JP1 Remotes

3FG · Expert Joined: 19 May 2009 Posts: 3367

I said earlier that the short rmaster.err file might imply a software problem, but this latest err file tips things back to hardware. I assume that you have checked in Device Manager that the cable is being registered as a serial COM port. Next I would try following these instructions to see if you can put the remote into communications mode,

If you can't then it's probably time to replace the cable. If you can establish communication, and can get any response in RealTerm, then we may have something more to go on.

GregD · Joined: 15 Feb 2010 Posts: 48 Location: CT

3FG, try this file...
http://www.hifi-remote.com/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=12502

Windows Device Manager shows Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port (COM8). It says the device is working properly and I've tried every interface possibility using two different JP1.3 capable remotes with no success.

Thanks, I really appreciate your help.

3FG · Expert Joined: 19 May 2009 Posts: 3367

Well, it looks like you tried a lot of things.... But still the rmaster.err file just says that there was no response. So it is probably hardware.
It can be the Prolific chip or driver. Some of these have trouble setting break, which is why I suggested you follow Tommy Tyler's instructions to see if the remote is actually put into communications mode. You may have to try a different driver.

If you do replace the cable, I suggest you get one based on the FTDI chipset. The Prolific chipset is problematic generally, and doesn't work with JP1.4/JP2/JP3 remotes. The FTDI chipset works with everything, and the drivers are rock solid.

www.txsat.net offers an interface that has a single plug. This one from China is harder to hook up to the remote (although you can change to a better connector) but is pretty inexpensive. It is known to work.

GregD · Joined: 15 Feb 2010 Posts: 48 Location: CT

Sorry, I couldn't post this last night as the server seemed to be down.

Running RealTerm, on the Pins screen when I type in "I" or "V" they appear on the program's display screen but there is no response from the remote such as the "S<J%" or ""30333033" given in the example. This is true for both remotes I tested. As for the status lights, the CTS (8), DCD (1) and DSR(6) are green, while the rest are clear.

Does this shed any more light on the issue?