GPS problem

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

I have an Asus A620 and have pocket streets on it. I can't get the GPS
function to work- it won't detect my Garmin etrex (I got a serial/gps cable
from PC-Mobile).

I'm using NMEA out. I've tried with/without a null modem adapter- I can't
tell whether one is needed (or how the PC-Mobile adapter is wired).

Has anybody any hints?

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

"Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in message
news:%23RkwDfSkEHA.1644@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> AlanS wrote:
> > I have an Asus A620 and have pocket streets on it. I can't get the GPS
> > function to work- it won't detect my Garmin etrex (I got a serial/gps
> > cable from PC-Mobile).
> >
> > I'm using NMEA out. I've tried with/without a null modem adapter- I
> > can't tell whether one is needed (or how the PC-Mobile adapter is
> > wired).
> >
> > Has anybody any hints?
>
> If you have a serial - GPS cable and are connecting this to the A620's
> serial cable then you need the null modem adapter. The Com Port should be
> 1. There are a number of small apps available to verify comms, check out
> the downloads section of our site.
>
> --
> Darren Griffin
> PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
>
>

I realise that a null modem should be used- I've used GPS with a Psion PDA
for many years. This is connected via a GPS cable, null modem, then the
PC-Mobile one that goes from the cable to the pda.

I've tried reinstalling PocketStreets but no joy( used the software from the
Autoroute 2004 CD ). Is there a separate GPS program- I've seen something
mentioned but think that was older versions and can't see anything with
this.

I've just ran the GPS and main cable with my Psion and it works.

There are GPS menu options in PocketStreets that are greyed out and can't be
accessed - Always Show Position, and GPS Sensor (which is ticked). I can,
and do select COM1, but can't find anywhere in the PDA menus that allow
checking of port settings (speeds etc)- if it is possible.

I'll check through your site tomorrow- I'm on nightshift tonight. Are there
any other resources worth checking out?



Are there any other forums worth trying for help?

Thanks

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

Alan, if it is a cable from PC-Mobile designed to hook to an eTrex serial
cable, the PA6GS which has a male 9 pin connector that fits into the eTrex
serial cable (which has a female connector) then you do not need the null
modem. The input for Pocket Streets is fixed at 4800Bps. I believe the eTrex
uses that by default if you set NMEA as the output.
Did you note the power info at the PC-Mobile site?
To use GPS interface connecting to GPS, external power for Asus A620 must be
used as the electronic circuitry in the interface require power and the
internal power of Asus A620 is not enough to drive the electronics.

--
Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
"AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
news:ch7vg6$ao9$1@newsg4.svr.pol.co.uk...
>
> "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in message
> news:%23RkwDfSkEHA.1644@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > AlanS wrote:
> > > I have an Asus A620 and have pocket streets on it. I can't get the GPS
> > > function to work- it won't detect my Garmin etrex (I got a serial/gps
> > > cable from PC-Mobile).
> > >
> > > I'm using NMEA out. I've tried with/without a null modem adapter- I
> > > can't tell whether one is needed (or how the PC-Mobile adapter is
> > > wired).
> > >
> > > Has anybody any hints?
> >
> > If you have a serial - GPS cable and are connecting this to the A620's
> > serial cable then you need the null modem adapter. The Com Port should
be
> > 1. There are a number of small apps available to verify comms, check
out
> > the downloads section of our site.
> >
> > --
> > Darren Griffin
> > PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> > The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
> >
> >
>
> I realise that a null modem should be used- I've used GPS with a Psion PDA
> for many years. This is connected via a GPS cable, null modem, then the
> PC-Mobile one that goes from the cable to the pda.
>
> I've tried reinstalling PocketStreets but no joy( used the software from
the
> Autoroute 2004 CD ). Is there a separate GPS program- I've seen something
> mentioned but think that was older versions and can't see anything with
> this.
>
> I've just ran the GPS and main cable with my Psion and it works.
>
> There are GPS menu options in PocketStreets that are greyed out and can't
be
> accessed - Always Show Position, and GPS Sensor (which is ticked). I can,
> and do select COM1, but can't find anywhere in the PDA menus that allow
> checking of port settings (speeds etc)- if it is possible.
>
> I'll check through your site tomorrow- I'm on nightshift tonight. Are
there
> any other resources worth checking out?
>
>
>
> Are there any other forums worth trying for help?
>
> Thanks
>
>

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

I'd say give the guys at PC-Mobile a shout. They list asus@pc-mobile.net as
a contact specifically for Asus issues. They're in Hong Kong as you likely
know so there's a time lag, but they have been reasonably responsive in my
experience.

