Comtrol DeviceMaster PRO, DeviceMaster RTS, DeviceMaster Serial Hub Installation And Configuration Manual

Installation and Configuration Guide

Trademark Notices

Document Number: 2000506 Rev. B

Replaces: 2000334, 2000337, and 2000340

Comtrol, NS-Link, and DeviceMaster are trademarks of Comtrol Corporation.

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

HyperTerminal is a registered trademark of Hilgraeve, Inc.

Portions of SocketServer are copyrighted by GoAhead Software, Inc. Copyright © 2001. GoAhead Software, Inc. All
Rights Reserved.

Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Second Edition, August 14, 2009
Copyright © 2001 - 2009. Comtrol Corporation.
All Rights Reserved.

Comtrol Corporation makes no representations or warranties with regard to the contents of this document or to the
suitability of the Comtrol product for any particular purpose. Specifications subject to change without notice. Some
software or features may not be available at the time of publication. Contact your reseller for current product
information.

Table of Contents

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 7

Installation and Configuration Overview .............................................................................................................................. 7

NS-Link COM Port Driver Installation....................................................................................................................................................7

Step 1: Hardware Installation............................................................................................................................................................. 7

Step 2: Install PortVision Plus............................................................................................................................................................ 7

Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address............................................................................................................................7

Step 4: Install NS-Link Device Driver for Windows ..................................................................................................................7

Step 5: Configure NS-Link Port Properties Page........................................................................................................................8

Step 6: Configure Socket Ports...........................................................................................................................................................8

Step 7: Serial Device Connection...................................................................................................................................................... 8

Secure COM Port Redirector Installation Overview ........................................................................................................................ 8

Step 1: Hardware Installation............................................................................................................................................................. 8

Step 2: Install PortVision Plus............................................................................................................................................................ 8

Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address............................................................................................................................8

Step 4: Update SocketServer...............................................................................................................................................................8

Step 5: Configure SocketServer......................................................................................................................................................... 8

Step 6: Install the Port Redirector.................................................................................................................................................... 8

Step 7: Add and Configure the COM Port ......................................................................................................................................8

Step 8: Serial Device Connection...................................................................................................................................................... 8

NS-Link tty Port Installation Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 9

Step 1: Hardware Installation............................................................................................................................................................. 9

Step 2: Install PortVision Plus............................................................................................................................................................ 9

Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address............................................................................................................................9

Step 4: Install the NS-Link Device Driver for Linux.................................................................................................................. 9

Step 5: Configure Socket Ports...........................................................................................................................................................9

Step 6: Serial Device Connection...................................................................................................................................................... 9

TCP/IP Socket Port Installation Overview...........................................................................................................................................9

Step 1: Hardware Installation............................................................................................................................................................. 9

Step 2: Install PortVision Plus............................................................................................................................................................ 9

Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address............................................................................................................................9

Step 4: Update SocketServer............................................................................................................................................................ 10

Step 5: Configure the Socket Ports................................................................................................................................................ 10

Step 6: Serial Device Connection................................................................................................................................................... 10

Locating Software and Documentation................................................................................................................................10

Developer’s Kit ................................................................................................................

.............................................................11

Hardware Installation ...................................................................................................................................13

Installation Overview.................................................................................................................................................................13

1-Port - Enclosed Models...........................................................................................................................................................14

1-Port - Embedded Model .........................................................................................................................................................16

Building the Serial Ribbon Cable........................................................................................................................................................... 16

Mounting the Embedded .......................................................................................................................................................................... 17

Attaching the Network and Serial Cables .......................................................................................................................................... 18

Connecting the Power and Verifying Installation .......................................................................................................................... 18

2-Port (Serial Terminal) 1E/2E Models ...............................................................................................................................20

2-Port (DB9) 1E/2E Models......................................................................................................................................................22

4-Port and 8-Port Models..........................................................................................................................................................24

16-Port (DeviceMaster RTS - External Power Supply)....................................................................................................26

16-Port (DeviceMaster PRO) ...................................................................................................................................................28

16/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power Supply).............................................................................................30

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Table of Contents - iii

Table of Contents

Initial Configuration.......................................................................................................................................33

PortVision Plus Requirements................................................................................................................................................33

Installing PortVision Plus .........................................................................................................................................................33

Configuring the Network Settings ..........................................................................................................................................34

Checking the SocketServer Version.......................................................................................................................................36

Uploading SocketServer ............................................................................................................................................................37

Device Driver Installation ............................................................................................................................39

Linux Installation.........................................................................................................................................................................39

Windows Installation .................................................................................................................................................................39

Windows Vista: NS-Link Installation................................................................................................................................................... 40

Windows XP and Windows Server 2003: NS-Link Installation ............................................................................................... 41

Windows 2000: NS-Link Installation .................................................................................................................................................. 42

Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows ....................................................................................................................43

Configuring COM Port Properties for Windows ................................................................................................................44

Secure COM Port Set Up.................................................................................................................................45

Secure COM Port Redirector Overview ................................................................................................................................45

Configuring Serial Ports and Enabling Security ................................................................................................................45

Installing the Secure COM Port Redirector .........................................................................................................................47

Configuring Secure Redirector COM Ports ..........................................................................................................................48

Adding a Secure Port .................................................................................................................................................................................. 48

Configuring the Secure COM Port ......................................................................................................................................................... 48

Socket Port Configuration ............................................................................................................................49

SocketServer Overview..............................................................................................................................................................49

SocketServer Architecture........................................................................................................................................................50

Accessing Socket Configuration..............................................................................................................................................51

Web Browser ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 51

PortVision Plus.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 51

Web Manager Button ......................................................................................................................................................................... 51

SocketServer Versions ...............................................................................................................................................................52

Configure Device Page....................................................................................................................................................................... 51

Connecting Serial Devices ............................................................................................................................53

Connecting Devices .....................................................................................................................................................................53

DeviceMaster 1/4/8/16/32-Port Models............................................................................................................................53

DeviceMaster 2-Port with Serial Terminals .......................................................................................................................56

Serial Terminal (4) Signals (1E) ............................................................................................................................................................ 56

Serial Terminal (8) Signals (2E) ............................................................................................................................................................ 57

DeviceMaster 2-Port (1E/2E) DB9 Connectors..................................................................................................................58

DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs.................................................................................................................................59

DB9 Loopback Plugs ................................................................................................................................................................................... 59

DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) ....................................................................................................................................................... 60

DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422) ....................................................................................................................................................... 60

DB9 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485)................................................................................................................................... 60

RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................61

RJ45 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) ...................................................................................................................................................... 61

RJ45 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422) ...................................................................................................................................................... 62

Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485) ............................................................................................................................................ 62

RJ45 Loopback Plugs .................................................................................................................................................................................. 62

RS-485 Test Cable........................................................................................................................................................................................ 62

iv - Table of Contents DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Table of Contents

DeviceMaster 1E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks.........................................................................................63

Serial Terminal (4) Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)......................................................................................................................... 63

Serial Terminal (4) Null-Modem Cables (RS-422)......................................................................................................................... 63

Serial Terminal (4) Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485) .................................................................................................... 64

1E Loopback Signals ................................................................................................................................................................................... 64

DeviceMaster 2E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks.........................................................................................65

Serial Terminal (8) Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)......................................................................................................................... 65

Serial Terminal (8) Null-Modem Cables (RS-422)......................................................................................................................... 65

Serial Terminal (8) Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485) .................................................................................................... 66

2E Loopback Signals ................................................................................................................................................................................... 66

Managing the DeviceMaster.........................................................................................................................67

Rebooting the DeviceMaster....................................................................................................................................................67

Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMasters........................................................................................................68

Configuring Multiple DeviceMasters Network Addresses .............................................................................................68

Using Configuration Files..........................................................................................................................................................69

Managing Bootloader .................................................................................................................................................................70

Checking the Bootloader Version.......................................................................................................................................................... 70

Uploading Bootloader ................................................................................................................................................................................ 70

Adding a DeviceMaster to an Existing Installation...........................................................................................................72

Replacing a DeviceMaster.........................................................................................................................................................72

Device Programmed with IP Address ................................................................................................................................................. 72

Device Programmed with MAC Address............................................................................................................................................ 72

Restoring Factory Defaults (2-Port, Only)...........................................................................................................................73

Restoring Serial Port Settings..................................................................................................................................................73

NS-Link COM Port ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 73

Socket Port...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 73

RedBoot Procedures.......................................................................................................................................75

Overview.........................................................................................................................................................................................75

Establishing a Serial Connection ........................................................................................................................................................... 75

Establishing a Telnet Connection.......................................................................................................................................................... 76

Determining the Network Settings ........................................................................................................................................77

Configuring the Network Settings..........................................................................................................................................77

Determining the Bootloader Version....................................................................................................................................78

Resetting the DeviceMaster......................................................................................................................................................78

Uploading Firmware...................................................................................................................................................................79

Serial Method................................................................................................................................................................................................. 79

Telnet Method ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 80

Configuring Passwords ..............................................................................................................................................................82

Redboot Command Overview..................................................................................................................................................83

Hardware Specifications...............................................................................................................................85

Locating DeviceMaster Specifications ..................................................................................................................................85

Serial Communications..............................................................................................................................................................85

External Power Supply Specifications ..................................................................................................................................87

1-Port 5VDC Power Supply......................................................................................................................................................................87

1-Port 5-30VDC Power Supply............................................................................................................................................................... 87

2-Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply ........................................................................................................................................... 88

2-Port (DB9) Power Supply.....................................................................................................................................................................88

4-Port Power Supply .................................................................................................................................................................................. 88

8-Port Power Supply .................................................................................................................................................................................. 88

16-Port Power Supplies ............................................................................................................................................................................ 89

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Table of Contents - v

Table of Contents

DeviceMaster Product Pictures ..............................................................................................................................................90

1-Port (DB9) 5VDC ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 90

1-Port (DB9) 5-30VDC ............................................................................................................................................................................... 91

1-Port Embedded......................................................................................................................................................................................... 92

2-Port (Single Ethernet Port) with Serial Terminals.................................................................................................................... 92

2-Port (Dual Ethernet Ports) with Serial Terminals..................................................................................................................... 92

2-Port (Single Ethernet Port) DB9........................................................................................................................................................ 93

2-Port (Dual Ethernet Ports) DB9 ........................................................................................................................................................ 93

4-Port (DB9)................................................................................................................................................................................................... 94

8-Port (DB9)................................................................................................................................................................................................... 94

16-Port (RJ45) External Power Supply .............................................................................................................................................. 94

16-Port (RJ45) Internal Power Supply ............................................................................................................................................... 94

DeviceMaster PRO 16-Port (RJ45) ....................................................................................................................................................... 94

DeviceMaster Serial Hub 16-Port (DB9)............................................................................................................................................ 94

DeviceMaster RTS 32-Port (RJ45) ........................................................................................................................................................ 95

Notices .............................................................................................................................................................................................96

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) (FCC 15.105) ....................................................................................................................... 96

Labeling Requirements (FCC 15.19).................................................................................................................................................... 96

Modifications (FCC 15.21)........................................................................................................................................................................ 96

Serial Cables (FCC 15.27) ......................................................................................................................................................................... 96

Underwriters Laboratory ......................................................................................................................................................................... 96

Important Safety Information ................................................................................................................................................................ 96

Troubleshooting and Technical Support.................................................................................................97

Troubleshooting Checklist ......................................................................................................................................................97

General Troubleshooting..........................................................................................................................................................99

Daisy-Chaining DeviceMaster 2E/4/8/16-Port Units................................................................................................... 101

Technical Support..................................................................................................................................................................... 102

Index................................................................................................................................................................. 103

vi - Table of Contents DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Introduction

This section provides an installation and configuration overview for the DeviceMaster
platform:

•DeviceMaster PRO

•DeviceMaster RTS

• DeviceMaster Serial Hub

In addition, it provides links to download the latest files for the DeviceMaster installation.
Optionally, you can use the Software and Documentation CD to install the DeviceMaster.

Installation and Configuration Overview

There are four basic installations depending on your requirements. You can use the
appropriate overview to install and configure the DeviceMaster for your environment.

• NS-Link COM port device driver

• Secure COM port redirector

• NS-Link tty port device driver

•TCP/IP socket port

NS-Link COM Port
Driver Installation

Step 1: Hardware
Installation

Step 2: Install
PortVision Plus

Step 3: Program the
DeviceMaster IP
Address

Step 4: Install NS-Link
Device Driver for
Windows

Use the following steps, which are discussed in detail in the subsequent sections, to install
and configure the DeviceMaster to run the NS-Link device driver for Windows operating
systems.

• Step 1: Hardware Installation

• Step 2: Install PortVision Plus

• Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address

• Step 4: Install NS-Link Device Driver for Windows

• Step 5: Configure NS-Link Port Properties Page on Page 8

• Step 6: Configure Socket Ports on Page 8

• Step 7: Serial Device Connection on Page 8

Power up the DeviceMaster. Technical Support suggests installing one DeviceMaster at a
time to avoid configuration problems. Refer to Hardware Installation
detailed installation procedures for your DeviceMaster model.

Comtrol recommends connecting the DeviceMaster to a PC or laptop running Windows®
2000/XP/2003/Vista so that you can install PortVision Plus for easy IP address
configuration. See PortVision Plus Requirements

Installing PortVision Plus

See Configuring the Network Settings on Page 34 for detailed configuration procedures.

See Windows Installation on Page 39 for an installation overview of the NS-Link driver for
each Windows operating system.

on Page 33 to install PortVision Plus.

on Page 7

on Page 13 for

on Page 33 and use then refer to

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Introduction - 7

Step 5: Configure NS-Link Port Properties Page

Step 5: Configure NS­Link Port Properties
Page

Step 6: Configure
Socket Ports

Step 7: Serial Device
Connection

Secure COM Port
Redirector Installation
Overview

Step 1: Hardware
Installation

Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows on Page 43 provides and overview of COM

port configuration and Configuring COM Port Properties for Windows

on Page 44

provides DeviceMaster device configuration information.

Optionally, you may need to configure one or more ports for socket mode. See Socket Port

Configuration on Page 49 for information about configuring socket ports using the Server

Configuration web page.

Connect the serial devices to the DeviceMaster. Refer to Connecting Serial Devices on Page

53 for cabling and connector information.

Use the following steps, which are discussed in detail in the subsequent sections, to install
and configure the secure COM port redirector for the DeviceMaster.

• Step 1: Hardware Installation

• Step 2: Install PortVision Plus

• Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address

• Step 4: Update SocketServer

• Step 5: Configure SocketServer

• Step 6: Install the Port Redirector

• Step 7: Add and Configure the COM Port

• Step 8: Serial Device Connection

Power up the DeviceMaster. Technical Support suggests installing one DeviceMaster at a
time to avoid configuration problems. Refer to Hardware Installation on Page 13 for
detailed installation procedures for your DeviceMaster model.

Step 2: Install
PortVision Plus

Step 3: Program the
DeviceMaster IP
Address

Step 4: Update
SocketServer

Step 5: Configure
SocketServer

Step 6: Install the Port
Redirector

Step 7: Add and
Configure the COM Port

Step 8: Serial Device
Connection

Comtrol recommends connecting the DeviceMaster to a PC or laptop running Windows®
2000/XP/2003/Vista so that you can install PortVision Plus for easy IP address
configuration. See PortVision Plus Requirements

on Page 33 and use then refer to

Installing PortVision Plus on Page 33 to install PortVision Plus.

See Configuring the Network Settings on Page 34 for procedures on IP address
configuration procedures.

If necessary, update SocketServer. You can use Checking the SocketServer Version on Page

36 and then refer to Locating Software and Documentation on Page 10 to locate the latest

version on the web site. See Uploading SocketServer

on Page 37 if you need to update

SocketServer.

Configure the serial port characteristics and enable the security feature in the
SocketServer. Refer to Configuring Serial Ports and Enabling Security on Page 45 for
detailed set-up procedures.

Refer to Installing the Secure COM Port Redirector on Page 47 for installation procedures.

Refer to Configuring Secure Redirector COM Ports on Page 48 to complete the set up of the
secure COM port redirector.

Connect the serial devices to the DeviceMaster. Refer to Connecting Serial Devices on Page

53 for cabling and connector information.

8 - Introduction DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

NS-Link tty Port Installation Overview

NS-Link tty Port
Installation Overview

Step 1: Hardware
Installation

Step 2: Install
PortVision Plus

Step 3: Program the
DeviceMaster IP
Address

Step 4: Install the NS­Link Device Driver for
Linux

Use the following steps, which are discussed in detail in the subsequent sections, to install
and configure the DeviceMaster to run the NS-Link device driver for Linux operating
systems.

• Step 1: Hardware Installation

• Step 2: Install PortVision Plus

• Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address

• Step 4: Install the NS-Link Device Driver for Linux

• Step 5: Configure Socket Ports

• Step 6: Serial Device Connection

Power up the DeviceMaster. Technical Support suggests installing one DeviceMaster at a
time to avoid configuration problems. Refer to Hardware Installation

on Page 13 for

detailed installation procedures for your DeviceMaster model.

Comtrol recommends connecting the DeviceMaster to a PC or laptop running Windows®
2000/XP/2003/Vista so that you can install PortVision Plus for easy IP address
configuration. See PortVision Plus Requirements

Installing PortVision Plus

on Page 33 to install PortVision Plus.

on Page 33 and use then refer to

See Configuring the Network Settings on Page 34 for procedures on IP address
configuration procedures.

Locate and unpackage the driver assembly. Refer to the readme file packaged with the
Linux driver assembly for driver installation and configuration procedures for the tty port.

Step 5: Configure
Socket Ports

Step 6: Serial Device
Connection

TCP/IP Socket Port
Installation Overview

Step 1: Hardware
Installation

Step 2: Install
PortVision Plus

Step 3: Program the
DeviceMaster IP
Address

Optionally, you may need to configure one or more ports for socket mode. See Socket Port

Configuration on Page 49 for information about configuring socket ports using the Server

Configuration web page.

Connect the serial devices to the DeviceMaster. Refer to Connecting Serial Devices on Page

53 for cabling and connector information.

Use the following steps, which are discussed in detail in the subsequent sections, to
configure DeviceMaster socket ports.

• Step 1: Hardware Installation

• Step 2: Install PortVision Plus

• Step 3: Program the DeviceMaster IP Address

• Step 4: Update SocketServer

on Page 10

• Step 5: Configure the Socket Ports on Page 10

• Step 6: Serial Device Connection on Page 10

Power up the DeviceMaster. Technical Support suggests installing one DeviceMaster at a
time to avoid configuration problems. Refer to Hardware Installation

on Page 13 for

detailed installation procedures for your DeviceMaster model.

