Black Box LS4103A User Manual

1000 Park Drive • Lawrence, PA 15055-1018 • 724-746-5500 • Fax [phone]

© Copyright 2005. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.

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SUPPORT

INFORMATION

Order toll-free in the U.S.: Call 877-877-BBOX (outside U.S. call 724-746-5500)
FREE technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax [phone]
Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [e-mail]

MARCH 2005

LS4103A

Pure Networking RS-232/422/485 to

Twisted-Pair Device Server

1

FCC AND IC RFI STATEMENTS/CE NOTICE

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

AND

INDUSTRY CANADA

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy, and if not
installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause interference to radio communication. It has been tested
and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device in accordance
with the specifications in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user at his own
expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary to correct
the interference.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation of Industry Canada.

Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique publié par Industrie Canada.

EUROPEAN UNION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

This equipment complies with the requirements of the European EMC Directive
89/336/EEC.

2

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM)

ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT

INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD

1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de
que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.

2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para
referencia futura.

3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de
operación deben ser respetadas.

4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.

5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo, cerca
de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca, etc..

6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales que
sean recomendados por el fabricante.

7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como sea
recomendado por el fabricante.

8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico más allá
a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro servicio deberá ser
referido a personal de servicio calificado.

9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no
interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama, sofá,
alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se debe colocar
en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los orificios de
ventilación.

10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de calor
como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos (incluyendo
amplificadores) que producen calor.

11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo del
tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el aparato.

3

NOM STATEMENT

12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la polarización
del equipo no sea eliminada.

13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no
sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos,
poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen del
aparato.

14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las
recomendaciones del fabricante.

15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas
de energia.

16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no sea
usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.

17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objectos liquidos no sean
derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.

18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:

A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u

B: Objectos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato; o

C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o

D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su

desempeño; o

E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.

4

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL

ST is a registered trademark of AT&T.

Pure Networking is a trademark of Black Box Corporation.

Telnet is a trademark of Telnet Communications, Inc.

Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the
trademark owners.

5

CONTENTS

Contents

Chapter Page

1. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2. Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.2 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.3 Typical Applications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2.4 What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3. Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

3.1 Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

3.2 Installing the Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

3.3 Powering On the Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.4 Connecting Copper Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.5 Connecting to the DB9 Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.6 Serial Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.7 Connection to Data Terminal Equipment (DTE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.8 Connection to Data Communications Equipment (DCE) . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

3.9 Ethernet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4. Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

5. Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

5.1 Configuring via the Console Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

5.1.1 HyperTerminal Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

5.1.2 Main Menu Configuration Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

5.1.3 System Information Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5.1.4 DHCP Configuration Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

5.1.5 RS-232 Configuration Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

5.1.6 Monitor Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

5.1.7 TFTP Firmware Upgrade Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.1.8 Load Factory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.1.9 System Restart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.2 Configuring via the Internet Browser Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.2.1 Home Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.2.2 Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

5.3 Configuring via CLI (Telnet) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

5.3.1 Remote Computer Login . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

5.3.2 Command Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Contents (continued)

Chapter Page

6. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

6.1 Calling Black Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

6.2 Shipping and Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

7

CHAPTER 1: Specifications

1. Specifications

Standards: IEEE 802.3 (10BASE-T Ethernet), IEEE 802.3u (100BASE-TX/Fast
Ethernet), EIA/TIA RS-232, EIA/TIA-574

Data Rate: Twisted-pair: 100 Mbps; Serial: 50–115.2 kbps (asynchronous)

Maximum Distance: Twisted-pair: RS-232: Up to 328 ft. (100 m);

RS-422, RS-485: Up to 0.8 miles (1.2 km)

Signals: RS-232: TxD, RxD, CTS, RTS, DTR, DSR, RI, DCD, GND;
RS-422: TxD+, TxD-, RxD+, RxD-, GND;
RS-485: Data+, Data-, GND

Configuration: Parity: None, odd, even, mark, or space;
Data bits: 7, 8;
Stop bits: 1, 2

User Controls: DIP-switch 1: Enables/disables console/data communication mode;
DIP-switch 2: Enables/disables RS-232;
DIP-switch 3: Enables/disables RS-422/485 (4-wire);
DIP-switch 4: Enables/disables RS-485 (2-wire);
DIP-switch 7: Enables/disables termination (TMR)

Connectors: (1) RJ-45 female, (1) DB9 female

Indicators: (5) LEDs: Lnk/Act, Act, Sys, 100, Pwr

Temperature Tolerance: Operating: 32 to 122°F (0 to 50°C);

Storage: -4 to +158°F (-20 to +70°C)

Relative Humidity: Operating: 10 to 80%, noncondensing;
Storage: 5 to 90%, noncondensing

Power: 100–240 VAC (12-VAC adapter @ 0.8 amps); 50–60 Hz

Size: 2.3"H x 7.4"W x 10.9"D (5.8 x 18.8 x 27.7 cm)

Weight: 0.4 lb. (0.2 kg)

8

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

2. Overview

2.1 Introduction

The Pure Networking™ RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-Pair Device Server provides an
RS-232/422/485 point-to-point connection over twisted-pair cabling. Each
connected device has an RS-232/422/485 interface. The servers enable industrial
serial devices such as milling machines, measurement instruments, and robots to
connect to LAN-based automation. Other devices typically found on campus
networks—such as card readers, code readers, lab equipment, medical equipment,
and other similar serial devices—can now instantly migrate to a TCP/IP network.

