problem downloading
 

Bought a new playback tach earlier this year, brand new windows 7 laptop and USB to DC9 cable. have not been able to download data. Get a "comp port error message" every time. Had a computer guy check lap top and it was OK, spent an hour with tech at tach company, they are baffled. anybody out ther have a similar experience or able to offer any suggestions?

Re: problem downloading
 

Some USB to DC9 cables don't work with certain things. I had that trouble back when I was using a FAST system.

Re: problem downloading
 

Dave,

The ports have to be aligned in the software & computer. If there is any way you can have the laptop & USB to serial convertor in front of you & call me we should be able to get it done in a couple of minutes. If not here are the steps.

Start menu
Control panel
Device manager
Ports (click the arrow next to ports)
Under this there should be the USB to serial port convertor with a comm number next to it. The comm number needs to be 1-4. If it is not click port setting tab on the top & advance. There will be a drop down box next to the comm number, please pick 1-4. The comm will not be able to be used if it is in use. Once you have done this open up the Tachfact software, options, system options, & select the port.

If you have any questions I can be reached at 866-248-6356

Marc Erickson
Auto Meter Products

Re: problem downloading
 

A lot of younger guys don't like to hear this, but the best thing to take to the race track is an older laptop. Many "discount" computer supplies have refurbished higher end Dells, which have a com port and Windoz XP, both of which cause a lot fewer problems than the newer versions of Windoz and those usb adaptors. Around here those Dells sell for $300.00 to $400.00. They are usually new units that got sent back for problems found on the assembly line. Some are warantee fixes. My last two had never been used.
Save your nice new fancy stuff for home.

Re: problem downloading
 

USB to serial port converters have always been real touchy. I don't know why they just wouldn't make it USB to USB?

Re: problem downloading
 

I agree. Make the stuff USB from the beginning. Everything has USB ports.

Re: problem downloading
 

We are in the process of redesigning the Ultimate tachs & the they will feature a USB download.

Marc Erickson
Auto Meter Products

Re: problem downloading
 

Gauge Guy, will we be able to send our old tach in for an update?

Re: problem downloading
 

The new Ultimate will be a whole new design, unfortunately the older tachs will not be able to be updated.

Re: problem downloading
 

You might have to go into the device manager on the laptop and adjust the port settings for the usb to serial port adapter.

what USB adapter did you get might be able to help you out...

Also you can look to see if there is a docking station/Port Replicator avalible for the laptop with a serial port on it.

or even this http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/p...=baynoteSearch
Dan

Re: problem downloading
 

Thanks for all the help/suggestions gentlemen; I'm still working on this problem and will let you know what the solution was.

Re: problem downloading
 

Ed:
you are absolutely correct. With the newer ECM's I have been repeatedly been told older laptops are better! With my Bigstuff program I use a Radioshack converter and have experienced no problems downloading from the Big stuff Logger. It sounds like the playback tachs may like the older software as well?

Dean

Re: problem downloading
 

Interesting thread, actually some of the posts made me feel better, because I have struggled off and on with my progammable msd using that usb to serial port converter cable. Even though I use the same xp laptop, occasionally it doesn't seem to find the usb port. I fooled with it for 20 minutes at indy before i got it to work. I am using the same radio shack cable as Dean.

I am interested in getting another laptop as was described earlier in this thread, what type of store should i look for, is it the local independent type ? and are they usb or serial equipped or both ?

Thanks

Re: problem downloading
 

Dave:
Once in a blue moon, I will get a comm port error (not recognizing the identified comm port). I then re-activate the same port and it goes away??? must be a computer software glitch I guess? If you are going to use the laptop with race electronics ( I assume u r?), I would stick with the older programs like windows and XP these seem to be far more race electronic/computer friendly. Hell, we both know that I only know just enough to be dangerous to myself! LOL

Re: problem downloading
 

Locally we have at least two P.C. repair places that carry the refurbished Dells. Many higher end Dells have a com port. They are built for business, not for kids playing games. I would check the phone book for something like wholesale computers, or just google "refurbished Dell laptops" in your area.

Re: problem downloading
 

Thanks guys, I will be out to some local shops soon

I too am in the "dangerous around computers catagory" ,

Re: problem downloading
 

Dave
I use a gadget called KEYSPAN which adds a comm port to a DELL laptop (XP) - Just plugs in the USB port - works fine for last 4 years

Re: problem downloading
 

Just a quick update on my dilemma, had a computer expert check out my new lap top and it is working correctly (Window 7). Also down loaded tach program from web site and still no go. Next step, down load Window XP and give it a try. I know some of you recommended using the old program but I have the new 7 program and thought it would work, guess I was wrong. Thanks again for all the suggestions, will keep you posted.

Re: problem downloading
 

Here's what I've accomplished so far; borrowed an old laptop with XP, was able to down load but took long time and when I viewed information, it appeared compressed and un-useable. stay tune, further updates to follow.