Msg: 5262 *Conference*

08-01-94 23:07:43

From: RICHARD HANSON

To : LEX DU PONT

Subj: REPLY TO MSG #5258 (EXTERNAL MODEM CABLE)

----
Hold on ... with all due respect, I think you're mixing apples and oranges.   
Let me see if I can restate your configuration, and offer some ideas.

First off: RS-232C is not a "thing" but rather an "agreement" regarding signals
over wires or serial communications between devices--not the shape of the
connector.  The "RS" stands for recommended standard, and is an IEEE
designation.  Thus, the 232C agreement may exist through D25, D9, 8-pin DIN, or
any other shaped connector.

Your "Tandy" (Aka: Model 200) employs a D25F connector for serial
communications.  It is wired to the 232C agreement.  Most modems also use a
D25F connector.  The "D" indicates the shape of the connector.  A "D" connector
can only be connected in one direction, but is not the only uni-directional
connector on the market.  The 25 indicates the number of leads (Aka: wires).
The "F" stands for female.

Your notation about using a Mac, and that the plugs don't match, is probably in
reference to an existing connecting cable that you presently own.  Ahhhmmm...
let's set that issue asside for now.  Apple Corps' decisions about what
connectors they use in their Mac line was not market driven, and thus does not
match existing microcomputer product norms.  But, with all due respect, "market
norms" are determined by the largest installed base, not by factors involving
the concept of "best."

Okay ... if both your Model 200 and your modem use the same connector, then all
you need is a cable with ends matting the connectors.  I would guess a simple
D25M to D25M cable will do the trick.  You should be able to pick up such an
animal at any general computer store.

So, what is the connector on the back of the modem?  D25F, or D25M, or
something else?  It's been a long time since I've seen a Supera external modem.
It could be that it has a D25M connector--although I doubt it--in which case
you could plug it directly into the D25F connector on the back of your Model
200.

Hope this helps...