Lantronix CoBox-FL, CoBox-FL-IAP User Manual

CoBox-FL/CoBox-FL-IAP

User Guide

Part Number 900-285

Revision E 8/03

Copyright and Trademark

© 2003, Lantronix. All rights reserved. No part of the contents of this book may be
transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means without the written permission of
Lantronix. Printed in the United States of America.

Ethernet is a trademark of XEROX Corporation. UNIX is a registered trademark of The Open
Group. Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000, and Windows NT are trademarks of
Microsoft Corp. Netscape is a trademark of Netscape Communications Corporation.

Lantronix

15353 Barranca Parkway
Irvine, CA 92618, USA
Phone: [phone]

Technical Support

Phone: [phone] or 9949-453-7198
Fax: [phone]
On-line: www.lantronix.com/support

Disclaimer and Revisions

Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case
the user, at his or her own expense, will be required to take whatever measures may be
required to correct the interference.

Attention: This product has been designed to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference when operating in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with this guide, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications.

Changes or modifications to this device not explicitly approved by Lantronix will void the
user's authority to operate this device.

The information in this guide may change without notice. The manufacturer assumes no
responsibility for any errors which may appear in this guide.

Date Rev. Comments

07/01/01 C Current release.
09/25/02 D Revised for Device Installer, new format. Includes all

CoBox-FL devices.

08/25/03 E Updated warranty information.

Declaration of Conformity

(according to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and BS 7514)

Manufacturer’s Name & Address:

Lantronix, 15353 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618 USA

Declares that the following product:

Product Name Model: CoBox-FL/CoBox-FL-IAP Device Server

Conforms to the following standards or other normative documents:

Safety: EN60950:1992+A1, A2, A3, A4,A11
Electromagnetic Emissions:

FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Class A
EN55022: 1998 (CISPR 22, Class A: 1993, A1: 1995, A2: 1996)
IEC 1000-3-2/A14: 2000
IEC 1000-3-3: 1994

Electromagnetic Immunity:

EN55024: 1998 Information Technology Equipment-Immunity Characteristics
IEC61000-4-2: 1995 Electro-Static Discharge Test
IEC61000-4-3: 1996 Radiated Immunity Field Test
IEC61000-4-4: 1995 Electrical Fast Transient Test
IEC61000-4-5: 1995 Power Supply Surge Test
IEC61000-4-6: 1996 Conducted Immunity Test
IEC61000-4-8: 1993 Magnetic Field Test
IEC61000-4-11: 1994 Voltage Dips & Interrupts Test
(L.V.D. Directive 73/23/EEC)

Supplementary Information:

This Class A digital apparatus has been verified as being compliant within the Class A limits of
the FCC Radio Frequency Device Rules (FCC Title 47, Part 15, Subpart B CLASS A), measured
to CISPR 22: 1993 limits and methods of measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of
Information Technology Equipment. The product complies with the requirements of the Low
Voltage Directive 72/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC.

Manufacturer’s Contact:

Director of Quality Assurance, Lantronix
15353 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618 USA
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Warranty

Lantronix warrants each Lantronix product to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of ONE YEAR after the date of shipment. During this period, if a
customer is unable to resolve a product problem with Lantronix Technical Support, a Return
Material Authorization (RMA) will be issued. Following receipt of a RMA number, the
customer shall return the product to Lantronix, freight prepaid. Upon verification of warranty,
Lantronix will -- at its option -- repair or replace the product and return it to the customer
freight prepaid. No services are handled at the customer's site under this warranty. This
warranty is voided if the customer uses the product in an unauthorized or improper way, or in
an environment for which it was not designed.

Lantronix warrants the media containing its software product to be free from defects and
warrants that the software will operate substantially according to Lantronix specifications for
a period of 60 DAYS after the date of shipment. The customer will ship defective media to
Lantronix. Lantronix will ship the replacement media to the customer.

In no event will Lantronix be responsible to the user in contract, in tort (including
negligence), strict liability or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential
damage or loss of equipment, plant or power system, cost of capital, loss of profits or
revenues, cost of replacement power, additional expenses in the use of existing software,
hardware, equipment or facilities, or claims against the user by its employees or customers
resulting from the use of the information, recommendations, descriptions and safety notations
supplied by Lantronix. Lantronix liability is limited (at its election) to:

1) refund of buyer's purchase price for such affected products (without interest)

2) repair or replacement of such products, provided that the buyer follows the above
procedures.

There are no understandings, agreements, representations or warranties, expressed or implied,
including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, other than those
specifically set out above or by any existing contract between the parties. Any such contract
states the entire obligation of Lantronix. The contents of this document shall not become part
of or modify any prior or existing agreement, commitment or relationship.

