Hi Bill: For transfer of digital data between radio “CAT” ports and laptop I use the Keyspan USA-19HS interface to an Ultra ULT33056 USB 7 port hub. Although I have the FT 897D, this CAT interface may also work for the FT 847. The laptop is Windows XP/Dell Inspiron. The hub requires it's own 12V source.

Hub:

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2...

RS232 to Serial Interface:

http://www.amazon.com/Keyspan-Speed-Serial-Adapter-USA-19HS/dp/B0000VYJRY This interface works great for both radios Yaesu FT 736R and FT 897D. The hub and Keyspan works great with the G5500 rotor control. Software application interface examples: SATPC32, Nova, UniTrac2003. Ham Radio Deluxe/DM780 works great with the 897D. Hope this example helps. 73 Ron n6paa