| Author | Message | ||
     Stormtrooper1015 |
Well, I just received my new VDSTS (great service from the seller), and from Dave @ Appleton, who tried to get me a unit, but our timing was not in sync. At any rate, I've hooked it up with an older 233 laptop through a rs232 port, but the unit will not go into it's active mode. I can connect an monitor what's going on, but nothing more. It does appear as though the connection isn't that fast either (perhaps laptop issues). It was never what I considered a rocket ship - even when new. It also seems that the software supplied on the cd may not be the most up to date. I may goto technoresearch's site and download the most current version. Has anyone experienced these or similar issues? I have a faster laptop, of course it doesn't incorporate a serial connector, and I would therefore need to use a HS USB to rs 232 adapter... suggestions appreciated. Thanks in advance Mike | ||
| Aeholton |
Never had that problem. However, I do have to "connect" again whenever going from monitor to active modes. Are you sure your port setting is correct? Also, I've never downloaded the current version either. | ||
| Freyke |
First check the instructions for connecting to the VDSTS... Then check the following: Comm port could be bad on the laptop...remove the cable from the VDSTS. then jumper pins 2 to 3 using a paperclip on the end of the serial cable... You should see an echo back from what ever you type in the keyboard.... I don't have a VDSTS but I do a lot of stuff using RS-232 and 422 serial connections... Also, make sure you have the correct type of serial cable ... Likey the VDSTS is a DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) device vice a DCE (Data Communications Equipmet) ... This means you need a staight through DB-9 serial cable vice a null cable where pins tx and rx pins are swapped from end to end... Also the VDSTS may have an option (sometimes a switch) where you can change it from DCE to DTE or visa-versa... Another thing to check would he your HyperTerminal Settings.. You do have Hyperterminal Software? Typically its under: START>PROGRAMS>ACCESSORIES>COMMUNICATIONS>Hyper Terminal Check your settings here too... Under File>Connect To tab, make sure you're choosing COM1 (for the physical DB-9 comm port)... Then check the "Port Settings", typically BPS to 19200 Data Bits 8 Parity 0 (none) Stop Bits 1 is a good starting point... I'm not an expert on the VDSTS, but it should communicate like any other serial controlled type device.... good luck... kk//kef | ||
| Freyke |
Most newer laptops still support a serial connector, you usually just need to poke around all the little rubber caps to find it.... | ||
| Stormtrooper1015 |
Yupper I'm using com one - the software has identified the ECU, and does connect to the bike - displaying tach, tps, temp, etc... however, when I go into Active mode - it does not... hmmmmmm And in term of my nice new laptop... Dell has decided to exclude a serial port on the back, sides or bottom.... just the usb's... | ||
| Freyke |
Sound like you have connectivity and comms... No serial port!?... That's criminal!.. Like you said, you'll need a USB to 232 adapter http://www.serialio.com | ||
| Diablobrian |
Good web site Freyke! | ||
| Tork |
I had very similar problems. I could read the ECU version, therefore it was technically 'connected', but couldn't do any active tests or realtime monitoring. I called one of the software gurus at Technoresearch and he gave me a solution that worked. If you can read the ECU version, your laptop and its RS232 port are fine. The software interface is a little slugish, even on newer laptops (in my opinion), so I think your rig is fine. You need to first download the newest update from Technoresearch. Before you install it, uninstall your current version, including a manual delete of the installation folder on the hard drive (sometimes uninstalls leave breadcrumbs). Reboot your laptop, then install the newest version. Hooking up serial interface cables to a powered laptop can cook your 232 port, so I alway power down when hooking up cables. Fire up your laptop and VDSTS and make sure your ignition is on and the run switch is in the 'run' position. I'm using the same setup you are and the frequent cause of VDSTS connection problems is that the configuration file that is created for your bike sometimes gets corrupted. If you get it working and you have similar problems again, locate the config folder for your bike in the VDSTS installation folder and delete it and reboot. The next time you run VDSTS it will create a fresh config file. Hope this works and saves you from spending more $$. | ||
| Stormtrooper1015 |
I'll give that a try tomorrow morning Tork... I checked the version they have on their website, and I believe I have the same one 2.78.... Once I get it working, I'm going to install the race ECM, and try a TPS reset. Did I remember reading that there is a button in one of the menus to reset the AFV as well? Did you manage to get this feature to work? Thanks Mike | ||
| Sgthigg |
Make sure you got the latest updates for your serial port and the newest patch for the vdsts software..Its available on techno research's web sight..Trust me They went from a "C" version all the way up to a "E" for the palm pilot in one week.. This fixed my problem goodluck | ||
| Tork |
Yep. AFV reset is in there. You can't read any values, just reset. Too bad their software requires a dongle. They could probably sell more copies if potential customers could download a demo that would let them go through the menus and test drive it, but without the ability to reset anything until they buy it. Also, I would stick to your old laptop if it looks like the RS232 port is working (you can read the ECU version in VDSTS). If you try to use your newer, faster laptop, but have to use a USB-RS232 adapter, you may introduce other problems and end up chasing your tail. There's nothing in VDSTS that requires high end graphics or fast clock speed. Plus, you probably don't want your greasy fingers all over your nice laptop. (Message edited by tork on April 08, 2006) (Message edited by tork on April 08, 2006) | ||
| Stormtrooper1015 |
okee... I checked the software supplied with the kit, and it's the same as is provided online (the most current g version). I've deleted everything, and I'm back at square one - old laptop id's the ECU, but now will not connect at all... Spent the scoots on the Keyspan USB to RS232 - installed it (com 6 which is kinda wierd, but I ain't complaining). It id's the ECU, but will not connect. I'm on my second removal and preparing for another re-installation... So far, not to impressed with the setup. I do not, in any way consider myself to be technology challenged... but this setup is far from plug and play. No offense to those who manufactured it, or who swear by it, but technoresearch needs to find a big Iron, turn the heat up, and go bug hunting. Or at least provide a better reference manual for the most basic of issues - connecting to the ECU, and maintaining that connection. If I'm unsuccessful in my attempt to convince this system to work, I'll either toss it in the air, and obliterate it using something that rhymes with Snotgun... or send it back - It'll depend entirely on my mood at the time, and the absence of neighbours and local members of law enforcement... | ||
| Tork |
Take a break from it. When you're ready to tackle it again, call Technoresearch and ask to talk to one of the techs. Explain your problem and try to be in front of the bike ready to step through it with him. The guy I worked it out with was very patient and thorough. It's worth a shot. The software does what they advertise, it's just not as spit and polished as a Micro$soft product. | ||
| Fullpower |
storm.... can feel yer frustration. call Giamberto at technoresearch, he can walk you through the finicky bastard. his accent is a little tough at first, but you get used to it. | ||
| Stormtrooper1015 |
Alright... Took my wife to the hockey game, grabbed a coffee for the ride home, and chatted it up with a member who's knowledge I'd love to steal... He had similar issues with the software, and is now just using it attached to his Palm Pilot. I finally got the system to connect, and go into active mode (big victory). But it still appears as though the connection is intermittent. We believe that my cables (from Technoresearch) may be to blame. When jiggled the correct way (not in the manual) I got it to work... I'm going to try to reset the TPS tomorrow if I can keep connected. I want to see how the Race ECM performs... I'll call Technoresearch on Monday, and see if they can offer assistance with the cabling. In terms of which laptop I'm using - the old mangy one with the true serial port - still no connectivity with the Keyspan - Hopefully the store will accept the return. Thanks all for the information - It's much appreciated. Cheers Mike |
