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...