Sales Offices

The Americas
15353 Barranca Parkway
Irvine, CA 92618, USA
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

[e-mail]

France
2 Rue Hélène Boucher
78280 Guyancourt
France
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]

Germany
Karlstrasse 49
78054 VS-Schwenningen
Germany
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

[e-mail]

Asia Pacific
16th Floor
Cheung Kong Center
2 Queen's Road Central
Hong Kong
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

[e-mail]

EMEA Sales
(Europe, Mid East, Africa)

[e-mail]
[e-mail]

EMEA Technical Support
[phone]/57

[e-mail]

Contents

Table of Contents

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

1.1 CoBox-FL ........................................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 CoBox-FL-IAP Device Server............................................................................ 1-2

1.2.1 Industrial Automation Protocols......................................................... 1-3

1.3 Network Protocols .............................................................................................. 1-4

1.3.1 Packing Algorithm.............................................................................. 1-4

1.3.2 IP Address........................................................................................... 1-4

1.3.3 Port Number........................................................................................ 1-4

1.4 Serial Interface.................................................................................................... 1-5

1.4.1 Channel 1 ............................................................................................ 1-5

1.4.2 Channel 2 ............................................................................................ 1-6

1.5 RJ-45 Ethernet Interface ..................................................................................... 1-6

1.6 RJ-45 Ethernet Connector................................................................................... 1-7

1.7 ST-Fiber Ethernet Connectors ............................................................................ 1-7

1.8 Serial Interface Cable.......................................................................................... 1-8

1.9 Network LEDs .................................................................................................... 1-8

1.10 Serial LEDs....................................................................................................... 1-9

1.11 Dimensions ..................................................................................................... 1-10

1.12 Product Information Label.............................................................................. 1-10

1.13 Software Support ............................................................................................ 1-10

1.14 Power Requirements ....................................................................................... 1-11

1.15 Technical Specifications ................................................................................. 1-12

2. Getting Started................................................................................................................. 2-1

2.1 Addresses and Port Number................................................................................ 2-1

2.1.1 Ethernet (MAC) Address .................................................................... 2-1

2.1.2 Internet Protocol (IP) Address ............................................................ 2-1

2.1.3 Port Number........................................................................................ 2-2

2.2 Physically Connecting the Unit .......................................................................... 2-2

2.3 Methods of Assigning the IP Address ................................................................ 2-3

2.3.1 DHCP.................................................................................................. 2-4

2.3.2 AutoIP................................................................................................. 2-4

2.4 DeviceInstaller .................................................................................................... 2-5

2.4.1 Install DeviceInstaller Software.......................................................... 2-5

CoBox-FL User Guide i

Contents

2.4.2 Assign IP Address and Network Class................................................2-6

2.4.3 Test the IP Address..............................................................................2-7

2.4.4 Add the Unit to the Manage List ......................................................... 2-8

2.4.5 Opening a Configuration Window ....................................................2-10

2.5 ARP and Telnet .................................................................................................2-11

2.6 Serial Port Login ...............................................................................................2-12

3. Configuring the Unit ........................................................................................................3-1

3.1 Configuring via Web Browser.............................................................................3-1

3.2 Using DeviceInstaller ..........................................................................................3-2

3.3 Web Manager Page .............................................................................................3-4

3.3.1 Unit Configuration ..............................................................................3-5

3.3.2 Server Properties ................................................................................. 3-6

3.3.3 Port Properties .....................................................................................3-7

3.3.4 Technical Support................................................................................3-9

3.3.5 Update Settings ...................................................................................3-9

3.4 Configuring via the Setup Mode Window.........................................................3-10

3.4.1 Using a Telnet Connection ................................................................ 3-10

3.4.2 Using the Serial Port..........................................................................3-12

3.5 Server Configuration (Network Configuration) ................................................3-12

3.5.1 IP Address ......................................................................................... 3-12

3.5.2 Set Gateway IP Address ....................................................................3-12

3.5.3 Netmask: Number of Bits for Host Part ............................................3-13

3.5.4 Change Telnet configuration password ............................................. 3-14

3.5.5 DHCP Naming ..................................................................................3-14

3.6 Channel 1 Configuration (Serial Port Parameters)............................................3-15

3.6.1 Baudrate ............................................................................................3-15

3.6.2 I/F (Interface) Mode ..........................................................................3-15

3.6.3 Flow...................................................................................................3-16

3.6.4 Port Number ......................................................................................3-16

3.6.5 Connect Mode ................................................................................... 3-17

3.6.6 Remote IP Address............................................................................3-20

3.6.7 Remote Port....................................................................................... 3-20

3.6.8 DisConnMode ...................................................................................3-20

3.6.9 Flush Mode (Buffer Flushing)...........................................................3-21

3.6.10 Pack Control....................................................................................3-22

3.6.11 DisConnTime (Inactivity Timeout)................................................. 3-23

3.6.12 Send Characters...............................................................................3-23

3.6.13 Telnet Terminal Type......................................................................3-23

3.6.14 Channel (Port) Password................................................................. 3-23

3.7 Expert Settings ..................................................................................................3-24

3.7.1 TCP Keepalive time in s....................................................................3-24

CoBox-FL User Guide

ii

Contents

3.8 Security Settings ............................................................................................... 3-24

3.8.1 Disable SNMP .................................................................................. 3-24

3.8.2 SNMP Community Name................................................................. 3-24

3.8.3 Disable Telnet Setup......................................................................... 3-25

3.8.4 Disable TFTP Firmware Upgrade..................................................... 3-25

3.8.5 Disable Port 77FE (Hex)................................................................... 3-25

3.8.6 Disable Web Server .......................................................................... 3-25

3.8.7 Enable Enhanced Password .............................................................. 3-25

3.9 Factory Defaults................................................................................................ 3-25

