Device Driver User Guide
Windows 7
Windows Server 2008
Windows Vista
Windows Server 2003
Windows XP
Trademark Notices
Document Number: 2000564 Rev. A
Comtrol, DeviceMaster, RocketModem, and RocketPort are trademarks of Comtrol Corporation.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective
owners.
First Edition, July 3, 2012
Copyright © 2012. Comtrol Corporation.
All Rights Reserved.
Comtrol Corporation makes no representations or warranties with regard to the contents of this document or
to the suitability of the Comtrol product for any particular purpose. Specifications subject to change without
notice. Some software or features may not be available at the time of publication. Contact your reseller for
current product information.
Table of Contents
Overview...................................................................................................................................5
Comtrol Drivers Management Console .................................................................................................... 5
Supported Operating Systems.................................................................................................................... 5
Products Supported ...................................................................................................................................... 6
Conventions .................................................................................................................................................... 6
Downloading the Latest Software and User Guides ............................................................................. 7
RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY .............................................................................................................. 7
RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI)........................................................................................ 8
Device Driver Installation...................................................................................................9
Overview.......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Installation Setup Wizard.......................................................................................................................... 10
Checking the Device Driver Version ...................................................................................................... 15
Updating the Driver.................................................................................................................................... 15
Adding an Adapter (Existing Installation) ............................................................................................ 20
Device Driver Configuration .............................................................................................23
Using the Comtrol Drivers Management Console ............................................................................... 23
Accessing the Comtrol Drivers Management Console ............................................................................ 23
Displaying All Installed Devices .............................................................................................................. 23
Expanding the View ................................................................................................................................. 24
How to Configure Device Properties........................................................................................................ 24
Customizing the Device Name ................................................................................................................. 25
Customizing the COM Port Name ........................................................................................................... 25
How to Configure COM Port Properties.................................................................................................. 26
How to Save Changes ............................................................................................................................... 27
Configuring Device Properties ................................................................................................................ 28
Configuring COM Port Properties .......................................................................................................... 30
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters.......................................................35
Verifying the Modems Installed ............................................................................................................... 35
Testing the Modems .................................................................................................................................... 40
Testing RocketModem IV Ports ............................................................................................................... 42
Using Configuration Files ..................................................................................................45
Saving Configuration Files ....................................................................................................................... 45
Loading a Configuration File ................................................................................................................... 45
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A 3
Table of Contents
Removing the Adapter and Driver...................................................................................47
Removing a RocketPort ............................................................................................................................. 47
Windows 7 and Windows Vista ................................................................................................................ 47
Windows Server 2008 R2.......................................................................................................................... 47
Windows Server 2003 ............................................................................................................................... 47
Windows XP .............................................................................................................................................. 48
Not logged into a Domain Controller ................................................................................................ 48
Logged into a Domain Controller ...................................................................................................... 48
Removing the Device Driver and Adapter ............................................................................................ 48
Troubleshooting and Technical Support........................................................................51
Troubleshooting Checklist ........................................................................................................................ 51
Comtrol Utility ............................................................................................................................................. 53
Installing the Comtrol Utility .................................................................................................................. 53
Using Port Monitor (PMon2).................................................................................................................... 55
Testing Comtrol COM Ports .............................................................................................................. 55
Using Test Terminal................................................................................................................................. 58
Opening Ports..................................................................................................................................... 58
Sending and Receiving Test Data (RS-232/422 and RS-485: 4-Wire).............................................. 59
Loopback Test (RS-232)...................................................................................................................... 60
Sending and Receiving Data (RS-485: 2-Wire) ....................................................................................... 60
Before Calling Technical Support ........................................................................................................... 63
Technical Support ....................................................................................................................................... 64
Configuring Non-Plug and Play Devices ........................................................................65
Installing Non-Plug and Play Devices .................................................................................................... 65
Installing Modems .................................................................................................................................... 65
Installing Printers .................................................................................................................................... 66
4 RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Overview
This section discusses the following topics:
• Comtrol Drivers Management Console
• Supported Operating Systems
• Products Supported
• Conventions on Page 6
• Downloading the Latest Software and User Guides on Page 7
Comtrol Drivers Management Console
This User Guide discusses how to install and configure Comtrol device drivers
using the Installation Setup Wizard and the Comtrol Drivers Management Console
for the device driver.
The Comtrol Drivers Management Console is accessible through the Windows
Control Panel using a dedicated shortcut created during the initial device driver
installation process. The Comtrol Drivers Management Console allows you to
browse all installed and supported Comtrol products in one place and apply any
changes quickly.
Note: This User Guide discusses Comtrol adapters, see the DeviceMaster Device
You can refer to Using the Comtrol Drivers Management Console on Page 28 for
general information about the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
Driver User Guide for Windows for DeviceMaster specific information.
Supported Operating Systems
The Comtrol Drivers Management Console supports the following operating
systems:
• Windows 7
• Windows Server 2008
• Windows Vista
• Windows Server 2003
• Windows XP
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Overview - 5
Overview
Products Supported
Conventions
These are the products supported by the Comtrol Drivers Management Console:
• DeviceMaster PRO
• DeviceMaster RTS
• DeviceMaster Serial Hub
• DeviceMaster 500
• RocketModem IV
• RocketPort EXPRESS
• RocketPort EXPRESS SMPTE
• RocketPort INFINITY
• RocketPort Plus Universal PCI
• RocketPort Plus/422 Universal PCI
• RocketPort Universal PCI
• RocketPort Universal PCI SMPTE
In the remainder of this User Guide, the products are referred to accordingly:
• Comtrol device unless there is model-specific information
• DeviceMaster means the DeviceMaster models listed in the previous
subsection
• RocketPort means any RocketPort model
• RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY means RocketPort EXPRESS, RocketPort
EXPRESS SMPTE, and RocketPort INFINITY
• RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI) means RocketModem IV,
RocketPort Universal PCI, RocketPort Plus Universal PCI, RocketPort Plus/
422 Universal PCI, and RocketPort Universal PCI SMPTE
The paths in this Guide to locate DeviceMaster software and documentation point
to the DeviceMaster RTS paths on the ftp site. All supported DeviceMasters
(
Products Supported) models use the same software and documentation.
6 - Products Supported RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Downloading the Latest Software and User Guides
You can use the CD or the following tables to locate the latest version of the
software and documentation for the appropriate product.
• RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY (below)
• RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI) on Page 8
Overview
RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY
The following tables provide a quick reference to locate and download the latest
software and documentation.
Software or Document Description
The device driver supports:
• Windows 7
Device Driver
• Windows Server 2008
• Windows Vista
• Windows Server 2003
• Windows XP
User Guide for Windows
(this Guide)
This User Guide supports all Comtrol adapters in
the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
Bootable Diagnostics
You can download and create a bootable Diagnostics
CD if you cannot locate the CD shipped with your
product.
Comtrol Utility
You can use the Comtrol Utility to test or monitor
ports. The Comtrol Utility includes Test Terminal
and Port Monitor.
