computer to computer over usb or gpib

[oyester]

I have a need for two computers to communicate with each other but not over an ethernet cable. Any ideas where I can find examples or tutorials.

[smercurio_fc]

Why can't it be ethernet? That would be the simplest solution. Can you provide an explanation as to why you cannot use ethernet?

A serial connection would be the next easiest way to do it. What are you trying to transfer between the two? Is it data? If so, what kind? Are you setting up some sort of communication protocol? Do you have one?

[oyester]

I know this sounds lame, but I can't use ethernet because I was told I can't use ethernet. What I have is two computers, each one driving a different kind of machine, and the two machines take turns doing things to a device. The user wants to set things up from either terminal and then walk away and let the computers have their way with the device via their respective machines. There won't be much data sent from one machine to the other. Mostly commands. A buffer of, say, 2000 characters ought to do it.

[LV_Pro]

serial is probably the easiest. As most computers these days don't have serial I'm going to suggest, despite some problems I'm having (as related in another post) usb to serial adapters. 2000 values wouldn't be a big burden over serial. You will probably have to decide on some type of protocol, particularly if the intent is to be able to make either one the "master" in running the unit being tested. Better yet would be a serial card in the two computers, but that starts actually costing some money.