Digital Networks DECserver ConX4, DECserver ConX4P Installation And User Manual

Installation and User’s Guide for the

4

DECserver ConX

Part Number: IG-DSC04-00

November 2004

This document describes how to install and troubleshoot the DECserver ConX4 and DECserver ConX4P
products.

and ConX

4P

www.digitalnetworks.net

Digital Networks makes no representations that the use of its products in the manner described
in this publication will not infringe on existing or future patent rights, nor do the descriptions
contained in this publication imply the granting of licenses to make, use, or sell equipment or
software in accordance with the description.

Possession, use, or copying of the software described in this publication is authorized only pursuant to a
valid written license from Digital Networks or an authorized sublicensor.

Copyright © 2004 DNPG, LLC (“Digital Networks”). All rights reserved.

Digital Networks
20 North Wentworth Ave.
Londonderry , NH 03053-7438
USA

Web site: www.digitalnetworks.net

Digital Networks is the tradename of DNPG, LLC.
All Other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

NOTICES

FCC Notice — Class A Computing Device: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with

the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. 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. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

CE Notice — Class A Computing Device:

Warning!

This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which case
the user may be required to take adequate measures.

Achtung!

Dieses ist ein Gerät der Funkstörgrenzwertklasse A. In Wohnbereichen können bei Betrieb dieses Gerätes
Rundfunkstörungen auftreten, in welchen Fällen der Benutzer für entsprechende Gegenmaßnahmen
verantwortlich ist.

Avertissement!

Cet appareil est un appareil de Classe A. Dans un environnement résidentiel cet appareil peut provoquer des
brouillages radioélectriques. Dans ce cas, il peut être demandé à l'utilisateur de prendre les mesures appropriées.

Preface

Overview................................................................................................................. -v

Purpose of This Guide ....................................................................................... -v

Intended Audience ............................................................................................. -v

Structure of This Guide...................................................................................... -v

Related Documentation...................................................................................... -v

Conventions ....................................................................................................... -v

Chapter 1 Overview

Introduction........................................................................................................... 1-1

In This Chapter ................................................................................................ 1-1

Package Contents............................................................................................. 1-1

Description....................................................................................................... 1-2

Features............................................................................................................ 1-3

Protocols .......................................................................................................... 1-3

Hardware.......................................................................................................... 1-4

Chapter 2 Installation

Overview............................................................................................................... 2-1

Introduction...................................................................................................... 2-1

In This Chapter ................................................................................................ 2-1

Powering the DECserver ConX4 Hardware .................................................... 2-1

Configuration Installation ................................................................................ 2-3

Booting From Flash RAM ............................................................................... 2-7

Booting From the Network .............................................................................. 2-7

Using Console Commands to Boot.................................................................. 2-8

Reset to Factory Defaults............................................................................... 2-13

Upgrading Firmware...................................................................................... 2-13

Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

Overview............................................................................................................... 3-1

Introduction...................................................................................................... 3-1

In This Chapter ................................................................................................ 3-1

Chapter 4 Specifications

Overview.............................................................................................................. A-1

Introduction..................................................................................................... A-1

In This Chapter ............................................................................................... A-1

Physical Specifications ................................................................................... A-1

Preface

Overview

This manual describes the procedures used to install and troubleshoot the DECserver ConX4 product
family.

Purpose of This Guide

This guide describes how to install the DECserver ConX4 hardware. It also provides problem-solving
information and product specifications. Read through this guide completely to understand the features
and capabilities.

Intended Audience

This guide is intended for the hardware installer. The installer is responsible for ensuring that the
hardware is installed and tested.

Structure of This Guide

Chapter/
Appendix

Preface Preface Describes the use and audience for this document.

Chapter 1 Overview

Chapter 2 Installation Describes selected methods of installing the DECserver

Chapter 3 Troubleshooting Describes troubleshooting techniques.

Appendix A Specifications

For software installation information, refer to the DECserver Network Access Software Installation
documentation.

Title Description

Provides an overview of the DECserver ConX

ConX4 product family.

Lists DECserver ConX

4

specifications.

4

features.

Related Documentation

All related documents to help the user to install a DECserver ConX4 may be
found on the Web and can be located at http://www.digitalnetworks.net/.

Conventions

This document uses the following conventions.

