Accel gen 7 serial cable or USB converter

[suprspooky]

Hello, New Forum user here, seems like several folks have set up the Accel Gen 7 DFI.
I need some input based on your personal experience with the Laptop to ECU comm. cable.
The used setup I purchased came with the older Serial (RS-232 DB-9) cable but no Key.
I see Keys are available for purchase, either the old style Parallel Port Key or the newer USB key.
Which route should I take, I have Laptops with Serial/Parallel available with 1+Ghz CPU so I can do either.
I've read posts that say the older cable is better (less comm. problems). I'm assuming I'd need the DB-9 plugged into a USB to Serial adapter and the USB Key to use my old Cable.
Will the USB type Key allow me to plug directly into DB-9 Serial Port?
I more interested in solid Comm. than cost.

Oh and the project is a SBC to be converted to Hilborn 8 stack efi, replacing a Holley 4Bbl/Edelbrock Scorpion setup, 18ft Jetboat (capable of slight lateral g's). I bought the Hilborn setup used and it included the Accel DFI.

If anyone thinks there's a better forum for me use, let me know. I've read quite a few posts here and it seems like plenty of info that will port into my project.

Thanks,

Dave

[supremeefi]

Hello, New Forum user here, seems like several folks have set up the Accel Gen 7 DFI.
I need some input based on your personal experience with the Laptop to ECU comm. cable.
The used setup I purchased came with the older Serial (RS-232 DB-9) cable but no Key.
I see Keys are available for purchase, either the old style Parallel Port Key or the newer USB key.
Which route should I take, I have Laptops with Serial/Parallel available with 1+Ghz CPU so I can do either.
I've read posts that say the older cable is better (less comm. problems). I'm assuming I'd need the DB-9 plugged into a USB to Serial adapter and the USB Key to use my old Cable. Correct
Will the USB type Key allow me to plug directly into DB-9 Serial Port?
I more interested in solid Comm. than cost.

Oh and the project is a SBC to be converted to Hilborn 8 stack efi, replacing a Holley 4Bbl/Edelbrock Scorpion setup, 18ft Jetboat (capable of slight lateral g's). I bought the Hilborn setup used and it included the Accel DFI.

If anyone thinks there's a better forum for me use, let me know. I've read quite a few posts here and it seems like plenty of info that will port into my project.

Thanks,

Dave

You have the right system for an 8 stack, should run well. I have a Pro style USB comm cable if you're interested. With the right setup they'll work pretty well too.
What version Gen 7 is it? There should be a white sticker on the back of the box. That will tell you the version and age of the box in hand.

[suprspooky]

Mark,

Thanks for the reply, I think I'll get a USB Pro Key as I already have several USB to Serial Convtrs.

The sticker shows 77022, s/n 100546 and hand written is v2.0 std, I think it's quite old (early 2000's)

Should/can I get this unit upgraded.

Can I tell more about what the version is by connecting the unit to power and Sensors and communicating via Cal Map?

I'm assuming I need a Key to communicate with the ECU at all, is this true?

[supremeefi]

Mark,

Thanks for the reply, I think I'll get a USB Pro Key as I already have several USB to Serial Convtrs.
The sticker shows 77022, s/n 100546 and hand written is v2.0 std, I think it's quite old (early 2000's) You sure it doesn't say 3.2?

Should/can I get this unit upgraded? Yes, for your application I would.
Can I tell more about what the version is by connecting the unit to power and Sensors and communicating via Cal Map? Not necessarily. Normally the sticker on the back is correct.

I'm assuming I need a Key to communicate with the ECU at all, is this true? No, just a comm cable and the downloaded software.

Email me at [email protected] and I'll help.