3.10 Exit Configuration Mode ................................................................................ 3-26

3.11 Get Configuration ........................................................................................... 3-26

3.12 Set Configuration............................................................................................ 3-27

4. Updating Protocol (Firmware) ....................................................................................... 4-1

4.1 Protocol Firmware .............................................................................................. 4-1

4.2 Reloading Protocol Firmware............................................................................. 4-1

4.2.1 Via DeviceInstaller ............................................................................. 4-2

4.2.2 Via TFTP ............................................................................................ 4-4

4.2.3 Via Another Unit ................................................................................ 4-5

4.2.4 Via the Serial Port............................................................................... 4-6

5. DeviceComm Manager .................................................................................................... 5-1

5.1 Installing DeviceComm Manager ....................................................................... 5-2

5.1.1 Install DeviceComm Manager ............................................................ 5-2

5.1.2 Setup ................................................................................................... 5-3

6. Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................... 6-1

6.1 Technical Support ............................................................................................... 6-1

6.1.1 Technical Support............................................................................... 6-1

7. Monitor Mode .................................................................................................................. 7-1

7.1 Monitor Mode..................................................................................................... 7-1

7.1.1 Entering Monitor Mode Via the Serial Port........................................ 7-1

7.1.2 Entering Monitor Mode Via the Network Port ................................... 7-1

7.1.3 Monitor Mode Commands.................................................................. 7-1

8. Network Configuration using UDP ................................................................................ 8-1

8.1 UDP Datagrams .................................................................................................. 8-1

8.2 Configuring Multiple Devices ............................................................................ 8-3

8.2.1 Acquiring a Valid Setup Record......................................................... 8-3

8.2.2 Sending a Setup Record...................................................................... 8-4

8.2.3 The Intel Hex Format.......................................................................... 8-5

8.2.4 Calculating the Checksum .................................................................. 8-6

8.2.5 Calculating the Two’s Complement ................................................... 8-6

CoBox-FL User Guide iii

Contents

8.3 Setup Records...................................................................................................... 8-7

8.3.1 Channel Parameters.............................................................................8-8

8.3.2 Interface Mode ....................................................................................8-9

8.3.3 Baud Rate ..........................................................................................8-10

8.3.4 Flow Control .....................................................................................8-10

8.3.5 Connect Mode ................................................................................... 8-11

8.3.6 Disconnect Mode...............................................................................8-12

8.3.7 Flush Mode (Buffer Flushing)...........................................................8-13

8.3.8 Pack Control......................................................................................8-13

8.4 IP Addresses...................................................................................................... 8-14

8.4.1 Network Portion ................................................................................8-14

8.4.2 Subnet Portion ................................................................................... 8-14

8.4.3 Host Portion.......................................................................................8-15

8.4.4 Network Address...............................................................................8-15

8.4.5 Broadcast Address.............................................................................8-15

8.4.6 Private IP Networks and the Internet.................................................8-16

8.4.7 Network RFCs...................................................................................8-16

9. Binary to Hex Conversion................................................................................................9-1

9.1 Connect Mode Options........................................................................................9-1

9.2 Disconnect Mode Options ................................................................................... 9-5

9.3 Flush Mode (Buffer Flushing) Options ...............................................................9-7

9.4 Interface Mode Options.....................................................................................9-13

9.5 Pack Control Options ........................................................................................9-14

10. IP Addresses..................................................................................................................10-1

10.1 Class A Network .............................................................................................10-1

10.2 Class B Network..............................................................................................10-1

10.3 Class C Network..............................................................................................10-1

10.4 Network Address.............................................................................................10-2

10.5 Broadcast Address...........................................................................................10-2

10.6 IP Netmask ......................................................................................................10-2

10.7 Private IP Networks and the Internet...............................................................10-3

10.8 Network RFCs.................................................................................................10-3

11. Glossary.........................................................................................................................11-1

CoBox-FL User Guide

iv

Contents

List of Figures

Figure 1 – CoBox-FL-IAP ..................................................................................................... 1-2

Figure 2 - RJ-45 Connector.................................................................................................... 1-7

Figure 3 – CoBox-FL Connected to Serial Device and Network .......................................... 2-2

Figure 4 – CD Main Window ................................................................................................ 2-5

Figure 5 - DeviceInstaller Window........................................................................................ 2-6

Figure 6 - Assign IP Address Window .................................................................................. 2-6

Figure 7 - Ping Device Window ............................................................................................ 2-7

Figure 8 - Search Network Window ...................................................................................... 2-8

Figure 9 - Devices in a Group................................................................................................ 2-9

Figure 10 - Device Management Window........................................................................... 2-10

Figure 11 - Lantronix Web-Manager..................................................................................... 3-4

Figure 12 - Server Properties Configuration on the Web Browser........................................ 3-6

Figure 13 - Setup Mode Window......................................................................................... 3-11

Figure 14 - Device Installer ................................................................................................... 4-2

Figure 15 - Search Network Window .................................................................................... 4-3

Figure 16 - Devices in a Group.............................................................................................. 4-3

Figure 17 - Upgrade Firmware .............................................................................................. 4-4

Figure 18 - TFTP Dialog Box................................................................................................ 4-5

Figure 19 – UDS/CoBox Main Window................................................................................ 5-2

