Need help getting INPA to talk to my E34 via ADS

[DrCharles]

I have an old XP laptop with a hardware serial port that I've used successfully to talk to my E38 and E39 (both OBD).

But I need to communicate with my E34 '93 525i (ADS) and can't make it work. After reading all the threads I could find, I bought the cable that is known to work (this one): https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256803759041774.html

My version of INPA and EDIABAS was allegedly too new, so I installed 3.01 and 6.4.7(?) from a download found on this thread:
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?2449742-Connecting-your-old-BMW-(E34)-to-INPA-NCS-etc-in-2021

and my post detailing today's struggles is #31 there.

INPA and EDIABAS start up but won't run properly once I select Old models, E34 and any of the options for DME, transmission, etc. (either shows "error compiling script" or "command not accepted").

Can someone please help me get the software straightened out so at least it runs without errors? :help
thanks!

[MichaelCarter]

The versions you've got hold of, INPA 3.01 and EDIABAS 6.4.7, they ought to do the job, but it's well known they can be a bit touchy. What you need to do, mate, is make dead sure you're stickin' to the install steps to the letter 'cause this software's a right mare if you don't set it up just so.

[DrCharles]

I already found that it won't install from hard disk, but will install from a CD.
After a careful reinstallation, it's partially working (the script errors have gone, battery & ignition dots come on appropriately and commands are accepted).

But it won't connect to any modules (IFH-0009, no response from control unit).

And I have a different error when trying the DME (IFH-0002, object file not found). After checking that, I still get the Requested control unit: DME331, DM331K20 not found.

In addition, the TRANS PROGRAM warning appears on the dash with a chime, each time I try to connect to anything, not just the transmission. Doesn't this mean data is going onto the bus?

Is there some pin(s) that need to be jumped on the 20-pin to 16-pin adapter cable?


About to give up, at least for now.