HyperTerminal and other Terminal Emulators

A terminal emulator, such as HyperTerminal, is a software application that enables a PC to communicate via modem or a TCP/IP connection to a Global Remote Monitoring System. If your computer does not have a terminal emulator, you'll need to install one of the many low-cost or no-cost applications that are available from various third-party sources. We'll review a few of the most popular terminal emulators and tell you how to get them.

HyperTerminal

HyperTerminal, which was once bundled with the Windows, is arguably the world's most popular terminal emulator. It is easy to use and remains a viable product that we continue to recommend for use with our remote monitoring systems. How to use HyperTerminal

NOTE: You may already have it! Most older computers running Windows 95 through Windows XP include a full version of HyperTerminal (click "Start", "Accessories", "Communication"). Also, Windows 7 Professional includes a "Windows XP Mode" that includes HyperTerminal. If you have a licensed copy of Windows 95 through Windows XP, you can install it as a dual-boot operating system on a new computer. Each time you reboot your computer, you'll be given the option of using Windows XP or the new operating system. Choose Windows XP to access HyperTerminal. A much simpler approach is to move the HyperTerminal files from your old installation disk to your newer computer. Create a folder named HyperTerm. Search the installation disk for files named 'hyperterm.dll' and 'hyperterm.exe' and move them into the HyperTerm folder. Create a shortcut that points to 'hyperterm.exe.

Alternative Emulators

Below is a description of some of the many terminal emulator options available to you. HyperTerminal Plus The company that created HyperTerminal for Microsoft offers an updated version (HyperTerminal Plus) with new features and full Windows 7 compatibility. It is available for evaluation or purchase at www.hilgraee.com

HyperAccess

The company that created HyperTerminal for Microsoft also offers "HyperAccess"; an advanced communications application that supports scripting. It is available for evaluation or purchase at www.hilgraee.com

Indigo

The application that Global Monitoring has adopted for internal use is "Indigo" by www.shadeblue.com Indigo's user-interface can be difficult for first-time users, but the program itself is robust and reasonably priced. Indigo supports advanced scripting but lacks an xmodem file transfer capability. Nevertheless, we highly recommend this program for more advanced users.

Free Alternatives to HyperTerminal

1 - Check your modem manufacturer's website for free utilities and software downloads or contact their technical support department. Many modem manufacturers offer free terminal emulation software to their customers.

2 - Search a reputable download site (such as cnet.com or download.com) for free terminal emulation software. There are many excellent terminal emulations programs in the public domain or with a free-to-use license. One such program is "PuTTY". Please beware of the risks associated with software downloads. Recommendation: Most users should use HyperTerminal. Advanced users requiring scripting capabilities should use Indigo.