Any one tried this from a laptop.Got the download, and the program, but it's failing on the comms. Anyone got data on the coms port settings etc.

Depending on which Humax model it is, you need a serial lead with a crossover IIRC.

Also Humax will send you an adapter free of charge for certain models, give their customer service team a call.

Have a read here http://forums.digita...ad.php?t=305410

Sorry- got an RS232 crossover cable, but still no joy. PC saying no see STB. iT'S SUPPOSSEC TO BE A SIMPLE JOB.

bump- cable new - anyone tried to get laptop to talk to STB.

You might want to ask here;

http://forums.digitalspy.co.uk/forumdisplay.php?f=119

or search for some existing info.

Actual error would help.

I assume you are using an RS232 cable with a DB9 connector.

Under the windows control panel there is a device manager which will list all COM ports present and possible baud rates (although the baud rate will need to match that of the device really, most semi modern drivers are configurable so you should be good).

Now, does your laptop have a native RS232 port or are you using a USD adaptor as that might be the cause of your problems. I have a mate who had a USB RS232 adaptor so it claimed. 1 major difference though. RS232 tends to use 12 volt signalling. His adaptor was using USB specced 5 volt signals.

As for switch cables, most adaptors now support swapping the TX and RX lines in the driver settings somewhere, shouldn't need thespecial cables as often anymore. Ethernet takes this further and higher end modems etc automatically make the switch for you  

Cable is a null modem (TX/RX cross) as specified . Speed is set as per the info on the Humax site. Reason I asked was that some time ago I had problems with lap tops and some comms systems. Makers ha no solution. It turned out to be IR settings . But not this time. Port is proper 9pin serial port .No error message, just a "trying to connect" mesage =same as if no connection . But no info on port settings from Himax .

Yes but is that serial port integrated to the laptop or an external USB model. Consider taking a multimeter to it (ask friends of you don't have one) and check it is kicking out 12 volts. Most laptops still having those ports are old so its possible the port has died, some USB adaptors suck. Does anyone else you know have a device you can try instead of your laptop? Got the right COM selected for your cable?

Edit wasn't responding:

Also, got any other cables or rs232 slaves. Can't rule out dodgy cables or dodgy humax.

I'm just about to get rid of my Humax box (PVR-9300T), it is running the latest software but it is still an unreliable piece of cr@p. It misses recordings quite often and as it's my second Humax box, I cannot justify spending money on another Humax product, DTR-T1000 for example.

Going to try one of Panasonics HD freeview boxes (DMR-HW220 or maybe DMR-PWT520), hopefully it will be more reliable.