I *thought* it looked garbled. I was afraid it indicated something was wrong.

I've conned one of my Linux-enabled friends to help me tomorrow. I'm assuming he'll be able to get a better serial port output. Is there anything else you can recommend (I know you don't have much info at this point; not trying to be pushy)?

And thank you *so* much (and to Mr. Fabris as well) for your help and suggestions so far.