I have a device that I've built that is PIC based that simply monitors contact closures.

It will sense the closure and based on the setting of a trim pot will keep the closure "active" for as long as you desire. In other words, it can convert a momentary contact into any duration you want, up to 20 minutes.

The PIC outputs this closure info as an RS-232 stream.

Here's my question and I hope you don't think it off topic.

Can anyone lead me to a possible windows or linux software product that will
monitor the RS-232 port and allow me to create a customizable display the computer screen will show for this closure information?

Does something like this exist?

For example, say I receive a contact closure at position 3 and I want to assign a title to it like "SMOKE ALARM" or whatever and perhaps even be able to put in a background color bar or make it flash, etc

I have never delved into this area -- I've done a little searching and see RS-232 monitor programs but they just show diagnostic stuff.

THANKS for any help.