Lantronix MSS4, MSS4-D, MSS4-S, MSS4-DFP, MSS4-SFP Installation Manual
MSSInstallationGuide
ForMSS4
DeviceServers
The information in this guide may change without notice. The manufacturer assumes no
responsibility for any errors which may appear in this guide.
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
Corporation.
Copyright 2001, 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.
The revision date for this manual is August 2003
Part Number: 900-224
Rev. E
WARNING
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.
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.
Changes or modifications to this device not explicitly approved by Lantronix will void the user's
authority to operate this device.
Contents
1: Introduction....................................................................................................1-1
Model Overview ........................................................................................................................... 1-1
MSS Features................................................................................................................................ 1-1
TCP/IP Support............................................................................................................................. 1-3
Terms ............................................................................................................................................ 1-3
Manual Conventions..................................................................................................................... 1-3
About This Manual....................................................................................................................... 1-4
2: Installation......................................................................................................2-1
MSS4 Components ....................................................................................................................... 2-1
MSS4-D/DFP Front Panel............................................................................................... 2-1
MSS4-S/SFP Front Panel................................................................................................. 2-2
MSS4 Side Panel ............................................................................................................. 2-2
MSS4 LEDs..................................................................................................................... 2-2
Installing in a Wired Network....................................................................................................... 2-3
Installing PC Cards....................................................................................................................... 2-5
Installing an 802.11 Card.................................................................................................2-5
Installing an ATA Flash Card.......................................................................................... 2-6
Installing a Modem Card ................................................................................................. 2-7
3: Getting Started ..............................................................................................3-1
System Passwords......................................................................................................................... 3-1
Privileged Password......................................................................................................... 3-1
Login Passwords.............................................................................................................. 3-2
IP Address Configuration .............................................................................................................3-3
Using EZWebCon............................................................................................................3-3
Using ARP and Ping........................................................................................................ 3-3
Using a DHCP, BOOTP, or RARP Reply....................................................................... 3-4
Using the Serial Console.................................................................................................. 3-4
Incoming Logins........................................................................................................................... 3-5
TCP/IP Logins ................................................................................................................. 3-5
Serial Port Logins ............................................................................................................ 3-6
Remote Console Logins...................................................................................................3-6
Outbound Connections.................................................................................................................. 3-7
Logout........................................................................................................................................... 3-7
4: Configuration .................................................................................................4-1
Rebooting the MSS....................................................................................................................... 4-1
Normal Reboot................................................................................................................. 4-1
Factory Defaults............................................................................................................... 4-1
TCP/IP Configuration................................................................................................................... 4-2
IP Address........................................................................................................................4-2
Subnet Mask .................................................................................................................... 4-2
Gateway........................................................................................................................... 4-2
Name Server .................................................................................................................... 4-3
IP Security........................................................................................................................ 4-3
i
WINS............................................................................................................................... 4-4
SNMP............................................................................................................................... 4-4
RS-485 Configuration................................................................................................................... 4-5
Two-wire Mode ............................................................................................................... 4-6
Four-wire Mode............................................................................................................... 4-6
Termination...................................................................................................................... 4-7
RS-422 Networking......................................................................................................... 4-7
Serial Port Configuration.............................................................................................................. 4-7
Access Mode....................................................................................................................4-8
Autostart........................................................................................................................... 4-8
Serial Data........................................................................................................................ 4-9
Baud Rate......................................................................................................................... 4-9
Character Size, Parity, and Stop Bits............................................................................. 4-10
Flow Control.................................................................................................................. 4-10
Modems and Modem Signaling..................................................................................... 4-10
Logouts .......................................................................................................................... 4-12
Preferred Port Host ........................................................................................................ 4-12
Dedicated Port Host....................................................................................................... 4-12
802.11 Configuration.................................................................................................................. 4-13
802.11 Terms................................................................................................................. 4-13
Enabling 802.11 Networking......................................................................................... 4-14
Region............................................................................................................................ 4-14