Figure 20 - Sample Setup Record in Intel Hex Format.......................................................... 8-3

CoBox-FL User Guide v

Contents

List of Tables

Table 1 - Ethernet Interface Signals .......................................................................................1-7

Table 2 - CoBox-FL LED Functions..................................................................................... 1-9

Table 3 - Technical Specs.....................................................................................................1-12

Table 4 - Standard IP Network Netmasks ............................................................................3-13

Table 5 - Netmask Examples................................................................................................3-13

Table 6 - Interface Mode Options ........................................................................................3-15

Table 7 - Common Interface Mode Settings ........................................................................3-16

Table 8 - Flow Control Options............................................................................................3-16

Table 9 - Connect Mode Options .........................................................................................3-17

Table 10 - Manual Connection Address Example................................................................ 3-18

Table 11 - Modem Mode Commands...................................................................................3-19

Table 12 - Disconnect Mode Options...................................................................................3-20

Table 13 - Flush Mode Options............................................................................................ 3-21

Table 14 - Pack Control Options.......................................................................................... 3-22

Table 15 - Protocol Firmware.................................................................................................4-1

Table 16 - Problems and Error Messages...............................................................................6-2

Table 17 - Monitor Mode Commands ....................................................................................7-2

Table 18 -Command Response Codes.................................................................................... 7-2

Table 19 - UDP Configuration ...............................................................................................8-1

Table 20 - Block Types .......................................................................................................... 8-5

Table 21 - Setup Record Construction ...................................................................................8-7

Table 22 - Channel Parameters...............................................................................................8-8

Table 23 - Interface Mode Options ........................................................................................8-9

Table 24 - Common Interface Mode Settings ........................................................................8-9

Table 25 - Baud Rate Settings.............................................................................................. 8-10

Table 26 - Flow Control Options..........................................................................................8-10

Table 27 - Connect Mode Options .......................................................................................8-11

Table 28 - Disconnect Mode Options...................................................................................8-12

Table 29 - Flush Mode Options............................................................................................ 8-13

Table 30 - Pack Control Options.......................................................................................... 8-13

Table 31 - Network Portion of IP Address...........................................................................8-14

Table 32 - Available IP Addresses .......................................................................................8-14

Table 33 - Standard IP Network Netmasks ..........................................................................8-15

Table 34 - Netmask Examples..............................................................................................8-16

Table 35 - Binary to Hexadecimal Conversion Table ............................................................9-1

Table 36 - Connect Mode Options .........................................................................................9-2

Table 37 - Connect Mode Options for Modem Emulation.....................................................9-4

CoBox-FL User Guide

vi

Contents

Table 38 - Disconnect Mode Options .................................................................................... 9-5

Table 39 - Flush Mode Options ............................................................................................. 9-7

Table 40 - Interface Mode Options...................................................................................... 9-13

Table 41 - Pack Control Options ......................................................................................... 9-14

CoBox-FL User Guide vii

Introduction

11.. IInnttrroodduuccttiioonn

This manual describes the CoBox-FL family of Device Servers, including the CoBox-FL
Device Server and the CoBox-FL-IAP Device Server with Industrial Automation Protocols.

Most of the material in this manual applies to all of the CoBox-FL products. However, in
some cases there will be some features that apply to only one product. In those cases, a note
will explain the variation.

Note: In most cases CoBox-FL refers to CoBox-FL and CoBox-FL-IAP.

1.1 CoBox-FL

The CoBox-FL Device Server connects serial devices to Ethernet networks using the IP
protocol family (TCP for connection-oriented stream applications and UDP for datagram
applications). A few of the different types of serial devices supported are listed below:

• Time/Attendance Clocks and Terminals

• ATM Machines

• CNC Controllers

• Data Collection Devices

• Universal Power Supply (UPS) Management Units

• Telecommunications Equipment

• Data Display Devices

• Security Alarms and Access Control Devices

• Handheld Instruments

• Modems

The CoBox-FL connects these devices through a TCP data channel or through a Telnet
connection to computers or another Device Server. Datagrams can be sent by UDP.

The CoBox-FL supports RS-232, RS-422/485 through the DB-25F Channel 1 serial port. It
supports RS-232 through the DB-9M Channel 2 serial port. It supports 10Mb/s Ethernet
through an RJ-45 connector and through ST-Fiber connectors. It can be configured via HTTP,
SNMP, DHCP or Telnet. It contains a Flash ROM for easy software upgrades.

CoBox-FL User Guide 1-1

Introduction

1.2 CoBox-FL-IAP Device Server

Note: This section is for the CoBox-FL-IAP only.

The Lantronix Industrial Automation Platform (IAP) family of Device Servers allows a single
network and protocol to connect multiple serial devices from many vendors. IAP provides
the automation industry with a network-enabling solution using TCP/IP and standard Ethernet
networks that is vendor-independent.

By encapsulating serial data and transporting it over Ethernet, the Device Server allows
virtual serial links to be established over Ethernet and IP (TCP/IP, UDP/IP) networks. As a
result, limited distance, point-to-point, direct serial connections can be extended within the
plant, throughout the facility, or across the global enterprise. The following picture is one of
the Device Servers in the IAP family.

Figure 1 – CoBox-FL-IAP

Lantronix provides IAP Device Servers specifically designed for different industrial
environments.

