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How to use HyperTerminal to test if the COM port that the instrument(s) are connected to is functioning correctly:

 

HyperTerminal may already be installed, however it isn't available by default on Windows 7.

To download this very useful tool:

 

 Google for: Windows 7 Hyperterminal

 Alternatives include 'putty'

 

Once downloaded, run HyperTerminal from the Start button: Programs menu (or it may be under the Accessories - Communications sub-menus).

 

From HyperTerminal's 'Connection Description' dialog enter any name & choose any icon, then click OK.

On the 'Connect To' dialog - to test, for example, COM1 then select 'Direct to Com1' from the 'Connect using' list box, and click OK, then click OK on the 'COM1 Properties' dialog leaving the 'Bits per second' and the other settings as they are.

If the status bar along the bottom of the window now says 'Connected 00:00:00' and starts counting up in seconds, then COM1 is OK. Otherwise an error dialog will be displayed.  If HyperTerminal cannot connect to the COM port, then SpecView will also be unable to communicate with it.