Connection problem with computer to sewing machine...

Question

I have the new Designer Plus software V5 and Windows XP. I can't establish a connection from the computer to the reader/writer device or the machine. I have two serial comports on the back of my computer. I first disconnected and uninstalled my scanner as I read that it may cause an interference. I tried both comports but get either of these messages depending on which comport I choose. "The serial port is engaged." or "There is no link to the serial port." I tried a Keyspan connection device for a USB connection and got the same messages.