--
Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
"AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
news:ch957p$6nr$6@news8.svr.pol.co.uk...
> I've tried with and without the null modem adapter, and I have the Asus
> powered by the external battery box that they recommend too. My etrex is
set
> for NMEA (it has a number of other outputs including Garmins own).
>
> I think that the cable from PC-Mobile may be faulty- I've tried a
continuity
> tester and only 1 of the 3 connectors shows as connected through to the
pda
> connector. The three are common Data in, and data out, and the one
connected
> is pin 5 on the serial connector.
>
>
>
> "Sven, MVP-Mobile Devices" <sejohannsen@hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:e$7tXIWkEHA.596@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
> > Alan, if it is a cable from PC-Mobile designed to hook to an eTrex
serial
> > cable, the PA6GS which has a male 9 pin connector that fits into the
eTrex
> > serial cable (which has a female connector) then you do not need the
null
> > modem. The input for Pocket Streets is fixed at 4800Bps. I believe the
> eTrex
> > uses that by default if you set NMEA as the output.
> > Did you note the power info at the PC-Mobile site?
> > To use GPS interface connecting to GPS, external power for Asus A620
must
> be
> > used as the electronic circuitry in the interface require power and the
> > internal power of Asus A620 is not enough to drive the electronics.
> >
> > --
> > Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
> > "AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
> > news:ch7vg6$ao9$1@newsg4.svr.pol.co.uk...
> > >
> > > "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in
> message
> > > news:%23RkwDfSkEHA.1644@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > > > AlanS wrote:
> > > > > I have an Asus A620 and have pocket streets on it. I can't get the
> GPS
> > > > > function to work- it won't detect my Garmin etrex (I got a
> serial/gps
> > > > > cable from PC-Mobile).
> > > > >
> > > > > I'm using NMEA out. I've tried with/without a null modem adapter-
I
> > > > > can't tell whether one is needed (or how the PC-Mobile adapter is
> > > > > wired).
> > > > >
> > > > > Has anybody any hints?
> > > >
> > > > If you have a serial - GPS cable and are connecting this to the
A620's
> > > > serial cable then you need the null modem adapter. The Com Port
> should
> > be
> > > > 1. There are a number of small apps available to verify comms,
check
> > out
> > > > the downloads section of our site.
> > > >
> > > > --
> > > > Darren Griffin
> > > > PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> > > > The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > > I realise that a null modem should be used- I've used GPS with a Psion
> PDA
> > > for many years. This is connected via a GPS cable, null modem, then
the
> > > PC-Mobile one that goes from the cable to the pda.
> > >
> > > I've tried reinstalling PocketStreets but no joy( used the software
from
> > the
> > > Autoroute 2004 CD ). Is there a separate GPS program- I've seen
> something
> > > mentioned but think that was older versions and can't see anything
with
> > > this.
> > >
> > > I've just ran the GPS and main cable with my Psion and it works.
> > >
> > > There are GPS menu options in PocketStreets that are greyed out and
> can't
> > be
> > > accessed - Always Show Position, and GPS Sensor (which is ticked). I
> can,
> > > and do select COM1, but can't find anywhere in the PDA menus that
allow
> > > checking of port settings (speeds etc)- if it is possible.
> > >
> > > I'll check through your site tomorrow- I'm on nightshift tonight. Are
> > there
> > > any other resources worth checking out?
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > Are there any other forums worth trying for help?
> > >
> > > Thanks
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

AlanS wrote:
> Thanks. I'd ordered via ukorder2@pc-mobile.net and had emailed them,
> but no response in over 24 hours, and it's now the weekend. I'll try
> a copy to the address you give too.

Or post in our PC-Mobile Forum which is moderated by them
<http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewforum&f=49>
They have an excellent reputation for service so have no fear that they will
replace the cable.
--
Darren Griffin
PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

Perhaps I am missing something here. The Garmin cable to the PC is a simple
cable, no electronics in it. It should show continuity on each line/pin.
From what others have posted the ASUS A620 has a ttl to RS232 converter in
it. I would not expect it to show continuity between pins. (And I would not
be surprised if you happen to check between pins on the same connector (eg.
between pins on the RS232 connector) that you have blown the converter
within the ASUS A620 cable. The convert is protected when power up, but
applying power to pins on it when it is not power up is a very bad thing to
do, generally.

Here in the States I would need both a null modem adapter and also a gender
changer. Most PocketPCs have two versions of a serial cable. One designed
for ActiveSyncing which would require both the gender changer and null modem
adapter from Radio Shack. The other type, would be to add a serial
peripheral to the PocketPC (Which is harder to come by, and in my experience
generally short say 6 inches or so) and will have the same 9 pin connector
as on your PC.



--
David Hettel
Microsoft MVP Mobile Devices

This posting is provided "as is" with no warranties, and confers no rights.
You assume all risks for your use.

Handhelds, mobile: http://www.geekzone.co.nz
Bluetooth guides: http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=449

"AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
news:chcdhm$8dk$1@newsg2.svr.pol.co.uk...
>
> "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in message
> newsKmjWgkkEHA.3848@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
>> AlanS wrote:
>> > Thanks. I'd ordered via ukorder2@pc-mobile.net and had emailed them,
>> > but no response in over 24 hours, and it's now the weekend. I'll try
>> > a copy to the address you give too.
>>
>> Or post in our PC-Mobile Forum which is moderated by them
>>
> <http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewforum&f=49>
>> They have an excellent reputation for service so have no fear that they
> will
>> replace the cable.
>> --
>> Darren Griffin
>> PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
>> The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
>>
>>
>
> Thanks.
>
> That would be 3 messages agent about this them in under 2 days, and at the
> weekend too, plus this newsgroup would make 4! (1 to them in HK, 1 to the
> UK
> already sent).
>
> I don't really want to give the wrong impression (that I'm swamping them
> with emails/postings all over the place!) so I'll hang on a few more days
> before trying there, but thanks for the link. I'm really like to confirm
> if
> it is actually faulty first, then how to get a working replacement
> (preferably checked by them- someone/anyone - for operation first).
>
> I would like to double check the pin continuity though- to know if the 3
> Garmin data pins do show continuity on a working cable in this way (and
> which pins connect to which if possible- but just the continuity would
> confirm the status of my cable).
>
> Many thanks for the link.
>
>
> As an aside I'd like to recommend the battery box that they sell. It seems
> smaller than I had expected, and is pretty neat and well built. There is a
> screwhole to hold the top cover in place but no screw provided! It seems
> solid enough without a screw in place, and it looks like a fairly small
> self
> tapper would be needed. If the screw was in place I'd need the screwdriver
> with me on travels to allow battery changes so it's probably best not
> used-
> it doesn't seem to work well enough without the screw.
> When connected and switched on it charges the internal battery (as if the
> pda is connected to the mains), and one set of 4 x 1500 mAH NiMH batteries
> have given 2 charges from around 60% up to now. NiMH AA batteries can be
> found with over 2000 mAH now- I've seen 2150 mAH ones.
> It seems as if it will be a good convenient alternative to a travel
> charger-
> smaller and lighter too.
> The cable seems quite short- but actually is about 12 inches long. A nice
> and inexpensive accessory I certainly recommend, certainly not just for
> GPS
> users but offers an easy, portable and inexpensive way to extend the pda's
> battery life.
>
>
>

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

Why would that be different in Europe? Remember the PC-Mobile cable is
specifically designed to hook to a Garmin Data cable, as such the gender is
correct and the pinout is correct, for a direct connection. Sure, if you
are using the Garmin PC Cable and an Asus Serial Sync cable, you would need
the null modem to straighten out TX and RX, and likely the gender change
because both cables have female connectors, and the usual Null modem doesn't
change that. Incidentally if you buy a 9 pin null modem from PC-Mobile, you
get one with male connectors on both sides.

It does seem that the PC-Mobile Asus cable does have some electronics in it,
as the Dell X5 serial cable does, so checking for continuity from one end to
the other isn't going to tell much.

--
Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
"David Hettel MS MVP - Mobile Devices" <dhettel@fuse.net> wrote in message
news:%23Ezr2NpkEHA.1348@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl...
>
> Here in the States I would need both a null modem adapter and also a
gender
> changer. >
> --
> David Hettel
> Microsoft MVP Mobile Devices
>
> This posting is provided "as is" with no warranties, and confers no
rights.
> You assume all risks for your use.
>
> Handhelds, mobile: http://www.geekzone.co.nz
> Bluetooth guides: http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=449
>
> "AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
> news:chcdhm$8dk$1@newsg2.svr.pol.co.uk...
> >
> > "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in
message
> > newsKmjWgkkEHA.3848@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> >> AlanS wrote:
> >> > Thanks. I'd ordered via ukorder2@pc-mobile.net and had emailed them,
> >> > but no response in over 24 hours, and it's now the weekend. I'll try
> >> > a copy to the address you give too.
> >>
> >> Or post in our PC-Mobile Forum which is moderated by them
> >>
> >
<http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewforum&f=49>
> >> They have an excellent reputation for service so have no fear that they
> > will
> >> replace the cable.
> >> --
> >> Darren Griffin
> >> PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> >> The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
> >>
> >>
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > That would be 3 messages agent about this them in under 2 days, and at
the
> > weekend too, plus this newsgroup would make 4! (1 to them in HK, 1 to
the
> > UK
> > already sent).
> >
> > I don't really want to give the wrong impression (that I'm swamping them
> > with emails/postings all over the place!) so I'll hang on a few more
days
> > before trying there, but thanks for the link. I'm really like to confirm
> > if
> > it is actually faulty first, then how to get a working replacement
> > (preferably checked by them- someone/anyone - for operation first).
> >
> > I would like to double check the pin continuity though- to know if the 3
> > Garmin data pins do show continuity on a working cable in this way (and
> > which pins connect to which if possible- but just the continuity would
> > confirm the status of my cable).
> >
> > Many thanks for the link.
> >
> >
> > As an aside I'd like to recommend the battery box that they sell. It
seems
> > smaller than I had expected, and is pretty neat and well built. There is
a
> > screwhole to hold the top cover in place but no screw provided! It seems
> > solid enough without a screw in place, and it looks like a fairly small
> > self
> > tapper would be needed. If the screw was in place I'd need the
screwdriver
> > with me on travels to allow battery changes so it's probably best not
> > used-
> > it doesn't seem to work well enough without the screw.
> > When connected and switched on it charges the internal battery (as if
the
> > pda is connected to the mains), and one set of 4 x 1500 mAH NiMH
batteries
> > have given 2 charges from around 60% up to now. NiMH AA batteries can be
> > found with over 2000 mAH now- I've seen 2150 mAH ones.
> > It seems as if it will be a good convenient alternative to a travel
> > charger-
> > smaller and lighter too.
> > The cable seems quite short- but actually is about 12 inches long. A
nice
> > and inexpensive accessory I certainly recommend, certainly not just for
> > GPS
> > users but offers an easy, portable and inexpensive way to extend the
pda's
> > battery life.
> >
> >
> >
>
>

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

"David Hettel MS MVP - Mobile Devices" <dhettel@fuse.net> wrote in message
news:%23Ezr2NpkEHA.1348@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl...
> Perhaps I am missing something here. The Garmin cable to the PC is a
simple
> cable, no electronics in it. It should show continuity on each line/pin.