Convention Description

Bold Type Indicates user input.

v

Convention Description

Ctrl /X Hold down the Control key and simultaneously press the key specified

UPPERCASE Uppercase letters in command lines indicate keywords that must be

by X. The DECserver displays this key combination as ^X.

entered. You can enter keywords in either upper-case or lowercase.
You can abbreviate command keywords to the smallest number of
characters that distinguish the key-word to the DECserver.

The following are used to call attention to important information throughout this document.

NOTE:

NOTE

Calls the reader’s attention to any item of information that may be of special
importance.

WARNING:

Warns against an action that could result in the presence of an electrical
hazard.

CAUTION:

vi

Contains information essential to avoid damage to the equipment.

Support Services

Support Services

To locate product-specific information, information about our other products, or product warranty
information, refer to our website:

http://www.digitalnetworks.net/

To contact us by mail:

Digital Networks
20 North Wentworth Ave
Londonderry, NH 03053-7438
USA

To contact us by phone:

Location Phone Number

U.S. and Canada [phone]

Europe [phone]

Others [phone]

vii

Support Services

This page is intentionally blank.

viii

Chapter 1

Overview

Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of the DECserver ConX4 product family.

DECserver solutions make it possible to remotely manage your serial-only devices over a network. Serial
devices such as: modems, bar code readers, scanners, cash registers, laboratory instruments, numerically
controlled factory equipment, and virtually any RS232, RS422 and RS423 based devices are supported

by the DECserver ConX

In This Chapter

Information is presented in this chapter as follows:

Topic Page

Package Contents 1-1

Description 1-2

Features 1-3

4

family.

Protocols 1-3

Hardware 1-4

Package Contents

DECserver ConX4, check the contents of the box to be sure you received the following components.

There are three ConX

4

(DSC04-A*) DECserver ConX4 with AC Power

ConX

• DECserver ConX

• AC Power adapter

• Country-specific power cable

• Product CD-ROM

• Console cable

• DB9 null-modem adapter

4P

ConX

• DECserver ConX

• Power-over-Ethernet injector, with power adapter

• Country-specific power cable

• Product CD-ROM

(DSC04-B*) DECserver ConX4P with Power-over-Ethernet

4

product variants:

4

serial device server

4

serial device server

Overview 1-1

• Console cable

• DB9 null-modem adapter

4P

ConX

(DSC04-P*) DECserver ConX4P with Power-Over-Ethernet

• DECserver ConX

4P

serial device server

• Power-over-Ethernet injector, with power adapter

• AC Power Adapter

• Country-specific power cable

• Product CD-ROM

• Console cable

• DB9 null-modem adapter

Note: The asterisk indicates the following country variants:

A=US/Canada/Japan; D=Denmark; E=United Kingdon; I=Italyl j=India; K=Switcherland; T=Israel;
X=Central Europe; Z=Australia

The DECserver ConX

Figure 1–1 shows a ConX

4

is a serial device server designed to operate in multi-vendor environments.

4

configuration in a data center Ethernet LAN.

Description

The DECserver ConX4 is a full function console and serial device server designed to operate in multi­vendor environments.

Figure 1-1 show a typical DECserver ConX

4

configuration in a Ethernet LAN.

1-2 Overview

Figure 1-1: DECserver ConX

4

ConnectionFeatures

Features

The DECserver ConX4 supports the following standard features and protocols.

• Network enable any RS232/RS422/RS423 serial device for remote access and control

• Auto-detected 10/100Mbps Ethernet full-duplex and half-duplex communications supported

• 8 sessions per port

• Upgradeable on-board firmware.

• Tabletop, wall-mount or rack rail mount configiration options

• CTS/RTS or XON/XOFF flow control

• Manageable using Access Server Manager on Windows and Windows NT systems

• Manageable through remote console facility on OpenVMS, ULTRIX, or UNIX systems

• Kerberos-based user authentication support

• Command line recall and editing

• 3270 Terminal Emulator (TN3270) support

• Domain Name System (DNS) support

• Port characteristics

—RJ45

— Individual port status LEDs

— DTR/DSR and RTS/CTS control signaling

Protocols

• Bootstrap Protocol (BOOTP/TFTP)

• Compressed Serial Line Internet Protocol (CSLIP)

• LAT Protocol

• Maintenance Operation Protocol (MOP)

• Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP)

• Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP)

• Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)

• Telnet

• Terminal Device/Session Management Protocol (TD/SMP)

• Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP)

• Directed Trivial File Transfer Protocol (DTFTP)

• Line Printer Daemon (LPD)

Overview 1-3

Hardware

Figure 1–2 calls out the DECserver ConX4 controls, indicators, and connectors.
Table 1–1 provides a description of these features.

