Cant reflash or reload firmware

[SRCobra]

As title states.
I was trying to connect to my old MS1 v3 in my cobra replica using Tunerstudio and my computer wouldn't find it at all.
I lost connection a couple of years ago using megatune but put that down to swapping my software onto another machine and the handshaking not working. Anyway I thought I would try TS as it should've found it automatically. Tried manually entering all the variancies (using TS) in my old folders 029k,029r etc this didn't work either.
I thought the firmware was maybe corrupt so I tried a reflash of latest 029Y code and also tried as if it was a full reboot - failed over several attempts.
Serial port is set correctly as Portcheck etc works OK - because I have just updated the old MS1 v2.2 on my old Scimitar with 029Y (i was using MS&S and megatune 220 for it and now I can use Tunerstudio).

Anyway, back to the cobra. I reckon there must be a fault on my v3 board or the actual 232 chip so I will follow through the tips given elsewhere to diagnose/find problem but I just thought I would ask if there are any known common issues.

Regards.
John.

[dontz125]

Sounds like you've killed the chip. Take a look at the MegaManual Serial Communications Testing Section (normally a bad idea when using MSExtra, but the loop-back test seems to have fallen off the various testing pages ...

[SRCobra]

Thanks Dontz125.
I had found that guide and have still to find the time to work through it.
The MS still works with the last settings put in years ago but never finished tuning.
My plan is to work through it this weekend. Suspect the 232 chip but we shall see.
Regards.
John.

[dontz125]

If the MS actually works, then the processor still works. Check the solder joints of the DB9, the 232 chip, and the capacitors for the 232 chip.

[jsmcortina]

the loop-back test seems to have fallen off the various testing pages ...

I don't think they've ever been there. (Check wayback?)

James

[SRCobra]

Yep the MS works OK in the car but wont connect to PC.
Have now continuity tested as described in the connection troubleshoot from guide DB9 to SP232 and through to main processor pins also.
No high resistance. Checked the SP232 to the capacitors C26-29 and return and they seem fine. The capacitors look OK and are not short circuits.
Powered up in car and have checked and got power at 232 and main processor Vref(pin31 output).
Looks like the 232 chip itself methinks.
John.

[DaveEFI]

the loop-back test seems to have fallen off the various testing pages ...

I don't think they've ever been there. (Check wayback?)

James

It's still a test I use on the odd occasion to check the 232 chip.

[jsmcortina]

the loop-back test seems to have fallen off the various testing pages ...

I don't think they've ever been there. (Check wayback?)

James

It's still a test I use on the odd occasion to check the 232 chip.

Sure. Don was suggesting that it had been removed from the MS1/Extra manuals. I don't think it ever made it there.

James

[dontz125]

I didn't see it in the MS2 manual either. Also, that check is just as valid for MS1 build.

[jsmcortina]

I didn't see it in the MS2 manual either. Also, that check is just as valid for MS1 build.

It's here... http://www.msextra.com/doc/pdf/html/Meg ... .3-92.html

James

[SRCobra]

Thanks guys. Good link. Took the CPU out and jumpered at the socket definately dont get a reply using hyperterminal.
It would seem the 323 chip is knackered right enough.
John.

[SRCobra]

Yippee! Cobra speaks again!
Replaced the 232 chip and TS automatically picked up my 029q firmware and EDIS ignition.
Can start some proper tuning now.
Thanks for your links and guidance guys.
John.