Hmmm, it sounds like you are pretty close. Here are a few comments:
- The RAM locations contain the "working memory," so the settings take effect, regardless of the flash memory contents
- Are you allowing for the Tstall time between each 16-bit sequence?
- Are you raising the chip select line between each 16-bit sequence? You don't necessarily have to do this but that has helped some improve the noise immunity in their SPI link.
- Are you able to read back the DEC_RATE register value?
- What does the FNCTIO_CTRL register contain?
- What does the signal on DIO2 look like? Can you post a picture of the scope shot?
I hope that this helps and look forward to your response.
Best,
NevadaMark