Here is some information previously posted by others in response to similar
questions.
The best way to do it is to use the MSComm control that comes with Visual
Basic. If you want to see how this works, load and single step through the
VBTerm sample that comes with it (should be in the \samples subdirectory; if
not, I think you can download it from Microsoft's Visual Basic site).
One important note, though, is that you must know the syntax of the commands
to your meter (or other device), as sent via RS-232. Once you know those
you can simply modify the VBTerm code to suit your own purposes. It's
complex at first, but stick with it!
"Poor Man's Serial Instant Messenger"
http://www.htservices.com/Tools/VisualBasic/SerialCommunications.htm
Visual Basic Serial Communications Example Tutorials Source Code Programs
http://www.cpcug.org/user/clemenzi/technical/Languages/SerialIO.htm
Serial I/O (RS232)
http://www.allapi.net/vbexamples/list.php?category=SOURCE
Regards,
Tom Ogilvy