KBA00020618

When enabling a GPS device in Mobile, you must select the COM port it is using to communicate. This article provides methods and tools for determining which COM port your device is using.

FLEX

• Using the Windows Device Manager
• Open the Device Manager
• Expand the Ports (COM & LPT) Section
• Search for your GPS device by brand name, model number, or protocol (NMEA)
  
   
   
   
   
   
• If your device is not apparent in the Ports Section, search for a specific device section with the brand name of your device, such as Garmin shown above. If this is present, it probably uses a proprietary GPS protocol, does not utilize a COM port, and is not compatible with Spillman. The only proprietary protocol Spillman recognizes is the Garmin Device Interface
• Also, some USB devices are listed under a USB Root section
  
   
  

Using Device Software

• Some GPS devices come with their own management software, particularly those that are integrated into a laptop or tablet. If you do not have this software, it should be available from the manufacturer of your GPS unit. This software can often be used both to configure as well as monitor a device's function and performance

Using Port Scanning Software

• There are a number of GPS port scanning programs available on the internet, both free and paid. GPS Port Checker is a simple, free utility that will scan for Garmin, Magellan, or NMEA devices. (Again, Spillman supports Garmin and generic NMEA devices - not Magellan)