There are only 4 pins on the Garmin unit. Therefore a MAXIMUM of 4 need to
be connected- more means more cost.

1 pin is for external power- it is specificaly not supported in the cable I
bought, and there is NO connector in the cable. That leaves the 3 connectors
I mentioned in an earlier post- a ground, data in, and data out.
The cable that then interfaces to my ppc connects to this cable, so only 3
pins are relevant, of which I can only detect continuity, or a connection,
to 1 of these pins.


> From what others have posted the ASUS A620 has a ttl to RS232 converter in
> it. I would not expect it to show continuity between pins. (And I would
not
> be surprised if you happen to check between pins on the same connector
(eg.
> between pins on the RS232 connector) that you have blown the converter
> within the ASUS A620 cable. The convert is protected when power up, but
> applying power to pins on it when it is not power up is a very bad thing
to
> do, generally.
>

The connection being tested is cable only. The A620 could be in China,
Australia or anywhere else- it's not relevant to the cable continuity test.

> Here in the States I would need both a null modem adapter and also a
gender
> changer. Most PocketPCs have two versions of a serial cable. One designed
> for ActiveSyncing which would require both the gender changer and null
modem
> adapter from Radio Shack. The other type, would be to add a serial
> peripheral to the PocketPC (Which is harder to come by, and in my
experience
> generally short say 6 inches or so) and will have the same 9 pin connector
> as on your PC.
>

The cable doesn't need a gender changer, but connection to my Psion
organiser did. (But that used a Psion serial connector which did data
transfers not only GPS data). The cable from PC-Mobile is specifically GPS
only. It needs no more than the 3 pin connections to fulfil its purpose.

wrt the null modem I have tried both ways- with and without- as the need for
one is not specifically stated on the pc-mobile site. It is a passive device
so no damage can be done, all that happens is data out and data in get
swapped around.


>
>
> --
> David Hettel
> Microsoft MVP Mobile Devices
>
> This posting is provided "as is" with no warranties, and confers no
rights.
> You assume all risks for your use.
>
> Handhelds, mobile: http://www.geekzone.co.nz
> Bluetooth guides: http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=449
>
> "AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
> news:chcdhm$8dk$1@newsg2.svr.pol.co.uk...
> >
> > "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in
message
> > newsKmjWgkkEHA.3848@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> >> AlanS wrote:
> >> > Thanks. I'd ordered via ukorder2@pc-mobile.net and had emailed them,
> >> > but no response in over 24 hours, and it's now the weekend. I'll try
> >> > a copy to the address you give too.
> >>
> >> Or post in our PC-Mobile Forum which is moderated by them
> >>
> >
<http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewforum&f=49>
> >> They have an excellent reputation for service so have no fear that they
> > will
> >> replace the cable.
> >> --
> >> Darren Griffin
> >> PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> >> The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
> >>
> >>
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > That would be 3 messages agent about this them in under 2 days, and at
the
> > weekend too, plus this newsgroup would make 4! (1 to them in HK, 1 to
the
> > UK
> > already sent).
> >
> > I don't really want to give the wrong impression (that I'm swamping them
> > with emails/postings all over the place!) so I'll hang on a few more
days
> > before trying there, but thanks for the link. I'm really like to confirm
> > if
> > it is actually faulty first, then how to get a working replacement
> > (preferably checked by them- someone/anyone - for operation first).
> >
> > I would like to double check the pin continuity though- to know if the 3
> > Garmin data pins do show continuity on a working cable in this way (and
> > which pins connect to which if possible- but just the continuity would
> > confirm the status of my cable).
> >
> > Many thanks for the link.
> >
> >
> > As an aside I'd like to recommend the battery box that they sell. It
seems
> > smaller than I had expected, and is pretty neat and well built. There is
a
> > screwhole to hold the top cover in place but no screw provided! It seems
> > solid enough without a screw in place, and it looks like a fairly small
> > self
> > tapper would be needed. If the screw was in place I'd need the
screwdriver
> > with me on travels to allow battery changes so it's probably best not
> > used-
> > it doesn't seem to work well enough without the screw.
> > When connected and switched on it charges the internal battery (as if
the
> > pda is connected to the mains), and one set of 4 x 1500 mAH NiMH
batteries
> > have given 2 charges from around 60% up to now. NiMH AA batteries can be
> > found with over 2000 mAH now- I've seen 2150 mAH ones.
> > It seems as if it will be a good convenient alternative to a travel
> > charger-
> > smaller and lighter too.
> > The cable seems quite short- but actually is about 12 inches long. A
nice
> > and inexpensive accessory I certainly recommend, certainly not just for
> > GPS
> > users but offers an easy, portable and inexpensive way to extend the
pda's
> > battery life.
> >
> >
> >
>
>

