Z-Duino assembly

So, let's begin. The assembly kit I won includes three bags.

One package contains connectors, a socket for the controller and the controller itself - ATmega328P, with a bootloader and the “Blink” sketch stitched into it. Another bag is filled with “loose”, among which there is a “bomb” button with a red pusher - for reset. In the third bag: a high-quality board and one of the LEDs. There are two of them in the set: green - for power supply, and yellow - for pin13. They are identical in appearance, and in order not to confuse them, the yellow one is packed together with the board, but nothing prevents us from soldering them the other way around.

The assembly took place in two stages. First I solder all SMD components

Then all output

I wanted the power selection jumper to be installed perpendicular to the board, so I bent the pins with pliers, soldered them and bit off the excess.

After assembling the board, I apply power: the green LED lights up, the yellow LED blinks. Okay, now we need an adapter for filling sketches. If there is a hardware COM port on the motherboard, then you can take a level converter on a MAX232 designed for this purpose or assemble it using transistors (as in Arduino Severino).

The transistor converter repeats the circuit from Arduino Severino, and for the adapter on the chip I chose MAX232CPE: instead of 10uF electrolytes, 100n ceramic ones are installed. Before mounting the microcircuit, you need to break off pins 7 and 10, or bend them to the side.

To use an adapter on transistors or on MAX, you need to apply 5V to the Z-duino board in any convenient way. I took it directly from USB and plugged it into the ICSP connector. The power selection jumper must be set to position 5V.

Attention! If you burn something or cause any harm while implementing the ideas presented in this article, then you, and not the author of these ideas (that is, me), bear responsibility for the negative consequences. For example, in the example above, 5V from USB is supplied directly to the controller, bypassing the fuse and protective diode. Be aware of what you are doing, observe the polarity of the connection and do not exceed the maximum current that most USB connectors on the computer can produce, namely 500mA.

If there is no COM port, you can use a USB-COM adapter. I already wrote about an adapter for mega8 soldered on a homemade Arduino, there will be a photo and diagram of the adapter on a controller in DIP and in a TQFP package.

All signals provided by the converter are connected to the connector. In the diagram and drawings of the boards there are fuses of size 1206 in the 5V circuit from USB. I don’t have these, I don’t have SMD fuses at all, so I installed jumpers.

On two boards, RX and TX were swapped, I had to cut the tracks, solder jumpers, and the errors in the board drawings were corrected.

The implementation of a version of this adapter for ATtiny2313 is available on getchip.net.

DIY USB - COM (RS232) adapter - an article in which I will tell you how to make a simple adapter in just one evening. This adapter, by the way, is compatible with the CPU 166 P processor module. - a book that can be useful in amateur radio practice.

Here's what you'll need for the adapter:

Position designation	Name	Analog/replacement
	Ceramic capacitor - 0.1 μFx50V	SMD size 0805
	Ceramic capacitor - 33pFx50V	SMD size 0805
	Chip MAX232	ADM232 SOIC16 package
	Indicator LEDs with a diameter of 3mm.
	Ready module - USB-COM adapter (TTL levels) on the FT232 chip
	Resistor 0.125W 270 Ohm	SMD size 0805
	Resistor 0.125W 510 Ohm
	Resistor 0.125W 100 Ohm
	DB9 male plug
	Paid plug 3 contacts

And also clips for the LEDs, a small plastic case, some wires and silicone glue.

Picture 1.

If TTL levels are sufficient for your purposes, then a ready-made board on the FT232 chip will be sufficient (the red board in Figure 1), and if you need to get levels close to the protocol levels, read on!

The first thing I did was attach the LEDs to the front side of the case using clips.

Figure 2

Figure 3.

Figure 4.

Figure 5.

The board has ready-made pads with all signals (according to the RS232 protocol, only TTL levels), as well as power supply and contacts for the RX and TX LEDs. Using this board, you can make a complete USB-COM adapter. I don’t need a full adapter, I limited myself to the RX and TX signals, and also used the signals to connect the LEDs. In order to convert TTL levels to those close to those of the RS232 protocol, you need to use a MAX232 buffer chip, but more on that a little later.

Figure 6

The board mentioned above was glued to the base of the case using silicone glue.

Figure 7

When the glue had dried, I soldered the LEDs to limit the current using 270 Ohm resistors.

Figure 8

On one of the old boards I came across a ready-made fragment with all the necessary wiring for the MAX232. All that remained was to cut it out and solder the chip.

Figure 9

Figure 10

I didn’t find the MAX232 microcircuit at hand; instead, I soldered in an analogue - ADM232.

Figure 11

I pasted insulating material on both sides. I used silicone glue.

