MJLJ V3 - Can't connect to Computer

Tony B. · Post by **Tony B.** » Tue Jan 04, 2011 12:44 pm

Time to ask for help !!

I have a MJLJ V3 bought with a non running motor, I am anxious to "save" the current Map. I understand from the previous owner it has 3.2.1 firmware and I have 3.2.1 software.

I get timeouts trying to read ignition config. The PC is an old Dell laptop running XP Pro with a proper serial port. The MJLJ is powered by a PP3 (9v) battery. I have checked all 5v sources except the one under the square shiny "oscillator" as I only have the top off currently, all OK.
I tried to communicate using hyperterminal, no response, so I tried the port & lead on an old Garmin GPS & got a stream of data so it looks like the problem is with the MJLJ or the Software rather than the PC.

On the software, it is set to 4cyl., TPS, and Com1, 4800 baud. All Hyperterminal settings were also correct.

What can I check now ?. Alternatively is there another user in the West Midlands (UK) who has a working V3 PC set up that could at least check my unit for serial connectivity ?.

Hope someone can help, Thanks .... Tony

NITROPIXIE · Post by **NITROPIXIE** » Tue Jan 04, 2011 8:06 pm

Hi Tony,

I was just in the West Midlands at Xmas and New Year, parents live in Shrewsbury.

First of all I would try it with another computer with a dedicated serial port (most desktops have these). You can save the MJLJ configuration file onto a memory stick as they don't use up much space if the computer does not have access to the internet.

If the MJLJ talks to this computer then there would be a problem with your computer (probably the drivers)

If your MJLJ does not communicate then there could be a problem with your unit. You have proved your port by getting something else to communicate with it so it does seem to point at your unit at the moment. I have fixed a couple of these in the past and I can get it working for you again if you would like me too. There would be no charge for this.

Where abouts in the West Midlands do you live??

Ryan

Tony B. · Post by **Tony B.** » Thu Jan 06, 2011 1:05 pm

Hi Ryan, thanks for the reply. I was near Shrewsbury at that time as well. We have a holiday caravan at Marton nr. Welshpool. I was making sure no pipes had burst during the big freeze / thaw.

I will see if I can find a desktop at work with a serial port on it. Our home pc doesn't have one, hence the borrowed laptop. I work for an IT software company so most of the stuff has been changed and no longer has a serial port, my work laptop is Windows 7 as well !.

I live in Redditch, about 30 miles south of Birmingham. I have no idea if the MJLJ is stll working, the previous owner said it was good, hence my desire to get the map off it at least. Northampton Motorsport used the previous owners laptop to map it so they don't have a copy. I won't be in a position to install the engine (Ford 1700cc Crossflow) for a couple of months as it came from a Caterham & is going in a Mk1 Escort Mexico (different sump plus other bits n pieces).

If I can find another PC, I will certainly try the MJLJ with Hyperterminal at first. I bought a PP9 powerlead and butchered an old ATX power supply connector so I can very easily power it up now.

Tony