I tried another USB port and it can do all functions on the DIP 876 & 877.
Good call.
However, I still cannot see the 877 in the PLCC package. It comes up as ID 00.
So much for short lived happiness....
To reiterate from waaaaaay back before I confused my own internal logic, the adapter I made is pin name for pin name straight through connected.
I will offer a picture in a bit. I have to go into the village right now.
Thanks for setting me straight on th USB issue.