Figure 12

Figure 13

The glue has dried. The next thing was to glue the resulting “sandwich” into the body.

Figure 14

I soldered the boards together according to the diagram, and also soldered and secured the DB9 connector.

Figure 15

I checked everything. Fully assembled USB-COM(RS232) adapter.

Problems when flashing receivers. Lack of COM port. Using a laptop

Most “old” computers and laptops purchased more than 5 years ago always had several COM ports (RS-232). At least there was always at least one “RS-232” connector.

Rice. 1. Connector on the computer case

Various external equipment was connected to it: mice, printers, modems, specialized equipment. Therefore, there were no problems connecting the receiver to the computer for firmware. It was enough to just connect, run the program to update the receiver’s software and calmly do everything necessary.

In modern computers, the RS-232 connector is often missing. This is where problems arise, often very unpleasant ones. In most receivers there are no other methods of “firmware” other than using “RS-232”. And not all receivers have a “USB” input for connecting an external flash drive.

And sometimes there is another problem: the laptop has a “COM” port, but it works with receivers of one model, but not with others. This is due to the laptop manufacturer's violation of the RS-232 data transfer standard. They do this in order to save battery power. If the receiver manufacturer was technically scrupulous and precise, then a special chip for the “COM” port will be installed in the receiver. Thanks to this chip, the receiver will work with both a laptop and a computer. But installing a microcircuit increases the overall cost of the product, and lately manufacturers have been saving even on these little things! This is why the problem of incompatibility between laptops and most receivers arises.

When using a computer, the problem of the lack of necessary “RS-232” ports is solved simply: you need to purchase an additional module with “COM” ports. This board installed in a computer is called “PIC-COM” or simply “COM ports board”.

Rice. 2. PCI card for a computer with two “COM” ports

If you are not good with computers and have never dealt with installing additional equipment into a computer before, then contact a specialist! Otherwise, you can “kill” expensive equipment.

After installing the board into the computer, the Windows operating system assigns a number to the newly installed ports, for example, “1”, “2”... “25”.

When using a laptop, you cannot install a regular computer board: the standard and size are wrong. There are two ways to solve this problem: expensive, but high-quality, and cheap, but not fully compatible. In the first case, you need to purchase a special board with ports for the laptop. The price of these boards is high, and I was not able to purchase this board, even on order.

Rice. 3. Laptop board with “COM” port

And there’s a catch: “old” and “new” laptops have two different standards for additional equipment! Before purchasing, check the instructions for your laptop!

If you could not purchase a board for a computer or laptop, then there is only one option left: “USB”. Almost all modern computer models have a “USB” output, at least two, or even all eight! There are various USB to COM converters available for sale.

Rice. 4. “USB - COM” converter

Rice. 5. “USB - COM” converter circuit

How to solder a USB-COM adapter yourself. Option 1

How to make your own USB-COM adapter, which can be used to connect converters and other devices to computers that do not have a “hard” COM port.
Attention!
The adapter described below provides matching only RX and TX signals.
All other modem signals are not used.
For most devices running without hardware flow control, this is more than enough.
The adapter works 100% with Pilot VAF/MAF converters

Go!

For assembly you will need the following parts:

1. PL2303HX (USB-USART bridge from Prolific) - 1 pc.
2. MAX232CSE (UART-RS232) - 1 pc.
3. Quartz 12.00 MHz - 1 piece.
4. Capacitors 10 nF (smd1206) - 2 pcs.
5. Capacitors 1 uF (smd1206) - 6 pcs.
6. Resistors 27 Ohm (smd1206) - 2 pcs.
7. Resistors 1.5KOhm (smd1206) - 1 pc.
8. Mini-USB connector - 1 pc.
9. DB-9 male connector – 1 pc.
10. Foil PCB for board 48*22mm – 1 piece

Adapter diagram

Printed circuit board

Scheme files and seals in the format Eagle PCB Editor can be downloaded from this link

Assembly and configuration
Here, in fact, everything is elementary - we make a board, drill 4 holes and solder all the parts.
As a result, you should end up with an adapter like this:

To prevent the board from oxidizing, you can paint it with polyurethane varnish or any quick-drying car varnish that you have on hand.
Next, we connect this device to the USB port of the computer.
Windows will detect the new device and ask for drivers

We go to the prolific website and download the latest version of the firewood

At the time of writing, the latest driver was this one.

After feeding the Windows driver, a new Prolific COM port should appear in the system:

Now you need to check the functionality of the adapter

To do this, on the adapter in the COM port connector, use a screwdriver or a wire to connect contacts 2 and 3 (there are usually numbers stamped on the connector itself with the contact numbers - take a closer look) Alternatively, you can solder a temporary jumper:

Next, launch the “Hyperterminal” program (Start->Programs->Accessories->Communication->Hyperterminal)
There is no hyperterminal on Vista and Seven! Therefore, you will have to go to Google/Yandex to download hyperterminal or any equivalent.

