Older P.c.

[cloudhopper]

Hi our radio group needs 2 desk top box PCs we can network together to control a radio station. Each machine needs 2 true RS 232 DB9 ports and an LPT port in addition to the usual ones. The software runs on Windows XP and 500k of RAM is enough. Fast processors etc. are not required.

So if anyone knows a shop or person around CM that has somewhat dated machines for sale that are likely to fit these requirements please let me know. TIA

[Semper]

I've seen a couple of shops in Pathip Plaza, that deals with second hand computers.

[Rancid]

Some of the computers you see in shops for repair are pretty ancient, surely TV classifieds would have something for sale?

[happysanook]

Can check ICON area as well. Several large computer centers with many shops inside. Often have 2nd hand PC's that would easily fit your bill.

[Rob8891]

There's a shop on Sripoom, near chang Phuak, but I can't remember which side of the gate. Lots of PCs , some looking old and second hand, some new. Hope this helps!

[WinnieTheKhwai]

Another thought: Use modern, more reliable hardware with a USB to RS232 converter.

http://sine.ni.com/nips/cds/view/p/lang/en/nid/12844

http://www.amazon.com/StarTech-ICUSB2324-RS232-Serial-Adapter/dp/B000YB0NQG

Old hardware is more likely to be flakey, i.e. worn fans and drives, issues caused by damage from heat and dust and so on.

[cloudhopper]

Thanks but we've already gone through several USB/RS232 cables without success. The point about new gear is well taken though - would it be possible for a shop to build a new machine with true RS232 ports?

[WinnieTheKhwai]

I see.. I guess most PCs / mainboards still include at least one traditional PCI expansion slot, meaning you could plug one of these in if the mainboard doesn't support RS232 on the board itself.

http://www.amazon.co...ords=rs-232 pci

Or PCI Express: http://www.amazon.com/Best-Connectivity-SD-PEX15022-PCI-Express-MSC9901/dp/B003D3MFHM/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1351908736&sr=1-1&keywords=rs-232+pci

Edited November 3, 2012 by WinnieTheKhwai

[cloudhopper]

That looks like a good solution - thanks.

[WinnieTheKhwai]

Another thing to look into, some boards may include a single RS232 port on the outside, but an additional one as a header on the mainboard. That means you can plug an additional DB9 port into the free header on the mainboard.

Such as this cheapo board that includes CPU: http://www.intel.com...ard-d525mw.html

Edited November 3, 2012 by WinnieTheKhwai