Psion/PC connectivity

[GJP46]

I have a Psion Series 7 and a Series 5

Is it possible to have them both connected to the same PC at the same time - either via 2 separate serial port connections, or via 1 serial port connection and one USB connection (converted for use as a serial port)?

Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks in anticipation

Graham Payne

[netBookBabe]

Graham

This is not something I've ever tried, nor felt the need for. I have several Psions all using the same serial connection, but not simultaneously. What's the objective in having them both connected at the same time? I don't think there's any way of having both hooked up via PsiWin 2.x, although if you're connecting one of them for a different purpose, then maybe, but I'm doubtful.

Will look forward to somebody enlightening me otherwise. :)

Julie

[MikeMcC]

By coincidence, this question was asked in the newsgroups two days ago. While two Psions can obviously be physically connected to the PC at the same time, PsiWin can only connect to one of them so only one should have the serial link enabled.

It isn't a solution for networking two Psions and, in any case, EPOC devices cannot see drives on a remote computer in the same way that the Series 3 can.

[GJP46]

The issue really relates to the fact that I'm looking to use docking stations with each machine (this has the advantage of allowing external power to both machines via a single connection - at least in the case of the S5).

If this were not the case, then I take the point that it would be simpler to have one machine connected at a time (too much hassle to be trying to connect serial leads and power leads simultaneously to both machines. Also the S5 docking station has the lead fixed into the housing of the cradle, so can't be used with the S7)

Just a thought!

Thanks for your replies

Graham:)

[WolfUK]

I use a serial port switch box so that my netBook and Revo can co-exist on one serial port (which PsiWin also prefers). This means that when I want to use one machine or the other I just have to flick a switch on a box on my desk.

[GJP46]

Simon

Sounds like the solution.

Where would I get such a device?

Thanks

Graham Payne

[WolfUK]

You can get a switch box at Maplin (http://www.maplin.co.uk/products/module.asp?CartID=030122211654539&moduleno=13347&modulecode=) but you will also need the cables. Make sure that you get the right sort and the right connectors ... I didn't do terribly well and have gender changers all over the place! It might be worth giving them a ring to discuss what you need.

[GJP46]

Simon

Just a note to let you know that I followed your advice and got a switch-box from Maplin (though I had to go back to them for gender changers when I realised the ports on the box were the same gender as on the Psion link cable - and this after emailing them specifically to check what I needed first! However, got what I needed in the end).

Connected everything up today and things worked fine first time.
This solution is so much easier than connecting and disconnecting each machine and I guess also avoids potential conflicts in having two machines simultaneously connected to the PC.

Many thanks for your assistance with this matter.

Graham Payne:)

[WolfUK]

I'm glad you got it sorted out and encouraged that despite asking you had exactly the same problem as me! I guess that switch boxes are just built that way. :(