MAC Address................................................................................................................ 4-14
Extended Service Set ID (ESSID)................................................................................. 4-15
Network Mode............................................................................................................... 4-15
Channel.......................................................................................................................... 4-15
WEP............................................................................................................................... 4-16
Formatting an ATA Flash Card ................................................................................................. 4-17
Modem Cards.............................................................................................................................. 4-17
Incoming Calls............................................................................................................... 4-17
Outgoing Calls............................................................................................................... 4-17
5: Using the MSS ................................................................................................ 5-1
Incoming Connections.................................................................................................................. 5-1
Socket Connections.......................................................................................................... 5-1
Host Applications ............................................................................................................ 5-2
Code Examples................................................................................................................ 5-2
Interactive Connections ................................................................................................................ 5-2
Outgoing Connections ..................................................................................................... 5-2
Session Control................................................................................................................ 5-3
Status Displays................................................................................................................. 5-5
Disk Management......................................................................................................................... 5-6
Flash Disk........................................................................................................................ 5-6
ATA Flash Cards ............................................................................................................ 5-7
SDK ................................................................................................................................. 5-7
Encrypted Sessions ....................................................................................................................... 5-7
Serial Tunnel................................................................................................................................. 5-8
TCP Configuration........................................................................................................... 5-8
UDP Configuration.......................................................................................................... 5-9
Multihost Mode............................................................................................................................. 5-9
ii
Enabling Multihost Mode................................................................................................ 5-9
Adding Hosts ................................................................................................................. 5-10
Removing Hosts............................................................................................................. 5-10
Modem Emulation Mode............................................................................................................ 5-10
Modem Mode Commands ............................................................................................. 5-11
Wiring Requirements..................................................................................................... 5-12
COM Port Redirector.................................................................................................................. 5-12
A: Contact Information .......................................................................................A-1
Reporting Problems ..................................................................................................................... A-1
Full Contact Information.............................................................................................................. A-1
B: Troubleshooting .............................................................................................B-1
Power-up Troubleshooting............................................................................................................B-1
DHCP Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................B-2
BOOTP Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................B-3
RARP Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................B-3
Modem Configuration Checklist...................................................................................................B-4
Entering Commands at the Boot Prompt......................................................................................B-4
C: Pinouts ...........................................................................................................C-1
Ethernet Connectors......................................................................................................................C-1
Fiber Link Ethernet .........................................................................................................C-1
MSS4 Serial Connectors...............................................................................................................C-1
Screw Terminal Block.....................................................................................................C-1
DB9 Connectors...............................................................................................................C-2
MSS4 PC Card Slots.....................................................................................................................C-3
MSS4 Power Connectors..............................................................................................................C-3
Power Jack.......................................................................................................................C-3
Screw Block Power..........................................................................................................C-4
D: Updating Software........................................................................................ D-1
Obtaining Software...................................................................................................................... D-1
Via the Web.................................................................................................................... D-1
Reloading Software...................................................................................................................... D-1
Reloading Sequence........................................................................................................ D-1
Troubleshooting Flash ROM Updates......................................................................................... D-3
E: Specifications .................................................................................................E-1
Power Specifications.....................................................................................................................E-1
MSS4 Screw Terminal Power..........................................................................................E-1
MSS4-D/-S Adaptor ........................................................................................................E-1
MSS4-DFP/-SFP Adaptor................................................................................................E-1
Environmental Information...........................................................................................................E-1
Temperature Limitations..................................................................................................E-1
Relative Humidity Limitations ........................................................................................E-2
Altitude Limitations.........................................................................................................E-2
iii
Warranty Statement
Declaration of Conformity
Index
iv
1: Introduction
The Lantronix MSS family of Device Servers allows you to network-enable a variety of serial devices that
were not originally designed to be networked: personal computers, terminals, modems, industrial
machinery, and more. This capability brings the advantages of remote management and data accessibility
to thousands of serial devices.
