B&B Electronics RS-485, RS-232, RS-422 User Manual

RRSS--223322 // RRSS--442222 // RRSS--448855

Muullttii--IInntteerrffaaccee

M

EEtthheerrnneett SSeerriiaall SSeerrvveerrss

MMooddeellss:: EESSPP990011,, EESSPP990011EE,, EESSPP990022,, EESSPP990022EE

International Headquarters

B&B Electronics Mfg. Co. Inc.

707 Dayton Road

Ottawa, IL 61350 USA

Phone [phone] -- General Fax [phone]

Website: www.bb-elec.com

Sales e-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

European Headquarters

B&B Electronics Ltd.

Westlink Commercial Park

Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland

Phone [phone] -- Fax [phone]

Website: www.bb-europe.com

Sales e-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

© B&B Electronics – October 2005

-- Fax [phone]

-- Fax [phone]

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

©

2004 B&B Electronics. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photography, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system without written
consent. Information in this manual is subject to change without notice, and does not represent a commitment on the part
of B&B Electronics.

B&B Electronics shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance, or
use of this manual.

All brand names used in this manual are the registered trademarks of their respective owners. The use of trademarks or
other designations in this publication is for reference purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by the
trademark holder.

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

ii Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Park – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.co

CHAPTER 4: USING ESP MANAGER........................................................ 21

TTaabbllee ooff CCoonntteennttss

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................I

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION..................................................................... 1

FEATURES......................................................................................................... 2

COMMUNICATION MODES ................................................................................ 3

Direct IP Mode ............................................................................................ 3

Virtual COM Mode...................................................................................... 3

Paired Mode ................................................................................................ 4

Heart Beat.................................................................................................... 4

SERIAL SERVER QUICK START GUIDE .............................................................. 5

Hardware Setup........................................................................................... 5

Software Installation.................................................................................... 6

Serial Server Configuration......................................................................... 6

Install Virtual COM Ports on PC................................................................. 7

Check Communications ............................................................................... 7

CHAPTER 2: MAKING THE HARDWARE CONNECTIONS .................. 9

PACKAGE CHECKLIST ....................................................................................... 9

ESP901/ESP902 CONNECTIONS, INDICATORS AND RESET SWITCH ................. 9

Indicator Lights.......................................................................................... 10

Ethernet Connector.................................................................................... 10

Power Connector....................................................................................... 10

Reset Button............................................................................................... 10

DIP Switches.............................................................................................. 11

Serial Ports................................................................................................ 12

SERIAL SERVER/PORT OPERATIONAL MODES ................................................ 12

Default Mode ............................................................................................. 13

Console Mode............................................................................................ 13

Upgrade Mode........................................................................................... 13

RS-232 Mode.............................................................................................. 13

RS-422 Mode.............................................................................................. 14

RS-485 Mode.............................................................................................. 14

SERIAL SERVER SERIAL PORT CONNECTOR PIN-OUTS .................................... 15

CHAPTER 3: INSTALLING THE VLINX ESP SOFTWARE.................. 17

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION.............................................................................. 17

Automatic Installation................................................................................ 17

Manual Installation.................................................................................... 17

Updating an Existing Installation.............................................................. 19

Opening the ESP Manager ........................................................................ 20

SOFTWARE SETUP........................................................................................... 22

SOFTWARE OVERVIEW ................................................................................... 23

Menus......................................................................................................... 23

Server Icons Pane...................................................................................... 25

Serial Server / Virtual COM Lists.............................................................. 25

Status Bar................................................................................................... 26

SEARCH FOR SERVERS .................................................................................... 26

CONFIGURE SERVER PROPERTIES ................................................................... 27

CHAPTER 5: CONFIGURING THE SERIAL SERVER PROPERTIES. 31

DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVER PROPERTIES ..................................................... 32

Server Name............................................................................................... 32

Serial Number............................................................................................ 32

Password.................................................................................................... 32

DHCP ........................................................................................................ 32

IP Address.................................................................................................. 33

Netmask...................................................................................................... 34

Gateway..................................................................................................... 34

MAC Address............................................................................................. 34

Version & Date.......................................................................................... 34

Link Status.................................................................................................. 34

Server Serial Port ...................................................................................... 34

Baud Rate................................................................................................... 34

Data/Parity/Stop........................................................................................ 34

Flow Control.............................................................................................. 35

TCP/UDP Protocol.................................................................................... 35

Serial Timeout............................................................................................ 35

TCP Alive Timeout..................................................................................... 36

Connection Mode....................................................................................... 36

Delimiter HEX 1 and Delimiter HEX 2...................................................... 36

Force Transmit........................................................................................... 36

Port Status.................................................................................................. 37

TCP/UDP Port........................................................................................... 37

Serial Port Mode........................................................................................ 37

Connection At ............................................................................................ 38

Max Connection......................................................................................... 38

Remote IP Address..................................................................................... 38

Update/Save............................................................................................... 38

CHAPTER 6: INSTALLING VIRTUAL COM PORTS ............................. 43

VIRTUAL COM PORT INSTALLATION ............................................................. 43

MATCHING THE SERIAL SERVER AND VIRTUAL COM PORT SETTINGS .......... 46

HARDWARE SETUP ......................................................................................... 21

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Table of Contents i

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

ii Table of Contents Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

CHAPTER 7: REMOVING VIRTUAL COM PORTS................................ 49

REMOVING THE VIRTUAL COM PORT WITH ESP MANAGER .......................... 49

REMOVING THE VIRTUAL COM PORT USING DEVICE MANAGER ................... 50

CHAPTER 8: UPGRADING THE SERIAL SERVER FIRMWARE........ 53

DOWNLOADING THE FIRMWARE ..................................................................... 53

UPGRADING VIA ESP MANAGER .................................................................... 53

Preparing the Software.............................................................................. 53

Upgrading the Firmware........................................................................... 54

CHAPTER 9: USING CONSOLE MODE.................................................... 55

CONSOLE MODE SETUP .................................................................................. 55

Navigating the Configuration Menus......................................................... 56

Using a Password...................................................................................... 57

CHAPTER 10: USING THE WEB SERVER............................................... 59

SETTING SERVER PROPERTIES ........................................................................ 59

CHAPTER 11: USING TELNET................................................................... 63

CONFIGURATION USING TELNET .................................................................... 63

Navigating the Configuration Menu .......................................................... 64

CHAPTER 12: ESP901 AND ESP902 TECHNICAL DATA...................... 67

APPENDIX A: RS-232 CONNECTIONS...................................................... 71

SERIAL SERVER DB-9 PIN-OUTS IN RS-232 MODE ......................................... 71

RS-232 Straight-through Cable Connections............................................. 72

RS-232 Crossover (null modem) Cable Connections................................. 72

RS-232 Straight-through DB-9 to DB-25 Conversion Connections........... 73

RS-232 Crossover DB-9 to DB-25 Conversion Connections..................... 73

RS-232 DTE Loopback Connections.......................................................... 74

APPENDIX B: RS-422 CONNECTIONS...................................................... 75

SERIAL SERVER DB-9 PIN-OUTS IN RS-422 MODE ......................................... 75

APPENDIX C: RS-485 CONNECTIONS...................................................... 79

SERIAL SERVER DB-9 PIN-OUT IN RS-485 MODE........................................... 79

APPENDIX D: NETWORK CONNECTIONS............................................. 81

STANDARD ETHERNET CABLE RJ-45 PIN-OUT................................................ 81

CROSSOVER ETHERNET CABLE RJ-45 PIN-OUT .............................................. 82

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Table of Contents iii

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

iv Table of Contents Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Introduction

Introduction

CChhaapptteerr 11:: IINNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOONN

VLINX Models ESP901 and ESP902 Ethernet Serial Servers provide

Ethernet to Serial connections for RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 devices.
The ESP901 features a single serial port and the ESP902 features two
serial ports. The serial ports can be accessed over a LAN/WAN using

Direct IP Mode, Virtual COM Port, or Paired Mode connections. The

10/100 Mbps Ethernet connection auto-selects 10BaseT or 100BaseTX
and indicates the type of connection with a bi-color link light.

Figure 1. VLINX ESP901 and ESP902 Ethernet Serial Servers

Features

• Multi-interface serial ports

o ESP901 and ESP902 Port 1 software selectable for RS-

232, RS-422, RS-485 (DIP Switch selects Console Mode)

o ESP902 Port 2 is RS-232 only

• 10/100 Mbps Ethernet with Auto Selection

• LAN and WAN Communications

• TCP or UDP Client or Server operation - configurable

• Software Support - Windows 98/ME/2000/XP or NT 4.0

• Firmware Upload for future revisions/upgrades

• Configuration of Ethernet and serial port settings can be

accomplished using any of four methods:

o VLINX ESP Manager Software for Windows allows

configuration via a network connection or directly from
the Ethernet port of a computer (using an Ethernet
crossover cable).

