Interface faqs:-

Interface FAQs

A few customers occasionally experience minor problems when setting up their interfaces/ software;  particularly those that are new to Digital Mode operating.  Listed below is a selection of frequently asked questions and how to deal with them.

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My interface will not transmit when I TX data from the operating software.

This usually occurs when the software COMM PORT has not been correctly setup or the computer does not have a comm port.

If you are unsure how to configure your operating software, or to check for a COMM PORT, see the section below, and also the section named  “CONFIGURING SOFTWARE”

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How do I find out which comm port my computer has assigned?

In Windows XP, go into my computer/control panel/system; you should be presented with the system properties window, click on the hardware tab, click on the device manager tab; you should now be able to view the computer’s hardware information.  In the list of hardware you should find PORTS (COM & LPT), double click on this item, you should now see the driver name and the comm port number.

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My computer/laptop does not have a comm port

Modern computers no longer have a comm port installed, USB 2 high speed ports are now standard.   However, you can purchase, via EBAY or your local IT specialist and Maplins, a USB to Serial adaptor lead for around £5.00.  Please ensure that you install the driver first, connect the lead into a spare USB port and windows should detect it.

Note:-

Ensure your radio is switch OFF, or is NOT connected to the Interface.

A simple check to see if the comm port is active is to connect the interface to the computer, reboot or switch the computer on.  Whilst windows is booting watch the RED LED on the interface - as windows boots just past the welcome screen the computer should flash the comm port.  If the comm port is active, the RED LED on the interface should flash 3 to 4 times, should the radio be switched on then the radio should TX at the same time. If the interface does not flash then the comm port has not been set up correctly, i.e. the USB driver for the adaptor lead has not been installed. If the computer already has a dedicated comm port the above should occur as a matter of course.

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I have no received signal

Check that the 2 x 3.5mm jack plugs are inserted into the correct jack sockets on the computer;  the jack with the RED band should be inserted into the Line input or Mike jack socket.

Ensure that the audio input volume is adjusted correctly in the sound card audio settings, i.e the MASTER RECORDING  control in Windows.

Also ensure that the relevant input is selected, i.e. if you are using LINE IN, then a green check mark should be made for that input selection.

(DO NOT get confused with the MASTER VOLUME where a check mark against an item will MUTE a particular selection)

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I have no audio output

Check as above, the 3.5mm lead without any markings should be inserted into the computer speaker jack;  ensure in Windows MASTER VOLUME control that the audio output is no more than mid way.

If any of the above checks fail, then please email me with your problem and I will get back to you. The instruction sheet that was supplied with your interface will have my contact telephone number; please feel free to call me between 10:00hrs and 21:00hrs. I am here most days and weekends, I will also try to assist you on some bank holidays when I am available.

Regards Alan M0AQC

Email alanm0aqc@btinternet.com