The server has one RJ-45 connector for linking to twisted-pair cable.

The server works in 2-wire half-duplex (RS-485) and 4-wire full duplex (RS-422/

485) asynchronous serial data transmission modes at data rates of up to 115.2 kbps.
And it gives you extended distances up to 0.8 miles (1.2 km) over 24 AWG using
RS-422/485.

A handy terminator feature improves signal quality and distance. Plus, LEDs give
you device status at a glance.

2.2 Components

The server’s front panel is shown in Figure 2-1. LED indicators display the server’s
and the network’s status. Table 2-1 describes the server’s front-panel indicators and
connectors. The numbers in Figure 2-1 correspond to the numbers in Table 2-1.

Figure 2-1. Front panel.

❶

❻

❷

❹

❸

❺

9

CHAPTER 2: Overview

Table 2-1. Front-panel components.

Indicator or Connector Function

10/100 Ethernet port This port is an autosensing RJ-45 female

Lnk/Act LED When the Link/Act LED is on, the switch’s

respective port is connected to the network.

When the Link/Act LED is blinking, the port is
transmitting or receiving data on the Ethernet
network.

When the Link/Act LED is off, no link is
connected.

Act LED When this LED is on, the server is receiving data

packets.

When this LED is off, the server is transmitting or
receiving RS-232/422/485 data packets.

100 LED When the 100 Mbps LED is on, the switch’s

respective twisted-pair port is connected to a
Fast Ethernet network.

When the 100 Mbps LED is off, the switch’s
respective port is connected to a 10-Mbps
Ethernet port.

Sys LED When the CPU is working, the System LED

blinks.

When this LED is continuously on or off, the
CPU is not working.

DB9 female serial port Connect the console to this port.

❶

❷

❸

❹

❺

❻

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

The server’s rear panel is shown in Figure 2-2. Table 2-2 describes the server’s rear
panel switches, indicator, and connector. The numbers in Figure 2-2 correspond to
the numbers in Table 2-2.

Figure 2-2. Rear panel.

Table 2-2. Rear-panel components.

Switch, Indicator, or Connector Function

DIP switches Set these switches to configure communication

parameters (see Tables 3-2 and 3-3).

Power LED This indicator lights when power to the server is

on.

Power Input Plug the power supply into this barrel power

connector.

2.3 Typical Applications

Figure 2-3 shows a typical application. In this example, an RS-232/422/485 to
Twisted-Pair Device Server connects to an industrial serial PC.

Figure 2-3. Female-to-male DCE to DTE wiring.

Table 2-3 shows the RS-232 wiring configurations for the application shown in
Figure 2-3.

Male

Fem ale

RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-

Pair Device Server (DCE)

Industrial serial PC

(DTE)

➐

➑

➒

➐

➑

➒

11

CHAPTER 2: Overview

Table 2-3. RS-232 cable and connector pinnings for DCE to DTE wiring.

Server (DCE) RS-232 Cable PC-COM1 (DTE)

DB9 Female Connection DB9 Male

PIN 1 PIN 1

PIN 2 PIN 2

PIN 3 PIN 3

PIN 4 PIN 4

PIN 5 PIN 5

PIN 6 PIN 6

PIN 7 PIN 7

PIN 8 PIN 8

PIN 9 PIN 9

Figure 2-4 illustrates another sample application. In this figure, an RS-232/422/
485 to Twisted-Pair Device Server connects to an industrial DCE device.

Figure 2-4. Female-to-male DCE to DCE wiring.

Table 2-4 shows the wiring configuration for the application shown in Figure 2-4.

Fem ale

RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-

Pair Device Server (DCE)

Industrial device

(DCE)

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Table 2-4. RS-232 cable and connector pinnings for DCE to DCE wiring.

Server (DCE) RS-232 Cable DCE Device

DB9 Female Connection DB9 Male

PIN 1 PIN 1

PIN 2 PIN 2

PIN 3 PIN 3

PIN 4 PIN 4

PIN 5 PIN 5

PIN 6 PIN 6

PIN 7 PIN 7

PIN 8 PIN 8

PIN 9 PIN 9

Figure 2-5 shows an RS-422/485 4-wire configuration example.

Figure 2-5. RS-422/485 4-wire application.

