Manufacturers of satellite receivers periodically release updates to the software of their equipment, fix errors in it, and improve performance or add some new features.
In order to update the firmware of the device, you must first download it to a personal computer, and then connect the receiver to a PC and restart the program. A null modem cable is used to connect the computer to the satellite signal receiver. If you do not have such an interface, it can be purchased at computer stores, however, these products are not always there. In any case, you have a choice: look for a ready-made solution or make a null-modem cable yourself. The latter option will cost much less.
How to make a null-modem cable RS 232?
For its manufacture, we need a four-core cable (the length is determined by the user) and two connectors of the RS 232 type (“mother”). These connectors can be found in any radio store, they are very popular, as they are present in almost every personal computer as a COM port. A twisted pair cable can serve as a cable . To do this, twist together each of the cores and get four conductors. Next, you need to solder the connectors. In this case, it is necessary to prevent accidental closure, as this will lead to equipment failure. Such a null modem cable Will work stably with wire lengths up to 50 meters.
Spike recommendations
This instruction is not mandatory, but it is tested by practice:
1. It is not recommended to cut off excess conclusions at the connector.
2. The connection of the connector housings is necessary for relieving stress, since the housing is touching the device. Otherwise, there is a risk of burning the COM interface on the computer or receiver. This connection is optional if all equipment is grounded.
3. It is preferable to use a shielded cable, as it works better.
4. All satellite tuners use only three pins.
5. In some receiving devices there is no MAX232 chip (it is assumed that it will be in an external adapter). In such devices, four outputs are used on the receiver's COM port, but the same three contacts are on the adapter output. Therefore, before connecting a null modem cable, you need to study the documentation for your device in detail, you may first need to attach an adapter.
6. In some tuners, pins 2 and 3 on the connector are interchanged. In this case, you need a straight cable, not a crossover cable. In order to determine what type of connector is on your receiver, you should study the documentation for it.
7. It is recommended to use a multicore cable, as it is more resistant to mechanical stress. It is better to fill the soldered contacts with silicone in order to avoid short circuit.
Wiring the RS232 null modem cable
In the COM interface, only three contacts and the connector body should be soldered. In such a cable, it is necessary to use 2, 3 and 5 contacts. In the direct version of the null-modem cable, these contacts are soldered equally in both connectors, and in the cross 2 and 3 they are interchanged.