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Firmware Loading!

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capobs

Firmware Loading!

Good afternoon, Folks.

First off, I have NO COMPLAINTS WHATSOEVER on my K3/100 - Kit [S/N 2802]!

I have five Filters installed [the bandwidths of which I won't mention fearing massive retribution - but personally they suite me just fine as I'm a CW operator only!], the Ant Tuner and the 1ppm Ref. Oscillator. A super FB/fantastic rig!

I do have a question and I feel sure the answer will be "Operator Error"!

Here goes:

EVERY time I load a new version of Firmware to my rig or save the "current configuration" using the current version of the Utility, I have to do them both TWICE!

On the Firmware updating, all goes well with the FPF Load [every time] but when it comes to the DSP Load, it gets to about the 30% mark and locks up [every time]. I have to back out of the loading and start again and then it loads OK [every time] .

This malfunction freezes up the Utility stating afterwards that the Serial Port is closed and can't be opened because it is being used by another program. [ ? ] It takes several moments for the Utility to recover.

Similar happenings when I "Save the Current Configuration". It crashes my computer. I have to re-boot and then it saves OK. That is if the Serial Port has recovered.

I using the current version of the Utility for Windows XP. I using a KEYSPAN USB to Serial Adapter.

Thanks for letting an old man rant & rave!

Best 73.

Jim.........
WA4NTM
K1-4 - S/N 2580
K3 - S/N 2802

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N5GE

Re: Firmware Loading!

On Wed, 2 Sep 2009 13:10:25 -0700 (PDT), James Harris
<[hidden email]> wrote:

>
>Good afternoon, Folks.
>
>First off, I have NO COMPLAINTS WHATSOEVER on my K3/100 - Kit [S/N 2802]!
>
>I have five Filters installed [the bandwidths of which I won't mention fearing massive retribution - but personally they suite me just fine as I'm a CW operator only!], the Ant Tuner and the 1ppm Ref. Oscillator. A super FB/fantastic rig!
>
>I do have a question and I feel sure the answer will be "Operator Error"!
>
>Here goes:
>
>EVERY time I load a new version of Firmware to my rig or save the "current configuration" using the current version of the Utility, I have to do them both TWICE!
>
>On the Firmware updating, all goes well with the FPF Load [every time] but when it comes to the DSP Load, it gets to about the 30% mark and locks up [every time]. I have to back out of the loading and start again and then it loads OK [every time] .
>
>This malfunction freezes up the Utility stating afterwards that the Serial Port is closed and can't be opened because it is being used by another program. [ ? ] It takes several moments for the Utility to recover.
>
>Similar happenings when I "Save the Current Configuration". It crashes my computer. I have to re-boot and then it saves OK. That is if the Serial Port has recovered.
>
>I using the current version of the Utility for Windows XP. I using a KEYSPAN USB to Serial Adapter.
>
>Thanks for letting an old man rant & rave!
>
>Best 73.
>
>Jim.........
>WA4NTM
>K1-4 - S/N 2580
>K3 - S/N 2802
>

[snip]

If you have a serial cable and a serial connector on your connector on
the computer, try using the serial cable. There have been many
problems with the USB to serial converters.

Tom, N5GE

[hidden email]
K3 #806, K3 #1055, PR6,
XV144, XV432, KRC2,
W1 and other small kits.
http://www.n5ge.com
http://www.swotrc.net

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Amateur Radio Operator N5GE

capobs

Re: Firmware Loading!

In reply to this post by capobs

Good afternoon, Dick.

Thanks for you quick reply.

a.) - I have a "straight through" 9 male pin to 9 pin female cable.
b.) - As far as I know, the cable isn't a special USB-to-Serial Cable. I have checked it with a meter and there is straight-through continuity on all pins: no groundings or the like. If I need a special cable, please direct me to a supplier or provide a description whereby I can purchase one. I need one about 5 ft. long.
c.) - The KEYSPAN Device Driver is listed as "USA-19H1 - Version String USA-90 2007oct24 13:45" and "v-3.7.0.2" using Com Port 4. [Com Port 3 shows up in the Utility along with the K3's Com Port 4.]