Figure 1-2: DECserver ConX

4

Hardware

1

1-4 Overview

Table 1-1: Controls, Indicators, and Connectors

Item Description

1 Power Indicator Turns on when power is supplied to the DECserver

4

ConX

through a power adapter or through Power-over-

Ethernet (PoE).

2 System OK Indicator

Turns on when the DECserver ConX

4

successfully

completes the ROM-based self-tests.

3 Network OK Indicator

Turns on when you connect the DECserver ConX
properly terminated network. Blinks while the ConX

4

to a

4

loads or dumps software.

4 10/100 Connector

5 Ethernet MAC Address

Connects the DECserver ConX

The MAC address of the DECserver ConX

4

to the network.

4

.

6 Port Activity Indicators Consists of four LEDs, each corresponding to a device

port on the DECserver ConX

4

. Each port activity LED
turns on when the associated port is in use. These LEDs
blink when port activity is detected and continue blinking
until port data transfer stops. The LEDs are also used to
indicate status during the power-on selftest.

7 Port Connectors (RJ45) Connects the peripheral devices to the DECserver

4

.

ConX

8 Reset Switch

Resets the DECserver ConX

4

to the factory-default

characteristics.

9 Power Connector Connects the power source to the standalone DECserver

4

.

ConX

Overview 1-5

This page is intentionally blank.

1-6 Overview

Chapter 2

Installation

Overview

Introduction

This chapter describes how to install the DECserver ConX4 as a standalone device (on a tabletop or
mounted to a wall).

In This Chapter

Topic Page

Powering the DECserver ConX4 Hardware 2-1

Configuration Installation 2-3

Running the DECserver ConX

Loading the DECserver Network Access Software 2-7

Verifying the Operation of the DECserver Ports 2-12

4

Self-Tests

2-6

Installing the DECserver ConX4 Hardware

The following sections describe how to install the DECserver ConX

4

hardware.

Powering the DECserver ConX4 Hardware

The DECserver ConX4 can be powered by standard AC power or 802.3af Power-Over Ethernet, or by
using both, which provides a source of backup power when outages occur.

Standard AC Power

If you purchased the DSC04-A*, the product packaging contains the following power components: [1]
AC Power Adapter and [1] Country-specific power cord. See chapter 1, Package Contents. Refer to
Figure 2-1.

Installation 2-1

Figure 2-1: Figure 2-1 shows how to connect the AC power adapter.

802.3af Power-over-Ethernet, PoE

The AC Adapter is not required to apply power to the DECserver ConX

option. Power is applied through a CAT-5 cable. The DECserver ConX

CAT-5 cable must be connected between the DECserver ConX

4P

when choosing the DSC04-B* PoE

4P

is a ’Powered Device’ (PD). The

4P

LAN port and PSE ’Power Sourcing
Equipment’, such as an 802.3af compliant Ethernet switch, or an 802.3af compliant power injector. The
DSC04-B* ships with an 802.3af power injector.

Backup Power, Standard AC and 802.3af Power-over-Ethernet

If you purchased the DSC04-P*, the product packaging contains the following:[1] AC Power Adapter, [1]
Power-over-Ethernet injector and [1] country-specific power cord.

By connecting the AC power adapter between the ConX

the power injector between the ConX

4P

LAN port via Cat-5 cable and to a UPS (uniterruptible power supply),

4P

and a standard AC power outlet, and by connecting

this option provides a source of backup power when outages occur. The AC adapter and the PoE injector ship
with the DSC04-P*.

Figure 2-2: Figure 2-2 show how to assemble the PoE components.

2-2 Installation

Contact your Digital Networks sales representative for information on approved PSE devices.

Configuration Installation

Depending on your configuration, you can install the DECserver ConX4 as a tabletop device, on a wall,
or it can be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack (see note at the bottom of this page).

Tabletop Installation

• Attach the included rubber feet to the bottom of the unit.

• Connect the 10/100Base-T connector to a properly configured 10/100BASE-T

network as shown in Figure 2–2.

