TK290 error and rain/dust "seal" question

[kevlar119]

Hi...I have a newer TK290 ..ser #603xxxxx that I am trying to program. I sometimes get a "check communication/port" error---nothing seems to help...it will write to radio every now and then...turn radio on, welcome message appears and then all ********* across LCD and a tone. Tried the AEB8 firmware...same results. Any suggestions? Also, did they stop using the rubber "seal/dust cover" around the toggle switch? I have an early production 290 that has it..this one doesn't -- bought this one new with all tape/plastic on it all. Any help/guidance is appreciated.

[azFIREguy]

using an aftermarket cable?