RocketPort EXPRESS
User Guide
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
RocketPort EXPRESS
SMPTE User Guide
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
RocketPort INFINITY
User Guide
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Downloading the Latest Software and User Guides - 7
Overview
RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI)
The following tables provide a quick reference to locate and download the latest
software and documentation.
Software or Document Description
The device driver supports:
•Windows 7
Device Driver
• Windows Server 2008
•Windows Vista
• Windows Server 2003
•Windows XP
User Guide for Windows
(this Guide)
This User Guide supports all Comtrol adapters in
the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
RocketPort Universal PCI, RocketPort Plus/
Bootable Diagnostics
422 Universal PCI, and RocketPort Universal
PCI SMPTE:
You can download and create a bootable Diagnostics
CD to test your adapter.
Bootable Diagnostics
RocketModem IV:
You can download and create a bootable Diagnostics
CD to test your adapter.
Comtrol Utility
You can use the Comtrol Utility to test or monitor
ports. The Comtrol Utility includes Test Terminal
and Port Monitor.
RocketPort Universal PCI
User Guide
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
RocketPort Plus
Universal PCI User
Guide
RocketPort Plus/422
Universal PCI User
Guide
RocketPort Universal PCI
SMPTE User Guide
RocketModem IV
Hardware Installation
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
This User Guide provides adapter and interface
installation procedures. It also provides information
about connecting serial devices.
This document provides adapter installation
procedures. It also provides basic AT commands
information.
8 - RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI) RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Overview
Device Driver Installation
This section discusses the following topics:
• Overview of the supported products
• Installation Setup Wizard
• Checking the Device Driver Version
• Updating the Driver
• Adding a
Use the following procedure to install the device driver for Windows for the
following Comtrol products using the Installation Setup Wizard:
• RocketModem IV
• RocketPort Universal PCI
• RocketPort Plus Universal PCI
• RocketPort Plus/422 Universal PCI
• RocketPort Universal PCI SMPTE
• RocketPort EXPRESS
• RocketPort EXPRESS SMPTE
• RocketPort INFINITY
Note: The above adapters are typically referred to as the RocketPort in this
If there is a device driver already installed on your system for the RocketPort, see
Updating the Driver
Page 26.
n Adapter (Existing Installation) on Page 26
section, unless there is model-specific information.
on Page 21 or Adding an Adapter (Existing Installation) on
on Page 16 for initial installation procedures
on Page 21
on Page 21
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Device Driver Installation - 15
Device Driver Installation
Caution
Installation Setup Wizard
You can use the following procedure to install the device driver and the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console, which is used to configure the driver.
1. Locate the latest driver assembly (.exe) for your product and copy it to a
location that is available to the host.
You can use one of the following methods to access the latest driver:
• Download the latest device driver
•The Software and Documentation CD contains all of the files for
2. Close any applications that are using serial ports before the device driver
installation.
3. Install the adapter and connect the interface (Quadcable, Octacable, or
interface box). If you need hardware installation procedures, see Downloading
the Latest Software and User Guides on Page 7) to locate the User Guide for
your adapter type.
Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface
type has been configured in the device driver. The RocketPort default
port setting is RS-232, except for SMPTE models, which are set to RS-
422.
4. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message appears.
for your adapter.
installation, configuration, and troubleshooting. The CD also provides
download links to the Comtrol ftp site to locate the latest files.
5. Start the installation by executing the appropriate .exe file for your adapter.
Driver assembly file names include the driver version number.
For example, RocketPort_RocketModem_Windows_x.xx.exe or
RP_EXPRESS_INFINITY_Windows_x.xx.exe, where x.xx is the driver assembly
version.
16 - Installation Setup Wizard RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Installation
6. Click Next to start the installation process.
Note: This screen shot displays a RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY
installation. The RocketPort Universal PCI series/RocketModem IV
installation displays as the RocketPort/RocketModem Installation
Setup Wizard.
7. Optionally, enter a different location to install the driver files.
Note: The RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI bus) default installation
location is Program Files\Comtrol\RocketPort.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Installation Setup Wizard - 17
Device Driver Installation
8. Click Install.
9. Leave the Launch RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY or RocketPort/RocketModem
Driver Installation box checked and click Finish.
If you do not check this box, you can use the shortcut under the Start button at
the location for your adapter type to start the driver installation:
• Programs> Comtrol> RocketPort EXPRESS INFINITY> Driver Installation
Wizard
• Programs> Comtrol> RocketPort> Driver Installation Wizard - RocketPort and
RocketModem (Universal PCI)
18 - Installation Setup Wizard RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
10. Click Next to install the driver.
11. Click Install and Next.
Device Driver Installation
12. Click Next.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Installation Setup Wizard - 19
Device Driver Installation
13. Click Proceed.
Note: The RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI) Driver Package is
displayed as RocketPort and the Device(s) display as RocketPort and
RocketModem Boards.
14. Click the Launch Comtrol Drivers Management Console button.
15. Return to the Installation wizard and click Close to exit the wizard.
16. Go to Configuring COM Port Properties
on Page 35 to configure the COM port
properties for RocketPort adapters or see Verifying and Testing RocketModem
IV Adapters on Page 35 to verify the RocketModem IV installation.
17. If desired, go to Configuring Device Properties
on Page 33 to set up advanced
device properties (device name and starting COM port number).
After driver installation and configuration, connect the serial devices to the ports.
For information about the RocketPort connectors, refer to the appropriate User
Guide (Page 7).
20 - Installation Setup Wizard RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Checking the Device Driver Version
Use the appropriate procedure for your operating system to check the Comtrol
device driver version using the Device Manager.
1. Access the Device Manager:
• Windows 7 and Windows Vista: Right-click Computer, click Manage, and
then highlight the Device Manager.
• Windows Server 2008 R2: Click Start, right-click Computer, and then click
Properties.
• Windows Server 2003: Right-click My Computer, click Manage, and then
click the Device Manager button.
• Windows XP: Not logged into a domain controller: Right-click My Computer,
click Manage, and then highlight the Device Manager.
• Windows XP: Logged into a domain controller: Right-click My Computer,
click Manage, and then click the Device Manager button.
2. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the Comtrol device
that you want to configure, and then click Properties.
3. Click the Driver tab to view the device driver version.
You can check this driver version against the latest driver
If necessary, you can update the device driver using the next subsection.
Device Driver Installation
for your product.
Updating the Driver
Use the following procedure to update the RocketPort device driver after initial
installation.
1. Locate the latest device driver assembly (Page 7) and copy it to a location that
is available to the host.
2. Close any applications that are using serial ports before the device driver
installation.
3. Start the update by executing the .exe file.
4. Click Next to start the Installation Setup Wizard.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Checking the Device Driver Version - 21
Device Driver Installation
5. Optionally, enter a different location to install the latest device driver files.
Note: RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI bus) default installation
location is Program Files\Comtrol\RocketPort.
6. Click Install.
22 - Updating the Driver RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Installation
7. Leave the Launch RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY or RocketPort/RocketModem
Driver Installation box checked and click Finish.
