Using a USB to Serial adapter for FW update w/ Vista

[TommyV]

OK I would like to hear from people who have successfully used a USB to serial adapter/converter cable to update the firmware on their 10 or 15 series processor or AVR. I want to be able to use my laptop to do this update which is Vista 64bit. I am trying to update my RSP-1069

hifiguy Eric and Tim stated they use a Belkin adapter but it does not have drivers for Vista.

Is there anyone here who has had success with an adapter and is using Vista? I have found this one that looks the most promising. Cables Unlimted USB 2.0 to Serial DB9 Adapter

I have also read that there is an IOGEAR (GUC232A) that definitely does not work.

I do have an XP desktop that I could rig up to connect to my processor though if need be. Any help would be much appreciated!

[hifiguymi]

I have Vista on the laptop I use to do firmware updates with a Belkin adapter. It should come with a CD that has the drivers on it (at least mine did). I've never had problem with it except for speed updating a couple of Classe pieces.

Eric

[TommyV]

Hmm yea the 64bit thing seems to always add a monkey wrench. Don't ask me why cause I couldn't tell you but I do not know what is better about it, it only seems to create more compatibility issues.

The more I thought it would not be that hard to just use the network jack I have ran from my XP desktop to my A/V setup and do the update from there. I may just try that.

[mjb]

Hmm yea the 64bit thing seems to always add a monkey wrench. Don't ask me why cause I couldn't tell you but I do not know what is better about it, it only seems to create more compatibility issues.

I'm no expert, but as far as I understand, the only advantage the 64bit version has is it can access more than 6 gigs of RAM, allowing programs to work with really large files. If this is not you (ie, you don't even have more than 6 gig RAM), you don't need it.

As far as USB - RS232 adapters are concerned, I've always had great success with the keyspan adapters.

The RJ45 on the back of Rotel processors is NOT an ethernet connection, its RS232 only. You need a PC with RS232 (or an adapter), and Rotels RJ45->9 pin D cable.

[hifiguymi]

64bit Vista is only good for 64bit software which there isn't much out there. Most of the 64bit stuff is graphics based and video editing stuff. Standard 32bit software runs slower on a 64bit system than a 32bit systems. I don't know why so many computers come with 64bit standard when it's not needed.

Mike is right about the connector on the RSP-1069 (and all Rotel 10 Series for that matter) not being anything but an RS-232C connector.

Eric

[TommyV]

But it still uses an RJ45 jack. So I see no reason that the signal cannot be passed unchanged along the CAT 6 cable I have run to the back of my 1069. It is just like using an extension cord. No routers or switches. Same thing as if I got a DB 9 extension cable. I could even go with a Serial PCI card like this Rosewill Single Serial Port PCI Card Model RC-300 instead of the USB thingy.

Also on the 64bit thing, it was just what was installed on my HP notebook. When made the purchase, it was just the nicest 17" they had with BD Drive and all the goodies. It was a pre-built model so I did not pick and choose my options al la carte.

[hifiguymi]

That card should work fine.

I assumed you didn't pick the 64bit version on purpose. All I was saying is quite a few computers come that way and there is no need for it. It's just the way it is.

Let us know how the serial port add goes and if the firmware upgrades are successful.

Eric

[Kevin D]

Keep in mind the max length spec on RS232 is between 50 and 75 feet. If you're close to or over that, make sure you're getting feedback from the Rotel with no errors before trying the firmware.

Kevin D.

[TommyV]

Good info Kevin, thank you. They are in the same room and I made sure it was pretty snug when I ran it so it should be about 30 - 35 ft. If I do get any problems over the CAT 6 line I could just string a 15 ft serial extension across the room temporarily.

Edit: Another reason this will probably be easier as I could get everything at my local Fry's and if for some reason it is not working, I have 30 days to return. I do not want to go through ordering some adapter online, it not working then returning it and so on.

Edit II: I just realized also, I have an open slot open on my XP HTPC in the same cabinet. If it does not make it cumbersome for the PC and processor to use the same screen during the update, I could just install it with that and skip the whole extension cord.