I hope I have answered all of your question to help you help me. If not, I'll try again.

Thanks & Best 73.

Jim................
WA4NTM

--- On Wed, 9/2/09, Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]> wrote:

From: Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!
To: [hidden email]
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 3:14 PM

Tell me about your cabling between the PC and your K3, and if it's a
USB-to-Serial cable, what Device Driver version are you using?

Use the Windows Device Manager to find the device driver version. (Start,
right click "my computer", select "manage", and then "Device Manager". Look
for the COM port you're using with your K3.

This isn't operator error. The K3 Utility shouldn't crash, nor should it
stop in mid-load.

73 de Dick, K6KR

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
[mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of James Harris
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 1:10 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

Good afternoon, Folks.

First off, I have NO COMPLAINTS WHATSOEVER on my K3/100 - Kit [S/N 2802]!

I have five Filters installed [the bandwidths of which I won't mention
fearing massive retribution - but personally they suite me just fine as I'm
a CW operator only!], the Ant Tuner and the 1ppm Ref. Oscillator. A super
FB/fantastic rig!

I do have a question and I feel sure the answer will be "Operator Error"!

Here goes:

EVERY time I load a new version of Firmware to my rig or save the "current
configuration" using the current version of the Utility, I have to do them
both TWICE!

On the Firmware updating, all goes well with the FPF Load [every time] but
when it comes to the DSP Load, it gets to about the 30% mark and locks up
[every time]. I have to back out of the loading and start again and then it
loads OK [every time] .

This malfunction freezes up the Utility stating afterwards that the Serial
Port is closed and can't be opened because it is being used by another
program. [ ? ] It takes several moments for the Utility to recover.

Similar happenings when I "Save the Current Configuration". It crashes my
computer. I have to re-boot and then it saves OK. That is if the Serial
Port has recovered.

I using the current version of the Utility for Windows XP. I using a
KEYSPAN USB to Serial Adapter.

Thanks for letting an old man rant & rave!

Best 73.

Jim.........
WA4NTM
K1-4 - S/N 2580
K3 - S/N 2802

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Dick Dievendorff

Re: Firmware Loading!

I think you're using a USB to Serial Adapter in addition to a "straight
thru" 9-pin male to female connector.

The Keyspan 19HS is a USB to Serial Adapter. COM4 is the port you're
loading the K3 through, right?

If your personal computer has any free serial RS-232 ports (the 9-pin "D"
male type), that's preferable to any USB to Serial adapter.

I believe 3.7 is the current driver version for the Keyspan USA-19H. But
it won't hurt to try updating the Keyspan drivers from the
http://www.tripplite.com/en/products/model.cfm?txtModelID=3914 site (use the
"Help & downloads tab from that site).

Dick, K6KR

From: James Harris [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 1:45 PM
To: Dick Dievendorff; ELECRAFT Reflector
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

Good afternoon, Dick.

Thanks for you quick reply.

a.) - I have a "straight through" 9 male pin to 9 pin female cable.

b.) - As far as I know, the cable isn't a special USB-to-Serial Cable. I
have checked it with a meter and there is straight-through continuity on all
pins: no groundings or the like. If I need a special cable, please direct
me to a supplier or provide a description whereby I can purchase one. I
need one about 5 ft. long.

c.) - The KEYSPAN Device Driver is listed as "USA-19H1 - Version String
USA-90 2007oct24 13:45" and "v-3.7.0.2" using Com Port 4. [Com Port 3
shows up in the Utility along with the K3's Com Port 4.]

I hope I have answered all of your question to help you help me. If not,
I'll try again.

Thanks & Best 73.

Jim................

WA4NTM

--- On Wed, 9/2/09, Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]> wrote:

From: Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!
To: [hidden email]
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 3:14 PM

Tell me about your cabling between the PC and your K3, and if it's a
USB-to-Serial cable, what Device Driver version are you using?

Use the Windows Device Manager to find the device driver version. (Start,
right click "my computer", select "manage", and then "Device Manager". Look
for the COM port you're using with your K3.

This isn't operator error. The K3 Utility shouldn't crash, nor should it
stop in mid-load.

