To create the link, log on as root and enter the following command:
ln -s /dev/ttyS0 /dev/pilot |
chmod a+rw /dev/ttyS0 |
As always, the operation seems to be set up differently under different distributions.
modprobe visor |
modprobe usbserial |
This is used by some distributions, such as Redhat 7.0.
If you need to set up USB support in your kernel, the Handspring Visor with Linux mini-HOWTO provides instructions. (TODO: Incorporate into this HOWTO?)
Once USB support is set up, you should use device /dev/ttyUSB1 to communicate with your PDA. Note that this device name only exists after you have pressed the hotsync button on the cradle. You must press the button before running the connection software.
If you have problems synchronising via USB, try an updated kernel. There may be some timing issues with the USB driver. For example, I found that stock Mandrake 8.1 did not work on one PC, but worked first time on a faster PC. Upgrading to a stock 2.4.17 kernel solved the problem and worked fine on both PCs.
David A. Desrosiers has written a comprehensive HOWTO on the subject. (TODO: Include this inline?)
Once again David A. Desrosiers has written a (less comprehensive) HOWTO on the subject. (TODO: Include this inline? Not convinced of the value of this method - anyone care to comment?)