Ma l e

RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-

Pair Device Server (DCE)

RS-422/485 Device (DTE)

13

CHAPTER 2: Overview

Table 2-5. RS-422/485 4-wire cable and connector pinnings

for DCE to DTE wiring.

Server (DCE) RS-422/485 Cable RS-422/485 Device (DTE)

DB9 Female Connection 4-Position Terminal Block

PIN 1

PIN 2

PIN 3 RX+

PIN 4 TX+

PIN 5 RX-

PIN 6 TX-

PIN 7

PIN 8

PIN 9

CAUTION

When using an RS-422/485 serial cable to connect to a device, check for
the correct pin assignment and signal direction on the terminal plugs.
Otherwise, the transmission will fail.

Figure 2-6 shows an RS-422/485 2-wire configuration application.

Figure 2-6. RS-422/485 2-wire application.

Fem ale

Male

RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-

Pair Device Server (DCE)

RS-422/485 Device (DCE)

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Table 2-6. RS-422/485 2-wire cable and connector

pinnings for DCE to DCE wiring.

Server (DCE) RS-422/485 Cable RS-422/485 Device (DCE)

DB9 Female Connection 2-Position Terminal Block

PIN 1

PIN 2

PIN 3

PIN 4

PIN 5 B+

PIN 6 A-

PIN 7

PIN 8

PIN 9

2.4 What’s Included

Your package should contain the following items. If anything is missing or
damaged, please contact Black Box at 724-746-5500.

• (1) Pure Networking RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-Pair Device Server

• (1) power adapter

• (4) self-adhesive rubber feet

• (2) screws for wallmount installation

• This user’s manual on CD-ROM

15

CHAPTER 3: Installation

3. Installation

3.1 Location

The location you select to install the server may greatly affect its performance.
When selecting a site, consider the following rules:

1. Install the server in a fairly cool and dry place. See Chapter 1 for the
acceptable temperature and humidity operating ranges.

2. Install the server in a location free from strong electromagnetic field
generators (such as motors), vibration, dust, and direct exposure to sunlight.

3. Leave at least 3.9" (9.9 cm) of space at the server’s front and rear for
ventilation.

3.2 Installing the Server

Follow the instructions listed below to install the server on a desktop.

1. Place the server in a clean, flat, safe position with easy access to AC power.

2. Affix the four self-adhesive rubber feet to the server’s underside.

3. Plug the server’s AC power adapter into an available wall socket. (The green
Pwr LED on the rear panel should light.)

4. Connect cables from the network devices to the server’s front-panel ports.
(The green LNK LED should light.)

You can also mount the server vertically (for instance, on a wall). Simply use the
server’s underside as a template to measure and mark the holes’ position onto the
surface where you will install the server. Then use the two screws provided to
mount the server firmly in place.

WARNING

Install the server away from damp or wet locations, and away from very
hot surfaces. These environments can have a detrimental effect on both
the server and the cables. An ideal location is a cool, dry environment
such as a typical equipment room.

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

3.3 Powering On the Unit

The server uses a 12-VDC, 0.8-amp, 50–60-Hz external power supply.

1. Plug the power adapter’s cable directly into the connector on the server’s
back panel.

2. Plug the other end of the power adapter into an available wall socket.

3. As the server is powered on, verify that the Pwr LED is lit. If not, make sure
the power cable is correctly and securely plugged in.

3.4 Connecting Copper Cables

When connecting copper cable to the server’s 10/100BASE-TX port, be sure that
you use the correct type of connector (RJ-45). Follow the steps below to properly
connect copper cable.

1. Insert one end of Category 5 twisted-pair cable into an available RJ-45 port on
the converter and the other end into the network node’s port.

2. Check the corresponding port LED on the converter to make sure that the
connection is valid. (Refer to Chapter 4.)

3.5 Connecting to the DB9 Connector

Figure 3-1 illustrates the server’s DB9 connector.

Figure 3-1. DB9 female connector.

Table 3-1 describes the pins shown in Figure 3-1.

17

CHAPTER 3: Installation

Table 3-1. DB9 pin signal descriptions.

Pin RS-232 RS-422/485 RS-485 Signal

(Full Duplex) 4-Wire 2-Wire Direction

(Full Duplex) (Half-Duplex)

1 DCD — — Out

2 RX RX- *Data B (-) In

3 TX TX- — Out

4 DTR — — In

5 GND GND GND —

6 DSR — — Out

7 RTS RX+ *Data A (+) In

8 CTS TX+ — Out

9RI——In

*Bidirectional RS-485 bus line.

3.6 Serial Connection

This server features rear-panel DIP switches that set the unit to the correct cable
configuration type to support connection with an RS-232/422/485 device.

The first time you use the server, set its serial port’s control function (see Table 3-2).

Table 3-2. Setting the DIP switch.