Select our new com port in the connection settings:

Now we start the connection, select the English layout and try to print something.

The symbols of the keys you press should appear on the screen:

If the letters do not appear, check the installation

That's all!
Now all that remains is to remove the jumper from contacts 2-3 and you can use the adapter for its intended purpose.

Those. The input of such a “converter” is connected to the free “USB” connector of the laptop, the driver (control program) is installed from the disk included in the kit, and a virtual COM port with an assigned serial number appears in the system settings.

How to solder a USB-COM adapter yourself. Option - 2

Picture 1.General form

The proposed unit in assembled form allows you to implement the principle: buy - connect. The device will allow users of personal computers to connect devices operating from a COM port (RS232C) to the USB port.

Approximate retail price: 540 rub.

The adapter will be useful in practical applications: for connecting various devices, as well as modems and programmers, to a personal computer.

Specifications

Supply voltage from USB port: 5 V.

Current consumption: 20 mA.

RS232C connection speed: 110-230000 bps

Interface: USB1.1, USB2.0.

Supported operating systems: Win98, Win2000, WinXP, Vista, Linux, etc.

Overall dimensions of the device: 60x30 mm.

Contents of delivery

Adapter block assembly: 1.

Instructions: 1.

Design

Structurally, the adapter is made on a double-sided printed circuit board made of foil fiberglass, protected by a transparent heat-shrinkable tube.

The adapter provides all modem signals: DSR, DTR, RTS, CTS, RI, DCD, as well as the main signals RXD and TXD.

Figure 2. Electrical circuit diagram

Figure 3. View of the printed circuit board from the parts side

Description of the block operation

The electrical circuit diagram is shown in pic 2.

The central part of the device is the CP2102 microcontroller manufactured by SILICON LABORATORIES. The MAX3243 converter manufactured by Texas Instruments is used as a level driver chip. The adapter provides all modem signals: DSR, DTR, RTS, CTS, RI, DCD, as well as the main signals RXD and TXD.

Installing the device in the OS

To install drivers for your computer, you must first download the driver that matches your operating system.

Next, install the driver on your personal computer. Connect the adapter. The operating system will detect it and “ask” for the driver; you should indicate to it the location of this driver (the place where it was unpacked).

After successful installation, the LED on the adapter should light up, indicating that the device is ready for operation!

NEW Updated driver dated January 25, 2011

1. Driver for Win Vista You can download

2. Driver for Windows 2000/XP/Server 2003/Vista (v5.0) You can download

3. Driver for Linux You can download

4. Driver for Win98SE You can download

5. Driver for OS Mac You can download

6. an144sw.zip- Using this program you can change the ID codes of the USB-COM adapter. This is necessary in order to be able to use several 8050 on one PC. Use only for experienced users! You can download

CHECKING BM8050 OPERATION WITHOUT EXTERNAL EQUIPMENT

To check the transmission and reception of all necessary modem signals according to the connection of the COM device.

Install jumpers on pins 2-3, 4-6, 7-8 of the VM8050 COM connector.

Connect the device to the USB port of your PC.

See which port the OS has allocated for the device, to do this, go to Start --- Settings --- Control Panel --- System --- Hardware --- Device Manager --- Ports (COM and LPT) --- Silicon Labs CP210x USB to UART Bridge (COM1).

Launch the standard HiperTerminal application for Windows from Start --- Programs --- Accessories --- Communications --- HiperTerminal.

Stop a running connection, if it is active, by clicking Call --- Stop at the top.

See which port is used by the program to communicate with the device, for which enter File --- Properties at the top left and opposite "Connect via" select the same port as in Device Manager (in our case COM1).

In the same window, make sure that “Hardware” flow control is selected in the program, to do this, click the “Configure” button in the center and select “Hardware” in the lower “Flow Control” window.

Exit the program settings by clicking OK and OK again.

Type the text "Text" in the HiperTerminal program, and the text "Text" is printed on the screen, which confirms that the device is working.

Remove jumpers from pins 2-3, 4-6, 7-8 COM connector VM8050.

Type the text "Text" in the HiperTerminal program, while there is no printing on the screen, which confirms that the device is working.

Setting up the driver and selecting a port for the USB-COM adapter

Here the first problems await us: firstly, the OS could assign a too large number to the virtual port, for example, “25”. And the program for flashing the receiver allows you to work with port numbers from one to four. Secondly, not all USB-COM converters can work with the firmware program and the receiver itself. The reason is that equipment manufacturers have designed their products and programs for them differently. All converters must be checked individually for your program and your receiver. It often happens that the converter works with some equipment, but not with others.

