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"Communication error!" with TI's Packet Sniffer

Frank O
Prodigy 130 points

Other Parts Discussed in Thread: CC2531, CC2530, CC2530EM

I have just received a development kit from TI (CC2530DK).

 

I downloaded the latest version of Packet Sniffer (2.12.3) and SmartFR Studio 7(1.3.1)

I use the CC2531DK USB dongle (pcb rev 2.1) and the 2m USB cable provided with the kit.

I have paid much attention not to zap it (since it’s not packaged).

I run under Windows XP (SP2) and used the USB drivers from “..\Texas Instruments\Extras\Drivers\cc2531dongle.inf” version 2.0.0.0

 

I start Packet Sniffer and can collect about 300 messages (typically) before I get 10 messages in pink saying: “Communication error!”

 

I already tried uninstalling the USB drivers for the dongle, reboot, change the USB port. 

When I press play on the Packet sniffer, I can see that it loading the FW (or checking it’s version).

I get this problem on any Channel, any protocol.  It’s just a matter of time/number of packets.

 

Any idea?

 

  • 0
    TI__Mastermind 19575 points

    Frank O:

    If you do not need to save the file, you can use the Hot Keys F6 to stop and F5 to start again right away. This is the quickest workaround.

    Are you using the CC2531 USB dongle through a hub?

    LPRF Rocks the World

  • 0 in reply to Morten Braathen
    Prodigy 130 points

    Hi,

    My CC2531 dongle is connected directly to one of my PC port (no Hub).  I also tried 2 different port (on the back and the front of my tower) and with a different cable.

    When I save and reload the collected data, the "Communication error!" displays as "Invalid length@ or something like it.

    I can do F6/F5 but since I,m not always in front of the PC while testing, when it disconnect, I'm missing relevant packets!!! Sometimes it only takes few minutes before the connection disconnect.

    I wonder if it would do the same with a previous version of the Sniffer, but IT doesn't seems to make these available.

    I tried another 3rd party sniffer (ubiqua) and I don't have this problem (same HW setup)

    And in case you would ask if the data transmitted OTA would be corrupted, I also tried with one of TI demo application on a separate channel.

  • 0 in reply to Frank O
    Prodigy 130 points

    Hi,

    I've tried the same experience with a SmartRF05EB and a CC2530 configured as packet sniffer.  I have the same issue so I can tell it’s not related to the CC2531 dongle.

    It could be a problem with the version of Sniffer FW I use or this specific version of Packet sniffer SW or a combination of the two.

    Where could I find previous versions of Packet sniffer and Sniffer FW? 

    Regards,

  • 0 in reply to Frank O
    TI__Expert 4900 points

    Hi Frank,

     

    This is most probably a problem with the Firmware. Attached you will find a new version of the FW for CC2531 USB Dongle and the CC2530EM. The CC2531 must be programmed on beforehand with the SmartRF Flash Programmer. The CC2530EM will automatically be programmed when starting the sniffer. The file need to be put on the correct directory: E.g. C:\Program Files\Texas Instruments\Packet Sniffer\General\Firmware

    We will release a new version including these files within a few days.

    Regards,

    Øyvind

    Sniffer_fw_cc253x.zip
  • 0 in reply to Øyvind K
    Prodigy 130 points

    Dear Øyvind,

    Thank you very much for your new Sniffer FW file.  So far >2000 packet logged and the Packet sniffer SW is still connected.!

    I sometimes see "Invalid size" packet marked in pink in the interface.  I would believe these packets where causing the CC2531 FW to hand in a way.

    Once again, thanks!

    Frank