Open CPN frequent crash

[sylinea]

In need of help please.
I am running openCPN v5.0.0+9065270 on Windows 7 SP 1, 32bit. I have AIS connected via Prolific Serial USB connector and NMEA data through a ShipModul Miniplex. It has worked well for several years.

This sailing season I am experiencing frequent blue screen crashes. I have completed re-installed windows and openCPN but this hasn't cured the problem.

The crashes don't happen when I am sitting at Anchor with just a gps connection via usb and anchor watch running.

This may be related the AIS feed is also randomly shutting down. I have checked settings and there are no power saving plans that close usb ports. i have changed the receive and transmit buffers to low. There is no pattern to the duration before shut down.Unplugging and plugging in the USB restores AIS.
Anyone any ideas?

[tkeithlu]

Dare I say anything, when computers have been black boxes for me since I was programming in 1s and 0s in 1966? OK, I will.

I would start with the connections. You've been using the same cables and ports for a long time in a hostile environment. Separate everything, run it, replace cables, inspect USB ports - some posters have mentioned even using dielectric grease on USBs. The problem may be very complicated, but then, it might not be.

[sylinea]

Thanks, will give it a try and report back

[hoolie]

There were some problems reported on version 5.0 with usb inputs. You should update to 5.2 and test your system again.

[sylinea]

The upgrade to 5.2 seems to have fixed the AIS disconnect problem.