M4 to laptop connectivity problems

[RWDKurt]

Hi, I have an early M4 ECU (serial number 9595 460), with the correct lead but with adapters to convert serial port to USB. I'm trying for the first time to connect to the ECU via an oldish laptop (32bit). Having tried the latest version of software (6.2?), I eventually got the ECU to 'see' the laptop only to get a message saying that my ECU is running an older version of the software. Having now switched to the older version (5.1), the option to assign a comm port seems unavailable and the laptop and ecu no longer connect.

Is there a way I can install the latest version into my ECU without losing my maps, or is there another solution to this problem?

Thanks in advance

Kurt

[RWDKurt]

Problem solved for now by finding someone with an ancient laptop complete with serial port, which works with version 5.1 of software.

I would still like to know if the software can be upgraded to the latest version without affecting the map.

Thanks

Kurt

[MarkMc]

You should always make sure 6.2 was the last version to be installed on the laptop this will make sure it uses the latest communications software. The 6.2 comms will work with any older version of software but the first statement always applies...so yes, if you keep installing older version on the laptop you will keep having to instal 6.2 afterwards.

[RWDKurt]

Thanks Mark. So are you saying I can update the ECU from version 5.1 to version 6.2 (via the laptop) without affecting the maps?

Kurt

[MarkMc]

Depends on the M4, if it has a serial number above 3000 you can do it easily, if the serial number is below 3000 you need a special adaptor as well as a PCI cable.

What were were talking about is the comms to use differnent ports. To talk to an M4 with version 5.1 software AND using, say, comm port 4 you need to make sure the laptop itself had 6.2 installed last, i.e. after 5.1......5.1 still works as normal but the 6.2 comm software is the latest on the laptop. If you had 6.2 installed and THEN installed 5.1, the 5.1 comms software overwrites the 6.2 stuff and kills the ability to choose comm ports.