828 Mk3 FW Connection and Static

[Rumpl4skn]

Was also curious if anyone else has had this issue - my MOTU 828 Mkiii has been unbelievably susceptible to static since day 1. I now keep a ground post by my rig so I can unconsciously "unload" myself before I touch the unit or the laptop, as it immediately drops the FW connection and I get the "MOTU Audio Unit not found" message.

This unit also tends to be VERY picky about FW cables - I have 2 basic brands, and only one of them seems to hold the connection solidly. Doesn't have a brand name on it, but it's very thick black cable, quite heavy duty. The others are a clear jacketed type, also LOOK very heavy duty, but they drop the connection often, usually without anything unusual happening.

All in all, has anyone else had these issues of static-related as well as random connection drops? Just curious.

[mandobilly64]

Did you update to the 1.06 firmware? and are you using the latest drivers? They actually just released a new version a few days ago. It really sounds like something else on your computer is causing a conflict. Maybe sharing an IRQ with the wireless internet on that laptop. Try disabling the internet while using the MOTU and see if you have better luck.

Peace,
Billy

[SmilesLots]

Did you update to the 1.06 firmware? and are you using the latest drivers? They actually just released a new version a few days ago. It really sounds like something else on your computer is causing a conflict. Maybe sharing an IRQ with the wireless internet on that laptop. Try disabling the internet while using the MOTU and see if you have better luck.

Peace,
Billy

Do you by any chance have a link to the new firmware? I went to their downloads page and could only find the 1.06 firmware. I too had intermittent static, traced to probable leaky capacitor in the phantom power circuitry, and Motu sent me a replacement. Thanks.

[Rumpl4skn]

This system is streamlined for audio - all unneeded hardware is disabled or uninstalled. I didn't mean "static noise", I mean static charges. TOUCHING the MOTU or the laptop causes the connection to drop.

[mandobilly64]

This system is streamlined for audio - all unneeded hardware is disabled or uninstalled. I didn't mean "static noise", I mean static charges. TOUCHING the MOTU or the laptop causes the connection to drop.

That's really weird. Do you have them both plugged in to the same ac outlet? If so, your outlet may not be grounded correctly. I would try other outlets and see if it still happens, maybe even a friend's house to see if it's the ground in your house. Of course it could be the ground on the MOTU itself too.

Good luck,
Billy

[FutureLegends]

I just got a new 828mk3 as replacement for my old. But on this one the FW port seems very flaky. Just slightly disturbing the cable can make the unit loose connection with the computer...