USB to Serial Converter Driver Problem

[checkitout]

Hello All - I have a problem that I am sure is not unique and am also sure that ppl here may be able to help.

A mate of mine gave me a USB to Serial converter recently however he had lost the driver software for it.
Unfortunately the device has no markings or numbers anywhere on it.

If I plug it into my computer or laptop it gets recognised as a device (I think as a "USB Human interface" device).
The default WinXP drivers/software does not bring up the device as a Serial com port either.

I have looked around on ebay and it seems that there are many "el cheapo" USB to serial converters that look exactly the same... but all have different drivers.

So my question here is how can I identify this device and get the right driver from the internet somewhere.

What would be really great would be some type of interrogating software like Dr Hardware, that could ID the device without any drivers being loaded before hand.

Any Ideas ..... Please help !

[hoe]

pull it apart and see what chip is in it.

google a generic driver for that chip.

[covert]

Use a usbsnooping program and check the vendor and product ID. I have no idea how to do this under Windows. If you have linux run usbview to check it. Then google the vendor/product id.. easy

[checkitout]

Thanks So Much -

The USB device is sealed in a plastic mould that looks like a clear blue resin.
I bet if I pull it apart the chip details may have been removed on purpose, not to mention I will likely kill the thing.

I do not use linux so as to be able to use usb view. (that is another project)

Googled "windows USB snooper" and there seems to be a few programs available and have tried a couple with no real success yet.

I am hoping I have not corrupted my PC here with the shit programs I think I have just installed.

Anyone know of a good Windows USB Snooper program they can recommend !!!

[LeroyPatrol]

If you are planning on using it with 'sat' apps then forget it. You can't beat a 'real' comm port.

Leroy

[vk6xlr]

The USB device is sealed in a plastic mould that looks like a clear blue resin.

I have similar. Not blue but brown. This one is made by ATEN and works well on all serial applications I have used.
Try a search for UC-232A drivers and see how you go.

[checkitout]

Thanks everyone - It is not specific for use with Sat Interfacing -

I have this USB driver identification issue with other devices as well over time and I feel licking this with a USB snooper will apply for other items as well - e.g. I had a memory stick that was useless as it also could not be identified.

Please .... does anyone have a good windows based USB sniffer program that they can recommend.

[fandtm666]

aten are by far the best usb to rs232 cables, i have tried a few cheaper ones but all the others played up a bit and only the aten was and is stable

[covert]

This will do it for you.

When you run it you will have a list of your USB devices. Plug in your USB comm port thing and look it the new line created in the main window. The first column will have your vendor ID and Product ID. Just plugged in mine.

USB\Vid_067b&Pid_2303&Rev_0300 - Motorola Comp Modem

[checkitout]

Thanks Covert.

This has worked somewhat. I have been able to read that the device comes up with the following info:
"USB\Vid_04b4&Pid_5500&rev0000 USB Human Interface Device"

This does not help me much. I Googled the above and managed to find that Cypress Semiconductor is the manufacturer. Still could not find a driver anywhere.

Went a step further and cut through the case moulding to see the chip.
The numbers below come up "CY7C63723 - SXC 0405 A02 663306"

Searching on "CY7C63723" also points to Cypress Semiconductor, but still no where to find a driver to suit this USB to serial converter!!!

Does anyone have this driver or can they let me know where to best get this!!!

[hoe]

try here:

[checkitout]

Thanks Hoe

I have downloaded this and run the exe that looks like the driver file.

Now when I plug the device it comes up with "Hardware detected USB to Serial device" and eventually comes back with "Hardware ready to use"

I still can not find the Com port anywhere nor can I see it in the Control panel, system , hardware advanced etc.

Stumped again ... I give up.

[covert]

Stumped again ... I give up.

And it looked like you are getting so close.

[framtech]

hiya

try the following attachment it works for mine as is similar to what you described

rgds
james

[framtech]

first time used upload not sure if worked as cannot see attachment can someone advise

rgds

[covert]

first time used upload not sure if worked as cannot see attachment can someone advise

rgds

Use

[joezep]

framtech once upload is finished you will see a link copy that and post in your message

[framtech]

hiya

was half asleep when posting just tried and see what you mean thanks to both

link is below






rgds
james

[checkitout]

Thanks - I have tried this and it still is a problem.

Hey..... I think it is time for a hammer - I will smash the thing .... at least it will give me payback with some for the time I have wasted on it.

There are heaps of these on ebay with the matching driver - If I need it again I will order one of those making sure the driver is with it.

What a pain

Thanks everyone anyway....

[Kruts]

This sounds just like the one I bought. I have the original packaging and still there is no mention of developer/manufacterer. Not until you install the disk simply labeled 'SERIAL DRIVER' do you get the specifics.

In the start menu under 'Programs Files' --> 'PL-2303 USB-Serial Driver' is created.

The actual device name when the correct driver is used:
'Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port (COM3)'

And I did specifically buy this for SAT related apps. I'll be bummed if it doesn't work. I'll have to look into the ATEN adapter I guess.

Anywho, just my $0.02

-K