Web Server allows configuration via the network using

o

any web browser.

o

Telnet allows configuration via the network by accessing

the setup configuration menu.

o

Console Mode allows configuration through an RS-232

serial port in using a VT100 Terminal Emulation program
and an RS-232 crossover cable.

• Virtual COM Driver Software for Windows - installs virtual

COM ports, viewable in the Windows Device Manager under

Ports (COM & LPT). Virtual COM port provides access to any of

the ports on the ESP901 and ESP902, like any other serial port
(legacy, PCI, USB or PCMCIA) on the computer. Any program
running on the computer and using Windows-based COM ports
can access the serial devices attached to the

Serial Server. The

LAN becomes transparent to the serial device and the software
running on the PC.

• Heart Beat Connection - selectable protocol ensures reliable

communications in Virtual COM Port or Paired Connection
modes. This feature restores the connections if communications are
temporarily lost at either end due to loss of power or the Ethernet
connection.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 1 1

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

2 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Introduction

Communication Modes

Introduction

The ESP901 and ESP902 Serial Servers enable communication with
serial devices over a LAN or WAN. Serial devices no longer are
limited to a physical connection to the PC COM port. They can be
installed anywhere on the LAN using TCP/IP or UDP/IP
communications. This allows traditional Windows PC software access
to serial devices anywhere on the LAN/WAN network.

Direct IP Mode

Direct IP connections allow applications using TCP/IP or UDP/IP

socket programs to communicate with the asynchronous serial ports on
the

Serial Server. In this type of application the Serial Server is

configured as a TCP or UDP server. The socket program running on the
PC establishes a communication connection with the
The data is sent directly to and from the serial port on the server. When
using UDP protocol the server can be configured to broadcast data to
and receive data from multiple IP addresses.

Virtual COM Mode

Install Virtual COM Mode allows the user to add a driver, to provide a

virtual COM port on the computer. The new COM port shows up in the
Device Manager. Windows programs using standard Windows API
calls are able to interface to virtual COM ports. When a program on the
PC opens the new COM port, it communicates with the remote serial
device connected to one of the ports on the

After connection, the LAN is transparent to the program and serial
device. Applications are able to work just as if the serial device is
connected directly to a physical COM port on the computer. The virtual
COM port software converts the application’s data into IP packets,
sends it across the network to the
packet back to serial data and sends the data out a serial port located on
the

Serial Server.

Serial Server.

Serial Server.

Serial Server, which converts the IP

Paired Mode

Paired Mode is also called serial tunneling. In this mode any two serial

devices that can communicate with a serial link will be able to
communicate using two

Two

Serial Servers are connected to a network, one configured as a

TCP or UDP client and the other as a TCP/UDP server. When setting
up the server the remote IP address section must contain the address of
the client. This will allow the client’s IP address to pass the IP address­filtering feature of the server. Conversely, the Remote IP address of the
client must contain the server’s IP address. Both communication port
numbers must be the same.

Heart Beat

The Heart Beat protocol connection provides a reliable
communications connection in

Connection Mode. This feature restores the connection if

communications are temporarily lost at either end due to loss of power
or Ethernet connection.

Without this feature a device that loses a connection and stops
communicating would not be able to reconnect without human
intervention. A TCP data connection can be lost when there is a power
failure or temporary loss of an Ethernet connection on either the client
or server. If a loss occurs the Heart Beat feature will try to reconnect
the TCP data connection every five seconds until communications is
established again. The Heart Beat feature is available for use in

COM Port Mode and Paired Connection Mode. This is not available

when using a UDP application.

Serial Servers and the LAN.

Virtual COM Port Mode or with Paired

Virtual

To use this mode, the

Serial Server must be set to either TCP/server or

UDP/server with a designated communication port number. The virtual
COM driver is the TCP or UDP client.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 1 3

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

4 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Introduction

Introduction

Serial Server Quick Start Guide

For descriptive purposes this Quick Start Guide considers a typical
configuration consisting of a PC connected via an Ethernet LAN to an

ESP901 or ESP902 Serial Server connected to the RS-232 port of a
serial device.

Hardware Setup

Figure 2. Typical Hardware Setup

Step 1: Connect the Serial Server to the network using a standard

network cable.

Step 2: Connect the

device.

NNoottee::

If the serial device is configured as a DCE use a straight-through serial
cable. If the serial device is configured as a DTE use a crossover (null
modem) cable.

Step 3: Set all the DIP switches to the OFF position.

Step 4: Apply power to the

Serial Server to the RS-232 port on the serial

Serial Server.

Software Installation

Using the CD included with the Serial Server, install the VLINX ESP

Manager

software on the configuring computer.

Serial Server Configuration

Step 1: Open the ESP Manager software. It will automatically search

for any reachable (ESP90x) Serial Servers. A list of all Serial

Servers
Server List window.

Step 2: Double click the desired

up the

Figure 3. The Server Properties Window

Step 3: Change the Server Properties as required.

• Enable

• Obtain appropriate static

• Set the

• Set

connected to the LAN will appear in the Serial

Serial Server port on the list to bring

Server Properties configuration screen.

DHCP to allow the Serial Server to generate its

own IP address

OR

IP, Netmask and Gateway

addresses from your Network Administrator

(recommended)

Serial Port Mode property to RS-232 to match the

serial device connected to the Serial Server.

Baud Rate, Data/Parity/Stop, and Flow Control to

match the configuration of the serial device connected to
the

Serial Server port

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 1 5

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Step 4: When the parameters have been set, click

the prompts in the dialogue boxes,

Update. Following

Restart the Serial Server

and Search all reachable servers again.

6 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Introduction

Step 5: Re-enter Server Properties to verify the changes have taken

Introduction

effect, or to view/change the configuration of other ports. Each
port must be configured separately.

Install Virtual COM Ports on PC

Step 1: From the Windows Start menu, run the Install Virtual COM

Ports

utility included with the VLINX software,

Step 2: Search for all servers on the network

Step 3: Select a port and map it to an unused COM port (e.g. Port 15).

Configure it for TCP protocol and the appropriate IP address
(determined in the last section).

Figure 4. Configuring the Virtual COM Port

Check Communications

Step 1: From the Windows Start menu, run HyperTerminal

Step 2: Configure

configured in the last section (e.g. Port 15).

Step 3: Set

Baud Rate, Data/Parity/Stop, and Flow Control to match

the configuration of the serial device connected to the Serial

Server serial port.

Step 4: Communications with the serial device should now be

operational.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 1 7

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

HyperTerminal to connect using the COM port

8 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Making Hardware Connections

Making Hardware Connections

CChhaapptteerr 22:: MMAAKKIINNGG TTHHEE HHAARRDDWWAARREE

CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONNSS

Package Checklist

ESP901 and ESP902 Serial Servers are shipped with the following

items included:

9 ESP901 or ESP902 Serial Server Module
9 Power supply
9 This Operation Manual
9 CD-ROM disc with manual, VLINX ESP Manager and Virtual

COM Driver software for Windows 98/ME/2000/XP/NT 4.0

ESP901/ESP902 Connections, Indicators and
Reset Switch

Connectors, Indicators and Switches:

• Three indicator LEDs

• One Ethernet connector (RJ-45 female)

• A power connector

• A recessed reset switch

• Triple DIP switch

• ESP901: One serial port connector (DB-9M)

• ESP902: Two serial port connectors (DB-9M)

Indicator Lights

Light Indication
Power

Link

Ready

Red - power is applied
Yellow – 10BaseT Ethernet connection established

Green – 100BaseTX Ethernet connection established
Flashing Green – system is ready

Figure 5. Indicator Lights

Ethernet Connector

The Serial Server has a standard RJ-45 receptacle mounted in the top
edge of the chassis. The Serial Server can be connected to an Ethernet
hub, switch, or wall plate using a standard straight-through RJ-45
(male) Ethernet cable. To connect directly to an RJ45 Ethernet port on
a PC or laptop a crossover Ethernet cable must be used.

NNoottee::

Refer to Appendix D for details on Network Cables

Power Connector

Plug the ultra-miniature phone plug from the included power supply
into the power jack and then plug the supply in. When power is applied
the Red power light will illuminate. The tip of the power plug is
positive; the sleeve is negative.

Reset Button

This switch resets the unit, similar to the effect of removing/applying
power. The Reset switch is recessed to avoid accidental operation. To
reset the unit, insert a small plastic tool, press lightly and hold for three
seconds. The Link and Ready lights will go out and then come back on.

RJ-45
female

Reset

Off

Power jack

2.5 mm Tip (+)

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 2 9

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 6. Top View of ESP901 and ESP902 (when mounted vertically)

10 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Making Hardware Connections

DIP Switches

A triple DIP (dual inline package) switch allows the Serial Server to
be placed into
the ON position the Serial Server enters Console Mode, allowing
configuration of the Serial Server (using an RS-232 connection
through the serial port on the ESP901 or Serial Port 1 on the ESP902)
from a PC running a terminal program such as
the Serial Server enters Console Mode the Console Mode screen will
appear in the HyperTerminal program window. The serial port settings
must be 8-N-1 at 9600 baud.

