Error when I enable a serial port

[mrab]

I am trying to use this software to run an xp virtual drive for some older comms software.
It works great until I enable the serial port with hostmode.

I get error

Failed to open a session for the virtual machine xp.

Failed to open host device 'COM1' (VERR_INVALID_HANDLE).

Result Code: E_FAIL (0x80004005)
Component: ConsoleWrap
Interface: IConsole {872da645-4a9b-1727-bee2-5585105b9eed}

I have tried un installing the ap and then re installing the app but still get this error message.

Any ideas on how to get this working?

[scottgus1]

First, try a tutorial: viewtopic.php?f=2&t=26860
Also web-search:
XP serial port site:forums.virtualbox.org
for other ideas.

[mpack]

Most likely the OP's host does not have a COM1. I would want to see evidence of that (e.g. a screenshot of the host's Device Manager, with opened "Ports (COM and LPT)" branch, plus a zipped copy of the <vmname>.vbox file for the VM.