jack68kFeb 28

#MARCHintosh 2026 is here and I'm excited to share a project I've been working on!

https://tinkerdifferent.com/threads/reconnaissance-modern-diagnostics-for-your-classic-mac.5098/

https://reconnaissanceapp.com

Reconnaissance: Modern Diagnostics for your Classic Mac

#MARCHintosh 2026 is here and I'm excited to share a project I've been working on. https://reconnaissanceapp.com You may know that many Classic Mac models have a diagnostics mode built into the ROM that you can access over a serial connection. But it's extremely cumbersome, limited, and there...

TinkerDifferent
Show threadScott Small 🇨🇦Feb 28

@jack68k Holy crap, this is going to be so useful! Amazing work!

Now I just need to pick up a cable and serial adapter 😂

Show threadjack68kFeb 28

@smallsco Thanks!! In fact I created a thread about serial adapters and cables, and I have several more options en route to figure out what the cheapest options are 😅

https://tinkerdifferent.com/threads/usb-serial-adapter-and-cable-options.5099/

USB-Serial Adapter and Cable Options

Creating this thread to track USB-Serial adapters and cables that can be used to make a serial connection between a Classic Mac and a modern machine. In case you haven't seen it: Reconnaissance: Modern Diagnostics for Your Classic Mac USB Serial Adapters Both FTDI and Prolific chipset based...

TinkerDifferent
Show threadeuroplus Mar 2

@jack68k @smallsco my understanding is the short answer is FTDI drivers are built in to macOS since 10.9. Not sure if any later ones have scorched that.

There are also official drivers, but not sure what OS versions are covered, so I gives I should go read the thread!

Show threadjack68k
@europlus That's right, I've tried several FTDI converters and they've all worked out of the box on macOS. The Prolific ones have been problematic.
Mar 2 at 3:45amIvory for Mac
Show threadeuroplus Mar 2
@jack68k similar to my experience with the Prolific (thanks for dredging up those traumatic experiences!)
Show threadjack68kMar 2
@europlus prolific refers to the degree of failure, obviously 🔥