Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to common questions about QuickPort.

What is QuickPort?

QuickPort is a two-part solution: a USB-C dongle that connects to your iPhone, and an iOS app that provides a terminal interface. Together, they let you access UART, I²C, and RS-485 interfaces on embedded devices — no laptop required.

Do I need both the app and the dongle?

Yes. The app provides the user interface and terminal features, while the dongle provides the physical connection and protocol bridging. One won't work without the other.

Which iPhones and iPads are supported?

QuickPort requires a USB-C port, so it works with iPhone 15 and later, iPad Pro (USB-C models), iPad Air (5th gen and later), and iPad mini (6th gen and later). Devices with Lightning ports (iPhone 14 and earlier) are not compatible.

What iOS version do I need?

The QuickPort Terminal app requires iOS 16.0 or later. iOS 17.0 or later is recommended for the best experience.

Connection & Setup

Why does the app show "Disconnected"?

This is normal! The app shows "Disconnected" until you physically plug in the QuickPort Dongle. Once connected, the app automatically detects the dongle and updates the status.

Do I need to install drivers?

No. The dongle uses CDC-ECM (USB Ethernet), which is natively supported by iOS. Just plug it in and you're ready to go.

Can I use a USB-C hub or adapter?

Some USB-C hubs that support USB Ethernet pass-through may work, but we recommend a direct connection for best reliability. Hubs are not officially supported.

Does QuickPort work over wireless / Bluetooth?

No. QuickPort is designed as a wired solution for maximum reliability and speed. It uses a physical USB-C connection.

Hardware & Electrical

What voltage levels does the dongle use?

The dongle operates at 3.3V logic levels for UART and I²C. It is not 5V tolerant — use a level shifter if your target device requires 5V logic.

What baud rates are supported?

The dongle supports UART baud rates from 300 bps to 921,600 bps. You can configure this in the QuickPort Terminal app.

Can the dongle power my target device?

The dongle provides a 3.3V output pin with a maximum of 100mA. This is enough for small sensors or microcontrollers, but larger boards should have their own power supply.

Is there ESD protection?

Yes, the dongle includes ESD protection on all interface pins. However, you should still follow standard anti-static precautions when working with electronics.

Software & Features

Can I log and export terminal output?

Yes. The QuickPort Terminal app supports session logging. You can export logs as plain text or CSV and share them via AirDrop, email, or Files.

Can I send hex data or binary commands?

Yes. The app supports both text and hex input modes. You can also save macros for frequently used commands.

Does the app support scripting or automation?

Not yet, but scripting and automation features are on the roadmap. For now, you can use macros to send predefined sequences.

How do I update the dongle firmware?

Firmware updates are delivered over-the-air via the QuickPort Terminal app. When an update is available, you'll receive a notification in the app.

Troubleshooting

The app doesn't detect my dongle. What should I do?

Try these steps:

  • Unplug and re-plug the dongle
  • Force-quit and relaunch the QuickPort Terminal app
  • Restart your iPhone
  • Try a different USB-C cable if you're using an adapter
  • Contact support if the issue persists

I'm not receiving data from my target device.

Check the following:

  • Verify baud rate, parity, and stop bits match your target
  • Confirm RX/TX pins are correctly connected (RX ↔ TX, TX ↔ RX)
  • Ensure your target device is powered and transmitting
  • Check that voltage levels are compatible (3.3V)
  • Try a loopback test (connect TX to RX on the dongle)

Can I use QuickPort with 5V devices?

The dongle uses 3.3V logic levels. If your target device uses 5V logic (e.g., some older Arduino boards), you'll need a bi-directional level shifter to avoid damaging the dongle.

Purchasing & Support

Where can I buy QuickPort?

QuickPort is available on our Buy page. We also run campaigns on Crowd Supply for early access and special pricing.

Is the app free or paid?

Pricing details will be announced soon. The app will be available on the App Store.

What's included with the dongle?

Each QuickPort Dongle comes with a USB-C cable, pin headers or connector (depending on model), and a quick-start guide.

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes. The QuickPort Dongle comes with a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects.

How do I get support?

Visit our Support page for troubleshooting guides and contact information.

Still have questions?

We're here to help. Reach out to our support team.

Contact Support