If the first problem is resolved by changing the port number in the OS settings, then the compatibility problem of the hardware, program and converter cannot be resolved.

To change the number assigned to the OS, you must change it manually. To do this, you need to enter the “Device Manager”: “Start” - “Settings” - “Control Panel” - “System”.

Rice. 15.6. "Control Panel"

In the window that appears, select the “Hardware” tab and click on the “Device Manager” button. The Device Manager window will open. In the window that appears, in the tree list, select the line “Ports (COM and LPT). In the drop-down list you will see all the ports available on your computer. Select your virtual port: “USB - COM converter”. I have a Prolific model converter.

Rice. 15.7. List of available ports

Click on this line with the RIGHT mouse button, in the window that opens, select the “Properties” building.

Rice. 15.8. Configuring the selected port

In the window that appears, select the “Port Settings” tab. In the “Speed” line, select “115200”, then click on the “Advanced” button.

Rice. 15.9. Configuring Port Settings

At the bottom of the window that opens, find the “COM Port Number” tab.

Rice. 16. Changing the COM port number

Click on the tab and select the required COM port number.

Please note that some port numbers may be occupied by existing hardware, such as a built-in modem. You cannot use one port at a time!

After completing the settings, click “OK” to save your changes and exit the settings mode completely, closing all previously open windows. After this, restart your computer to make the necessary changes. If you changed the “COM” number of the “USB - COM” port of the converter, then simply unplug it from the computer connector and reconnect it.

Ready-made solutions for USB-COM adapters from manufacturers.

Adapter cable COM 9/25M -> USB AM 1m

Price - 300 rub.
Description Cable for connecting devices with a serial interface (RS-232) to a USB port.
Cable or adapter connectors COM25M, COM9M, USB A
Compatibility
USB 1.1/2.0 compatible
Support Windows 2000, Windows XP
Other
Cable length 1 meter
Logistics
Package dimensions (measured in NICS) 21.5 x 14.5 x 4.1 cm
Gross weight (measured in NICS) 0.136 kg

TRENDnet adapter cable COM9M-->USB AM 0.6m

Price - 500 rub.
Basic
Manufacturer TRENDnet
Model TU-S9
Equipment type Adapter cable
Diameter 28/24 AWG
Performance Options
Data transfer rate 500 Kbps
Powered by USB port
Power consumption 500 mA - maximum
Compatibility
System requirements RAM 64 MB
OS support Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP
Other
RoHS Compliant
Cable length 0.6 meters
Weight 75 grams
Operating temperature 0 ~ 40°C

Package dimensions (measured in NICS) 23 x 16.8 x 4.6 cm
Gross weight (measured in NICS) 0.135 kg
External sources of information
Link to the manufacturer's website www.trendnet.com

Adapter - USB-COM adapter (RS-232)

Price - 1500 rub.
The adapter is designed for the use of devices and adapters designed to be connected via a Com (RS232) port, for example, this is very important when using modern computers that only have USB, in this case, with the help of this adapter you can use modern computers and laptops together with our devices and adapters such as BMW Scanner, Mercedes Scanner, Scanmatik, etc.

Equipment for car services, car diagnostics, diagnostic equipment, car diagnostics, car scanner, car scanner, diagnostic station, chip tuning, car diagnostic equipment Carbrain, UNISCAN, ADP-504, KKL-USB, KKL-COM, BMW scanner, Opel scanner, BMW 1.3 .6, Automan, Opel scanner, BMW scanner, engine tester, gas analyzer, engine diagnostics, instrument panel diagnostics Transponder programmer, OBD-2, OBD2, odometer correction, U-581, engine starting, crash data, crash date, crash date, speedometer, tachometer.

Although you may need to use a null modem cable (2-3, 3-2, 5-5) and an adapter like -

Add to adapter USB extension cable Here's a straight null modem cable.

• Retail price 100r.
• Type A-A
• Length: 1.5 m

But for other resources you need " flipped over" null modem cable.