The MSS4 offers a solution for almost every networking need. All MSS4 models provide four serial ports,
which are capable of RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 communications, and a 10/100BASE-T Ethernet port.
In addition, certain models of the MSS4 include a 100BASE-FX fiber link Ethernet port and two PC card
slots. The slots can be used for 802.11 wireless Ethernet, flash storage, and modem cards.
Note:
For a current list of supported PC card technologies, please check the Lantronix Web
site, www.lantronix.com.
Parts of this manual assume knowledge of the IEEE 802.11 Standard governing wireless networking. If you
are not familiar with wireless networking concepts and implementation, please refer to the Standard or the
documentation that came with your wireless PC card.
Throughout this manual, the MSS4 may be referred to as the MSS or as the Server .
Model Overview
There are four MSS4 models, designated as -D, -S, -DFP, and -SFP. The models are differentiated by
whether or not they have a DB9 serial connector, screw terminal blocks, PC card slots, and fiber link
Ethernet.
Table 1-1: MSS4 Models At-A-Glance
-D
Feature
DB9 Serial Ports 4040
Screw Terminal Ports 0404
PC Card Slots 0022
Fiber Link Ethernet
(100BASE-FX)
MSS4
No No Yes Yes
MSS4
-S
MSS4
-DFP
MSS4
-SFP
MSS Features
TCP/IP and UNIX Compatibility
The MSS supports a variety of TCP/IP features, including Telnet, Rlogin, UDP, DNS, SNMP, WINS,
FTP, DHCP, BOOTP, RARP, and HTTP.
Connectivity
The MSS can connect serial devices directly to a 10/100BASE-T or 100BASE-FX wired Ethernet
network or an 802.11 wireless Ethernet network.
1-1
Introduction MSS Features
Ease of Use
The MSS4 has a simple but powerful command interface for both users and system managers. The
MSS Local mode supports command line editing and command line recall. An extensive Help facility
is included.
The EZWebCon utility (provided on the CD-ROM) allows you to configure the MSS from any host
machine running the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). It also allows remote host logins into the MSS,
which are similar to Telnet logins.
The Lantronix ThinWeb Manager, a set of HTML pages stored on the MSS, allows you to configure
server information via a JavaScript-enabled web browser. For more information, see Web Browser
Login and Configuration on page 3-5.
Remote Configuration
The MSS can be logged into and remotely configured via a network login, a Telnet login to the remote
console port, EZWebCon, or a web browser connection to the MSS’s internal HTTP server.
Context-Sensitive Help
Context-sensitive on-line help is available at any time. You may type Help by itself for overall help,
Help <command> for help on a specific command, or a partial command line followed by a question
mark for help on what is appropriate at that point.
Note:
See the MSS Reference Manual for more information.
Reloadable Operating Software
The MSS stores its operating code in Flash ROM, which means that it does not have to download code
at boot time. If necessary, you can upgrade the MSS’s operating code to support additional features
as newer code becomes available. Also, you can configure the MSS to request a downloaded
configuration file at boot time.
Security
The MSS includes several configurable security features:
Automatic session logouts when a port is disconnected or a device is turned off.
Password protection for privileges, ports, services, maintenance commands, and the remote
console.
An IP security table, which allows the MSS manager to restrict incoming and outgoing TCP/IP
connections to certain ports and hosts. This allows managers to restrict MSS access to a particular
local network segment or host.
Diagnostics
Power-up and interactive diagnostics help system managers troubleshoot network and serial line
problems.
SDK Support
The MSS supports the Lantronix Software Developer Kit (SDK), which allows users to customize the
MSS and add functionality. For more information about the SDK, please contact Lantronix directly.
Note:
The SDK does not allow users to configure custom PC card support.
1-2
Introduction TCP/IP Support
TCP/IP Support
The MSS supports the TCP/IP network protocol. A network protocol is a method of communicating over
Ethernet. The protocol specifies a certain arrangement of data in the Ethernet packets, and provides different
services for its users.