Console Mode. When all three switches are moved into

HyperTerminal. When

Making Hardware Connections

Serial Ports

The ESP901 has one serial port. The port can be configured as a

Console Mode connection or as an RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485

interface to the Serial Server (if any of the DIP switches are in the
OFF position) using the ESP Manager software, via Telnet, or using
the

Web Server.

The

ESP902 has two serial ports. Port 1 operates the same as the

ESP901 serial port. Port 2 on the ESP902 is an RS-232 only interface.

The RS-232 interfaces are configured as DTEs. The connectors for all
ports are DB-9M.

Serial Port
DB-9 Male

Figure 8. The ESP901 Serial Port Connector

Figure 7. The Console Mode (Server) Screen in the

HyperTerminal Window

When any of the DIP switches are switched back to the OFF position,
the Serial Server will revert to the mode it was in before Console

Mode.

NNoottee::

The Serial Server can be put into Console mode using either of two
methods:

1. Switching all the DIP switches to the ON position

2. With any DIP switch in the OFF position set the Server

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 2 11

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Properties Console Mode field to Console and Update/Save the
configuration

Serial Port 1
DB-9 Male

Serial Port 2
DB-9 Male

Figure 9. The ESP902 Serial Port Connectors

Serial Server/Port Operational Modes

Using the ESP Manager the Serial Server can be put into Console

Mode, Default Mode

configured for RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 operation. The server also
can be put into
ON position.

12 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

or Upgrade Mode. The serial ports can be

Console Mode by placing all the DIP switches into the

Making Hardware Connections

Default Mode

Making Hardware Connections

RS-422 Mode

When

Default Mode is selected and the server properties are Updated

(

Saved) all the configuration settings return to their default values.

Console Mode

In Console Mode the Configuration Menu can be accessed from a PC
by connecting its RS-232 serial port to the ESP901 serial port or
ESP902 Serial Port 1. Since the computer is a DTE device, and the
serial ports are configured as DTEs (with DB-9M connectors), a null
modem crossover cable must be used.

In

Console Mode the default serial port settings are: 9600 baud, 8 data

bits, No parity, and 1 stop bit. From Windows, HyperTerminal with

VT100 terminal emulation can be used for Console Mode
configuration.

Upgrade Mode

In Upgrade Mode firmware can be uploaded from a PC via its serial
port to the ESP901 serial port or ESP902 Serial Port 1. Upgrading also
can be accomplished via the network connection, using the ESP
Manager software and a virtual COM port.

NNoottee::

Refer to Chapter 5 for details on Serial Server Configuration settings.
See Chapter 12 for Serial Server default parameters.

NNoottee::

Refer to Chapter 9 for details on Console Mode

In RS-422 Mode the currently selected serial port is configured as an
RS-422 interface supporting four RS-422 signal channels with full
duplex operation for

CTS (Clear To Send). The data lines are differential pairs (A & B) in

which the B line is positive relative to the A line in the idle (mark)
state. Ground provides a common mode reference. To use handshaking,
Flow Control must be set to RTS/CTS during configuration.

NNoottee::

Refer to Appendix B RS-422 connection pin-outs.

RS-485 Mode

In RS-485 Mode the currently selected port is configured as an RS-485
interface supporting transmit (TX) and receive (RX) signal channels
using 2-wire, half-duplex operation. The data lines are differential with
the Data B line positive relative to Data A in the idle (mark) state.
Ground provides a common mode reference.

NNoottee::

Refer to Appendix C for RS-485 connection pin-outs.

RS-485 Receiver Biasing

RS-485 Receiver Biasing

if the network does not supply it. Remove the two side-cover screws of
the

Serial Server, slide the cover off and re-position the bias jumpers

(shown open in the figure below) to enable biasing (shorting).

Receive, Transmit, RTS (Request To Send) and

can be implemented from the Serial Server

NNoottee::

Refer to Chapter 8 for details on Upgrade Mode

RS-232 Mode

In RS-232 Mode the currently selected serial port is configured as an
RS-232 interface supporting eight RS-232 signal lines plus Signal
Ground and is configured as a DTE, like a computer. Signals are single
ended and referenced to Ground. To use handshaking, Flow Control
must be set to RTS/CTS during Configuration.

NNoottee::

Refer to Appendix A for RS-232 connection pin-outs.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 2 13

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 10. Internal Setting to Select RS-485 Bias

NNoottee::

(For more information on RS-485 Receiver Biasing, see B&B
Electronics RS-422/485 Application Note available at www.bb-

elec.com)

14 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Making Hardware Connections

Serial Server Serial Port Connector Pin-outs

Pin-outs for RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 operation are shown below.

Making Hardware Connections

DB-9M

Pin

1 Carrier Detect DCD In RXDA (−) -­2 Receive Data RXD In RXDB (+) --

3 Transmit Data TXD Out TXDB (+) Data B (+)

4 Data Terminal Ready DTR Out TXDA (−) Data A (−)

5 Signal Ground GND --- GND GND

6 Data Set Ready DSR In CTSA (−) --

7 Request To Send RTS Out CTSB (+) --

8 Clear To Send CTS In RTSB (+) --

9 Ring Indicator RI In RTSA (−)

Figure 11. Serial Connection Pin-outs for RS-232/RS-422/RS-485

RS-232

Signal Name

NNoottee::

For more information on RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 pin-outs, cable
connections and loopback connections refer to Appendices A, B and C

DTE RS-422 RS-485

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 2 15

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

16 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Installing the VLINX ESP Software

Installing the VLINX ESP Software

CChhaapptteerr 33:: IINNSSTTAALLLLIINNGG TTHHEE VVLLIINNXX

EESSPP SSOOFFTTWWAARREE

The Windows-based ESP Manager and Virtual COM Port software
makes configuration fast and easy. If using Windows, installing the
ESP Manager software and setting up virtual COM ports to configure
the

Serial Server is recommended.

Software Installation

The VLINX ESP software includes:

• ESP Manager

• Install Virtual COM Ports

• Uninstall Virtual COM Ports

Automatic Installation

Step 1a: Inserting the VLINX CD in the CD-ROM should

automatically launch the Install Shield Wizard.

Manual Installation

Figure 13. The Install Shield Wizard Window

Step 2: When the VLINX ESP Setup window appears, click Next.

Figure 14. VLINX ESP Setup Window

Step 1b: To manually start the software installation, from the

Windows Desktop, click Start button. At the Run command

line type

the CD ROM.)

Figure 12. The Run Dialogue Box

The Install Shield Wizard window will be displayed.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 3 17

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

D:start.exe then click OK. (D: is the drive letter for

Figure 15. The Choose Destination Window

Step 3: When Choose Destination Location appears, click Next.

The installation progress will be shown until complete.

18 Chapter 3 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Installing the VLINX ESP Software

Installing the VLINX ESP Software

The recommended procedure is to Remove all installed components
first. Once the software has been removed, Install the new software.

Opening the ESP Manager

Step 5: If the Serial Server is not already connected to the network or

to the Ethernet port on the computer, connect it. Set all the
DIP switches to the OFF position. Apply power.

The

Power indicator should light red, the Link light should

indicate which type of Ethernet connection has been made and
the

Ready LED will flash indicating configuration can begin.

Figure 16. The Install Shield Wizard Complete Window

Step 4: Click Finish when the Install Shield Wizard Complete

dialogue appears. When finished, dialogue box will close.

Updating an Existing Installation

If an older version of the ESP Manager software is already installed,
the

Modify, repair or remove the program window will appear when

the installation process is initiated:

Step 6: Start the

Start → Programs → B&B Electronics → VLINX → ESP
Servers → VLINX ESP Manager

As soon as the

Server and after a few seconds the Serial Server List will

display all (ESP90x)

ESP Manager software. In Windows Desktop, click:

.

ESP Manager opens it will initiate Searching

Serial Servers on the network.

Figure 18. ESP Manager Displaying all ESP90x Serial Servers

Figure 17. The InstallShield Wizard Modify, Repair or Remove Screen

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 3 19

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

20 Chapter 3 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using ESP Manager

Using ESP Manager

CChhaapptteerr 44:: UUSSIINNGG EESSPP MMAANNAAGGEERR

The ESP Manager software allows:

• Searching for servers connected to the network

• Displaying and changing the configuration of those servers

• Installing virtual COM ports on a computer

• Displaying and configuring virtual COM ports

• Uninstalling virtual COM ports on a computer

• Upgrading the

• Monitoring Port Status

• Saving and Loading Configuration Files

Hardware Setup

Step 1: Connect the Serial Server to the LAN or to a computer

Ethernet port. Set all the DIP switches on the
the OFF position

Serial Server firmware

Serial Server to

Figure 20. Direct Ethernet Connection using a Crossover Cable

NNoottee::

Use an Ethernet Crossover Cable if connecting directly to a computer
LAN card.

Step 2: Apply power. The red Power indicator will light, the Link

indicator lights when an Ethernet connection is made, and the
Ready indicator will flash.