• Retail price 155.00 rub.
• Connector type: DB9 F - DB9 F
• Length: 1.8 m

or this adapter:

STLab U-350 (RTL) Adapter COM 9M -> USB AM

Price - 350 rub.
Basic
Manufacturer St-Lab
Model USB DONGLE SERIAL 1 PORT
Description The adapter allows you to connect a device with an RS-232 interface (for example, a modem) to the USB port of a computer.
Equipment type Adapter cable
Cable or adapter connectors COM9M, USB A
Built-in USB connector Yes
Performance Options
Data transfer rate 115200 bps
USB 1.1 interface
Powered by USB port
Support for Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server
Package dimensions (measured in NICS) 17 x 13 x 3.2 cm
Gross weight (measured in NICS) 0.077 kg
External sources of information Link to the manufacturer's website

Problems when flashing receivers. Lack of COM port. Using a laptop

Most “old” computers and laptops purchased more than 5 years ago always had several COM ports (RS-232). At least there was always at least one “RS-232” connector.

Rice. 1. Connector on the computer case

Various external equipment was connected to it: mice, printers, modems, specialized equipment. Therefore, there were no problems connecting the receiver to the computer for firmware. It was enough to just connect, run the program to update the receiver’s software and calmly do everything necessary.

In modern computers, the RS-232 connector is often missing. This is where problems arise, often very unpleasant ones. In most receivers there are no other methods of “firmware” other than using “RS-232”. And not all receivers have a “USB” input for connecting an external flash drive.

And sometimes there is another problem: the laptop has a “COM” port, but it works with receivers of one model, but not with others. This is due to the laptop manufacturer's violation of the RS-232 data transfer standard. They do this in order to save battery power. If the receiver manufacturer was technically scrupulous and precise, then a special chip for the “COM” port will be installed in the receiver. Thanks to this chip, the receiver will work with both a laptop and a computer. But installing a microcircuit increases the overall cost of the product, and lately manufacturers have been saving even on these little things! This is why the problem of incompatibility between laptops and most receivers arises.

When using a computer, the problem of the lack of necessary “RS-232” ports is solved simply: you need to purchase an additional module with “COM” ports. This board installed in a computer is called “PIC-COM” or simply “COM ports board”.

Rice. 2. PCI card for a computer with two “COM” ports

If you are not good with computers and have never dealt with installing additional equipment into a computer before, then contact a specialist! Otherwise, you can “kill” expensive equipment.

After installing the board into the computer, the Windows operating system assigns a number to the newly installed ports, for example, “1”, “2”... “25”.

When using a laptop, you cannot install a regular computer board: the standard and size are wrong. There are two ways to solve this problem: expensive, but high-quality, and cheap, but not fully compatible. In the first case, you need to purchase a special board with ports for the laptop. The price of these boards is high, and I was not able to purchase this board, even on order.

Rice. 3. Laptop board with “COM” port

And there’s a catch: “old” and “new” laptops have two different standards for additional equipment! Before purchasing, check the instructions for your laptop!

If you could not purchase a board for a computer or laptop, then there is only one option left: “USB”. Almost all modern computer models have a “USB” output, at least two, or even all eight! There are various USB to COM converters available for sale.

Rice. 4. “USB - COM” converter

Rice. 5. “USB - COM” converter circuit

How to solder a USB-COM adapter yourself. Option 1

How to make your own USB-COM adapter, which can be used to connect converters and other devices to computers that do not have a “hard” COM port.
Attention!
The adapter described below provides matching only RX and TX signals.
All other modem signals are not used.
For most devices running without hardware flow control, this is more than enough.
The adapter works 100% with Pilot VAF/MAF converters

Go!

For assembly you will need the following parts:

1. PL2303HX (USB-USART bridge from Prolific) - 1 pc.
2. MAX232CSE (UART-RS232) - 1 pc.
3. Quartz 12.00 MHz - 1 piece.
4. Capacitors 10 nF (smd1206) - 2 pcs.
5. Capacitors 1 uF (smd1206) - 6 pcs.
6. Resistors 27 Ohm (smd1206) - 2 pcs.
7. Resistors 1.5KOhm (smd1206) - 1 pc.
8. Mini-USB connector - 1 pc.
9. DB-9 male connector – 1 pc.
10. Foil PCB for board 48*22mm – 1 piece

Adapter diagram

Printed circuit board

Scheme files and seals in the format Eagle PCB Editor can be downloaded from this link

Assembly and configuration
Here, in fact, everything is elementary - we make a board, drill 4 holes and solder all the parts.
As a result, you should end up with an adapter like this:

To prevent the board from oxidizing, you can paint it with polyurethane varnish or any quick-drying car varnish that you have on hand.
Next, we connect this device to the USB port of the computer.
Windows will detect the new device and ask for drivers

We go to the prolific website and download the latest version of the firewood

At the time of writing, the latest driver was this one.

