Batboard

Some of our radios are mid power XTL5000 with 03 HHCH. We just bought new PC's with USB only ports (e.g., they don’t have the older RS-232 serial port). The HKN6184 USB programming cable apparently will only work for mid power XTL5000 radios with the 05 CH. It appears one must use the HKN6163 USB cable that terminates into a 26-pin male plug that mates with the radio’s rear J2 VIP acc connector. I don't understand why the USB programming cable can plug into a high power XTL via its GCAI TIB connector on the front of the radio chassis, but yet with a mid power XTL, you're forced to go through its rear 26-pin acc connector. Go figure...

Anyways, here is my question: Can you use the RS-232 serial port programming cable with an IOGear serial to USB adaptor, and connect this to the mid power XTL5000 via its GCAI TIB connector, with an 03 HHCH? Will this work, while the direct USB cable without the serial to USB converter cord will not work?

I called Motorola Tech Support, and they didn't know, saying I'd have to open up a GCC. BTW, it says in the CPS Help section (ASTRO 25 CPS V15.00) that the IOGear USB/serial port adaptor is acceptable, as a general rule.

FYI, I’m a bit hesitant to experiment with this, as I don't want to brick it out any radios, or corrupt my new PC’s registry. That’s why I’m hoping someone else here may know what’s up with this.

Thanks, in advance, for any help on this!

They'll probably read/write just fine, I don't believe I would try to flash update one with the adapter though.

I remember in one of the rebanding primer sessions they touched on this, our shop just ordered CF-30's, problem solved.

I wish I could be more help. Good luck....

The mid power remote flex/TIB doesn't supply USB on the GCAI connector because that's the way it was designed. If that somehow still boggles the mind, I'd suggest you give Motorola engineering a call and ask them exactly why... or start digging around in the DSM.

If you want 100% peace of mind (not to mention no questions if you need support), stick with using the cables in their native form as intended. If you don't care, sure, a USB to serial adapter will very probably work for your day to day programming needs.

Thanks for all of your help on this, guys. Sounds like if we want to be bulletproof, the CF30 might be our best bet. Should have thought of this before buying the USB only machines, but, Oh, well...