I downloaded the software to my laptop, connected the FC to it via the mini usb. Nothing the 2 lights at the bottom of the software page "red and blue" I think never came on. It would also not show my software version. If i clicked on a button on the software page, it just told me to connect the controller. I was not on the controller software update page. any ideas?

Did you download and install the DJI Wn Drivers too?
Is the remote on?

jamesnns@gmail. Posted at 2014-12-22 23:04
Did you download and install the DJI Wn Drivers too?
Is the remote on?

yes and yes

I know this is a stupid question, but is the Phantom connected to a battery?

So you "connected the FC to it via the mini usb" -- Hmmm, my Phantom 1 does not have a mini usb connector so it sounds like you plugged into the remote control and not the Phantom itself.  You'll need to fish the USB connector from out of the battery box before you put the battery in.  See Page 3 of PHANTOM_Advanced_Manual_en.pdf (dated 2013-03-22).

Seems he has an fc40 Gil.  There a micro USB underneath

jamesnns@gmail. Posted at 2014-12-23 21:35
Seems he has an fc40 Gil.  There a micro USB underneath

Hey Gil Yea it is an fc40.     okay got it to connect. i did not have the win drivers installed  oops my bad. Not sure if i want to upgrade the firmware, i have heard there have been some issues if one does do it. any thoughts on this out there

Do the update. There aren't any problems with it.