After feeding the Windows driver, a new Prolific COM port should appear in the system:

Now you need to check the functionality of the adapter

To do this, on the adapter in the COM port connector, use a screwdriver or a wire to connect contacts 2 and 3 (there are usually numbers stamped on the connector itself with the contact numbers - take a closer look) Alternatively, you can solder a temporary jumper:

Next, launch the “Hyperterminal” program (Start->Programs->Accessories->Communication->Hyperterminal)
There is no hyperterminal on Vista and Seven! Therefore, you will have to go to Google/Yandex to download hyperterminal or any equivalent.

Select our new com port in the connection settings:

Now we start the connection, select the English layout and try to print something.

The symbols of the keys you press should appear on the screen:

If the letters do not appear, check the installation

That's all!
Now all that remains is to remove the jumper from contacts 2-3 and you can use the adapter for its intended purpose.

Those. The input of such a “converter” is connected to the free “USB” connector of the laptop, the driver (control program) is installed from the disk included in the kit, and a virtual COM port with an assigned serial number appears in the system settings.

How to solder a USB-COM adapter yourself. Option - 2

Picture 1.General form

The proposed unit in assembled form allows you to implement the principle: buy - connect. The device will allow users of personal computers to connect devices operating from a COM port (RS232C) to the USB port.

Approximate retail price: 540 rub.

The adapter will be useful in practical applications: for connecting various devices, as well as modems and programmers, to a personal computer.

Specifications

Supply voltage from USB port: 5 V.

Current consumption: 20 mA.

RS232C connection speed: 110-230000 bps

Interface: USB1.1, USB2.0.

Supported operating systems: Win98, Win2000, WinXP, Vista, Linux, etc.

Overall dimensions of the device: 60x30 mm.

Contents of delivery

Adapter block assembly: 1.

Instructions: 1.

Design

Structurally, the adapter is made on a double-sided printed circuit board made of foil fiberglass, protected by a transparent heat-shrinkable tube.

The adapter provides all modem signals: DSR, DTR, RTS, CTS, RI, DCD, as well as the main signals RXD and TXD.

Figure 2. Electrical circuit diagram

Figure 3. View of the printed circuit board from the parts side

Description of the block operation

The electrical circuit diagram is shown in pic 2.

The central part of the device is the CP2102 microcontroller manufactured by SILICON LABORATORIES. The MAX3243 converter manufactured by Texas Instruments is used as a level driver chip. The adapter provides all modem signals: DSR, DTR, RTS, CTS, RI, DCD, as well as the main signals RXD and TXD.

Installing the device in the OS

To install drivers for your computer, you must first download the driver that matches your operating system.

Next, install the driver on your personal computer. Connect the adapter. The operating system will detect it and “ask” for the driver; you should indicate to it the location of this driver (the place where it was unpacked).

After successful installation, the LED on the adapter should light up, indicating that the device is ready for operation!

NEW Updated driver dated January 25, 2011

1. Driver for Win Vista You can download

2. Driver for Windows 2000/XP/Server 2003/Vista (v5.0) You can download

3. Driver for Linux You can download

4. Driver for Win98SE You can download

5. Driver for OS Mac You can download

6. an144sw.zip- Using this program you can change the ID codes of the USB-COM adapter. This is necessary in order to be able to use several 8050 on one PC. Use only for experienced users! You can download

CHECKING BM8050 OPERATION WITHOUT EXTERNAL EQUIPMENT

To check the transmission and reception of all necessary modem signals according to the connection of the COM device.

Install jumpers on pins 2-3, 4-6, 7-8 of the VM8050 COM connector.

Connect the device to the USB port of your PC.

See which port the OS has allocated for the device, to do this, go to Start --- Settings --- Control Panel --- System --- Hardware --- Device Manager --- Ports (COM and LPT) --- Silicon Labs CP210x USB to UART Bridge (COM1).

Launch the standard HiperTerminal application for Windows from Start --- Programs --- Accessories --- Communications --- HiperTerminal.

Stop a running connection, if it is active, by clicking Call --- Stop at the top.

See which port is used by the program to communicate with the device, for which enter File --- Properties at the top left and opposite "Connect via" select the same port as in Device Manager (in our case COM1).

In the same window, make sure that “Hardware” flow control is selected in the program, to do this, click the “Configure” button in the center and select “Hardware” in the lower “Flow Control” window.

Exit the program settings by clicking OK and OK again.

Type the text "Text" in the HiperTerminal program, and the text "Text" is printed on the screen, which confirms that the device is working.

Remove jumpers from pins 2-3, 4-6, 7-8 COM connector VM8050.

Type the text "Text" in the HiperTerminal program, while there is no printing on the screen, which confirms that the device is working.

