Connecting a Caesar black box to Xentry 2014 can be challenging. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to troubleshooting connection issues, drawing from a user’s experience and offering potential solutions. The user successfully installed Xentry 9.2014 on a Dell E5500 laptop with a native serial port, configured to COM2 at 115000 baud rate. However, the connection to the Caesar black box consistently drops upon entering DAS.
Troubleshooting Caesar Black Box Connection Issues with Xentry 2014
The user performed a Caesar test, yielding the following results: successful hardware detection, valid user authentication, and passed system checks. Despite this, the connection remains unstable. The results indicate that the Caesar device is recognized on COM2 but with a baud rate of 19200, differing from the configured 115000. This discrepancy may be a contributing factor to the disconnection issue.
Furthermore, the test reveals a battery voltage of 11.8V and an ignition voltage of 0.3V. The low ignition voltage suggests the vehicle may not be properly powered on, potentially affecting communication with the black box.
Several troubleshooting steps were attempted:
- Applying Patches and Blacklist Fixes: The user applied necessary patches and blacklist fixes, even manually implementing them. However, the connection problem persisted.
- Modifying BIN Files: The user replaced the bin files for D2, D, and T configurations with the calfix872 versions, a common fix for compatibility issues. This also did not resolve the problem.
- Changing COM Port and Baud Rate: Modifying the COM port in BIOS and experimenting with different baud rates proved unsuccessful.
- Switching Configurations: Using the D2 configuration allowed the process to advance one screen further, prompting manual data selection. However, only voltage readings were obtained, with no other unit data accessible. The T configuration resulted in the unlock icon changing to locked, followed by an error.
Possible Solutions:
- Verify Cable Connections: Double-check all cable connections between the black box, the OBD-II port, and the laptop’s serial port. Ensure proper seating and that no pins are bent or damaged. The user mentioned a “box in the middle” of the RS232 cable, which requires further clarification as it is not a standard configuration.
- Confirm Correct Baud Rate: Investigate why the Caesar test reports 19200 baud rate while Xentry is configured for 115000. This mismatch could be the root cause. Try setting Xentry to 19200 baud rate to see if it resolves the issue.
- Ensure Sufficient Power Supply: The low ignition voltage (KL15) suggests a potential power issue. Ensure the vehicle’s ignition is switched on correctly or consider using an external power supply to provide stable voltage to the black box.
- Update Caesar Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause compatibility problems. Check for firmware updates for the Caesar black box and apply them if available.
- Consult Xentry/DAS Documentation: Refer to the official Xentry and DAS documentation for specific troubleshooting steps related to Caesar black box connectivity. They may provide further insights into potential solutions.
Conclusion
Connecting a Caesar black box to Xentry 2014 can be a complex process. While the Caesar test results indicate successful hardware detection, the disconnection issue persists. By systematically checking cable connections, verifying baud rate settings, ensuring sufficient power supply, updating firmware, and consulting official documentation, users can troubleshoot and resolve connectivity problems.
