I was involved with this group years ago. Live outstate. Using opensuse 
11.3 (used SuSE since 6.1, tried others). Just posted links to Linux 
programs using serial port here:
> http://community.freepascal.org:10000/bboards/message?message_id=715768&forum_id=24083

I have had some luck with AVR microcontrollers on serial port.

But I can't figure out how to put any little electronics hardware 
together. I need to reconnect to the Twin Cities tech arts scene. 
Suggestions welcome.