TCP/IP support includes Telnet, Rlogin, UDP, DNS, and WINS. The Telnet terminal protocol is an easyto-use interface that creates terminal connections to any network host supporting Telnet. Rlogin is a
protocol that allows users to initiate a TCP/IP login session. UDP (User Datagram Protocol) is a
connectionless protocol that results in smaller packet headers, no session overhead, and the ability to send
to multiple hosts. The MSS also supports the use of Domain Name Servers (DNS), allowing a network
nameserver to translate text node names into numeric IP addresses. For WINS support, the MSS can be
configured to announce itself as a WINS node.
The MSS also implements basic Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) functionality. SNMP
commands enable users, usually system administrators, to get information from and control other nodes on
a local area network (LAN), and respond to queries from other network hosts. The MSS allows
configuration of one community name with read/write access. Instructions for SNMP configuration are
available in the
SNMP
section of this guide
, page 4-4
.
Terms
The following terms are used throughout this manual.
Host
Local Mode
Node
Server/server
Session
A computer attached to the network. The term host is generally used
to denote interactive computers, or computers that people can log into.
The MSS user interface. It is used to issue configuration and session
management commands and to establish connections. When in Local
mode, users will see a Local> prompt.
Any intelligent device directly connected to the Ethernet network such
as a host, a printer, or a terminal server. All nodes have their own
Ethernet addresses. The MSS is a node. Devices connected to the MSS
are not nodes.
Server, when capitalized, refers to your Lantronix MSS server
product. When not capitalized, it refers to a generic network server
machine.
A logical connection to a service. A typical session is a terminal
connected to a host through the server.
Manual Conventions
Commands are always printed in bold. Variables are printed within brackets [ ]. Commas are used to
separate more than one variable, whereas a dash is used to indicate a range of variables. For example:
Change Port Autobaud
Change Port 2,4 Autobaud applies to ports 2 and 4
Change Port 2-4 Autobaud applies to the ports 2, 3, and 4
Note:
The Port and Server keywords are missing from the command names listed in the MSS
Reference Manual. For example, Change Server Bootgateway is listed as Change
Bootgateway.
applies to the current port
1-3
Introduction About This Manual
About This Manual
The rest of this documentation is divided into chapters as follows:
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
chapter in its entirety, and be sure to configure the required items.
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
applications. Read this chapter to get the most out of using your MSS.
Appendices include Contact Information, Troubleshooting, Pinouts, Updating Software, and Specifications.
Read them as necessary.
The comprehensive Index can be used to find specific information.
The MSS Reference Manual, located on the CD-ROM in PDF format, provides the full MSS family
command set.
Installation
,
Getting Started
,
Configuration
,
Using the MSS
,
, explains the MSS connectors and the installation process.
, contains configuration information to get the unit up and running. Read this
, contains additional configuration information.
, contains information about how the MSS can be used in different
1-4
2: Installation
This chapter covers the physical installation of the MSS in a wired or wireless Ethernet network. If you are
installing the MSS for the first time, you must either attach a terminal to one of the serial ports or connect
the MSS to a wired Ethernet network so you can configure the proper 802.11 settings for wireless
networking.
In addition, this chapter explains:
The components of all MSS4 models, including front panel, back panel, and LEDs (see MSS4
Components on page 2-1).
How to install the MSS4 in a wired networking environment (see Installing in a Wired Network on page
2-3
).
How to install an 802.11 card in the MSS4 for use in a wireless networking environment (see Installing
an 802.11 Card on page 2-5
How to install an ATA Flash card (Installing an ATA Flash Card on page 2-6).
How to install a modem card (Installing a Modem Card on page 2-7).
Basic knowledge of networking installation is assumed. Read this chapter completely before continuing.
).
