Hey Tim, I have just got myself one of these from the UK. Allows direct connection to the laptop either through a USB hub at your mount or a USB extension cable to the laptop. It has eliminated many of the connection issues I had with EQDIR-RS232-USB-LAPTOP connection. Ended up about $95 delivered but well worth it. It connected straight away, is very sturdy and I recommend it.
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/sky...q8-mounts.html