Comtrol recommends connecting the DeviceMaster to a PC or laptop running Windows®
2000/XP/2003/Vista so that you can install PortVision Plus for easy IP address
configuration. See PortVision Plus Requirements

Installing PortVision Plus

on Page 33 to install PortVision Plus.

on Page 33 and use then refer to

See Configuring the Network Settings on Page 34 for procedures on IP address
configuration procedures.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Introduction - 9

Step 4: Update SocketServer

Step 4: Update
SocketServer

If necessary, update SocketServer. You can use Checking the SocketServer Version on Page

36 and then refer to Locating Software and Documentation on Page 10 to locate the latest

version on the web site. See Uploading SocketServer
SocketServer.

Step 5: Configure the
Socket Ports

Step 6: Serial Device
Connection

Configure the serial socket ports using the PortVision Plus property pages or enter the IP
address in a web browser and use the SocketServer web pages.

Connect the serial devices to the DeviceMaster. Refer to Connecting Serial Devices on Page

53 for cabling and connector information.

Locating Software and Documentation

You can access the appropriate software assembly, PortVision Plus, and the DeviceMaster
documentation from the CD shipped with the DeviceMaster. Optionally, if you know what
you need for your installation, you can download the latest files using these internet links.

If you are not sure what files are required for your installation, each installation and
configuration overview also provides links to the required files in this Guide.

PortV ision Plus

SocketServer

Bootloader

on Page 37 if you need to update

Software Operating Systems Web

Windows 2000 (32-bit)
Windows XP (32/64-bit)
Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bit)
Windows Vista (32-bit)

The firmware that comes pre­installed on your DeviceMaster
platform, which provides an interface
to TCP/IP socket mode configuration
and services.

The operating system that runs on
the DeviceMaster hardware during
the power on phase, which then
loads SocketServer.

NS-Link Device Drivers and Installation Documentation

Windows 2000 (32-bit)

Device driver (COM ports)

Windows XP (32/64-bit)
Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bit)
Windows Vista (32/64-bit)

NS-Link User Guide for
Windows

Linux (32/64-bit) Device driver (tty ports)

Secure COM Port Redirector

Windows 2000 (32-bit)
Windows XP (32/64-bit)
Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bit)

Secure COM port redirector

Windows Vista (32/64-bit)

10 - Introduction DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Installation Document (this guide)

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide

Port Testing and Monitoring Applications

Developer’s Kit

Developer’s Kit

Windows 2000 (32-bit)
Windows XP (32/64-bit)
Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bit)
Windows Vista (32-bit)

Comtrol Utilities
(Test Terminal and Port
Monitor)†

Linux (32-bit) LCOM

† Test Terminal and Port Monitor are included in PortVision Plus.

In addition to the standard capabilities of the DeviceMaster they are also a fully­programmable, embedded computing, platform.

If you are interested in writing your own applications for the DeviceMaster or would like
information on how to obtain the Comtrol DeviceMaster Developer's Kit, see http://

www.comtrol.com/products/family/dmrtsdk or please contact your Comtrol sales

representative.

Note: The DeviceMaster PRO is shipped with the Developer’s Kit. The DeviceMaster RTS

supports the Developer’s Kit. The DeviceMaster Serial Hub is not supported in the
Developer’s Kit.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Introduction - 11

Developer’s Kit

12 - Introduction DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Installation Overview

Hardware Installation

The DeviceMaster enables communications with serial devices over an Ethernet network.
The DeviceMaster provides for remote management, configuration, and connectivity
through its 10/100BASE–T Ethernet connection.

Use the links below to locate installation procedures for the following models:

DeviceMaster PRO

Default Network Settings

IP address:

192.168.250.250

Subnet mask:

255.255.0.0

Gate way addres s:

192.168.250.1

DB9 serial ports with dual
Ethernet†† ports

RJ45 serial ports with dual
Ethernet†† ports

DB9 serial port with a single
Ethernet port

Embedded system 1 1-Port - Embedded Model on Page 16

Screw terminal serial ports 2‡

DB9 serial ports 2‡ 2-Port (DB9) 1E/2E Models on Page 22

DB9 serial ports with dual
Ethernet†† ports

RJ45 serial ports with dual
Ethernet†† ports

RJ45 serial ports with a single
Ethernet port

DB9 serial ports with dual
Ethernet†† ports

DB9 serial ports with a single
Ethernet port

† The DeviceMaster RTS 4 and 8-port models may also include DB9 to RJ45 adapters.

†† One of the Ethernet ports on the DeviceMaster is a built-in downstream port for

daisy-chaining DeviceMaster systems or other network-ready devices.

‡ Either Ethernet port on the DeviceMaster RTS 2-port 2E model can be used for daisy-

chaining DeviceMaster systems or other network-ready devices.

8† 4-Port and 8-Port Models

16 16-Port (DeviceMaster PRO) on Page 28

DeviceMaster RTS

1 1-Port - Enclosed Models

2-Port (Serial Terminal) 1E/2E Models on Page
20

4† or
8†

16

16 or 3216/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power

DeviceMaster Serial Hub

8 4-Port and 8-Port Models

16

4-Port and 8-Port Models on Page 24

16-Port (DeviceMaster RTS - External Power
Supply) on Page 26

Supply) on Page 30

16/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power
Supply) on Page 30

on Page 24

on Page 14

on Page 24

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 13

1-Port - Enclosed Models

M4

DIN Rail

Clip

Side View

Press here

Front View

DeviceMaster

Caution

1-Port - Enclosed Models

Use the following procedure to install the DeviceMaster 1-Port.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster on the customer
service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The MAC address (starts

with 00 C0 4E) and serial number are located on a label on the DeviceMaster.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP address, see

Initial Configuration

2. Place the 1-Port on a stable surface and skip to Step 3

on Page 33.

or optionally mount the

DeviceMaster using the mounting flanges or DIN rail adapters.

a. Pick up the DeviceMaster so that the front of the device is facing you.

b. Pick up a DIN rail clip. (The three tines should be on top and

the M4 label should face you.)

c. Slide the DIN rail clip behind the DeviceMaster and line it up

with one of the screw holes o n the De vi ce Master.

d. I ns e r t t he M4 screw into the hole and tighten with a Phillips

screwdriver.

e. Repeat Steps b

through d with the second DIN rail clip. Make

sure the screws on both DIN rail clips line up.

Note: If you need to remove the DeviceMaster from the DIN

rail, exert pressure on the backside of the tabs at the
bottom of both DIN rail clips.

f. Attach the DeviceMaster to the DIN rail.

3. Connect the DeviceMaster port labeled 10/100 ETHERNET to the same Ethernet

network segment as the host PC using a standard network cable.

If you plan on using the NS-Link device driver, make sure that you do not connect
RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has been
configured in the driver. The NS-Link default port setting is RS-232.

4. Apply power to the DeviceMaster using the appropriate procedure for your power
supply.

Note: The supported input voltage (5VDC or 5-30VDC) is printed on the DeviceMaster.

5VDC Power Supply (Barrel Connector)

• Connect the 5VDC power supply to the DeviceMaster and to a power outlet.

•Go to Step 5

14 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

to verify that the DeviceMaster is functioning properly.

1-Port - Enclosed Models

Caution

Earth Gnd

Return

Positive

5-30VDC

+

-

Wire gauge:

AWG 12-22

Screw Terminal Power Connector

5-30VDC with Screw Terminal Power Connector

Use the following procedure power on this model.

Observe proper ESD techniques when connecting and disconnecting the
DeviceMaster.

• Insert the earth ground wire into the earth ground screw terminal.

• Insert the DC positive wire into the positive

screw terminal and the DC return wire into
the return screw terminal.

If you purchased the Comtrol power supply
(separately), the wires are identified below:

- Red = 5-30VDC positive

- White = 5-30VDC return

- Black = earth ground

If you did not purchase a power supply from
Comtrol for the DeviceMaster, see 1-Port

5­30VDC Power Supply on Page 87 for power

requirements.

• U se a small fla t head s cre w to lock th e wi res
into place.

• Verify that each wire has been tightened securely.

• Plug the screw terminal power connector into the
DeviceMaster.

Note: Align the plug properly. The scalloped side of the

screw terminal power connector should be aligned
with the scalloped side of the power jack on the
unit.

• Connect the power supply to a power source.

•Go to Step 5

to verify that the DeviceMaster is functioning

properly.

5. Verify that the Status LED has completed the boot cycle and

network connection for the DeviceMaster is functioning
properly using the table below.

Status

Link/Act If the red Link/Act LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet connection.
Duplex If the red Duplex LED is lit, it indicates full-duplex activity.

100

Note: For additional LED information, go to the Status LED table on Page 97.

6. Go to Initial Configuration

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 15

configure the DeviceMaster for use.

1-Port Enclosed LED Descriptions

The amber Status LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and

it has completed the boot cycle.

Note: The Status LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light
that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

If the red 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working 100 MB Ethernet

connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates a 10
MB Ethernet connection.

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

1-Port - Embedded Model

Caution

Pin 1

Pin 6

1

2

9 10

Ribbon Cable

10-Pin
Socket

Pin 5

Pin 9

DB9
Male

J3

1 - Po r t - E m b e dde d M o de l

Installing the DeviceMaster 1-Port Embedded system follows these basic steps:

• Building the serial ribbon cable (below).

• Mounting the Embedded

• Attaching the Network and Serial Cables

• Connecting the Power and Verifying Installation

on Page 17 and installing light pipes.

on Page 18.

on Page 18.

Observe proper ESD techniques when handling the DeviceMaster.

Building the Serial
Ribbon Cable

Use the following information to build a DB9 serial ribbon cable to connect to the

DeviceMaster 1-Port Embedded IDC10 connector (J3).

J3 Header RS-232 RS-422 RS-485

1 CD Not used Not used

2 DSR Not used Not used

3RxDRxD-Not used

4RTSTxD+TRX+

5TxDTxD-TRX-

6CTSRxD+Not used

7 DTR Not used Not used

8 RI Not used Not used

9 GND Not used Not used

10 Not connected

16 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Mounting the Embedded

Caution

Non-plated/non-grounded mounting holes 0.116” diameter (+/-0.003”).

WARNING: Holes in hatched area are not mounting holes.

Maximum component height above board is 0.55”.

Ethernet connection J2: J2 overhangs board edge by 0.14” and the height is 0.55”.

LED light pipe mounting holes. The LED light pipes are not provided.

Serial port connector J3: 0.1” pin spacing, 0.025” square pin diameter, and 0.230”
pin height.

Debug port connector J4: 0.1” pin spacing, 0.025” square pin diameter, and 0.230”

Power connector; the mating connector is Weidmuller P/N: 152651.

1

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Plated/chassis grounded mounting hole 0.116” diameter (+/-0.003”).

2

pin height.

5-30VDC Model

Caution

Mounting the
E m b e dde d

Use the following procedure to mount the DeviceMaster 1-Port Embedded with the 5­30VDC power supply.

Observe proper ESD techniques when handling the DeviceMaster.

1. Carefully remove the DeviceMaster from the anti-static bag, following standard
electrostatic device handling procedures.

Note: Write down the MAC address located on a label on the bottom (solder side)

center of the DeviceMaster because you may need it during configuration.

2. Mount the DeviceMaster for your environment using 1/4” stand-offs to separate the
DeviceMaster from the base.

3. Use one of the following methods to ground the DeviceMaster.

• Through the power supply by connecting the ground wire on the power cable

using plastic or metal stand-offs.

• Through the chassis, using metal stand-offs. If plastic stand-offs are used to

mount the board, then you must ground the DeviceMaster using the power cable.

Note: The maximum diameter of the metal stand-offs should be 0.175” with a 4-40

machine screw. Metal stand-offs are not provided with the DeviceMaster.

4. Optionally, attach the light pipes. The following light pipes have been tested and found

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 17

to function; Bivar, Inc. (P/N:LP-230) and Ledtronics, Inc.
(P/N:LTP003-0CW-001).

Attaching the Network and Serial Cables

Ethernet
10/100
Connector

J3

12

910

Caution

Caution

Earth Gnd

Return

Positive

5-30VDC

+

-

Wire gauge:

AWG 12-22

Screw Terminal Power Connector

After mounting the DeviceMaster, you are ready to connect the cables.

Attaching the Network
and Serial Cables

Use the following procedure to attach the serial ribbon and Ethernet cables. For a larger
illustration of the system, see 1-Port Embedded

1. Attach the ribbon cable built in Building the Serial Ribbon Cable

on Page 92.

on Page 16 to the

header labeled J3.

2. Connect a standard Ethernet cable from the RJ45 port on the DeviceMaster to your
Ethernet hub.

The default serial port setting on the DeviceMaster is RS-232. Do not connect the
serial device until you have configured the serial port settings. You must
configure network settings and upload firmware before configuring the serial
port settings.

Use the next subsection to wire the power terminal connector and verify the hardware
installation.

Connecting the Power
and Verifying
Installation

Use the following procedure to wire the power terminal connector and connect the
DeviceMaster to a power source.

Observe proper ESD techniques when connecting and disconnecting the
DeviceMaster.

1. Insert the earth ground wire into the earth ground screw terminal.

2. Insert the DC positive wire into the positive
screw terminal and the DC return wire into the
return screw terminal.

If you purchased the Comtrol power supply
(separately), the wires are identified below:

• Red = 5-30VDC positive

• White = 5-30VDC return

• Black = earth ground

If you did not purchase a power supply from
Comtrol for the DeviceMaster, see 1-Port

30VDC Power Supply on Page 87 for power

requirements.

3. Use a small flat head screw to lock the wires

5-

into place.

4. Verify that each wire has been tightened securely.

18 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Connecting the Power and Verifying Installation

LEDs

JP1

5. Plug the screw terminal power connector into the DeviceMaster.

6. Connect the power supply to a power source.

7. Plug the screw
term in al p owe r

connector into JP1 on

the DeviceMaster by
aligning the scalloped
sides.

Note: Align the plug

properly. The
scalloped side
of the screw
terminal power
connector
should be
aligned with
the scalloped
side of the
power jack on
the unit.

8. Apply power to the DeviceMaster.

9. Verify the Status LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for the

DeviceMaster is functioning properly using the table below.

The LEDs are located between the RJ45 connector and the power terminal block.

When lit, the amber Status LED (D1) on the DeviceMaster

indicates the devices is fully powered and has completed
the boot cycle.

Status

Note: The Status LED flashes for approximately 15 seconds

while booting. When the Bootloader completes the
cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light that blinks
approximately every 10 seconds.

Link/
Act

Duplex

When lit, the red Link/Act LED (D2) indicates a working

Ethernet connection.

When lit, the red Duplex (D3) LED indicates full-duplex

activity.

When lit, the red 100 (D4) LED indicates a working 100 MB

100

Ethernet connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED is
not lit, it indicates a 10 MB Ethernet connection.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the Status LED table on

Page 97.

10. Go to Initial Configuration
configure the DeviceMaster for use.

LED Descriptions

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 19

2-Port (Serial Terminal) 1E/2E Models

Caution

Signal
Ground†

Chassis
Ground†

Positive†

Return†

5-30VDC

† Wire gauge: AWG 12-22

Signal Ground is used to connect RS-232 devices
later in the installation.

2-Port (Serial Terminal) 1E/2E Models

Use the following procedure to install DeviceMaster 2-port models with serial terminal
connectors. See 2-Port (DB9) 1E/2E Models
connectors.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster unit on the customer
service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The MAC address (starts

with 00 C0 4E) and serial number are located on a label on the DeviceMaster.

2. Attach the DeviceMaster 2-Port to the DIN rail adapter.

3. Connect the power supply and apply power to the DeviceMaster using the power
supply specifications on the product label and the following information.

Observe proper ESD techniques when connecting and disconnecting the

DeviceMaster.

a. Insert the earth ground

b. Insert the DC positive

c. Use a small flat head screw driver to lock the wires into place.

d. Verify that each wire has been tightened securely.

e. Connect the power supply to a power source.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP address, see

4. Use the appropriate method for network attachment of your DeviceMaster 2-port:

DeviceMaster 1E: Connect the 10/100 port to the same Ethernet network segment as

the host PC using a standard network cable.

DeviceMaster 2E: Connect the DeviceMaster 2E using one of these methods:

• Ethernet hub, switch (10/100Base-T), Server NIC (10/100Base-T): Connect

• Daisy-chaining DeviceMaster units: Connect the port labeled E1 (or E2) on the

20 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

on Page 22 if the DeviceMaster has DB9 serial

wire into the chassis
ground screw terminal.
The chassis ground
connection is made only
if the DIN rail is NOT
connected to signal
ground.

wire into the + screw
terminal and the DC
return wire into the ­screw terminal.

If you purchased the
Comtrol power supply
(separately), the wires
are identified below:

• Red = 5-30VDC
positive

• White = 5-30VDC return

• Black = chassis ground

If you did not purchase a power supply from Comtrol for the DeviceMaster, see 2-

Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88 for power requirements.

Initial Configuration

on Page 33.

a 10/100 port to the same Ethernet network segment as the host PC using a

standard Ethernet cable.

first DeviceMaster to the port labeled E1 (or E2) on the second DeviceMaster or

other device using a standard Ethernet cable.

2-Port (Serial Terminal) 1E/2E Models

Caution

Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has
been configured. The default port setting is RS-232.

5. Verify that the Status LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for

the DeviceMaster is functioning properly using the following table.

2-Port LED Descriptions

The STATUS LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and it

ha s comp leted th e boo t cyc le.

STATUS

Note: The STATUS LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately

15 seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light
that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LINK If the LINK (green) LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet connection.
ACT If the ACT (yellow) LED flashes, it indicates network activity.
Note: For additional LED information, go to the STATUS LED table on Page 97.

6. Go to Initial Configuration
configure the DeviceMaster for use.

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 21

2-Port (DB9) 1E/2E Models

Caution

PW1 PW2

Return†

Positive†Positive†

Chassis
Ground†

† Wire gauge: AWG 12-22

6-30VDC

2-Port (DB9) 1E/2E Models

Use the following procedure to install DeviceMaster 2-port models with DB9 connectors.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster unit on the customer

2. Attach the DeviceMaster 2-Port to the DIN rail adapter.

3. Connect the power supply and apply power to the DeviceMaster using the power

Observe proper ESD techniques when connecting and disconnecting the DeviceMaster.

service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The MAC address (starts

with 00 C0 4E) and serial number are located on a label on the DeviceMaster.

supply specifications on the product label and the following information.

a. Insert the earth ground wire into the chassis ground screw terminal.

Note: The chassis ground connection is made only if the DIN rail is NOT

connected to earth ground.

b. Insert the DC positive wire into one of the + screw terminals and the DC return

wire into the - screw terminal.

