# Can't open port; in use

If you see this message, there is likely to be some other software that has used that port previously, and is now interfering.

## Serial Terminal Software

- If you are using other terminal software to communicate with your BASIC Stamp, such as StampPlot, Parallax Serial Terminal, or Hyperterminal, it may be holding the port open. Disconnect the port in the terminal software.

## Devices with Automatic Synchronization Software

If you have used a device such as a PDA with this computer, the device's software (such as Weatherbug or HotSync software) may be holding the port open.

- Check your computer's system tray to see if the device's software is enabled, and disable it temporarily.
- If disabling the software in the above step did not release the COM port, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the COM port (sounds scary but it isn't really).

- Unplug your programming cable from your computer.
- Open your Ports list and right-click on the port you want to uninstall.

Finding your Ports List in your computer's Device Manager

- Windows 2K : Start Menu > Settings > Control Panel > System > click Hardware Tab > Device Manager... > expand Ports (COM & LPT)
- Windows XP : Start Menu > right-click My Computer > Properties > click Hardware Tab > Device Manager > expand Ports (COM & LPT)
- Windows Vista or Windows 7 : Start Menu (Windows icon) > right-click Computer > Properties > Device Manager (left pane) > expand Ports (COM & LPT)

- Select Uninstall.
- Restart your computer.
- Reconnect your hardware and try the Run/Identify Test again.

## If the error persists...

- If this did not help, Contact Parallax Tech Support for assistance.

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BASIC Stamp Help Version 2.5.4

Copyright © Parallax Inc.

8/8/2012