V-Bar Handheld Programmer Issue

[j2m]

Got one of these at 3DM. Only problem is, the lead from the programmer doesn't match the interface connector on my V-Bar unit. My V-Bar is about a year old - did they change the connector recently? If so, is there a way I can connect the handheld programmer to my V-Bar. Real bummer. I was so looking forward to not having to use a PC

[Dynamic]

without telling us what connectors are on your unit and programmer we can't tell.

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:TPOi49Qxqx0J::www.hitech-solutions.com/images/products/PS2_Serial.jpg
This is a DB9 serial connector and would be used to connect to the old vbars

http://www.made-in-china.com/image/2f0j00cvNTGomynapWM/USB-AM-to-Mini-USB-5PIN-Cable.jpg
This is the new style cable for the vbar...USB to the computer and Micro USB into the vbar.

They are BOTH just serial connectors however and you can convert from the old to new with a convertor cable /extension

http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/sc/30116964-2-200-0.gif
MicroUSB to DB9 convertor cable
http://www.thenerds.net/MICRO_INNOVATIONS.Micro_Innovations_USB_to_Serial_ Adapter.USB610A.html?affid=1&affid=2&srccode=cii_5784816&cpncode=17-14863931-2

[Timnic39@yahoo.co.uk]

j2m,

I too bought one of these units and, like you, have an old VBAR unit and have the same connection problem.

The importers of MIkado, FLIGHTPOWER, have told me there is no suitable cable to connect the units. Furthemore, there are no plans to make such a cable and the only way is to buy the new VBAR box when it is available!

I find this information most disappointing as I have been constantly told that my my old units would work with the new LCD Control Panel.

Best wishes,

Tim

[Dynamic]

http://www.runryder.com/helicopter/gallery/1611/100_0344.jpg
That is an OLD v-bar


having a base background in computer I can say I'd be VERY suprised if you could not not convert the signal to work.

the USB cable has
1 VCC Red +5 V
2 D- White Data -
3 D+ Green Data +
4 ID none permits distinction of Micro-A- and Micro-B-Plug Type A: connected to Ground Type B: not connected

Now if you were to use a usb to ps2 convertor you would get
VDC +5V
Data-
Data+
Ground

Serial communications are the most simple of any computer based signaling system. To think that it would be "impossible" to convert the signal is ridiculus. Mikado may not have a cable to specifically do this, or may not want to have to support people trying to do this, but it can totally be done.

Your got a 5v wire, a data in, data out, and a ground....its not so complex that it could not be overcome with a little bit of cable wiring or purchasing some converters..

[Timnic39@yahoo.co.uk]

Thank you for your comments, Dynamic.

My old style V-bar box has a socket on the top for "interface" connection which is a six pin socket. The cable supplied with the new control panel has a plug on each end for 4 wires side by side. One end fits into the control panel without difficulty, but what about the V-bar box end?
Have you any idea where such a cable could be obtained or suitable adaptors?

Thanks again.

Best wishes.

Tim

[Dynamic]

can you take a picture of you interface connector so I can see it...then I'll be better equipped to tell you what you need.

[Timnic39@yahoo.co.uk]

Thank you Dynamic.

If I can work out how to do it I will post a picture for you.

Tim

[j2m]

I posted about this issue on RR as well. Heliplanet.de kindly gave me the following information. If you follow the link, you'll find a circuit for a converter. Fine if you're willing to pick up a soldering iron. I really think Mikado should make a converter available!

"Two remarks to this:

- the CP will be compatible with the last VStabi. The Version with the mini USB on Board.

- if you have a older Unit with serial connector you can built a converter from serial to usb. Read about ist here: http://vstabi.de/wiki/index.php?title=Pinning it is the same as needed for use of an new BT module at an old VStabi."

[Timnic39@yahoo.co.uk]

j2m,

I am very interested to read your post.

Unfortunately I could not tackle the wiring in the diagram, it is way over my head.

Like you I think Mikado should make a converter lead. I feel particularly disappointed as I have 2 old style vbar boxes and was always assured that the CP would be backward compatible. Do you think Mikado read this forum?

Best wishes.

Tim

[j2m]

I think they do read this forum but, for reasons that don't make sense to me, decided not to make the handheld compatible with the older (=vast majority) of V-Bar units. the required circuit is pretty simple for anyone with some electronics capability - just hope someone comes to the rescue!

[0KEWL]

Guys,

please have a look into this: http://vstabi.de/wiki/index.php?title=Pinning
At the bottom of the page under "Adapter to use a new BT Modules at the old VBar" you find a small circuit which is required to have the new handheld connected to the 1st version VBar only having a serial port not USB.

Hope this helps.

Regards
Lars