Comtrol RocketPort EXPRESS User Manual

User Guide

Trademark Notices

Comtrol and RocketPort are trademarks of Comtrol Corporation.

Windows and Microsoft are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

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

Fifth Edition (Rev E), July 18, 2014 Copyright
© 2007 - 2014. 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.

Document Number: 2000481 Rev. E

Table of Contents

Overview...................................................................................................................................5

Product Overview.......................................................................................................................................... 5

Before Installing the RocketPort EXPRESS ........................................................................................... 5

Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation .................................................................................. 5

Card and Interface Installation ..........................................................................................7

Installing the Card ........................................................................................................................................ 7

Attaching a Quad/Octacable Interface Cable ......................................................................................... 8

Attaching an Interface Box ......................................................................................................................... 8

Installing a Rackmount Interface Box ..................................................................................................... 9

Connecting Serial Devices .................................................................................................11

DTE Versus DCE .......................................................................................................................................... 11

DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs ................................................................................................. 11

DB9 Signals............................................................................................................................................... 12

DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) .......................................................................................................... 12

DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex) .................................................................... 12

DB9 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex) ........................................................... 13

DB9 Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................. 13

DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs ............................................................................................... 14

Fan-out Cable Signals .............................................................................................................................. 14

Interface Box Signals................................................................................................................................ 15

DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) ........................................................................................................ 15

DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex) .................................................................. 16

DB25 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex) ......................................................... 16

DB25M: Fan-out Cable Loopback Plugs.................................................................................................. 16

DB25F: Standard Interface Box............................................................................................................... 16

DB25M: Surge Interface Box Loopback Plugs ........................................................................................ 17

RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs................................................................................................ 17

RJ45 Signals ............................................................................................................................................. 17

RJ45 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232) ........................................................................................................... 18

RJ45 Null-Modem Cable (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex) .................................................................... 18

RJ45 Straight-Through Cable (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex) ........................................................... 18

RJ45 Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................ 18

RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs................................................................................................ 19

RJ11 Signals ............................................................................................................................................. 19

RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232) ........................................................................................................... 19

RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex) .................................................................... 19

RJ11 Straight-Through Cable (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex) ........................................................... 20

RJ11 Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................ 20

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Table of Contents - iii

Table of Contents

Specifications and Notices .................................................................................................21

68-Pin VHDCI Connector (Quad/Octacable).......................................................................................... 21

LFH60 and DB37M Multiplex Connectors DB9 and DB25 Interface Box Cable ........................... 23

FCC Notices................................................................................................................................................... 24

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) (FCC 15.105) .................................................................................24

Labeling Requirements (FCC 15.19) ....................................................................................................... 25

Modifications (FCC 15.21) ........................................................................................................................ 25

Serial Cables (FCC 15.27) ........................................................................................................................ 25

Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................27

Before Calling Technical Support ........................................................................................................... 27

RocketPort EXPRESS Diagnostics .......................................................................................................... 27

Troubleshooting Windows Systems......................................................................................................... 28

Test Terminal Explanation ...................................................................................................................... 29

Using Test Terminal to Test a Port ......................................................................................................... 29

Troubleshooting Linux Systems .............................................................................................................. 30

lcom(1) ....................................................................................................................................................... 30

File Transfer ............................................................................................................................................. 30

Changing Serial Port Settings (stty) ....................................................................................................... 30

Setting Up Terminals and Modems (mgetty, getty) ............................................................................... 30

Testing with minicom ............................................................................................................................... 31

Technical Support ....................................................................................................................................... 31

Index........................................................................................................................................33

iv - Table of Contents

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

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Overview

Product Overview

The RocketPort EXPRESS is a high-speed in-server serial expansion card that is
RS-232/422/485 software-selectable for use in a PCI-Express (PCIe) compatible
slot in a host system. The RocketPort EXPRESS was designed to support speeds
up to 921Kbps (if connected, using fan-out cables or the 4J/8J models) or

460.8Kbps (if using an interface box).

The RocketPort EXPRESS series uses Comtrol Application Specific Integrated
Circuit (ASIC) technology to replace most hardware functionality to minimize
components, including:

• The processor

• A serial controller

• Bus interface logic and other miscellaneous logic

You can install up to four RocketPort EXPRESS cards in one computer, providing a
maximum of 128 additional serial ports.

Before Installing the RocketPort EXPRESS

If you are planning on installing the RocketPort EXPRESS in a Windows system
make sure that you have located the device driver assembly to a location that is
available to the host system before installing the card in the host.

You can use the Software and Documentation CD to locate the latest device drivers
and documentation or use the files on the CD for your installation. Optionally, you
can use the links in the following table.

You may want to record the model and serial number of the RocketPort EXPRESS
before installing the card in the event you need to call technical support.

Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation

This table contains links the software and installation documentation. Optionally,
you can locate the latest device drivers, software, and installation documentation.

Software or

Document

Device drivers ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/rp_express_drivers.htm

Diagnostic and
Utilities

User Guides ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/rp_express_docs.htm

ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/rp_express_diag.htm

Location

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Overview - 5

Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation

6 - Overview

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Installing the Card

Caution

Card and Interface Installation

This section discusses the following:

• Installing the Card

• Attaching a Quad/Octacable Interface Cable on Page 8

• Attaching an Interface Box

• Installing a Rackmount Interface Box

Use the following procedure to install a RocketPort EXPRESS card.

1. Turn off the host computer

2.

Remove the system cover from your computer.

3. Select a PCI-Express (PCIe) compatible slot.

4. Remove the slot cover or release the clamp.

5. If necessary, replace the low-profile mounting bracket with the standard
mounting bracket shipped with the RocketPort EXPRESS.

6. Insert the card into the slot and seat it securely

7

. Reinstall the expansion slot retaining screw or clamp.

8. If this is not a 4J or 8J (RJ45/11 connector integrated in the card bracket),
attach the interface that came with
procedure:

• Attaching a Quad/Octacable Interface Cable

• Attaching an Interface Box

• Installing a Rackmount Interface Box

• If this is a 4J or 8J installation, see Connecting Serial Devices

for cabling information after driver installation.

on Page 8

on Page 9

.

