We have examined many different USB adapters and found the type that we sell to work best with all of our instruments. Other adapters may work, but they may not.

We can only guarantee the FTDI adapter that we sell. It is included with many of the LI-COR instruments that require serial communication with a computer. We have found that some third-party USB adapters (Prolific, for example) do not accurately transmit all the data from the instrument to the computer, or vice versa. You should use an adapter with an FTDI chipset, and Belkin and Keyspan adapters typically work well with our instruments too.

Yes, but you'll need to install the drivers. Here's how:

1. Download the drivers here and unzip the file.
2. On Windows 7 or 8, press the Windows key () and type Device Manager and press Enter to open your device manager.
3. Under Other Devices, select the LI-830/LI-850.
4. Right-click LI-830/LI-850 and select Update Driver Software.
5. Browse and select the folder with the driver files.
6. Click Next to finish installing the drivers.
7. When they are installed, you should see LI-COR 8x0 under Ports (COM & LPT).

Now you should be able to connect with the instrument.