September 5, 1997

In some instances when using the AnswerMAN Jr. and the development board connected to a PC’s RS-232 serial port, it is possible that the module will not reset or power-up correctly. Because the AnswerMAN requires such a small amount of power, a PC with a strong serial port is capable of providing enough power to the module so that it actually runs without the main power supply being connected. The problem shows itself as incomplete or incorrect sign-on messages and/or time-out errors when writing data to the EEPROM.

If you experience these symptoms, the problem can be corrected by either of the following methods:

1. Install a 470W resistor between +5V and ground on the development board.
2. Disconnect the development board from the serial port before resetting it or powering it up