If you do not check this box, you can use the shortcut under the Start button at
the location for your adapter type:
• Programs> Comtrol> RocketPort EXPRESS INFINITY> Driver Installation
Wizard
• Programs> Comtrol> RocketPort> Driver Installation Wizard - RocketPort and
RocketModem (Universal PCI)
8. Click Next to update the driver.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Updating the Driver - 23
Device Driver Installation
9. Click Update and Next.
10. Click Next to update the driver.
24 - Updating the Driver RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Installation
11. Click Proceed.
12. Click the Launch Comtrol Drivers Management Console button to configure the
ports or device properties.
Note: The RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI) Driver Package is
displayed as RocketPort and the Device(s) display as RocketPort and
RocketModem Boards.
13. Return to the Installation wizard and click Close.
14. If necessary, go to Configuring COM Port Properties
on Page 35 to configure
the COM port properties for RocketPort adapters or see Verifying and Testing
RocketModem IV Adapters on Page 35 to verify the RocketModem IV
installation.
15. If desired, go to Configuring Device Properties
on Page 33 to set up advanced
device properties (device name and starting COM port number).
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Updating the Driver - 25
Device Driver Installation
Caution
Adding an Adapter (Existing Installation)
Use the following procedure to add an adapter to an existing RocketPort
installation.
1. Close any applications that are using serial ports before the device driver
installation.
2. Install the adapter and connect the interface (Quadcable, Octacable, or
interface box).
If you need hardware installation procedures, see Downloading the Latest
Software and User Guides on Page 7).
Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface
type has been configured in the device driver. The default port setting
is RS-232.
3. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message appears.
4. From the Start button, click:
• Programs> Comtrol> RocketPort EXPRESS INFINITY> Driver Installation
Wizard
• Programs> Comtrol> RocketPort> Driver Installation Wizard - RocketPort and
RocketModem (Universal PCI)
26 - Adding an Adapter (Existing Installation) RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Installation
5. Click Next to start the Comtrol Driver Installation Wizard.
6. Click Install and Next.
7. Click Next and follow the Installation Wizard. Refer to Step 11
on Page 19, for
the remainder of the installation steps if needed.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Adding an Adapter (Existing Installation) - 27
Device Driver Installation
28 - Adding an Adapter (Existing Installation) RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Configuration
This section discusses the following topics:
• Using the Comtrol Drivers Management Console
• Configuring Device Properties
• Configuring COM Port Properties
Using the Comtrol Drivers Management Console
This subsection discusses basic Comtrol Drivers Management Console operations,
such as:
• Accessing the Comtrol Drivers Management Console
• Displaying All Installed Devices
• Expanding the View
• How to Configure Device Properties
• Customizing the Device Name
• Customizing the COM Port Name
• How to Configure COM Port Properties
• How to Save Changes
See Configuring Device Properties
your adapter.
on Page 28
on Page 31
on Page 32
on Page 27
on Page 29
on Page 32 to start configuration procedures for
on Page 27
on Page 34
on Page 28
on Page 29
on Page 30
Accessing the Comtrol Drivers Management Console
Displaying All Installed Devices
Accessing the Comtrol Drivers Management Console can be done using one of the
following methods:
• Windows Control Panel; go to your Control Panel and click on the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console.
• Shortcut; located under Start> Program Files> Comtrol>
- RocketPort [RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI)]> Comtrol Drivers
Management Console
- RocketPort EXPRESS INFINITY >Comtrol Drivers Management Console
The Comtrol Drivers Management Console opens and displays all products for
which a device driver was installed.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Device Driver Configuration - 27
Device Driver Configuration
Expanding the View To view a device or devices under a product family, click the + in the Tree View
pane to open the selected family.
How to Configure Device Properties
This overview discusses changing device properties for a product. Highlight the
device name of the product that you want to configure in the Tree View pane. Make
any necessary changes.
•Click Apply to save the changes, which saves the changes and leaves the
Comtrol Drivers Management Console open.
•Click Ok to save the changes and close the Comtrol Drivers Management
Console.
•Click Cancel to close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console without saving
the changes.
If you click a port or device name without saving the changes, the Comtrol Drivers
Management Console will prompt you to Apply, Ignore, or Cancel the changes.
For more information, see Configuring Device Properties
on Page 32.
28 - Expanding the View RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Configuration
Customizing the Device Name
Change the default Device Name on the Device General tab by changing the name
in the User-Friendly Device Name field and saving the change.
Customizing the COM Port Name
Change the default Port Name on the Port Settings General tab by changing the
name in the User-Friendly Port Name field and saving the change.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Customizing the Device Name - 29
Device Driver Configuration
How to Configure COM Port Properties
To change a port’s properties for a product, highlight the port of the product that
you want to configure in the Tree View pane. Make any necessary changes:
•Click Apply to save the changes, which saves the changes and leaves the
Comtrol Drivers Management Console open.
•Click Ok to save the changes and close the Comtrol Drivers Management
Console.
•Click Cancel to undo the changes and close the Comtrol Drivers Management
Console.
If you click another port or device name without saving the changes, the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console will prompt you to Apply, Ignore, or Cancel the
changes.
For more information, see Configuring COM Port Properties
on Page 34.
After saving the port changes, if desired, you can click Apply These Settings to All
Ports to populate the remaining ports with these COM properties.
30 - How to Configure COM Port Properties RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Configuration
How to Save Changes
The Comtrol Drivers Management Console indicates that changes have been
made on this screen with a red frame that identifies which device’s General tab you
are editing.
•Clicking the Apply button saves the changes on the tab and leaves the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console open for further configuration.
•Clicking the Ok button saves the changes on that tab and closes the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console.
•Clicking the Cancel button cancels the changes on that tab and closes the
Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A How to Save Changes - 31
Device Driver Configuration
RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI) Device General Tab
RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY Device General Tab
Configuring Device Properties
Use the following procedure to change device settings on an adapter
1. Open Comtrol Drivers Management Console (Accessing the Comtrol Drivers
Management Console on Page 27).
2. Highlight the adapter device name that you want to configure.
32 - Configuring Device Properties RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Configuration
3. If desired, change the User-Friendly Device Name.
4. If desired, set a Starting COM Port
number value.
5. If this is RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI), optionally, pick a different
Scan Rate (ms)
(Page 33).
6. Optionally, click Verbose Event Log if you want to log additional RocketPort
information into the event log.
7. After making your changes, click Apply if you have additional configuration
procedures or click Ok if you have completed configuring your Comtrol devices.
Note: If you do not Apply the changes, you will be prompted to Apply, Ignore, or
Cancel the changes.
The following table provides detailed information about Device General tab options
for the RocketPort.
Device General Tab Description
This is the default name assigned by the driver and it
Device Name
cannot be changed. You can use the User-Friendly Device
Name field to provide custom device names for your
installation.
User-Friendly Device
Name
Use this field to enter a more descriptive name. The name
that you assign is not saved until you click Apply or OK.
You can change the starting COM port number in the drop
list for this adapter.
In addition, you can use Starting COM Port to set
nonsequential starting COM port numbers for each
adapter, thus leaving gaps in the COM port numbering
Starting COM Port
Number
sequence.
When you change the starting COM port number, the
driver assigns that COM port to the first port on this
adapter and all other port numbers follow in sequence.
Do not overlap COM port numbers between devices or
other adapters because if you do so, the overlapping ports
are disabled.
