Common Connection Issue between GasLab® and CO2 Sensors
If your CO2Meter sensor module will not communicate with GasLab® Software on your Windows PC, the most common cause is incorrect or missing USB-to-UART drivers.
Windows needs to recognize the proper FTDI drivers to create a communication chain: USB → FTDI → UART → GasLab®.
These drivers create a virtual COM port that allows the software to communicate with the device.
If you plugged your sensor in before installing GasLab®, Windows may have installed the wrong drivers. Even after installing GasLab®, the system might still fail to recognize the device until you remove the incorrect drivers and reinstall the correct ones.
Read the full instructions here.
Verify you are running Windows XP/7/8/10 with Microsoft .NET framework. Otherwise, this solution will not work.
To install the new drivers, first we must uninstall the old drivers.
Step-by-Step Solution: Uninstall and Reinstall the Correct Drivers
Step 1. Remove Incorrect Drivers
- Close GasLab® and any unnecessary programs.
- Connect your CO2 sensor or device to your USB port.
- Open your PC’s Control Panel.
- Go to Device Manager.
- Expand Ports (COM & LPT) to see all communication ports.
- Right-click the COM port connected to your sensor and select Properties.
- Under the Driver tab, select Uninstall, then click OK.
- Unplug the USB cable, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in.
2. Install the Correct Drivers
- Make sure GasLab® is installed on your computer.
- Plug your sensor into a USB port (preferably powered).
- Wait for Windows to display “Device ready…”—this means the correct driver is installed.
- Restart GasLab® and allow it to acquire drivers and communicate with the device.
Your CO2 sensor should now be detected successfully.
Understanding COM Ports and USB Communication
A COM port (Communication Port) was originally the standard way to connect devices like keyboards, mice, and sensors to a PC via a serial port. Modern computers have replaced most serial ports with faster USB ports that send data in streams rather than bits.
Even though physical COM ports are rare today, Windows still uses virtual COM ports for USB devices. This allows dozens of devices to connect at once, but it also means that incorrect drivers can prevent communication.
Tip: If you use multiple devices or unpowered USB hubs, voltage limitations can cause connection issues. We recommend using a powered USB hub when connecting CO2Meter DevKits.
Related CO2 Sensor Products
Quick FAQ
Q: What driver does GasLab® need to detect my sensor?
A: It requires the FTDI USB-to-UART driver, which installs automatically when GasLab® is installed before connecting the device.
Q: Will this work on macOS or Linux?
A: No, these instructions are for Windows XP/7/8/10 only.
Q: What if my sensor still isn’t detected after reinstalling drivers?
A: Check your USB cable, try a powered USB hub, or contact CO2Meter Technical Support.
