In this video, we explain the three ways to communicate from a computer to an embroidery machine: the communication driver, the Expert Stitch Manager, and the disk reader. We note that the communication driver is included with the Forte software, while Expert Stitch Manager is a separate optional software package. The communication driver provides a simple connection by using the computer's selected COM port.
When the Forte embroidery suite is installed, we automatically load the communication driver onto the computer, and its pop-up window appears on the desktop when the computer is turned on. To activate the communication port, we double-click the number box that matches the serial port connected to the communication cable. When selected correctly, the box background turns white and the number appears in black.
If we do not know which number matches the COM port, we go to Start, then My Computer, right-click the COM port, and open Properties. From there, we click Hardware, then Device Manager, locate Ports, and double-click to view the communication port number. After confirming the correct port number, we return to the communication driver window and double-click that number to activate it.
Once the correct number is selected, we click Shut Down and then OK. We then restart the communication driver by double-clicking the desktop shortcut to establish communication between the computer and embroidery machine. After confirming that the same port number is still active, we are ready to communicate.
Once your computer and machine are talking, stock up on the everyday essentials you'll need to actually run the job with embroidery supplies.