[NTLK] USB to Newton Interconnect cables

[David Arnold]

Hi all,

I’ve been investigating the possibility of making a batch of USB (type A) to Newton Interconnect cables, with an embedded FTDI USB-RS232 convertor.

These would support direct, dongle-less connection of an MP2000, MP2100 or an eMate300 to a modern Mac or PC.  With recent versions of OSX and Windows (and almost any version of Linux) the FTDI serial adaptor drivers are built in, but they’re also freely available from FTDI.

Pricing is still TBD, but it’s looking like it won’t be as cheap as I’d like: the Interconnect plugs are being quoted at about USD20 each, so a cable will likely cost at least USD30 to make, plus shipping and a share of the fixed costs.  I’m still trying to bring that price down, but for now let’s say USD35 each.

Is anyone interested in these?  How many would you like?




d