Network adapter on my Flex 6400 may have failed

David Pearson

It looks like the network adapter on my Flex 6400 may have failed. Here’s what I’ve tried so far:

• Swapped network cables, but my Flex 6400 does not appear in the list of attached devices on my router. No network lights are blinking for that connection on the router.
• Connected the radio directly to my computer, but the computer did not detect it, and there were no network activity lights on my computer.
• Checked for any indicator lights on the Flex 6400 itself but don’t see any blinking near the network port. Does the radio have any network status LEDs?
• Performed a hard reset (holding the button until the light turns white, then releasing). The radio boots up with a steady green light and no error indications.

I haven’t opened the radio yet, but is the network adapter a separate card that plugs into another board?

I’ve submitted a support ticket to Flex and understand they’re busy. In the meantime, is there anything else I can try to further diagnose or possibly resolve the issue?

Trucker

Unfortunately, it sounds like the internal network connection has failed. It isn't a network card like you would be able to purchase for your computer. I imagine that the Help Desk is going to recommend sending the radio in for repair. But, it's always possible that they have another test that you can do and a possible solution not requiring sending it in for repair. Good luck!

James

WD5GWY

David Pearson

I just try a new switch just in case. No go, no network lights.

David Pearson

I just check my helpdesk request did not take. I resubmitted with the additional info. Hopefully this does not mess with my trade up value, I was planning on doing. I was looking at the 8600.

David Pearson

Looks like the radio is headed back to Flex. Most likely a network interface has failed. At least the radio will be well known to Flex when I decide to trade up for the new generation. Meanwhile I will use my proven Flex-1500.

David Pearson

James, it was the network interface chip. Just got the radio back today, good as new. Also upgrade smartsdr to 3.8.23.

Trucker

Glad you have your radio back and working.

James

WD5GWY