# Run/Identify Test

This page will help you troubleshoot problems found after trying the Run/Identify test to verify the programming connection between your computer and BASIC Stamp. You should have already tried the common quick fixes and the Run/Identify test.

The Common Quick Fixes

- Loose connections : Double-check the connections between your computer and your programming cable, the Parallax USB to Serial Adapter if you are using one, and the development board.
- Misconnected BASIC Stamp : If you are using a Board of Education, double-check how to Insert the BASIC Stamp module in its socket.
- No power : double-check the power supply that you have connected to your board. (See Power Supplies for options). If your board has a power switch, make sure it is switched on and the power indicator is lit. If you are using a 9V battery, try a fresh one. If you are using a battery pack, make sure the batteries are all inserted into the pack correctly; try fresh batteries. If you are using a wall-mount supply, make sure the wall outlet is not turned off at a wall switch. If you have a voltmeter, use it to measure the voltage supplied by the battery pack or wall-mount to rule out defective power supply hardware.
- Software version : Make sure you are using the latest version of the BASIC Stamp Editor Software. You may check for a later version at www.parallax.com/basicstampsoftware.
- USB drivers : If you are using a Parallax USB connection, you may need to update your USB drivers. See the USB Drivers page for help.
- USB ports freeze after disconnecting from USB 3.0 port: USB 2.0 ports are recommended for BASIC Stamp boards. On some computers, the internal USB hub will freeze when disconnecting a USB 2.0 device from a USB 3.0 port. This may cause all USB ports on the computer to become unresponsive, requiring a reboot of the computer to remedy the situation. System updates from your computer manufacturer may correct the problem.USB 3.0 ports can sometimes be identified by a blue tab inside the socket.

- Beware of non-Parallax USB to Serial Adapters : Not every brand of USB to Serial Adapter supports the timing precision needed for BASIC Stamp programming. Some known-incompatible brands are Belkin and Gigaware. Keyspan #USA19-HS is known to be compatible. You can order an inexpensive Parallax USB to Serial Adapter (#28030) from www.parallax.com.

The Run/Identify Test Procedure

- To make sure your BASIC Stamp module can communicate with your computer, click the Run menu, then select Identify.

- Or, you can use the ID icon on the toolbar:

An identification window will appear similar to the one shown here. This example shows that a BASIC Stamp 2 has been detected on COM5.

- Check the Identification window to make sure your BASIC Stamp module has been detected on one of the COM ports. If it has been detected, then you are ready to program your BASIC Stamp.

## It Passed the Run/Identify Test but Still Won't Program Reliably

- If your USB-connected BASIC Stamp is detected and you see Yes in both columns, but can program only intermittently or get a "No BASIC Stamps Found" or a hardware/communication failure message, try adjusting the Latency Timer Settings.

## It Failed the Run/Identify Test

If the Run/Identify test DID NOT find your BASIC Stamp on any COM port, the message that appeared can help diagnose connection problems.

- Click on a message (below) to go to its troubleshooting page.

### No Device Type

### No Usable Serial Ports Found

### Can't open port; in use

### Invalid Port

Go to Welcome page

BASIC Stamp Help Version 2.5.4

Copyright © Parallax Inc.

8/8/2012