Hi folks,
I'm trying to download my custom rotary snow plow train sound files into one of the pusher locomotives, but my computer isn't able to connect to my LokProgrammer.
I have used my Lokprogrammer successfully in the past to do exactly what I am trying to do now. All that has changed is that I have replaced the LokSound V5 decoder with a LokSound V5 Micro decoder and I have installed a Scale Sound Systems speaker. I know that the decoder is working because I tested it and I got the generic diesel sounds that are programmed into the decoder. The decoder is not the problem.
When I hook up my LokProgrammer I'm getting a message that the computer is not detecting it. The LokProgrammer has power, and when I plug it into the USB port the computer beeps so it is recognizing that something is there.
I have tried restarting the computer with the LokProgrammer both connected and disconnected. I have tried disconnecting and reconnecting the LokProgrammer. I have uninstalled and reinstalled the LokProgrammer software. I'm still getting the same message.
Any suggestions?
Cheers!!
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
Is this the same computer?
Has the operating system been changed or upgraded to a newer version?
There are reports that Windows11 has issues with the USB/Serial dongle. Your best bet is to visit the LokSound email list on Groups.io.
Loksound@groups.io
I would suspect the dongle, unless you have Win11. Some people have no problems with Win 11 and some have no success.
If you solve your problem, be sure to update the Lokprogrammer software before tackling the V5
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
Seems a lot of people are having troubles with Locksound these days, reminds me of the early days of DCC decoders, which is not a good thing.
Hi betamax,
Nothing else has changed. It is the same computer with Windows 10. There have been some updates to Windows 10 so those might be the culprit.
One thing I haven't done is backdate the computer to a previous restort date. I'll give that a try tonight.
Hi Henry,
Problems with my dongle eh!?! Sounds rude!
I'll have to do some research. I'm not familiar with the term.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Turns out that I have a dongle but I don't think it has anything to do with the LokProgrammer not being detected. In fact, it isn't doing anything. It was used for a wireless mouse which I hated. I just never bothered to pull the dongle out of the USB port when I stopped using the mouse.
By the way, why is a wireless mouse still called a mouse? It's missing its tail. Shouldn't it be called a mole?!? Sorry, couldn't resist.
Problem solved thanks to a couple of very knowledgable chaps on the ESU forums.
For whatever reason, the LokProgrammer had de-selected the USB Com Port (I hope I'm getting the terms correct). With no port selected the computer couldn't 'talk' to the programmer.
Those 'specialty' forums can be particularly helpful for the types of issues that you encountered.
Rich
Alton Junction
hon30critter Problem solved thanks to a couple of very knowledgable chaps on the ESU forums. For whatever reason, the LokProgrammer had de-selected the USB Com Port (I hope I'm getting the terms correct). With no port selected the computer couldn't 'talk' to the programmer. Cheers!! Dave
So what did you have to do to fix the issue? Inquiring minds need to know.
Pete.
Hi Pete,
wrench567 So what did you have to do to fix the issue? Inquiring minds need to know.
I am a computer dinosaur so my explanation is a little vague.
The LokProgrammer needs to have a Com Port selected so the computer can recognize it. For whatever reason, the LokProgrammer no longer had a Com Port selected. As soon as I chose a USB Com Port in the LokProgrammer program the problem was solved.
If you want a more detailed explanation let me know. I will set up the LokProgrammer again and identify the exact location of the Com Port selection window.
Here are some hints from the 'mothership' (or Mutterschiff if you prefer):
https://www.esu.eu/en/support/tips-tricks/lokprogrammer-software-v4/lokprogrammer-installation/
Good Luck, Ed
Okay. Just in case mine messes up some day. Knock on wood.
Thanks Fellas.
gmpullmanHere are some hints from the 'mothership'
Hi Ed,
Thanks for sharing those instructions.
Am I naive or is ESU reqiring us to take an extra step when setting up the LokProgrammer? I don't recall having to select a Com Port on any other devices I have installed.
Sometimes when you plug something into a computer, the program will recognize it automagically. But not always. I've had the same problem off and on with Decoder Pro. It will work fine for a few months, then for no apparent reason it stops working. Often as not, checking the port setting in the program solves the problem.
wjstix"automagically"
I would call it 'black magic'. How appropriate for Halloween!
If you haven't gotten the joke, read Stix's word again.
Almost everything is plug and play these days, havent had to select a port in forever for other stuff.