.

your card using the appropriate

(below)

on Page 8

on Page 9

on Page 11

Do not connect an interface box to the card when the host system is
po

9. After connecting the interface (cable or box), replace the system cover on yo
computer

10. Power on your host system.

11. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message appears on a Wi
operating system.

Install the latest device driver for your operating system. See

12.

Latest Drivers and Documentation on Page 5 to locate the latest driver and

installation documentation.

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

wered on, this can cause card failure.

ur

.

ndows

Locating the

Card and Interface Installation - 7

Attaching a Quad/Octacable Interface Cable

Octacable

Quadcable

DB9

DB25

Caution

Caution

DB37

LFH60

Attaching a Quad/Octacable Interface Cable

Use this procedure to complete the quadcable or octacable installation.

1. Make sure that the host system is powered off before connecting the cable.

2. Attach the 68-pin end of the quadcable or octacable to the card.

Do not use force
co

nnecting the cables. Make
sure that the connectors are
properly aligned.

3. Tighten the retaining screws

4.

Power on the host system.

5. Click Cancel if a Foun
Hardware message
Windows operating system.

You are ready to install an

6.
configure
docu

the appropriate device driver. For the latest software an

mentation, go to Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation

5.

7. After installing the driver, you should verify that the ports are functionin
properly

(see the driver documentation) and then connect your serial devices.
If necessary, return to this guide for information
dev

ices (Connecting Serial Devices

when

d New

appears on

d

.

a

d

on Page

g

about connecting serial

on Page 11.)

Attaching an Interface Box

Use this procedure to complete the installation with an interface box.

Do not connect the cable to the RocketPort EXPRESS
card or interface box when the computer is powered
on.

Connecting the cable to the RocketPort EXPRESS
card or interface box while the computer is powered
on may damage the electronics on the card or
interface box.

1. Make sure that the host system is powered off befo
conn

2. Attach the LFH60 end of the interface cable to the
RocketPort EXPRESS card and the DB37 end to the
conne

Do not use force when connecting the cables. Make
sure that the connectors are properly aligned.

Note: The 32-port card uses a

3. Tighten the retaining screws.

4. Power on the host system.

5. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message
on a W

6.

You are ready to install and configure the appropriate device driver. For
latest software and documentation, go to Locating the Latest Drivers and

Documentation on Page 5.

ecting the cable.

ctor the interface box.

and 17-32 on

indows oper

the connectors.

ating system.

re

Y-cable that is labeled 1-16

appears

the

8 - Card and Interface Installation

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

7. After installing the driver, you should verify that the ports are functioning

Caution

Rx

Tx

Each port has transmit and receive LEDs.

properly (see the driver documentation) and then connect your serial devices.
If necessary, return to this guide for information about connecting serial
devices (Connecting Serial Devices

Installing a Rackmount Interface Box

Rackmount interface boxes are sturdy enough to allow you to stack several units
on a shelf, or you can mount it directly into a rack.

1. Make sure that the host system is powered off before connecting the cable.

2. Place the Rackmount
interface box on a stable
surface or attach the L
brackets to the interface box
using the screws supplied with the unit and attach the L bracket into your
rack.

Note: You can mount the unit

facing in either direction.

3. Attach the cable shipped with the
card between the interface box
and the card.

Do not connect 16-port cards located in various machines to the 32­port Rackmount. It is possible to damage the interface box and card if
the interface box is connected to two PCs using separate line power
sources.

4. Power on the host system.

If this is Windows operating system A Found New Hardware message starts
the driver installation for the RocketPort EXPRESS when you power on the
system.

5. Use the appropriate software installation document for your operating system,
with the driver to complete the RocketPort EXPRESS installation.

For the latest software and documentation, go to Locating the Latest Drivers

and Documentation on Page 5.

6. Verify that the ports are functioning properly and connect your serial devices.
For more information about connecting serial devices, see Connecting Serial

Devices on Page 11.

Installing a Rackmount Interface Box

on Page 11.)

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

The receive LED is lit if connected to an RS-232/422/485 device.

The transmit LED is illuminated when RS-232/422/485 data is being
transmitted. Noticeable flashing occurs only if transmit data starts and stops
a few times per second or less. Otherwise, if data is being transmitted
continuously, the LED illumination appears to be constant. If no data is
transmitted the LED is off.

Card and Interface Installation - 9

Installing a Rackmount Interface Box

10 - Card and Interface Installation

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

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DTE Versus DCE

Connecting Serial Devices

This section provides information about the RocketPort EXPRESS connectors, in
the event that you need to build cables or loopback plugs.

• DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

• DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

• RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

• RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

A loopback plug is a serial port plug with pins wired together that you can use
with application (for example, the diagnostic, Test Terminal, or minicom) to test
serial ports. See Before Calling Technical Support
about using the test application shipped with the RocketPort EXPRESS.

Most devices, except modems, are Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) devices.
Modems are Data Communication Equipment (DCE) devices. RocketPort
EXPRESS ports are configured as DTE.

How you build a cable depends on which device your are connecting to (DTE or
DCE). For example, you need a null-modem cable to connect the COM ports
(COM1 or COM2) on the computer or the RocketPort EXPRESS ports to printers,
terminals, bar code readers or DNC equipment. If you are connecting a DTE
device to a DCE device you need a straight-through modem cable.

• Straight-through cable (DTE to DCE) - connects TxD to TxD and RxD to RxD.

• Null-modem cable (DTE to DTE) - connects TxD to RxD and RxD to TxD.

on Page 11

on Page 14

on Page 17

on Page 19

on Page 27 for information

DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

The following figures and table illustrate the signals present on DB9 connectors if
you need to build your own null-modem or straight-through DB9 serial cables.

Quadcable, octacable, and the interface boxes use DB9 male connectors.

