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USB Direct Connection

Use a direct USB connection when you want to configure a single device. For devices that use single-wire data communication (such as ESCs or Lightheads), a USB Dongle like the SIGSA OS1 USB Link is required to establish communication.

Supported Devices​

The following devices support USB Direct Connection:

ESCs (AM32 protocol)

  • KRIOS™ MINI
  • KRIOS™
  • ARES
  • AJAX
  • AJAX HD

Lightheads (Astrata™ protocol)

  • ESCORT™ MK2

Beacons (Astrata™ protocol)

  • WATCHMAN™ GK1 MK2

When to Use​

  • Single device configuration via USB cable or USB Dongle
  • Bench testing
  • When the device is not installed in a vehicle

Steps​

  1. Connect the device to your computer:
    • For standard USB devices: Use a USB cable
    • For single-wire devices: Connect via a USB Dongle (e.g., SIGSA OS1 USB Link)
  2. Click Connect in the top navigation bar.
  3. Your device's serial port will appear in the port list — select it.
  4. Set the connection method to Direct.
  5. Select the communication protocol from the available options:
    • AM32 — For AM32-based ESCs
    • Astrata™ — For Astrata-compatible devices
  6. Click Connect.

The Configurator performs a handshake with the device, reads its information, and takes you to the Device page.

SIGSA recommends using the OS1 USB Link for maximum compatibility and reliability when connecting to single-wire devices.

  • Maximum compatibility — Optimized for SIGSA devices
  • Reliable firmware updates — Ensures stable data transfer during flashing
  • Safe configuration — Minimizes risk of data corruption
Third-Party Dongle Risk

Using third-party USB dongles may risk:

  • Data corruption during firmware updates
  • Configuration errors
  • Device bricking — In severe cases, improper communication can render the device unusable

For the safest experience and best results, always use the SIGSA OS1 USB Link.

Important Notes​

  • With a direct USB connection, only one device is connected at a time.
  • Make sure to use a data-capable USB cable (not charge-only).
  • The device must be powered on before connecting.

Troubleshooting​

IssueSolution
No serial ports appearVerify the USB cable is firmly connected to both the device and your computer. Try a different USB port.
Port appears but connection failsCheck that no other application (terminal, other configurator) is using the same serial port. Close any other applications and try again.
Connection drops immediatelyTry a different USB cable — some cables are charge-only and don't support data.