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

I guess you missed the point. The Dell cable I referred to has electronics
in the cable. It has a TTL to R3232 converter, IN THE CABLE. I speculated,
and I used the word 'speculated', that the Asus might be similar. In that
case you would not get continuity on the data pins, most likely just on the
ground. All I meant to bring up, is that there is some possibility that the
Pc-Mobile cable is more than two connectors and three wires, and testing it
with an ohmmeter may be counterproductive.

Good luck. I'm sure PC-Mobile will come through for you.
--
Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
"AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
news:che8t2$ijr$4@news5.svr.pol.co.uk...
>
> "Sven, MVP-Mobile Devices" <sejohannsen@hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:%23xibZEqkEHA.1048@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > Just speculating but if the Asus is like the Dell X5, then the 'serial'
> > capability at the bottom of the device is TTL logic, 0-5v (about). The
> Dell
> > produced Serial Sync cable has a TTL to RS232 converter built into the
> > cable. The cable then is expecting 0-5V on one side and -5 to +5 on the
> > other (about). The converter is powered from the Dell. You are right
> > though, that it would be unlikely that hitting even the TTL side with a
> > normal ohm-meter would damage it.
> >
>
> No damage has occured when measuring such devices in the past, this is a
> resonably specified device well above entry level models. I would doubt
any
> relevance anyway- all it has been used on is the cable, *NOT* the pda- I'm
> looking ror continuity (cable connections), so why would I need to go
> anywhere near the Asus with the meter? It's pointless for this issue-
cable
> connections.
>
>
> > If you think about it, for a GPS all you need to do is get data from the
> GPS
> > into the PPC. That is data from the RS232 side into the TTL side. If
the
> > 1's and 0s are swinging +5 to -5 at the GPS and the receiver in the PPC
> > expects +5 for a 1 and 0v for a 0, it can actually work without a
> converter.
> > You won't get data transfer from the TTL to the RS232 though because the
> > RS232 side will never see a solid 0 (zero) because the TTL doesn't go
> > negative enough, or at all. (OK if it's negative mark that is all
upside
> > down, but you get the idea). The serial sync cable that Dell sells is
for
> > syncing, and therefore must be capable of doing data in both directions.
> May
> > or may not be the case with the Asus or PC-Mobile's cables.
> >
> >
>
> This is irrelevant to whether one pin is connected to another within an
> irnterface cable?
>
> Please read what was said- Only one of the 3 required pins shows to be
> connected from one side of the pc-mobile cable to the other. The hint here
> is the word cable, not pda, not Asus A620.
>
> David Hettel is adding complication that isn't relevant. I isolated the
> issue down to the cable or the Asus initially. The cable is easy to test-
> just 3 wires. Only one is connected. It would seem this is the issue and
any
> work on the Asus is likely to be pointless?
>
> If I had a cable where the 3 connections where made then it would be time
to
> look at the Asus, but I need a cable that works first?
>
>
>
> > --
> > Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
> > "V Green" <vanceg@nowhere.net> wrote in message
> > news:%23GkD8lpkEHA.644@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > >
> > > "David Hettel MS MVP - Mobile Devices" <dhettel@fuse.net> wrote in
> message
> > > news:%23Ezr2NpkEHA.1348@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl...
> > > > Perhaps I am missing something here. The Garmin cable to the PC is a
> > > simple
> > > > cable, no electronics in it. It should show continuity on each
> line/pin.
> > > > From what others have posted the ASUS A620 has a ttl to RS232
> converter
> > in
> > > > it. I would not expect it to show continuity between pins. (And I
> would
> > > not
> > > > be surprised if you happen to check between pins on the same
connector
> > > (eg.
> > > > between pins on the RS232 connector) that you have blown the
converter
> > > > within the ASUS A620 cable.
> > >
> > > Not likely if manufactured properly.
> > >
> > > Don't forget, the RS-232 spec allows for voltage
> > > swings of up to +/- 25VDC.
> > >
> > > Most if not all DVMS use a 9V rectangular battery
> > > as power source, hence the max. voltage that should
> > > appear on the leads when it's set to any resistance scale
> > > should not exceed that value.
> > >
> > > Now, if you grabbed your Megger to do the checking, well...
> > >
> > > It should be expected that some so-called "RS-232"
> > > devices are manufactured on the ASSUMPTION that it will
> > > NEVER ACTUALLY be hooked (as in a PC environment)
> > > to an honest-to-God older RS-232 device like a TTY
> > > where it'll see the higher voltages