A second redundant power supply can be connected to the unit by inserting the
DC positive wire into the other + screw terminal and the DC return wire into the

- screw terminal.

The DeviceMaster will
continue to operate if one of
the two connected power
supplies should fail.

I f y ou p ur ch a se d t h e C om tr ol
power supply (separately),
the wires are identified
below:

• Red = 6-30VDC positive

• White = 6-30VDC return

• Black = chassis ground

If you did not purchase a
power supply from Comtrol
for the DeviceMaster, see 2-

Port (DB9) Power Supply on
Page 88 for power

requirements.

c. Use a small flat head screw driver to lock the wires into place.

d. Verify that each wire has been tightened securely.

e. Connect the power supply to a power source.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP address, see

Initial Configuration

on Page 33.

22 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

2-Port (DB9) 1E/2E Models

Caution

4. Use the appropriate method for network attachment of your DeviceMaster 2-port:

DeviceMaster 1E: Connect the 10/100 port to the same Ethernet network segment as

the host PC using a standard network cable.

DeviceMaster 2E: Connect the DeviceMaster 2E using one of these methods:

• Ethernet hub, switch (10/100Base-T), Server NIC (10/100Base-T): Connect

a 10/100 port to the same Ethernet network segment as the host PC using a

standard Ethernet cable.

• Daisy-chaining DeviceMaster units: Connect the port labeled E1 (or E2) on the

first DeviceMaster to the port labeled E1 (or E2) on the second DeviceMaster or

other device using a standard Ethernet cable.

Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has
been configured. The default port setting is RS-232.

5. Verify that the Status LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for

the DeviceMaster is functioning properly using the following table.

2-Port LED Descriptions

The STATUS LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and it

ha s comp leted th e boo t cyc le.

STATUS

Note: The STATUS LED flashes while booting and it takes

approximately 15 seconds for the Bootloader to complete the
cycle. When the Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a
solid, steady light that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LINK

If the LINK (green) LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet

connection.

ACT If the ACT (yellow) LED flashes, it indicates network activity.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the Status LED table on Page 97.

6. Go to Initial Configuration

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

configure the DeviceMaster for use.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 23

4-Port and 8-Port Models

Larger Picture, Page 93

Larger Picture, Page 93

DeviceMaster RTS

Larger Picture, Page 93

DeviceMaster PRO and
DeviceMaster Serial Hub

Caution

Caution

4-Port and 8-Port Models

Use the following procedure to install the DeviceMaster 4-port or 8-port.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster unit on the customer

2. Optionally, attach the mounting brackets using the screws provided in the kit (6-32 1/

service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The MAC address (starts

with 00 C0 4E) and serial number are located on a label on the DeviceMaster.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP address, see

Initial Configuration

on Page 33.

4” flathead machine) or place the DeviceMaster on a stable surface.

Failure to use the correct screws can damage the PCB and void the warranty. Do
NOT use screws that exceed the length of the screws provided with the mounting
bracket kit.

Note: If you ordered the DeviceMaster Rackmount Shelf Kit accessory, use the

document that accompanied that kit or download the document

to mount the

DeviceMaster on the shelf.

3. Connect the DeviceMaster to the same Ethernet network segment as the host PC using
one of the following methods:

• Ethernet hub or switch (10/100Base-T): Connect to the port labeled UP on the

DeviceMaster using a standard Ethernet cable.

• Server NIC (10/100Base-T): Connect to the port labeled DOWN on the

DeviceMaster using a standard Ethernet cable.

• Daisy-chaining DeviceMaster units: Connect the port labeled DOWN on the

first DeviceMaster to the port labeled UP on the second DeviceMaster or other

device using a standard Ethernet cable. Refer to Daisy-Chaining DeviceMaster

2E/4/8/16-Port Units on Page 101 for more detailed information.

Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has
been configured. The default port setting is RS-232.

4. Apply power to the DeviceMaster by connecting the AC power adapter to the
DeviceMaster, the appropriate power cord for your location to the power adapter, and
plugging the power cord into a power source. If you want to provide your own power
supply, see 4-Port

Power Supply on Page 88.

24 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

4-Port and 8-Port Models

LNK
ACT

COL

100

10/100 NETWORK

UP DOWN

5. Verify that the PWR LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for

the DeviceMaster is functioning properly using the table below.

4-Port and 8-Port LED Descriptions

LED on the front panel of the DeviceMaster is lit, indicating you have power
and it has completed the boot cycle.

PWR

Note: The PWR LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light that
blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LNK
ACT

COL

The red LNK ACT LED is lit, indicating that

you have a working Ethernet connection.

If the red COL LED is lit, there is a network

collision.

If the red 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working

100

100 MB Ethernet connection (100 MB
network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates
a 10 MB Ethernet connection.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the PWR LED table on Page 97.

6. Go to Initial Configuration

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

configure the DeviceMaster for use.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 25

16-Port (DeviceMaster RTS - External Power Supply)

Larger picture, Page 94

Caution

Caution

16-Port (DeviceMaster RTS - External Power Supply)

Use the following procedure to install the DeviceMaster RTS 16-port with an external
power supply.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster unit on the customer
service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The serial number and

MAC address (starts with 00 C0 4E) are located on a label on the DeviceMaster.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP address, see

Initial Configuration

2. Place the DeviceMaster RTS on a stable surface, or optionally mount the DeviceMaster
in a rack.

Rack Installation:

a. Attach the L brackets to the interface using the screws supplied with the unit.

b. You can mount the unit facing in either direction.

on Page 33.

c. Attach the L bracket into your rack.

Follow these guidelines when mounting the DeviceMaster RTS in a rack.

• If the DeviceMaster is installed in a closed or multi-rack assembly, the

operating temperature of the rack environment may be greater than the
ambient temperature. Be sure to install the DeviceMaster in an environment
that is compatible with the maximum rated ambient temperature. See http://

www.comtrol.com/products/specifications/99450-3 for temperature

specifications.

• Make sure that the mechanical loading is level to avoid a hazardous

condition; such as, loading heavy equipment in the rack unevenly. The rack
should safely support the combined weight of all equipment in the rack.

• Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation. To ensure

reliable operation of the DeviceMaster and to protect it from overheating,
maintain a minimum of 1 inch of clearance on all sides of the unit.

• AC power inputs are intended to be used with a three-wire grounding type

plug, which has a grounding pin. Equipment grounding ensures safe
operation. Do not defeat the grounding means and verify that the
DeviceMaster is reliably grounded when mounting within the rack.

3. Connect the DeviceMaster RTS to the same Ethernet network segment as the host PC
using one of the following methods.

• Ethernet hub or switch (10/100Base-T): Connect to the port labeled UP on the

DeviceMaster RTS using a standard Ethernet cable.

• Server NIC (10/100Base-T): Connect to the port labeled DOWN on the

DeviceMaster RTS using a standard Ethernet cable.

• Daisy-chaining DeviceMaster units: Connect the port labeled DOWN on the

first DeviceMaster RTS to the port labeled UP on the second DeviceMaster or

other device using a standard Ethernet cable.

Do not connect RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has
been configured. The default port setting is RS-232.

4. Apply power to the DeviceMaster RTS by connecting the AC power adapter to the
DeviceMaster, the power cord to the power adapter, and plugging the power cord into
a power source. See External Power Supply Specifications

on Page 87 if you want to

provide your own power supply.

26 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

16-Port (DeviceMaster RTS - External Power Supply)

LNK
ACT

COL

100

10/100 NETWORK

UP DOWN

5. Verify that the PWR LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for

the DeviceMaster RTS is functioning properly using the table below.

DeviceMaster RTS 16-Port (External Power Supply) LED Descriptions

Red LED on the front panel of the DeviceMaster is lit, indicating you have
power and it has completed the boot cycle.

Red
LED

Note: The LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15 seconds for

the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the Bootloader completes
the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light that blinks approximately
every 10 seconds.

LNK
ACT

COL

The red LNK ACT LED is lit, indicating that you

have a working Ethernet connection.

If the red COL LED is lit, there is a network

collision.

If the red 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working 100

100

MB Ethernet connection (100 MB network, only).
If the LED is not lit, it indicates a 10 MB Ethernet
connection.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the PWR/Status LED table on Page 97.

6. Go to Initial Configuration

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

configure the DeviceMaster for use.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 27

16-Port (DeviceMaster PRO)

Caution

Caution

16-Port (DeviceMaster PRO)

Use the following procedure to install the DeviceMaster PRO 16-port with an external
power supply.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster unit on the customer
service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The serial number and

MAC address are located on a label on the device. The MAC address starts with 00 C0
4E.

2. Place the DeviceMaster PRO on a stable surface, or optionally mount the DeviceMaster
PRO in a rack.

Rack Installation:

a. Attach the L brackets to the interface using the screws supplied with the unit.

b. You can mount the unit facing in either direction.

c. Attach the L bracket into your rack.

Follow these guidelines when mounting the DeviceMaster in a rack.

• If the DeviceMaster PRO is installed in a closed or multi-rack assembly, the

• Make sure that the mechanical loading is level to avoid a hazardous

• Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation. To ensure

• AC power inputs are intended to be used with a three-wire grounding type

3. Connect the DeviceMaster PRO to the same Ethernet network segment as the host PC
using one of the following methods.

• Ethernet hub or switch (10/100Base-T): Connect to the port labeled UP on the

• Server NIC (10/100Base-T): Connect to the port labeled DOWN on the

• Daisy-chaining DeviceMaster units: Connect the port labeled DOWN on the

If you plan on using the NS-Link device driver, make sure that you do not connect
RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has been configured
in the driver. The NS-Link default port setting is RS-232.

4. Connect the power cord into a power source.

5. Apply power to the DeviceMaster PRO by turning on the power switch.

operating temperature of the rack environment may be greater than the
ambient temperature. Be sure to install the DeviceMaster in an environment
that is compatible with the maximum rated ambient temperature (http://

www.comtrol.com/products/specifications/99451-0).

condition; such as, loading heavy equipment in the rack unevenly. The rack
should safely support the combined weight of all equipment in the rack.

reliable operation of the DeviceMaster and to protect it from overheating,
maintain a minimum of 1 inch of clearance on all sides of the unit.

plug, which has a grounding pin. Equipment grounding ensures safe
operation. Do not defeat the grounding means and verify that the
DeviceMaster is reliably grounded when mounting within the rack.

DeviceMaster PRO using a standard Ethernet cable.

DeviceMaster PRO using a standard Ethernet cable.

first DeviceMaster PRO to the port labeled UP on the second DeviceMaster PRO or

other device using a standard Ethernet cable.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP

address, see Initial Configuration

on Page 33.

28 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

16-Port (DeviceMaster PRO)

LNK/
ACT

COL

100

10/100 NETWORK

UP DOWN

6. Verify that the PWR LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for

the DeviceMaster is functioning properly using the table below.

DeviceMaster PRO 16-Port LED Description

Red LED on the front panel of the DeviceMaster PRO is lit, indicating you

Red
LED
(Front
panel)

have power and it has completed the boot cycle.

Note: The LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light
that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LNK/
ACT

COL

The red LNK/ACT LED is lit, indicating

that you have a working Ethernet
connection.

If the red COL LED is lit, there is a

network collision.

If the red 100 LED is lit, it indicates a

100

working 100 MB Ethernet connection (100
MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it
indicates a 10 MB Ethernet connection.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the PWR/Status LED table on Page 97.

7. Go to Initial Configuration

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

configure the DeviceMaster for use.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 29

16/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power Supply)

Caution

16/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power Supply)

Use the following procedure to install the DeviceMaster 16-port or 32-port with an
internal power supply.

1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster unit on the customer
service label provided.

You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The serial number and

MAC address (starts with 00 C0 4E) are located on a label on the DeviceMaster.

Note: Do not connect multiple units until you have changed the default IP address, see

Initial Configuration

2. Place the DeviceMaster on a stable surface, or optionally mount the DeviceMaster in a
rack.

Rack Installation:

a. Attach the L brackets to the interface using the screws supplied with the unit.

on Page 33.

b. You can mount the unit facing in either direction.

c. Attach the L bracket into your rack.

Follow these guidelines when mounting the DeviceMaster in a rack.

• If the DeviceMaster is installed in a closed or multi-rack assembly, the

operating temperature of the rack environment may be greater than the
ambient temperature. Be sure to install the DeviceMaster in an environment
that is compatible with the maximum rated ambient temperature. Refer to
the appropriate link for temperature specifications.

DeviceMaster RTS 16-port: http://www.comtrol.com/products/specifications/

99455-8

DeviceMaster RTS 32-port: http://www.comtrol.com/products/specifications/

99456-5

DeviceMaster Serial Hub: http://www.comtrol.com/products/specifications/

99460-2

• Make sure that the mechanical loading is level to avoid a hazardous

condition; such as, loading heavy equipment in the rack unevenly. The rack
should safely support the combined weight of all equipment in the rack.

• Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation. To ensure

reliable operation of the DeviceMaster and to protect it from overheating,
maintain a minimum of 1 inch of clearance on all sides of the unit.

• AC power inputs are intended to be used with a three-wire grounding type

plug, which has a grounding pin. Equipment grounding ensures safe
operation. Do not defeat the grounding means and verify that the
DeviceMaster is reliably grounded when mounting within the rack.

30 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

16/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power Supply)

Larger picture, Page 94

Larger picture, Page 94

DeviceMaster RTS

Larger picture, Page 94

DeviceMaster Serial Hub

Caution

LNK/
ACT

Duplex

100

10/100 ETHERNET

3. Connect the DeviceMaster port labeled 10/100 NETWORK to the same Ethernet

network segment as the host PC using a standard network cable.

4. Apply power to the DeviceMaster by connecting the appropriate power cord into the

5. Verify that the Status LED has completed the boot cycle and network connection for

If you plan on using the NS-Link device driver, make sure that you do not connect
RS-422/485 devices until the appropriate port interface type has been configured
in the driver. The NS-Link default port setting is RS-232.

power socket on the DeviceMaster, plugging the power cord into a power source, and
turning on the power switch.

the DeviceMaster is functioning properly using the table below.

16/32-Port (Internal Power Supply) LED Descriptions

The amber Status LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and it

ha s comp leted th e boo t cyc le.

Status

Note: The Status LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light that
blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LNK/
ACT

Duplex

The red LNK/ACT LED is lit, indicating that you have a

working Ethernet connection.

If the red Duplex LED is lit, it indicates full-duplex

activity.

If the red 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working 100 MB

100

Ethernet connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED
is not lit, it indicates a 10 MB Ethernet connection.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the Status LED table on Page 97.

6. Go to Initial Configuration
configure the DeviceMaster for use.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Installation - 31

on Page 33 for default network settings and how to

16/32-Port Rack Mount Models (Internal Power Supply)

32 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Initial Configuration

There are several ways to configure network information. Comtrol Technical Support
recommends connecting the DeviceMaster to a PC or laptop running Windows
installing PortVision Plus for initial configuration.

This section shows you how to:

• Install PortVision Plus

• Configure the network address

• Check the SocketServer version on the DeviceMaster

• If necessary, download the latest version SocketServer and upload it into the
DeviceMaster

If you do not want to install PortVision Plus, see RedBoot Procedures
alternate methods to configure the network or upload the latest firmware.

PortVision Plus Requirements

Use PortVision Plus to identify, configure, update, and manage the DeviceMaster on the
following operating systems:

• Windows 2000

• Windows XP

• Windows Server 2003

• Windows Vista

PortVision Plus requires that you connect the DeviceMaster to the same network
segment as the Windows system during the configuration process.

If you have a previous version of PortVision Plus on your system, use the Control Panel to
remove PortVision Plus before installing the latest version.

® and

on Page 75 for

Installing PortVision Plus

During initial configuration, PortVision Plus automatically detects and identifies
DeviceMaster units, if they are in the same network segment by using the Scan Network
button in PortVision Plus.

Use the Software and Documentation CD that came with the DeviceMaster to check for the
latest version of PortVision Plus or use the link below to download the latest version.

1. Execute the pvplus_[version].msi file and follow the installation wizard using one of

the following methods:

• CD Installation: Use the CD menu system to check the version on the CD against

• Download the latest version: http://www.comtrol.com/support/

2. Click Launch and Finish in the last installation screen.

3. Click Scan so that PortVision Plus locates the DeviceMaster.

Note: PortVision Plus locates all DeviceMaster models, including: the DeviceMaster

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Initial Configuration - 33

the latest released version.

download.asp?partnumber=1800294.

500, DeviceMaster AIR, DeviceMaster PRO, DeviceMaster RTS, DeviceMaster

Configuring the Network Settings

Default Network Settings

IP address:

192.168.250.250

Subnet mask:

255.255.0.0

Gate way a ddress:

192.168.250.1

Tree View

List View

4. Go to Step 4
DeviceMaster network settings.

If you need additional information about PortVision Plus, refer to the Help system.

Configuring the Network Settings

Use the following procedure to change the default network settings on the DeviceMaster
for your network.

Note: Technical Support advises configuring one new DeviceMaster at a time to avoid

device driver configuration problems. If you want to configure multiple

DeviceMasters using the Assign IP to Multiple Devices option, see Configuring

Multiple DeviceMasters Network Addresses on Page 68.

The following procedure shows how to configure a single DeviceMaster connected to the
same network segment as the Windows system.

1. If you have not done so, install PortVision Plus (Installing PortVision Plus

2. Start PortVision Plus using the PortVision Plus desktop shortcut or from the Start
button, click Programs, Comtrol, PortVision Plus.

3. If this is the first time you have opened PortVision Plus, click Scan and then Yes to

locate DeviceMasters on the network.

Note: PortVision Plus will locate all Comtrol DeviceMaster models, including:

4. Highlight the DeviceMaster for which you want to program network information and

open the Configure Device screen using one of these methods.

Serial Hub and DeviceMaster UP.

in the next section, Configuring the Network Settings, to program the

on Page 33).

DeviceMaster 500. DeviceMaster AIR, DeviceMaster PRO, DeviceMaster RTS,
DeviceMaster Serial Hub and DeviceMaster UP.

• Double-click the DeviceMaster in the List View pane.

•Click Config.

• Right-click the DeviceMaster in the List View pane and click Configure Device.

Note: See the PortVision Plus Help system for information about using PortVision

34 - Initial Configuration DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Plus.

Configuring the Network Settings

5. Optionally, rename the DeviceMaster in the Device Name field.

6. Change the DeviceMaster network properties as required for your site.

• If you want to run the DeviceMaster using the MAC addressing scheme, click

Disable IP.

•To use the DeviceMaster with DHCP, click DHCP IP, and make sure that you

provide the MAC address of the device to the network administrator. Make sure
that the administrator reserves the IP address, subnet mask and g ateway address
of the DeviceMaster in the DHCP server.

