
Congratulations on Selecting Intermec
to help you meet your data collection needs. You
have chosen a world leader in the data collection
industry.
®
To DNLN 2
From DNLN 2
9180
To DNLN 1
From DNLN 1
Network Controller
To Host
From Host
Fault
Power
9180G.001
The 9180 Network Controller can handle all
communications between the host computer and
the Intermec 900 MHz radio frequency (RF) data
collection network. It takes the data that is collected
through the RF channels and sends it to the host
computer. The 9180 Network Controller is also
responsible for transmitting data from the host to
the data collection devices. After it has been
installed, the controller can be configured to meet
your system’s specific layout requirements.
How the 9180 Network Controller Fits in a
Data Collection System
The Intermec 900 MHz RF data collection system is
comprised of several devices that work together to
compile all the data you collect and send to the
host computer.
When installed and configured, the system works
automatically and requires no assistance by an
operator. The only devices that require operation
are the scanners and readers used to collect the
data. The rest of the RF system works as a
transparent link between the data collection
devices and the host computer.
9183 Repeater
J2010 Reader
and Scanner
Printer with
9189
9181
RECEIVING
Base
Radio
Unit
Host
Computer
OFFICE
SHIPPING
PRODUCTION
J2050
Vehicle
Mount
Unit
FINISHED GOODS
9189
with fixed
reader and
wands
9181
Base Radio
Unit
9180 Network
Controller
Supervisory
Console
9180G.002

Getting Started
Place the controller on a clean stable surface that is
close to an AC power outlet or surge protector.
Also place the controller in an area that is protected
from dirt, debris, and liquids. Position the
controller so that the front panel is visible, and
there is at least 6 inches (15.24 cm) behind the back
panel.
To install the 9180 Network Controller you need
• an Intermec DC power supply (see “Basic
Electrical and Environmental Specifications”
for part numbers).
• a console to configure the controller.
• a standard RS-232 cable for connecting the
console to the controller.
• an RS-232 cross-over modem bypass (null
modem) cable to connect the controller directly
to the host, or an RS-422 cable if the host is 50
feet (15 meters) to 4000 feet (1220 meters) from
the controller.
Note: For distances greater that 4000 feet (1220
meters), use a modem and a modem cable assembly
that supports an RS-232 interface.
After you have placed the controller and have the
power supply, console, and cables, you are ready
to install the controller.
2. Connect the controller to the host directly or
with a modem.
To connect to the host For distances of up to
50 feet (15 meters), plug the 25-pin D-style
connector prongs of the RS-232 null modem
cable into the connection marked HOST on the
controller back panel. Plug the other end into
the host computer.
Note: For distances between 50 feet (15 meters) and
4000 feet (1220 meters) use an RS-422 connection.
To connect with a modem Plug the 25-pin Dstyle connector prongs of the RS-232 cable into
the connection marked HOST on the controller
back panel. Plug the other end into a modem.
Connect a modem to the host. The two
modems must be connected with an acoustic
coupler or a direct telephone line.
3. Connect one end of the standard RS-232 cable
to the connection marked CONSOLE on the
controller back panel. Plug the other end into
the console, or the modem.
4. Turn on the controller by pressing the power
switch on the back panel to the ON (I) position.
The light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the front
panel will light, indicating the controller is
performing a self-test. When the self-test is
finished, the Power LED will remain on.
1. Make sure the controller is OFF. Connect the
power supply four-pin connector into the
connection marked POWER on the controller
back panel. Connect the other end into the AC
power outlet or surge protector.
Do not turn on the controller.
Power Supply
POWER
DNLN 2
DNLN 1
RESET
RUN
S1
I
O
HOST
CONSOLE
9180G.003
To DNLN 2
From DNLN 2
®
9180
To DNLN 1
From DNLN 1
To Host
Network Controller
From Host
Power
Fault
9180G.004
5. Configure your console so you can use it with
the controller. Refer to the RF System/9180
Controller User’s Manual for more information.
The console must be set for:
• full duplex operation
• 9600 bps
• even parity
• 7 data bits and 2 stop bits
6. Configure your controller using the console.
Refer to the RF System/9180 Controller User’s
Manual for more information.

Physical Specifications
Dimensions 11.1 in x 7.5 in x 2.5 in
(28.2 cm x 19.1 cm x 6.3 cm)
Weight 6 lb (13.2 kg)
Basic Electrical and
Environmental Specifications
Power AC power supplies available:
supply
P
120 V 50/60 Hz (P/N 054182)
P
100 V 50/60 Hz (P/N 054183)
P
230 V 50/60 Hz (P/N 054184)
Electrical rating
R
10 V, 500 mA
Operating 32º to 122ºF
temperature (0º to 50ºC)
Storage -40º to 158ºF
temperature (-40º to 70ºC)
Relative 10% to 90% relative non-condensing
humidity
Other Specifications
Host Interface
Downline
Communications
EIA RS-232 or RS-422
Data rate: 300 bps to 19.2 KBps
ASCII asynchronous protocol
Odd, even, mark, space parity
7 or 8 data bits
One or two stops bits
Xon/Xoff handshake
Optional LRC for enhanced data integrity checking
Addressing and protocol compatible with 9154
Two ports
DB9 connectors
RS-422
Data rate: 64 KBps
NRZI
Protocol: ISO Standard HDLC
Devices supports: 64
Where to Find More Information
The RF System/9180 Controller User’s Manual (P/N 054292) contains
all of the information necessary to install, configure, operate, and
troubleshoot the controller.
For information on ordering a manual, contact your local Intermec
sales representative.
6001 36th Avenue West
P.O. Box 4280
Everett, WA 98203-9280
© 1998 Intermec
All Rights Reserved