RS232 Com. Port

[dslybacon]

Hello & I wonder if anyone can help. I'm trying to transfer data from my Laptop via a RS232 cable. The options I have to select from are COMS 1 to 4 but when I try and transfer these are not recognised as valid ports. My question is and realise its probably pretty basic, how do I assign COMS 1 to 4 to RS232 cable port.

[jat147]

The transfer software you're using shows com 1 to 4, but that doesn't exactly represent your hardware - its generic software.
If your laptop is newish, like mine - you probably dont have an rs-232 port.
You're looking for a 9pin male port (with pins exposed).
If not available, try an older pc - best a desktop.
Good luck

[ssstu]

i to have a vista powered laptop,and i also have a usb to rs232 lead and i can,t get mine to work to,but i dont believe that you cannot get them to work,there must be a way to configure vista to accept the lead,my point is why would loads of companys sell the bloody things if they dont work,so if there is anybody out there with the right information could you please help me and many thousands more,,,,many thanks