" . . . Also, I do have a question for the computer wizkids....My version of Flitestar [a flight planning program] connects to a GPS only via a COM PORT, but the 96C [GPS] uses only USB. Does anyone know how I can get the USB port to be recognised as a COM PORT so I can use it with Flitestar?"

I am posting this on behalf of a fellow aviator in the UK.

Anticipated thanks for your help.

This??

http://sewelldirect.com/USBtoSerial.asp?kid=1181214801&match_type=search

Many thanks, Whyzman!

Alas, the problem hasn't been solved yet.

Unforunately the device is the opposite of what is needed. The cables are not reversible and there apparently is no equivalent to connect a USB device to a PC serial port.

But maybe somebody knows differently??? :confused:

http://sewelldirect.com/DB9GenderChangers.asp

" Does anyone know how I can get the USB port to be recognised as a COM PORT so I can use it with Flitestar?"
Sound like you need a COM port emulator. I use a free driver from DeLorme so that I can connect the Earthmate USB to a virtual COM port for use with Microsoft Streets and Trips. I have not found the equivalent on Garmin's site, and a Google search was not much help. The DeLorme driver might work with Garmin, but I have not tried that.