• CoBox-DR1-IAP, with a DIN rail interface for harsh environments or alongside
controls instruments in electrical panels.

• CoBox-FL-IAP, with fiber connectivity for long cable runs or electrically hazardous
environments.

• UDS-10-IAP, a compact Device Server for use in less demanding environments.

CoBox-FL User Guide

1-2

Introduction

A few examples of attached devices are:

• PLCs

• AC/DC drives

• CNC systems

• Operator panels and message displays

• Process Controls

• Instrumentation

• Power monitoring equipment

• Scales and weighing systems

• Barcode scanners

• Label printers

• Most factory floor serial devices

1.2.1 Industrial Automation Protocols

IAP Device Servers, adapted to multiple factory environments, can unite any mixture of
equipment from industrial automation vendors into a single reliable pipeline. This new and
open infrastructure opens the way for data to flow in real time from all your plant devices up
to your IT layer.

IAP Device Servers are delivered with IAP Standard Tunneling protocol and can be loaded
with industrial communication protocols. The suite of protocols include DF1 (Rockwell
Automation) and Modbus (Schneider Electric). Where the IAP Standard Tunneling protocol
is limited to exclusive, standard ASCII device-to-device connections, the industrial protocols
offer connections to other devices that require special formatting or features simultaneously.

For information about using any of the industrial communication protocols, see the user
manuals on the software CD or our web site. Protocol firmware files are also contained on the
CD and new versions are available from the Lantronix web site.

You can set up the unit using the serial port, or remotely over Ethernet using Telnet or a web
browser. The CD that comes with your Device Server includes DeviceInstaller, a Windows
based configuration software that simplifies the process of installing protocols and
configuring them for use with attached devices. IAP Device Servers use Flash memory for
maintenance-free, non-volatile storage which allows for fast system upgrades.

CoBox-FL User Guide 1-3

Introduction

1.3 Network Protocols

Note: CoBox-FL refers to CoBox-FL and CoBox-FL-IAP except where noted.

The CoBox-FL uses TCP/IP protocols for network communication. The supported standards
are: ARP, UDP, TCP, ICMP, Telnet, TFTP, DHCP, AutoIP, and SNMP. For transparent
connections, TCP/IP (binary stream) or Telnet protocols are used. Firmware upgrades can be
made with the TFTP protocol.

The IP (Internet Protocol) protocol defines addressing, routing, and data-block handling over
the network. The TCP (transmission control protocol) assures that no data is lost or
duplicated, and that everything sent into the connection on one side arrives at the target
exactly as it was sent.

For typical datagram applications where devices interact with others without maintaining a
point-to-point connection, UDP datagram is used.

1.3.1 Packing Algorithm

The two available packet algorithms (which define how and when packets are sent to the
network) are software selectable. The standard algorithm is optimized for applications where
CoBox-FL is used in a local environment, allowing for very small delays for single characters
while trying to keep the packet count low. The alternate packing algorithm minimizes the
packet count on the network and is especially useful for applications in routed Wide Area
Networks. Various parameters can be set in this mode to economize the serial data stream.

1.3.2 IP Address

Every active device connected to the TCP/IP network must have a unique IP address. This IP
address is used to reference a specific device, for example, to build a connection to CoBox­FL’s serial port. See Appendix A for a complete description of IP Addressing.

1.3.3 Port Number

A destination IP address and a port number define every TCP connection and every UDP
datagram. A port number is necessary to address an application or a channel on a network
host. The port number can be compared to an extension on a PBX system.

A Telnet application (login to a host with an ASCII terminal) is commonly assigned TCP port
number 23. More than one Telnet connection can be established to one host using the Telnet
port; however, the other peer IP address/port number combinations must be different.

In the CoBox-FL, a port number can be configured on the channel (port). The CoBox-FL uses
this port number for outgoing messages and incoming connections, or UDP datagrams, which
are addressed to its port number. Port 9999 (decimal) is used for remote configuration.

CoBox-FL User Guide

1-4

Introduction

1

1.4 Serial Interface

The CoBox-FL has two serial ports. CH 1 uses a DB-25F (DCE) connector and supports RS­232, RS-422/485. CH 2 uses a DB-9 connector and supports RS-232 only. It supports 10Mb/s
Ethernet through the RJ-45 (10BASE-T) connector or the ST-Fiber (10BASE-FL). It can be
configured via HTTP, SNMP, DHCP or Telnet. It contains a Flash ROM for easy software
upgrades.

1

H

e

t

a

t

S

2

H

C

C

DB-9 Serial Port

(DTE)

LEDs

DB-25 Serial Port

(DCE)

1.4.1 Channel 1

The CoBox-FL Channel 1 is a female DB-25F supporting RS-232C, RS-485, or RS-422 DCE
serial interface. The default serial port settings are 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1
stop bit.

14

)

13

TX+ (out)
TX- (out)

RS-232/485

DTR (input)
RX+ (in)
RX- (in)

25

TX (input)
RX (output)
RTS (i nput

CTS (output)

DSR (output)

GND
DCD (output)
Reg. +5VDC

(Note 1)

Reg. +9-30VDC

(Note 1)

Note 1: The Device Server can alternately be powered up via the serial port using one of
these pins.