Figure 19. Ethernet Connection via a LAN

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 4 21

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Software Setup

Step 3. To run the ESP Manager, from the Windows Desktop click:

Start → Programs → B&B Electronics → VLINX → ESP
Servers → VLINX ESP Manager

As soon as the

Server and after a few seconds the Serial Server List will

display all (ESP90x)

22 Chapter 4 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

ESP Manager opens it will initiate Searching

Serial Servers on the network.

Using ESP Manager

Figure 21. The VLINX ESP Manager Window

Software Overview

The VLINX ESP Manager window provides the following information:

Menus (Server, View, Exit, Help)

•

Server Icons (Firmware Upgrade, Virtual COM Configuration,

•

Searching Server, Uninstall Virtual COM, Monitor Port Status)

Serial Server / Virtual COM Lists

•

•

Software Status (Ready, Updating, Searching, etc)

Menus

Using ESP Manager

• Searching Server - Searches for Serial Servers on the network

and brings back configuration information that will be displayed in
the

Server Properties window.

Uninstall Virtual COM - Allows virtual COM ports to be

•

uninstalled from the ESP Manager window.

Monitor Port Status - Brings up a screen that displays the

•

following information associated with the selected serial port:

o Serial TX: Displays the number of bytes of data sent to

the

serial device since the IP connection was established.

o Serial RX: Displays the number of bytes of data received

from the connected

serial device since the IP connection

was established.

o DTR/RTS: The

DTR/RTS Port Status indicator displays

the current logic state of the DTR and RTS hardware
handshake (output) lines for the selected

Serial Server

port (1 = asserted, 0 = not asserted).

o DCD/DSR/CTS: The

DCD/DSR/CTS Port Status

indicator displays the current logic state being received on
the DCD, DSR and CTS hardware handshake (input) lines
for the selected

Serial Server port (1 = asserted, 0 = not

asserted)

o Status: Indicates whether the client software has made a

connection with the

Serial Server.

o IP Address: Displays the IP address of the connected

client when there is a client connection

Save Configuration File - Allows the user to save the current

•

configuration information to a file with a .vcom extension.

Load Configuration File - Allows the user to load a configuration

•

file.

Server

• Firmware Upgrade - Used when downloading new firmware to

the Serial Server.

NNoottee::

See Chapter 8 for more information on upgrading firmware.

• Virtual COM Configuration - Selects the Virtual COM List.

Double clicking on any COM port in the

Virtual COM List brings

up a window that allows changing the virtual COM settings such
as

Flow Control, Protocol, IP address, and Port Number. Virtual

COM settings must match

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 4 23

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Serial Server port settings.

View

Provides three viewing options for the ESP Manager screen:

Toolbar – allows the toolbar (directly under the menu bar) to be

•

viewable or hidden

Status Bar – allows the Status Bar (at the bottom of the screen to

•

be viewable or hidden

Split – allows the position of the split between the Icons pane and

•

the Virtual COM List / Serial Server List panes to be dragged
horizontally using the mouse

24 Chapter 4 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using ESP Manager

Exit

• Allows you to Exit the ESP Manager program

Help

• Accesses the About vcomui dialogue box, which indicates the

software version number

Using ESP Manager

• Port - Displays the port number for each Serial Server port.

Flow Control - Indicates what type of flow control is configured

•

for each port.

Status - Indicates whether each port is currently In Use or Not

•

Used.

Server Icons Pane

Firmware Upgrade, Virtual COM Configuration, Searching Server,
Uninstall Virtual COM and Monitor Port Status can also be selected

using icons located in the left window.

Serial Server / Virtual COM Lists

To make management of lists of serial server easier, lists can be sorted
by clicking on any tab heading. Scrolling bars facilitate scrolling
through long lists.

Serial Server List

• Server Name - Displays the name of the Serial Server. The name

is listed once for each port.

IP Address - Displays the IP Address for the Serial Server. All

•

ports in a Serial Server have the same the same IP address.

Protocol - Displays the currently selected TCP or UDP mode for

•

the Serial Server.

Port - Displays the port number for each Serial Server port.

•

COM Name - Displays the name of the computer COM port

•

mapped to each Serial Server port. If no computer port has been
mapped it displays Not mapped.

Status - The Status indicates the mapped virtual COM port

•

condition.

o

Not Connected is shown when a program does not have the

port Open.

o

Connected is shown when that mapped port is Open for use.

Status Bar

Displays the current status of the software in the bottom, left corner of the
screen

• Ready

• Updating

• Searching reachable servers…

Search for Servers

Upon opening the ESP Manager software it will automatically
execute Searching Server and search for all reachable ESP90x
serial servers.

Step 4: To manually initiate a search for servers, click Searching

Servers (under the Servers menu or the icon on the left side

of the screen). The

It provides two options for searching for servers on the
network:

 Specify the IP Address of the Serial Server
 Search all reachable servers

Search Setup box will appear.

Virtual COM List

• COM Name - Displays the number of the COM port mapped to

each

Serial Server port.

IP Address - Displays the IP Address for the Serial Server. All

•

ports in a

Protocol - Displays the currently selected TCP or UDP mode for

•

the

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 4 25

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Serial Server have the same IP address.

Serial Server.

Figure 22. The Search Setup W indow

26 Chapter 4 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using ESP Manager

Step 5: Enter the IP Address assigned to the desired Serial Server or

click Search all reachable servers, then OK. IP Address is
used to find Serial Server units that are not on the same

subnet. (Routers on the network will block the standard
broadcast used to find servers if

Search all reachable servers

is selected.) The user must set an IP address that conforms to
the LAN addressing scheme.

Using ESP Manager

The Searching window is shown until all active

Servers on the LAN are listed in the Serial Server List

window.

Figure 23. The Search VLINX ESP Dialogue Box

Configure Server Properties

The Server Properties window displays the current
configuration properties for the currently selected server.

Step 6: To open the Server Properties window, highlight the Serial

Server in the Serial Server List window, double-click to

open.

The

Server Properties window is used to configure and store

the Server configuration settings. Details for setting Properties
are described in the next chapter.

Serial

Figure 24. The Server Properties Window

NNoottee::

ESP Manager Navigation:

Step 7: After configuring as needed, click Update to store the

- Use the mouse to select the property and parameters or

- Tab to move to the next property

- Tab+Shift to move back to previous property

- Arrows to move between properties or change values or

- Enter to select update or cancel

contents of the current property

configuration in the server. The following window will
appear:

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 4 27

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 25. The Restart Dialogue Box

Step 8:

Click Yes to restart. The following dialogue box will appear:

28 Chapter 4 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using ESP Manager

Figure 26. The Restarting Dialogue Box

After eight seconds a dialogue box will ask whether you want to search
for all reachable servers again.

Figure 27. The Server Search Dialogue Box

While the Serial Server is searching for all reachable servers the
following dialogue box appears:

Using ESP Manager

Figure 28. The Search VLINX ESP Dialogue Box

After that port has been updated you may want to re-enter Server

Properties

to verify the changes have taken effect, or to
view/change the configuration of other ports. Each port must
be configured separately.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 4 29

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

30 Chapter 4 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Server Properties Configuration

Server Properties Configuration

Description of the Server Properties

CChhaapptteerr 55:: CCOONNFFIIGGUURRIINNGG TTHHEE

SSEERRIIAALL SSEERRVVEERR PPRROOPPEERRTTIIEESS

The VLINX Serial Server can be configured using any of four different
user interfaces: the
the Web Server. The Server Properties described in this chapter can
be changed from any of these user interfaces.

ESP Manager software, Console Mode, Telnet or

Figure 30. ESP Manager Server Properties Window

Server Name

This field displays the name that has been assigned to the Serial

Server

. A new Server Name of up to 16 characters can be entered. If
more than one Serial Server is connected on the LAN it is
recommended that a new name be assigned to each. When the ESP

Manager

and IP Address allowing the user to distinguish between Serial

Servers.

finds a Serial Server on the LAN it displays the server name

Figure 29. The Four Methods of Configuring Server Properties

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 5 31

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Serial Number

Each Serial Server has a unique serial number. This is fixed and
cannot be changed.

Password

Entering a password activates a security feature on the Serial Server.
Once a password is entered it will be required to access the menu and
make changes.

DHCP

DHCP servers are a part of numerous LAN management systems. The
DHCP field provides two choices:
normal, or default, setting. When enabled, the
DHCP request to the DHCP server, which will assign a dynamic IP

32 Chapter 5 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Disable and Enable. Disable is the

Serial Server will send a

Server Properties Configuration

address, net mask, and gateway to the Serial Server. If a DHCP server
is not available on the network the Serial Server will time out after 10
seconds and the default values will remain. When DHCP is enabled, the
IP Address, Netmask and Gateway fields become inaccessible and
cannot be changed by the user.

NNoottee::

A dynamic address assigned by the DHCP server may change if the
server loses the Ethernet connection or power is removed. The host
(client) communication software requests a connection to the specific
IP address of the serial server. If the DHCP reassigns a different IP
address the software will not be able to communicate with the
hardware. Therefore, using a static IP address is recommended.

