Need to get a new PC tomorrow - just the box. We'll use it to talk to our friction welder while we get the main unit repaired.

The software app talks to the welder via COM1 so the new computer box will need a COM1 / IRQ4 / 3f8 BUT I'm not sure if new PC's still have COM ports ?

Would a modern motherboard have COM ports onboard or, would I need to buy a serial card ?

 

Many of them don't have them these days. You can get a usb to serial adapter, but there's no garauntee that it will work with your hardware. I suspect you'd have to get a card...

 

Most motherboards have the header port and supply a header lead which you can mount when you build.

If this is the case, I'll post one out to you for free (9 pin I assume)

 

thats for the info (and offer lightning)

will check with computer supplier when buying system later today - the motherboard header port you mention would be ideal, but if not, I'll pick up a serial card.