Operating system name and version: Ubuntu 9.10 (Karmic Koala)
Version of smsd: 3.1.3
Smsd installed from: package repository
Name and model of a modem / phone:
Interface: USB


Hi,

i've been running smstools for a while now, but lately (after adding more modems) i see the following errors in the logs:

Could not send character A, cause: Input/output error

When i restart smstools everything works fine again, but after a while those errors pop up again. Does anyone has an idea on where to start looking? Is it a hardware problem or something software related? Since everything works ok after a restart of smstools i suspect it has something to do with my config.

Thanks for any ideas!

It seems to happen at the 'Pre-initializing modem' stage during the usual 'checking for new sms' cycle. Maybe this helps

Currently I do not know a good reason for that. Does this happen with all modems, or with single modem only?

There is a modem option which may help: keep_open = no. With this option a modem is closed every time while it's not used. Perhaps this has the same effect as restarting.

I've tested it with several combinations of modems/simcards and it keeps happening. I have the feeling it has something to do with Ubuntu for it keeps mentioning a disconnect/reset of usb devices in its logs.

After searching the bug database it seems this mostly happens in case of hardware problems and/or power issues. Since my hardware is new i guess it could be related to power. I have 4 modems connected to 1 usb hub which in turn is connected to an usb 1 port on an older PC.

I'll stop by the shop today to buy an external powered usb hub to see if that makes a difference.

Thanks for the keep_open option, I'll try that in the meanwhile.

Ivs

Older USB ports can give about 500 mA current. For example iTegno 3000 draws very little current when it's idle, but as far as I can remember it draws something 250 - 300 mA when it's communicating with the GSM network. Four modems sounds like an external power supply will be a good idea.

Hi,

Indeed, they've been running for 10 hours straight without any problems on the new (external powered) hub.

Pfew, glad the solution proved to be this simple

thnx!