Setting up the driver and selecting a port for the USB-COM adapter

Here the first problems await us: firstly, the OS could assign a too large number to the virtual port, for example, “25”. And the program for flashing the receiver allows you to work with port numbers from one to four. Secondly, not all USB-COM converters can work with the firmware program and the receiver itself. The reason is that equipment manufacturers have designed their products and programs for them differently. All converters must be checked individually for your program and your receiver. It often happens that the converter works with some equipment, but not with others.

If the first problem is resolved by changing the port number in the OS settings, then the compatibility problem of the hardware, program and converter cannot be resolved.

To change the number assigned to the OS, you must change it manually. To do this, you need to enter the “Device Manager”: “Start” - “Settings” - “Control Panel” - “System”.

Rice. 15.6. "Control Panel"

In the window that appears, select the “Hardware” tab and click on the “Device Manager” button. The Device Manager window will open. In the window that appears, in the tree list, select the line “Ports (COM and LPT). In the drop-down list you will see all the ports available on your computer. Select your virtual port: “USB - COM converter”. I have a Prolific model converter.

Rice. 15.7. List of available ports

Click on this line with the RIGHT mouse button, in the window that opens, select the “Properties” building.

Rice. 15.8. Configuring the selected port

In the window that appears, select the “Port Settings” tab. In the “Speed” line, select “115200”, then click on the “Advanced” button.

Rice. 15.9. Configuring Port Settings

At the bottom of the window that opens, find the “COM Port Number” tab.

Rice. 16. Changing the COM port number

Click on the tab and select the required COM port number.

Please note that some port numbers may be occupied by existing hardware, such as a built-in modem. You cannot use one port at a time!

After completing the settings, click “OK” to save your changes and exit the settings mode completely, closing all previously open windows. After this, restart your computer to make the necessary changes. If you changed the “COM” number of the “USB - COM” port of the converter, then simply unplug it from the computer connector and reconnect it.

Ready-made solutions for USB-COM adapters from manufacturers.

Adapter cable COM 9/25M -> USB AM 1m

Price - 300 rub.
Description Cable for connecting devices with a serial interface (RS-232) to a USB port.
Cable or adapter connectors COM25M, COM9M, USB A
Compatibility
USB 1.1/2.0 compatible
Support Windows 2000, Windows XP
Other
Cable length 1 meter
Logistics
Package dimensions (measured in NICS) 21.5 x 14.5 x 4.1 cm
Gross weight (measured in NICS) 0.136 kg

TRENDnet adapter cable COM9M-->USB AM 0.6m

Price - 500 rub.
Basic
Manufacturer TRENDnet
Model TU-S9
Equipment type Adapter cable
Diameter 28/24 AWG
Performance Options
Data transfer rate 500 Kbps
Powered by USB port
Power consumption 500 mA - maximum
Compatibility
System requirements RAM 64 MB
OS support Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP
Other
RoHS Compliant
Cable length 0.6 meters
Weight 75 grams
Operating temperature 0 ~ 40°C

Package dimensions (measured in NICS) 23 x 16.8 x 4.6 cm
Gross weight (measured in NICS) 0.135 kg
External sources of information
Link to the manufacturer's website www.trendnet.com

Adapter - USB-COM adapter (RS-232)

Price - 1500 rub.
The adapter is designed for the use of devices and adapters designed to be connected via a Com (RS232) port, for example, this is very important when using modern computers that only have USB, in this case, with the help of this adapter you can use modern computers and laptops together with our devices and adapters such as BMW Scanner, Mercedes Scanner, Scanmatik, etc.

Equipment for car services, car diagnostics, diagnostic equipment, car diagnostics, car scanner, car scanner, diagnostic station, chip tuning, car diagnostic equipment Carbrain, UNISCAN, ADP-504, KKL-USB, KKL-COM, BMW scanner, Opel scanner, BMW 1.3 .6, Automan, Opel scanner, BMW scanner, engine tester, gas analyzer, engine diagnostics, instrument panel diagnostics Transponder programmer, OBD-2, OBD2, odometer correction, U-581, engine starting, crash data, crash date, crash date, speedometer, tachometer.

Although you may need to use a null modem cable (2-3, 3-2, 5-5) and an adapter like -

Add to adapter USB extension cable Here's a straight null modem cable.

• Retail price 100r.
• Type A-A
• Length: 1.5 m

But for other resources you need " flipped over" null modem cable.

