Get a genuine adapter like this worked first time brilliant piece of kit.

Hi
I bought this cable as the one supplied with my (2nd hand) telescope was not up to the job.
In a nutshell, when attempting to load new SynScan v3 firmware and failing, the unit will not start.
Using this cable (Being better quality and bearing the SynScan name), my firmware upload went like a breeze and it all works as expected.
Super quick delivery from the FLO too.

Had to update my Synscan handset and having tried four different fully working RS232 dongles I use for electronic device firmware flashing without any issues, each failed. This cable worked flawlessly.

I had problems trying to upgrade my Synscan hand controller. But once I used the cable, the upgrading process was completed quickly and correctly.

Tried many times to upgrade handset with cheaper usb leads of the internet.
Firmware failed to load time and time again.
Purchased this lead and boom loaded the software first time.

The cable worked perfectly with my Orion XT8g GOTO dob.
I used both with my MacBook (drivers can be downloaded at prolific website) and with my Raspberry PI (no drivers needed for linux-based machines).

I decided to update my SynScan V firmware to the latest version using my old Windows 7 Lap top (about time SW introduced an Apple MacOS version!!!). Using a generic USB to serial cable was a disaster. I had difficulty getting the PC to recognise the handset but after some trickery got it to work and the PROM data was erased. However, horror of horrors the communication between PC and handset was then lost and left me with a non working handset with a blank screen.
After researching on various forums I discovered that this was a not uncommon issue and that a chipped cable and socket was the answer. FLO was mentioned as a supplier of the genuine SW cable which I ordered and received by return (excellent service). Et voila - after installing the appropriate driver from the SW site I plugged in and the handset was recognised and the installation completed.
The bottom line is that this is a must have cable and the service from FLO is 5*.
However SW in their documentation only say to use “a” USB to serial connector and do not emphasise that a chipped version should be used and indeed that they supply a one. It is not even mentioned in the Optical Vision Catalogue although it is hidden away on their web site!