Typically, you should leave the scan rate set to the default
Scan Rate (ms)]
(RocketPort/
RocketModem
(Universal PCI))
Default = 10ms
value (10 ms) for most applications. To adjust latency for
time-critical applications, select a longer or shorter
interval from the droplist, or type in the rate (2 to 50). If a
value larger than 50 is entered, the maximum of 50 is
implemented.
Note: The faster the scan rate (lower number), the higher
the load on the system processor.
Verbose Event Log
Default = Disabled
Save Configuration
Selecting this option causes detailed messages to be sent
to the operating system Event Log. This added information
can be useful when debugging communications and
configuration problems
Click Save Configuration
to save the Device Settings for
use on another similar Comtrol device or to archive a copy
of your environments settings.
Click to Load Configuration
to load the Device Settings
previously saved using the Save Configuration feature.
Load Configuration
Note: You cannot a load configuration file from different
models. For example, you cannot load a
configuration file for a RocketModem IV on a
RocketPort EXPRESS or RocketPort Plus/422
Universal PCI.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Configuring Device Properties - 33
Device Driver Configuration
Caution
RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI) Port General Tab
Device General Tab Description
Ok
Cancel Cancels any changes made on this page.
Apply
Configuring COM Port Properties
This section discusses COM port configuration procedures for RocketPort ports. If
you want to change the starting COM port number on the RocketPort, see
Configuring Device Properties
If your application does not set COM port properties, use the Device Manager to
access Ports (COM & LPT) to change the port parameters. If the application sets
COM port properties, those settings take precedence over Windows COM port
settings. The exception to this guideline is if you use the Override and Lock Baud
Rate to option.
Use the following procedure to change COM port settings on a RocketPort
ports.
Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface
type has been configured in the driver. The driver default port setting
is RS-232.
1. Open Comtrol Drivers Management Console (Accessing the Comtrol Drivers
Management Console on Page 27).
2. Highlight the appropriate RocketPort.
3. Highlight the first port you want to configure.
Click Ok to save the changes made on this page and close
the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
Click Apply to save the settings on this page. If you do not
click Apply before leaving this page, you will be prompted
to Apply or Cancel the changes.
on Page 32.
port or
34 - Configuring COM Port Properties RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Configuration
RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY Port General Tab
4. RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY, select the appropriate communications
mode.
5. Enable the features that you want to use.
Note: You can use the “What’s this?” help or refer to the following table
for
information about each option.
6. RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY, select the Use Fast (Low Latency) Data
Transfer option when receiving or sending small blocks of data.
7. Optionally, click the RTS Toggle Options
button:
• If your communications application does not toggle FTS when transmitting
in RS-485 mode.
• If you are using an
external RS-232 to
RS-485 converter,
which is attached to
a port that is
configured for RS-
232.
a. Click the
appropriate options
for your
environment.
b. Click OK to save
the changes and
return to the port
General tab.
8. If desired, click the Clone check box to set all of the ports on this Comtrol
device to these characteristics.
9. Optionally, change the User-Friendly Port Name.
10. If desired, select a different COM Name (COM port number). The drop-down
list displays (in use) next to COM port numbers that are already in use in this
system. Do not duplicate COM port numbers as this will cause the ports to not
function.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Configuring COM Port Properties - 35
Device Driver Configuration
11. Click Apply to save these changes.
Note: If you selected RS-422 mode, make sure that there is not a device
attached to the port and click Ok.
12. Highlight the next port that you want to configure and perform Steps 4
through 11.
The following table provides detailed information about the options on the port
General tab.
Port Settings
General Tab
RS Mode
(RocketPort
EXPRESS/INFINITY)
Override and Lock
Baud Rate to
Default = None
Description
Use this drop-down list to select the communications mode
for the serial device that you will be connecting to this port.
• RS-232 (default RocketPort EXPRESS, RocketPort
INFINITY, RocketPort Universal PCI, RocketPort Plus
Universal PCI, and RocketModem IV)
• RS-422 (default RocketPort EXPRESS SMPTE,
RocketPort Plus/422 Universal PCI, and RocketPort
Universal PCI SMPTE)
• RS-485 Mode provides these choices:
- RS-485 2-wire (half-duplex) supports transmit and
receive data. When data is transmitted, the
Transmit Enable signal is activated, and the
Transmit Receive device switches from receive to
transmit automatically.
- RS-485 4-wire Master (full-duplex master) supports
transmit and receive data, which means both
signals are always active. The RocketPort
EXPRESS/INFINITY is enabled by the Transmit
Enable signal. This mode is the same as RS-422.
- RS-485 4-wire Slave (full-duplex slave) supports
transmit and receive data. When data is
transmitted, the Transmit Enable signal is
activated, the Transmit device goes active and
starts sending data. When the data is not being
sent, the Transmit device is inactive. The Receive
device is always active.
If you click RS-485, you may need to change settings in the
RTS Toggle Options
screen.
The default value is RS-232 for most RocketPort EXPRESS/
INFINITY models. The RocketPort EXPRESS SMPTE
default value is RS-422.
Note: The RocketPort/RocketModem (Universal PCI) RS
Mode is controlled by the attached interface.
This option allows you to lock selected ports.
You can select a value from the drop-down list or enter an
appropriate value from the following standard baud rates:
300, 600, 1200, 1800, 2400, 3600, 4800, 7200, 9600, 14400,
19200, 38400, 57600, 115200, 230400, 460800, or 921600.
The Quad/Octacable models support up to 921.6Kbps and
the 8/16/32-port models with an interface box support up to
460.8Kbps.
After locking a baud rate, no matter what baud rate is
selected in a host application, the actual rate used is the
rate specified here.
36 - Configuring COM Port Properties RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Device Driver Configuration
Port Settings
General Tab
RTS Toggle Options
Transmit Data
Timeout Port Close
Default = 0
Map CD to DSR
Default = Disabled
Map 2 Stop Bits to 1
Default = Disabled
Wait on Physical
Transmission before
Completing Write
Default = Disabled
Emulate Modem
Hardware RING
Signal
Default = Disabled
Block PnP search for
attached serial device
Default = Disabled
Description
This button opens the RTS Toggle Options popup, which
provides the following features:
• Override and Lock to RS-485 Toggle Mode
Use the Override and Lock to RTS Toggle Mode option to
lock the port in RTS (Request to Send) toggle mode,
then set the mode (low or high) as desired for RS-485
mode.
• RS-485 Toggle RTS Low
Use the RTS Toggle RTS Low option to toggle the RTS
output signal low during data transmission, which may
be needed for relay devices for RS-485.
If the option box is not checked, RTS is toggled high
(asserted) during data transmission for RS-485 mode.
• Defaults
Clicking the Defaults button returns all the values in
the RTS Toggle Options popup to their default state:
- Override and Lock to RTS Toggle Mode = Disabled
- RTS Toggle RTS Low = Disabled
This option allows you to select the length of time to wait
for data to clear the transmit buffer after a host application
has closed the port. This is typically used with serial
devices such as printers, to give the data sufficient time to
flush through the system.
This option is used in installations where there is no
connection to the port’s DSR input.
