FAQ

How can I learn to use DDUtil?

The best way to learn DDUtil is to read the Design and Setup sections and then refer to the How_To section for specific items of interest. Also, questions can be asked on the DDUtil Yahoo Group forum.

I Lost My Settings

There are only two (2) options.

1. Manually re-enter your settings
2. Follow the procedure(s) on the Backup page.

DDUtil crashes on start up, what do I do?

Generally, there can be two (2) reasons for this.

1. The user settings file is corrupted.
   • Follow the procedure(s) on the Backup page.
2. Com0Com has a port name that starts with something other than COM.
   • Open the com0com Configuration Manager and correct the offending port name(s) so ALL begin with COM.
   • Make sure the enable buffer overrun check box IS checked for each port of each pair.

What is a Virtual Com Port?

These ports are RS232 serial ports that live only in the PC. DDUtil uses these ports to talk to other software programs and the Flex radio. You will need a set of these for each piece of software you want DDUtil to communicate with. VSP Manager is the first choice for a Virtual Serial ports program.

Where can I get VSP Manager?

You can get VSP Manager here.

How can I get rid of Zombie/Orphan Serial Ports

• Use the original program (and version) that installed the ports.

• If the above method fails or can't be used, the the Orphan/Zombie virtual serial ports will have to be removed manually.

Note: → These instructions must be followed exactly to achieve success.

1. Press the Start button
2. Select Run (Windows7 users skip this step)
3. Type cmd.exe in the textbox and click OK
4. Type set devmgr_show_nonpresent_**devices=1 and hit ENTER
5. Type cd\windows\system32 and hit ENTER
6. Type start devmgmt.msc and hit ENTER
7. When the device manager opens, click the View menu
8. Click Show Hidden Devices
9. Click on the + sign next to Ports to see the full list of Com ports being used.
10. Highlight the port you wish to delete and then press delete.
11. Accept when asked if ok to delete
12. Repeat steps 10 & 11 for any other ports you wish to delete.

Will DDUtil work with any other transceiver?

No, DDUtil was written specifically for the Flex family of radios.

Will DDUtil work with my equipment?

Probably, so far i haven't found any equipment that DDUtil won't operate. If the equipment will track frequency/band changes DDUtil has several modes (BCD, CI-V, RS232) to communicate with it.

What is a Passive Listener?

A Passive Listener is a device that receives data from DDUtil but, does not talk back to DDUtil. This type of device can be an SteppIR controller, Palstar AT-AUTO antenna tuner, band switches, Linear Amplifiers and many others.