I have a Lenovo Ideapad that runs Windows 7. I have not purchase an Arduino UNO yet since I have questions regarding the ability to work with my computer. The Device Manager does not list Port (COM) as a choice to select for connection (though this continues to come up as the means to connect the Arduino in my reading and I have accessed all hidden items). The computer has 2 USB ports that can be accessed. My question is, will the USB port function in place of a COM port and will the Arduino set up allow this choice? Thanks.
Simple answer is YES.
The USB port will represent a COM port when the board is attached.
That port will show up in the device manager under Ports COM & LPT.