Click this check box to cause the CD input to appear as
DSR to the host application, and to perform hardware
handshaking with CD rather than DSR.
If your application is hard-coded to use two stop bits and
you receive framing errors, click this check box to map 2
stop bits to 1 bit.
Leave this check box blank to enable stop bits to pass
through unchanged.
This option forces all write packets to wait until the
transmit data has physically completed the transmission
before returning completion to the host application.
The default mode (check box not clicked) is to buffer the
data in the transmit hardware buffer, and return
completion as soon as the packet is in the buffer.
Click this check box to emulate the ring indicator signal.
If this box is checked and the port receives a RING signal
(or an alternate code, as defined in the AT command set for
the modem), it sends an RI signal to the communications
application.
This option disables plug and play from searching for a
device attached to the serial port.
For example, data received during device discovery on a
device is assumed to be a mouse to plug and play.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Configuring COM Port Properties - 37
Device Driver Configuration
Port Settings
General Tab
Clone: Apply all the
settings to all ports
Default = Disabled
Use Fast (Low
Latency) Data
Tran sfer
(RocketPort
EXPRESS/INFINITY)
Default = Disabled
User-Friendly Port
Name
COM Name
Defaults
Default = Disabled
Description
If this check box is not clicked, changes apply to the selected
port only.
If this check box is clicked, changes apply to all ports on
this board.
Use this option when you need to send or receive a small
block of data on RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY adapters.
You can enter a custom COM port name to identify this
RocketPort in the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
The COM Name drop list allows you to renumber this COM
port. If you see a COM port number followed by (in use),
this means that Plug and Play sees those COM port
numbers in use by another device.
If you rename the port to a COM name used by another
port, a dialog appears indicating that the port is already in
use.
Click the Defaults button to return to the driver default
values.
38 - Configuring COM Port Properties RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
If you have not done so, install the RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI)
device driver using the Installation Setup Wizard, Device Driver Installation
Page 15.
This section discusses the following RocketModem IV topics:
• Verifying the Modems Installed
• Testing the Modems
• Testing RocketModem IV Ports
Verifying the Modems Installed
To verify that the modems were detected and installed, perform the following
steps:
1. Access the Windows Device Manager.
• Windows 7 and Windows Vista
then highlight the Device Manager.
• Windows Server 2008 R2
Properties.
• Windows Server 2003
click the Device Manager button.
• Windows XP:
Not logged into a domain controller: Right-click My Computer, click Manage,
and then highlight the Device Manager.
Logged into a domain controller: Right-click My Computer, click Manage,
and then click the Device Manager button.
on
on Page 40
on Page 42
: Right-click Computer, click Manage, and
: Click Start, right-click Computer, and then click
: Right-click My Computer, click Manage, and then
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters 35
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
2. Click the Modems folder, the modems should appear as shown below.
3. Highlight one of the modems and select Properties.
4. Check to see if the Microsoft Plug-N-Play has installed the modems in the
correct order.
• If the order of the modems is not important, then you can go to Testing the
Modems on Page 40.
• If the modems were in the order you would like them to be in, use the
procedure below to reinstall the modems.
5. Configure the RocketModem IV ports to disable Plug & Play detection of serial
ports.
a. Open the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
b. Click one of the ports.
c. Check the Block Plug-N-Play Search for Attached Serial Device box.
d. Check the Apply These Settings to All Ports box.
36 - Verifying the Modems Installed RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
e. Click OK.
6. Go to the Control Panel and click Phone and Modem.
7. Select the Modems tab.
8. Select the modems you want to remove (most likely you will want to remove all
of the modems).
9. Reboot the system.
10. After rebooting, return to the Control Panel and click Phone and Modem.
11. Select the Modems tab.
12. Select Add and Ok.
13. In the Add New Modem Wizard, check Don’t detect my modem; I will select it
from a list.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Verifying the Modems Installed - 37
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
14. Click Have Disk.
15. Browse to \Program Files\Comtrol\RocketPort, highlight CTMAPORT.inf, and
click Open.
38 - Verifying the Modems Installed RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
16. Highlight Comtrol RocketModem IV V.92 and click Next.
17. Select Selected ports, choose the COM port you want to associate with this
modem, and click Next.
18. Select Finish then repeat this procedure for every modem you want to install.
19. Make sure you select the right COM port for each modem so they will be in
order.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Verifying the Modems Installed - 39
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
Testing the Modems
You can use the following procedure to test modems.
1. Access the Windows Device Manager.
• Windows 7 and Windows Vista
then highlight the Device Manager.
• Windows Server 2008 R2
Properties.
• Windows Server 2003
click the Device Manager button.
•Windows XP:
Not logged into a domain controller: Right-click My Computer, click Manage,
and then highlight the Device Manager.
Logged into a domain controller: Right-click My Computer, click Manage,
and then click the Device Manager button.
2. Click the Modems folder, select one of the modems and chose Properties.
: Right-click Computer, click Manage, and
: Click Start, right-click Computer, and then click
: Right-click My Computer, click Manage, and then
40 - Testing the Modems RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
3. Select the Diagnostics tab.
4. Click Query Modem.
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Testing the Modems - 41
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
5. The modem should respond to several commands issues by the Query
command.
6. You can click View log to see all of the responses to the Query command.
7. Repeat the Query Modem command for each of the modems to verify that they
respond.
This tests the ability for the device driver to communicate through the COM
port or ports to the RocketModem IV and receive an intelligent response from
the modem.
If this test fails, run the bootable RocketModem IV Diagnostics from a CD or
bootable floppy diskette. If necessary, you can download the bootable
Diagnostics from ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/RM4_diag.htm
Testing RocketModem IV Ports
You can test the RocketModem IV using a terminal emulator such as the Comtrol
Corporation’s Test Terminal (Wcom2) program or Hyperterminal. The following
procedure shows using Test Terminal.
1. If necessary, install Test Terminal, Installing the Comtrol Utility
2. Stop all applications that may be accessing the ports such as RRAS or any
faxing, or production software. See the appropriate help systems or manuals
for instructions on stopping these services or applications.
If another application is controlling the port, then Test Terminal will be unable
to open the port and an error message will be shown.
3. Sta rt Test Terminal (WCom2), from the Start menu, select Programs > Comtrol
> Utilities > Test Terminal (WCom2).
.
on Page 53.
42 - Testing RocketModem IV Ports RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
4. Select File > Open Port, the
appropriate port (or ports)
from the Open Ports dropdown list and click Ok.
5. Type AT and press Enter.
All further commands should
be followed by a (CR) (carriage
return or Enter).
You should see a response of
OK.
a. If you do not see the AT
but you see the OK, type
AT E 1 .
b. Type AT again.
You should then see the
AT and the OK.
6. Type AT DT and a telephone number of a convenient phone.
You should observe the phone ringing. This shows that the RocketModem IV is
capable of going Off Hook and dial a number.
7. Dial the telephone number of a modem you want to test.
The word Ring should appear on the WCom2 screen each time the phone
rings.
a. Type ATA to answer the call.
You should hear the modem try to synchronize with the telephone. If you
are not using a modem to try to connect with the RocketModem IV, you will
not be able to proceed further.
b. Hang up the phone.