DIP-Switch 1 Position Function

On RS-232 console

Off Data communication

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

NOTES

• To avoid incorrect connection, review your DTE or DCE’s DIP-switch
settings (see Sections 3.7 and 3.8) and the converter’s connector pin
configurations (see Section 3.5) before installation.

• For RS-422/485 devices that aren’t designed to provide DB9
connection, ignore the DTE/DCE mode installation procedure (Sections

3.7 and 3.8) and check the pin configuration to connect the devices.

• For first-time installation, use console mode to set up the connection
configuration with RS-232 cable.

3.7 Connection to Data Terminal Equipment (DTE)

1. Make sure DIP-switch 1 is in the “OFF” position. (This disables console
mode.)

2. Set DIP-switches 2, 3, and 4 according to the wire type as indicated in Table
3-3.

Table 3-3. DIP switches 2–4 settings.

Function DIP-Switch 2 DIP-Switch 3 DIP-Switch 4

RS-232 On Off Off

4-wire (RS-232/485) Off On Off

2-wire (RS-485) Off Off On

NOTE

There isn’t a switch for DTE/DCE. Configure the attached device as a
DTE or DCE by using either a null-modem cable or a straight-through
cable. This DTE/DCE configuration only applies to RS-232 ports.

3. Prepare TIA/EIA-574 compliant crossover shielded cables with DB9
connectors.

4. Connect the DB9 male connector at the end of the cable to the server’s DB9
female connector.

5. Connect the DB9 male or female connector at the other end of the cable to
the DTE’s DB9 male or female connector.

19

CHAPTER 3: Installation

6. DIP-switch 7 only supports RS-422/485 mode. Set it for your network
configuration. The default setting is Off.

3.8 Connection to Data Communication Equipment (DCE)

1. Make sure that DIP-switch 1 is in the Off position. (This disables console
mode.)

2. Set DIP-switches 2, 3, and 4 according to the wire type as indicated in Table
3-3.

3. Prepare TIA/EIA-574/422/485-compliant straight-through shielded cables
with DB9 connectors.

4. Connect the DB9 male connector at the end of the cable to the server’s DB9
female connector.

5. Connect the DB9 male or female connector at the other end of the cable to
the DCE’s DB9 male or female connector.

3.9 Ethernet Connection

The server has a 100-Mbps Fast Ethernet fiber port. To link the server to a Fast
Ethernet hub, switch, or computer, simply insert one end of a multimode or single­mode fiber into the media converter’s ST

®

or SC port and the other end into a

100-Mbps hub, switch, or computer’s Fast Ethernet card.

NOTE

The RJ-45 port accepts both straight-through and crossover Ethernet
cables without having to reconfigure the port.

20

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

4. Operation

Once the server is installed, its four front-panel LED indicators (Lnk/Act, Act, Sys,
and 100) and its rear-panel Pwr LED give you status at a glance. The first time you
use the server, you must configure it by following the instructions in Chapter 5.

When the Pwr LED is on, the server is operating in normal power mode. When this
LED is off, the power is off or has failed.

The Lnk/Act LED lights when the switch’s respective port is connected to the
network. This LED blinks when the port is transmitting or receiving data on the
Ethernet network. The Link/Act LED is off when no link is connected.

The Act LED lights when the server is receiving data packets. When it’s off, the
server is transmitting or receiving RS-232/422/485 data packets.

The Sys LED blinks when the CPU is working. When this LED is continuously on
or off, the CPU is not working.

The 100 LED is on when the switch’s respective twisted-pair port is connected to a
Fast Ethernet network. This LED is off when the switch’s respective port is
connected to a 10-Mbps Ethernet port.

21

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

5. Configuration

There are three separate methods for configuring the server. Section 5.1 describes
the Command Line Interface (CLI) or menu-driven interface via the console port
used to set the device for connection to data terminal equipment in console mode.
Section 5.2 explains the Internet browser interface. Section 5.3 describes the CLI
or menu-driven interface via Telnet configuration.

Before you begin, connect the server to your Fast Ethernet device (hub, switch, or
computer) via RS-232 cable. DIP-switch 1 should be set to the On position.

5.1 Configuring via the Console Port

Access the server via a terminal emulator attached to its RS-232 console port. After
completing the steps outlined to connect the devices (see Section 3.7), follow the
instructions on the next page to log into the management facility using
HyperTerminal. The server is preset with a factory IP address (192.168.0.254) that
you must reconfigure to an individual IP address. Make sure that you do this;
otherwise, the server might conflict with other devices that have the same defaults.

NOTE

Before following the instructions listed next for HyperTerminal
configuration, make sure that the server and the Fast Ethernet device
are connected by a serial cable.

