[Kenwood] Programming TH-D7A(G)

[ke8yn at netzero.com]

I'm new to the list, so if there's a FAQ page, please feel free to point me to it.

Although I've had a TM-D700A for several years, and have been able to program it from the laptop with no problem, I only recently added the TH-D7A(G).  [The XYL in a brief weak moment offered to let me get one as a Christmas gift; I had it home before she recovered her senses...]

I have the cable and downloaded the software from Kenwood's site.  The computer uses Windows XP Home edition.  Like most newer laptops it has only USB.  The serial to USB adapter works for the GPS, the TMD-700A, and various other devices.  It is identified as COM 2.  When I try to program the D7, it gives me a communication time out error.  I have tried hitting the selection and then turning the radio on, but to no avail.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.  Thanks & 73.

Steve