Connecting a Skywatcher AZ EQ6-GT GEQ & Alt-Az Mount to a laptop without a RS323 port

[daaveyboy]

Can anybody shed some light on how to connect a Skywatcher AZ EQ6-GT mount to a laptop that does not have a RS-232 port on it. New laptops do not have these on them now.

Older laptops had it on as the attached photo shows but not new ones.

[Dr_Ju_ju]

You either buy or make your own USB to serial adaptor.

The basic adaptor can be found on flea bay for between £5-£10, this is then wired to a cat5 network lead (cut one off) & just need to install some drivers & you're away, it's what I use....

Have a look at this thread  http://stargazerslounge.com/topic/130721-usb-eqdir-for-under-4/

[Knighty2112]

You can get a USB to serial adapter from Maplins, or Amazon or even EBay too. Not too expensive either.