73 de Dick, K6KR

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
<http://us.mc1806.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=elecraft-bounces@....
net>
[mailto:[hidden email]
<http://us.mc1806.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=elecraft-bounces@....
net> ] On Behalf Of James Harris
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 1:10 PM
To: [hidden email]
<http://us.mc1806.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=elecraft@...>
Subject: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

Good afternoon, Folks.

First off, I have NO COMPLAINTS WHATSOEVER on my K3/100 - Kit [S/N 2802]!

I have five Filters installed [the bandwidths of which I won't mention
fearing massive retribution - but personally they suite me just fine as I'm
a CW operator only!], the Ant Tuner and the 1ppm Ref. Oscillator. A super
FB/fantastic rig!

I do have a question and I feel sure the answer will be "Operator Error"!

Here goes:

EVERY time I load a new version of Firmware to my rig or save the "current
configuration" using the current version of the Utility, I have to do them
both TWICE!

On the Firmware updating, all goes well with the FPF Load [every time] but
when it comes to the DSP Load, it gets to about the 30% mark and locks up
[every time]. I have to back out of the loading and start again and then it
loads OK [every time] .

This malfunction freezes up the Utility stating afterwards that the Serial
Port is closed and can't be opened because it is being used by another
program. [ ? ] It takes several moments for the Utility to recover.

Similar happenings when I "Save the Current Configuration". It crashes my
computer. I have to re-boot and then it saves OK. That is if the Serial
Port has recovered.

I using the current version of the Utility for Windows XP. I using a
KEYSPAN USB to Serial Adapter.

Thanks for letting an old man rant & rave!

Best 73.

Jim.........
WA4NTM
K1-4 - S/N 2580
K3 - S/N 2802

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capobs

Re: Firmware Loading!

Hi, Dick.

Maybe I need to describe my setup a bit more thoroughly.

I do not have a Serial Port of any kind on my DELL laptop computer: hence trying an Adapter.

So yes, I'm using a KEYSPAN USB-to-Serial Adapter with a "straight through" 9-pin male to 9-pin female cable to my K3.

But what I didn't tell you is that I have a powered USB Hub installed in a USB port on the back of my computer, then the USB Cable that came with the KEYSPAN Adapter connected to the KEYSPAN USB-Serial Adapter, then my "straight through" Cable connected between the Adapter and the rear of my K3 for loading.

I am using Com Port 4.

Now that I've given my best description of my setup, it's fairly clear I have many connection points where the possible "gremlim" lies unless you can define some other area problem!

If all of the above isn't REALLY so terribly bad, should I be looking for the special Cable you were talking about earlier? Do you think that would help?

I did go to the KEYSPAN link you referenced and downloaded the driver again.  It was the same version but maybe it repaied my version.

Thanks & Best 73.

Jim.........
WA4NTM

--- On Wed, 9/2/09, Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]> wrote:

From: Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!
To: [hidden email], "'ELECRAFT Reflector'" <[hidden email]>
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 4:08 PM

I think you’re using a USB to Serial Adapter in addition to a “straight thru” 9-pin male to female connector.

The Keyspan 19HS is a USB to Serial Adapter. COM4 is the port you’re loading the K3 through, right?

If your personal computer has any free serial RS-232 ports (the 9-pin “D” male type), that’s preferable to any USB to Serial adapter.

I believe 3.7 is the current driver version for the Keyspan USA-19H.   But it won’t hurt to try updating the Keyspan drivers from the http://www.tripplite.com/en/products/model.cfm?txtModelID=3914 site (use the “Help & downloads tab from that site).

Dick, K6KR

From: James Harris [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 1:45 PM
To: Dick Dievendorff; ELECRAFT Reflector
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

Good afternoon, Dick.

Thanks for you quick reply.

a.) - I have a "straight through" 9 male pin to 9 pin female cable.

b.) - As far as I know, the cable isn't a special USB-to-Serial Cable. I have checked it with a meter and there is straight-through continuity on all pins: no groundings or the like. If I need a special cable, please direct me to a supplier or provide a description whereby I can purchase one. I need one about 5 ft. long.

c.) - The KEYSPAN Device Driver is listed as "USA-19H1 - Version String USA-90 2007oct24 13:45" and  "v-3.7.0.2" using Com Port 4. [Com Port 3 shows up in the Utility along with the K3's Com Port 4.]

