Q: I cannot connect to my LISST-100X. The communication cable is connected to my computer as well as my LISST-100X and the LISST-SOP is running, but I am unable to talk to the instrument.A: Check the following:
First, make sure that the instrument is not already programmed and waiting for a start event to appear (see ‘No Valid Query Response’).
Do not use a netbook for connecting to a LISST-100X. It will generally not work. If you are using a netbook, switch to a desktop, a laptop, or a notebook computer (in that preferred order) running the LISST-SOP. Note for DELL users: It is known that some DELL computers have an error in their BIOS that makes it difficult to connect to the serial port, either directly if it exists or via a USB-serial adapter if no serial port exists. If you are using a DELL computer, check on DELL’s website (www.dell.com) if a BIOS upgrade is available for your particular model. If an upgrade is available, download and install it and try connecting again before proceeding further. It is not known if this problem also exists for computers from other manufacturers.
If possible, connect directly to an actual serial port (i.e. do not use a USB-Serial adapter unless absolutely necessary) and check if this makes a difference.
Close the LISST-SOP and open up the MOTOCROSS program. This program is located in the LISST100 directory on your computer (motocross.exe). Be sure that the selected communication port is correct and that its settings are correct.
Now check the connectivity of the communication cable. You will need 2 paperclips and a voltmeter. You also need to consult the connector diagram for the 5-pin connector, both the male bulkhead connector and the cable end – see below. Make sure that the cable is connected to the serial port of the PC and proceed as follows:
• Check the voltage between pins 1 and 2 on the communication cable. You may need the paperclips to extend the measuring pins of the voltmeter to make a proper contact inside the cable. The voltage should read 12 V. If it does not, the cable may be defect.
• Short the female pins 4 and 5 on the communication cable using one or both paperclips. Type some characters into MOTOCROSS. They should appear on the screen. If they do not, the cable may be defect.
• Measure the voltage between pins 3 and 4 of the male bulkhead 5-pin connector on the LISST-100X. The voltage will be 0 most of the time, and should spike to between -5 to -9V every 2 minutes for about 2 seconds. It can be challenging to maintain contact for 2 minutes, so take care to ensure constant contact, and then watch the voltmeter continuously. LISST-100X Communications and power connector (5 pin connector) endviews.
Remove the end cap, and disconnect the main battery. Measure the battery voltage on the main battery. It should be above 6V and close to 9V for a new battery. If it is below 6V replace the battery and try again.
If there is still no connection, contact your local distributor or Sequoia directly. Be sure to include your full contact info as well as instrument serial number. It is also useful for us to know when was the last time you talked to the instrument and what the instrument has been doing since last time you talked to it (e.g. in storage, deployed in the field, shipped to another location etc.). Also let us know the results of each of the tests above.
