This article is an evaluation on how to use the hardware and software setup of the iButtons for use with a personal computer with and operating system for Microsoft Windows. The quick start identifies the needed hardware and outlines a step by step instruction for hardware connection and software installation that includes a demonstration of the OneWireViewer program.

These products are intended for personal computers so they can easily read or write to an iButton device. A demonstration software like the OneWireViewer program will allow the user to read and write from iButtons via a PC using Windows XP or higher OS that has a USB port. The viewer also requires additional drivers for the PC to communicate with the adapter which is downloadable free. There is even a section that tells the limitations on writing the EPROM-based iButtons. The PC should support the Sun MicroSystems’s Java program for it to run.

To communicate with the iButton require an adapter, reader/probe and a window based PC or Laptop. The company has two model kits that include a starter kit and another with a temperature logger.

Here are the steps to take, first is the java software installation that is at least version 5 or higher. To be sure, go to the java website and click the auto detect and from there you can get the latest version. Next is to download the OneWireViewer and 1-Wire Drivers Bundled software. A pull down menu is available to get the proper programs that you need then install them. Plug in the DS9490R# USB adapter to the PC and complete the installation. This will allow the communication of the 1-Wire drivers with the computer via USB port. Start the program of the OneWireViewer then connect the iButton and Reader. It can read multiple network device that is plug in at the same time. Next is to start the OneWireViewer, if you come across any problem just go to their technical support and they will help.

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