Note 2: The minus sign (-) is sometimes shown as A (TXA), and the plus sign is sometimes
shown as B (TXB)

(Note 2)

DB-25F

(Note 2)

For RS-485 2-wire functionality, connect pin 14 to 21, and connect pin 15 to 22.

CoBox-FL User Guide 1-5

Introduction

5

1.4.2 Channel 2

The CoBox-FL Channel 2 is a male DB-9M supporting RS-232C DTE serial interface.

1

9

CTSA (in)
RTSA (out)

6

GND

TRA (out)

TXA (out)

RXA(in)

DCDA (in)

1.5 RJ-45 Ethernet Interface

The CoBox-FL’s back panel contains a 9-30V AC/DC power plug, four LEDs, an ST-Fiber
(10BASE-FL) Ethernet port, and an RJ-45 (10BASE-T) Ethernet port. Both Ethernet ports
support 10 Mbps and are auto detecting.

V

0

3

-

9

C

D

/

C

A

L

T

-

E

S

A

B

0

1

F

-

E

S

A

B

0

1

x

T

G

x

T

L

x

R

o

C

x

R

9-30V AC/DC

Power

10BASE-T

Ethernet Port

10BASE-FL

Ethernet Port

LEDs

Note: Do not attempt to connect both Ethernet ports simultaneously. If one is used, the other
is disabled.

CoBox-FL User Guide

1-6

Introduction

1.6 RJ-45 Ethernet Connector

The next drawing shows a typical RJ-45 connector. The color is not standard but very typical
of an Ethernet
view is from the end of the

Orange + White
Orange
Green + White
Blue
Blue + White
Green
Brown + White
Brown

Figure 2 - RJ-45 Connector

Table 1 - Ethernet Interface Signals

Signal Name DIR PIN Primary Function

TX+ Out 1 Transmit Data +
TX- Out 2 Transmit Data ­RX+ In 3 Differential Ethernet Receive Data +
RX- In 6 Differential Ethernet Receive Data -

Patch cable. Pin 1 is located at the top of the connector (Orange + White). The

connector.

1 8

1 - TX+
2 - TX­3 - RX+
6 - RX-

View from
Connector End

Ethernet

(RJ45)

1.7 ST-Fiber Ethernet Connectors

Tx

The CoBox-FL also supports 10Mbit Ethernet through an ST-Fiber Ethernet connector.

Note: Do not attempt to connect both Ethernet ports simultaneously. If one is used, the other
is disabled.

CoBox-FL User Guide 1-7

Rx

Introduction

13

1 terface.8 Serial In Cable

The CoBox-FL can be conn l or Ethernet device for setup and configuration.
T RS l

he serial device can be -232 or RS-485/422. The following diagram shows a typica

i -2 DB-25

nterface cable for the RS 32 Serial interface. The UDS-M-SBC is an optional male

5

block con

GND

4

3

TXD

2

RXD

1

to RS-485 screw nector.

DTR

9

CTS

8

RTS

7
6

DSR

9-Pin, FEMALEDTE,

1 ork LED

.9 Netw s

ected to a seria

5

RX(in)

TX(in)

4
3

2

1

DCE, 25-Pin, MALE

25

20

6

14

The following table explains the function of the four network LEDs.

9-30V

AC/DC

Tx

GL

Rx Co

LED Meaning

GL (Good Link) rt is connected to Lights solid green to indicate network po
Tx (Network Transmit) ckets are transmitting. Blinks yellow to indicate network pa

Rx (Network Receive) rk packets are receiving. Blinks yellow to indicate netwo
Co (Collision) Blinks red to indicate network collisions.

CoBox-FL User Guide

1-8

the network.

Introduction

1.10 Serial LEDs

Simultaneously lit red and green LEDs means something is wrong. If the red LED is lit or
blinking, count the number of times the green LED blinks betwee
indicate which fault condition exists. The following table explains
serial LEDs.

1

H

e

t

a

t

S

2

H

C

C

n its pauses. Blink patterns

the functions of the three

LEDs

Table 2 - CoBox-FL LED Functions

LED Meaning

GREEN

CH1

YELLOW

CH2

RED

Diagnostic

Lights solid green to indica
connection to or from the network
Blinks green to indicate that
from the network.
Lights solid yellow to indi
to or from the network.
Blinks yellow to indicate Channel 2 does have a connection to or
from the network.
Blinks or lights solid red in combination with the green (Channel 1)
LED to indicate diagnostics and error detection.

Red solid, g
1x: EPROM

reen (Channel 1) blinking:

checksum error
2x: RAM error
3x: Token Ring error
4x: EEPROM checksum error
5x: Duplicated IP address on the network

Red blinking, green (Channel 1) blinking:
4x: Faulty network connection
5x: No DHCP response received

te that Channel 1 does not have a

.

Channel 1 does have a connection to r

o

cate Channel 2 does not have a connection

CoBox-FL User Guide 1-9

Introduction

1.11 Dimensions

The CoBox-FL dimensions are shown in the following drawing.

Note: For CoBox-FL and CoBox-FL-IAP.