• DB9 Signals

• DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)

• DB9 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex)

• DB9 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex)

• DB9 Loopback Plugs

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

on Page 12

on Page 12

on Page 12

on Page 13

on Page 13

Connecting Serial Devices - 11

DB9 Signals

Pin 1

Pin 5

Pin 6

Pin 9

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

DB9

3
2

7

8
6

5

1
4

Pins

RI RI9229

RocketPort DTE Serial Device

TxD+
TxD-

RxD+

Signal

DB9

7
3

8

Pins

RxD+
RxD-

Signal

TxD+
TxD-

RxD- 2

RocketPort

DTE Serial

Device

DB9 Signals Refer to the manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help with the

connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

DB9 Male Connector Signals

DB9 Null-Modem

es (RS-232)

Cabl

Pin RS-232 RS-422

RS-485

(Full-Duplex)

RS-485

(Half-Duplex)

1 DCD Not used Not used Not used

2RxD RxD- RxD- Not used

3 TxD TxD- TxD- TRxD-

4 DTR Not used Not used Not used

5 Gnd Not used† Not used† Not used†

6 DSR Not used Not used Not used

7 RTS TxD+ TxD+ TRxD+

8 CTS RxD+ RxD+ Not used

9 RI Not used Not Used Not Used

† Pin 5 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used in the cable.

Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 null-modem cable. A null­modem cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

If you need RTS-CTS/DTR-DSR
hardware flow control, you can use
the pinouts provided in the
following example.

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.

Note: RJ45 connectors are not

standardized. Refer to your
serial device documentation
for signal information.

DB9 Null-Modem
Cabl

es (RS-422 or

RS-485 Full-Duplex)

Use the following figure if you need to build
an RS-422 or RS-485 full-duplex null-modem
cable. A null-modem cable is required for
connecting DTE devices.

Note: RS-422 and RS-45 signals are not

12 - Connecting Serial Devices

standardized and each serial
manufacturer uses different pinouts.
Refer to the serial device
documentation to determine the
pinouts for the signals above.

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

DB9 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex)

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

RI 9

9RI

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

5

6
4

Pins

22

RocketPort DCE Serial Device

Pin 1

Pin 5

Pin 6

Pin 9

RS-232/422 (Back View)

DB9 Straight­Through Cables (RS­232 or RS-485 Half­Duplex)

DB9 Loopback Plugs

Use the following figure if
you need to build an RS­232 or RS-485 half-duplex
straight-through cable.
Straight-through cables
are used to connect
modems and other DTE
devices. For example, a
straight-through cable can
be used to connect COM2
of one PC to a modem.

Note: RJ45 connectors are

not standardized.
Refer to your serial
device documentation for signal information.

RocketPort EXPRESS models with DB9 connectors on
the interface are shipped with a a single loopback plug
(RS-232/422).

Wire the following pins together to build additional
plugs or replace a missing RS-232/422 loopback plug.

• Pins 1 to 4 to 6

•Pins 2 to 3

• Pins 7 to 8 to 9

Wire these pins together if you want to build an RS-422 (only) loopback plug.

•Pins 2 to 3

•Pins 7 to 8

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Connecting Serial Devices - 13

DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

Pin 14 Pin 25

Pin 1 Pin 13

DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

This section describes DB25 cables and loopback plugs for the following models:

• Fan-out Cable Signals

nterface Box Signals

• I

• DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)

• DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex)

• DB25 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex)

• DB25M: Fan-out Cable Loopback Plugs

• DB25F: Standard Interface Box

• DB25M: Surge Interface Box Loopback Plugs

Note: Refer to the manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help

with connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

(quadcable and octacable)

on Page 15 (standard and surge models)

on Page 15

on Page 16

on Page 16

on Page 16

on Page 16

on Page 17

Fan-out Cable Signals

Refer to the manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help with the
connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

DB25 Male Connector Signals (Quad/Octacables)

Pin RS-232 RS-422

RS-485

(Full-Duplex)

RS-485

(Half-Duplex)

1 Not used Not used Not used Not used

2 TxD TxD- TxD- TRxD-

3 RxD RxD- RxD- Not used

4 RTS TxD+ TxD+ TRxD+

5 CTS RxD+ RxD+ Not used

6 DSR Not used Not used Not used

7 Gnd Not used† Not used† Not used†

8 DCD Not used Not used Not used

9 to 19 Not used Not used Not used Not used

20 DTR Not used Not used Not used

21 Not used Not used Not used Not used

22 RI Not used Not used Not used

23-25 Not used Not used Not used Not used

† Pin 7 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used in the cable.

14 - Connecting Serial Devices

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

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Interface Box Signals

Pin 14 Pin 25

Pin 1 Pin 13

Male

Pin 25 Pin 14

Pin 13 Pin 1

Fem ale

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

DB25

2
3

4

5
6

7

8
20

Pins

RI RI92222

RocketPort DTE Serial Device

* Interface boxes have alternate pins available for this

signal. Refer to Interface Box Signals for additional
information.

Interface Box
Signals

Refer to the manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help with the
connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

DB25 Female (Standard Interface Box)

DB 25 Male (Surge Interface Box)

Connector Signals

Pin RS-232 RS-422

RS-485

(Full-Duplex)

RS-485

(Half-Duplex)

1 Not used Not used Not used Not used

2 TxD TxD- TxD- TRxD-

3 RxD RxD- RxD- Not used

4 RTS TxD+ TxD+ TRxD+

5 CTS RxD+ RxD+ Not used

6 DSR Not used Not used Not used

7 Gnd Not used† Not used† Not used†

8 DCD Not used Not used Not used

15 CTS RxD+ RxD+ Not used

17 RxD RxD- RxD- Not used

19 RTS TxD+ TxD+ TRxD+

20 DTR Not used Not used Not used

21 Not used Not used Not used Not used

22 RI Not used Not used Not used

23-24 Not used Not used Not used Not used

25 TxD TxD- TxD- TRxD-

† Pin 7 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used in the cable.

DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)

Use the following figure if you
ne

ed to build an RS-232 null­modem cable. A null-modem
cable is required for
connecting DTE devices.

You may want to purchase or
build a straight-through cable
and purchase a null-modem
adapter. For example, a null­modem cable can be used to

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

connect COM2 of one PC to
COM2 of another PC.

Note: RJ45 connectors are not

standardized. Refer to
your serial device
documentation for
signal information.

Connecting Serial Devices - 15

DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex)

TxD+
TxD-

RxD+

Signal

DB25

4
2

5

Pins

RxD+
RxD-

Signal

TxD+
TxD-

RxD- 3

RocketPort

DTE Serial

Device

DB9

1
2
3
4
5

8

6
7

Pins

DCD
RxD
TxD or TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS or TRxD+

Signal

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

5

6
4

Pins

DCD
RxD*
TxD* or TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS*

DSR
RTS* or TRxD+

Signal

RI 22

9RI

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

5

6
4

Pins

22

RocketPort DCE Serial Device

* Interface boxes have alternate pins available for this signal.