8. Type +++ in WCom2 to return the modem to command mode. You will get an
OK response.
9. Type AT H0 to hang up the modem.
This completes the RocketModem IV testing.
10. You are now ready to configure your communications application according to
the operators manual and test the modems and phone lines using your
application.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Testing RocketModem IV Ports - 43
Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
44 - Testing RocketModem IV Ports RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Using Configuration Files
The Comtrol Drivers Management Console supports saving configuration files,
which provides:
• Back-up for existing configurations
• Ability to configure multiple of the same devices with the same configuration
parameters
Note: Configuration files must be for the same model with the same port density.
For example, you cannot load a RocketPort EXPRESS configuration file
onto a RocketPort EXPRESS SMPTE or a configuration file for a 32-port
RocketPort INFINITY onto a 4-port RocketPort INFINITY.
Configuration files are saved with a .DCF extension.
Saving Configuration Files
Use the following procedure to create and save a configuration file.
1. After configuring the device and ports, click Save Configuration.
2. Optionally, change the default file name and click Save.
Loading a Configuration File
Use the following procedure to load a configuration file for your device. You must
have previously saved a configuration file before you can load a configuration file.
1. In the left pane, click the device that you want to load the configuration file
upon.
2. Click Load Configuration.
3. Browse to the location of the configuration file that you want to load.
4. Highlight the configuration file and click Open.
The configuration file will load in a few moments.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Using Configuration Files - 51
Using Configuration Files
52 - Loading a Configuration File RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Removing the Adapter and Driver
This section discusses:
• Removing a RocketPort from an installation without removing the device
• Removing the Device Driver
Removing a RocketPort
Use the Device Manager if you want to remove a RocketPort from the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console. You will need to close the Comtrol Drivers
Management Console before you can remove a RocketPort.
You can use the appropriate discussion, to locate the procedure for your operating
system.
• Windows 7 and Windows Vista
• Windows Server 2008 R2
• Windows Server 2003
• Windows XP on Page 54
Note: Administrative privileges are required to remove device drivers on Windows
driver from your system
and Adapter from your system
7, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Vista.
Windows 7 and Windows Vista
Windows Server 2008 R2
Windows Server 2003
You can use this method to access the Device Manager to remove a RocketPort
from the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
1. Close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
2. Right-click Computer.
3. Click Manage and highlight Device Manager.
4. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry.
5. Right-click the RocketPort that you want to remove and click Uninstall.
6. Windows Vista
the system on the last (or only) device.
You can use this method to access the Device Manager to remove a RocketPort
from the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
1. Close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
2. Click Start, right-click Computer.
3. Click Properties.
4. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the RocketPort that you
want to remove and click Uninstall.
You can use this method to access the Device Manager to remove a RocketPort
from the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
1. Close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
2. Right-click My Computer, click Manage.
users should click the check box to remove the software from
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Removing the Adapter and Driver - 53
Removing the Adapter and Driver
3. Click the Device Manager button.
4. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the RocketPort that you
want to remove and click Uninstall.
Windows XP You can use the appropriate method to access the Device Manager to remove a
RocketPort from the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
Not logged into a Domain Controller
1. Close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
2. Right-click My Computer.
3. Click Manage and highlight the Device Manager.
4. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the RocketPort that you
want to remove and click Uninstall.
Logged into a Domain Controller
1. Close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console.
2. Right-click My Computer, click Manage, and then click the Device Manager
button.
3. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the RocketPort that you
want to remove and click Uninstall.
Removing the Device Driver and Adapter
Use the following procedure to remove the RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY
device driver.
1. From the Start button, click the appropriate shortcut for your adapter:
• Programs>Comtrol>RocketPort EXPRESS INFINITY>Driver Installation
Wizard
• Programs>Comtrol>RocketPort>Driver Installation Wizard - RocketPort and
RocketModem (Universal PCI)
2. Click Next to start the Comtrol Driver Installation Wizard.
3. Click Remove All and Next.
54 - Removing the Adapter and Driver RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Removing the Adapter and Driver
4. Click Next to remove the driver.
5. Click Proceed to continue the driver removal process.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Removing the Adapter and Driver - 55
Removing the Adapter and Driver
6. Click the Reboot My Computer button or Close.
• If you click Close, make sure that you reboot the system and remove the
adapter to complete the driver removal.
• If you click Reboot My Computer, click Ok.
7. Shutdown the system and remove the RocketPort adapter.
8. If you want to totally remove the .exe driver assembly:
a. Delete any copies of the .exe driver assembly file residing on the system.
b. Delete the driver and devices using the Add> Remove Programs Control
Panel.
56 - Removing the Adapter and Driver RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
This section contains the following topics:
• Troubleshooting Checklist
• Comtrol Utility on Page 53
- Installing the Comtrol Utility
- Using Port Monitor (PMon2)
- Using Test Terminal
• Before Calling Technical Support
• Technical Support
Troubleshooting Checklist
If you are having trouble with a RocketPort installation, try the following.
Note: Most customer problems reported to Technical Support
on Page 53
on Page 55
on Page 58
on Page 63
on Page 64
are traced to cabling
or network problems.
Issue Troubleshooting
Correct cabling?
Correct Port
Addressing?
Comtrol Drivers
Management
Console?
Verify the
Hardware?
Test the Port or
Ports?
Is this the Latest
Driver?
Verify that you are using the correct types of cables in the
correct places and that all cables are tightly connected.
Refer to the appropriate RocketPort User Guide on the CD or
download the latest
Verify that you are addressing the port correctly. In many
applications, device names above COM9 require the prefix
\\.\ to be recognized. For example, to reference COM20, use
\\.\COM20 as the file or port name.
Verify that the RocketPort has installed using the Comtrol
Drivers Management Console to confirm that the adapter
displays. Install the device driver, if the adapter is not
displayed.
Run the bootable diagnostics.
• The RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY is shipped with a
bootable CD that executes the hardware diagnostics. If
you cannot locate the CD, you can download and burn
the bootable Diagnostics CD.
•You can download and burn
for the RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI).
The appropriate RocketPort User Guide provides procedures
about running the Diagnostics.
Install the Comtrol Utility (Page 53) and use Test Terminal
(Page 58).
See Checking the Device Driver Version
version (Page 7) to verify cabling.
a bootable Diagnostics CD
on Page 21.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Troubleshooting and Technical Support - 51
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Issue Troubleshooting
Port Does Not
Open?
Monitor Port
Activity?
Enable Verbose
mode
1. Open the Device Manager.
• Windows 7 and Windows Vista
: Right-click
Computer, click Manage, and then highlight the
Device Manager.
• Windows Server 2008 R2
: Click Start, right-click
Computer, and then click Properties.
• Windows Server 2003
: Right-click My Computer,
click Manage, and then click the Device Manager
button.
•Windows XP:
Not logged into a domain controller: Right-click My
Computer, click Manage, and then highlight the
Device Manager.
Logged into a domain controller: Right-click My
Computer, click Manage, and then click the Device
Manager button.