)4.46 in. (11.34 cm

6.5 in. (16.51 cm)

1.39 in. (3.55 cm)

30V

-

9

C

D

/

C

A

L

T

-

E

S

A

B

0

1

L

F

-

E

S

A

B

10
T

x

R

x

G

x

T

o

C

x

R

Removable Guard

1.12 Product Information Label

The product information label contains important information about your specific unit.

COBOX-FL-IAP
00-20-4A-52-68-EF
Rev. A11
Made in USA

S/N:5226863

Serial Number
Part Number
MAC ID
Revision

1.13 Software Support

DeviceInstaller is a powerful software utility for configuring device servers from a network

connection. For more information, see Using DeviceInstaller on page 3-2.

Lantronix DeviceComm Manager is a Windows based COM port redirector software utility.
Its function is to redirect customer application data destined for a local serial (COM) port to
the PC’s network port. Rather than going out the local port, the data is transmitted across the

Ethernet network port using the TCP/IP protocol. For more information, see DeviceComm
Manager on page 5-1.

CoBox-FL User Guide

1-10

Introduction

1.14 Power Requirements

The CoBox-FL is shipped with a 12VDC, 0.8A, 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz power supply, but

VAC/DC and 30V AC/DC can be used. any power supply between 9

V

0

3

-

9

C

D

/

C

A

1

B

0

1

x

T

L

F

-

E

S

A

x

R

T

-

E

S

A

B

0

L

G

x

T

o

C

x

R

9-30V AC/DC

Power

CoBox-FL User Guide 1-11

Introduction

1.15 Technical Specifications

Table 3 - Technical Specs

Category Description

CPU, Memory AMD 188ES CPU, 20MHz clo ck, 128kByte RAM
Flash, EPROM 512kByte Flash PROM

Installable Serial
Protocols
Serial Interface DB-25F, RS-232C or RS-4

Power Supply External adapter for 9-30V AC/DC, 3 Watts Max
Dimensions 16.51 cm (6.5 in) , 11.34 cm (4.46 in) , 3.55 cm (1.39 in)
Weight .48 kg (1.10 lbs)
Temperature Operating range: 5° to +50° C (41to122° F)

Humidity 10% to 90% RH, no n-conden sing, 40% to 60% recommended
Case Metal case with mounting flanges.
Protocols Supported Auto IP, ARP, UDP/IP, TCP/IP, Telnet, ICMP, SNMP, DHCP,

Network Interface RJ-45 10BASE-T or ST-Fiber 10BASE-FL
Serial Line Formats Characters: 7 or 8 data bits

Modem Control DTR, DCD, CTS, RTS, DSR
Flow Control CTS/RTS (hardware)

Management Internal web server (Standard Tunneling only)

System Software Windows® 95/98/ME/NT/2000 based configuration software
LEDs Network Transmit, Network Receive, Good Link, Collisions, Channel

Compatibility Ethernet: Version 2.0/IEEE 802.3

Standard Tunnel (CoBox-F
FL-IAP), DF1 (CoBox-FL-IAP)

DB-9M, RS-232C (DTE pin
Baud Rate selectable from

Max temperature change per hour: 20° C (36° F)
Storage range: -40° to +66° C (-40 to 151° F)

BOOTP, TFTP, and HTTP

Stop bits: 1,2
Parity: odd, even, none

XON/XOFF (software)
SNMP (read only)

Serial login
Telnet login

1 Status, Channel 2 Status, Diagnostic

L, and CoBox-FL-IAP), Modbus (CoBox-

22/485 (DCE pinout)

out)

300bps to 115Kbps

CoBox-FL User Guide

1-12

Getting Started

22.. GGeettttiinngg SSttaarrtteedd

This section describes all the procedures for configuring your unit. For a short version, see
the Quick Start Guide. Go to the Lantronix web site for the latest firmware and release notes.

CoBox-FL comes with Standard Tunnel Protocol and the CoBox-FL-IAP comes with the IAP
Standard Tunnel Protocol. Both versions are similar but cannot be interchanged. Standard
Tunneling is a serial communications protocol used by most Lantronix Device Servers. It can
be configured to Ethernet-enable most serial devices such as barcode scanners, weigh scales,
operator panels, data access devices, alpha numeric displays, and thousands of intelligent

serial devices. For CoBox-FL-IAP users, see Industrial Automation Protocols on page 1-3

Loading industrial protocols to a CoBox-FL-IAP, such as IAP Modbus Bridge, may remove
the web pages and change the configure dialogs. See the user manuals on individual protocols
for protocol specific settings and configuration dialogs. Protocol manuals are found on the
software CD. This section describes the setup and configuration dialogs for the Standard
Tunnel Protocol.

Note: The following information is based on the condition that a CoBox-FL is loaded with
Standard Tunnel Protocol. The CoBox-FL-IAP with IAP Standard Tunnel Protocol may have
different options available.

2.1 Addresses and Port Number

2.1.1 Ethernet (MAC) Address

The Ethernet address is also referred to as the hardware address or the MAC address. The
first three bytes of the Ethernet Address are fixed and read 00-20-4A, identifying the unit as a
Lantronix product. The fourth, fifth, and sixth bytes are unique numbers assigned to each
unit.

00-20-4A-21-18-17 or 00:20:4A:21:18:17

2.1.2 Internet Protocol (IP) Address

Every device connected to an IP network must have a unique IP address. This address is used
to reference the specific unit.