Refer to Interface Box Signals for more information.

Pin 13Pin 1

RS-232/422 (Back View)

Pin 14

Pin 25

Male

Pin 13 Pin 1

RS-232/422 (Back View)

Pin 14

Pin 25

Female

DB25 Null-Modem
Cables (RS-422 or
RS-485 Full-Duplex)

DB25 Straight­Through Cables (RS­232 or RS-485 Half­Duplex)

Use the following figure if you need to build an
RS-422 or RS-485 full-duplex null-modem
cable. A null-modem cable is required for
connecting DTE devices.

Interface boxes have optional pins available
for these signals. Refer to Interface Box

Signals on Page 15 for more information.

Note: RS-422 and RS-485 signals are not

standardized and each serial
manufacturer uses different pinouts. Refer to the serial device
documentation to determine the pinouts for the signals above.

Use the following figure
if you need to build an
RS-232 or RS-485 half­duplex straight-through
cable. Straight-through
cables are used to
connect modems and
other DTE devices. For
example, a straight­through cable can be
used to connect COM2
of one PC to a modem.

DB25M: Fan-out

e Loopback

Cabl
Plugs

RocketPort EXPRESS models with DB25 male connectors on the interface are
shipped with a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

Wire the following pins together to build additional
RS-232/422 plugs or replace a missing RS-232/422
loopback plug.

•Pins 2 to 3

• Pins 4 to 5 to 22

• Pins 6 to 8 to 20

You can wire the following pins together for an RS-422 only loopback plug.

•Pins 2 to 3

•Pins 4 to 5

DB25F: Standard
Int

erface Box

RocketPort EXPRESS models with DB25 female connectors on the interface box
are shipped with a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

Wire the following pins together to build additional
RS-232/422 plugs or replace a missing RS-232/422
loopback plug.

• Pins 2 to 3 or alternately, Pins 25 to 17

• Pins 4 to 5 to 22 or alternately, Pins 19 to 15 to 22

16 - Connecting Serial Devices

• Pins 6 to 8 to 20

You can wire the following pins together for an RS-422 only loopback plug.

• Pins 2 to 3 or alternately, Pins 17 to 25

• Pins 4 to 5 or alternately, Pins 15 to 19

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

DB25M: Surge Interface Box Loopback Plugs

Pin 13Pin 1

RS-232/422 (Back View)

Pin 14

Pin 25

DB25M: Surge
Interface Box
Loopback Plugs

RocketPort EXPRESS models with DB25 male connectors on the Surge interface
box are shipped with a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

Wire the following pins together to build additional
RS-232/422 plugs or replace a missing RS-232/422
loopback plug.

• Pins 2 to 3 or alternately, Pins 17 to 25

• Pins 4 to 5 to 22 or alternately, Pins 15 to 19 to 22

• Pins 6 to 8 to 20

You can wire the following pins together for an RS-422 only loopback plug.

• Pins 2 to 3 or alternately, Pins 17 to 25

• Pins 4 to 5 or alternately, Pins 15 to 19

RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

This section describes RJ45 cables and loopback plugs for the RocketPort
EXPRESS 4J, Octacable and Rackmount interface boxes.

• RJ45 Signals

• RJ45 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232) on Page 18

• RJ45 Null-Modem Cable (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex)

• RJ45 Straight-Through Cable (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex)

• RJ45 Loopback Plugs

on Page 18

on Page 18

on Page 18

RJ45 Signals There are no standards for RJ45 connector pinouts. Refer to the

manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help with
connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

Note: Ring indicator is not supported on the RJ45 connector.

RJ45 Connector Signals

Pin RS-232 RS-422

RS-485

(Full-Duplex)

RS-485

(Half-Duplex)

1 RTS TxD+ TxD+ TRxD+

2 DTR Not Used Not Used Not Used

3 Gnd Not Used† Not Used† Not Used†

4 TxD TxD- TxD- TRxD-

5 RxD RxD- RxD- Not Used

6 DCD Not Used Not Used Not Used

7 DSR Not Used Not Used Not Used

8 CTS RxD+ RxD+ Not Used

† Pin 3 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used in the cable.

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Connecting Serial Devices - 17

RJ45 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232)

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

RocketPort DTE Serial Device

TxD+
TxD­RxD+

Signal

RJ45

1
4
8

Pins

RxD+
RxD-

Signal

RxD- 5

TxD+
TxD-

DTE Serial

Device

RocketPort

DB9

1
2
3
4
5

8

6
7

Pins

DCD
RxD
TxD TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS TRxD+

Signal

DCD
RxD
TxD TRxD­DTR
GND

CTS

DSR
RTS TRxD+

Signal

RI

9

RJ45

6
5
4
2
3

8

7
1

Pins

N/A

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

5

6
4

Pins

22

RI

RocketPort

DCE Serial Device

RS-232 RS-485HD RS-232 RS-485HD

RS-232/422

RJ45 Null-Modem
Cable (RS-232)

RJ45 Null-Modem

e (RS-422 or RS-

Cabl
485 Full-Duplex)

RJ45 Straight­T

hrough Cable (RS­232 or RS-485 Half­Duplex)

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.

Use the following figure if you need to build
an RS-422 null-modem cable. A null-modem
cable is required for connecting DTE
devices.

Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized.

Each serial manufacturer uses
various pinouts. Please refer to the
documentation for the serial to
determine the pinouts for the signals in the previous picture.

Use straight-through cables to connect modems and other DTE devices. For
example, you can connect one end of a straight-through cable to COM2 on one
computer and the other end of the straight-through cable to a modem.

RJ45 Loopback
Plug

s

RocketPort EXPRESS models with RJ45 connectors are shipped with
a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

Wire the following pins together to build additional loopback plugs or
replace a missing RS-232/422 loopback plug:

•Pins 4 to 5

•Pins 1 to 8

•Pins 2 to 6 to 7

Wire the following pins together for an RS-422 loopback plug:

•Pins 4 to 5

18 - Connecting Serial Devices

•Pins 1 to 8

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

TxD
RxD

Signal

RxD
TxD
RTS

Signal

DB25

3
2

Pins

RJ11

3
4

Pins

4

RocketPort

DTE Serial Device

DB9

2
3
7

Pins

CTS

6

DCD

DTR

DCD
DTR

20

5

1

8

1
14

GND

GND

7

2

5

RS-232

TxD+
TxD­RxD+

Signal

RJ11

1
3
6

Pins

RxD+
RxD-

Signal

RxD- 4

TxD+
TxD-

DTE Serial

Device

RocketPort

RS-422/RS-485FD

RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs

This section describes RJ11 cables and loopback plugs for the RocketPort
EXPRESS 8J.

