[transpute]

iPad was already a good SSH terminal with unmatched 4:3 vertical real estate. Orion made iPads into a fun travel monitor for Linux SBCs and embedded hacking. Next we need a serial console app that can work with the USB-C port.

> But we held ourselves to a short schedule, we could risk it. If it made a few bucks, great! If not, we could treat it as the quirky art project it was.

Good budget advice for all science/art projects!

[felixg3]

There is, Termius works with the Redpqrk serial adapter, however it terminates with a RJ-45 plug that’s wired according to Cisco Specs. https://redpark.com/usb-c-console-cable/

[transpute]

Thanks for the pointer! Good news that an adapter exists. Less-good news that Termius placed the serial console feature behind $10/mo subscription. Looks like SecureCRT might be compatible, while GetConsole is abandonware.

Redpark SDK is public, perhaps serial console support can be added to an open-source terminal app, https://redpark.com/developer-tools/

Weird Apple restriction on DB-9 vs RJ-45 interfaces:

  Per current Apple MFI policy — apps developed for the Serial Cable or Serial + Power Adapter may be used in private deployments or deployed via Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager.  However apps may not be deployed via the public Apple App Store. 

  Apps developed for the Console Cables or DEX Cables may be deployed via a public Apple App Store if desired.

[knowaveragejoe]

There is of course a huge abundance of lightweight portable monitors, powerable via USB-C and drivable by the same or HDMI. They're a lot cheaper than iPads and in depending on the use-case, probably make a lot more sense for a portable monitor.

[transpute]

Tablet in traveling hand is worth two monitors in the bush.