Look for an entry labeled or Prolific/FTDI USB-to-Serial Comm Port .
Note: For the best results in data transfer, it is recommended to use the Leica Data Exchange Manager Guide .
connects Leica total stations and digital theodolites directly to a computer for seamless data transfer. To establish this connection on modern operating systems, configuring the updated is mandatory to prevent virtual COM port connectivity drops.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the , including how to find the correct driver, update it successfully, fix compatibility issues, and ensure your device communicates flawlessly.
(Part No. 734700) is a critical communication link for Leica total stations, designed to facilitate data transfer between the instrument and a PC. While originally developed for earlier operating systems, the cable is compatible with through the use of specific driver versions. Driver Installation & Updates for Windows 10 To ensure the GEV189 cable
Open Device Manager > Right-click the problematic device > Properties > Details > Hardware Ids. Look for:
The is an essential accessory for field surveyors and mapping professionals using Leica Total Stations. Designed to transmit measurement data and coordinate files, this cable acts as the vital communication bridge between a Leica instrument (like the TS series or DNA levels) and a computer. However, plugging the cable into a modern Windows 10 machine often isn't enough. Without the correct GEV189 driver , the computer cannot recognize the device, making your data transfer impossible. This article provides a complete guide to installing, updating, and troubleshooting the GEV189 driver on Windows 10.
If you see “The best drivers for your device are already installed” but it still doesn’t work, proceed to Manual Method 2.
| Component | Recommendation | |-----------|----------------| | | Check via Device Manager → Properties → Details → Hardware IDs. If VID_067B&PID_2303 = Prolific. | | Official working driver | Prolific PL-2303 v3.8.36.4 or higher (but only for PL-2303 HXD, HX, and later chips – NOT for HXA, RA, TA). | | If chip is old (HXA/RA) | Hardware is incompatible with Windows 10. You must buy a new GEV189 cable with a newer chip (or FTDI-based). | | Alternative driver (unsafe) | Some users force-install PL-2303 v3.3.2.105 (Windows 7 driver) after disabling driver signature enforcement. Not recommended – causes BSODs and data corruption. | | FTDI-based GEV189 cables | Use FTDI VCP driver v2.12.28.0 (works natively on Windows 10, no update issues). |
: Note that you may need to repeat the "Update Driver" process twice: once for the USB Serial Converter and once for the USB Serial Port (COMx) Optimization and Troubleshooting USB cable drivers for Windows | Sentek Technologies
Connecting legacy surveying equipment to a modern operating system can be a frustrating experience. If you use a Leica total station or DNA digital level, you likely rely on the Leica GEV189 USB data transfer cable. However, setting up this cable on Windows 10 often leads to driver errors, unrecognized devices, or communication failures in your data exchange software.
Leica Geosystems provides drivers and software updates through their download portal. As noted in multiple documentation sources, the most current driver can be found on the . Navigate to Support & Downloads , search for "GEV189" or "USB cable driver," and select the version compatible with Windows 10.
Choose "Browse my computer for driver software" and navigate to the extracted folder.