[comp.misc] Serial Network

clayj@microsoft.UUCP (Clay Jackson) (10/31/89)

I have what I don't think is a very unique problem, but I can't seem to
find a commerical solution:

I have about 8 different devices that I need to communicate with from my
PS/2 clone (Tandy 5000MC).  These devices (including a two modems, a 
ham radio packet controller, a clock and some others) all have serial (RS-232)
connections.  Rather than tie up every slot in my system with serial boards,
I'd like to get some sort of "black box" that I can hang on ONE serial
port, which would then accept some sort of command telling it "connect me
to device xxx".  A manual switchbox is out, since I want to be able to switch
devices under program control.  A nice feature (although not a requirement)
would be the ability of the box to "listen" and send some sort of message
back to the host if one of the devices sent a signal.

Does anyone know of such a device?  Hopefully something reasonably priced
(<$800)?

Please respond via email, if anyone wants a copy of the responses, let
me know.

Thanks!

Clay Jackson
Microsoft