newb question
 

i want to run my laptop with my new microtech setup so my question is what all do i need to do this? do i have to get the adapter and the software disc? anything else?

you dont need a software disk, you can download it from here--> http://www.microtechefi.com/microtech-software.php

And youll need to assign one of your usb ports as a COM1 or 2 port.

what does it mean to assign the usb port? how do i do that? i thought it connects to the printer port not the usb?

to assign a port plug in the 9-pin -to- USB adapter, then:
1: go to the start menu, right clock on my computer, click properties.
2: go to "hardware" tab, click device manager button
3: click the drop down menu next to "ports", right click on it and hit properties
4:click port settings tab, go to advanced.
5:you should see a COM port drop down menu, change it to com port number 1.

I don't think you'll need to do this if you have a 9 pin connector on your laptop.

PM me if you have any problems.

ok thanks alot... the only port besides the usb ports is the big one for the printer whitch is like a 15 pin conector...do i have to buy a 9pin -to- usb adater too?

You need a serial port. If you don't have one on your system, you need either a USB to serial adapter, or PCMCIA to serial adapter (I prefer the latter).

But you need the laptop adapter.

eh, i thought by adapter he meant usb to 9-pin, so yes, you will need the laptop adapter also.

what kind of cable do i need to connect the serial port on the laptop to to the serial port on the laptop adapter...just a regular serial cable?

I was using a usb-serial adapter, but I think it's causing issues, so I'm switching to a PCMCIA-serial port adapter, they are a bit more pricey. But Aaroncake suggests them and I trust his word.

A straight through serial cable. 9 pin male to 9 pin female. NOT a null modem cable.

ok cool thanx