• Chose your power option: Standard AC or PoE. Figure 2-2 shows Standard AC
configuration.

• Verify that the power LED is on and that the DECserver ConX

4

is running the

self-tests.

• Verify that the DECserver ConX

4

successfully ran all of the self-tests.

Wallmount Installation

• The wall mounting cover plate (refer to Figure 2–4) is available as an option.

• Use the mounting plate as a template and position each of the #8 1-inch mounting

screws (not supplied).

• Secure the mounting screws.

• Replace the mounting cover plate on the unit.

• Connect the 10/100Base-T connector to a properly configured 10/100BASE-T

network as shown in Figure 2–2.

• Chose your power option: Standard AC or PoE. Figure 2-3 shows Standard AC
configuration.

• Verify that the power LED is on and that the DECserver ConX

4

is running the

self-tests.

• Verify that the DECserver ConX

4

successfully ran all of the self-tests.

Figure 2-3 shows the standalone configuration of the 10/100BASE-T connection as described in Table
2-1.

Installation 2-3

NOTE

To facilitate mounting the DECserver ConX4 on a standard 19-inch cab­inet, the spacing of the screw holes on the Wallmount bracket are identi­cal the spacing on the cabinet rails.

Figure 2-3: Standalone Configuration – 10/100BASE-T Connection

Table 2-1: Description of Standalone Configuration (10/100BASE-T)

Callout Number Description

1 RJ45 Cable to Ethernet

2 Serial Port Cable

3 Power Cable and International Power Supply

2-4 Installation

Running the DECserver ConX4 Self-Tests

The DECserver ConX4 runs a series of self-tests when you turn on the power. It reports test status through

4

the DECserver ConX

Port Activity LEDs (refer to Figure 1–2).

If the DECserver ConX

the DECserver ConX

4

is not properly connected to an Ethernet LAN (refer to the section, Installing

4

Hardware, in this chapter), the network loopback self-tests fail.

The following list describes the status of the LEDs during self-test.

• Initially, all LEDs go on briefly, then go off, leaving only the power LED on.

• The Port Activity LEDs go on one-by-one and remain on, as the DECserver

4

ConX

completes each segment of self-test. All four LEDs are on once the tests

have run successfully.

• After successful completion of the self-tests, the System OK LED is on and the
four port LEDs go off.

Refer to the section "On-Board Flash Memory", for the procedure to reset your module to factory default
settings.

NOTE

If a self-test pattern halts, an error condition has been detected (refer to
Chapter 3).

Installation 2-5

Loading the DECserver Network Access Software

Before you load the software, optionally attach a terminal to the console port. The DECserver displays status
messages on the console terminal while the boot sequence is running. Status messages indicate the Ethernet
address of the DECserver, the name of the load image it is looking for, and the current stage of the boot
process.

Booting From Flash RAM

Once the self-tests are complete, the DECserver begins the boot sequence to load the software from Flash
RAM. Port Activity LED 4 goes on to indicate a Flash RAM boot sequence is in progress. A typical Flash
RAM load takes about 10 seconds.

If you want to abort a boot from Flash RAM, it is only during these 10 seconds when the software is loading
that you can abort the Flash RAM load by pressing the Reset-to-Factory button until Port Activity LED 4
blinks.

Booting From the Network

If the correct image is not found in Flash RAM, the DECserver proceeds to perform a network load. When
you start the boot process, the Network OK LED blinks continuously and the system OK LED remains on
indicating that the DECserver is attempting to load the software from the network.

During the network boot sequence, the DECserver searches for a load host. The DECserver tries both MOP
and BOOTP/TFTP protocols in a factory-defined order. The boot sequence includes a wait period after
passing through all the boot protocols. Once the DECserver finds a load host, it records the protocol and load
host in its permanent database. The software is then downline loaded from the load host.

Port Activity LEDs 6, 7, or 8 go on to indicate which protocol the DECserver is using to downline load the
software. Port Activity LED 5 goes on to indicate that all attempts to find a load host have failed and that the
DECserver will remain in a wait state for a designated period of time before trying again. Port Activity LED
4 goes on to indicate the software is being booted from Flash RAM (refer to Table 2–3).

