Ok, I'll look it over. thanks for the help!

Arthur - I've downloaded and installed the programs and also the pdf but can't quite understand how to contol the activex component. I'm using excel and vba; is there an example of that somewhere.

I'm sorry but I don't understand what you're saying.
You have an activeX control that will do what I'm asking; but beyond that you lost me.

What do I need to install the control?
Is there a trial version of whatever that I can try to see if if will do what I need?

I'm not sure where this question should go, so move it if necessary.

I have numerous excel data sheets that include cells to hold information from various rs-232 enabled devices such as balances, torque meters, and thickness guages.

I want some way of inputting the data into the correct cell and then having the program move to the next cell, input that data, an continue the process.

I'm just starting to investigate rs-232 data capture and would welcome any advice as to which route to take with this type of application.