My USB adapter is installed, but the COM port isn't listed in the dropdown.
FinishLynx reads COM ports when it opens, so plug the adapter in first and restart FinishLynx. If Device Manager shows a warning on it, reinstall its driver; current versions already list every port type (TypeMask -1).
COM ports are read when FinishLynx opens. If you plug the adapter in afterward it will not appear; restart FinishLynx and it will be listed.
If it still does not appear, open Device Manager (Control Panel) and check the adapter is listed and working, with its COM number in brackets. If it shows a small warning symbol, there is a problem with the device or the connection:
- Plug the adapter into a different USB port.
- Reinstall the adapter's driver.
- Plug the adapter back in and let Windows recognize it (a pop-up confirms the device is installed and working).
If the adapter is not listed at all, do steps 2 and 3. If it is listed under Ports but FinishLynx still cannot see it, a hidden setting introduced in version 8.5 may need changing:
- Hold Ctrl + Shift and open File | Options to get the Hidden Settings window.
- Expand SerialPort and select TypeMask.
- Change the value to -1.
- Close and restart FinishLynx.
Current versions already default TypeMask to -1, which lists every type of COM port.
Goes deeper
- Capture button not working — Troubleshoot · Software · FinishLynx · Capture
Related questions
- Why doesn't the computer recognize the USB adapter (COM ports)? — Usually the driver was never installed, or an old one was carried over by a Windows update. Install the right driver for your adapter (FTDI for the USB button, ATEN UC232A for the older adapter), then plug it in.
- Why do I get the message "Capture Button Serial Port Unavailable"? — Harmless if you use Auto Capture. If you use the button, its COM port wasn't found: plug the button in before opening FinishLynx and select its port in File | Options | General.
- Which capture button cable do I need? — Two kinds: a 9-pin serial to 3-pin XLR cable with a USB-to-serial adapter (older), or the current USB-to-XLR cable with no adapter, which is Windows 11 compatible. Each needs its own driver.