🚀 go-pugleaf

I'm looking for a device to operate on an RS-232C line (3-wire) and
act as a dynamic switch between two peripherals.  The purpose is to
allow using a magnetic stripe card reader in conjunction with a dumb
terminal.  Unfortunately, the terminal does not provide a bi-directional
auxiliary port and the card reader requires command input.  Because
of the need to command the reader, keyboard-type interfaces won't
work.

Terminals with such a port are available for not much more than those
without, but a lot more than keeping the present terminals.  So my
search is for a cost-effective solution.  Ideally, I'd like a semi-
intelligent device which can recognize a command character to switch
between the terminal and the card reader.  It should pass all other
computer output to the currently selected device and should have some
way to transparently pass the command character also.

Suggestions are eagerly solicited, including plans or kits I could
put into a hobby-type enclosure.  If this description seems unclear,
please ask for clarification.

--
Dave Close, Compata, Costa Mesa CA  "Always" and "never" are two words you
compata@shell.portal.com	     should always remember never to use.
dave@compata.attmail.com		  Wendell Johnson