Editing the Windows Registry can severely damage your computer unless you know what you're doing. Regardless, if you're comfortable editing the Windows Registry and are careful to back up your registry first, then you can prevent this program from running automatically by deleting the following key:

You'll then want to transfer a copy of the "COM Port Set Utility" shortcut from your Windows Programs menu to your Windows Desktop. This allows you to launch the program when you need it, without having yet another program constantly running in the background.

If you encounter the window shown back in Figure C, attach the cable to your computer and then click the Manual button. The dialog box shown in Figure D appears, from which you can make the appropriate changes.

FIGURE D


You can assign the cable to an open COM port. Roll over picture for a larger image.

You should then click Set. You're now ready to synchronize or charge your Palm handheld. Keep in mind, though, that you may also need to change the HotSync manager to the appropriate COM port, as shown in Figure E.

FIGURE E


Ensure that the HotSync Manager is assigned to the correct COM port. Roll over picture for a larger image.

In my case, I still use my cradle when my laptop is docked at my desk, so I have to remember to toggle the HotSync Manager between COM1 when I'm docked and COM2 when I'm using this cable in the field.

Since the USB cable draws power from your laptop, you now have an easy option with regard to recharging on the road. Or, in my case, recharging when I think about it, which is usually when I'm out of the office. This feature is ideal for international travelers, who no longer have to worry about carrying an additional power adapter for recharging their Palm handhelds.

System requirements
This product requires Windows 98 or later and an available USB port. Other requirements are a Palm V or Palm Vx and version 3.1 or higher of the Palm OS. Since you have to assign an open COM port to the USB cable, it's possible that you could run into conflicts with other devices in your computer. However, as shown back in Figure D, you potentially have up to ten ports to choose from. In my case, the synchronizing with this USB cable took about the same amount of time as using the Palm cradle.

Conclusion
From a hardware standpoint, this is a very clever product for road warriors. My only complaint is that the software component could be more elegant. If you're a road warrior with a laptop, or if you have a new computer without a serial port, this may be the ticket for you. The Targus USB Charge-Sync Cable for Palm V retails for $29.95.

David H. Ringstrom, CPA is a freelance writer and is president of Accounting Advisors, Inc. He can be reached via email at david@accountingadvisors.com or on the Web at http://www.accountingadvisors.com.