IP Address

Software or hardware attempting to access the Serial Server via the
network must know the IP Address of the server. A static IP address is
retained and remains the same each time the server is powered up or
starts/restarts. The default IP address of the
a label on its bottom cover. Entering an appropriate address in the IP
Address field and updating the server will change the server’s IP
address. The network administrator can assign/establish the static
address or group of addresses to be used.

The IP Address of the

Serial Server can be confirmed using the DOS

Ping command.

Serial Server is printed on

Server Properties Configuration

Netmask

The default LAN netmask is configured for a Class C address. The user
may change this. Default is 255.255.255.0

Gateway

The Gateway IP address allows users to access the Serial Server from
outside the LAN.

MAC Address

The MAC address is fixed and cannot be changed. It is assigned in the
factory. Every Ethernet device manufactured has it own unique MAC
address.

Version & Date

The currently loaded version of the firmware, and when it was released,
is shown here.

Link Status

Link status automatically displays the type of Ethernet connection. It
will either display 10BaseT or 100BaseTX in full duplex or half
duplex. This will depend on the LAN, switches, hubs used in the LAN
topology.

NNoottee::

To use Ping to check for communications:

- Access a DOS window (in XP click Start, then Run)

- At run prompt enter: CMD

- In the DOS window enter: Ping xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (IP address for the
server to be confirmed)

- The command will return the Ping results indicating 4 replies

Figure 31. Pinging using the DOS command window

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 5 33

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Server Serial Port

This field indicates the number of the port for with Serial Server
properties are currently being displayed. Changing the number in this
field will cause all the other fields to display the properties for the
specified port. Note, however, that before changing ports, any changes
to properties must be

Updated (Saved) or the Serial Server will not

retain them.

Baud Rate

The serial port baud rate on the Serial Server must match the serial
baud rate of the connected device unless using Virtual COM Mode. In
Virtual COM Mode the software program will establish serial settings.

Data/Parity/Stop

Set this to match the data format used by the serial device connected

when Virtual COM Mode is not being used.

34 Chapter 5 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Server Properties Configuration

Flow Control

The Flow Control setting must match the requirements of the serial
device connected.

Server Properties Configuration

communications are ideal for 5 seconds the Serial Server will reset and
make itself available for another client connection.

TCP Alive Timeout

NNoottee::

Select None when setting the port as RS-485 or 4-wire RS-422.

TCP/UDP Protocol

Select TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or UDP (User Datagram
Protocol) protocol. If the application does not require a UDP
connection, select TCP. TCP guarantees reliable communication with
error checking whereas UDP provides faster transmission.

UDP Mode

When UDP mode is chosen the Serial timeout, TCP alive timeout,

Connection mode, Connection at, Max connection and
Remote IP address fields are replaced with the following

four fields:

Source IP address range. In this mode the server can be

configured to broadcast data to and receive data from multiple
IP addresses. Four IP address range fields are provided.

Figure 32. The Server UDP Configuration Screen

Destination IP address range, Port number and

The Serial Server monitors TCP activity. If TCP activity stops for the
length of time specified in this field the connection will be closed. This
field can be set to any value between 0 and 255 minutes. If zero, or no
value, is entered into this field the server will not disconnect.

Connection Mode

The Connection Mode field has three options: Server, Client and

Client (no heartbeat). When Client or Client (no heartbeat) is

selected the Connection at field automatically becomes active
(allowing the user to select

• When using the

• When using a

• When using

TCP or UDP Socket program, select Server.
Paired Mode communication between two serial

Power up or Data Arrival).

Virtual COM Port feature, select Server.

servers set up one as a Client and the other as a Server.

• When connecting to a server that does not support

select

Client (no Heartbeat).

Heartbeat,

Delimiter HEX 1 and Delimiter HEX 2

These fields allow the user to enter two ASCII characters (in hex
format) that delimit the beginning and end of a message. When a
message with both these delimiters is received at the serial port, the
data contained in the serial buffer is placed in an Ethernet packet and
sent out the Ethernet port. If only Delimiter 1 is set (Delimiter 2 is zero
or blank), upon receiving Delimiter 1 the ESP901/902 will put all the
data in the serial buffer in an Ethernet packet and send it out the
Ethernet port. If serial data greater than 1 kilobyte is received it will
automatically be placed in an Ethernet packet and sent out the Ethernet
port .

Force Transmit

Serial Timeout

Default for the Timeout property is 0, or no timeout. Setting Timeout
to any value between 1 and 65535 seconds activates it. If
set to 5 seconds and the Serial Server is configured as a Server, the

Client makes a connection and communications starts. If

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 5 35

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Timeout is

This field allows the user to set a maximum time limit between
transmissions of data. The value set in this field multiplied by 100 ms
determines the Force Transmit time. When the elapsed time reaches the
time configured in this field, the TCP/IP protocol will pack the data
currently in the serial buffer into a packet and send it out the Ethernet
port.

36 Chapter 5 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Server Properties Configuration

Port Status

This field indicates whether a serial port is connected via the Serial

Server

to a virtual COM port of a device on the network.

Server Properties Configuration

• RS-485 – When this mode is selected and the server updated, the

selected serial port will become an RS-485 serial port on the
server.

TCP/UDP Port

This sets the port number for connection. The default port number for
the ESP901 is 4000. The default port numbers for the ESP902 are 4000
and

4001 for serial ports 1 and 2 respectively.

In all modes of operation,
set in the Server Properties menu must match the Virtual COM or
socket software port settings.

NNoottee::

Example: The Virtual COM default setting is TCP/UDP Port 4000. If
the port # property is changed to 4001, the virtual COM port will have
to be changed to 4001. The hardware settings can be changed from
the ESP Manager or Console Configuration Menu. The Virtual COM
port setting also can be changed within the Device Manager of the
computer on which it is installed.

Serial Port Mode

Serial Port Mode allows configuration of the serial server for the

following modes of operation:

Console – When this mode is selected and the server is updated, a

•

PC running a communications program such as HyperTerminal can
communicate with the
port (the serial Port on ESP901 or Port 1 on ESP902), displaying
the

Server Properties screen and allowing configuration of the

server and its ports.

Upgrade – When this mode is selected and the server is updated,

•

firmware can be uploaded into the

Mode serial port or a virtual COM port mapped to the number of

the Console Mode serial port.

Default – When this mode is selected and the server is updated, it

•

will revert the server to its default configuration.

RS-232 – When this mode is selected and the server updated, the

•

selected serial port will become an RS-232 serial port on the
server.

RS-422 – When this mode is selected and the server updated, the

•

selected serial port will become an RS-422 serial port on the
server.

Connection At

When the Connection Mode field is set to Client or Client (no

heartbeat)

, this field becomes active, allowing the ESP901/902 (acting

as a client) to connect to the server either on Power up or on Data

Arrival (first character arriving).

Direct IP or Virtual COM, the port number

Max Connection

This field allows the user to configure the Serial Server to have up to
eight TCP connections.

Remote IP Address

This is a security feature activated by entering the IP address of the
desired client. The Serial Server will only communicate with the listed
IP address and all other requests for connection will be filtered out. The

Serial Server must be set up as a TCP or UDP Server to use this

feature. The default setting is 255.255.255.255.

If

Paired Mode is not being used, do not change this setting until the

application has been tested and is communicating properly. Then
activate the address filtering feature.

Serial Server via the Console Mode serial

Serial Server via the Console

Update/Save

Server properties must be updated separately for each serial port.
Updating varies slightly depending on which of the four configuration
user interfaces are used.

Updating the Server Properties in ESP Manager

From the Server Properties screen, click the Update button to store
the configuration settings for the currently selected port. The vcomui
dialogue box will appear indicating you must restart the device before
the new settings will take effect. Click

NNoottee::

Refer to Chapter 1 Paired Mode

Yes.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 5 37

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

38 Chapter 5 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Server Properties Configuration

Server Properties Configuration

After that port has been updated you may want to re-enter Server

Properties to verify the changes have taken effect, or to view/change

the configuration of other ports. Each port must be configured
separately.

Figure 33. The Restart Dialogue Box

The following dialogue box will appear:

Figure 34. The Restarting Dialogue Box

After eight seconds a dialogue box will ask whether you want to search
for all reachable servers again.

Figure 35. The Server Search Dialogue Box

While the Serial Server is searching for all reachable servers the
following dialogue box appears:

Figure 36. The Search VLINX ESP Dialogue Box

Saving Configuration Data in Console Mode or Telnet

Saving (updating) server properties is done from the Configuration
screen. Access the Configuration screen by tabbing through the list of
screens on the left side of the window and highlighting

There are four options shown on the right side of the

Configuration.

Configuration

screen: Save, Default, Running and Reset. Use Tab, Backspace, or

arrow keys to move the cursor to the option position, then press Enter.

Console Mode and Telnet Configuration Screens

•

• Save stores the configuration data to the

Serial Server flash

memory and resets it.

• Default restores the configuration data to factory default settings.

