Are you having trouble connecting your Canon 7D Mark II DSLR USB 3.0 camera to your computer using a tethering software such as Lightroom, Capture One or other tethering software programs?
Here are some quick troubleshooting tips:
Are you using a Mac or MacBook Pro and your computer is utilizing USB 3.0 ports?
The main issue may be Apple is currently on USB3 v1.0 protocol and the Canon 7D Mark II is v1.1 which is causing connectivity and power issues when going longer distances. Canon is using USB3 v1.1 and until Apple upgrades their firmware, connectivity issues may persist.
SOLUTION: Many people have had success using a USB3 self-powered hub. In addition, make sure you have the latest Canon firmware installed.
QUICK TIP: If you are not sure which USB protocol ports your computer has, visit ‘Does my Computer have USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 Ports‘ article. In addition, always refer to your computer manufacturer manual to find which ports are which.
Are you using a Mac or MacBook Pro and your computer is utilizing USB 2.0 ports?
The Canon 7D Mark II uses USB3 which requires more power than USB2 and is especially noticeable when tethering longer distances? Some computers have underpowered USB2 ports and are not compatible with USB3.
SOLUTION #1: If your computer’s ports are USB2 try the other USB2 ports on the computer to see if it works better. Not all USB ports on a computer have the same output power and may differ. If you have an iPad, check which USB2 port on the computer will actually charge the iPad. They will all sync, but typically only one port will charge the iPad; try tethering to that USB port. If you do not have an iPad trial and error is the best method.
SOLUTION #2: If Solution #1 doesn’t fix the issue, many people have had success using a self-powered USB2 hub.
Other Solutions
There are also a few other important notes for USB 2.0 & USB 3.0 cable users:
- Dropped tethered connection while shooting
- Capture One issues while tethering
Click here for the ‘Important Note for USB 2.0 & 3.0 Cable Users’ article.
For FireWire 800/400 cable users, there are some items to note regarding:
- cable quality & direction
- FireWire repeaters
- CF/SD card
- power
Click here for the ‘Important Note for FireWire 800/400 Cable Users’ article.
It is also important to keep a secure connection from your tethering cables to your camera. The JerkStopper Cable Management solutions can help with that.
Have another problem? Contact Tether Tools for more assistance and troubleshooting solutions.
