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Changing the serial connection speed for Handheld PC Explorer connections

CESD|200159

Applies To

  • Windows CE 1.0, 1.01

Overview

In the default Operating System configuration for most H/PC class devices, the OEM has left the Serial port baud rate set to the default 19,200 bps. This article discusses how to increase the connection speed when synchronising with Handheld PC Explorer.

More Info

When connecting a Handheld PC to Microsoft Handheld PC Explorer version 1.1, unlike with ActiveSync connections where the baud rate is automatic, the host PC's serial ports will not be adjusted to match the incoming connection baud rate.

All RS232 serial ports are designed to comply to the same data transmission standards. The RS232 standard allows for a maximum transfer rate of 115.2 Kbps (115,200 BPS). The proprietary port type on your Handheld PC, despite not using a regular DB9 connector is designed to comply with the standard.
The H/PC's baud rate setting must be manually specified. With the release of Windows CE 1.0, all Handheld PC's shipped with profile support for 19,200 BPS connections. No further options are available.

To change the speed of the serial communication between the host PC and the H/PC when using H/PC Explorer, you need to create a new connection profile on the Handheld PC and change the connection mode on the Host PC.

How-to Guide

Windows CE was designed to make synchronisation connections using a system similar to, but isolated from the Remote Networking layer. Synchronisation connections over serial should be initiated from the PC Link application and not from Remote Networking. Under Windows CE 1.0x, the creation of an isolated profile is possible, however for most users it is more convenient to use Remote Networking to facilitate the connection

Configuring the Handheld PC

To select the communications profile used by PC Link

  1. Tap Start
  2. Select Programs and double tap Communications
  3. Run Remote Networking
  4. Double tap Make New Connection
  5. Enter the Name:
    SerialPort @ 57600
  6. Ensure that the Direct Connection radio button is checked and tap Next
  7. Tap the Configure button
  8. In the Baud Rate drop box select 57600
    At this stage you may wish to configure the connection at 115200 BPS, should this fail after completion, return to this step and switch down to the recommended 57600 BPS setting
  9. Tap OK and then tap Finish
  10. Tap Start
  11. Select Settings
    Control Panel
  12. Double tap the Communications icon to launch the Communications applet
    Communication Properties
  13. Open the PC Connection tab
  14. Tap the Change... button
  15. From the Connect to desktop computer using: drop box, select the communications profile you wish to use
    Change Connection

Configuring Windows 2000 / XP / 2003

Configuration settings under Windows NT 5.x require that you have successfully followed either the CESDC0001 Windows 2000 connection guide or the CESDC0002 Windows Xp / 2003 connection guide before attempting to make any changes. It is strongly recommended that you do not attempt to modify the baud rate settings of your Handheld PC until you have confirmed the H/PC Explorer connection is properly operational.

This article assumes the use of the default XP Luna theme

  1. Disconnect your Handheld PC and close Handheld PC Explorer
  2. Tap Start
  3. Select Control Panel
  4. Select Network Connections
  5. Right Click Incoming Connections and select Properties
    Incoming Connections
  6. In the Incoming connection area, highlight the COM port associated with your Handheld PC Connection and select Properties
    Allow incoming over communications cable
  7. Expand the Port speed drop box as shown below
    Port Speed

    You Must match the port speed setting configured on the Handheld PC with the setting in this drop box. If you set the Handheld PC to 57600, then the value in this drop box must also be 57600. Failing to match the associated port speed will render the communication either unstable or inoperable
  8. When finished click OK and reconnect your Handheld PC