• Running restores the configuration data to the last values stored in

the flash memory.

• Reset re-boots the

Serial Server, making it available for a client

connection.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 5 39

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

40 Chapter 5 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Server Properties Configuration

Web Server Interface

• The Web Server interface provides the same updating options as

Console Mode and Telnet. These are located at the bottom of all

three Web Server pages. If a field is changed, you must click Save
before leaving that page or the changes will be ignored.

Server Properties Configuration

Figure 37. The Web Server Page

NNoottee::

If you leave any Web Server page without saving, any changes you
have made will be ignored.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 5 41

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

42 Chapter 5 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Installing Virtual COM Port

CChhaapptteerr 66:: IINNSSTTAALLLLIINNGG VVIIRRTTUUAALL

Installing Virtual COM Port

The program searches the LAN for all available Serial Servers. When
complete, the Found Server window appears and displays a list of the
servers that were found.

CCOOMM PPOORRTTSS

The Virtual COM Port feature allows Windows platform software, using
standard API calls, to be used in an Ethernet application.

The

Install Virtual COM Port software adds a Serial Server (COM#) port to the

computer. This shows up in the Device Manager. The COM number can be
selected from a list of available numbers. For example, in a computer already
having a COM1 and COM2, COM3 to COM 254 are available for the

Server. It is recommended that COM Port 5 or higher be selected. The virtual

COM port looks like a standard COM port to most Windows based applications
which allows the software to open a connection with the serial port located
anywhere on the LAN/WAN. When using the virtual COM port the

Server is configured as a TCP or UDP Server.

Virtual COM Port Installation

Step 1: From the Windows Desktop, click:

Start → Programs → B&B Electronics → VLINX → ESP
Servers → Install Virtual COM

Search Setup window will appear.

The

Serial

Serial

Figure 39. The Found Server Window

Step 3: Select the Serial Server at the IP Address to be mapped to a

virtual COM port, then click

OK.

Step 2: Select the

OK.

Search all reachable servers check box, then click

Figure 38. The Search Setup Window

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 6 43

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 40. The COMInst Window

Windows XP provides a notice concerning Windows Logo testing for

XP.

44 Chapter 6 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Installing Virtual COM Port

Installing Virtual COM Port

Matching the Serial Server and Virtual COM Port
Settings

The settings of the virtual COM ports in the Device Manager and the

Serial Server Configuration Menu must match. If the settings do not

match, the virtual COM ports will not work. If these settings are
changed in the
virtual COM port. It will not change the settings stored in the

Server. Use the ESP Manager to change the Serial Server settings.

Device Manager, it will only affect the operation of the

Serial

Figure 41. The Windows Logo Testing Window

This XP feature simply indicates that these drivers have not yet
undergone the Microsoft testing procedures required to use the
Windows XP Logo on the packaging. Driver compatibility is not
affected.

Step 4: Click

Continue Anyway to proceed with the installation.

The Protocol TCP/UDP, IP Address, and Port Number will mirror the
settings of the selected serial server.

Step 5: After setting all

ports, click

NNoottee::

PCs may have hardware COM ports and devices such as Modems, IR
ports or USB based COM ports that are not currently connected Try
selecting a COM number above COM4 if problems occur.

Serial Server serial ports as virtual COM

Cancel on the Found Server form.

The default Flow Control setting is None. RTS/CTS can be selected if
used by the application program and serial hardware. The Serial Server
must be set to match.

Step 1: Use Device Manager to

View New Ports

Confirm the virtual COM ports in the Device Manager.

Step 2: Double-click

Ports to view the list of COM port numbers.

The installed Virtual COM port will be displayed as

#).

Figure 42. The Device Manager Window

VLINX ESP (COM

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 6 45

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Step 3: In the Device Manager select a VLINX ESP COM#. Double-

click it to bring up the

46 Chapter 6 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Properties window.

Installing Virtual COM Port

.

Figure 43. The VLINX ESP (COM3) Properties Window

Step 4: Click the Configuration or Port Settings tab. This screen

allows the settings to be changed if necessary. Click Cancel to
keep the existing settings.

Installing Virtual COM Port

Step 5: Click

OK to change the settings. Use Refresh in the Device

Manager if Windows does not auto refresh.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 6 47

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

48 Chapter 6 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Removing Virtual COM Ports

Removing Virtual COM Ports

CChhaapptteerr 77:: RREEMMOOVVIINNGG VVIIRRTTUUAALL CCOOMM

PPOORRTTSS

The ESP Manager software Uninstall Virtual COM Port feature will
remove a mapped COM port in the Device Manager of Windows 2000 and
XP operating systems. It may also be removed in the Device Manager of
Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000, and XP. Windows 98 users also will find a

Remove Virtual COM feature in the Programs file.

Removing the Virtual COM port with ESP
Manager

Step1: From the Windows Desktop, click:

Start → Programs → B&B Electronics → VLINX → ESP Servers →

VLINX ESP Manager

Step 2: In the

Highlight the mapped COM port number to be removed.

ESP Manager window click the Virtual COM List tab.

Step 3: Click the

for conformation. Click
procedure.

Figure 45. The vcomui Dialogue Box

Uninstall Virtual COM icon. The Manager will ask

OK to complete the uninstall

Removing the Virtual COM Port using Device
Manager

Figure 44. The ESP Manager Window

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 7 49

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

NNoottee::

The screen shots were taken from a Windows XP operating system

Step 1: From the Windows Desktop click:

Start → Settings → Control Panel.

Step 2: Click the

50 Chapter 7 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

System icon when the manager window opens.

Removing Virtual COM Ports

Removing Virtual COM Ports

Figure 46. The Control Panel Window

Step 3: Click Device Manager in the Systems Properties window. In

the Device Manager dialogue click the + next to Ports (COM

LPT) to expand.

Figure 47. The Device Ma nager Window

Figure 48. Confirm Dev ice Removal

Step 5: click OK to proceed.

The

ESP COM # will be removed and the Device Manager window will

refresh and display the remaining COM ports

Step 4: Highlight ESP (COM #) to be removed and click the Action tab

at the top of window, then click

Removal

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 7 51

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

window will appear.

Uninstall. A confirm Device

52 Chapter 7 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Upgrade Mode

Upgrade Mode

Step 4: Click Yes on the vcomui dialogue to restart the Serial Server.

CChhaapptteerr 88:: UUPPGGRRAADDIINNGG TTHHEE SSEERRIIAALL

SSEERRVVEERR FFIIRRMMWWAARREE

New Serial Server firmware updates may become available through
the B&B Electronics website for installation into the server. The
firmware can be uploaded using either a virtual COM port connection
or hardware COM port connection.

Downloading the Firmware

Make a folder to receive the firmware file. Download the compressed
software file from the B&B Electronics website. Unzip or expand the
file into the (.hex) format so it will be ready to upload to the

Server

.

Upgrading Via ESP Manager

The ESP Manager software can upload new firmware to the server
using a direct PC connection via the ESP901 serial port, ESP902 Port
1, or using a virtual COM port.

NNoottee::

If connecting directly to a computer serial port, use a null modem
cable between the Computer RS-232 port and the ESP901 serial port
or ESP902 Port 1.

Serial

Upgrading the Firmware

Step 5: Double-click the Firmware Upgrade icon (or click the Server

menu and Firmware Upgrade)

Step 6: In the

Upgrade window, click Browse. The Open dialogue

box will appear. Locate the folder on your PC that contains the
firmware .hex file.

Select the file and click Open. The Open

dialogue box will disappear.

Step 7: In the

Upgrade window select the serial port to be used in

transferring the firmware.

a. If connected directly from the PC to a

Serial Server

port it will typically be COM1 or COM2

b. If using a virtual COM port to upgrade via the

network, identify the virtual COM number and

Step 8: Click

Step 9: In the

bits

, Parity and Stop bits to the same values as set up in the

Server Properties window. Click OK.

address mapped to Port 1 on the

Upgrade

Port Settings window set the Bits per second, Data

Serial Server.

Preparing the Software

Step 1: In the ESP Manager Serial Server List window, double click

the server to be upgraded. The Server Properties window will
appear.

Step 2: If using a direct connection to upload the firmware to the

Server, set the baud rate to 115200 for the fastest possible

upload.

Step 3: Set the

Serial Port field to upgrade and click the Update

button. (Ensure that the DIP switches on the ESP901 or
ESP902 are all in the OFF position.)

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 8 53

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Serial

Figure 49. The Port Settings Window

Step 10: Upgrade progress will be shown until the Upgrade finished!

message is shown. Click OK.

54 Chapter 8 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using Console Mode

Using Console Mode

Navigating the Configuration Menus

CChhaapptteerr 99:: UUSSIINNGG CCOONNSSOOLLEE MMOODDEE

Before the Serial Server is installed on a LAN the Console Mode can
be used to change the settings from the defaults. The
shipped in the RS-232 Mode. Connect a crossover (null modem) cable
between the COM port on the computer and the appropriate serial port
on the

Serial Server.

