[Elecraft] Firmware Loading!

[Wes Stewart]

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 <capobs1 at bellsouth.net> 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