5.1.1 H

YPERTERMINALCONFIGURATION

1. The default login name is admin, and there’s no preset password. At the
login prompt, type admin, then type the following command line to change
the device IP address in CLI mode (where xxx represents values between 0
and 254. Users should type in their own IP address in this form.)

set eth0 ip xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx

2. After you type in the new IP address, the system will confirm whether the
operation is successful.

NOTE

Copy the new address down on a piece of paper. You will need the
address when you are going to use Telnet or set up data
transfer/communication connection.

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

WARNING

IP addresses are unique! If an address isn’t available, please contact
your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to apply for one.

3. After you log into the system, you will see a welcome message as shown in
Figure 5-1.

Figure 5-1. Welcome screen.

4. Press the Enter key, and the screen shown in Figure 5-2 appears.

Figure 5-2. CLI or menu-driven interface login screen.

Firmware version 1.01.00 (built at Jan 21 2003 19:11:21)

Press <ENTER> key to start

Username: admin
Password: _

Firmware version 1.01.00 (built at Jan 21 2003 19:11:21)
Press <ENTER> key to start

23

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

5. Type admin (the default username) at the username prompt, but leave the
password field blank since there’s no default value. Press the Enter key to
proceed. The Select User Interface screen (Figure 5-3) appears.

Figure 5-3. Select User Interface screen.

6. To select the command-line interface, type 1. To choose the menu-driven
interface, type 2. Or, use the Tab key to select 1 or 2, then press the Enter
key.

7. If you pressed 1, the following prompt will appear.

Converter>

NOTE

At this prompt, you can type in command line interface commands.
However, we do not recommend using the command-line interface
option since the required commands are not documented in this
manual. Instead, use the menu-driven interface option.

If you pressed 2 (the menu-driven interface), the screen shown in Figure 5-4
appears.

5.1.2 M

AINMENUCONFIGURATIONOPTIONS

Figure 5-4 shows the Main Menu screen for the menu-driven configuration option.
From this screen, the configuration options available enable you to quickly access
and adjust the server settings as required. For descriptions, see Sections 5.1.3–5.1.9.

<1> CLI User Interface

<2> Menu-Driven Interface

_

24

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Figure 5-4. Main Menu.

5.1.3 S

YSTEMINFORMATIONMENU

From this menu (Figure 5-5), you can view some system-related information and
the default IP address. To get to this screen, click on System Information Menu in
Figure 5-4.

Figure 5-5. System Information menu.

System Information
Description :
Serial Number : 000000001001
Model Name : RS-232/422/485-100TX Converter
Company Name :
Board Name : Ver. 0.0.1
MAC-1 Address : 00:08:04:31:00:01
Manufacture time : 00:00:00 00/00/0000

DHCP Client : Disabled
IP Address : 192.158.0.254
Subnet Mask : 255.255.255.0
Gateway : 192.168.0.1

<SAVE> <ESC>

<Tab> to move| <Enter> to select

Main Menu

System Information Menu

DHCP Configuration Menu

RS-232 Configuration Menu

Monitor Menu

Firmware Upgrade Menu

Load Factory Default Settings

System Reset

Exit

<Tab> to move| <Enter> to select

25

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

Type in an appropriate IP address, subnet mask, and gateway for your network.
Once you enter a new IP address, Telnet™ and data communication will be based
on this address.

5.1.4 DHCP C

ONFIGURATION

M

ENU

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) allows the server to obtain an IP
address from a DHCP server automatically. See Figure 5-6. To get to this screen,
click on DHCP Configuration Menu in Figure 5-4.

NOTE

A DHCP server must exist and be available in your local network before
enabling the DHCP client.

Figure 5-6. DHCP Configuration menu.

The DHCP Client field in Figure 5-6 toggles between Disabled and Enabled. To
use DHCP configuration, select Enabled.

5.1.5 RS-232 C

ONFIGURATIONMENU

The RS-232 Transfer menu (see Figure 5-7) is applicable to all RS-232, RS-422,
RS-485 modes. Before transferring data through a server, you must set up a
connection between the local and remote server.

The connection setup process involves the server waiting for a connection service
request sent by the client. During this process, the default setting is AUTO mode
(the system will automatically determine which end is the server and which end is
the client).

DHCP Configuration Menu

DHCP Client : Disabled

<SAVE> <ESC>

<Tab> to move| <Enter> to select

26

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

To get to the RS-232 Transfer menu and Serial Port Configuration menu (Figure
5-7), click on RS-232 Configuration Menu in Figure 5-4.

NOTE

If necessary, you can manually designate the server and client.

Figure 5-7. RS-232 Transfer and Serial Port Configuration menus.

CAUTION

Changes to the settings are saved to a system flash memory and do not
take effect until you reset or reboot the system. This validates the new
settings.

In this screen, type in the IP address of the remote server to which the connection
is being made. (The TCP Port Number is a number from 1024 to 65535.)

NOTE

Local and remote servers must have the same port number in order to
connect.

The Connection Idle Timeout field becomes active when there is no traffic passing
through the server. Type in an idle time value between 30 and 3600 seconds. When
this time limit has been reached, the connection will be terminated automatically.