MSS4 Components
There are currently four different models of the MSS4. The following sections will discuss the specific
components for each model. The LEDs are identical across all models.
MSS4-D/DFP Front Panel
The MSS4-D and MSS4-DFP front panels have four DB9 serial port connectors and an RJ45 Ethernet
connector. The MSS4-DFP also has a 100BASE-FX fiber link Ethernet connector.
Figure 2-1: MSS4-D/DFP Front Panel
Serial1
Serial2
Serial3
Serial4
100BASE-FX
Fiber
Link
Ethernet
(-DFP only)
10/100BaseT
RJ45
Ethernet
Por t
PCC1
PCC2
Link
Serial 1
OK
Console
DB9 Serial
Console Port
Serial 2 Serial 3 Serial 4
DB9 Serial Ports
2-1
Installation MSS4 Components
MSS4-S/SFP Front Panel
The MSS4-S and MSS4-SFP front panels have four screw terminal blocks and an RJ45 Ethernet connector.
The MSS4-SFP also has a 100BASE-FX fiber link Ethernet connector.
Figure 2-2: MSS4-S/SFP Front Panel
Serial1
Serial2
Serial3
Serial4
100BASE-FX
Fiber
Link
Ethernet
10/100BaseT
RJ45
Ethernet
Por t
PCC1
PCC2
Link
Serial 1
OK
Console
Screw Terminal
Block (Console)
Serial 2 Serial 3 Serial 4
Screw Terminal Blocks
(-SFP only)
MSS4 Side Panel
All models include a reset button, and two power connectors. The MSS4-DFP and -SFP side panels also
have two PC card slots. The following figure shows an MSS side panel.
Figure 2-3: MSS Side Panel
Reset
PC Card1
PC Card2
Reset Button
PC Cards
PC Card Slots
9-30VDC
Power
(MSS4-DFP & -SFP only) Connector
9-30V
Screw Terminal
Power
Connector
MSS4 LEDs
LEDs are located on the front panel of the unit. All MSS4 units have four LEDs that indicate serial activity
for each serial port and two status LEDs. PC card models include two additional LEDs for slot status. The
PC Card LEDs have different meanings depending on what type of PC card is currently in use.
Note: On MSS models that do not have PC card slots, the PC Card LEDs will never light up.
2-2
InstallationInstalling in a Wired Network
The following tables explains the function of the LEDs.
Table 2-1: MSS4 LEDs
LED Function
Serial (1-4) Blinks green to indicate MSS serial activity.
OK Blinks yellow, green, or red to indicate MSS activity.
Link Glows green or yellow to indicate a wired Ethernet connection.
Off: Not connected to a wired Ethernet network
Green: Connected to a 10BASE-T network
Yellow: Connected to either a 100BASE-T or 100BASE-FX network
The PCC1 and PCC2 LEDs, which correspond to the top and bottom PC card slot respectively, vary in
meaning depending on what kind of card is currently installed.
Table 2-2: PCC1 and PCC2 LEDs
LED State 802.11 Cards ATA Cards Modem cards
Off No card inserted No card inserted No card inserted
Green Solid 802.11 link established,
PC card ready for use
Green Blinking Negotiating settings with
AP or ad-hoc peer
Red Solid PC card hardware failure PC card hardware failure PC card hardware failure
Red Blinking PC card not read or
supported
Yellow Solid PC card identified,
initialization in progress
Yellow Blinking Scanning for Access Point
(AP) or ad-hoc peer
Note: Although a red LED during boot mode usually signals an error, red LED patterns are
PC card ready for use PC card ready for use
PC card is not properly
formatted
PC card not read or
supported
PC card identified,
initialization in progress
n/a Card identified,
n/a
PC card not read or
supported
PC card identified,
initialization in progress
initialization problem
part of the normal operation of the MSS and are not necessarily indicative of errors or
dangerous operation.
Installing in a Wired Network
The MSS should be positioned close to the device it will be servicing. Since powering down the unit will
terminate any active sessions, it may be desirable to place the server in a location secure from user access.