I hope I have answered all of your question to help you help me. If not, I'll try again.

Thanks & Best 73.

Jim................

WA4NTM

--- On Wed, 9/2/09, Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]> wrote:

From: Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!
To: [hidden email]
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 3:14 PM

Tell me about your cabling between the PC and your K3, and if it's a
USB-to-Serial cable, what Device Driver version are you using?

Use the Windows Device Manager to find the device driver version. (Start,
right click "my computer", select "manage", and then "Device Manager". Look
for the COM port you're using with your K3.

This isn't operator error. The K3 Utility shouldn't crash, nor should it
stop in mid-load.

73 de Dick, K6KR

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
[mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of James Harris
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 1:10 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

Good afternoon, Folks.

First off, I have NO COMPLAINTS WHATSOEVER on my K3/100 - Kit [S/N 2802]!

I have five Filters installed [the bandwidths of which I won't mention
fearing massive retribution - but personally they suite me just fine as I'm
a CW operator only!], the Ant Tuner and the 1ppm Ref. Oscillator. A super
FB/fantastic rig!

I do have a question and I feel sure the answer will be "Operator Error"!

Here goes:

EVERY time I load a new version of Firmware to my rig or save the "current
configuration" using the current version of the Utility, I have to do them
both TWICE!

On the Firmware updating, all goes well with the FPF Load [every time] but
when it comes to the DSP Load, it gets to about the 30% mark and locks up
[every time]. I have to back out of the loading and start again and then it
loads OK [every time] .

This malfunction freezes up the Utility stating afterwards that the Serial
Port is closed and can't be opened because it is being used by another
program. [ ? ] It takes several moments for the Utility to recover.

Similar happenings when I "Save the Current Configuration". It crashes my
computer. I have to re-boot and then it saves OK. That is if the Serial
Port has recovered.

I using the current version of the Utility for Windows XP. I using a
KEYSPAN USB to Serial Adapter.

Thanks for letting an old man rant & rave!

Best 73.

Jim.........
WA4NTM
K1-4 - S/N 2580
K3 - S/N 2802

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Richard Ferch

Re: Firmware Loading!

In reply to this post by capobs

Jim,

Given that you are using a laptop with no serial ports, a USB-to-serial
adapter is probably your simplest option. There are such things as PCMCIA
serial cards, but there is no guarantee that one of them wouldn't give you
just as many problems. You might have better luck with a different
USB-to-serial adapter, but that seems to be pretty much random.

For example, I have two USB-to-serial adapters, both using the same
chipset (although possibly different revision dates, as they were bought
at different times), and both running off the same driver. One of them
causes software crashes with some of the things I try to do with it, but
the other one works fine on the same tasks. Likewise, some people have no
problems with the KUSB adapter from Elecraft, but others report problems
similar to yours.

One thing you might try is taking the powered USB hub out of the picture.
During those relatively infrequent times when you are downloading firmware
to the K3, try plugging your Keyspan adapter directly into the laptop's
USB port without going through the hub, to see if that makes a difference.
It might even make a difference which USB jack you use on the laptop. This
may seem like black magic, but changing USB jacks can sometimes make a
difference with USB ports.

A warning if you try this: If you plug the adapter into a different USB
jack (with or without the hub), there is a good chance that Windows will
assign a different COM port number to it. Fortunately there is a
Properties dialog box you can go into in Device Manager that will let you
change the number back to the one you want to use. USB may be plug 'n
play, but that doesn't always mean it's simple to use!

73,
Rich VE3KI

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Brett Howard

Re: Firmware Loading!

I've messed with quite a few of these adapters and one of the most rock
solid ones I've used are the chipsets from FTDI. You can read about their
stuff at http://www.ftdichip.com. I have no affiliation with the company
other than that I've designed a few of their parts into systems that I've
worked on. They have drivers for EVERYTHING (I even got them working with
Windows CE) and use them often at home on Linux and except for in the case
of CE I didn't even have to download a driver they just worked. They also
have some really slick little development modules that you can buy which can
make adding a USB interface really easy... I've wire wrapped them into
several little project boxes around the shack.