• RJ11 Signals

• RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232) on Page 19

• RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-422 or RS-485 Full-Duplex)

• RJ11 Straight-Through Cable (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex)

• RJ11 Loopback Plugs

on Page 20

RJ11 Signals There are no standards for RJ11 connector pinouts. Refer to the

manufacturer’s installation documentation if you need help with
connector pinouts or cabling for the serial device.

Note: Ring indicator, Request to Send, and Data Set Ready are not

supported on the RJ11 connector.

RJ11 Connector Signals

Pin RS-232 RS-422

RS-485

(Full-Duplex)

(Half-Duplex)

1 DTR TxD+ TxD+ TRxD+

2 Gnd Not Used† Not Used† Not Used†

3 TxD TxD- TxD- TRxD-

4 RxD RxD- RxD- Not Used

5 DCD Not Used Not Used Not Used

6 CTS RxD+ RxD+ Not Used

† Pin 2 is tied to ground on the board, but is not used in the cable.

on Page 19

RS-485

on Page 20

RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232)

RJ11 Null-Modem
C

able (RS-422 or RS­485 Full-Duplex)

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Use the following figure if
to build an RS-232 null-modem
cable. A null-modem cable is
required for connecting DTE devices.

Use the following figure if you need to build
an RS-422 null-modem cable. A null-modem
cable is required for connecting DTE devices.

Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized.

you need

Each serial manufacturer uses
various pinouts. Please refer to the
documentation for the serial to
determine the pinouts for the signals
in the previous picture.

Connecting Serial Devices - 19

RJ11 Straight-Through Cable (RS-232 or RS-485 Half-Duplex)

DTR TRxD+

1

DCD
RxD
TxD TRxD­DTR TRxD+
GND

Signal

DCD
RxD
TxD TRxD-

GND

Signal

RJ11

5
4
3

2

Pins

DB25

8
3
2
20
7

Pins

RocketPort

DCE Serial Device

DB9

1
2
3
4
5

Pins

CTS

CTS

6

5

8

RS-232 RS-485HD

RS-232 RS-485HD

RJ11 Straight­Through Cable (RS­232 or RS-485 Half­Duplex)

RJ11 Loopback

s

Plug

Use straight-through cables to connect modems and other DTE devices. For
example, you can connect one end of a straight-through cable to COM2 on one
computer and the other end of the straight-through cable to a modem.

RocketPort EXPRESS models with RJ11 connectors are shipped with
a a single loopback plug (RS-232/422).

Wire the following pins together to build additional loopback plugs or
replace a missing RS-232/422 loopback plug:

•Pins 3 to 4

•Pins 1 to 6

20 - Connecting Serial Devices

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Specifications and Notices

34

This section discusses the following:

• 68-Pin VHDCI Connector

• LFH60 and DB37M Multiplex Connectors DB9
age 23

on P

• FCC Notices

68-Pin VHDCI Connector (Quad/Octacable)

Use the following table if you need to build a cable for a proprietary serial device.

on Page 24

(Quad/Octacable) on Page 21

and DB25 Interface Box Cable

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Pin RS-232 RS-422 RS-485 FD RS-485 HD

1 TXD1 TXD-1 TXD-1 TRXD-1

2RI1

3DCD1

4DTR1

5 RTS1 TXD+1 TXD+1 TRXD+1

6DSR1

7RXD1RXD-1RXD-1

8CTS1RXD+1RXD+1

9 TXD2 TXD-2 TXD-2 TRXD-2

10 RI2

11 DCD2

12 DTR2

13 RTS2 TXD+2 TXD+2 TRXD+2

14 DSR2

Specifications and Notices - 21

68-Pin VHDCI Connector (Quad/Octacable)

Pin RS-232 RS-422 RS-485 FD RS-485 HD

15 RXD2 RXD-2 RXD-2

16 CTS2 RXD+2 RXD+2

17 RJ45

18 GND

19 TXD3 TXD-3 TXD-3 TRXD-3

20 RI3

21 DCD3

22 DTR3

23 RTS3 TXD+3 TXD+3 TRXD+3

24 DSR3

25 RXD3 RXD-3 RXD-3

26 CTS3 RXD+3 RXD+3

27 TXD4 TXD-4 TXD-4 TRXD-4

28 RI4

29 DCD4

30 DTR4

31 RTS4 TXD+4 TXD+4 TRXD+4

32 DSR4

33 RXD4 RXD-4 RXD-4

34 CTS4 RXD+4 RXD+4

35 TXD5 TXD-5 TXD-5 TRXD-5

36 RI25

37 DCD5

38 DTR5

39 RTS5 TXD+5 TXD+5 TRXD+5

40 DSR5

41 RXD5 RXD-5 RXD-5

42 CTS5 RXD+5 RXD+5

43 TXD6 TXD-6 TXD-6 TRXD-6

44 RI6

45 DCD6

46 DTR6

47 RTS6 TXD+6 TXD+6 TRXD+6

48 DSR6

49 RXD6 RXD-6 RXD-6

50 CTS6 RXD+6 RXD+6

51 GND

52 4-Port

53 TXD7 TXD-7 TXD-7 TRXD-7

54 RI7

55 DCD7

56 DTR7

57 RTS7 TXD+7 TXD+7 TRXD+7

58 DSR7

22 - Specifications and Notices

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

LFH60 and DB37M Multiplex Connectors DB9 and DB25 Interface Box Cable

Pin RS-232 RS-422 RS-485 FD RS-485 HD

59 RXD7 RXD-7 RXD-7

60 CTS7 RXD+7 RXD+7

61 TXD8 TXD-8 TXD-8 TRXD-8

62 RI8

63 DCD8

64 DTR8

65 RTS8 TXD+8 TXD+8 TRXD+8

66 DSR8

67 RXD8 RXD-8 RXD-8

68 CTS8 RXD+8 RXD+8

LFH60 and DB37M Multiplex Connectors DB9 and DB25 Interface Box Cable

Use the following table if you
need to build an interface cable.

