Instructions for Using the Prolific PL2303TA Programming Cable on Windows 11
If you are using a Prolific PL2303TA-based programming cable, such as the programming cables for the BR and MB series radios, on Windows 11, you may encounter issues because the latest Windows Update driver (V3.9.3.0) no longer supports this chipset. Follow these steps to ensure proper operation:
Step 1: Download the Compatible Driver
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Download the older Prolific PL2303D driver from this link.
After installation, it should display as V3.9.0.2 in Device Manager.
Step 2: Remove the Newer Driver Completely
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Open Device Manager and locate the Prolific USB-to-Serial device under Ports (COM & LPT).
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Right-click the device and select Uninstall Device.
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Check the box for Delete the driver software for this device, then confirm.
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Repeat this process if multiple instances of the newer driver exist.
(You may need to do this more than once if Windows installed the driver multiple times.)
Step 3: Manually Install the Compatible Driver
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Unplug the cable, then plug it back in.
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When Windows prompts to install the driver, manually point it to the downloaded driver (V3.9.0.2).
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To do this:
a. Right-click the device in Device Manager and select Update Driver.
b. Choose Browse my computer for drivers.
c. Navigate to the folder where you extracted the downloaded driver.
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Step 4: Prevent Windows Update from Reinstalling the Newer Driver
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If Windows Update automatically reinstalls the unsupported driver later, you will need to:
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Rollback the driver by opening Device Manager, right-clicking the device, selecting Properties, and going to the Driver tab, then clicking Rollback Driver.
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Check the option that says the newer driver doesn’t work when prompted by Windows.
(This should help prevent Windows from attempting to update the driver again.)
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Notes for Other Windows Versions
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The PL2303TA programming cable works without issues on Windows 7, 8, and 10 using the standard Prolific driver.
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On these versions of Windows, you can download and use the installer from this link.
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After installation, the driver version will display as V3.8.41.0.
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On Windows 11, the same installer results in the unsupported V3.9.3.0 driver.
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By following these steps, your Prolific PL2303TA-based programming cable should work correctly on Windows 11.
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