PCMCIA serial port card for RS232?

[Caprirs]

From what I read after several searches, the USB-to-serial port adapters seem to be unreliable for RS232 communications. Does any one have experience with the PCMCIA adapter cards like this one? Would this device allow me to use my newer laptop for RS232 transfers? Do such devices suffer the same issues as the USB adapters or do these overcome that and create good ol' COM ports?

[dcoupar]

I've never used the StarTech brand, but it should do the trick. I've used Quatech and SIIG, never had a problem with either.

[Caprirs]

Thanks for the input. Can you see any reason why the brand might make a difference? I only referenced that particular card because I stumbled across it on Newegg.

[dcoupar]

It shouldn't, but you never know. Like Yugo vs. Mercedes... they're both cars but brand can make a difference. Make sure you can return the unit without restocking fee if it doesn't function correctly.

[MaxMus]

Actually then newer USB to serial RS232 adapters are better then the old models. I have used several which works perfectly fine with Windows 7 and a lot of other devices. However, if you insist on using a PCMCIA card then I have used this serial RS232 PCMCIA card successfully with many different applications. Its probably one of the best cards out there. The price is a bit higher than average but well worth it if its working for you.

[mfgbydesign]

I use a docking station (port replicator) for my IBM laptop. I tried a USB - serial adapter from Radio Shack, didn't work, returned it, and bought the new docking station on Ebay for less.
The port replicator remains connected to the machine, I drop the laptop on there and transfer files via DNC.

[underthetire]

Been using the USB to serial for years on multiple laptops. Never had a problem.