RS-232 Transfer Configuration
Server/Client Type : AUTO
Remote IP : 192.168.0.155
TCP Port Number: 1234
Connection Idle Timeout (sec) :600

Serial Port Configuration
Operation Mode : Console Mode
Baud Rate : 115200
Parity : None
Word Length : 0
Stop Bits : 1
Flow Control : NONE

<SAVE> <ESC>

The saved configuration is not effective until System Reset at Power off/on.

<Tab> to move | <Enter> to select

27

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

Under the Serial Port Configuration heading, the Operation Mode field is a read­only value indicating one of the following modes: Console, RS-232, RS-422, or
RS-485. The mode is based on the DIP switch positions 1–4’s settings on the
server’s rear panel.

Other fields that can be modified from this screen are: communication data baud
rate, parity, word length, stop bits, and flow control. Defaults for these are:

• Baud rate: 38400

• Parity: None

• Word length: 8

• Stop bits: 1

• Flow control: None

5.1.6 M

ONITORMENU

This screen (Figure 5-8) provides at-a-glance system status information. To get to
this screen, click on Monitor Menu in Figure 5-4.

Figure 5-8. Monitor menu.

Connection Status RS-232 Transfer Configuration

Connect status : Not connected Server/Client Type: AUTO
Dest. IP Address: 0.0.0.0 Remote IP: 192.168.0.155
Dest/Srce port number: 0/0 TCP Port Number: 1234
Byte counts from UART: 235 Connection Idle Time (sec): 600
Byte counts to network: 0
Byte counts from network: 0 Serial Port Configuration
Byte counts to UART: 12078 Operation Mode : Console Mode

Baud Rate : 115200
Parity : None
Word Length : 0
Stop Bits : 1
Flow Control : NONE

<Clear> <ESC>

<Tab> to move| <Enter> to select

28

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

5.1.7 TFTP F

IRMWAREUPGRADEMENU

From the menu shown in Figure 5-9, you can upgrade the existing firmware to
newer firmware that’s available from a TFTP server. To get to this screen, click on

Firmware Upgrade Menu in Figure 5-4.

Figure 5-9. TFTP Firmware Upgrade menu.

5.1.8 L

OADFACTORYDEFAULTSETTINGS

The Load Factory Default Settings command allows you to restore factory-default
settings to the server. From the Main Menu (Figure 5-4), select Load Factory

Default Settings field and press the Enter key.

5.1.9 S

YSTEMRESTART

The System Restart option allows you to perform a warm restart and validate a
newly saved configuration to the server. In the Main Menu (Figure 5-4), select
System Restart and press the Enter key to reset the server.

CAUTION

After each configuration session, set DIP-switch 1 to the Off position.
Otherwise, the server will not transmit data.

TFTP FIRMWARE

UPGRADE

File Name : IPP733.BIN

IP address : 198.168.0.206

<Update> <ESC>

<Tab> to move| <Enter> to select

29

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

5.2 Configuring via the Internet Browser Interface

You can access the server via a remote computer using an Internet browser. The
server is preset with a factory IP address (192.168.0.254) that must be configured to
your individual IP address. This section gives a step-by-step guide to configuring
and monitoring the server using the Web user interface. A series of screen shots
and instructions illustrate the main menu structure and how it works.

Open a Web browser and type in the server’s IP address, then click OK. The Web
Manager screen shown in Figure 5-10 will appear.

Figure 5-10. Web Manager screen.

In the user name field, type in admin. This is the default user password. Since
there is no preset password for this module, click on the OK button to proceed.
(Or, click on Cancel to halt the login.) The screen shown in Figure 5-11 appears.

5.2.1 H

OMEPAGE

The Home page (Figure 5-11) displays the server’s information and its link status.
Beneath it is the display for system information. You can edit the IP address, subnet
mask, and gateway address on this page. Click on the fields to get a text prompt
and edit the information.

30

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Figure 5-11. Home page.

Default address: IP Address: 192.168.2.254

Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Gateway: 192.168.0.1

Click on the Reset button to select the previously configured settings, or click on
the Apply button to save the new configured settings.

NOTE

The factory defaults listed above are used as an example only. For a
new address, choose numbers between 0 and 255 for each sub-address
field. Make a note of them and keep the details in a safe place.

2

254

31

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

5.2.2 M

AIN

M

ENU

On the left side of the Home page (Figure 5-11), the Main Menu appears. The
Main Menu (Figure 5-12) gives you all the necessary tools and information for
managing the server. Click on the minus signs (located to the left of the folder
symbol) to open the sub-menus.

Figure 5-12. Main Menu options.

System Details

Two options are available: System Info and Master Info.

System Info

When you click on System Info in the Main Menu (Figure 5-12), the System Info
screen appears (not shown in this manual). This screen displays the server’s model
number, IP address, subnet mask, and gateway address.