• Retail price 155.00 rub.
• Connector type: DB9 F - DB9 F
• Length: 1.8 m

or this adapter:

STLab U-350 (RTL) Adapter COM 9M -> USB AM

Price - 350 rub.
Basic
Manufacturer St-Lab
Model USB DONGLE SERIAL 1 PORT
Description The adapter allows you to connect a device with an RS-232 interface (for example, a modem) to the USB port of a computer.
Equipment type Adapter cable
Cable or adapter connectors COM9M, USB A
Built-in USB connector Yes
Performance Options
Data transfer rate 115200 bps
USB 1.1 interface
Powered by USB port
Support for Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server
Package dimensions (measured in NICS) 17 x 13 x 3.2 cm
Gross weight (measured in NICS) 0.077 kg
External sources of information Link to the manufacturer's website

Problems when flashing receivers. Lack of COM port. Using a laptop

Many users are faced with the problem of flashing receiver firmware due to the lack of a COM port. Most older computer models were equipped with several COM ports. They had at least 1 “RS-232” connector. Thanks to this technological solution, users could connect the necessary external devices. Mice, printers, keyboards, modems, and other equipment were connected to the computer at once. Using a computer it was possible to reflash the receiver. Users have never encountered any significant connection problems. All that was required of them was to connect the cable, launch the program and click on the necessary items.

Manufacturers of modern computers seem to have simply forgotten about the RS-232 connector. The average user may not notice its absence. But if you are a satellite TV subscriber and your receiver begins to work incorrectly due to an untimely update, you are faced with an unpleasant problem. Most receiver models can only be flashed using “RS-232”. And not all satellite set-top boxes are equipped with a USB input.

Very often, users encounter other problems. One of them is the incompatibility of the available COM ports on the laptop with certain models of receivers. In most cases, this is caused by the fact that the RS-232 data transmission standard was violated during the production process of the laptop. Some manufacturers do this on purpose, since this solution allows them to reduce battery charging energy. This little detail is reflected in the cost of computer equipment, making it more accessible to the end consumer. Only precise and scrupulous manufacturers can boast of having a special chip for the COM port. And their devices are compatible with any receivers.

If you use a regular computer, then the problem can be solved by purchasing an additional module with COM ports. It comes in the form of a board and is mounted into a computer. It is very important to carry out the installation correctly, since incorrect actions can lead to damage to the equipment. After the board is installed in the computer, the Windows operating system will assign each port its own number.

If you use a laptop, then this option will not work. Here you will encounter a discrepancy between size and standard. But this problem also has a solution.

You can try to solder the USB-COM adapter yourself2 ways: expensive and proven or cheap and partially ineffective:

Method 1

We purchase a special board with ports designed for a laptop. The problem is not only the high cost of the solution, but also the fact that you will have to spend a single day searching for a suitable model. It is also worth considering that laptops may have different standards for additional devices. Therefore, you should first read the operating instructions, if you still have them. If you are hesitant to order a special board, then you can try another method.

In most cases it works. 90% of modern models are equipped with several “USB” outputs. You can buy a USB to COM converter.

For reference. USB is a serial interface that is used to transfer data. A four-wire cable is used to connect additional devices. Two wires provide data reception and transmission, two wires provide power to an additional device. The main disadvantage of USB is that the connectors become loose over time. As a result, contact is lost. When the sockets come off, users have to replace the board.

Method 2

You can solder the USB-COM adapter yourself. It’s just worth considering that the solution we described ensures matching only the RX and TX signals. Other modem signals are not used. Prepare the following set of parts:

• 1 PL2303HX (USB-USART bridge from Prolific)
• 1 MAX232CSE (UART-RS232)
• 1 Quartz 12.00 MHz
• 2 Capacitors 10 nF (smd1206)
• 6 Capacitors 1uF (smd1206)
• 2 Resistors 27 Ohm (smd1206)
• 1 Resistor 1.5KOhm (smd1206)
• 1 mini-USB connector
• 1 DB-9 male connector
• 1 Foil PCB for board 48*22mm

First you need to make a board. To do this, drill 4 holes and solder the necessary parts.

As a result, you should get a standard adapter. To avoid oxidation, the board can be coated with automotive or polyurethane varnish.

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Alternatively, you can solder a temporary jumper

After installing the drivers, we check the functionality of the adapter. To do this, try closing contacts 2 and 3 and launching the “Hyperterminal” program (enter PROGRAMS via START. Go to STANDARDS, select COMMUNICATION and HYPERTERMINAL). Next, go to any search engine and download the hyperterminal or its equivalent. In the connection settings, we specify a new com port (in our case it is hyperterminal).

Configure the port parameters (115200, 8, N(none), 1, no flow control).

For reference. HyperTerminal is a special program that is included with the Windows OS. It helps to provide access to other computer devices via a modem, serial port, or using the telnet protocol. If HyperTerminal is not present, then users can use the remote Windows shell. If you need to troubleshoot your modem, you can use Phone and Modem instead of HyperTerminal. If the program is missing, you can easily find it on the Internet and download it in a few minutes.