a serial port to connect my Vyper, but this means I have to switch off the computer, disconnect my serial mouse and connect the Suunto interface, then switch on the computer again. After downloading, the reverse process takes place - very tedious and time-consuming.

A USB port is supposed to allow "hot switching" which does not need the computer to be switched off first before connecting or disconnecting a device.

If I bought a serial-to-usb converter as has been suggested, would "hot switching" work in this case?

 

[dvleemin]

I'd be extrememly suprised if you computer didn't have a serial port. As Ryan said, if you can't see it, there's a very good chance there's a connector on the motherboard.

Darryl