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Master Info

If you click on Master Information in the Main menu, Figure 5-13 appears. The
master information page displays the server’s hardware and firmware versions.

Figure 5-13. Master information page.

Configuration

If you click on Configuration in the Main Menu (Figure 5-12), Figure 5-14 appears.

Figure 5-14. Configuration screen.

33

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

CAUTION

Changes to the settings are saved to a system flash memory and do not
take effect until a system reset or reboot occurs. This validates the new
settings.

In the Configuration screen (Figure 5-14), type in the remote server’s IP address to
which you want to connect. Then type in its TCP port number. (The TCP port
number is a number from 1024 to 65535.)

NOTE

Local and remote servers must be configured with the same port
number to establish a connection.

The Connection Idle Time field becomes active when there’s no traffic passing
through the server. Set the idle time value between 30 and 3600 seconds. When
this time limit has been reached, the connection will be terminated automatically.

Serial Port Config

Under the Serial Port Configuration heading, the Operation Mode field is a read­only value indicating one of the following modes: Console, RS-232, RS-422, or
RS-485. The mode is based on the server’s rear-panel DIP-switch settings.

Other fields that can be modified from this screen include communication data
baud rate, parity, word length, stop bits, and flow control. Defaults for these are:

• Baud rate: 38400

• Parity: None

• Word length: 8

• Stop bits: 1

• Flow control: None

Click on the Reset button to revert to the previously saved settings, or click on the
Apply button to save the newly created settings.

Serial Connect Status

If you click on Serial Connect Status in the Main Menu (Figure 5-12), Figure 5-15
appears. This screen provides at-a-glance system operation status information.

34

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

Figure 5-15. Connection status screen.

Mgmt Config

Four options are available: User Config, Firmware Download, Configuration File,
and SNMP Config.

User Config

If you click on User Config in Figure 5-12, Figure 5-16 appears.

Figure 5-16. User configuration screen.

35

Use this menu to change the login user name and password. Click on the fields to
get a text prompt, and type in a new user name and password. Then click on Apply
to activate them.

Firmware Download

When you click on this option in Figure 5-12, the firmware download screen
appears (not shown in this manual). Follow the instructions on the screen to
download firmware.

Configuration File

When you click on this option in Figure 5-12, the System Backup screen appears
(see Figure 5-21). Follow the instructions on the screen.

SNMP Config

If you click on SNMP Config in the Main Menu (Figure 5-12), Figure 5-17 appears.

Figure 5-17. SNMP Configuration screen.

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

Browse

36

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

SNMP support software is upgradeable. To upgrade via HTTP, first download the
software to a designated computer and click on the Browse button to select the
program. Then click on Start Upgrade by HTTP. If you have an IP address and file
name for new software, enter them in the fields and click on Start Upgrade by
TFTP.

SNMP

Communities

If you click on SNMP Communities in Figure 5-12, Figure 5-18 appears.

Figure 5-18. SNMP Communities screen.

There are two communities listed on this page. The Get Community Name
(public) is for reference only. The Set Community Name (private) is a group that
can be renamed. For example, it might be a group of individuals that uses or has
access to this management program.

NOTE

Get and Set Communities are user account names. There are no preset
user passwords for them. If the community names are changed, the new
names must also be activated with SNMP Tool.

37

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

IP Trap Manager

If you click on IP Trap Manager in Figure 5-12, Figure 5-19 appears.

Figure 5-19. IP Trap Manager screen.

All data on this page is set to factory default. To change them, click on each field to
get a text prompt and type in the new information. Type in the computers’ IP
address for when abnormalities on a connection occur and to send an alarm. Type
in their community names and disable or enable the alarm function accordingly.
Click on Reset to restore previously saved configurations, or click on Save to retain
newly entered information.

38

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

System Restart Menu

If you click on System Restart Menu, Restart Option in Figure 5-12, Figure 5-20
appears.

Figure 5-20. System Restart menu.

Click on the Restore button to retrieve factory defaults.

Click on the Reset button to reboot the system.

Restore Button

Do not interrupt or power off the server while programming. When you select the
Restore button, the prompt below appears.

Please wait xx seconds

where xx is the countdown timer value.

System Backup

If you click on Configuration File in Figure 5-12, Figure 5-21 appears.

39

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

Figure 5-21. System Backup screen.

Use this menu to back up configurations. To begin, click on the Backup Setting
button. Then follow the prompts to save new configurations to a designated
computer.

This menu lets you retrieve saved files. Either type in the file name or use the
Browse button to select the file. Then click on Restore Setting.

5.3 Configuring via CLI (Telnet)

Access the server via a remote computer using Telnet. After completing the steps
outlined to connect the devices (see Section 3.7), proceed with the directions
below to log into the management facility using a remote computer. The server is
preset with a factory IP address. It’s important to do this so that the server doesn’t
conflict with other devices with the same defaults.

