I thought I'd give an update to the list that I solved the problem. First off, however, I want to say thank you to those that responded, both on and off the list. I apologize for not replying earlier, but that's because I was neck deep in solving the issue. Anyway, I've written a blog post describing and showing how I solved the problem and fixed it. You can read it here: http://www.bodenzord.com/archives/1857 In summary, however, I found a broken trace on the small circuit board that the SpectroLino plugs into. I ended up fixing it with a bodge wire. Here's two pics showing the before and after. Before: http://www.bodenzord.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/2016-01-19_Spectroscan_Z... After: http://www.bodenzord.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/2016-01-24_Spectroscan_Z... I'm hoping that what I discovered will be of help to others. Mike

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Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2016 00:06:23 -0800 From: Steve Upton <upton@chromix.com>

Are you running El Capitan by any chance?

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Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2016 09:30:17 -0800 From: Ethan Hansen <ehansen@drycreekphoto.com>

Hi Mike,

You're in a familiar situation. We maintain a stable of Spectroscans, cannibalizing parts to keep half a dozen in working order. I can't help with schematics; first GMB then X-Rite insisted they were proprietary followed by "no longer supported."

The first step I suggest is to determine if the problem lies in the Spectroscan's wiring or elsewhere. If you have access to an older PC with a real serial port, try connecting from that. We have several Spectroscans that simply will not fully connect using any model of USB adapter.

Next, connect the Spectrolino directly to the computer without the Spectroscan in the way. To do so, you'll need the 25 to 9 pin adapter that accepts external power input and the power supply. If you don't have one or both available, contact me off-list. If MeasureTool connects and can perform basic measurements, the fault lies in the Spectroscan interface.

When we have reached this point, our approach is to delve into our parts bin. Years ago we had success repairing a few Spectroscans, but with the price of used units on eBay being what it is (particularly if you are not looking for one with working stepper motors) the time investment did not make sense.

Cheers, Ethan