SDS200 Not Getting In Serial Mode

[kudzu_kid]

So this is a new problem for me.

I usually only randomly update my database. Usually between every 3-6 months.

I tried to update earlier this evening. I got the press the "." or "E" screen. Hit "." and it paused momentarily and then proceeded to scan as normal!! If I hit "E" that seems to do the corresponding (but not desired) function. Sentinel doesn't see the microSD card even after "Refresh", I tried a different cable, no change in behavior. Does this sound like anything anyone has seen before? What might be wrong? I dread having to send this in to Uniden as we're just entering monsoon / tornado season here in OK. All hints, tips, suggestions are greatly appreciated.

--Pete

 

[KevinC]

May not be it, but are you sure your USB cable is data and charge and not charge only?

 

[kudzu_kid]

Actually, no I don't know. I have one I use on a portable USB drive, which I presume would be data & power, I will try it. So - charge cable alone would trigger the "." or "E" screen? Let me go grab that cable. I will get back to the forum if THAT (portable drive) cable works!

 

[KevinC]

Actually, no I don't know. I have one I use on a portable USB drive, which I presume would be data & power, I will try it. So - charge cable alone would trigger the "." or "E" screen? Let me go grab that cable. I will get back to the forum if THAT (portable drive) cable works!

I "believe" what triggers the prompt is voltage on the power lines.

 

[nessnet]

I "believe" what triggers the prompt is voltage on the power lines.

No, if is not a data cable, it won't trigger the mount or serial screen.
If you get the "." or "E", it is a data cable.

OP:
As to your 'issue' - you (probably) have none.
If you select "." it goes into serial mode - and resumes normal function (scanning, or whatever state it was in when you got the prompt).
Check device manager - you will have a comm port assigned to the radio.

Or, you select "E" it goes into USB mass storage mode (what displays on the screen and the SD card is in the process of being mounted).
Depending on your computer, it takes a bit to mount the card and windows to recognize it.

If the SD card doesn't mount normally, you most likely have a Windows problem, not the cable. (??)

 

[fxdscon]

I hit "E" that seems to do the corresponding (but not desired) function.

Hitting the "E" and going into the "Mass Storage Mode" IS the desired function for programming and database updates.

 

[KK4JUG]

While we're on the subject...... I have a drawer full of various USB cables and I know several are charge-only cables. Does anyone make a USB cable tester that will indicate data capability and/or charge-only?