> > > allowed by the spec and fudge the circuitry
> > > such that damaging it with a DVM may be possible.
> > >
> > > ESD would be my choice of mechanism that destroyed
> > > your cable (if it actually has been).
> > >
> > >
> > > > The convert is protected when power up, but
> > > > applying power to pins on it when it is not power up is a very bad
> thing
> > > to
> > > > do, generally.
> > > >
> > > > Here in the States I would need both a null modem adapter and also a
> > > gender
> > > > changer. Most PocketPCs have two versions of a serial cable. One
> > designed
> > > > for ActiveSyncing which would require both the gender changer and
null
> > > modem
> > > > adapter from Radio Shack. The other type, would be to add a serial
> > > > peripheral to the PocketPC (Which is harder to come by, and in my
> > > experience
> > > > generally short say 6 inches or so) and will have the same 9 pin
> > connector
> > > > as on your PC.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --
> > > > David Hettel
> > > > Microsoft MVP Mobile Devices
> > > >
> > > > This posting is provided "as is" with no warranties, and confers no
> > > rights.
> > > > You assume all risks for your use.
> > > >
> > > > Handhelds, mobile: http://www.geekzone.co.nz
> > > > Bluetooth guides:
http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=449
> > > >
> > > > "AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
> > > > news:chcdhm$8dk$1@newsg2.svr.pol.co.uk...
> > > > >
> > > > > "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote in
> > > message
> > > > > newsKmjWgkkEHA.3848@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > > > >> AlanS wrote:
> > > > >> > Thanks. I'd ordered via ukorder2@pc-mobile.net and had emailed
> > them,
> > > > >> > but no response in over 24 hours, and it's now the weekend.
I'll
> > try
> > > > >> > a copy to the address you give too.
> > > > >>
> > > > >> Or post in our PC-Mobile Forum which is moderated by them
> > > > >>
> > > > >
> > >
> >
>
<http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewforum&f=49>
> > > > >> They have an excellent reputation for service so have no fear
that
> > they
> > > > > will
> > > > >> replace the cable.
> > > > >> --
> > > > >> Darren Griffin
> > > > >> PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> > > > >> The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
> > > > >>
> > > > >>
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks.
> > > > >
> > > > > That would be 3 messages agent about this them in under 2 days,
and
> at
> > > the
> > > > > weekend too, plus this newsgroup would make 4! (1 to them in HK, 1
> to
> > > the
> > > > > UK
> > > > > already sent).
> > > > >
> > > > > I don't really want to give the wrong impression (that I'm
swamping
> > them
> > > > > with emails/postings all over the place!) so I'll hang on a few
more
> > > days
> > > > > before trying there, but thanks for the link. I'm really like to
> > confirm
> > > > > if
> > > > > it is actually faulty first, then how to get a working replacement
> > > > > (preferably checked by them- someone/anyone - for operation
first).
> > > > >
> > > > > I would like to double check the pin continuity though- to know if
> the
> > 3
> > > > > Garmin data pins do show continuity on a working cable in this way
> > (and
> > > > > which pins connect to which if possible- but just the continuity
> would
> > > > > confirm the status of my cable).
> > > > >
> > > > > Many thanks for the link.
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > As an aside I'd like to recommend the battery box that they sell.
It
> > > seems
> > > > > smaller than I had expected, and is pretty neat and well built.
> There
> > is
> > > a
> > > > > screwhole to hold the top cover in place but no screw provided! It
> > seems
> > > > > solid enough without a screw in place, and it looks like a fairly
> > small
> > > > > self
> > > > > tapper would be needed. If the screw was in place I'd need the
> > > screwdriver
> > > > > with me on travels to allow battery changes so it's probably best
> not
> > > > > used-
> > > > > it doesn't seem to work well enough without the screw.
> > > > > When connected and switched on it charges the internal battery (as
> if
> > > the
> > > > > pda is connected to the mains), and one set of 4 x 1500 mAH NiMH
> > > batteries
> > > > > have given 2 charges from around 60% up to now. NiMH AA batteries
> can
> > be
> > > > > found with over 2000 mAH now- I've seen 2150 mAH ones.
> > > > > It seems as if it will be a good convenient alternative to a
travel
> > > > > charger-
> > > > > smaller and lighter too.
> > > > > The cable seems quite short- but actually is about 12 inches long.
A
> > > nice
> > > > > and inexpensive accessory I certainly recommend, certainly not
just
> > for
> > > > > GPS
> > > > > users but offers an easy, portable and inexpensive way to extend
the
> > > pda's
> > > > > battery life.
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.pocketpc (More info?)