2. Double-click Ports (COM & LPT) to expand the view.
Comtrol ports are displayed in the Device Manager,
accordingly:
• DeviceMaster ports are Comtrol NS-Link ports
• RocketPort EXPRESS/INFINITY are Comtrol
RocketPort Unity ports
• RocketPort and RocketModem (Universal PCI) are
Comtrol ports
If a yellow exclamation mark represents the port, right-click
on the exclamation mark, and click Update Driver. See
Updating the Driver
on Page 21 for detailed procedures.
Install the Comtrol Utility (Page 53) and use Port Monitor.
You can optionally enable the
Verbose Event Log option on
the Device General tab for diagnostic purposes to initiate
longer messages to be sent to the Event Log for your
operating system. The added information can be useful
when debugging communications and configuration
problems.
Access the event log through the Administrative Tools Event
Viewer option.
52 - Troubleshooting Checklist RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Comtrol Utility
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
The Comtrol Utility Package is innovative software for serial port communication,
testing, monitoring and reporting for the RocketPort families.
The Comtrol Utility Package contains three useful software applications named
Test Terminal, Port Monitor, and Peer Tracer for communicating directly,
monitoring, and reporting statistics of any COM, RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485
serial ports you have installed in a system.
The Comtrol Utility Package supports the following operating systems:
• Windows 2000
• Windows XP
• Windows Server 2003
• Windows Vista
• Windows Server 2008
• Windows 7
The Comtrol Utility is available on the Software and Documentation CD or you
can download the latest version from: ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/utilities/windows/
comtrol_utility.
This subsection discusses the following topics:
• Installing the Comtrol Utility
• Using Port Monitor (PMon2)
• Using Test Terminal
on Page 58
on Page 53
on Page 55
Installing the Comtrol Utility
Use the following procedure to install the Comtrol Utility package.
1. Execute the Comtrol_Utility_Package_x.xx.msi file, where x_xx is the Comtrol
Utility version number.
2. Click Next.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Comtrol Utility - 53
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
3. Click Next.
4. Click Install.
5. Click Finish.
It is not necessary to
reboot the PC after
installation.
6. Go to Using Port Monitor
(PMon2) on Page 55 or
Using Test Terminal
on
Page 58 for procedures on
using these applications.
Note: See Verifying and
Testing
RocketModem IV
Adapters on Page
35 to test
RocketModem IV
ports.
54 - Installing the Comtrol Utility RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Using Port Monitor (PMon2)
Testing Comtrol COM Ports
This procedure will check whether the RocketPort can:
• Communicate through the RocketPort device driver
• Determine if a port is open with an application
If necessary, use Installing the Comtrol Utility on Page 53 to install Port Monitor.
1. Start Port Monitor, from the Start menu, select Programs > Comtrol > Utilities >
Port Monitor (PMon2).
2. Click Add Ports using the icon or Tools > Add Ports,
3. Click Driver, the appropriate
product (or products), and click
Ok.
• RocketPort EXPRESS/
INFINITY: click
ROCKETPORT INFINITY
• DeviceMaster: click RPSHSI/
NSLINK
• RocketPort and
RocketModem (Universal
PCI): click ROCKETPORT
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Using Port Monitor (PMon2) - 55
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
4. If the RocketPort is communicating with the device driver for Windows, Port
Monitor should display CLOSED status. If a port is open for an application, it
displays as OPEN, and displays Actual Throughput, TxTotal and RxTotal
statistics.
Normally, there should be no data errors recorded or they should be very
small. To find out what the actual errors are, scroll to the right. You will see
three columns: Overrun Errors, Framing Errors, and Parity Errors.
If the errors are:
• Overrun Errors represent receive buffer overflow errors. If this is the case,
you will have to configure either software or hardware handshaking to
control the flow of data. The most common errors are Overrun errors.
• Framing Errors indicate that there is an synchronization error between the
beginning of a data frame and the end of the data frame. A frame usually
consists of a start bit, 8 data bits, and a stop bit or two. The framing error
occurs if the stop bit is not detected or it occurs in the wrong time frame.
Most causes for framing errors are electrical noise on the data lines, or
differences in the data clocks of the RocketPort and the connected device.
• Parity Errors occur when parity is used and the parity bit is not what is
expected. This can also be caused by noise on the data lines.
5. You can view additional statistics to Port Monitor by adding columns. Click
Tools and Add Columns.
56 - Testing Comtrol COM Ports RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
6. Highlight or shift-click to add multiple statistics and click Ok.
Note: See the Port Monitor help system if you need an explanation of a
column.
7. Scroll to the right to view the new columns.
8. If you want to capture this session, you can save a current session as a report.
To do this, select one of the following save options:
• File > Save As
• File > Save - if the report already exists in an older format
• Save Active Session button
Reports can be opened, viewed and re-used when needed. To open and view a
report:
a. Select File > Open or the Open Existing Session button. The Open
Session dialog appears.
b. Locate the session (table), you want to open and click the Open button.
Optionally, if you want to continue monitoring for an existing session, you
need to activate the Polling Interval.
• Select Tools > Settings to access the PMon2 Settings dialog
• Change the Polling Interval field to a value other than zero (0)
9. Leave Port Monitor open so that you can review events when using Test
Terminal to test a port or ports.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Testing Comtrol COM Ports - 57
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Using Te s t Te rminal Test Terminal (WCom2) allows you to open a port, send characters and commands
to the port, and toggle the control signals. This application can be used to
troubleshoot communications on a port-by-port basis.
Note: See Verifying and Testing RocketModem IV Adapters
on Page 35 to test
RocketModem IV ports.
• Send and Receive Test Data: This sends data out the transmit line to the
loopback plug, which has the transmit and receive pins connected thus
sending the data back through the Rx line to Test Terminal, which then
displays the received data in the terminal window for that port. This test is
only testing the Tx and Rx signal lines and nothing else. This test works in
either RS-232 or RS-422 modes as both modes have transmit and receive
capability. A failure in this test will essentially prevent the port from working
in any manner.
• Loopback Test: This tests all of the modem control signals such as RTS, DTR,
CTS, DSR, CD, and RI along with the Tx and Rx signals. When a signal is
made HI in one line the corresponding signal line indicates this. The Loopback
Test changes the state of the lines and looks for the corresponding state
change. If it successfully recognizes all of these changes, the port passes.
A failure on this test is not necessarily critical as it will depend on what is
connected and how many signal lines are in use. For example, if you are using
RS-232 in 3-wire mode (Transmit, Receive and Ground) a failure will cause no
discernible issue since the other signals are not being used. If the port is
configured for use as either RS-422 or RS-485 this test will fail and is expected
to fail since RS-422 and RS-485 do not have the modem control signals that
are present in RS-232 for which this test is designed.
The following procedures require a loopback plug to be placed on the port or ports
that you want to test. A loopback plug was shipped with your RocketPort. If you
need to build a replacement or additional loopback plugs, refer to the appropriate
User Guide for your Comtrol device. See Downloading the Latest Software and
User Guides on Page 7, if you need to build loopback plugs.
Opening Ports The following procedure shows how to use Test Terminal to send and receive test
data to the serial ports. If necessary, use Comtrol Utility
on Page 9 or PortVision
Plus on Page 13 to install Test Terminal.