Ports 1-16 Ports 17-32

DB37-1
Source

J1-1 N/C J3-1 N/C

J1-2 J2-44 GND J3-2 N/C GND

J1-3 J2-43 GND J3-3 J2-37 GND

J1-4 J2-42 GND J3-4 J2-36 GND

J1-5 J2-41 GND J3-5 J2-35 GND

J1-6 J2-23 RESET J3-6 J2-8 RESET

J1-7 J2-46 1A RXCLK+ J3-7 J2-24 1A RXCLK+

J1-8 J2-16 2A RXDATA+ J3-8 J2-25 2A RXDATA+

J1-9 J2-17 3A RXDATB+ J3-9 J2-26 3A RXDATB+

J1-10 J2-18 4A RXCNVT+ J3-10 J2-27 4A RXCNVT+

J1-11 N/C J3-11 N/C

J1-12 J2-19 5A TXDATB- J3-12 J2-28 5A TXDATB-

J1-13 J2-20 6A TXDATA- J3-13 J2-29 6A TXDATA-

J1-14 J2-21 7A TXCLK- J3-14 J2-30 7A TXCLK-

J1-15 J2-22 8A TXCNVT- J3-15 J2-31 8A TXCNVT-

J1-16 J2-47 V+ J3-16 J2-54 V+

LFH60

Dest

Pair Signal

DB37-2
Source

LFH60

Dest

Pair S ignal

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Specifications and Notices - 23

FCC Notices

Ports 1-16 (Continued) Ports 17-32 (Continued)

DB37-1
Source

J1-17 J2-48 V+ J3-17 J2-55 V+

J1-18 J2-49 V+ J3-18 J2-56 V+

J1-19 J2-50 V+ J3-19 N/C

J1-20 N/C J3-20 N/C

J1-21 N/C J3-21 N/C

J1-22 J2-40 GND J3-22 J2-34 GND

J1-23 J2-39 GND J3-23 J2-33 GND

J1-24 J2-39 GND J3-24 J2-32 GND

J1-25 J2-45 1B RXCLK- J3-25 J2-7 1B RXCLK-

J1-26 J2-15 2B RXDATA- J3-26 J2-6 2B RXDATA-

J1-27 J2-14 3B RXDATB- J3-27 J2-5 3B RXDATB-

J1-28 J2-13 4B RXCNVT- J3-28 J2-4 4B RXCNVT-

J1-29 N/C J3-29 N/C

J1-30 J2-12 5B TXDATB+ J3-30 J2-3 5B TXDATB+

J1-31 J2-11 6B TXDATA+ J3-31 J2-2 6B TXDATA+

J1-32 J2-10 7B TXCLK+ J3-32 J2-1 7B TXCLK+

J1-33 J2-9 8B TXCNVT+ J3-33 J2-60 8B TXCNVT+

J1-34 J2-51 V+ J3-34 J2-57 V+

J1-35 J2-52 V+ J3-35 J2-58 V+

J1-36 J2-53 V+ J3-36 J2-59 V+

J1-37 N/C J3-37 N/C

LFH60

Dest

Pair Signal

DB37-2
Source

LFH60

Dest

Pair Signal

FCC Notices

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) (FCC 15.105)

The RocketPort EXPRESS has been tested and found to comply with the limits for

B digital devices pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules when connected to:

Class

• Quad/octacable interface

• Standard or surge interface boxes (4/8/16/32-port models)

The RocketPort EXPRESS has been tested and found to comply with the limits for
Class

A digital devices pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules when connected to 16

or 32-port Rackmount interface boxes.

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 does
cause harmful 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 distance between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment to 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.

24 - Specifications and Notices

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Labeling Requirements (FCC 15.19)

Labeling
Requirements (FCC

15.19)

Modifications (FCC
15

.21)

Serial Cables (FCC
15

.27)

This equipment complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received, including

ma

y cause undesired operation.

interference that

Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by Comtrol
Corporation may void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Depending on the interface box, this equipment is certified for Class B operation
when used with shielded cables.

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Specifications and Notices - 25

Serial Cables (FCC 15.27)

26 - Specifications and Notices

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Troubleshooting

If you are experiencing problems with the RocketPort EXPRESS, review the
troubleshooting procedures for your system before calling Technical Support.

Before Calling Technical Support

Review the following information 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.

• Verify the cabling using Connecting Serial Devices

te: Most customer problems reported to Comtrol Technic

No

• If you have not done so, run the diagnostics (RocketPort EXPRE

Diagnostics on Page 27).

• Verify that you have installed the latest RocketPort EXPRESS device driver,

see Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation

If necessary, remove or update the existing driver using the procedures in the
RocketPort EXPRESS Device Driver Installation Guide for Windows or
README file packaged with the FreeBSD, Linux, QNX, or SCO OpenServer
driver.

If none of the above work, you can refer to one of these subsections:

• Troubleshooting Windows Systems

• Troubleshooting Linux Systems

eventually traced

on Page 11.

al Support are

to cabling or network problems.

SS

on Page 5.

on Page 28

on Page 30

RocketPort EXPRESS Diagnostics

This subsection describes how to run the bootable diagnostic CD to verify that the
RocketPort EXPRESS hardware is functioning properly. The RocketPort
EXPRESS is shipped with a bootable CD that executes hardware diagnostics.

In the event that you cannot locate the CD, you can download
and burn the .iso image to a CD-ROM.

You can use the diagnostic to:

• Confirm that the hardware is functioning

• Determine resolutions to conflicts during installation

• Perform a stress test on all RocketPort EXPRESS ports in the system

The diagnostic requires a loopback plug to test a port or ports. A single loopback
plug is shipped with the RocketPort EXPRESS. You can build additional loopback
plugs or move the loopback plug to the port you want to test. See Connecting

Serial Devices on Page 11 if you want to build loopback plugs.

Use the following procedure to run the diagnostics.

1. Insert the bootable CD that contains the diagnostic and restart your machine.

The diagnostic starts automatically and takes a few minutes before the first
screen appears.