NNoottee::

See Chapter 5 for details of each Server Property Settings.

Console Mode Setup

Step 1: Apply power to the Serial Server. The power and ready LED

will light.

Step 2: Using a VT100 Terminal emulation program (typically

HyperTerminal in Windows) open the computer COM port

connected to the
cable).

Step 3: In the HyperTerminal

Serial Server (via an RS-232 crossover

Port Settings window set:

Serial Server is

There are six Console Mode screens: Server, Network, Serial Mode,

Operation, Monitor and Configuration. Tab, Back Space and arrow

keys can be used to highlight the desired function on the screen list.
Pressing
screen. The configuration fields can be changed by pressing

Enter moves the cursor to the first field with the current

Enter and

selecting from the list that appears. The Escape key moves the cursor
back to the screen list. Pressing the Space Bar refreshes the page.

o Baud rate: 9600
o Data bits: 8
o Parity: None
o Stop bits: 1
o Flow control: None

Click

OK

Step 4: Ensure all the DIP switches are in the ON position.

Step 5: To view the

Configuration Menu, press the space bar. The

menu will appear within a few seconds.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 9 55

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 50. Console Mode Configuration Screens

56 Chapter 9 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using Console Mode

Step 5: Once all the changes have been made move to the

Configuration screen, select Save and press Enter.

Figure 51. Saving and Re starting the Configuration

The restart message will appear.

Using Console Mode

Step 6: Select

Yes to save changes. This is necessary to write the

settings to the server.

Using a Password

If a password is used it must be entered before the Configuration screen
can be seen. If the server is accessed with a password but no changes
are made,

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 9 57

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Reset to end before disconnecting.

58 Chapter 9 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using the Web Server

CChhaapptteerr 1100:: UUSSIINNGG TTHHEE WWEEBB

SSEERRVVEERR

The Web Server can be used to configure the Serial Server from any
web browser software (such as Internet Explorer). Server properties can
be set up using three browser pages.

NNoottee::

See Chapter 5 for details on Server Properties.

Setting Server Properties

In Internet Explorer type the IP Address of the Serial Server into the
address field near the top of the window and press the Enter key. The
following window will appear:

Using the Web Server

Navigate and change properties as required using the mouse and
keyboard.

To change serial port properties, click
browser window. The following page will appear:

Serial Port on the left side of the

Figure 52. The Web Server Page

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 10 59

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 53. The Web Server Serial Port Properties Page

To change other operational properties, click Operation on the left side
of the browser window. The following page will appear:

60 Chapter 10 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using the Web Server

Using the Web Server

Figure 54. The Web Server Operation Page

Click Save to store changes to the Serial Server. Settings for each Port
must be saved separately.

NNoottee::

If new property settings are not saved before leaving this page they
will not take effect.

Return to the main Server page by clicking on Server on the left side of
the browser window.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 10 61

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

62 Chapter 10 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using Telnet

Using Telnet

Step 6. The Telnet window will open (unless the server is still in

Console mode) and the Server screen will appear.

CCHHAAPPTTEERR 1111:: UUssiinngg TTeellnneett

Telnet can be used to configure the Serial Server from any PC on the

LAN. The

Telnet window displays the same configuration information

shown in Console Mode and allows server properties to be configured.

NNoottee::

See Chapter 5 for details on Server Properties.

Configuration Using Telnet

Step 1: Ensure the PC and Serial Server are connected to the LAN.

Step 2: Apply power to the

will light.

Step 3: If the DIP switches on the

position (Console mode), switch them to the OFF position.
The Serial Server will revert to the operational mode it was in
before the switches were all set to ON.

Step 4: From the

Desktop, click Start, then Run. The Run dialogue

box will open.

Step 5: Type in

Telnet and the IP address of the Serial Server to be

configured, then click OK.

Serial Server. The power and ready LED

Serial Server all are in the ON

Navigating the Configuration Menu

There are six Telnet screens: Server, Network, Serial Mode,

Operation, Monitor and Configuration. Tab, Back Space and arrow

keys can be used to highlight the desired function on the screen list.
Pressing
screen. The configuration fields can be changed by pressing Enter and
selecting from the list that appears. The
back to the screen list. Pressing the Space Bar refreshes the page.

Enter moves the cursor to the first field with the current

Escape key moves the cursor

Figure 55. The Run dialogue box

NNoottee::

The Serial Server must be in RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485 mode before you can
Telnet to it and access the configuration screens. If it was last configured in
Console mode you may not be able to access it using Telnet. In this case use
ESP Manager, Console Mode or Web Server for configuration.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 11 63

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

64 Chapter 11 Manual Documentation Number: ESP904-0504

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Using Telnet

Using Telnet

Step 7: Once all the changes have been made move to the

and select

Enter. The restart message will appear.

Save field

Figure 57. Saving and Restarting the Configuration

Step 8: Select Yes to save changes. This is necessary to write the

settings to the server. The Telnet window will disappear.

Step 9: To view the changes re-enter

Telnet and re-establish

communications. The configuration menu will appear and
display the current settings.

Figure 56. Telnet Configuration Screens

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 11 65

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

66 Chapter 11 Manual Documentation Number: ESP904-0504

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

ESP901 and ESP902 Technical Data

ESP901 and ESP902 Technical Data

CChhaapptteerr 1122:: EESSPP990011 aanndd EESSPP990022

Hardware and
Included
Accessories

Dimensions
Power &

Environment

Indicators

Connectors

TTEECCHHNNIICCAALL DDAATTAA

ESP901 and ESP902 Serial Server modules
Power Supply: 12 VDC/500mA (tip positive/sleeve

negative)

Power Plug: (Area Dependent: North America

120VAC/60Hz, Europe/United Kingdom
220/240VAC/50Hz)

Manual: Paper copy of this manual, PDF available
CD-ROM disc: VLINX ESP Manager and Virtual COM

Driver software for Windows
98/ME/2000/XP/NT 4.0

ESP901/ESP902: 3.35 x 4.5 x 0.90 in (8.5 x 11.5 x 2.3 cm)
Power

Requirements: 12 VDC @ 200 mA (ESP901), 300mA

(ESP902)

Operating
Temperature: -10 to +80 °C

Storage
Temperature: −20 to 85 °C

Humidity: 0 – 90% non-condensing
Approvals: CE, FCC
Power: Red LED
Link: Yellow or green LED (10BaseT or 100

BaseTX)

Ready: Flashing green LED
Ethernet: Single RJ-45 female
Serial: ESP901: one 9 pin D-type male (DB-9M)

DTE (software selectable as RS-232, 422, or

485)

ESP902: Two 9 pin D-type male (DB-9M)

DTE, Port 1 - software selectable as RS-232,
422 or 485, Port 2 – RS232 only

DC Power: Ultra-miniature phone jack (2.5mm), Tip (+),

Sleeve (−)

Serial Interfaces

Memory
Network

Communications
Protocols

Configuration
Options

Optional
Accessories

RS-232(DTE): TXD, RXD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR, DCD,

GND

RS-422: TXDB(+), TXDA(−), RXDB(+), RXDA(−),

RTS(+), RTS(−), CTS(+), CTS(−) and GND

RS-485: Data B (+), Data A (–) and GND
Baud Rate: 110 bps to 230.4 k bps
Parity: None, Even, Odd, Mark, Space
Data Bits: 5, 6, 7 or 8
Stop Bits: 1, 1.5 or 2
Serial Memory: 8K bytes per port
LAN: 10/100 Mbps Auto-detecting 10 BaseT or

100 BaseTX

TCP, IP, ARP, DHCP, Telnet, HTTP, UDP,
ICMP

Console Mode: Using RS-232 with VT100 emulation (All

DIP Switches ON

Telnet Mode: Using HyperTerminal with VT100 emulation
ESP Manager: Using Windows 98/ME/2000/XP or NT

software

Web Server: Using a standard web browser such as

Internet Explorer

232NM9 Null Modem Crossover Cable for DTE to DTE

connection

DRAD35 DIN Rail mounting clips for 35mm DIN Rail
ERS35 one-meter length of steel 35mm DIN Rail

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 12 67

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

68 Chapter 12 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

ESP901 and ESP902 Technical Data

ESP901 and ESP902 Technical Data

Default Server
Settings

Server Name ESP901 or ESP902
Serial Number: xxxxxxxxx (printed on bottom of

unit)
Password: Blank
DHCP: Disable
IP Address: 192.168.0.1
Net Mask: 255.255.255.0
Gateway: 192.168.0.254
MAC Address: Fixed – see bottom label
Version&Date: current firmware version number &

date

Serial server port: 1
Baud Rate: 9600
Data//Stop: 8-1
Parity: None
Flow Control: None
TCP/UDP Protocol: ESP901 serial port: TCP
ESP902 Ports 1 & 2: TCP
Serial timeout: 0 seconds
TCP alive timeout: 0 minutes
Connection Mode: Server
Delimiter HEX 1: 00
Delimiter HEX 2: 00
Force transmit: 0 ms
TCP/UDP port: ESP901 serial port: 4000