• To program a static IP address, click Static IP a nd en ter th e app ropri ate v alues for

your site.

Note: For additional information, open the PortVision Plus Help system. Access the

Help system using the Help button or go directly to the help for a specific
property page by clicking the Context menu button ( ).

7. Click Apply Changes to update the network information on the DeviceMaster.

8. Optionally, click Save Settings to a File to create a configuration file that you can use

to configure other DeviceMasters.

If you are deploying multiple DeviceMasters that share common values, you can save
the configuration file and load that configuration onto other DeviceMasters.

9. Click Close to exit the Configure Device window.

10. Go to Checking the SocketServer Version

on Page 36 to see if you need to update

SocketServer before setting up the secure COM port redirector or configuring an
environment for socket use only.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Initial Configuration - 35

Checking the SocketServer Version

Version number

Checking the SocketServer Version

SocketServer refers to the web page that is integrated in the firmware that comes pre-

installed on your DeviceMaster platform, which provides an interface to TCP/IP socket
mode configuration and services.

Comtrol recommends verifying that your DeviceMaster contains the latest SocketServer
version before setting up the secure COM port redirector or configuring socket ports to
avoid installation problems.

Note: It is not necessary to update SocketServer if you plan on using an NS-Link device

driver.

Use the following procedure to check the SocketServer version on the DeviceMaster.

1. If necessary, start PortVision Plus and scan the network.

2. Check the SocketServer version number of the Software Version for the DeviceMaster.

3. Check the Comtrol web site to see if a later version

is available.

4. If the version on the web site is later than the version on the DeviceMaster, download
the file and then go to Uploading SocketServer

on Page 37.

If the SocketServer version on the DeviceMaster is current, you are ready to start
setting up the secure COM ports redirector or to configure the sockets using the
SocketServer web page. Use the appropriate discussion to complete the
DeviceMaster configuration process.

• Secure COM Port Set Up on Page 45

• Socket Port Configuration on Page 49

36 - Initial Configuration DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Uploading SocketServer

Uploading SocketServer

Use this section to upload a new version of SocketServer on the DeviceMaster using
PortVision Plus. Technical Support recommends upda ti n g So c k et S e rver before setting up
the secure COM ports redirector or to configure the sockets using the SocketServer web
page to avoid configuration problems.

Note: This section contains SocketServer update information for installations that are

NOT running an NS-Link driver. If you are running an NS-Link device driver, see the

NS-Link User Guide for Windows

1. Make sure that you have located or downloaded the latest SocketServer version

(also available on the CD).

.

2. Right-click the DeviceMaster for which you want to update, click Upload Firmware,
browse to the SocketServer .bin file, and then click Open.

3. Click Yes to the Upload Firmware message that warns you that this is a sensitive

process.

It may take a few moments for the firmware to upload onto the device. The device
will reboot itself during the upload process.

4. Click Ok to the advisory message about waiting to use the device until the status
reads ON-LINE. In the next polling cycle, PortVision Plus updates the List View pane

and displays the new SocketServer version.

You are now ready to complete the DeviceMaster configuration by setting up the secure
COM port redirector or configuring sockets using the SocketServer web page, depending
on your environment.

Go to Secure COM Port Set Up on Page 45

to locate information about setting up secure

COM ports.

If you do not plan on setting up secure COM portsNS-Link, go to Socket Port Configuration

on Page 49 for information about configuring sockets using the SocketServer web page.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Initial Configuration - 37

Uploading SocketServer

38 - Initial Configuration DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Linux Installation

Device Driver Installation

Before installing the NS-Link device driver, the following conditions must be met:

• The DeviceMaster is connected to the network and powered on (Hardware

Installation on Page 13)

• The network information has been configured in the DeviceMaster (Configuring the

Network Settings on Page 34)

•If this is the initial device driver installation, verify that the DeviceMaster contains
the latest version of SocketServer (Checking the SocketServer Version

After NS-Link driver installation and configuration, the same ports can be configured as
TCP/IP sockets using an NS-Link version of the SocketServer web page (Socket Port

Configuration on Page 49).

Refer to the README file provided with the Linux® driver for installation and

configuration procedures. Locate the latest device driver for Linux:

• CD Installation: Use the CD to check the driver version on the CD against the latest

released version. Open the /html/default.htm file to use the menu system.

• Download the latest device driver: http://www.comtrol.com/support/

download.asp?partnumber=1800026.

on Page 36)

Windows Installation

This subsection provides an installation overview for the NS-Link device driver for the
Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and Window Vista operating
systems.

Note: If you require secure COM ports, go to Secure COM Port Set Up on Page 45

not need to install the NS-Link device driver if you plan on configuring secure COM
ports.

1. Locate the latest device driver for Windows and NS-Link User Guide for Windows:

• CD Installation: You can use the CD to check the driver version on the CD against

the latest released version.

• Download the latest device driver: http://www.comtrol.com/support/

download.asp?partnumber=1800288.

• Download the latest NS-Link User Guide for Windows, which contains detailed

installation and configuration information or procedures to update an existing
installation: http://www.comtrol.com/support/

download.asp?partnumber=2000339

2. Unzip the driver assembly.

. You do

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Device Driver Installation - 39

Windows Vista: NS-Link Installation

3. Go to the appropriate procedure to install the driver. The device driver for Windows
installation follows these steps for each DeviceMaster. If you have multiple
DeviceMasters, you must repeat this process for each DeviceMaster.

• Windows Vista: NS-Link Installation

on Page 40

• Windows XP and Windows Server 2003: NS-Link Installation on Page 41

• Windows 2000: NS-Link Installation on Page 42

Windows Vista: NS­Link Installation

After locating the latest driver (Page 39) and extracting the files, use this procedure to
install and configure the NS-Link device driver for your DeviceMaster.

1. From the Start button, click Settings, Control Panel and then double-click Add
Hardware.

2. Click Next when the Add Hardware wizard starts.

3. Click Install the hardware that I manually select from a list (Advanced) and Next.

4. Highlight Multi-port serial adapters and then click Next.

5. Click Have Disk, Browse and locate the unzipped driver files, click Open and then
click OK.

Note: Select any .inf file and the driver executes the appropriate file for your

DeviceMaster installation.

6. Highlight the DeviceMaster in the Models list and click Next.

7. Click Next to start the driver installation.

8. If necessary, click Install this driver software anyway at the prompts to proceed for

the DeviceMaster and first port.

Note: It may take up to several moments for the operating system to load the driver

on the first port.

9. Click Finish to complete this part of the installation process.

10. At the Windows needs to install driver software for your Comtrol NS-Link Port, click

Locate and install driver software automatically (Recommended) and Next.

11. If necessary, click Install this driver so ftware anyway to proceed.

12. Click Close when The software for this device has been successfully installed screen

appears and close the Control Panel.

13. Go to Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows

on Page 43 to begin NS-Link driver

configuration.

If you are installing multiple DeviceMaster, repeat this procedure for each DeviceMaster.

40 - Device Driver Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Windows XP and Windows Server 2003: NS-Link Installation

Windows XP and
Windows Server 2003:
NS-Link Installation

After locating the latest driver (Page 39) and extracting the files, use this procedure to
install and configure the NS-Link device driver for your DeviceMaster.

1. From the Start button, click Control Panel and then double-click Add Hardware.

2. Click Next when the Add Hardware Wizard starts.

3. Click Yes, I have already connected the hardware and then Next.

4. Highlight Add a new hardware device (at the bottom of the list) and click Next.

5. Click Install the hardware that I manually select from a list (Advanced) and Next.

6. Highlight Multi-port serial adapters and then click Next.

7. Click Have Disk, Browse and locate the unzipped driver files, click Open and then
click OK.

Note: You do not need to select a specific .inf file, the driver uses the appropriate file

for your DeviceMaster installation.

8. Highlight the DeviceMaster in the Models list and click Next.

9. Click Next to start the driver installation.

10. If necessary, click Continue Anyway to proceed for the DeviceMaster and the first

port.

Note: It may take up to several moments for the operating system to load the driver

on the first port.

11. Click Finish to complete this part of the installation process for the DeviceMaster.

12. Click Install the software automatically (Recommended) and then click Next.

13. If necessary, click Continue Anyway to proceed.

14. Click Finish to complete the driver installation process for this port.

Note: You may need to wait a few moments while the operating system creates a port

for the DeviceMaster.

15. Repeat Steps 12

through 14 for each remaining port on the DeviceMaster.

16. If Windows XP, close the Control Panel.

17. Go to Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows

on Page 43 to begin NS-Link driver

configuration.

If you are installing multiple DeviceMaster, repeat this procedure for each DeviceMaster.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Device Driver Installation - 41

Windows 2000: NS-Link Installation

Windows 2000: NS­Link Installation

After locating the latest driver (Page 39) and extracting the files, use this procedure to
install and configure the NS-Link device driver for your DeviceMaster.

1. Click Start, Settings, and Control Panel, and then double-click Add/Remove
Hardware.

2. Click Next.

3. Click Add/Troubleshoot a device and then Next.

4. Highlight Add a new device and click Next.

5. Click No, I want to select the hardware from a list and then Next.

6. Click Multi-port serial adapters and select then Next.

7. Click Have Disk, Browse to locate the unzipped installation files or enter the path,

and then click Ok.

For example, if you extracted the driver to the default subdirectory, enter:

C:\Comtrol.

Note: You do not need to select a specific .inf file, the driver uses the appropriate file

for your DeviceMaster installation.

8. From the Models list, highlight the DeviceMaster and click Next.

9. Click Next to start the driver installation.

10. Click Ye s to continue the installation.

Note: It may take up to several moments for Windows 2000 to load the driver for each

port on the DeviceMaster. A Found New Hardware message will display for each
port on the DeviceMaster.

11. Click Finish to complete the driver installation process for this port.

12. Close the Control Panel.

13. Go to Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows

on Page 43 to begin NS-Link driver

configuration.

If you are installing multiple DeviceMaster, repeat this procedure for each DeviceMaster.

42 - Device Driver Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows

The DeviceMaster must be connected to the local network segment or directly to a NIC on
the host system to operate in MAC mode to perform the following procedure.

1. Access the Properties page for the DeviceMaster.

a. Right-click My Computer or Computer, click Manage, and then highlight Device

Manager.

b. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the DeviceMaster you

want to configure, and then click Properties.

2. Click the Network Connections tab.

3. Enter the address from
the MAC address label on
the DeviceMaster or
select the MAC address
from the drop list.

Note: If you enter the

MAC address,
make sure that
you use the

correct format: 00
C0 4E xx xx xx. A

space must
separate each
pair of digits.

4. Click OK to program the

driver with the MAC
address of the
DeviceMaster.

The Properties page

closes automatically.

5. Re-open the Properties
page for the

DeviceMaster and select the Network Connections tab.

6. Click Program Addresses into Device.

7. Click the appropriate
addressing method in the

Program IP Address into
Device dialog for your

environment and click Ok.

8. To run the driver using an IP

address, click IP Mode in the

Network Connection Mode

group and Ok when you are
returned to the Network
Connections tab.

9. Go to the next subsection to
configure the COM port
properties.

Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Device Driver Installation - 43

Configuring COM Port Properties for Windows

Configuring COM Port Properties for Windows

The following is a COM port properties configuration overview. Use the NS-Link User

Guide for Windows (also available on the CD) or the NS-Link Help system for detailed

configuration information.

1. Access the Properties page for the DeviceMaster.

a. Right-click My Computer or Computer, click Manage, and then highlight Device

Manager.

b. Expand the Multi-port serial adapters entry, right-click the DeviceMaster you

want to configure, and then click Properties.

2. Click the Port Setting tab.

3. Highlight the COM port that you want to configure and click Properties.

4. Complete the screen
appropriately for the serial
device that you plan on
connecting to the port and click

Ok.

5. If necessary, click the Device
Settings tab to change the default

device settings. See the NS-Link
help system or the NS-Link User
Guide for information.

6. Click Ok to close the

DeviceMaster property page.

7. Close the Device Manager.

8. Refer to on Page 44

Connecting Serial Devices
Page 53 to attach your serial

dev ice.

or

on

44 - Device Driver Installation DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Secure COM Port Set Up

Before configuring security and installing the secure COM port redirector, the following
conditions must be met:

• The DeviceMaster is connected to the network and powered on (Hardware

Installation on Page 13)

• The network information has been configured in the DeviceMaster (Configuring the

Network Settings on Page 34)

• If this is the initial device driver installation, verify that the DeviceMaster contains
the latest version of SocketServer (Checking the SocketServer Version

Secure COM Port Redirector Overview

If you require secure COM ports, you will need to do the following to set up secure COM
ports on the DeviceMaster.

• Configure the serial port characteristics and enable the security feature in the
SocketServer web page

• Install the secure COM port redirector

• Add and configure the DeviceMaster serial port with the secure port redirector

If your site does not require security and you want to configure COM ports, you should
install the NS-Link device driver

on Page 36)

.

Configuring Serial Ports and Enabling Security

The first step to setting up a secure connection on the DeviceMaster is to use
SocketServer to enable the appropriate port or ports and configure DeviceMaster
security.

Note: Make sure that the DeviceMaster contains the latest version of SocketServer before

setting up security on the DeviceMaster.

1. Open the DeviceMaster Server Configuration page using one of these methods:

• Web browser, open a web browser and enter the IP address of the DeviceMaster

that you want to configure.

• PortVision Plus, start PortVision PlusPortVision Plus, right-click the

DeviceMaster that you want to configure, and click Web Manager.

2. Click the port for which you want to configure.

Note: Click the ? in a configuration area for field specific information or the Help

button at the bottom of the page to view page level help.

3. If connecting an RS-422 or RS-485 serial device to this port, select the appropriate
setting from the Mode drop list.

4. If necessary, set additional Serial Configuration parameters to match your serial
dev ice.

5. Click Enable in TCP Connection Configuration.

6. Optionally, click Clone if you want to set up all of the DeviceMaster serial ports with

the same serial characteristics.

Note: You will need the DeviceMaster IP address and the TCP port number to if you

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Secure COM Port Set Up - 45

Configuring Serial Ports and Enabling Security

7. Click Save.

8. Click Ok at the Configuration Updated page.

9. Click Configure Security.

10. Click Enable Secure Data Mode so that TCP connections that carry data to/from the

serial ports are encrypted using SSL or TLS security protocols. If this is enabled the
following DeviceMaster features are disabled:

• The Comtrol proprietary MAC mode Ethernet driver protocol used in NS-Link and

both UDP and MAC mode serial data transport

• The e-mail feature in SocketServer

• The RFC1006 features in SocketServer

11. Click Enable Secure Config Mode if you want to provide this level of security, which

disables the following features:

• Telnet access to administrative and diagnostic functions is disabled.

• SSH access is still allowed.

• Unencrypted access to the web server via port 80 (http:// URLs) is disabled.

Encrypted access to the web server via port 443 (https:// URLs) is still allowed.

• Administrative commands that change configuration or operating state which are

received using the Comtrol proprietary TCP driv er protocol on TCP port 4606 are
ignored.

• Administrative commands that change configuration or operating state that are

received using the Comtrol MAC mode proprietary Ethernet protocol number
0x11FE are ignored.

12. If necessary, click Enable Telnet/ss h.

13. If required, click Set to configure RSA key pair used by SSL and SSH servers.

This is used to sign the Server RSA Certificate in order to verify that the DeviceMaster
is authorized to use the server RSA i den tity c er tif ic ate. Possession of the private
portion of this key pair allows somebody to pose as the DeviceMaster If the Server
RSA Key is to be replaced, a corresponding RSA identity certificate must also be
generated and uploaded or clients are not able to verify the identity certificate.

a. Click Browse to locate the server RSA key.
b. Click Upload.

14. If required, click Set to configure the RSA identity certificate that the DeviceMaster

uses during SSL/TLS handshaking to identify itself.

It is used most frequently by SSL server code in the DeviceMaster when clients open
connections to the DeviceMaster's secure web server or other secure TCP ports. If a
DeviceMaster serial port configuration is set up to open (as a client) a TCP connection
to another server device, the DeviceMaster also uses this certificate to identify itself
as an SSL client if requested by the server.

In order to function properly, this certificate must be signed using the Server RSA
Key. This means that the server RSA certificate and server RSA key must be replaced
as a pair.

a. Click Browse to locate the RSA server certificate.
b. Click Upload.

15. If required, click Set to enter the private/public key pair that is used by some cipher

suites to encrypt the SSL/TLS handshaking messages. Possession of the private
portion of the key pair allows an eavesdropper to decrypt traffic on SSL/TLS
connections that use DH encryption during handshaking.

16. If required, click Set to upload the Client Authentication Certificate.

want to configure the secure COM port redirector.

46 - Secure COM Port Set Up DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Installing the Secure COM Port Redirector

If a CA certificate is uploaded, the DeviceMaster only allows SSL/TLS connections
from client applications that provide to the DeviceMaster an identity certificate that
has been signed by the CA certificate that was uploaded to the DeviceMaster.

This uploaded CA certificate that is used to validate a client's identity is sometimes
referred to as a “trusted root certificate”, a “trusted authority certificate”, or a
“trusted CA certificate”. This CA certificate might be that of a trusted commercial
certificate authority or it may be a privately generated certificate that an
organization creates internally to provide a mechanism to control access to
resources that are protected by the SSL/TLS protocols.

To control access to the DeviceMa ster's SSL /T LS prote cte d resources you should
create your own custom CA certificate and then configure authorized client
applications with identity certificates signed by the custom CA ce rtifi ca te.

a. Click Browse to locate the Client Authentication Certificate.
b. Click Upload.

17. After completing the key and certification management, click Save.

18. To configure another port as a secure COM port, update the Serial Configuration (Step

2).

19. Click Reboot for the changes to take affect.

20. If you want to configure a secure COM port, you are ready to install the secure port
redirector using the Installing the Secure COM Port Redirector subsection.

Installing the Secure COM Port Redirector

You can refer to the help system in the secure COM port redirector or use the following
procedure to install the secure port redirector for Windows.

1. Locate the secure COM port redirector on the CD or download

2. Double-click the setup-spr.msi file.

3. Click Next at the Setup Wizard.

4. Click I accept the terms in the License Agreement and Next.

5. Optionally, browse and select a different installation path and then click Next.

6. Verify the installation selections and then click Install.

7. Click Finish to complete the installation and open the secure port redirector.

8. Configure the port with the secure port redirector using the next subsection.

the latest version.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Secure COM Port Set Up - 47

Configuring Secure Redirector COM Ports

Configuring Secure Redirector COM Ports

Use the following procedures to:

• Add a DeviceMaster port

• Configure the port for the secure port redirector

If necessary, refer to the secure port redirector help system for more information.

