Best tuning computer with parallel and serial?
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 725
Likes: 4
From: Plano, TX
Best tuning computer with parallel and serial?
My accel gen 7 tuning computer is on its last leg. Would like to know what some of you are using. How are you getting around the parallel and serial port limitation and still getting good speed/compatabilility?
Pro
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 644
Likes: 15
From: Clarksville Tennessee
I used a Dell D610 laptop. It was refurbished and updated with the latest programs. I brought for $200 at a local Computer repair shop. It works great for tuning. I haven't had any trouble with it. It has the serial port connection as well as USB ports.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 1999
Posts: 876
Likes: 9
From: Mooresville NC
USB to Serial Cables will work fine, if you get the right ones.
Try to get these characteristics:
- FTDI Chipset based cables. Prolific is usually OK too, but there older drivers had a nasty bug that could crash Window. That seems to be fixed in the current windows drivers.
- Well shielded and length of 3' or less cable. USB cables are much more sensitive the EM noise inside a car as they run at a lower voltage, so you want it to well shielded and if you need more length, you are better off extending it with a traditional Serial cable.
Try to get these characteristics:
- FTDI Chipset based cables. Prolific is usually OK too, but there older drivers had a nasty bug that could crash Window. That seems to be fixed in the current windows drivers.
- Well shielded and length of 3' or less cable. USB cables are much more sensitive the EM noise inside a car as they run at a lower voltage, so you want it to well shielded and if you need more length, you are better off extending it with a traditional Serial cable.