Also be aware of the unit’s environmental operating limits and cabling requirements. See
Appendix E for details.
Appendix C and
2-3
InstallationInstalling in a Wired Network
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3
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The following diagram shows a properly-installed MSS in a wired Ethernet network. The numbers in the
diagram refer to the installation steps in this section.
Figure 2-4: MSS Connected to Serial Device and Network
MSS4
3
Fiber Pair
2b
(to network)
Twisted Pair
2a
Serial
Device
1
1 Connect the MSS to a serial device. Note that all serial ports are initially configured for RS-232
networking.
A Connect one end of a serial cable to either one of the MSS DB9 connectors or screw terminal
blocks (depending on the model). See
Note: For the first connection, you may want to connect a serial terminal to the console port,
Appendix C for MSS connector pinout information.
designated as the first serial port. This will allow you to verify that your server is working
and to configure the necessary network settings. The console port is initially set for 9600
baud, 8 data bits, one stop bit, no parity, and XON/XOFF flow control.
When using a screw terminal block, you may have to connect from 2 to 6 wires depending upon
the desired MSS usage mode. Do not over-tighten the screws, but make sure the wire is secure in
the block.
Figure 2-5: Connecting Wire to Screw Terminal Blocks
B Connect the other end of the cable to your serial device’s serial port.
2 Connect the MSS to the network via one of the following methods.
Connect one end of a twisted-pair 10/100BASE-T cable to the Ethernet network. Connect the
other end of the cable to the RJ45 Ethernet port on the front of the MSS.
Connect one end of a fiber optic cable to the Ethernet network. Connect the other end of the cable
to the fiber link ports (ST-style connector) on the front of the MSS.
3 Supply power to the MSS. This can be done through either the MSS power jack or the screw terminal
power connector. Do not supply power to both the power jack and the screw terminal at the same time.
A Connect one end of a power connector to the MSS via one of the following.
Wire
T
X
R
X
2-4
Installation Installing PC Cards
Connect the barrel jack end of the power cable to the MSS power jack.
Connect power to the 9-30V screw terminal power connector and to ground and chassis
ground.
INPUT TERMINAL BLOCK: The auxiliary input terminal block may be connected
only to a SELV circuit. The maximum rating is 30Vdc peak
Supply power to the MSS by connecting the power cube end of the power cable to a standard wall
B
outlet.
When the MSS receives power, it will begin a three-step boot process.
The MSS runs through a set of power-up diagnostics for approximately five seconds. The OK
and Serial LEDs should show varying patterns corresponding to the test being run.
Note:
If there is a valid connection to a wired Ethernet network, the Link LED should remain
solid green or yellow once the unit has completed booting.
The MSS tries to obtain TCP/IP configuration information via DHCP, BOOTP, and/or RARP.
This procedure takes approximately 40 seconds if no hosts answer the request, and boot messages
will be sent to the console port. The OK LED will blink green approximately three times per
second, and occasionally yellow as packets are sent and received.
Note:
For more information on BOOTP, RARP, or DHCP, refer to your operating system’s
documentation.
The MSS determines if the code in the Flash ROMs is valid. If so, it loads the code and begins
normal execution. This step takes approximately five seconds.
Once the MSS is running normally, the Link LED should be solidly lit to indicate a functioning wired
Ethernet connection and the OK LED should blink once every two seconds.
Supply power to the attached serial device(s), if necessary.
4
Ensure the MSS is working. There are a couple ways to check:
5
Wait for approximately 30 seconds after powering the unit up. If the Link LED is solidly lit and
the OK LED blinks green once every two seconds, the MSS is operating normally.
If you have connected a serial terminal to the console port, press the Return key. You should see
several lines of start-up messages followed by a Local> prompt.
Installing PC Cards
The following sections explain how to install different kinds of cards in the MSS PC card slots. Not all PC
card types or brands are supported. Check the Lantronix web site for a complete list of currently supported
technologies.
