Hitachi HIZAC EM comm problems

I have a problem with a Hitachi HIZAC EM PLC, I want to monitor the inputs with my PC but can not get communication going, I am using a RS232 cable with the connection as following: 2-3; 3-2; 5-5; 6-4; 7-8; 8-7; switch 1 on; switch 2 off and on COM2 I am using the free version of ActWin, but do not get communication established, where do I go wrong? any help highly appreciated! thanks

I would check the 'free' version allows connection.
also it is too many years for me to remember.
check that the 2-3 & 3-2 is not 2-2 & 3-3
hope that helps