I do have a breakout box, adn even a datacomms tester.
They are very
 useful -- when I need them -- but most of the time the above bits get
 the job done and are quicker. 
There have even been times when I've made serial connections work with
bits of spare wire shoved into DB25S and DE9S connectors.  For that you
need gender benders at most. :)
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