Adding a Secure Port Use the following procedure to add a secure port or ports.

Note: You must have enabled the security feature in SocketServer and have the IP address

and TCP port numbers to perform the following procedure.

1. If necessary, open the Secure Port Redirector, click Start, Programs, Secure Port
Redirector, and Secure Port Redirector.

2. Click Port and Add.

3. Select an available COM port in the Virtual serial port drop list.

4. Enter the Remote IP address of the DeviceMaster.

5. Enter the TCP port number for which you want to communicate on the DeviceMaster.

6. Click Ok.

7. Repeat Step 2

for each port that you want to use as a secure COM port.

Configuring the Secure
COM Port

Use the following procedure to configure the port.

1. Double-click the port that you want to configure.

2. Optionally click the Connection Settings tab and then click Auto-reconnect when
connection is broken.

3. Click the SSL Security tab and then click Use SSL for connection to remote side.

4. Click the Settings tab and select the appropriate serial port settings.

5. Optional click the Extra Strings tab and enter the appropriate values.

6. Click OK to save the settings for the DeviceMaster.

7. Repeat the above procedure for each port that you want to use as a secure COM port.

You are now ready to connect the serial devices to the DeviceMaster ports. If necessary,
refer to Connecting Serial Devices

on Page 53 for cabling information.

48 - Secure COM Port Set Up DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

SocketServer Overview

Socket Port Configuration

This section discusses the following topics:

• SocketServer Overview

• SocketServer Versions

• Accessing Socket Configuration on Page 51

SocketServer is the name of the TCP/IP socket web page that is integrated in the
firmware that comes pre-installed on your DeviceMaster.

If you want to use any of the ports as COM or tty ports, you should first install and
configure the NS-Link device driver for your operating system, and then configure the
ports that you want to use as TCP/IP sockets. When you install an NS-Link device driver,
an NS-Link version of SocketServer loads on the DeviceMaster. See Device Driver

Installation on Page 39 for device driver installation procedures.

The main SocketServer web page provides access to configure:

• Socket port characteristics for:

-Serial

- TCP connection

- UDP connection

See SocketServer Architecture
support.

• Network settings (after initial configuration)

• Email notification services

• RFC1006 (ISO over TCP)

Note: For socket service configuration procedures, see the web page Help system or the

PortVision Plus Help system.

on Page 52

on Page 50 for more information about socket port

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Socket Port Configuration - 49

SocketServer Architecture

PC or

Mainframe

LAN/WAN

Ethernet Hub

DeviceMaster

Serial Device

IP socket

application

Ethernet Hub

TCP/IP Socket Mode

DeviceMaster

DeviceMaster

Ethernet Hub

Ethernet Hub

Dumb Terminal

Printer

Serial Tunneling Mode

LAN/WAN

UDP Mode

DeviceMaster

Ethernet Hub

Ethernet Hub

LAN/WAN

1234

Serial Device

In this example, four
PCs receive data
simultaneously from one
serial device.

DeviceMaster

Serial RS-232 connections

SocketServer Architecture

TCP/IP socket mode operation is used to connect serial devices with an application that
supports TCP/IP socket communications addressing.

Serial tunneling mode is used to establish a socket connection between two
DeviceMasters through an ethernet network.

UDP mode is designed for applications that need faster data transmission, or that make
use of UDP’s broadcast capabilities. UDP differs from TCP in that a UDP transmission does
not first require a connection to be opened before sending data and the receiving device
does not issue acknowledgements to the sender.

50 - Socket Port Configuration DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Accessing Socket Configuration

Accessing Socket Configuration

There are several ways to access the socket configuration pages (SocketServer or NS­Link). Use the method that fits your environment best.

• Web Browser

• PortVision Plus

Web B rows e r To access the socket configuration page for the DeviceMaster using a web browser, follow

this procedure.

1. Start your web browser.

2. Enter the IP address of the DeviceMaster in the URL field.

Note: If you do not know the IP address, you can view the IP address in PortVision Plus

3. Click the port number that you want to configure as a socket.

Note: See the web page Help system, if you need information about configuring sockets or

or retrieve the IP address with the NS-Link driver for Windows.

serial tunneling. The Help system provides detailed configuration procedures and
descriptions for all fields.

PortVision Plus There are several ways to access the socket configuration page for the DeviceMaster

using PortVision Plus.

Web Manager Button 1. If necessary, start PortVision Plus, right-click the DeviceMaster that you want to

configure, and click Web Manager.

2. Click the port for which you want to configure socket port settings (serial, TCP
connection configuration, and UDP co nn ec tio n co nf ig ur ati on ).

Note: For socket configuration information see the Help system. Click the ? in a

configuration area for field specific information or the Help button at the

bottom of the page to view page level help. To locate configuration procedures,
scroll to the top of the Help file and view the Table of Contents.

3. Click Save to return to the main page.

4. Optionally, access the following pages to configure additional settings.

a. Click the Network page to change the network settings.
b. Click the Email Settings page to configure email notification services.
c. Click the RFC1006 Settings page to configure RFC1006 settings.

Configure Device Page 1. If necessary, start PortVision Plus, double-click the DeviceMaster that you want to

configure in the List View pane.

2. Click the port Settings tab to configure socket port settings (serial, TCP connection

configuration, and UDP connection configuration).

Note: For socket configuration information click the Help button at the left.

3. Optionally, access the following pages to configure additional settings.

a. Click the Email Settings property page to configure email notification services.
b. Click the RFC1006 Settings property page to configure RFC1006 settings.
c. Click the Port Settings property page to configure serial port characteristics for

socket services.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Socket Port Configuration - 51

SocketServer Versions

Yo ur SocketServer or NS-Link version may be
different than these examples.

SocketServer Versions

The SocketServer Overview discusses the that the default SocketServer web page is the
same as the NS-Link web page. If the NS-Link driver is not running (not installed or
disabled), the default SocketServer loads when you open a web browser session.

52 - Socket Port Configuration DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Connecting Devices

Caution

Connecting Serial Devices

This section discusses connecting your serial devices to the DeviceMaster. In addition, it
provides you with information to build serial or test cables and loopback connectors to
test the serial ports.

Note: Go to Building the Serial Ribbon Cable

DeviceMaster 1-Port Embedded adapter.

Use the appropriate procedure to connect asynchronous serial devices to the
DeviceMaster ports.

Make sure that you have configured the ports using the NS-Link driver or
SocketServer for the correct communications mode before connecting any
devices. The default mode in the NS-Link drivers is RS-232. There is a remote
possibility that connecting a serial device for the wrong mode could damage the
serial device.

• DeviceMaster 1/4

• DeviceMaster 2-Port with Serial Terminals on Page 56

• DeviceMaster 2-Port with Serial Terminals on Page 56

/8/16/32-Port Models

on Page 16 for connector information for the

DeviceMaster 1/4/8/16/32-Port Models

1. Connect your serial devices to the appropriate serial port on the DeviceMaster using
the appropriate cable. You can build your own DB9 or RJ45 cables using the
appropriate discussion:.

• DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

• RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs on Page 61

Note: Refer to the hardware manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need

help with connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

2. Verify that the devices are communicating properly. Go to the appropriate table for
information about the LEDs, which may provide information about the installation.

• 1-Port

• 1-Port Embedded LEDs on Page 54

• LEDs - 4/8-Port with DB9 Connectors on Page 54

• LEDs - 8/16/32-Port with RJ45 Connectors on Page 55

For additional LED information, go to the PWR or Status LED table on Page 97.

(Standard) LEDs on Page 54

on Page 59

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 53

DeviceMaster 1/4/8/16/32-Port Models

TX1*

RX1*

* Represents port number.

Status

Link
Act

Duplex If the red Duplex LED is lit, it indicates full-duplex activity.

100

1-Port (Standard) LEDs

The amber Status LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and

it has completed the boot cycle.

Note: The Status LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light
that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

If the red Link Act LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet connection.

If the red 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working 100 MB Ethernet

connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates a 10
MB Ethernet connection.

1 - Po rt Em b edde d LE D s

When lit, the amber Status LED (D1) on the Dev ic eM aster ind icates the

devices is fully powered and has completed the boot cycle.

Status

Note: The Status LED flashes for approximately 15 seconds while

booting. When the Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a
solid, steady light that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

Link/
Act

When lit, the red Link/Act LED (D2) indicates a working Ethernet

connection.

Duplex When lit, the red Duplex (D3) LED indicates full-duplex activity.

When lit, the red 100 (D4) LED indicates a working 100 MB Ethernet

100

connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates a 10
MB Ethernet connection.

LEDs - 4/8-Port with DB9 Connectors

LINK ACT

If the LINK ACT LED (UP or DOWN) is lit, it indicates a working

Ethernet connection.

COL If the COL LED is lit, it indicates a network collision.

If the 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working 100 MB Ethernet

100

connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates a
10 MB Ethernet connection.

The Rx (amber) and Tx (green) LEDs next

Rx/Tx

to each port provides information about the
network connection of the serial port.

PWR

54 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

When lit, the PWR LED (reverse side from the serial connectors) on

the DeviceMaster indicates the devices is fully powered and has
completed the boot cycle.

Note: The PWR LED flashes for approximately 15 seconds while

booting. When the Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has
a solid, steady light that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

DeviceMaster 1/4/8/16/32-Port Models

TX1*

RX1*

* Represents port number.

Rx

Tx

Rx

Tx

LEDs - DeviceMaster Serial Hub 16-Port with DB9 Connectors

LINK ACT

If the LINK ACT LED (UP or DOWN) is lit, it indicates a working

Ethernet connection.

When lit, the red 100 (D4) LED indicates a working 100 MB Ethernet

100

connection (100 MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates a
10 MB Ethernet connection.

Duplex If the red Duplex LED is lit, it indicates full-duplex activity.

The Rx (amber) and Tx (green) LEDs next

Rx/Tx

to each port provides information about
the network connection of the serial port.

When lit, the Status LED (reverse side from the serial connectors) on

the DeviceMaster Serial Hub indicates the devices is fully powered

Status

and has completed the boot cycle.

Note: The Status LED flashes for approximately 15 seconds while

booting. When the Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has
a solid, steady light that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LEDs - 8/16/32-Port with RJ45 Connectors

LINK ACT

If the LINK ACT LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet

connection.

COL If the COL LED is lit, it indicates a network collision.

If the 100 LED is lit, it indicates a working 100 MB Ethernet connection

100

(100 MB network, only). If the LED is not lit, it indicates a 10 MB
Ethernet connection.

Rx and Tx LEDs next to each port provides

Rx/Tx

information about the network connection of the
serial port.

PWR

(16-Port
with
external
power
supply)

Note: The port LED activity on the DeviceMaster 16/32-Port may be inconsistent until

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 55

When lit, the PWR LED on the DeviceMaster indicates the devices is

fully powered and has completed the boot cycle.

Note: The PWR LED flashes for approximately 15 seconds while

booting. When the Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a
solid, steady light that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

the port has been opened. After a port is opened the LED activity works as
documented.

DeviceMaster 2-Port with Serial Terminals

CTSRxDRTSTxD

RS-232†

RxD+

RxD-

TxD+

TxD-

RS-422

RS-485 Full-Duplex

TRxD+

TRxD-

RS-485 Half-Duplex

† † RS-232 ground must be connected to the appropriate signal ground terminal..

† Wire gauge: AWG 12-22

Signal
Ground

Not connected

Positive†

Return†

5-30VDC

Signal
Ground†

Chassis
Ground†

DeviceMaster 2-Port with Serial Terminals

Use the following information to connect the DeviceMaster UP 2-port.

1. Connect your serial devices to the appropriate serial port on the DeviceMaster UP
using the appropriate cable. You can build your own cables or loopbacks using the
appropriate discussions:

• Serial Terminal (4) Signals (1E)

• Serial Terminal (8) Signals (2E) on Page 57

• DeviceMaster 1E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks on Page 63

• DeviceMaster 2E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks on Page 65

Note: Refer to the hardware manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help

2. Verify that the devices are communicating properly. Use the appropriate table for

with connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

information about the LEDs, which may provide information about the installation.

The STATUS LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and it

ha s comp lete d t he boo t cyc le.

STATUS

Note: The STATUS LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately

15 seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle. When the
Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid, steady light
that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

LINK

If the LINK (green) LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet

connection.

ACT If the ACT (yellow) LED flashes, it indicates network activity.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the STATUS LED table on Page 97.

on Page 56

2-Port LED Descriptions

Serial Terminal (4)
Signals (1E)

Use the following table or drawings for signal information. The signals for SERIAL2 are
the same as SERIAL1.

56 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Serial Terminal (8) Signals (2E)

RS-232†

RS-422

RS-485 Full-Duplex

RS-485 Half-Duplex

CD

DSR

RI TxD

RTS

RxD

CTS

DTR

TxD-

TxD+

RxD-

RxD+

TRxD-

TRxD+

† RS-232 ground must be connected to the appropriate signal ground terminal.

† Wire gauge: AWG 12-22

Signal
Ground

Not connected

Positive†

Return†

5-30VDC

Signal
Ground†

Chassis
Ground†

RS-232† TxD RTS RxD CTS

Serial Terminal (8)
Signals (2E)

RS-422/RS-485

Full-Duplex

RS-485

Half-Duplex

TxD- TxD+ RxD- RxD+

TRxD- TRxD+

† RS-232 ground must be connected to the appropriate signal ground terminal.

Use the following drawings or table for signal information. The signals for SERIAL2 are
the same as SERIAL1.

RS-232 CD DSR RI DTR TxD RTS RxD CTS

RS-422/RS-485

Full-Duplex

RS-485 Half-

Duplex

N/A N/A N/A N/A TxD- TxD+ RxD- RxD+

N/A N/A N/A N/A TRxD- TRxD+ N/A N/A

† RS-232 ground must be connected to the appropriate signal ground terminal.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 57

DeviceMaster 2-Port (1E/2E) DB9 Connectors

DeviceMaster 2-Port (1E/2E) DB9 Connectors

Use the following information to connect the DeviceMaster UP 2-port.

1. Connect your serial devices to the appropriate serial port on the DeviceMaster UP
using the appropriate cable.

Use the following table and the appropiate discussion to build cables or loopback
plugs.

• DB9 Loopback Plugs

• DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) on Page 60

• DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422) on Page 60 (also supports RS-485 full-duplex)

• DB9 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485)

Pin RS-232

1 DCD Not used Not used
2RxD RxD- Not used
3 TxD TxD- TRxD­4 DTR Not used Not used
5GNDNot used† Not used†
6 DSR Not used Not used
7RTS TxD+ TRxD+
8CTS RxD+ Not used
9 RI Not used Not Used

† Pin 5 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used in

the cable.

Note: Refer to the hardware manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help

with connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

2. Verify that the devices are communicating properly. Use the appropriate table for
information about the LEDs, which may provide information about the installation.

on Page 59

DB9 Connector Pinouts

RS-422

RS-485 Full-Duplex

(Master/Slave)

on Page 60

RS-485

Half-Duplex

ST ATUS

LINK
ACT If the ACT (yellow) LED flashes, it indicates network activity.

Note: For additional LED information, go to the STATUS LED table on Page 97.

58 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

2-Port LED Descriptions

The STATUS LED on the device is lit, indicating you have power and it

ha s comp leted th e boo t cyc le.

Note: The STATUS LED flashes while booting and it takes

approximately 15 seconds for the Bootloader to complete the cycle.
When the Bootloader completes the cycle, the LED has a solid,
steady light that blinks approximately every 10 seconds.

If the LINK (green) LED is lit, it indicates a working Ethernet

connection.

DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

Pin 1

Pin 6

DB9 Male

RS-232

RI
CTS
RTS
DSR

GND
DTR
TxD
RxD
CD

Pin 1

Pin 6

DB9 Male

RS-422

Not used
RxD+
TxD+
Not used

Not used*
Not used
TxD­RxD­Not used

Pin 1

Pin 6

DB9 Male

RS-485

Not used
Not used
TRxD+
Not used

Not used*
Not used
TRxD­Not used
Not used

* Pin 5 is tied to ground on the board,

but is not used in the cable.

Pin 1

Pin 5

Pin 6

Pin 9

RS-232 Only
(Back View)

Pin 1

Pin 5

Pin 6

Pin 9

RS-232 Only
(Back View)

The RS-232 loopback plug
also works for RS-422.

You can build your own null-modem or straight-through DB9 serial cables for 1-port and
4/8-port models using the following subsections.

Note: See DeviceMaster 2-Port with Serial Terminals

DB9 connectors..

This illustrates the DB9 connector signals.

DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

on Page 56 for 2-port models with

DB9 Connector Pinouts

Pin RS-232

†† RS-422 RS-485

1 DCD Not used Not used
2RxD RxD- Not used
3 TxD TxD- TRxD­4 DTR Not used Not used
5 GND Not used† Not used†
6 DSR Not used Not used
7RTS TxD+ TRxD+
8CTS RxD+ Not used
9 RI Not used Not Used

† Pin 5 is tied to ground on the board, but is

not used in the cable.

†† The DeviceMaster Serial Hub only supports

RS-232.

Note: If you are using a DB9 to RJ45 adapter, see RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

DB9 Loopback Plugs Loopback connectors are DB9 female serial port plugs, with pins wired together as shown,

that are used in conjunction with application software (Test Terminal or minicom) to test
serial ports. The DeviceMaster is shipped with a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

Note: You can use Test Terminal (Windows) or minicom (Linux) to test the serial ports.

Wire the following pins together to build
additional plugs or replace a missing RS-232
loop ba ck p lug :

• Pins 1 to 4 to 6

•Pins 2 to 3

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 59

• Pins 7 to 8 to 9

on Page 61.

You can use the Support page on the CD shipped with the DeviceMaster or see

Locating Software and Documentation

on Page 10) to locate the NS-Link User Guide

for Windows or the Linux readme file.

DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)

Pin 1

Pin 5

Pin 6

Pin 9

RS-422 Only
(Back View)

DeviceMaster

TxD
RxD
RTS
CTS
DSR

GND

DCD
DTR

Signal

RxD
TxD
CTS
RTS
DTR

GND

DCD

DSR

Signal

DB9

2
3
8
7
4

5

1
6

Pins

DB25

3
2

4

7

8
6

Pins

20

5

Female

DB9

3
2
7
8
6

5

1
4

Pins

RJ45

5
4

1

3

6
7

Pins

2

8

DeviceMaster

TxD+
TxD­RxD+

Signal

Female

DB9

7
3

8

Pins

RxD+
RxD-

Signal

TxD+
TxD-

RxD- 2

DeviceMaster

DB9

1
2
3
4
5

8

6
7

Pins

DCD
RxD
TxD or TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS or TRxD+

Signal

DB9

1
2
3
4
5

8

6
7

Pins
DCD
RxD
TxD or TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS or TRxD+

Signal

Female

RI 9

9RI

RJ45

6
5
4
2
3

8

7
1

Pins

N/A

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

5

6
4

Pins

22

Wire the following pins together for an RS-422 loopback plug:

•Pins 2 to 3

•Pins 7 to 8

DB9 Null-Modem
Cables (RS-232)

DB9 Null-Modem
Cables (RS-422)

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 null-modem ca ble. A null-m odem
cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

Note: You may want to purchase or build a straight-through cable and purchase a null-

modem adapter. For example, a null-modem cable can be used to connect COM2 of
one PC to COM2 of another PC.

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-422 null-modem ca ble.

Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized. Each peripheral manufacturer uses different

pinouts. Please refer to the documentation for the peripheral to determine the
pinouts for the signals above.

DB9 Straight-Through
Cables (RS-232/485)

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 or RS-485 straight-through cable.
Straight-through cables are used to connect modems and other DCE devices. For example,
a straight-through cable can be used to connect COM2 to a modem.

60 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

DeviceMaster

TxD
RxD
RTS
CTS
DSR

GND

DCD
DTR

Signal

RxD
TxD
CTS
RTS
DTR

GND

DCD

DSR

Signal

DB9

2
3
8
7
4

5

1
6

Pins

DB25

3
2

4

7

8
6

Pins

RJ45

4
5
1
8
7

3

6
2

Pins

20

5

Female

RJ45

5
4

1

3

6
7

Pins

2

8

You can build your own null-modem or straight-through RJ45 serial cables using the
following subsections.

RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

Pin RS-232 RS-422 RS-485

1RTS TxD+ TRxD+

2 DTR Not used Not used

3Signal GNDNot used†Not used†

4TxD TxD- TRxD-

5RxD RxD- Not used

6 DCD Not used Not used

7 DSR Not used Not used

8CTS RxD+ Not used

† Pin 3 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used

in the cable.

RJ45 Null-Modem
Cables (RS-232)

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 null-modem cable. A null-modem
cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

Note: You may want to purchase or build a straight-through cable and purchase a null-

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 61

modem adapter. For example, a null-modem cable can be used to connect COM2 of
one PC to COM2 of another PC.

RJ45 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422)

DeviceMaster

TxD+
TxD­RxD+

Signal

RJ45

1

4
8

Pins

Female

RxD+
RxD-

Signal

RxD- 5

TxD+
TxD-

DeviceMaster

DB9

1
2
3
4
5

8

6
7

Pins

DCD
RxD
TxD or TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS or TRxD+

Signal
DCD
RxD
TxD or TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS or TRxD+

Signal

Female

RI

9RI

RJ45

6
5
4
2
3

8

7
1

Pins

N/A

RJ45

6
5
4
2
3

8

7
1

Pins

N/A

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

5

6
4

Pins

22

18

Plug

Top View

Cable

The RS-232 loopback plug also
works for RS-422.

TRxD­TRxD+

Signal

TRxD-

TRxD+

Signal

RJ45

4
1

Pins

RJ45 Null-Modem
Cables (RS-422)

Straight-Through
Cables (RS-232/485)

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-422 null-modem RJ45 cable. A null­modem cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized. Each peripheral manufacturer uses different

pinouts. Please refer to the documentation for the peripheral to determine the
pinouts for the signals above.

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 or RS-485 straight-through cable.
Straight-through cables are used to connect modems and other DCE devices. For example,
a straight-through cable can be used to connect COM2 of one PC to CO M 2 to a m od e m.

RJ45 Loopback Plugs Loopback connectors are RJ45 serial port plugs, with pins wired together as shown, that

are used in conjunction with application software (Test Terminal or Minicom) to test
serial ports. The DeviceMaster is shipped with a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

•Pins 4 to 5

•Pins 1 to 8

• Pins 2 to 6 to 7

Note: You can use Test Terminal

RS-485 Test Cable You can use a straight-through cable as illustrated previously, or build your own cable.

Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized. Each peripheral manufacturer uses different

62 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

(Windows) or minicom
(Linux) to test the serial
ports. You can use the Support page on the CD shipped with the DeviceMaster or see

Locating Software and Documentation

on Page 10) to locate the NS-Link User Guide

for Windows or the Linux readme file.

pinouts. Please refer to the documentation for the peripheral to determine the
pinouts for the signals above.

DeviceMaster 1E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks

RTS RxDTxD CTS

CTS TxDRxD RTS

8237

5324

DB9

DB25

RS-232 Null-Modem Cable

RTS RxDTxD CTS

RxD+ TxD-RxD- TxD+

283

7

3524

DB9

DB25

RS-422 Null-Modem Cable

7

DeviceMaster 1E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks

Use the appropriate discussion to build the following cables:

• Serial Terminal (4) Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)

• Serial Terminal (4) Null-Modem Cables (RS-422) on Page 63

• Serial Terminal (4) Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485) on Page 64

• 1E Loopback Signals on Page 64

on Page 63

Serial Terminal (4)
Null-Modem Cables
(RS-232)

Serial Terminal (4)
Null-Modem Cables
(RS-422)

An RS-232 null-modem cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

An RS-422 null-modem cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized. Each peripheral manufacturer uses different

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 63

pinouts. Please refer to the documentation for the peripheral to determine the
pinouts for the signals above.

Serial Terminal (4) Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485)

RTS RxDTxD CTS

RTS RxDTxD CTS

3728

2435

DB9

DB25

or

TRxD-orTRxD+

RS-232/422 Straight-Through Cable

TxD RxDRTS CTS

Serial Terminal (4)
Straight-Through

RS-232 or RS-485 straight-through cables are used to connect modems and other DCE
dev ices.

Cables (RS-232/485)

1E Loopback Signals Use this drawing to wire a loopback, which is used in

conjunction with application software (Test Terminal or
minicom) to test serial ports.

See the NS-Link User Guide for Windows

about using
Te st Te r mi na l or Using minicom to Test Comtrol Ports
to test the serial ports. Optionally, this information is on
the Software and Documentation CD shipped with the
product.

Wire the terminals together to create a loopback.

•TxD to RxD

•RTS to CTS

64 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

DeviceMaster 2E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks

RS-232 Null-Modem Cable

CD DSR RI DTR RTSTxD RxD CTS

DCD DTR RI DSR CTSRxD TxD RTS

1496 837
820226 5324

DB9
DB25

2

CD DSR RI DTR RTSTxD RxD CTS

RxD+RxD- TxD- TxD+

8237
5324

DB9
DB25

RS-422 Null-Modem Cable

DeviceMaster 2E (Serial Terminals) Cables and Loopbacks

Use the appropriate discussion to build the following cables:

• Serial Terminal (8) Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)

• Serial Terminal (8) Null-Modem Cables (RS-422) on Page 65

• Serial Terminal (8) Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485) on Page 66

• 2E Loopback Signals on Page 66

on Page 65

Serial Terminal (8)
Null-Modem Cables
(RS-232)

Serial Terminal (8)
Null-Modem Cables
(RS-422)

An RS-232 null-modem cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

An RS-422 null-modem cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Connecting Serial Devices - 65

Serial Terminal (8) Straight-Through Cables (RS-232/485)

RS-232/485 Straight-Through Cable

CD DSR RI DTR RTSTxD RxD CTS

DCD DSR RI DTR RTSTxD RxD CTS

169 72 8

62220 4235

DB9
DB25

3

4

8

or

TRxD-orTRxD+

TxD RxDRTS CTSCD DSR RI DTR

Serial Terminal (8)
Straight-Through

RS-232 or RS-485 straight-through cables are used to connect modems and other DCE
dev ices.

Cables (RS-232/485)

2E Loopback Signals Use the drawing below to wire a loopback, which is used in conjunction with application

software (Test Terminal or minicom) to test serial ports.

See the NS-Link User Guide for Windows

about using Test Terminal or Using minicom to

Test Comtrol Ports to test the serial ports. Optionally, this information is on the Software

and Documentation CD shipped with the product.

Wire the terminals together to create
a loopback.

•TxD to RxD

•RTS to CTS to RI

• DTR to CD to DSR

66 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Managing the DeviceMaster

This section discusses the following DeviceMaster maintenance procedures:

• Rebooting the DeviceMaster

• Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMasters

• Configuring Multiple DeviceMasters Network Addresses on Page 68

• Using Configuration Files on Page 69

• Managing Bootloader on Page 70, which also discusses checking the Bootloader

version and downloading the latest Bootloader

• Adding a DeviceMaster to an Existing Installation

• Replacing a DeviceMaster on Page 72

• Restoring Factory Defaults (2-Port, Only) on Page 73

Note: You can optionally refer to RedBoot Procedures on Page 75 if you want to perform

Rebooting the DeviceMaster

There are many ways to reboot the DeviceMaster. Use the method that most fits your
situation.

on Page 68

on Page 72

procedures at the RedBoot level.

Method Procedure

Main screen: Right-click the DeviceMaster or DeviceMasters,

PortVision Plus

Web page

Te lne t T yp e reset.

DeviceMaster
2-Port Models

Optionally, you can power cycle the DeviceMaster.

click Reboot Device and then Yes.

Configure Device screen: Click Reboot Device and then Yes.
Main page: S cr o l l to t he b o t tom o f t h e sc r e e n, c l i ck Reboot and

then Yes: Reboot.

DeviceMaster 2-port models have a reset/restore switch.

• If the reset/restore switch is depressed for less than 2
seconds, DeviceMaster RTS 2-port models reboot.

• If the reset/restore switch is depressed for greater than
approximately 5 seconds it restores the default password
and network setting values.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Managing the DeviceMaster - 67

Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMasters

Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMasters

If the Windows NS-Link driver has been installed, make sure that the driver is disabled
through the Device Manager before uploading SocketServer.

1. If you have not done so, install PortVision Plus (Installing PortVision Plus

and Scan the network.

2. Shift-click the multiple DeviceMasters on the Main screen that you want to update

and use one of the following methods:

•Click the Upload button

• Right-click and then click Upload Firmware

•Click Upload Firmware on the Device menu

3. Browse, click the firmware (.bin) file, Open (Please locate the new firmware), and
then click Yes (Upload Firmware).

It may take a few moments for the firmware to upload onto the device. The device
will reboot itself during the upload process.

4. Click Ok to the advisory message about waiting to use the device until the status
reads ON-LINE.

In the next polling cycle, PortVision Plus will update the List View pane and display the
new firmware version.

on Page 33)

Configuring Multiple DeviceMasters Network Addresses

The DeviceMasters must be on the same network segment for the following procedure to
work.

Optionally, you may want to create a configuration file and also configure the Email,
RFC1006, and Port Settings. See Using Configuration Files
information.

Use the following steps to configure multiple DeviceMasters.

1. If you have not done so, install PortVision Plus (Installing PortVision Plus

and Scan the network.

2. Shift-click the DeviceMasters for which you want to program network information,

right-click, and click Assign IP to Multiple Devices.

3. Enter the starting IP address,
subnet mask, IP Gateway and click

Proceed.

PortVision Plus displays the
programmed IP addresses in the
List View pane after the next
refresh cycle.

on Page 69 for more

on Page 33)

68 - Managing the DeviceMaster DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Using Configuration Files

If you are deploying multiple DeviceMaster units that share common values, you can save

the configuration file (.dmc) from the Main or Configure Device screens in PortVision Plus

and load that configuration onto other DeviceMaster units.

If you save a configuration file from the Main or Configure Device screen, you can choose
what properties you want saved.

Use this procedure to save a configuration file using the Main screen.

1. If you have not done so, install PortVision Plus (Installing PortVision Plus

2. Highlight the device on the Main screen that you want to save its configuration and

3. Browse to the location you want to save the file, enter a file name and click Save.

4. Click the All checkbox or click only the properties that you want saved for each

5. Click Ok to close the Save Configuration Completed message.

Use the following procedure to load a previously saved a DeviceMaster configuration file.
Load a configuration file and apply it to a selected DeviceMaster or DeviceMasters from
the Main or Configure Device screen.

Use this procedure to load a configuration file using the Main screen to one or more
DeviceMaster units.

1. Highlight the device or devices on the Main screen that you want to load and use one

2. Click Yes to the warning that it will take 25 seconds per device and it may also reboot

3. Browse to the location of the configuration file, click the file name and then Open.

4. Click the All checkbox or click only the properties that you want to load for each

5. Close the Load Configuration popup message.

Using Configuration Files

on Page 33)

and Scan the network.

use one of the following methods:

•Click the Save button

• Right-click and then click Save Configuration to File

property page in the configuration file and click Done.

Note: Selecting the All option with multiple DeviceMasters highlighted will apply the

same IP address to all of the selected DeviceMasters.

of the following methods:

•Click the Load button

• Right-click and then click Load Configuration to File

•Click Load Configuration to File on the Device menu

the devices.

property page in the configuration file and then click Done.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Managing the DeviceMaster - 69

Managing Bootloader

Caution

Managing Bootloader

Bootloader refers to the operating system that runs on the DeviceMaster hardware
during the power on phase, which then loads SocketServer.

Note: Typically, you should not update the Bootloader unless advised to do so by Comtrol

Technical Support.

There are several methods and tools that you can use to check the Bootloader version or
update the Bootloader.

• PortVision Plus is the easiest way to check the Bootloader version and uploads the

latest version .

• Redboot can be used to check the Bootloader version and update the Bootloader, if
necessary. See RedBoot Procedures on Page 75

for procedures.

Checking the
Bootloader Version

The following procedure uses PortVision Plus to check the Bootloader version.
Optionally, you can use Redboot, see Determining the Bootloader Version on Page 78

1. If you have not done so, install PortVision Plus (Installing PortVision Plus

on Page 33)

and Scan the network.

2. Right-click the DeviceMaster and click Reboot Device.

3. Click Yes to the Confirm Reboot query.

4. Right-click the DeviceMaster, click Refresh Device as many times as necessary to

catch the reboot cycle in the List View pane. The Bootloader version is briefly
displayed during the reboot cycle before SocketServer

5. Check the Comtrol web site to see if a later version

loads.

is available.

6. Go to the next subsection to upload a new version of Bootloader.

U p loa d in g B o o tlo a der Use the following procedure to upload Bootloader to the DeviceMaster. Typically, you

should not update the Bootloader unless advised to do so by Comtrol Technical Support.

Note: Technical Support does not recommend updating Bootloader across a WAN. For

best results, connect the DeviceMaster directly to a PC or laptop to upload
Bootloader.

Make sure that power is not interrupted while uploading Bootloader. Power
interruption while uploading Bootloader will require that the DeviceMaster must
be sent into Comtrol so that it can be reflashed.

If you are not successful uploading SocketServer into the DeviceMaster, do not
up loa d Bo o t loa de r.

If the NS-Link driver for Windows has been installed, make sure that the driver is
disabled through the Device Manager before uploading Bootloader.

1. If you have not done so, install PortVision Plus (Installing PortVision Plus

on Page 33)

and Scan the network.

2. If necessary, check the Bootloader version and download the latest version.

.

70 - Managing the DeviceMaster DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Uploading Bootloader

3. Right-click the DeviceMaster for which you want to update, click Upload Firmware,
browse to the Bootloader .bin file, and then click Open.

4. Click Yes to the Upload Firmware message that warns you that this is a sensitive

process.

5. Click Ok to the second Upload Firmware message and then click Refresh until the

Bootloader version displays in the List View pane, which should show the new
version.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Managing the DeviceMaster - 71

Adding a DeviceMaster to an Existing Installation

Adding a DeviceMaster to an Existing Installation

Use this procedure to add another DeviceMaster to an existing configuration.

1. Install the DeviceMaster to an Ethernet hub or server NIC. If necessary, see Hardware

Installation on Page 13.

Note: Technical support recommends installing and testing one DeviceMaster at a

time when installing multiple DeviceMasters. In the event troubleshooting must
be done, a single DeviceMaster is easier to resolve than several at once.

2. Power-up the new DeviceMaster and verify that boot cycle completes.

Note: The PWR or Status LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the boot cycle.

3. If required, program an IP address into the new DeviceMaster.

4. Configure serial ports to support the serial devices.

Replacing a DeviceMaster

Follow the appropriate procedure to replace DeviceMaster with another DeviceMaster in
an existing configuration.

Device Programmed
with IP Address

Device Programmed
with MAC Address

Use this procedure to replace hardware if the existing device is programmed for use with
an IP address.

1. Configure the IP address in the new DeviceMaster.

2. Remove the old DeviceMaster and attach a new or spare DeviceMaster.

3. Connect the new DeviceMaster to the network hub or server NIC.

4. Power-up the new DeviceMaster and verify that boot cycle completes.

Note: The PWR or Status LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the boot cycle.

5. If using socket mode, configure any ports as necessary to match the previous
DeviceMaster.

6. Transfer all cabling from the old DeviceMaster to the new DeviceMaster.

7. It is not necessary to shut down and restart the host PC.

Use this procedure to replace hardware if the existing device is using a MAC address for
communications.

1. Remove the old DeviceMaster and attach a new or spare DeviceMaster.

2. Connect the new DeviceMaster to the network hub or server NIC.

3. Power-up the new DeviceMaster and verify that boot cycle completes.

Note: The PWR or Status LED flashes while booting and it takes approximately 15

seconds for the Bootloader to complete the boot cycle.

4. If you are using NS-Link, change the MAC address of the new DeviceMaster in the NS­Link driver to reflect the new DeviceMaster.

5. If using socket mode, configure any ports as necessary to match the previous
DeviceMaster.

6. Transfer all cabling from the old DeviceMaster to the new DeviceMaster.

7. Restart the host PC.

72 - Managing the DeviceMaster DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Restoring Factory Defaults (2-Port, Only)

Use the following procedures to restore the DeviceMaster to the factory defaults.

If Technical Support advises you to restore the DeviceMaster factor y defa ults, depre ss the

Reset/Restore switch for greater than 5 seconds.

Restoring the DeviceMaster resets the following to their factory defaults:

• Network settings

•Password

•Telnet enable

•Start up time-out

•SSL enable

•Telnet time-out

Restoring Serial Port Settings

Use the web page and/or the NS-Link device driver for Windows to restore the serial port
settings to their default values.

The NS-Link serial port settings are independent of the socket serial port settings on the
web page. If you are using COM ports and also have configured the port for socket
services, you must restore the default port settings in the driver and web page.

Restoring Factory Defaults (2-Port, Only)

NS-Link COM Port Click Defaults (and if appropriate, Clone) and Ok in the NS-Link COM Properties screen to

reset the serial port settings.

