but I can help with RS232 serial communication
plan A - you have the Drivesmart USB to serial convertor - just install the drivers to run this on Dawn's laptop (if you promise not to get oily fingerprints on the keys). Take the laptop to the car.
plan B - use the Drivesmart USB to serial convertor on your desktop - bring the ECU into the house (finding appropriate power).
plan C - as plan B - but use a long serial cable to get to the car - but the length you can use depends on the baud - probably fine if 9600. Great for injuring passing children on scooters.
plan D - if you have any modems around you could dial from your home pc to a modem connected to the car (if you can power the remote modem)
I'm getting all nostalgic about rs232 serial communications...time to go home.
Plan A is best.
