Hi Barry,
I've got one of these http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=29968&doy=12m9D which works perfectly with Linux. You'll need to compile the Prolific 2303 driver as a module. It's part of the standard kernel source. The module is called pl2303 Most of the cheap USB->Serial adapters use this chip. It'll appear as device /dev/tts/USB0 (assuming you're using a 2.6 kernel).
HTH
Chris
On Mon, 2005-09-12 at 13:51 +0000, Barry Samuels wrote:
I have just discovered that my shiny new Thinkpad R51 doesn't have a serial port !!!!!
I want to be able to connect my GPS which requires a 9-pin serial connector. I see that there are USB to Serial cable adapters available including an IBM one for £50.00 (No thank you).
There are many available on ebay for £3 upwards (including postage) so can anyone tell me if these things are likely to require any special software to make them work. The reason I ask is that they all specify Windows or Mac compatibility - no mention of Linux of course.
Any information gratefully recieved.