If necessary, refer to the NS-Link User Guide for Windows

(also available on the CD) for

additional information about NS-Link.

Socket Port Use the following procedure to reset the socket port serial setti ng s.

1. Open the DeviceMaster web page (Accessing Socket Configuration

on Page 51).

2. Scroll to the bottom of the Server Configuration page and click Reboot.

3. Click Set configuration for all ports to factory default settings and the click Yes,
Reboot.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Managing the DeviceMaster - 73

Socket Port

74 - Managing the DeviceMaster DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Overview

#!DM
RedBoot>dis
Loading disabled

RedBoot Procedures

Use this section as a reference if you want to perform tasks in Redboot. Typically, most of
these procedures can be performed using PortVision Plus.

You can use a serial connection between Port 1 on the DeviceMaster and a COM port on a
PC. If you plan on using the serial method, you will need a null modem cable and a
terminal program installed and configured on the PC.

Note: Use the serial connection method, if the DeviceMaster is not on the same Ethernet

You can use a telnet connection, if the DeviceMaster is locally accessible by Ethernet.

If necessary, see Establishing a Serial Connection

Connection on Page 76 to disable the Bootloader before performing any of these

procedures.

network segment as the PC.

on Page 75 or Establishing a Telnet

Establishing a Serial
Connection

Use the following procedure to set up serial connection with a terminal server program
(for example, Test Terminal (WCom2), HyperTerminal or Minicom) and the
DeviceMaster. Test Terminal (WCom2) is available in PortVision Plus or you can also
install the Comtrol Utility package.

1. Connect a null-modem cable from an available COM port on your PC to Port 1 on the

DeviceMaster.

Note: See DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

Loopback Plugs on Page 61 to build a null-modem cable.

2. Configure a terminal server program (such as, HyperTerminal or Minicom) to the
following values:

• Bits per second = 57600

• Data bits = 8

• Parity = None

• Stop bits = 1

• Flow control = None

3. Reset the DeviceMaster.

Note: Depending on the model, disconnect and reconnect the power cable (external

power supply and no power switch) or turn the power switch on and then off
(internal power supply).

4. Immediately type #!DM and press Enter in the

terminal program.

5. At the RedBoot> prompt, type dis, and press Enter.

Note: If you do not disable the loading feature of the

Bootloader within the time-out period (default
is fifteen seconds), an application will be loaded from flash and started. If this
happens, repeat Steps 3 through 5. The #!DM command is the only case­sensitive command and must be in uppercase.

6. Verify that the system responds with a Loading disabled message.

on Page 59 or RJ45 Serial Cables and

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B RedBoot Procedures - 75

Establishing a Telnet Connection

*********************************************
**
** Comtrol DeviceMaster Bootloader Version 3.05
** RedBoot(tm) environment - built 08:13:02, Apr 4 2008
** Platform: Comtrol DeviceMaster (ARM 7TDMI)
** Portions Copyright (C) 2000. Red Hat, Inc.
** Portions Copyright (C) 2001-2008 Comtrol Corp.
*********************************************

FLASH: 64 blocks of 65536 bytes each
FLASH: 4194304 bytes (0x05000000 - 0x05400000)
RAM: 8126464 bytes (0x00000000 - 0x007c0000)
RedBoot> dis
Loading disabled
RedBoot> _

7. Go to the appropriate task:

• Determining the Network Settings

on Page 77

• Configuring the Network Settings on Page 77

• Determining the Bootloader Version on Page 78

• Resetting the DeviceMaster on Page 78

• Uploading Firmware on Page 79

• Configuring Passwords on Page 82

• Redboot Command Overview on Page 83.

Establishing a Telnet
Connection

Use the following procedure to telnet to the DeviceMaster.

1. Open a telnet session, enter the DeviceMaster IP address. If using Windows, open a

Command window and type telnet [ip_address].

Note: Press the Enter key if you have not programmed a password or use the

password previously configured. The DeviceMaster does not come pre­programmed with a password.

2. Type reset, and close the session.

3. Open a new telnet session, enter the DeviceMaster IP address, and the password.

4. Type dis to disable the Bootloader.

5. Verify that the system responds with a Loading disabled message.

6. Go to the appropriate task:

• Determining the Network Settings

on Page 77

• Configuring the Network Settings on Page 77

• Determining the Bootloader Version on Page 78

• Resetting the DeviceMaster on Page 78

• Uploading Firmware on Page 79

• Configuring Passwords on Page 82

• Redboot Command Overview on Page 83.

76 - RedBoot Procedures DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Determining the Network Settings

RedBoot>dis
Loading disabled

RedBoot> ip
IP Config: IpAddr 192.168.250.250 IpMask 255.255.0.0 IpGate 192.168.250.1

RedBoot>

Default Network Settings

IP address:

192.168.250.250

Subnet mask:

255.255.0.0

Gate way addres s:

192.168.250.1

RedBoot>dis
Loading disabled

RedBoot> ip

###.###.###.### ###.###.###.### ###.###.###.###

RedBoot> reset
... Resetting

RedBoot> ip
IP Config: IpAddr

###.###.###.### IpMask ###.###.###.### IpGate ###.###.###.###

If you are not sure what the network information is on a DeviceMaster, you can perform
the following procedure.

1. Establish communications with the DeviceMaster using the serial (Page 75) method.

2. At the RedBoot prompt, type ip.

The IP address, subnet mask, and IP gateway values will display.

Note: Optionally, you can install PortVision Plus on a Windows system on the network and

see the IP information in the List View pane.

Configuring the Network Settings

The following subsections show you how to establish a communications link with
Redboot on the DeviceMaster, by using one of these methods:

• Serial connection between Port 1 on the DeviceMaster and a COM port on a PC.

If you do not know the IP address of the DeviceMaster you must use a serial
connection to communicate with the DeviceMaster.

• Telnet connection requires that you know the IP address. In addition, the IP address
must also be valid for the network to which it is attached. For example: The network
segment must be 192.168.250.x to telnet to the DeviceMaster default IP.

Note: Optionally, you can install PortVision Plus on a Windows system on the network and

use the Configure Device window to configure network settings.

Use the following procedure to program the IP address using Redboot.

1. Establish communications with the DeviceMaster using the serial (Page 75) or telnet
(Page 76) method.

2. Enter ip [addr mask gateway] and press the Enter key to configure the IP address.

Where:

addr = IP address you want to use
mask = matches you network subnet mask
gateway = assigned by your network administrator

Make sure that each value is separated by a space.

Determining the Network Settings

3. Verify that Redboot responds with your configured network information or reissue
the command.

4. Type reset to reset the DeviceMaster, if you do not have any other related Redboot

tasks.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B RedBoot Procedures - 77

Determining the Bootloader Version

RedBoot> version

*********************************************
**
** Comtrol DeviceMaster Bootloader Version 3.05
** RedBoot(tm) environment - built 08:13:02, Apr 4 2008
** Platform: Comtrol DeviceMaster (ARM 7TDMI)
** Portions Copyright (C) 2000. Red Hat, Inc.
** Portions Copyright (C) 2001-2008 Comtrol Corp.
*********************************************

FLASH: 64 blocks of 65536 bytes each
FLASH: 4194304 bytes (0x05000000 - 0x05400000)
RAM: 8126464 bytes (0x00000000 - 0x007c0000)
RedBoot>

Determining the Bootloader Version

Use the following procedure to determine what Bootloader version is loaded in the
DeviceMaster.

1. Establish communications with the DeviceMaster using the serial (Page 75) or telnet
(Page 76) method.

2. At the RedBoot prompt, type version.

The Bootloader information displays.

3. To update the Bootloader on the DeviceMaster, make sure that you download the
latest version and see Managing Bootloader

4. Type reset to reset the DeviceMaster, if you do not have any other related Redboot

ta s ks .

Note: Optionally, you can install PortVision Plus on a Windows system on the network and

see the Bootloader version in the List View pane. Reboot the DeviceMaster, right­click the DeviceMaster and click Refresh Device until the Bootloader version
displays. The Bootloader version is only displayed for a few moments.

on Page 70.

Resetting the DeviceMaster

When you have completed your tasks in Redboot, you must enter a reset command at the
RedBoot> prompt for the DeviceMaster to b eg in o pera tio n.

Note: The LEDs on the DeviceMaster will go through the power up sequence. The

DeviceMaster has completed its reset cycle when the PWR or Status LED is lit and it

stops flashing.

78 - RedBoot Procedures DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Uploading Firmware

#!DM
RedBoot>dis
Loading disabled

RedBoot> load -r -b 0 -m x
CC

The file name in this screen shows the
Bootloader.

Uploading Firmware

Use the appropriate procedure for your environment:

• Serial Method

on Page 79

• Telnet Method on Page 80

Note: Optionally, you can install PortVision Plus on a Windows system on the network and

upload firmware. PortVision Plus is the recommended method for uploading
firmware.

Serial Method The procedure for updating the Bootloader and SocketServer are the same, but the .bin

files are unique.

1. Verify that you have the .bin file (Locating Software and Documentation

and cable Establishing a Serial Connection

on Page 75).

on Page 10)

2. Connect a null modem cable from an available COM port on your PC to Port 1 on the

DeviceMaster.

3. Start the terminal program and configure your terminal server program (for
example, HyperTerminal or minicom) to the following values:

• Bits per second = 57600

• Data bits = 8

• Parity = None

• Stop bits = 1

• Flow control = None

4. Reset the DeviceMaster (disconnect and reconnect the power cable).

5. Immediately type #!DM and press Enter in your terminal program.

6. At the RedBoot> prompt, type dis, and press Enter.

Note: If you are unsuccessful in disabling the Bootloader within ten seconds, type

reset, #!DM, and dis again. The #!DM command is the only case-sensitive

command and must be in uppercase.

7. Verify that the system responds with an Loading disabled message.

8. Type load -r -b 0 -m x at the RedBoot> prompt and press Enter.

9. Upload the file using Xmodem for the
protocol. For example, if you are using
HyperTerminal:

a. Click Transfer.
b. Click Send File.

c. Browse to the location where you

d. C l ic k Xmodem as the protocol.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B RedBoot Procedures - 79

stored the file from Locating Software

and Documentation on Page 10.

Telnet Method

RedBoot> go

... Erase from 0x05030000-0x050c0000: .........

... Program from 0x00000000-0x00084801 at 0x05060000: ...
... Erase from 0x050f0000-0x05400000: .
... Program from 0x007a0000-0x007b0000 at 0x053f0000: .

CCCCCCRaw load done: 542721 bytes read
Address range: 00000000-00084800, Entry point: 00000000,

xyzModem - CRC mode, 4241(SOH)/0(STX)/0(CAN) packets, 8 tries

RedBoot> fis list
Name FLASH addr Mem addr Length Entry point
FIS_directory 0x053F0000 0x053F0000 0x00010000 0x00000000
default 0x05030000 0x00000000 0x00090000 0x00000000
RedBoot>

RedBoot> reset
. . .Resetting

e. Click Send.

10. When the RedBoot> prompt appears (after approximately one minute for the
Bootloader and approximately three minutes for SocketServer), type go.

Note: In a few seconds, the ethernet and PWR LEDs cycle through a light sequence

once and then upgrade is complete.

11. If you updated SocketServer: type, fis list and press Enter at the RedBoot> prompt.

Note: You should see file information for a file called default. If you do not see this file,

repeat the process starting with Step 6

.

12. Reset the DeviceMaster by typing reset at the RedBoot> prompt.

Note: In a few seconds the ethernet and PWR LEDs cycle through a light sequence

once and the update is complete.

13. Start your internet browser and enter the IP address of the DeviceMaster to verify
that the new version of SocketServer loads.

Telnet Method Use the following procedure to update the Bootloader or SocketServer with telnet to the

DeviceMaster.

Note: A TFTP server is required to perform firmware updates using Redboot.

1. Verify that you have the .bin file (Locating Software and Documentation

on Page 10).

2. Open a telnet session, type reset, and close the session.

80 - RedBoot Procedures DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

3. Open a new telnet session and enter the DeviceMaster IP address.

$ telnet 192.168.250.250
Trying 192.168.250.250...
Connected to 192.168.250.250.
Escape character is ‘^]’.

Default IP Address

Password:

*********************************************
**
** Comtrol DeviceMaster Bootloader Version 3.05
** RedBoot(tm) environment - built 08:13:02, Apr 4 2008
** Platform: Comtrol DeviceMaster (ARM 7TDMI)
** Portions Copyright (C) 2000. Red Hat, Inc.
** Portions Copyright (C) 2001-2008 Comtrol Corp.
*********************************************

FLASH: 64 blocks of 65536 bytes each
FLASH: 4194304 bytes (0x05000000 - 0x05400000)
RAM: 8126464 bytes (0x00000000 - 0x007c0000)
RedBoot>

RedBoot>dis
Loading disabled

RedBoot> load -r -b 0 -h 192.168.250.1 1800110.bin
CCCCRaw load done: 139521 bytes read
Address range: 00000000-00022100, Entry point: 00000000.
xyzModem - Cksum mode, 1091(SOH)/0(STX)/0(CAN) packets, 6 retries
RedBoot>

RedBoot>go

4. Enter the webserver password.

Note: Press the Enter key if you have not programmed a password.

Telnet Method

5. At the Redboot prompt: type dis and press Enter to disable the Bootloader.

6. Verify that the system responds with an Loading disabled message.

7. Load the file from a TFTP server using the following command and press the Enter

key:

load -r -b 0 -h <TFTP-Server_IP_Addr> <Downloaded_File_Name>
Note: The default IP address is: 192.168.250.250.

8. When the RedBoot> prompt appears (after approximately one minute if you are
uplo ad in g th e Bo ot loa der a nd a pp ro xi mately t hree minutes i f you ware uploading

SocketServer), type go.

If uploading Bootloader: In a few seconds the ethernet and PWR LEDs cycle through
a light sequence once and the update is complete.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B RedBoot Procedures - 81

Configuring Passwords

RedBoot> fis list
Name FLASH addr Mem addr Length Entry point
FIS_directory 0x053F0000 0x053F0000 0x00010000 0x00000000
default 0x05030000 0x00000000 0x00090000 0x00000000
RedBoot>

Password:
*********************************************
**
** Comtrol DeviceMaster Bootloader Version 3.05
** RedBoot(tm) environment - built 08:13:02, Apr 4 2008
** Platform: Comtrol DeviceMaster (ARM 7TDMI)
** Portions Copyright (C) 2000. Red Hat, Inc.
** Portions Copyright (C) 2001-2008 Comtrol Corp.
*********************************************

FLASH: 64 blocks of 65536 bytes each
FLASH: 4194304 bytes (0x05000000 - 0x05400000)
RAM: 8126464 bytes (0x00000000 - 0x007c0000)
RedBoot> dis

Loading disabled
RedBoot> password dev1357
Password ‘dev1357’
RedBoot>

Configuring Passwords

If uploading SocketServer:

a. At the RedBoot> prompt, type: fis list and press Enter.

Note: You should see file information for a file called default. If you do not see this

file, repeat the process starting with Step 7

.

b. Reset the DeviceMaster by typing reset at the RedBoot> prompt.

Note: In a few seconds the ethernet and PWR LEDs cycle through a light sequence

once.

c. Start your internet browser and enter the IP address of the DeviceMaster to

verify that the new version of SocketServer loads.

This section discusses how to configure a password for the web and telnet server.

Note: See the PortVision Plus or socket Help system for information about email

notification.

Use the following procedure to establish the DeviceMaster password for the Web and
telnet server. Establishing a password prevents unauthorized changes to the
DeviceMaster configuration.

1. Establish communications with the DeviceMaster using the serial (Page 79) or telnet
method (Page 76).

2. Type password [your_password] and press Enter.

Note: If you forget your password, you can reprogram the password using the serial

method which bypasses the password.

82 - RedBoot Procedures DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Note: The Bootloader version on your DeviceMaster may be different than the version

displayed in this graphic.

See the auth command in the Redboot Command Overview

up Web browser authentication.

on Page 83 if you want to set

Redboot Command Overview

The following table is an overview of Redboot commands available. You can access the

list of commands online by entering help and pressing the Enter key. For more detailed

information, see the eCos Reference Manual that is located on the Comtrol product CD or

download

auth
{noaccess, none, basic,

md5, invalid}

boardrev† Displays board revision.
cache [ON | OFF] Manages machine caches.
chassis Displays chassis information.
disable Disables automatic load of the default application.
dump -b <location> -l

<length>
fis {cmds}
go [-w <timeout>] [entry] Executes code at a location.

help <topic> Displays available Redboot commands.
ip {addr mask gateway} Displays or sets the IP address configuration.
load {-r} {-v} {-h <host>}

{-m {TFTP | xyzmodem}}
{-b <base_addr>}
<file_name>

loop 232|422|int port­number

mac† Displays ethernet MAC address.
model† Shows model number.
password {password} Sets the password.
reset Resets the DeviceMaster.
telnet [disable | enable} Sets or displays telnet server enable. Disables telnet.
teltimeout [seconds] Shows or sets telnet time-out.
terse Te rs e c om ma nd r es po n se m o de.
timeout {seconds} Displays or sets Bootloader time-out value.
t485 port #1 port #2 Runs port-to-port RS-485 test.
version Displays RedBoot version information.

† †Do not use these commands to change the values. Doing so may cause the DeviceMaster

to stop functioning.

Redboot Command Overview

it from the web.

RedBoot Commands

Sets or displays web authentication. The default is set to none,

which means that there is no authentication required to access
the web server.

To deny access to the web server, click noaccess or invalid. If

access is attempted, a message appears to notify the user that
access is denied.

To configure the web server to request an un-encrypted

password, click basic. To configure the web server to request
an encrypted password, click md5. (Some browsers do not
support the md5 command.)

Displays (hex dump) of a range of memory.

Manages flash images. See Chapter 2 of the eCos Reference

Manual for {cmds} information.

Loads a file from TFTP server or XModem.

Runs loopback test on port. The DeviceMaster Serial Hub does
not support this command.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B RedBoot Procedures - 83

Redboot Command Overview

84 - RedBoot Procedures DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Hardware Specifications

The following subsections contain specifications and safety notices for the DeviceMaster
family.

RoHS compliant products conform to EU Directive 2002/95/EC. These products do not
contain any restricted substances (lead, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, mercury, PBB,
and PBDE) except as specifically provided in the Directive.

Locating DeviceMaster Specifications

Specifications can be found on the Comtrol web site at:

•DeviceMaster AIR: http://www.comtrol.com/products/family/dmair

•DeviceMaster PRO: http://www.comtrol.com/products/family/dmpro

•DeviceMaster RTS VDC (1-port with 5-30VDC): http://www.comtrol.com/products/

family/dmrtsvdc

• DeviceMaster RTS (all other models): http://www.comtrol.com/products/family/

dmrts

• DeviceMaster Serial Hub: http://www.comtrol.com/products/family/dmsh

Serial Communications

This table provides DeviceMaster serial communications specifications.

