TITLE
    Macintosh: "Port in Use" Error With Palm Computing Software
Article ID:
Created:
Modified: 		24905
5/6/99
8/14/00
TOPIC

    I recently installed a software package for my Palm Computing handheld device (MacPac v. 2.x). Now, when my Macintosh starts up or when I try to select Enable for my HotSync setting from the HotSync Manager, I get the following error message: "HotSync can not be enabled because the port is in use by another application." What is causing this error message?

DISCUSSION

    3Com has identified several potential causes for such an issue. Please refer to their knowledgebase article for more specific information:

    http://palmpilot.3com.com/custsupp/macintosh/portinuse.html

    If other software is running that is dedicated to using the serial port chosen in HotSync Manager, this error can be expected to occur.

    Here is a three-step process:
      1. Use the AppleTalk control panel to verify that AppleTalk is not active through this port. Either set AppleTalk to another port, or while in the Advanced User Mode (Edit menu: User Mode) click the Options button and choose Make AppleTalk inactive. Try again to enable HotSync in HotSync Manager.
      2. Disable any other software dedicated to using the serial port chosen in HotSync Manager. This may include fax or modem software. (You may need to turn off these extensions with the Extensions Manager control panel; refer to the documentation that came with the software or serial device for more information.) Restart the computer, and try again to enable HotSync in HotSync Manager.
      3. If the error message persists at startup, it is because you have a conflict with other software as described above, and HotSync Manager is set to be enabled at system startup. In HotSync Manager, under HotSync options, deselect the box labeled "Enable HotSync software at system startup."

    For more information, contact 3Com.

    For more information on troubleshooting extension conflicts, please read "Resolving system extension conflicts" in Mac OS Help, or read the following article:

    Article 30929: " Mac OS 8.x: Extensions Troubleshooting/Extensions Manager Features "

    For more information about the "port in use" error, and how to make AppleTalk inactive using the AppleTalk control panel, please read the following article:

    Article 24346: " Mac OS: AppleTalk "Port In Use" Error "

    This article provides information about a non-Apple product. Apple Computer, Inc. is not responsible for its content. Please contact the vendor for additional information.

    The following article can help you search for a particular vendor's address and phone number:

    Article 17159: " Locating Vendor Information "

Document Information
Product Area: Computers
Category: Troubleshooting
Sub Category: General Topics

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