Update:
I got Ascom going, got EQMOD going, got Stellarium to interface with EQMOD via Stellarium Scope, PHD 2 connected to Backyard EOS and the latter with Astrotortilla and it all works on the dry dock (dinner table), not even the USB hub gave me grief=very happy camper here
I hope the night will be steady and clear so I can test it under the stars!