~BTH

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
[mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Richard Ferch
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 4:49 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

Jim,

Given that you are using a laptop with no serial ports, a USB-to-serial
adapter is probably your simplest option. There are such things as PCMCIA
serial cards, but there is no guarantee that one of them wouldn't give you
just as many problems. You might have better luck with a different
USB-to-serial adapter, but that seems to be pretty much random.

For example, I have two USB-to-serial adapters, both using the same
chipset (although possibly different revision dates, as they were bought
at different times), and both running off the same driver. One of them
causes software crashes with some of the things I try to do with it, but
the other one works fine on the same tasks. Likewise, some people have no
problems with the KUSB adapter from Elecraft, but others report problems
similar to yours.

One thing you might try is taking the powered USB hub out of the picture.
During those relatively infrequent times when you are downloading firmware
to the K3, try plugging your Keyspan adapter directly into the laptop's
USB port without going through the hub, to see if that makes a difference.
It might even make a difference which USB jack you use on the laptop. This
may seem like black magic, but changing USB jacks can sometimes make a
difference with USB ports.

A warning if you try this: If you plug the adapter into a different USB
jack (with or without the hub), there is a good chance that Windows will
assign a different COM port number to it. Fortunately there is a
Properties dialog box you can go into in Device Manager that will let you
change the number back to the one you want to use. USB may be plug 'n
play, but that doesn't always mean it's simple to use!

73,
Rich VE3KI

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n7ws

Re: Firmware Loading!

In reply to this post by capobs

Jim,

I'm using a Quatech http://www.quatech.com/catalog/rs232_usb.php USB-Serial adapter to load firmware on my K3 and to connect to my logging program otherwise.

I have no issues with it. I spent several hours yesterday loading and reloading firmware trying to sort out the RF gain control issues on my radio and had only one hiccup where I had to start over.

I do have an issue with the Elecraft Utility though. After running and closing it, the serial port is not released. Windows Task Manager doesn't show the utility as a running program but I've had to resort to either rebooting or pulling the USB cable from the computer and reinserting it before my logging program can control the radio.

If I do the latter then when shutting down Windows (XP-Pro SR3), I get a message that there is a program (the utility) that is not responding, do I want to close it. Last night even that didn't work and I had to resort to the power switch to close shut down.

Wes N7WS

--- On Wed, 9/2/09, James Harris <[hidden email]> Hi, Dick.

Maybe I need to describe my setup a bit more thoroughly.

I do not have a Serial Port of any kind on my DELL laptop computer: hence trying an Adapter.

So yes, I'm using a KEYSPAN USB-to-Serial Adapter with a "straight through" 9-pin male to 9-pin female cable to my K3.

But what I didn't tell you is that I have a powered USB Hub installed in a USB port on the back of my computer, then the USB Cable that came with the KEYSPAN Adapter connected to the KEYSPAN USB-Serial Adapter, then my "straight through" Cable connected between the Adapter and the rear of my K3 for loading.

I am using Com Port 4.

Now that I've given my best description of my setup, it's fairly clear I have many connection points where the possible "gremlim" lies unless you can define some other area problem!

If all of the above isn't REALLY so terribly bad, should I be looking for the special Cable you were talking about earlier? Do you think that would help?

I did go to the KEYSPAN link you referenced and downloaded the driver again. It was the same version but maybe it repaied my version.

Thanks & Best 73.

Jim.........
WA4NTM

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KK7P

Re: Firmware Loading!

> I do have an issue with the Elecraft Utility though. After running and closing it, the serial port is not released.
>

Interesting.

In my operating position, I use a RigExpert Plus between the K3 and the
computer. This device includes a USB <-> RS232 converter. After
running Utility, I have no problem running HRD over the same port.

In my development position, I use a standard serial port (no USB
adapter). Similarly, I have never had a problem with the serial port
being blocked after closing Utility. Previously, I have used a Prolific
chipset-based USB <-> RS232 dongle (similar to the KUSB sold by
Elecraft), and I've never had a problem with another application using
that serial port after Utility ha sused it and I closed Utility.