I have to say first impressions have not impressed.
Sales have sent me some questions, and not even attempted to answer my
questions, and giving the impression of totally ignoring the information I
have given them.



"AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
news:chgunk$h0g$1@newsg3.svr.pol.co.uk...
> Thanks. I'll post back when I find a solution.
>
> I wouldn't expect any devices in the cable but I'll let you know if your
> thoughts are correct, but I have doubts as there is no power supply to the
> cable, just ground, data in and data out.
>
> "Sven, MVP-Mobile Devices" <sejohannsen@hotmail.com> wrote in message
> newsY6CPM7kEHA.3720@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
> > I guess you missed the point. The Dell cable I referred to has
electronics
> > in the cable. It has a TTL to R3232 converter, IN THE CABLE. I
speculated,
> > and I used the word 'speculated', that the Asus might be similar. In
that
> > case you would not get continuity on the data pins, most likely just on
> the
> > ground. All I meant to bring up, is that there is some possibility that
> the
> > Pc-Mobile cable is more than two connectors and three wires, and testing
> it
> > with an ohmmeter may be counterproductive.
> >
> > Good luck. I'm sure PC-Mobile will come through for you.
> > --
> > Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
> > "AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
> > news:che8t2$ijr$4@news5.svr.pol.co.uk...
> > >
> > > "Sven, MVP-Mobile Devices" <sejohannsen@hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > > news:%23xibZEqkEHA.1048@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > > > Just speculating but if the Asus is like the Dell X5, then the
> 'serial'
> > > > capability at the bottom of the device is TTL logic, 0-5v (about).
The
> > > Dell
> > > > produced Serial Sync cable has a TTL to RS232 converter built into
the
> > > > cable. The cable then is expecting 0-5V on one side and -5 to +5 on
> the
> > > > other (about). The converter is powered from the Dell. You are
right
> > > > though, that it would be unlikely that hitting even the TTL side
with
> a
> > > > normal ohm-meter would damage it.
> > > >
> > >
> > > No damage has occured when measuring such devices in the past, this is
a
> > > resonably specified device well above entry level models. I would
doubt
> > any
> > > relevance anyway- all it has been used on is the cable, *NOT* the pda-
> I'm
> > > looking ror continuity (cable connections), so why would I need to go
> > > anywhere near the Asus with the meter? It's pointless for this issue-
> > cable
> > > connections.
> > >
> > >
> > > > If you think about it, for a GPS all you need to do is get data from
> the
> > > GPS
> > > > into the PPC. That is data from the RS232 side into the TTL side.
If
> > the
> > > > 1's and 0s are swinging +5 to -5 at the GPS and the receiver in the
> PPC
> > > > expects +5 for a 1 and 0v for a 0, it can actually work without a
> > > converter.
> > > > You won't get data transfer from the TTL to the RS232 though because
> the
> > > > RS232 side will never see a solid 0 (zero) because the TTL doesn't
go
> > > > negative enough, or at all. (OK if it's negative mark that is all
> > upside
> > > > down, but you get the idea). The serial sync cable that Dell sells
is
> > for
> > > > syncing, and therefore must be capable of doing data in both
> directions.
> > > May
> > > > or may not be the case with the Asus or PC-Mobile's cables.
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > > This is irrelevant to whether one pin is connected to another within
an
> > > irnterface cable?
> > >
> > > Please read what was said- Only one of the 3 required pins shows to be
> > > connected from one side of the pc-mobile cable to the other. The hint
> here
> > > is the word cable, not pda, not Asus A620.
> > >
> > > David Hettel is adding complication that isn't relevant. I isolated
the
> > > issue down to the cable or the Asus initially. The cable is easy to
> test-
> > > just 3 wires. Only one is connected. It would seem this is the issue
and
> > any
> > > work on the Asus is likely to be pointless?
> > >
> > > If I had a cable where the 3 connections where made then it would be
> time
> > to
> > > look at the Asus, but I need a cable that works first?
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > > --
> > > > Sven, MS-MVP Mobile Devices
> > > > "V Green" <vanceg@nowhere.net> wrote in message
> > > > news:%23GkD8lpkEHA.644@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > > > >
> > > > > "David Hettel MS MVP - Mobile Devices" <dhettel@fuse.net> wrote in
> > > message
> > > > > news:%23Ezr2NpkEHA.1348@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl...
> > > > > > Perhaps I am missing something here. The Garmin cable to the PC
is
> a
> > > > > simple
> > > > > > cable, no electronics in it. It should show continuity on each
> > > line/pin.
> > > > > > From what others have posted the ASUS A620 has a ttl to RS232
> > > converter
> > > > in
> > > > > > it. I would not expect it to show continuity between pins. (And
I
> > > would
> > > > > not
> > > > > > be surprised if you happen to check between pins on the same
> > connector
> > > > > (eg.
> > > > > > between pins on the RS232 connector) that you have blown the
> > converter
> > > > > > within the ASUS A620 cable.
> > > > >
> > > > > Not likely if manufactured properly.
> > > > >
> > > > > Don't forget, the RS-232 spec allows for voltage
> > > > > swings of up to +/- 25VDC.
> > > > >
> > > > > Most if not all DVMS use a 9V rectangular battery
> > > > > as power source, hence the max. voltage that should
> > > > > appear on the leads when it's set to any resistance scale
> > > > > should not exceed that value.
> > > > >
> > > > > Now, if you grabbed your Megger to do the checking, well...
> > > > >
> > > > > It should be expected that some so-called "RS-232"
> > > > > devices are manufactured on the ASSUMPTION that it will