Serial Communications

Interface standards (software

selectable)

Serial connector types:

DeviceMaster PRO:
8-Port
16-Port

DeviceMaster RTS

1-Port
1-Port Embedded System
2-port
4/8-Port models
16/32-Port models

DeviceMaster Serial Hub

Baud rate/port

Receive buffer
Transmit buffer

RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485

DB9 Male (includes DB9 to RJ45)
RJ45 Female

DB9 Male
Header, IDC10
Screw Terminal or DB9
DB9 (and DB9 to RJ45 adapter)
RJ45 Female

DB9 Male

300 to 230.4K bps
1024 bytes
256 bytes

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Specifications - 85

Serial Communications

Serial Communications

NS-Link control:

Data bits
Parity
Stop bits
Flow control

Network default values:

IP address
Subnet mask
Gate way

7 or 8
Odd, even, none
1 or 2
Hardware or software

192.168.250.250

255.255.0.0

192.168.250.1

TCP/IP and UDP Socket services,

Network protocols

B O O T P, T F T P, I C M P, A R P, S N M P ( M I B ­II), Telnet, HTTP, DHCP/RARP/Ping,
RFC 1006

Ev ent notifi ca tio n So ck et Serve r

SNMP support Monitoring only

86 - Hardware Specifications DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

External Power Supply Specifications

+VDC

Power Connector

Coaxial 5.5±0.1 x 2.1 mm

Earth Gnd

Return

Positive

5-30VDC

+

-

Wire gauge :

AWG 12-22

Screw Terminal Connector

(included with the 1-port

enclosed model)

This subsection discusses information that you may need if you wish to use your own
external power supplies.

• 1-Port 5VDC Power Supply

• 1-Port

• 2-Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88

• 2-Port (DB9) Power Supply on Page 88

• 4-Port Power Supply on Page 88

• 8-Port Power Supply on Page 88

• 16-Port Power Supplies on Page 89

5-30VDC Power Supply on Page 87

External Power Supply Specifications

(below)

1-Port 5VDC Power
Supply

1-Port 5-30VDC Power
Supply

This subsection only provides information for the
DeviceMaster 1-port 5VDC model.

Comtrol Power Supply: 1-Port 5VDC

Input line frequency
Input line voltage

Output voltage
Output current

47 - 63 Hz
90 - 132VAC (standard RTS)
90 - 260VAC (IAD model)
5VDC

2.4A @ 5VDC

The following table provides the specifications, if you intend on purchasing your own
external power supply.

External Power Supply: 1-Port 5VDC

Output voltage†
Current†
Power

5VDC
420 mA (Min) @ 5VDC

2.1 W

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage, power,

and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

This table provides specifications for the optional
power supply from Comtrol.

Comtrol Power Supply: 1-Port 5-30VDC

Input line frequency
Input line voltage
Output voltage
Output current

43-63 Hz
90-260 VAC
24VDC
500 mA @ 24VDC

This table provides the specifications, if you intend
on using your own power supply.

External Power Supply: 1-Port 5-30VDC

Output voltage†
Current†

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Specifications - 87

Power

† Any power supply that meets current consumption,

voltage, power, and connector pinouts requirements
can be used.

5-30VDC
100 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

2.5 W

2-Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply

+VDC

V Return - GND

Shield GND

Housing Molex P/N:
39-01-4030
Pins Molex P/N:
44485-1211

+VDC

V Return - GND

Shield GND

Housing Molex P/N:
39-01-4030
Pins Molex P/N:
44485-1211

2-Port (Serial
Terminals) Power

This table provides the specifications to purchase a power supply for a DeviceMaster 2­port 1E/2E model with serial terminal connectors..

Supply

External Power Supply: 2-Port

(Serial Terminal Conectors) 5-30VDC

Output voltage†
Current†
Power

5-30VDC
100 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

2.5 W

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage,

power, and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

2-Port (DB9) Power
Supply

This table provides the specifications to purchase a power supply for a DeviceMaster 2­port 1E/2E model with serial terminal connectors..

External Power Supply: 2-Port

(Serial Terminal Conectors) 6-30VDC

Output voltage†
Current†
Power

6-30VDC
100 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

2.5 W

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage,

power, and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

4-Port Power Supply This table provides the specifications for the power

supply shipped with the DeviceMaster 4-port.

Comtrol Power Supply: 4-Port

Input line frequency
Input line voltage
Output voltage
Output current

47 - 63 Hz
90 - 260 VAC
24VDC
500 mA @ 24VDC

This table provides the specifications, if you intend on
using your own power supply.

External Power Supply: 4-Port

Output voltage†
Current†
Power

9-30VDC
200 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

4.8 W

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage,

power, and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

8-Port Power Supply The following table provides the specifications for the

Comtrol-supplied power supply for the DeviceMaster
8-port.

Comtrol Power Supply: 8-Port

Input line frequency
Input line voltage
Output voltage
Output current

47 - 63 Hz
90 - 260 VAC
24VDC
500 mA @ 24VDC

88 - Hardware Specifications DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

16-Port Power Supplies

+VDC

V Return - GND

Shield GND

Housing Molex P/N:
39-01-4030
Pins Molex P/N:
44485-1211

The following table provides the specifications, if you intend on purchasing your own
power supply.

External Power Supply: 8-Port

16-Port Power
Supplies

Output voltage†
Current†
Power

9-30VDC
290 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

6.96 W

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage, power,

and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

The following table provides the specifications for the
Comtrol-supplied power supply for the DeviceMaster
16-port models.

Comtrol Power Supply: 16-Port Models

Input line frequency
Input line voltage
Output voltage
Output current

47 - 63 Hz
90 - 260 VAC
24VDC
500 mA @ 24VDC

Note: The DeviceMaster RTS 16-port and 32-

port models with a single Ethernet port
have internal power supplies.

The following tables provide the specifications, if you intend on purchasing your own
power supply for your DeviceMaster.

External Power Supply: 16-Port DeviceMaster PRO

Input line frequency
Input line voltage
Output voltage†
Output current†

47 - 63 Hz
90 - 260

VAC

9-30VDC
290 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage, power,

and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Specifications - 89

External Power Supply: 16-Port DeviceMaster RTS

Output voltage†
Current†
Power

9-30VDC
490 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

11.76 W

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage, power,

and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

External Power Supply: 16-Port DeviceMaster Serial Hub

Input line frequency
Input line voltage
Output voltage†
Output current†

47 - 63 Hz
90 - 260

VAC

9-30VDC
132 mA (Min) @ 24VDC

† Any power supply that meets current consumption, voltage, power,

and connector pinouts requirements can be used.

DeviceMaster Product Pictures

DeviceMaster Product Pictures

This subsections provides you with detailed pictures of the different DeviceMaster
models:

• 1-Port (DB9) 5VDC

• 1-Port (DB9) 5-30VDC on Page 91

• 1-Port Embedded on Page 92

• 2-Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88

• 4-Port (DB9) on Page 93

• 8-Port (DB9) on Page 93

• 16-Port (RJ45) External Power Supply on Page 94

• DeviceMaster Serial Hub 16-Port (DB9) on Page 94

• 16-Port (RJ45) Internal Power Supply on Page 94

• DeviceMaster PRO 16-Port (RJ45) on Page 94

• DeviceMaster RTS 32-Port (RJ45) on Page 94

See the appropriate discussion in the Hardware Installation section (Page 13) for
information about the LEDs.

on Page 90

1-Port (DB9) 5VDC This illustrates the DeviceMaster 1-Port 5VDC.

90 - Hardware Specifications DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

1-Port (DB9) 5-30VDC This illustrates the DeviceMaster 1-Port 5-30VDC.

Note: The supported input voltage (5VDC or 5-30VDC) is printed on the top and bottom of

the DeviceMaster.

1-Port (DB9) 5-30VDC

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Specifications - 91

1-Port Embedded

1 - Po rt Em b edde d This illustrates the DeviceMaster 1-port Embedded system that uses a

5-30VDC power supply. See 1-Port

5-30VDC Power Supply on Page 87 so that you can

provide a power supply for the DeviceMaster.

2-Port (Single Ethernet
Port) with Serial
Termin als

2-Port (Dual Ethernet
Ports) with Serial
Termin als

The DeviceMaster 2-port 1E with serial terminals uses a 5-30VDC power supply. See 2-

Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88 for information about the power supply.

The DeviceMaster 2-port 2E with serial terminals uses a 5-30VDC power supply. See 2-

Port (Serial Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88 for information about the power supply.

92 - Hardware Specifications DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

2-Port (Single Ethernet Port) DB9

2-Port (Single Ethernet
Port) DB9

2-Port (Dual Ethernet
Ports) DB9

The DeviceMaster 2-port 1E DB9 uses a 5-30VDC power supply. See 2-Port (Serial

Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88 for information about the power supply.

The DeviceMaster 2-port 2E DB9 uses a 5-30VDC power supply. See 2-Port (Serial

Terminals) Power Supply on Page 88 for information about the power supply.

4-Port (DB9) The PWR LED for the DeviceMaster 4 with DB9 ports is on the other side of the unit.

8-Port (DB9) The PWR LED for the DeviceMaster 8 with DB9 ports is on the other side of the unit.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Specifications - 93

16-Port (RJ45) External Power Supply

NEW GRAPHIC NEEDED

16-Port (RJ45)
External Power Supply

16-Port (RJ45) Internal
Power Supply

DeviceMaster PRO 16­Port (RJ45)

The PWR LED for this model is on the other side of the unit.

The power switch for this model is on the other side of the unit.

The power connector for this model is on the other side of the unit.

DeviceMaster Serial
Hub 16-Port (DB9)

DeviceMaster RTS 32­Port (RJ45)

The power switch for this model is on the other side of the unit.

The power switch for this model is on the other side of the unit.

94 - Hardware Specifications DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Notices

Warning

Notices

Radio Frequency
Interference (RFI) (FCC

15.105)

Labeling Requirements
(FCC 15.19)

Modifications (FCC

15.21)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class A digital
devices pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment do es c au se h ar mf ul
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This equipment complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by Comtrol
Corporation may void the user's authority to operate this equipment.

Serial Cables (FCC

15.27)

Underwriters
Laboratory

Important Safety
Information

This equipment is certified for Class A operation when used with unshielded cables on
models with the RJ45 connectors and with shielded cables on all models with DB9
connectors.

This equipment is Underwriters Laboratory “UL” listed.

To avoid contact with electrical current:

• Never install electrical wiring during an electrical storm.

• Never install the power plug in wet locations.

• Use a screwdriver and other tools with insulated handles.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Hardware Specifications - 95

Important Safety Information

96 - Hardware Specifications DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

Troubleshooting and Technical Support

This section contains troubleshooting information for your DeviceMaster. You should
review the following subsections before calling Technical Support because they will
request that you perform many of the procedures or verifications before they will be able
to help you diagnose a problem.

• Troubleshooting Checklist

• General Troubleshooting on Page 99

• Daisy-Chaining DeviceMaster 2E/4/8/16-Port Units on Page 101

If you cannot diagnose the problem, you can contact Technical Support on Page 102.

Troubleshooting Checklist

The following checklist may help you diagnose your problem:

• Verify that you are using the correct types of cables on the correct connectors and that

• Isolate the DeviceMaster from the network by connecting the device directly to a NIC

on Page 97

all cables are connected securely.

Note: Most customer problems reported to Comtrol Technical Support are eventually

traced to cabling or network problems.

in a host system.

Model Connected to

1-Port

1-Port Embedded

2-Port - 1E

2-Port - 2E (dual
Ethernet ports)

4/8-Port

16-Port (external
power supply)

16/32-Port (internal
power supply)

• Verify that the Ethernet hub and any other network devices between the system and
the DeviceMaster are powered up and operating.

• Reset the power on the DeviceMaster and watch the PWR or Status light activity.

PWR or Status LED Description

5 sec. off, 3 flashes, 5 sec. off, 3 flashes ... Redboot

5 sec. off, 4 flashes, 5 sec. off, 4 flashes ... SREC load failure.

Ethernet hub or
NIC

Ethernet hub or
NIC

Ethernet hub or
NIC

NIC or Ethernet
hub

NIC Standard DOWN

Ethernet hub Standard UP

NIC Standard DOWN

Ethernet hub Standard UP

Ethernet hub or
NIC

Ethernet

Cable

Standard 10/100 ETHERNET

Standard

Standard 10/100

Standard 10/100 - E1/E2

Standard 10/100 NETWORK

Connector Name

RJ45 port (not
labeled)

™ checksum failure.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Troubleshooting and Technical Support - 97

Troubleshooting Checklist

PWR or Status LED Description

5 quick flashes The default application is starting up.

10 sec. on, .1 sec. off, 10 sec. on .1 sec. off ... The default application is running.

• If the device has a power switch, turn the device’s power switch off and on, while
watching the LED diagnostics.

• If the DeviceMaster does not have a power switch, disconnect and reconnect the
power cord.

• Verify that the hardware MAC address in NS-Link matches the addre ss on the
DeviceMaster.

• Verify that the network IP address, subnet mask, and gateway is correct and
appropriate for the network. If IP addressing is being used, the system should be able
to pi n g th e D ev i c e Ma s te r .

• Verify that the IP address programmed into the DeviceMaster matches the unique
reserved IP configured address assigned by the system administrator.

•If using DHCP, the host system needs to provide the subnet mask and gateway.

• If using a driver for Windows, verify that you are addressing the port correctly. In
many applications, device names above COM9 require the prefix \\.\ in order to be

recognized. For example, to reference COM20, use \\.\COM20 as the file or port name.

• If using a driver for Windows, you can use one of the Comtrol tools, which are
discussed in the NS-Link User Guide.

- Device Advisor, which helps identify problems is a tab in the Advisor window of

the Windows driver.

- Test Terminal program, which can be used to troubleshoot communications on a

port-by-port basis.

- Port Monitor program, which checks for errors, modem control, and status

signals. In addition, it provides you with raw byte input and output counts.

• If using a driver for Windows hosts, enable the Verbose Event Log feature under the
Options tab and then reboot the system.

• Reboot the system and the DeviceMaster.

• Remove and reinstall NS-Link.

• If you have a spare DeviceMaster, try replacing the device.

98 - Troubleshooting and Technical Support DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B

General Troubleshooting

This table illustrates some genera l tr ou bles ho oti ng ti ps .

Note: Make sure that you have reviewed the Troubleshooting Checklist

General Condition Explanation/Action

Indicates that boot program has not downloaded to the
DeviceMaster.

1. Make sure that you have downloaded the most current
dri ver fro m: http://www.comtrol.com/support/

download.asp?partnumber=1800288.

PWR or Status LED

flashing

2. Install the driver and configure the device using the MAC
address. Make sure that you reboot the system.

Note: If the PWR or Status LED is still flashing, contact

Technical Support.

3. If you want to program an IP address into the
DeviceMaster, you can use the procedure outlined in the
NS-Link User Guide (Page 10).

4. Remove the NS-Link driver.

PWR or Status LED not lit

Indicates that power has not been applied or there is a
hardware failure. Contact Technical Support.

The NS-Link driver uses Port 4606 (11FE h) to communicate

with the DeviceMaster.

Can ping the Comtrol
device, but cannot open
the ports from a remote
loca tio n.

(You m ust ha ve p revious ly
programmed the IP
address, subnet mask, and
IP gateway.)

When using a “sniffer” to track NS-Link packets, filtering for
Port 4606 will easily track the packet. The packet should also
contain the MAC address of the device and the originating PC
so that it can be determined if the packet is able to travel the
full distance one way or not.

If the 4606 packet is found on one side of a firewall or router,
using sniffer, and not on the other side, then that port needs
to be opened up to allow the 4606 to pass.

This will most often be seen with firewalls, but is also seen in
some routers.

Cannot ping the device
through Ethernet hub

Cannot ping or connect to
the DeviceMaster

Isolate the DeviceMaster from the network. Connect the
device directly to the NIC in the host system (see Page 97).

The default IP address is often not accessible due to the

subnet masking from another network unless 192.168 is used

in the network.

In most cases, it will be necessary to program in an address
that conforms to your network.

If you do not use the NS-Link driver to program the IP
address, you only have 15 seconds to disable the Bootloader
with Redboot to get into the setup utility.

See RedBoot Procedures

on Page 75 for the Redboot method

of programming an IP address.

General Troubleshooting

on Page 97.

DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B Troubleshooting and Technical Support - 99

General Troubleshooting

General Condition Explanation/Action

DeviceMaster
continuously reboots
when connected to some
Ethernet switches

DeviceMaster
continuously reboots
when connected to some
Ethernet switches or
routers

The problem is caused by a L2 bridging feature called
Spanning Tree Algorithm (STA) in the Switch. This feature is
enabled by default in some switches. This features causes
time-out problems on certain L2 protocols, such as our MAC
mode.

Resolution: There will be no firmware fix for this problem.
Only one of the following fixes is required for resolution.

1. Disable STA in the switch.

2. Enable STA fast forwarding on the port.

3. Change the STA Forward Delay and Message Age to
minimum time values.

4. On the device, set the time-out value to 0 (to disable
loading of SocketServer) or 120. The command from the
redboot prompt is “Timeout 120” without the quotes.

Problem Details: STA by default blocks packets for 30 seconds
after an ethernet port auto negotiates. Blocking of these
packets causes the NS-Link driver load process to fail.

The normal NS-Link load process is:

1. If NS-Link determines that it needs to load a device, it
resets the device. It does this to get the device into
Redboot mode. Only Redboot accepts “load binary”
commands, which are needed to load the NS-Link binary
into the device.

2. After a 6 second delay, NS-Link sends an ID query to the
device. This query is to verify that the device is in
Redboot and can accept “load binary” commands.

3. The device sends an ID query response.

4. NS-Link loads the device.

If the device is not loaded after “timeout” seconds (default

15), it loads SocketServer.

The above process fails when STA is running because the
switch blocks packets for 30 seconds after the DeviceMaster
is rebooted. Therefore, the ID query is not received by the
DeviceMaster and after 15 seconds the device loads
SocketServer. After 30 seconds, NS-Link finally can do an ID
query, which reveals that the device is not in Redboot. NS­Link therefore reboots the device, and the process repeats.

Invalid IP information may also cause the switch or router to
check for a gateway address. Lack of a gateway address is a
common cause.

100 - Troubleshooting and Technical Support DeviceMaster Installation and Configuration Guide: 2000506 Rev. B