Running XP Pro SP3 on the computers involved, and SP2 prior to that with
the same results.

YMMV (and apparently does!),

Lyle KK7P

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Dick Dievendorff

Re: Firmware Loading!

In reply to this post by n7ws

I'll look into this. My intent us to Close the serial port in all exit
paths. But Close calls driver-specific routines. Is this a general
problem with all USB to Serial adapter users? Are your device drivers
up to date? How do you generally close the K3 utility? I'll put a
debug breakpoint on Serial port close and verify that it is invoked in
the path you use.

Dick, K6KR

Sent from my iPhone

On Sep 4, 2009, at 6:49 AM, Wes Stewart <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Jim,
>
> I'm using a Quatech http://www.quatech.com/catalog/rs232_usb.php USB-
> Serial adapter to load firmware on my K3 and to connect to my
> logging program otherwise.
>
> I have no issues with it. I spent several hours yesterday loading
> and reloading firmware trying to sort out the RF gain control issues
> on my radio and had only one hiccup where I had to start over.
>
> I do have an issue with the Elecraft Utility though. After running
> and closing it, the serial port is not released. Windows Task
> Manager doesn't show the utility as a running program but I've had
> to resort to either rebooting or pulling the USB cable from the
> computer and reinserting it before my logging program can control
> the radio.
>
> If I do the latter then when shutting down Windows (XP-Pro SR3), I
> get a message that there is a program (the utility) that is not
> responding, do I want to close it. Last night even that didn't work
> and I had to resort to the power switch to close shut down.
>
> Wes N7WS
>
> --- On Wed, 9/2/09, James Harris <[hidden email]> Hi, Dick.
>
> Maybe I need to describe my setup a bit more thoroughly.
>
> I do not have a Serial Port of any kind on my DELL laptop computer:
> hence trying an Adapter.
>
> So yes, I'm using a KEYSPAN USB-to-Serial Adapter with a "straight
> through" 9-pin male to 9-pin female cable to my K3.
>
> But what I didn't tell you is that I have a powered USB Hub
> installed in a USB port on the back of my computer, then the USB
> Cable that came with the KEYSPAN Adapter connected to the KEYSPAN
> USB-Serial Adapter, then my "straight through" Cable connected
> between the Adapter and the rear of my K3 for loading.
>
> I am using Com Port 4.
>
> Now that I've given my best description of my setup, it's fairly
> clear I have many connection points where the possible "gremlim"
> lies unless you can define some other area problem!
>
> If all of the above isn't REALLY so terribly bad, should I be
> looking for the special Cable you were talking about earlier? Do
> you think that would help?
>
> I did go to the KEYSPAN link you referenced and downloaded the
> driver again. It was the same version but maybe it repaied my
> version.
>
> Thanks & Best 73.
>
> Jim.........
> WA4NTM
>
>
>
>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

______________________________________________________________
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Post: mailto:[hidden email]

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Doug Person

Re: Firmware Loading!

Dick,
This is a common problem with applications accessing serial ports. It is
very driver dependent.
Doug -- K0DXV
(Senior Programmer -IBM)

Dick Dievendorff wrote:

