The PLC (Program Link Cable) is used to program all IDS ignitions. The rectangular end (DB9 connector) is connected to the serial port* located on the back of your computer.  The round end (6 pin mini-din connector) attaches to the ignition or pin bed programmer.  Before an ignition can be programmed the IDS application must be configured.  You can down load the program here.  Once the program is loaded and is running go to the Config menu and chose Serial Port.  Press the Detect Ports button and pick the Serial Port (Com 1-6) that the PLC is connected to and press OK.  Be sure the DB-9 or rectangular end of the PLC is attached to the back of the computer (Do not plug the round 6 pin mini-din into the computer).  If there are multiple serial ports and you do not know which port the cable is attached to you may have to use trial and error or consult the computers documentation.  Once the port has been configured and the IDS application has been closed and restarted  you are ready to see if communication between the computer and ignition works.  You must have +12 VDC power supplied to the ignition during this operation.  

 Next go to the Help menu and and pick About Power Arc IDS.   Click on the Read button.

If the the values in the about box load then you are ready to program the ignition.  If you get an error message you may have to re-configure the serial port and/or check for connection problems.  Make sure there is power to the ignition, that the DB-9 connector is plugged into the correct serial port in the back of the computer and that the 6 pin round mini-din connector is plugged into the ignition or pin bed.   Restart the IDS application if you have to re-configure the serial port.  A detailed explanation of the IDS interface and features, including how to create a curve and program the ignition can be found here.

When finished programming the ignition remove the program cable.  The ignition should not be operated with the program cable inserted.  IDS C1 and C2 ignitions can only be reprogrammed by Power Arc dealers/distributors using a pin bed programmer.


* If you do not have a serial port you will have to purchase a  USB to Serial Adapter.  Many newer laptops do not have serial ports.   You can find USB to Serial Adapters at Best Buy, Circuit City, Radio Shack and other computer or electronics stores.