1. Stop all applications that may be accessing the ports such as RRAS or any
faxing, or production software. See the appropriate help systems or manuals
for instructions on stopping these services or applications.
If another application is controlling the port, then Test Terminal will be unable
to open the port and an error message will be shown.
2. Sta rt Test Terminal (WCom2), from the Start menu, select Programs > Comtrol
> Utilities > Test Terminal (WCom2).
58 - Using Test Terminal RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
3. Select File > Open Port, the
appropriate port (or ports)
from the Open Ports dropdown list and click Ok.
Note: If you left Port Monitor
open from the previous
subsection, you should
show that the port is
open.
Go to the next procedure to send
and receive test data.
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Sending and Receiving Test Data (RS-232/422 and RS-485: 4-Wire)
You can use this procedure to send and receive test data through the port or ports
that you want to test.
1. If you have not done so, perform Steps 1
through 2 on Page 58.
2. Install the loopback plug onto the port (or ports) that you want to test.
See Downloading the Latest Software and User Guides on Page 7 if you need to
build loopback plugs.
3. Select Port > Send and Receive Test Data.
You should see the
alphabet scrolling
across the port. If so,
then the port installed
properly and is
operational.
Note: If you left Port
Monitor
running, it
should show
data sent and
received and
show the
average data
throughput on
the port.
4. Select Port > Send and
Receive Test Data to stop
the scrolling data.
5. You can go to the next
procedure to run the Loopback Test on Page 60 if this is an RS-232 port.
If this test successfully completed, then the port is operational as expected.
Note: Do NOT forget to restart the communications application.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Sending and Receiving Test Data (RS-232/422 and RS-485:
4-Wire) - 59
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Loopback Test (RS-
232)
Sending and
Receiving Data (RS485: 2-Wire)
The Loopback Test tests the modem control (hardware handshaking) signals. It
only has meaning in RS-232 mode on serial connector interfaces with full RS-232
signals. If performed under the following conditions, the test will always fail
because full modem control signals are not present:
•RS-422
•RS-485
• RJ11 connectors
Use the following steps to run the Loopback Test.
1. If necessary, start Test Terminal (Page 58, Steps 1
through 2).
2. Click Port > Loopback Test.
This is a pass fail test and will take a second or two to complete. Repeat for
each port that needs testing.
If the Loopback Test and the Send and Receive Test Data tests successfully
complete, then the port is operational as expected.
This procedure shows how to use Test Terminal (WCom2) to test two RS-485 (2wire, half-duplex) ports.
1. Sta rt Test Ter minal.
2. Open two ports RS-485 ports. This example uses COM40 and COM41.
60 - Loopback Test (RS-232) RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Test Terminal will open two windows, note that both ports show Receiving on
the status bar.
3. Right-click both COM windows and remove the check mark for Receive.
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Sending and Receiving Data (RS-485: 2-Wire) - 61
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Both COM ports show Ready on the status bar.
4. Right-click in ONE window and select the Receive option from the pop up.
5. Right-click the OPPOSITE window and click Send.
The Status line shows Sending or Receiving.
In this case, COM40 is sending data and COM41 is receiving the data which is
visually confirmed by the data scrolling across the COM41 window.
Note: If you do not see the data being received it MAY be necessary to also
disable the RTS and DTR options from the right-click pop-up menu in
each COM port.
6. Right-click and remove the check mark on the Sending COM port.
62 - Sending and Receiving Data (RS-485: 2-Wire) RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
7. Right-click and remove the check mark on the Receiving COM port.
Neither COM port is sending or receiving data but shows Ready on the Status
bar.
8. Reverse the sending/receiving windows one at a time. Set the Receive option
first, then in the opposite window, select the Send option.
The Status line shows Sending or Receiving in the reverse windows.
Data is now scrolling in the COM40 window. COM41 is static as it is not receiving
data but transmitting data.
Before Calling Technical Support
Comtrol has a staff of support technicians available to help you. You should review
Troubleshooting Checklist on Page 51 before calling Technical Support. If you call
for Technical Support, please have the following information available.
Adapter type
Adapter serial number
Driver part number and
revision or version
Server computer make,
model, and speed
Other serial port adapters
installed in the server and
their COM port numbers
Devices connected to the
adapter
Item Information
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Before Calling Technical Support - 63
Troubleshooting and Technical Support
Technical Support
If you need technical support, contact Comtrol using one of the following methods.
Support http://www.comtrol.com/pub/en/Support
Downloads ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/default.htm
Web site http://www.comtrol.com
Phone
Contact Method Corporate Headquarters
763. 957.6000
CST: 8AM-6PM (Excluding US Holidays)
64 - Technical Support RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
Configuring Non-Plug and Play Devices
After installing the hardware and driver for Windows operating systems, you can
use this discussion to configure non-plug and play COM ports.
Installing Non-Plug and Play Devices
Use the following procedure to install non-plug and play devices.
1. If you have not so yet, connect the device to a RocketPort port and turn on the
device.
2. Open the Control Panel.
3. Go to the appropriate subsection to install non-plug and play modems or
printers:
• Installing Modems
• Installing Printers
Installing Modems Use the following procedure to install non-plug and play modems.
1. If you have not done so yet, connect the modem (or modems) to the desired
RocketPort port (or ports) and turn on the modem (or modems).
Note: This may take a few minutes, depending upon your system and the
number of modems you are installing.
2. Open the Control Panel and click the Phone and Modem Options icon.
3. Click the Modems tab.
4. Click Add.
5. Click Don’t detect my modem. I will select it from a list and then click Next.
6. Click an appropriate modem model and then click Next.
Note: If you have a driver from the modem manufacturer, click Have Disk and
browse to the location of the driver. If your modem is not listed, go to the
modem manufacturer’s web site and download the appropriate driver.
7. Highlight the port or ports on to which you have connected modems.
8. Click Finish to complete the modem installation.
9. Configure modem properties as necessary. For assistance, use the Windows
help system.
To use this modem or modems with RRAS, you can refer to the Comtrol RRAS
Configuration Overview for Windows XP document.
on Page 79
on Page 80
RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A Configuring Non-Plug and Play Devices - 79
Configuring Non-Plug and Play Devices
Installing Printers Use the following procedure to install a non-plug and play printer.
Note: If you want to install a plug and play printer, connect the printer to the
appropriate serial port and the driver should automatically install. If it
does not automatically install, use the following procedure as a guide with
the printer manufacturers documentation.
1. Open the Control Panel and click the Printers and Faxes icon.
2. Click Next when this screen appears.
3. Click the Local printer attached to this computer item.
4. Click the COM port that corresponds to the port to which the printer is
connected.
5. Click the Manufacturer, Printer type, and then click Next.
Note: If you have a driver from the printer manufacturer, click Have Disk and
browse to the location of the driver. If your printer is not listed, go to the
printer manufacturer’s web site and download the appropriate driver.
6. Optionally, enter a printer name and then click Next.
7. Click Ye s if you want to print a test page.
8. Click Finish to complete the installation.
9. Close the Printer and Faxes Control Panel.
80 - Installing Printers RocketPort Series/RocketModem IV Driver User Guide: 2000564 Rev. A
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