2. Press Enter at the disclaimer screen to begin the diagnostic.

the latest version

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Troubleshooting - 27

Troubleshooting Windows Systems

3. Enter 1 to 4 to test a port or ports on a specific RocketPort EXPRESS, or sele

To end the diagnostic, you may need to select b to return to a screen that contains
a q to quit. Type reboot, select Enter, and remove the CD from the drive when
prompted.

If the diagnostics did not detect a hardware problem, you may have a device driver
problem. See Before Calling Technical Support

If the diagnostics could not find the card:

• Check for proper cable connections between the card and interface. Ve

• Verify that the loopback plug is firmly connected.

• Turn off the power and reseat the RocketPort EXPRESS card into the slot.

• Try running the diagnostics again. If they fail again, you may have a bad

Note: If the diagnostic goes into sleep mode while unattended, press the Num

Lock key to activate the screen.

ct

run the stress test on all RocketPort EXPRESS cards installed in the

S to
system.

Note: The stress test requires a loopback plug for each port on each card.

Use Ctrl/Alt Delete to kill the diagnostic process at any time.

Testing a Port or Ports

Enter A to test all ports on the RocketPort EXPRESS or enter the port number
of a port that you want to test and follow the instructions on the screen. If you
are testing all of the ports and have only one loopback plug, you must move it
from port to port during the test.

Stress Testing the RocketPort EXPRESS

The stress test uses a default configuration to simultaneously stream data to
all ports of the RocketPort EXPRESS cards in a system until you stop the test.
To stop the test and review the results of the stress test, enter S.

on Page 27 for more information.

rify your

cables using Connecting Serial

Devices

on Page 11.

port,

act Technical Support

cont

on Page 31.

Troubleshooting Windows Systems

If you are using a RocketPort EXPRESS driver on a Windows system and the
diagnostic verified that the card is functional, you can check the following:

1. Verify that the RocketPort EXPRESS has installed by checking the

Manager

2. 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

3. After driver installation, if a port does not open; go to Ports COM & LPT, right-

click on the yellow exclamation mark on the port, and click Update Driver. Use
the same procedure used when installing the ports that are detected with plug
and play systems.

4. Enable the Verbose Event Log feature on the Options tab of the RocketPort

EXPRESS driver and then reboot the server.

5. Install and use one of the tools in the Comtrol Utility package. The Comtro

Uti

dow

automatically starts the installation procedure. It is not necessary to reboot
the

to verify that the RocketPort EXPRESS card displays.

file or port name.RocketPort EXPRESS.

lity is available on the Software and Documentation CD

nload

the latest version. The file is a self-extracting zip file that

PC after installation.

Device

l

or you can

28 - Troubleshooting

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Test Terminal Explanation

The Comtrol Utility package includes the following applications that you can
access from the Comtrol Program group:

• Test Terminal can be used to troubleshoot communicati
asis. Test Terminal requires a loopback plug. You can build a loopback

b

ons on a port-by-port

plug if you are missing the loopback plug shipped with the RocketPort
EXPRESS (Connecting Serial Devices

• Port Monitor checks for errors, modem control, and

ad

dition, it provides you with raw byte input and output counts.

on Page 11).

status signals. In

Use the following procedures to run Te s t Ter mi na l tests.

Test Terminal
Explanation

Using Test Terminal
to T

est a Port

This subsection provides background information about the two tests procedures
in the following subsection.

• Send and Receive Test Data: This sends data out the transmit line to
l

oopback plug, which has the transmit and receive pins connected thus

the

sending the data back through the Rx line to Test Terminal, which then
displays the received data in the terminal window for that port. This test is
only testing the Tx and Rx signal lines and nothing else. This test works in
either RS-232 or RS-422 modes as both modes have transmit and receive
capability. A failure in this test will essentially prevent the port from working
in any manner.

• Loopback Test: This tests all of the modem control signals such as RTS, DTR,
CTS, DSR, DCD, and RI along with the Tx and Rx signals. When a signal is
made HI in one line the corresponding signal line indicates this. The Loopback
Te st changes the state of the lines and looks for the corresponding state
change. If it successfully recognizes all of these changes, the port passes.

A failure on this test is not necessarily critical as it will depend on what is
connected and how many signal lines are in use. For example, if you are using
RS-232 in 3-wire mode (Transmit, Receive and Ground) a failure will cause no
discernible issue since the other signals are not being used. If the port is
configured for use as either RS-422 or RS-485 this test will fail and is expected
to fail since RS-422 and RS-485 do not have the modem control signals that
are present in RS-232 for which this test is designed.

The following procedure shows how to use Test Terminal to send and receive test
data to the serial ports and run a loopback test.

1. Stop all applications that may be accessing the ports such as RAS, RRAS, or
any faxing or production software. See the appropriate help systems or
manuals for instructions on stopping these services or applications. If another
application is controlling the port, then Tes t Te r m in a l will be unable to open the
port and an error message will be shown.

Note: Remember to restart the application once testing of the ports has been

completed.

2. From the Start menu, select Programs > Comtrol > Utilities > Test T

COM2).

(W

erminal

3. Select File > Open Port and the appropriate port (or ports) from the Open Ports
drop list.

4. Install the loopback plug onto the port (or ports) that you want to test.

5. Select Port > Send and Receive Test Data.

You should see the alphabet scrolling across the port. If so, then the po

stalled properly and is operational. Select Port > Send and Receive Test Data

in
stop th

e scrolling data.

rt

to

6. Select Port > Loopback Test.

This is a pass fail test and will take a second or two to complete

h port that needs testing.

eac

. Repeat for

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Troubleshooting - 29

Troubleshooting Linux Systems

The loopback test test the modem control (hardware handshaking) signals. It
only has meaning in RS-232 mode on serial connector interfaces with full RS­232 signals. If performed under the following conditions, the test will always
fail because full modem control signals are not present:

•RS-422

•RS-485

• RJ11 connectors

7. Close Tes t Te rm in al

If both of these tests successfully complete, then the port is operational as
expected.

Note: Do forget to restart the application.

Troubleshooting Linux Systems

You can use the following subsections to test the serial ports.

lcom(1)

Comtrol has available lcom(1), which is a multiport serial I/O test program. You
can use lcom in test mode to send test data to any serial port.

lcom is available on the Software and Documentation CD or you can download

the

latest version.

