How can I obtain serial data from RS232 instruments?

[skeezer]

I want to read digital data (weight) from an analytical balance and (wavelength) from a Spex spectrometer.  Both are equipped with RS232 interfaces. I have a NI SC-2311 signal conditioning module connected to a NI PCI-MIO-16E-1 card. I have Labview 7.0, and using the Measurement and Automation Explorer have set up a virtual DIO channel. I next need to physically connect my instruments to the DIO channel through SC-2311, bu tI am not sure how to proceed.  Will I need instrument drivers for this task?

[Dennis_Knutson]

Trying to connect RS-232 to a DAQ card just does not make any sense. If your pc does not have built in ports, buy a couple of USB-RS232 adapters.

[skeezer]

Thanks, I'll try that.