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TMDSEMU200-U: TMDSEMU200-U Hardware Communication Issue Under Warranty

Part Number: TMDSEMU200-U

Dear TI Support Team,

I am experiencing a communication issue with two TMDSEMU200-U (XDS200) debug probes, both of which are under warranty.

The probes are unable to maintain a stable USB connection with Windows. When connected, they appear briefly in Device Manager and then disconnect after a few seconds, preventing reliable communication with the target device.

I was able to verify that the firmware is already updated and functioning correctly. Since the issue is present on both units and persists across different USB ports and systems, I suspect a hardware-related problem rather than a firmware issue.

Could you please advise on the recommended troubleshooting steps and the warranty replacement/RMA process for these units?

Thank you for your assistance.

Best regards,
Sachin

  • Hi Sachin,

    Since the issue affects both units and persists across different USB ports and systems, here are steps to consider before pursuing an RMA:

    1. USB Cable Swap — Try different USB cables (preferably short, high-quality cables with good shielding). Intermittent enumeration/disconnection is frequently cable-related.

    2. USB Hub Elimination — Connect directly to a motherboard USB port (not a front-panel or hub port). Some XDS probes are sensitive to USB power delivery.

    3. Driver Reinstallation — Fully uninstall the TI XDS drivers (via Code Composer Studio or standalone XDS emulation package), then reinstall the latest version.

    4. Power Supply Check — Confirm the target board is not back-driving or loading the probe's JTAG/SWD lines in a way that causes the probe's USB controller to fault.

    5. Windows USB Power Management — Disable "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power" in Device Manager for all USB Root Hubs.

    Regarding Warranty / RMA

    The warranty replacement process for TI debug probes (TMDSEMU200-U) is handled directly through Texas Instruments' support and returns portal, not through this channel. To initiate an RMA:

    • Contact TI directly via TI E2E Support or through your TI sales representative / authorized distributor.
    • Provide your serial numbers, proof of purchase, and a description of the fault.
    • TI's support team will evaluate and issue an RMA if the units qualify under warranty.

    Best Regards,

    Zackary Fleenor

  • Hi Zackary,

    Thank you for your response.

    I have already tried all of the troubleshooting steps you suggested, including:

    • Swapping multiple high-quality USB cables
    • Connecting directly to motherboard USB ports on different PCs
    • Reinstalling the latest TI XDS drivers
    • Verifying that the target board is not causing the issue
    • Disabling Windows USB power management

    Unfortunately, the problem persists with both TMDSEMU200-U units.

    I also attempted to initiate a warranty return through the TI returns portal. However, my request was rejected because the product was categorized as an EVM. These are XDS200 debug probes and are still under warranty.

    Could you please advise how I should proceed with a warranty replacement? Is there a different RMA process for the TMDSEMU200-U, or could you direct me to the appropriate team that can assist with processing the warranty claim?

    Additionally, since we are experiencing the same issue with two separate TMDSEMU200-U units, would it be possible for someone from your technical team to join an online support session or remote troubleshooting call? We would greatly appreciate any assistance in diagnosing the issue. If there are any additional tests or diagnostics you would like us to perform, we are happy to do so during the session.

    This issue is now urgent, as both debug probes are unusable and the development work is currently blocked. I would appreciate any expedited support you can provide to help us resolve this issue as soon as possible.

    I can provide the serial numbers, proof of purchase, and any additional information required.

    Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your prompt response.

  • Hi Sachin,

    The TMDSEMU200-U is a debug probe, not an EVM, and should be eligible for warranty service. Since the TI returns portal rejected your request due to miscategorization:

    1. Contact your authorized TI distributor (e.g., Mouser, Digi-Key, Farnell — whoever you purchased from). They often have a separate RMA path for accessories and tools.
    2. Open a new TI E2E support case specifically under the "Debug Probes" or "XDS" category, referencing the rejected RMA and clarifying the product type.
    3. Contact TI sales directly via your regional TI office — they can escalate internally to the correct returns team.

    For the Technical Issue:

    Since both units exhibit identical behavior (brief enumeration then disconnect), and you've ruled out cables, ports, PCs, drivers, and target boards, this strongly suggests a hardware fault — possibly related to the USB controller or power regulation on the probes themselves.

    Best Regards,

    Zackary Fleenor