Note: For assistance using lcom, use the manual page, lcom(1) that accompanies

the program.

File Transfer You can transfer a file using the following information. The default settings are

9600, 8, n, 1, and no parity. To send a file you can redirect output to a device; for
example:

cat /etc/inittab > /dev/ttyRP0

Sends the contents of the /etc/inittab file to the ttyRP0 device at 9600 baud, 8, n, 1,
and no parity.

Changing Serial
P

ort Settings (stty)

Use the following information if you need assistance changing or viewing the baud
rate settings.

To change the baud rate, use the following example, which changes the baud rate
to 19200:

stty 19200 </dev/ttyRP0

To view the current serial port settings for ttyRP0, enter:

stty -a </dev/ttyRP0

Note: Settings changes via stty are only valid during current log in session. For

permanent setting changes, use the /etc/inittab file.

Setting Up
T

erminals and
Modems (mgetty,
getty)

30 - Troubleshooting

Add the appropriate line or lines to the /etc/inittab file then restart.

Terminal Example:

T0:23:respawn:/sbin/agetty -L ttyRP0 57600 vt100

Modem Example:

T1:23:respawn:+/sbin/mgetty -m ‘”” AT&F OK’ -D -x9 -s 115200 ttyRP0

Note: If necessary, see the manual pages for more information on mgetty.

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Testing with minicom

Testing with
minicom

Technical Support

You can also use minicom, which shipped with most Linux distributions, to test the
serial ports. A Comtrol document is available for using minicom

.

Comtrol has a staff of support technicians available to help you. You should review

Before Calling Technical Support on Page 27 before calling Technical Support. If

you call for Technical Support, please have the following information available:

• Model number

• Serial number

• Interface type

• Operating system type, release, and service package, and if Linux, the kernel
version

• Device driver version

• Computer make, model, speed, and single or dual processor

• List other devices in the computer and their addresses

Contact Method Corporate Headquarters

Support http://www.comtrol.com/pub/en/Support

Device drivers ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/rp_express_drivers.htm

Diagnostic and Utilities ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/rp_express_diag.htm

User Guides ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/rp_express_docs.htm

Web site http://www.comtrol.com

Phone [phone]

Downloads ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/default.htm

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Troubleshooting - 31

Technical Support

32 - Troubleshooting

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Re

v. E

Index

A

attach

interface 8
serial devices 11

B

bootable diagnostic

using 27

C

card

installation 7
troubleshooting 27

Comtrol

contact information 31

connect

serial devices 11

connector

68-pin VHDCI 21
DB25F

standard interface box 15

DB25M

fan-out cable 14
surge interface box 15

DB9 12
RJ11 19
RJ45 17

D

DB25

null-modem cables 15
straight-through cables 16

DB25F standard interface box

connector signals 15
loopback plugs 16

DB25M fan-out cable

connector signals 14
loopback plugs 16

DB25M surge interface box

connector signals 15
loopback plugs 17

DB9

loopback plugs 13
null-modem cables 12
signals 12
straight-through cables 13

device drivers

download 5

devices

connect serial 11

diagnostics

using 27

documentation

download 5

download

drivers 5

Downloads 31
drivers

download 5

DTE Versus DCE 11

F

FCC notices 24
full-duplex

DB25M fan-out cable signals 14
DB25M surge interface box signals 15
DB9 signals 12
RJ11 signals 19
RJ45 signals 17

H

half-duplex

DB25M fan-out cable signals 14
DB25M surge interface box signals 15
DB9 signals 12
RJ11 19
RJ45 signals 17

I

installation

before 5
card 7
download documents 5
interface box 8
octacable 8
quadcable 8
troubleshooting 27

interface

quad/octacable installation 8

interface box

DB9 connectors 11
installation 8
Rackmount installation 9

L

lcom

Linux test application 30

LEDs

Rackmount interface box 9

Linux

minicom

test serial ports 31

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Index - 33

loopback plugs

DB25F standard interface box 16
DB25M fan-out cable 16
DB25M surge interface box 17
DB9 13
definition 11
RJ11 20
RJ45 18

low-profile bracket 7

N

null-modem cables

DB25 15
DB9 12
RJ11 19
RJ45 18

O

octacable

68-pin VHDCI connector 21
DB25 connectors 14
DB9 connectors 11
installation 8
RJ45 connectors 17

P

phone number

Comtrol 31

Port Monitor 29
ports

testing

Linux 30
Microsoft systems 28

product overview 5

Q

quadcable

68-pin VHDCI connector 21
DB25 connectors 14
DB9 connectors 11
installation 8
RJ45 connectors 17

R

Rackmount interface box

installation 9

RJ11

loopback plugs 20
null-modem cables 19
signals 19
straight-through cables 20

RJ45

loopback plugs 18
null-modem cables 18
signals 17
straight-through cables 18

RS-232

DB25

null-modem cables 15

DB25F standard interface box signals 15
DB25M

fan-out cable signals 14

DB25M surge interface box signals 15
DB9

null-modem cables 12
signals 12

RJ11

null-modem cables 19
signals 19

RJ45

null-modem cables 18
signals 17

RS-422

DB25

null-modem cables 16

DB25F standard interface box signals 15
DB25M

fan-out cable signals 14

DB25M surge interface box signals 15
DB9

null-modem cables 12
signals 12

RJ11

null-modem cables 19
signals 19

RJ45

null-modem cables 18
signals 17

RS-485

DB25M fan-out cable signals 14
DB25M surge interface box signals 15
DB9 signals 12
RJ11 signals 19
RJ45 signals 17

RS-485 (full-duplex)

DB25

null-modem cable 16

DB9

null-modem cables 12

RJ11

null-modem cables 19

RJ45

null-modem cables 18

RS-485 (half-duplex) 18, 20

S

Send and Receive Test Data 29
serial devices

connect 11

signals 19

DB9 12
RJ11 19
RJ45 17

34 - Index

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

specifications

product 21

straight-through cables

DB25 16
DB9 13
RJ11 20
RJ45 18

surge interface box

installation 8

T
Technical Support 31
Test Terminal 29

testing ports

Linux 30
Microsoft systems 28

troubleshooting 27

W
web site 31

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E

Index - 35

36 - Index

RocketPort EXPRESS User Guide: 2000481 Rev. E