> I'll look into this. My intent us to Close the serial port in all exit
> paths. But Close calls driver-specific routines. Is this a general
> problem with all USB to Serial adapter users? Are your device drivers
> up to date? How do you generally close the K3 utility? I'll put a
> debug breakpoint on Serial port close and verify that it is invoked in
> the path you use.
>
> Dick, K6KR
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Sep 4, 2009, at 6:49 AM, Wes Stewart <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>
>> Jim,
>>
>> I'm using a Quatech http://www.quatech.com/catalog/rs232_usb.php USB-
>> Serial adapter to load firmware on my K3 and to connect to my
>> logging program otherwise.
>>
>> I have no issues with it. I spent several hours yesterday loading
>> and reloading firmware trying to sort out the RF gain control issues
>> on my radio and had only one hiccup where I had to start over.
>>
>> I do have an issue with the Elecraft Utility though. After running
>> and closing it, the serial port is not released. Windows Task
>> Manager doesn't show the utility as a running program but I've had
>> to resort to either rebooting or pulling the USB cable from the
>> computer and reinserting it before my logging program can control
>> the radio.
>>
>> If I do the latter then when shutting down Windows (XP-Pro SR3), I
>> get a message that there is a program (the utility) that is not
>> responding, do I want to close it. Last night even that didn't work
>> and I had to resort to the power switch to close shut down.
>>
>> Wes N7WS
>>
>> --- On Wed, 9/2/09, James Harris <[hidden email]> Hi, Dick.
>>
>> Maybe I need to describe my setup a bit more thoroughly.
>>
>> I do not have a Serial Port of any kind on my DELL laptop computer:
>> hence trying an Adapter.
>>
>> So yes, I'm using a KEYSPAN USB-to-Serial Adapter with a "straight
>> through" 9-pin male to 9-pin female cable to my K3.
>>
>> But what I didn't tell you is that I have a powered USB Hub
>> installed in a USB port on the back of my computer, then the USB
>> Cable that came with the KEYSPAN Adapter connected to the KEYSPAN
>> USB-Serial Adapter, then my "straight through" Cable connected
>> between the Adapter and the rear of my K3 for loading.
>>
>> I am using Com Port 4.
>>
>> Now that I've given my best description of my setup, it's fairly
>> clear I have many connection points where the possible "gremlim"
>> lies unless you can define some other area problem!
>>
>> If all of the above isn't REALLY so terribly bad, should I be
>> looking for the special Cable you were talking about earlier? Do
>> you think that would help?
>>
>> I did go to the KEYSPAN link you referenced and downloaded the
>> driver again. It was the same version but maybe it repaied my
>> version.
>>
>> Thanks & Best 73.
>>
>> Jim.........
>> WA4NTM
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
>

Guy, K2AV

Re: Firmware Loading!

In reply to this post by Dick Dievendorff

It's always been possible to have a problem of this sort, even using
the Elecraft supplied usb/serial adapter, and with the latest drivers,
using any of my various PC's as a host.

If I try to close the utility AFTER I have turned off the K3 power, I
can count on some kind of funky business about half the time, though
not always.

When I load firmware, I do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ELSE on the PC while
it's loading, NO mouse movement, NO nothing, no other programs
running, zero, zilch, emphatically nothing.

When the load is complete, I turn off the utility FIRST. Then I do the
recommended K3 power off before using the rig with new load.

Never had a problem with this procedure. YMMV.

73, Guy

On Fri, Sep 4, 2009 at 10:09 AM, Dick Dievendorff<[hidden email]> wrote:

> I'll look into this. My intent us to Close the serial port in all exit
> paths. But Close calls driver-specific routines. Is this a general
> problem with all USB to Serial adapter users? Are your device drivers
> up to date? How do you generally close the K3 utility? I'll put a
> debug breakpoint on Serial port close and verify that it is invoked in
> the path you use.
>
> Dick, K6KR
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Sep 4, 2009, at 6:49 AM, Wes Stewart <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Jim,
>>
>> I'm using a Quatech http://www.quatech.com/catalog/rs232_usb.php USB-
>> Serial adapter to load firmware on my K3 and to connect to my
>> logging program otherwise.
>>
>> I have no issues with it. I spent several hours yesterday loading
>> and reloading firmware trying to sort out the RF gain control issues
>> on my radio and had only one hiccup where I had to start over.
>>
>> I do have an issue with the Elecraft Utility though. After running
>> and closing it, the serial port is not released. Windows Task
>> Manager doesn't show the utility as a running program but I've had
>> to resort to either rebooting or pulling the USB cable from the
>> computer and reinserting it before my logging program can control
>> the radio.
>>
>> If I do the latter then when shutting down Windows (XP-Pro SR3), I
>> get a message that there is a program (the utility) that is not
>> responding, do I want to close it. Last night even that didn't work
>> and I had to resort to the power switch to close shut down.
>>
>> Wes N7WS
>>
>> --- On Wed, 9/2/09, James Harris <[hidden email]> Hi, Dick.
>>
>> Maybe I need to describe my setup a bit more thoroughly.
>>
>> I do not have a Serial Port of any kind on my DELL laptop computer:
>> hence trying an Adapter.
>>
>> So yes, I'm using a KEYSPAN USB-to-Serial Adapter with a "straight
>> through" 9-pin male to 9-pin female cable to my K3.
>>
>> But what I didn't tell you is that I have a powered USB Hub
>> installed in a USB port on the back of my computer, then the USB
>> Cable that came with the KEYSPAN Adapter connected to the KEYSPAN
>> USB-Serial Adapter, then my "straight through" Cable connected
>> between the Adapter and the rear of my K3 for loading.
>>
>> I am using Com Port 4.
>>
>> Now that I've given my best description of my setup, it's fairly
>> clear I have many connection points where the possible "gremlim"
>> lies unless you can define some other area problem!
>>
>> If all of the above isn't REALLY so terribly bad, should I be
>> looking for the special Cable you were talking about earlier? Do
>> you think that would help?
>>
>> I did go to the KEYSPAN link you referenced and downloaded the
>> driver again. It was the same version but maybe it repaied my
>> version.
>>
>> Thanks & Best 73.
>>
>> Jim.........
>> WA4NTM
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>