Table 2-2: LOAD and DUMP Protocols

Port LED Meaning

4 Booting from Flash RAM

1 Waiting to retry

2 Ethernet BOOTP/TFTP or dump

3 ISO 8802 MOP load or dump

4MOP load or dump

For more information about installing the software, refer to the appropriate
DECserver Network Access Software Installation documentation.

Using Console Commands to Boot

If you program Flash RAM with a nonstandard boot image name and a load host is not available, pressing the
reset-to-factory button may leave the DECserver unbootable. A nonstandard boot image name is any name
other than MNENG4.

2-6 Installation

To allow booting of a nonstandard boot image name, perform the following steps:

1) 1. During the boot sequence of the DECserver initialization process, press Ctrl/B
two times consecutively.

Ctrl/B Ctrl/B

The boot process stops and the DECserver returns the following console prompt:

>>>

2)

At the >>> prompt, you can enter H to invoke help.

Entering H provides minimal help text to describe the interactive boot mode commands available. Table
2–4 lists the boot mode commands and summarizes the help text that displays when you invoke H.

Table 2-3: Interactive Boot Mode Commands

This command... Means...

B Boot the DECserver software.

B name Boot the DECserver software name.

B media:name . The DECserver looks for the software name

from the media (Flash RAM or the network)

B/M Boot the maintenance software for the

DECserver.

B/S Boot the standard software for the DECserver.

B/U Boot specified software and update flash with

the new image.

H Provide help.

I Initialize the DECserver.

R Reset to the factory settings and initialize the

DECserver.

You have several options when you use the B command.

• B –– This command, without an argument, starts a new boot sequence to load the
DECserver with an executable image using the default boot parameters.

• B name –– This command and the argument name specifies a nonstandard boot
image. The DECserver looks for the software name; first from Flash RAM, then
from the network.

Installation 2-7

— B MNENG4 –– This command instructs the DECserver to look for the MNENG4

software image first in Flash RAM, then from the network.

— b /tftp/serversw –– This command instructs the DECserver to look for image /

TFTP/SERVERSW; first in Flash RAM, then from the network. If you want
lowercase letters, you have to use quotation marks. For example:

b “/tftp/serversw”

— B “” –– This command and the quotation marks (explicit null name) instruct the

DECserver to search for any image in Flash RAM. If the DECserver is unable to
find an image in Flash RAM, then it loads from the network. The network load
host defines this software and is typically based on the Ethernet MAC address of
the DECserver.

2-8 Installation

• B media:name –– The media name specifies which boot media to use.

— FLA: –– Use Flash RAM. For example:

Use this command to load image MNENG4

B FLA:MNENG4

Use this command to reload the same image already in flash.

B FLA:

— ETH: –– Use the network to find a load host. For example:

B ETH:MNENG4

— FLA:ETH: –– Use Flash RAM first, and if that does not work, then use

the network to find a load host. For example:

B FLA:ETH:MNENG4

B/M –– This command boots the maintenance mode software for the DEC-

•

server. The network load host defines this software and is typically based
on the Ethernet MAC address of the DECserver.

• B/S –– This command boots the standard system software for the

DECserver. The network load host defines this software and is typically
based on the Ethernet MAC address of the DECserver.

• B/U –– This command boots the specified update image and initiates a

flash rom update. This command may be used to update either firmware or
software that resides in the onboard flash. When using the B/U command
the image name must be specified. You can boot update images from the
network using either MOP or TFTP.

• H –– This command displays the help text that describes the interactive

boot mode commands.

• I–– This command initializes the DECserver using the default boot

parameters. All normal self-tests are performed.

• R –– This command resets the factory-settings and initializes the

DECserver. This command requires verification. Enter YES if you want to
reset the DECserver to factory settings.

The S command is available if you desire to direct a load from a specific TFTP load host. Use
this command to set up the desired characteristics before initiating and boot command.

Installation 2-9

S address Set various IP addresses for directed TFTP image loading-- the address specification is
of the form aa=nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn where "aa=" is one of:

IP= the IP address of the DECserver,

GW= the IP address of the default gateway,

TFTP= the IP address of the TFTP load server.

example

>>> S IP = address

2-10 Installation

Verifying the Operation of the DECserver Ports

To verify the operation of each port, perform the following steps:

1) Connect a terminal to the port you want to test.

2) Press the Return key two or three times to set the operating speed (autobaud) of

the port.

