Colorado Time - Tips & Tricks
     
 

System 6 & Vista? Absolutely.

With the release of Microsoft’s new operating system Windows Vista earlier this year, questions have arisen concerning compatibility with the System 6. Will people purchasing new computers suddenly find that they cannot connect their computer to the System 6? The answer is a resounding “no.”

Not only is the System 6 compatible with Windows Vista, it is compatible with any operating system. Since the System 6 uses protocol that has proven successful for decades, it can communicate with any operating system; in fact, the System 6 is not even aware of what kind system it is connected to.

If you are using a USB to COM port adaptor, as described below, you must be using one with drivers that are compatible with your computer’s operating system.

Instructions for connecting CTS Timers (System 6 or 5) to Meet Management Computers

There are two methods to connect your meet management computer to your timing console (System 5 or System 6).

  • RS-232 9-pin: If your meet management computer has a built-in RS-232 9-pin connection, you will simply connect a 9-pin straight through RS-232 cable from the built-in 9-pin connection of your meet management computer to COM 1 of the timing console.
  • USB to COM port adaptor: If your meet management computer does not have a built-in RS-232 connection, you will have to use the USB connection on the meet management computer in conjunction with a USB to COM port adaptor to pass the meet information to COM 1 of the timing console. This adaptor can be found at most computer supply stores. Install the USB-to-COM port adaptor according to the manufacturer instructions, making sure that the manufacturer-supplied device drivers are loaded into the meet management computer’s operating system to insure proper operation. Your meet management software should choose the correct COM port settings. If it requires you to choose the settings, these settings are: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, odd parity, 1 stop bit and no flow control.

Keep in mind that when the meet management software asks you which COM port you are using it is in reference to the COM port of the meet management computer and not in reference to the COM port of the timing console, which is always COM 1.
 

 

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