Frequently Asked Questions

Terminal Software Settings for MBC Devices

The adjustment menus on the Message Board Controller devices require a serial connection to a computer running terminal emulation software. HyperTerminal is usually the obvious choice for Windows users but it is no longer included with Windows.

HyperTerminal is available for download but it appears that the software is no longer free for private use. Users of Windows Vista and Windows 7 may be able to download and use an earlier version of the software.

Other programs are available that can be used in place of HyperTerminal. TeraTerm is a good substitute that is open-source and easily downloaded.

There are not many terminal emulation software options for Mac OS users. The few that exist and are actively supported by their authors are not free. The best option is probably to use minicom which has been ported from Linux. Naturally, minicom is a good solution for Linux users too.

HyperTerminal Settings

Some users have experienced a compatibility problem while trying to connect to the MBC-1 using the HyperTerminal program. The issue usually occurs when the HyperTerminal communications settings are set incorrectly.

HyperTerminal communication settings

Specifically, the 3-wire serial cable described in the documentation requires that “flow control” is set to either “none” or “software”, preferably none. The 3-wire serial cable does not provide the signals needed for hardware flow control.

Some computers compensate for this and work no matter what setting is used for flow control. Others do not work at all and the only solution is to use software other than HyperTerminal.

Tera Term Settings

Tera Term is open-source and is an easy, obvious option for Windows Vista and Windows 7 users. The default startup mode is for a telnet connection over IP so be sure to select "Serial" and choose the appropriate serial port.

Tera Term port selection

The default port settings are usually correct but if you need to adjust them select "Setup > Serial port..." from the menu.

Tera Term communication settings

Other Software

The settings to communicate with the Message Board Controller devices should be 9600, 8, N, 1 and flow control should be disabled if possible.