3) Type a character on the terminal and observe each Port Activity LED for a
reaction. The Port Activity LED should turn on, indicating that the corresponding
port is in use. Additional characters should then cause the LED to blink.

Installation 2-11

On-Board Flash Memory

The DECserver uses non-volatile flash memory to store the following:

• Configuration data

Non-volatile configuration settings for DECserver hardware and software.

• Firmware (bootrom)

The firmware abstracts the hardware from the software layer and provides boot capability
as well as many other low-level functions

• Software (Flash bootable copy)

The DECserver Network Access Software stored in flash to enable local booting. This is the operational
sofware running in the DECserver once it has completed booting.

Reset to Factory Defaults

To reset the DECserver to its factory-default settings, press the Reset switch and cycle the power. Keeping
the Reset switch depressed until the Network OK and System OK LEDs flash rapidly. This indicates that the
DECserver has been reset to the factory settings

Factory settings may also be achieved using the Interactive Boot Mode "R" command. See section, "Using
Console Commands to Boot", for more information.

Upgrading Firmware

The firmware in the DECserver is upgradeable and from time to time Digital Networks may make new
versions available. Check the Digital Networks website and your DECserver Network Access Software
release notes to determine if you need an update.

Procedures for determining your current DECserver firmware version and upgrading to new firmware are
outlined in the following tables.

Procedure to determine the DECserver Firmware Version:

Step Action

1 Attach a terminal to the console port. (Factory Defaults: Port 1, Baud=9600,

Parity=None, Databits=8, and StopBits=1) If your configuration settings have
changed you console settings may be different.

2-12 Installation

Step Action

2 If your DECserver is already booted and running DECserver Network Access

Software skip to section B:

A) Apply power. When self-test completes the following will be displayed on the
console:

Local>

Local -901- Initializing DECserver ConX4 00-10-64-

8E-A2-3B FW V2.6 HW 1.0

. . .

Proceed to Step 3.

B.) From the DECserver Network Access Server "Local>" prompt type the
following:

Local> show server

Network Access SW V3.1 BL01 for ConX4 ROM 2.6 Uptime:

0 00:02:42

...

3 In both of the previous examples the firmware version was shown to be V2.6.

Procedure for Upgrading your DECserver ConX4 Firmware:

Step Action

1 Make a Bootp/TFTP, TFTP, or MOP load host available on the same LAN segment as

the DECserver.

2 Obtain firmware update image and place in the load area. Make sure to use the

appropriate filename (ie MNBOOT.SYS for MOP Server or MNBOOT for TFTP).

If you are using a BOOTP/TFTP server, such as Access Server Loader, be sure to
configure it properly with the DECServer MAC address, IP-Address, IP-Mask, Device
Name and the firmware update file name.

Installation 2-13

Step Action

3 Connect to console terminal of DECserver. (Factory Default: Port 1, Baud=9600,

Parity=None, Databits=8, and StopBits=1) If your configuration settings have changed
you console settings may be different.)

4 Apply power to the DECserver.

5 During the boot sequence of the DECserver initialization process, press Ctrl/B two times

consecutively.

6 If you are using a BOOTP/TFTP or MOP to load your file at the ">>>" prompt type:

>>> b/u filename

If you are using a TFTP server as your load host, you must provide TFTP load
information using the S command. This procedure is outlined below:

Specify the IP address for the DECserver to use:

>>> s ip=###.###.###.###

Specify the IP address of the TFTP Server:

>>> s tftp=###.###.###.###

Specify your IP Gateway:

>>> s gw=###.###.###.###

Now boot the firmware update image:

>>> b/u filename

7 Wait for the module to reset or reset manually after bootrom update success message is

displayed.

Upgrading Software

For information on upgrading your DECserver Network Access software please refer to Network Access
Server Install Guide.

2-14 Installation

This page is intentionally blank.

Installation 2-15

2-16 Installation

Chapter 3

Troubleshooting

Overview

Introduction

This chapter provides troubleshooting information for the DECserver. This chapter also provides
problem and solution information tables to help you isolate hardware, software, or network problems.

Before servicing the DECserver, you should:

1. Verify that you have properly installed the DECserver.

2. Note the fault condition.

3. Isolate the problem.

In This Chapter

Topic Page

Operating Problems 3-2

Troubleshooting 3-1

Operating Problems

Operating Problems

When troubleshooting self-test or boot problems, connect a terminal to the console port on the
DECserver to view error messages. Port 1 is the default console port.

