I'm using the rs-232 port on a NCD X terminal as a console with a
164lx.  NCD says:

	9600 baud  8 data bits  1 stop bit  no parity  no handshake

and it works fine.

I suggest hooking up an rs-232 LED display.  Two color LEDs on
transmit, receive, DTR, DCD, etc.  Make sure all seven light up.
You might need a null modem.

> Set serial line from COM1 of Alpha machine to other machine
> (currently only available machine is windows)

> windows hyperterminal

wintel is always suspect.  Might try a "live CD" of NetBSD,
Linux, or whatever and use tip or cu.