ESP902 Port 1: 4000
ESP902 Port 2: 4001

Serial port mode: Console
Max connection: 1
Remote IP Address: 255.255.255.255

Figure 58. Dimensional Diagram of the ESP901

Figure 59. Dimens ional Diagram of the ESP902

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Chapter 12 69

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

70 Chapter 12 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

RS-232 Connections

RS-232 Connections

RS-232 Straight-through Cable Connections

AAPPPPEENNDDIIXX AA:: RRSS--223322 CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONNSS

Serial Server DB-9 Pin-outs in RS-232 Mode

RS-232

Signal Name

Carrier Detect In DCD 1

Receive Data In RXD 2

Transmit Data Out TXD 3

Data Terminal Ready Out DTR 4

Signal Ground --- GND 5

Data Set Ready In DSR 6

Request To Send Out RTS 7

Clear To Send In CTS 8

Ring Indicator In RI 9

Figure 60. RS-232 Connections in a DB-9 Connector

DTE RS-232 DB-9M

Pin

In the RS-232 mode, the Serial Server’s ports are configured as DTEs
like a computer. If the device connected to the

Serial Server is

configured as a DCE use a straight through cable wired as shown
below:

RS-232 Signal Names DB-9

Carrier Detect CD 1 1 CD

Receive Data RD 2 2 RD

Transmit Data TD 3 3 TD

Data Terminal Ready DTR 4 4 DTR

Signal Ground/Common GND 5 5 GND

Data Set Ready DSR 6 6 DSR

Request to Send RTS 7 7 RTS

Clear to Send CTS 8 8 CTS

Ring Indicator RI 9 9 RI

Figure 61. Straight-through DB-9 to DB-9 RS-232 Ser ial Cable

Connections DB-9

Pin#

Signal

Pin#

RS-232 Crossover (null modem) Cable Connections

When connecting to a PC or another DTE device, use a crossover cable
(also called a null modem cable).

RS-232 Signal Names DB-9

Pin#

Carrier Detect CD 1 1 CD

Receive Data RD 2 2 RD

Transmit Data TD 3 3 TD

Data Terminal Ready DTR 4 4 DTR

Signal Ground/Common GND 5 5 GND

Data Set Ready DSR 6 6 DSR

Request to Send RTS 7 7 RTS

Clear to Send CTS 8 8 CTS

Ring Indicator RI 9 9 RI

Connections DB-9

Pin#

Signal

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Appendix A 71

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Figure 62. Crossover DB-9 to DB-9 RS-232 Serial Cable

72 Appendix A Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

RS-232 Connections

RS-232 Connections

RS-232 Straight-through DB-9 to DB-25 Conversion
Connections

Figure 63. DB-9 to DB-25 Straight-through Cable Connections

RS-232 Crossover DB-9 to DB-25 Conversion Connections

RS-232 DTE Loopback Connections

Figure 65. Loopback Connections for RS-232

For Transmit and Receive loopback, connect only those lines.

When Flow Control setting on the

Serial Server is set for RTS/CTS,

those lines must be looped. Usually DTR and DSR must also be
looped. The Flow Control setting for the program must match the
Server settings. The CD connection is needed by some terminal
programs to simulate Carrier.

Figure 64. DB-9 to DB-25 Crossover (null modem) Cable Connections

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Appendix A 73

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

74 Appendix A Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

RS-422 Connections

AAPPPPEENNDDIIXX BB:: RRSS--442222 CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONNSS

Serial Server DB-9 Pin-outs in RS-422 Mode

RS-422

Signal Name

Receive Data A (−) In RXDA (−) 1

Receive Data B (+) In RXDB (+) 2

Transmit Data B (+) Out TXDB (+) 3

Transmit Data A (−) Out TXDA (−) 4

Signal Ground --- GND 5

Clear to Send A (−) In CTSA (−) 6

Clear to Send B (+) In CTSB (+) 7

Request to Send B (+) Out RTSB (+) 8

Request to Send A (−) Out RTSA (−) 9

Figure 66. RS-422 Connections in a DB-9 Connector

Direction

RS-422

DB9M

Pin

RS-422 Connections

Serial Server pin-out

RS-422 Signal Names DB-9

Receive A (-) RXDA(-) 1 TDA(-)

Receive B (+) RXDB(+) 2 TDB(+)

Transmit B (+) TXDB(+) 3 RDB(+)

Transmit A (-) TXDA(-) 4 RDA(-)

Ground GND 5 GND

Clear to Send A (-) CTSA(-) 6 RTSA(-)

Clear to Send B (+) CTSB(+) 7 RTSB(+)

Ready to Send B (+) RTSB(+) 8 CTSB(+)

Ready to Send A (-) RTSA(-) 9 CTSA(-)

Figure 67. RS-422 Connections with Flow Control

In the RS-422 mode, TXD lines are outputs and RXD lines are inputs.
Connect the
serial device, and the Serial Server TXDA(-) to the RXDA(-) of the
serial device.

If Flow Control is set for RTS/CTS, connect the
RTSB(+) to CTSB(+) of the serial device and the Serial Server

RTSA(-) line to the CTSA(-) of the serial device. Connect from the

Serial Server CTSB(+) line to the RTSB(+) of the serial device and

from the Serial Server CTSA(-) line to the RTSB(+) line of the serial
device.

in RS-422 mode

Serial Server TXDB(+) line to the RXDB(+) line of the

RS-422

Device

Connections Signal

Pin#

Serial Server

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Appendix B 75

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

If connecting to Receive Only RS-422 devices, connect from the

Serial Server TXDB(+) and TXDA(-) lines to the receive pairs on all

serial devices.

Ground is signal ground and provides a common mode reference for
the RS-422 Receiver and Transmitters.

NNoottee::

The RS-422 mode can be used for full duplex 4-wire RS-485 operation
provided that the serial server is acting as a sole master connecting to
all the slave devices, and all slave devices share the Receive signal
lines to the master. Set Flow Control for none, and omit connections to
RTS/CTS line pairs.

76 Appendix B Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

RS-422 Connections

RS-422 Connections

Figure 68. Loopback Connections for RS-422

The RS-485 Connections are half duplex, either Receive or Transmit,

so another half duplex device must be used to check operation.

Figure 69. RS-422 Connection w ith No F low Control

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Appendix B 77

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

78 Appendix B Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

RS-485 Connections

RS-485 Connections

AAPPPPEENNDDIIXX CC:: RRSS--448855 CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONNSS

Serial Server DB-9 Pin-out in RS-485 Mode

RS-485

Signal Name

Data B (+) In/Out DATA B (+) 3

Data A (−) In/Out DATA A (−) 4

Signal Ground --- GND 5

Figure 70. DB-9 Pin-out in RS-485 Mode

NNoottee::

Some RS-485 devices are marked opposite the RS-485 standard,
which defines the Data B line as positive relative to Data A during a
Mark state before enabling the transmitter, and after transmitting
before tri-stating. If an RS-485 device does not respond, try swappi ng
the Data B and Data A lines.

Direction RS-485 DB9M

Pin

Figure 71. 2-wire RS-485 Connection

To connect 4-Wire RS-485 devices, the RS-422 Mode can be used
provided the

Serial Server will be connected as a master in a single

master system. If using multiple masters, the Serial Server cannot be
used, as it does not tri-state the transmitter in RS-422 mode.

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Appendix C 79

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

80 Appendix D Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

Network Connections

AAPPPPEENNDDIIXX DD:: NNEETTWWOORRKK

CCOONNNNEECCTTIIOONNSS

Network Connections

Crossover Ethernet Cable RJ-45 Pin-out

Standard Ethernet Cable RJ-45 Pin-out

RJ-45 Pin Signal Wire Color RJ-45 Pin

1 TX+ White-Green 3

2 TX+ Green 6

RJ-45 Pin Signal Wire Color RJ-45 Pin

1 TX+ White-Green 1

2 TX+ Green 2

3 RX+ White-Orange 3

4 Not used Blue 4

5 Not used White-Blue 5

6 RX- Orange 6

7 Not used White-Brown 7

8 Not used Brown 8

Figure 73. Pin-out for a Crossover Ethernet Cabl e

3 RX+ White-Orange 1

4 Not used Blue 4

5 Not used White-Blue 5

6 RX- Orange 2

7 Not used White-Brown 7

8 Not used Brown 8

Figure 72. Pin-out for a Standard Ethernet Cable

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m Appendix D 81

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

82 Appendix D Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

International Headquarters

B&B Electronics Mfg. Co. Inc.

707 Dayton Road

Ottawa, IL 61350 USA

Phone [phone] -- General Fax [phone]

Website: www.bb-elec.com

Sales e-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

European Headquarters

B&B Electronics Ltd.

Westlink Commercial Park

Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland

Phone [phone] -- Fax [phone]

Website: www.bb-europe.com

Sales e-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

© B&B Electronics – October 2005

-- Fax [phone]

-- Fax [phone]

Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m 83

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

84 Manual Documentation Number: ESP901-902_4105m

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Pk – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com