NOTE

Before following the instructions listed below for remote computer
login, make sure that a serial cable connection between the server and
the remote workstation exists.

Browse

40

PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

5.3.1 R

EMOTE

C

OMPUTERLOGIN

1. The default login name is admin, and there’s no preset password. After
logging in, type the following command line to change the device IP address
in CLI mode. xxx represents values between 0 and 254. Enter your IP address
in this format.

telnet xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx

2. After entering the new IP address, the system will confirm whether the
operation is successful.

NOTE

Copy the new address on a piece of paper. You will need the address
when you are going to use Telnet or set up data transfer/communication
connections.

CAUTION

IP addresses are unique! If an address isn’t available, contact the
appropriate authorities to apply for one.

3. After you log into the system, you will see a welcome message on the screen
(Figure 5-22).

Figure 5-22. Welcome screen.

Converter>
Converter>?

[Command List]

? . . . . . . . Help commands

backup. . . . . backup configuration file

exit. . . . . . Logout

help. . . . . . Help commands

logout. . . . . Logout

ping. . . . . . Ping a specified host with IP address

reset . . . . . Reset system or reset factory default setting

set . . . . . . set commands

show. . . . . . show commands

upgrade . . . . upgrade runtime firmware or configuration file

Converter> net
[Command List]

? . . . . . . . Help commands

help. . . . . . Help commands

admin . . . . . Set administrator name and password

cfg . . . . . . Set system information

eth0. . . . . . Set network eth0 configuration

idle. . . . . . Set idle time for CSI session

xfer. . . . . . Set RS-232 transfer configuration

Converter>
Converter>?

41

4. Press Enter, and on the following screen type the default username admin.
Leave the password field blank since there is no default value. Press Enter to
proceed.

5. Select the CLI user interface option by pressing the associated number key or
using the Tab key and pressing Enter. A command prompt appears.

NOTE

Type “?” or “help” to view the entire commands and explanations list.

5.3.2 C

OMMANDDEFINITIONS

backup: Use this command to save configuration settings to file.

exit: Type exit or logout and press Enter to quit the program.

help: Access the help commands list.

ping: Type ping, then a space, then the IP address of the device to send a test

signal. If a response is received, then the device is connected. To view a full list of
ping options, type ping and press Enter.

reset: Type reset config and press Enter to load factory-default settings, or type
reset system and press Enter to restart the system.

set: To configure the management console, type the commands below, followed by
the Enter key.

NOTE

Separate each command line port with a space.

set admin: Follow the prompts to change the username and password.

set cfg: Use this command to set new addresses. Use set eth0 ip (new IP

address), network mask (new network mask), or gateway (new gateway).

set idle: Set the automatic logout time (in seconds) when the program or
communication is idle.

set xfer: This command sets RS-232 configuration and data communication
parameters. The command syntax is as follows.

set xfer [arg_1 data_1][arg_2 data_2]
[arg_n data_n]

CHAPTER 5: Configuration

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PURE NETWORKING RS-232/422/485 TO TWISTED-PAIR DEVICE SERVER

[Argument List]
idle…Set the serial port’s idle time.
type…Set the operation type (AUTO, SERVER, or CLIENT).
remote…Set the remote IP address.
port…Set the TCP port number.
baud…Set the serial port’s baud rate.
parity…Set the serial port’s parity.
length…Set the serial port’s word length.
stopbits…Set the serial port’s stop bits.
flow…Set the serial port’s flow control type.
statistics…Clear statistics.

show: Type show to view a complete view commands list.

upgrade: Reloads the configuration file or upgrades runtime firmware.

upgrade config: Use this command to reload previously saved configurations. For

this operation to be successful, type in the IP address and filename accurately.

upgrade firmware: Use this command to load new software versions for this
console. For example:

upgrade firmware xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx
Soft2.bin

CAUTION

After each configuration session, set DIP-switch 1 to the Off position.
Otherwise, the server will not transmit data.

43

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 Calling Black Box

If you determine that your Pure Networking RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-Pair
Device Server is malfunctioning, do not attempt to alter or repair the unit. It
contains no user-serviceable parts. Contact Black Box at 724-746-5500.

Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem. We will be able to
provide more efficient and accurate assistance if you have a complete description,
including:

• the nature and duration of the problem.

• when the problem occurs.

• the components involved in the problem.

• any particular application that, when used, appears to create the problem or
make it worse.

6.2 Shipping and Packaging

If you need to transport or ship your Pure Networking RS-232/422/485 to Twisted­Pair Device Server:

• Package it carefully. We recommend that you use the original container.

• If you are shipping the Pure Networking RS-232/422/485 to Twisted-Pair
Device Server for repair, make sure you include everything that came in the
original package. Before you ship, contact Black Box to get a Return
Authorization (RA) number.

CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting