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