CoBox-FL User Guide 2-1

Getting Started

2.1.3 Port Number

Every TCP connection and every UDP datagram is defined by a destination IP address and a
port number. For example, a Telnet application commonly uses port number 23. A port
number is similar to an extension on a PBX system.

The unit 's serial channel (port) can be associated with a specific TCP/UDP port number. Port
number 9999 is reserved for access to the unit's Setup (configuration) Mode window.

2.2 Physically Connecting the Unit

The following diagram shows a typical hardware configuration for the CoBox-FL. Use one

of the cables described in Serial Interface Cable on page 1-8 to connect a PC COM port to

the CoBox-FL.

Ethernet

RS-232

V

0

3

-

9

C

D

/

C

A

L

T

-

G

E

S

A

B

0

1

Ethernet

x

T

L

F

-

E

S

A

B

0

1

x

R

x

T

x

R

9-30V AC/DC

o

C

Figure 3 – CoBox-FL Connected to Serial Device and Network

1. Connect a serial device to your unit. See Serial Interface Cable on page 1-8 for more

information about cable and connector specifications.

2. Connect an Ethernet cable to one of the Ethernet ports.

3. Supply power to your unit using a 9-30V AC/DC source.

Note: The required input voltage is 9-30V AC/DC (3 W maximum).

4. Supply power to the serial device.

Note: Connecting a device to an active Ethernet network can disrupt communications on the
network. Make sure the device is configured for your application before connecting to an
active network.

CoBox-FL User Guide

2-2

Getting Started

2.3 Methods of Assigning the IP Address

The unit's IP address must be configured before a network connection is available. You have
the following options for assigning an IP to your unit:

Method Description

DHCP A DHCP server automatically assigns the IP address and network

settings. See
DeviceInstaller
(Recommended)

ARP and Telnet You manually assign the IP address and other network settings at a

AutoIP This automatic method is appropriate when you have a small group of

Serial Port Login You initially configure the unit through a serial connection. See Serial

You manually assign the IP address using a graphical user interface

(GUI) on a PC attached to a network. See DeviceInstaller on page 2-5.

command prompt using a UNIX or Windows-based system. Only one

person at a time can be logged into the configuration port (port 9999).

This eliminates the possibility of several people simultaneously

attempting to configure the unit. See

hosts rather than a large network. This method allows the hosts to

negotiate with each other and assign addresses, in effect creating a

small network. See

Port Login on page 2-12.

DHCP on page 2-4.

ARP and Telnet on page 2-11.

AutoIP on page 2-4.

These methods are described in the remaining sections of this chapter.

Note: In most installations, a fixed IP address is desirable. The systems administrator
generally provides the IP address. Obtain the following information before starting to set up
your unit:
IP Address: ___ ___ ___ ___
Subnet Mask: ___ ___ ___ ___
Gateway: ___ ___ ___ ___

CoBox-FL User Guide 2-3

Getting Started

2.3.1 DHCP

The unit ships with a default IP address of 0.0.0.0, which automatically enables DHCP.

Provided a DHCP server exists on the network, it will assign the unit an IP address, gateway
address, and subnet mask when the unit boots up. The CoBox-FL has acquired an IP address
if the red LED stops flashing and the green GL LED is on continuously. (If no DHCP server
exists, the unit responds with a diagnostic error: the red Diagnostic LED blinks continuously,
and the green GL LED blinks five times. This blinking only continues for about 5 seconds.)

You can use the DeviceInstaller software to search the network for the IP your unit has been

assigned by the DHCP server and add it to the managed list. See Add the Unit to the Manage

List later in this chapter.
Note: This DHCP address will not appear in the unit’s standard configuration screens. You

can determine your unit’s DHCP-assigned IP address from the DHCP server, or in Monitor
Mode. When you enter Monitor Mode from the serial port with network connection enabled
and issue the NC (Network Communication) command, you will see the unit’s IP
configuration.

2.3.2 AutoIP

The unit ships with a default IP address of 0.0.0.0, which automatically enables Auto IP
within the unit. AutoIP is an alternative to DHCP that allows hosts to automatically obtain an
IP address in smaller networks that may not have a DHCP server. A range of IP addresses
(from 169.254.0.1 to 169.254.255.254) has been explicitly reserved for AutoIP-enabled
devices. The range of Auto IP addresses is not to be used over the Internet.

If your unit cannot find a DHCP server, and you have not manually assigned an IP address to
it, the unit automatically selects an address from the AutoIP reserved range. Then, your unit
sends out a (ARP) request to other nodes on the same network to see whether the selected
address is being used.

• If the selected address is not in use, then the unit uses it for local subnet communication. 

• If another device is using the selected IP address, the unit selects another address from the

AutoIP range and reboots itself. After reboot, the unit sends out another ARP request to see if
the selected address is in use, and so on.

AutoIP is not intended to replace DHCP. The unit will continue to look for a DHCP server on
the network. If a DHCP server is found, the unit will switch to the DHCP server-provided
address and reboot.

Note: If a DHCP server is found, but it denies the request for an IP address, the unit does not
attach to the network, but waits and retries.

AutoIP can be disabled by setting the unit’s IP address to 0.0.1.0. This setting enables DHCP
but disables AutoIP.

CoBox-FL User Guide

2-4