RB0 + Internal Pullup + Interrupt

[mackrackit]

I haven't been using a max232 chip on this project because the voltages were within tolerance, and I just don't have the room... maybe I'll have to build an external serial adapter...

I think that solves it. Look at the PBP manual.
Install an inverter as the manual states when using hardware serial or change your code to software, SERIN2/SEROUT2, and get back with us.

[Freman]

*sigh* Just another one of the things that leave me asking WTF were they thinking when they designed these chips... oh well..

[mackrackit]

*sigh* Just another one of the things that leave me asking WTF were they thinking when they designed these chips... oh well..

I bet they had a good reason.... Who knows what it was. Might be that a 232 type chip can bring the levels up to true RS232 levels that a micro can not because of the voltage they run at.

Most times the software solution will work and you then have the benifit of using most any pin. About the only time I use hardware (HSERIN/OUT) is if I need it running in the background as in an interrupt. Of course if something else triggers the interrupt then you can have the software routine in that interrupt.

All kinds of possibilities.