Catalyst Alarmware cable is required for connecting the USB with Catalyst

Is the Catalyst/Alarmware cable required for connecting the USB Serial Adapter to the Catalyst?

Yes. Most single port USB-to-Serial adapters have a 9-Pin male connector on their serial end. This connector is exactly like the serial port connector you used to find on desktop and portable computers.

Don't try using just a Female-to-Female gender changer to connect to the Catalyst Alarmware port. That won't work.

You need to use the standard Alarmware cable. 

Or, if you don't have an Alarmware cable, you can use the type of cable known as a Laplink Cable or a PC-to-PC Data Transfer Cable. The Alarmware cable is the best option since it is a high-quality shielded cable intended for industrial environments.

USB to Serial(DB-9) Adapters Known to Work: