DigiSnap 2700 configuration via Android device

The DigiSnap 2700 controller connects to a computer serial port to configure the DigiSnap settings. A simple 'dumb terminal' is all that's required to communicate with the DigiSnap. Apple eliminated serial ports from their Mac computers long ago, and even PC laptops typically don't include them anymore. While not often included on computers anymore, USB/Serial cables can be used to add a serial port to a computer. This works on Mac, Windows, Linux, and even Android operating systems.

There are times when you may want to change the settings on a DigiSnap 2700 controller in the field, and it may be inconvenient to carry a laptop computer. If you have an Android smartphone or tablet, you may be able to use it for configuration!

There are a number of 'terminal' programs available from the Google Play store, but we have sorted through many of them and found a free one that seems to work well. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.liorhass.android.usbterminal.free

You will need a USB OTG cable to connect your Android device to a USB/Serial cable. There a loads of inexpensive models available at computer stores or the internet. We believe they are all equivalent.

To connect to the DigiSnap, you will need a USB/Serial Cable and Null Modem adapter. Harbortronics part number 000778 ($20) will work quite well with Android, Mac, or Windows. Other serial cables based on the FTDI chipset may work, but you may also need a separate Null Modem adapter between the DigiSnap and the serial cable.

Once you have acquired the cables and downloaded the App, let's set it all up!

1. Install the App on your android device.
2. Open the App, and change a few settings. You should only need to do this once.
   1. Click the CRTL Button to show the selection bar.
      Enable both RTS and DTR (will show red).
      Click the CTRL button again to close the bar.
   2. Vertical Dots Button
      Settings
      Change Baud Rate to 19200
      Change Screen Text size to 12 (helpful on a smartphone)
      Return to the main screen
3. Connect the cables. Android << USB OTG << USB/Serial/Null Modem Cable << DigiSnap
4. The Android may detect the cables, and ask to choose an App for the USB device. Select USBTerminal. If not, you may need to open the App, click the Vertical Dots button, and 'Connect USB Device'.
5. Turn the DigiSnap off (or remove power), and then apply power to the DigiSnap to wake it. The DigiSnap menu should appear on the screen. Click at the bottom of the screen to type commands into the terminal. Don't forget to enter 'Q' when finished with your changes! Please refer to the DigiSnap 2700 user guide for instructions on the commands. http://www.harbortronics.com/Products/Digisnap2700/