sfbonk

Re: Firmware Loading!

Not only the PC. When running higher power (not sure the limit), I get intermittent telnet drops on DSL when I'm on 80 and 160 (saw this reported by others on various reflectors). When I'm downloading SW, even though I'm in the shack, I don't key?any transmitters. Have a bunch of ferrites on the lines, but just put in an order for fiber which I hope solves that problem.

73 de W3OU, Steve

-----Original Message-----
From: Guy Olinger K2AV <[hidden email]>
To: Dick Dievendorff <[hidden email]>
Cc: ELECRAFT Reflector <[hidden email]>
Sent: Fri, Sep 4, 2009 11:29 am
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

It's always been possible to have a problem of this sort, even using
the Elecraft supplied usb/serial adapter, and with the latest drivers,
using any of my various PC's as a host.

If I try to close the utility AFTER I have turned off the K3 power, I
can count on some kind of funky business about half the time, though
not always.

When I load firmware, I do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ELSE on the PC while
it's loading, NO mouse movement, NO nothing, no other programs
running, zero, zilch, emphatically nothing.

When the load is complete, I turn off the utility FIRST. Then I do the
recommended K3 power off before using the rig with new load.

Never had a problem with this procedure. YMMV.

73, Guy

On Fri, Sep 4, 2009 at 10:09 AM, Dick Dievendorff<[hidden email]> wrote:

n shutting down Windows (XP-Pro SR3), I

>> get a message that there is a program (the utility) that is not
>> responding, do I want to close it. ?Last night even that didn't work
>> and I had to resort to the power switch to close shut down.
>>
>> Wes ?N7WS
>>
>> --- On Wed, 9/2/09, James Harris <[hidden email]> Hi, Dick.
>>
>> Maybe I need to describe my setup a bit more thoroughly.
>>
>> I do not have a Serial Port of any kind on my DELL laptop computer:
>> hence trying an Adapter.
>>
>> So yes, I'm using a KEYSPAN USB-to-Serial Adapter with a "straight
>> through" 9-pin male to 9-pin female cable to my K3.
>>
>> But what I didn't tell you is that I have a powered USB Hub
>> installed in a USB port on the back of my computer, then the USB
>> Cable that came with the KEYSPAN Adapter connected to the KEYSPAN
>> USB-Serial Adapter, then my "straight through" Cable connected
>> between the Adapter and the rear of my K3 for loading.
>>
>> I am using Com Port 4.
>>
>> Now that I've given my best description of my setup, it's fairly
>> clear I have many connection points where the possible "gremlim"
>> lies unless you can define some other area problem!
>>
>> If all of the above isn't REALLY so terribly bad, should I be
>> looking for the special Cable you were talking about earlier? ?Do
>> you think that would help?
>>
>> I did go to the KEYSPAN link you referenced and downloaded the
>> driver again. ?It was the same version but maybe it repaied my
>> version.
>>
>> Thanks & Best 73.
>>
>> Jim.........
>> WA4NTM
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecr

aft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
______________________________________________________________
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Post: mailto:[hidden email]

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______________________________________________________________
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Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

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