NOTE

For descriptions of error messages and tips on trouble-shooting
DECserver problems, refer to the Network Access Server Problem Solv­ing Guide.

3-2 Troubleshooting

Table 3–1 lists some possible hardware, software, or network problems and suggested
solutions.

Table 3-1: DECserver Troubleshooting

Problems Possible Causes Action

Operating Problems

The self-test fails, and the
network LED does not go on.

The port activity LEDs do not
respond when characters are
typed on the console
keyboard.

The port does not respond to
the console terminal.

The DECserver power LED
does not go on.

The network LED port or
10/100BASE-T connector is
not connected to a network.

A fatal hardware error
occurred

Interface cable may be
disconnected or faulty

The port may be faulty. Refer to the Network Access

Port and terminal
parameters may be set
incorrectly.

The power cord is
disconnected from the
outlet.

The DECserver is not
receiving +3.3VDC.

Reseat the power supply,
backplane installation only.

The LED is bad. Replace the DECserver.

Terminate the network correctly.
Replace the DECserver.

Secure or replace the cable.

Server Problem Solving Guide.

Refer to the Network Access
Server Problem Solving Guide.

Connect the power cord.

Check power supply
connection.

Replace the power supply.

The network LED is not on. The network is down. Determine the network status.

Check network connectivity. Run MOP loopback or MOP

The Ethernet connection
may be disconnected

The communication port
may not be terminated.

Ethernet speed/duplex not
detected

There is no response at the
Local prompt.

Terminal connection to the
console port may be
broken.

console carrier session tests.

Reconnect the Ethernet cable.

Terminate the T-connector on
the communications port.

Force the port on the Ethernet
switch to 10Mb/s half-duplex.

Secure the console terminal
cable to the console port.

Troubleshooting 3-3

Operating Problems

Problems Possible Causes Action

The DECserver cannot
connect to a service on the
LAT network.

The DECserver cannot
connect to a host on the
network through Telnet.

Printer does not print or
prints incorrectly.

The printer port LED does
not go on.

The printer is not
acknowledged by the printer
port.

The service is not available. Refer to the Network Access

LAT software is not installed
on the host system.

The host name is not in the
local database.

Group Codes are not
enabled.

The host is not on a local
area network.

Internet and Telnet
parameters are not set or
are set incorrectly.

Printer port and baud rate
do not match.

The printer is disconnected. Connect the printer.

The port may be set
incorrectly.

Check printer port access. Refer to the Network Access

Server Problem Solving Guide.

Refer to the Network Access
Server Problem Solving Guide.

Refer to the Network Access
Server Problem Solving Guide.

Refer to the Network Access
Server Problem Solving Guide.

Refer to the Network Access
Server Problem Solving Guide.

Refer to the Network Access
Server Problem Solving Guide.

Reset printer and port baud
rates to match.

Refer to the Network Access

Server Problem Solving Guide.

Server Problem Solving Guide.

Flow control is not set. Refer to the Network Access

The power LED is on , the
self-test OK LED is on, and
the network LED is blinking.

The port activity LED does
not blink when port traffic is
present.

3-4 Troubleshooting

The DECserver cannot find
the load image.

Port characteristics may be
set incorrectly.

Server Problem Solving Guide.

Ensure LOADING is enabled on
the host. Reinstall the software
to replace the load image.

Verify settings using the SHOW
PORT n command.

Overview

Introduction

This appendix lists the specifications for the DECserver ConX4.

In This Chapter

Topic Page

In This Chapter A-1

Environmental Specifications A-2

Power Specifications A-3

DECserver ConX

Cable Connector Pin Out A-5

4

Connector Pin Out

Appendix A

Specifications

A-4

Physical Specifications

Table A–1 lists the physical specifications for the DECserver ConX4.

Tab l e A- 1: Physical Specifications

Dimension Value

Height

Width

Depth

Weight

3.18 cm (1.25 in)

19.1 cm (7.5 in)

10.4 cm (4.1 in)

0.68 kg (1.5lb)

A-1

Environmental Specifications

Environmental Specifications

The DECserver ConX4 is designed to operate in an office environment or in equipment room
environments, such as telephone closets or satellite equipment rooms. The operating and shipping
environments are described in Tables A–2 and A–3.

