Calling All Geeks, Need Help With Consult Cable Problem

[ashr32]

hi i just purchased a CONSULT cable to plug my laptop into my 1990 r32 gts-t but its not working.

I plugged the exposed pins from the cable into the plug and turned the key onto accessories.

I open the software(scantech_nissan) and clicked on ECU FINDER. It runs through a number of strings searching for the ECU but doesn’t find anything. I have also tried 2 different com ports also as im using a serial to USB converter. I know my cars port works because my mechanic used it last week. I have also tried with the car running and 3 other applications e.g. conzult ect. I’m a technical support trainer for an internet provider so I have a good understanding of computer based troubleshooting. At this point I’m of the thought that the cable or circuit board is faulty. Is there anything else I can try to diagnose the problem. Am I doing anything wrong or have I forgotten something?

here is i link to the cable and board i got from ebay

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NISSAN-ECU-...bayphotohosting

Thanks in advance

Ash

[S1R33]

hi i just purchased a CONSULT cable to plug my laptop into my 1990 r32 gts-t but its not working.

I plugged the exposed pins from the cable into the plug and turned the key onto accessories.

I open the software(scantech_nissan) and clicked on ECU FINDER. It runs through a number of strings searching for the ECU but doesn’t find anything. I have also tried 2 different com ports also as im using a serial to USB converter. I know my cars port works because my mechanic used it last week. I have also tried with the car running and 3 other applications e.g. conzult ect. I’m a technical support trainer for an internet provider so I have a good understanding of computer based troubleshooting. At this point I’m of the thought that the cable or circuit board is faulty. Is there anything else I can try to diagnose the problem. Am I doing anything wrong or have I forgotten something?

here is i link to the cable and board i got from ebay

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NISSAN-ECU-...bayphotohosting

Thanks in advance

Ash

hey mate, im a computer techy

i had a similar problem connecting a laptop to a microtech LTX-8, we were using a PCMCIA to serial converter, these are better than the USB convertes as they create a full hardware serial port but the microtech didn't like it, in the end we had to get another laptop with a inbuilt serial port. Are you possibly from darwin, if you are then i could give ya a hand setting it up.

[RANDY]

So if you're using the above link... it's got that USB to serial adapter.

First thing to check is to have your device manager open when you plug the usb-end in. Make sure you see an extra com-port detected. Note the com-port numer (probably 3), and then check your consult software for com port settings. Make it match!

From memory, mine has to be on ignition or running for the software to find the ECU. If I turn the engine off at any time, I have to go back to ignition and wait for it to redetect the ECU. Also, have the consult end plugged in before you plug the USB end in, and make sure the software is completely exited before all of that. Sometimes usb-serial converters come with backround software that locks up, so reboot your laptop if it works, but then stops working while you're mucking around.

Man.. that cable looks super-dodgy! It's an ATX mainboard power plug with pins sticking out of it. Nasty! At very least, i'd get the genuine plug from Mearcat and rewire it.

I got the blaztbits (or whatever) cable. It's a modular, inline usb to consult cable. The componentry is sealed within the cable itself... very neat! Cost $100 plus shipping.

[skybarge]

Yeah I've made the mistake of buying the same cable :S

It's ultra crap, I've bought a USB adapter for it, I've got mine partially working, but not totally.

It's an ATX cable, I miht get the circuit diagram and post info on how to make it, it'll save everyone paying $60 for it

the software they send is only a trial version too, available here:

http://eformance.info/consult129.zip

It's only a trial too, all for the ripoff price of $68 USD :S

But oh well, it's only to get my timing running and idle proper, I think I'll have to start saving for a PowerFC

[evesdropping]

That looks dodgy as. And it's more expensive than the ones that Newkleer sells on here. His look the goods too.

[NewKleer]

"sold" is more accurate than "sells", since there's no more available! better to stick to blazt ones rather than DIY ebay jobs, unless you have

that circuit is calumsult one, calum on sr20forum made those DIY kits which were supposed to be "DIY", not to be whored on ebay by someone trying to make a buck off someone elses work.

http://www.sr20forum.com/rom-ecu-tuning-fi...tester-box.html

answer these:

what com port is ur usb/serial adaptor?

what brand is it?

what drivers are you using? where did you get them from?

are you using that com port in any programs you're trying out?

have u tried other consult software? (ecutalk, tecu, calumsult?)