Hi, I just did some programming with my BC8T last night. It will take a straight through RS232 cable (not a NULL modem cable) . I used a newer Gateway laptop with no Serial port, so I had to use a Usb to serial adapter. Everything worked great, just be sure to set the baud correctly on the scanner and for your serial adapter. I did find the instructions were not complete with the Uniden BC8T software as it didn't mention to hit the "E" key to properly set the baud rate in the scanner. good luck