Table A-2: Operating Environment

Dimension Value

Temperature 5 C to 50 C (41 F to 122 F)

Maximum rate of change 20 C/hr (36 F/hr) change

Relative humidity 10 % to 95 % (noncondensing)

Wet-bulb temperature 32 C (90 F) maximum

Dew point 2 C (36 F) minimum

Altitude Sea level to 2.4 km (8000 ft)

Air flow Convectively cooled. A minimum of 10 cm (4

in) of space must be provided on both ends of
the unit for adequate air flow.

Table A-3: Storage Environment

Item Value

Temperature –40 C to 85 C (–40 F to 185F)

Relative humidity 10 % to 95 % (noncondensing)

Altitude Sea level to 4.9 km (16000 ft)

A-2

Power Specifications

Power Specifications

Table A–4 lists the DECserver ConX4 power supply specifications and Table A–5 lists the DECserver

4

power specifications.

ConX

Tab l e A- 4: Power Supply

Item Value

Input Voltage 90 - 264 Vac

Input current 0.4 amps

Inrush current at 115Vac 15 amps

Frequency 50 Hz to 60 Hz

Power consumption 3 W

Output voltage 3.3 Vdc

Output current 0 - 2.50 A

Tab l e A- 5: Decserver ConX

Item Value

Input voltage 3.3 Vdc

Input current 0.4 A

4

Power Specifications

A-3

DECserver ConX4 Connector Pin Out

DECserver ConX4 Connector Pin Out

Pin out for the DECserver ConX4 was designed for compatibility with Open DECconnect. Figure A–1
shows the circuit connections for each port.

Figure A-1: Port Circuit

A-4

Cable Connector Pin Out

Cable Connector Pin Out

This section provides wiring diagrams for the serial communication cable connectors listed in Table A–6.

Tab l e A- 6: Cable Connectors

Item Value

BN25G MP8-to-MP8 (Modular Plug) equipment cable

BN24H MP8-to-MMP6 (Modified Modular Plug) office

cable

The BN25G is a twisted-pair (four twisted pairs) cable with standard 8-pin modular plugs. The cable is
wired straight-through for all eight connectors. Figure A–2 shows the wiring configuration for the

BN25G cable. This is the standard cable used to connect an asynchronous port on the DECserver ConX
to an Open DECconnect wall plate. The cable comes in different lengths and two versions: CAT5 and
CAT5e.

Figure A-2: BN25G & BN25E Equipment Cabling Wiring Diagram

4

A-5

Cable Connector Pin Out

Table A-7 defines the wiring configuration for the BN25G cable.

Table A-7: BN25G Cable Wiring Configurations.

DECserver ConX

8-pin Modular Plug

4

8-pin Modular Plug

RJ45

Pin Signal Pin Signal

1 RXD GND 1 RXD GND

2 RXD 2 RXD

3 TXD GND 3 TXD GND

4 Not used 4 Not used

5 Not used 5 Not used

6TXD 6 TXD

7DTR 7DTR

8DSR 8DSR

The BN24H is a twisted-pair (three twisted pairs) cable with a standard 8-pin RJ45 connector on one end

and a 6-pin modified modular plug on the other end. Use this cable to connect the DECserver ConX

4

to
an MMJ connector on an asynchronous device. You can also use the BN24H when connecting an
asynchronous device to a DECconnect wall plate.

Use an H8584-AA adapter when connecting the DECserver ConX

4

to existing MMJ wiring. The adapter

uses a standard 8-pin RJ45 connector on one side and a 6-pin modified plug on the other end.

Figure A-3 shows the wiring configuration for the BN24H cable and H8584-AA adapter.

Figure A-3: BN24H Office Cable Wiring Diagram

Table A-8 defines the wiring configuration for the BN24H cable.

A-6

Cable Connector Pin Out

Tab l e A- 8: Wiring Configuration for the BN24H cable

DECserver ConX

or Wall Plate

4

Asynchronous Device

6-pin Modular Plug

8-pin RJ45 Connector

Pin Signal Pin Signal

1 RXD GND 3 TXD GND

2RXD 2TXD

3 TXD GND 4 RXD GND

4 Not used

5 Not used

6 TXD 5 RXD

7DTR 6DSR

8DSR 1DTR

A-7

Cable Connector Pin Out

This page is intentionally blank.

A-8