> > > > > NEVER ACTUALLY be hooked (as in a PC environment)
> > > > > to an honest-to-God older RS-232 device like a TTY
> > > > > where it'll see the higher voltages
> > > > > allowed by the spec and fudge the circuitry
> > > > > such that damaging it with a DVM may be possible.
> > > > >
> > > > > ESD would be my choice of mechanism that destroyed
> > > > > your cable (if it actually has been).
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > The convert is protected when power up, but
> > > > > > applying power to pins on it when it is not power up is a very
bad
> > > thing
> > > > > to
> > > > > > do, generally.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Here in the States I would need both a null modem adapter and
also
> a
> > > > > gender
> > > > > > changer. Most PocketPCs have two versions of a serial cable. One
> > > > designed
> > > > > > for ActiveSyncing which would require both the gender changer
and
> > null
> > > > > modem
> > > > > > adapter from Radio Shack. The other type, would be to add a
serial
> > > > > > peripheral to the PocketPC (Which is harder to come by, and in
my
> > > > > experience
> > > > > > generally short say 6 inches or so) and will have the same 9 pin
> > > > connector
> > > > > > as on your PC.
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --
> > > > > > David Hettel
> > > > > > Microsoft MVP Mobile Devices
> > > > > >
> > > > > > This posting is provided "as is" with no warranties, and confers
> no
> > > > > rights.
> > > > > > You assume all risks for your use.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Handhelds, mobile: http://www.geekzone.co.nz
> > > > > > Bluetooth guides:
> > http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=449
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "AlanS" <news@remove.abyz.fslife.co.uk> wrote in message
> > > > > > news:chcdhm$8dk$1@newsg2.svr.pol.co.uk...
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Darren Griffin - PocketGPS" <darren@pocketgpsworld.com> wrote
> in
> > > > > message
> > > > > > > newsKmjWgkkEHA.3848@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> > > > > > >> AlanS wrote:
> > > > > > >> > Thanks. I'd ordered via ukorder2@pc-mobile.net and had
> emailed
> > > > them,
> > > > > > >> > but no response in over 24 hours, and it's now the weekend.
> > I'll
> > > > try
> > > > > > >> > a copy to the address you give too.
> > > > > > >>
> > > > > > >> Or post in our PC-Mobile Forum which is moderated by them
> > > > > > >>
> > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>
<http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewforum&f=49>
> > > > > > >> They have an excellent reputation for service so have no fear
> > that
> > > > they
> > > > > > > will
> > > > > > >> replace the cable.
> > > > > > >> --
> > > > > > >> Darren Griffin
> > > > > > >> PocketGPSWorld - www.pocketgpsworld.com
> > > > > > >> The Premier GPS Resource for News, Reviews and Forums
> > > > > > >>
> > > > > > >>
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Thanks.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > That would be 3 messages agent about this them in under 2
days,
> > and
> > > at
> > > > > the
> > > > > > > weekend too, plus this newsgroup would make 4! (1 to them in
HK,
> 1
> > > to
> > > > > the
> > > > > > > UK
> > > > > > > already sent).
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I don't really want to give the wrong impression (that I'm
> > swamping
> > > > them
> > > > > > > with emails/postings all over the place!) so I'll hang on a
few
> > more
> > > > > days
> > > > > > > before trying there, but thanks for the link. I'm really like
to
> > > > confirm
> > > > > > > if
> > > > > > > it is actually faulty first, then how to get a working
> replacement
> > > > > > > (preferably checked by them- someone/anyone - for operation
> > first).
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I would like to double check the pin continuity though- to
know
> if
> > > the
> > > > 3
> > > > > > > Garmin data pins do show continuity on a working cable in this
> way
> > > > (and
> > > > > > > which pins connect to which if possible- but just the
continuity
> > > would
> > > > > > > confirm the status of my cable).
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Many thanks for the link.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > As an aside I'd like to recommend the battery box that they
> sell.
> > It
> > > > > seems
> > > > > > > smaller than I had expected, and is pretty neat and well
built.
> > > There
> > > > is
> > > > > a
> > > > > > > screwhole to hold the top cover in place but no screw
provided!
> It
> > > > seems
> > > > > > > solid enough without a screw in place, and it looks like a
> fairly
> > > > small
> > > > > > > self
> > > > > > > tapper would be needed. If the screw was in place I'd need the
> > > > > screwdriver
> > > > > > > with me on travels to allow battery changes so it's probably
> best
> > > not
> > > > > > > used-
> > > > > > > it doesn't seem to work well enough without the screw.
> > > > > > > When connected and switched on it charges the internal battery
> (as
> > > if
> > > > > the
> > > > > > > pda is connected to the mains), and one set of 4 x 1500 mAH
NiMH
> > > > > batteries
> > > > > > > have given 2 charges from around 60% up to now. NiMH AA
> batteries
> > > can
> > > > be
> > > > > > > found with over 2000 mAH now- I've seen 2150 mAH ones.
> > > > > > > It seems as if it will be a good convenient alternative to a
> > travel
> > > > > > > charger-
> > > > > > > smaller and lighter too.
> > > > > > > The cable seems quite short- but actually is about 12 inches
> long.
> > A
> > > > > nice
> > > > > > > and inexpensive accessory I certainly recommend, certainly not
> > just
> > > > for
> > > > > > > GPS
> > > > > > > users but offers an easy, portable and inexpensive way to
extend
> > the
> > > > > pda's
> > > > > > > battery life.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>