Installing an 802.11 Card
Although 802.11 networking is enabled by default, you may need to configure other 802.11 settings before
the wireless card will work properly. To view your current 802.11 configuration, enter the Show 80211
command. This command may also be useful if you experience any problems with your wireless network.
See
802.11 Configuration on page 4-13
Note:
You cannot have more than one 802.11 card installed in the MSS at one time.
for more details.
2-5
Installation Installing PC Cards
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1
2
3
4
reset
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1
2
9
-
30vdc
The following diagram shows a properly-installed MSS in a wireless Ethernet network. Be sure to read your
PC card manual for specific placement and distance requirements.
Figure 2-6: MSS Connected to Serial Device and Wireless Network
MSS4
Serial
Wireless
Device
(to network)
Follow these steps to properly install an 802.11 card.
1 Power off the MSS by removing the plug from the outlet.
2 Insert a supported 802.11 card into one of the PC card slots.
3 Power up the MSS by plugging the power supply back in the outlet.
The MSS should begin its normal boot process. Once the process is complete, one of the PC Card
LEDs should remain lit as long as there is an 802.11 card inserted in the corresponding PC card slot.
When the PC card LED corresponding to the installed card is solid green, the MSS is ready for
use.
If your PC card LED is any other color, refer to Table 2-1 on page 2-3 for information on what that
color means.
Installing an ATA Flash Card
Follow these steps to properly install supported ATA flash and disk storage cards.
1 Power off the MSS by unplugging its power cable.
2 Insert a supported ATA Flash card into one of the PC card slots.
3 If desired, insert another supported ATA Flash card into the other PC card slot.
4 Power up the MSS by plugging its power cable into the outlet.
The MSS should boot up normally.
If a PC card LED is a solid green, the ATA card in the corresponding slot is ready for use.
If a PC card LED blinks green, the ATA card in the corresponding slot must be formatted before
it can be used. Proceed to Formatting an ATA Flash Card on page 4-17 for details.
If a PC card LED is any other color, refer to Table 2-1 on page 2-3 for information on what that
color means.
2-6
Installation Installing PC Cards
Installing a Modem Card
An installed modem card will appear as an additional serial port on the MSS. If only one card is installed,
the card will appear as Port 5 regardless of which slot it is in. If two cards are installed, the card installed in
the top slot (slot 1) will appear as Port 5 and the card in the bottom slot (slot 2) will appear as Port 6.
If you are an SDK user, you can access the port by using device “tt4” for port 5 or “tt5” for port 6.
Follow these steps to properly install supported modem cards.
1 Power off the MSS by unplugging its power cable.
2 Insert a supported modem card into one of the PC card slots.
3 If desired, insert another supported modem card into the other PC card slot.
4 Power up the MSS by plugging its power cable into the outlet.
The MSS should boot up normally.
For instructions on how to use the modem card, see
Modem Cards on page 4-17.
2-7
3: Getting Started
This chapter covers all of the steps needed to get the MSS on-line and working. There are three basic
methods you can use to log into the MSS and begin configuration:
Incoming (Remote) Logins: EZWebCon is the preferred method for initial MSS configuration. Users
can also use the
configuration, the MSS can be accessed remotely across TCP/IP networks through Telnet
connections. Incoming connections also include network socket port connections (ports 2001-2004
and 3001-3004).
Serial Port Logins: Users can connect a terminal directly to one of the serial ports, log in, and use the
command line interface to configure the unit.
Remote Console Logins: TCP/IP users can make a Telnet connection to the remote console port (port
7000).
MSS’s internal HTTP server via a standard web browser. After the initial
Consider the following points before you log in and configure the
Most configuration commands require privileged user status. Connecting a terminal to a serial port
MSS:
or logging into the remote console port does not automatically create privileged user status—you
must enter the Set Privileged command to become the privileged user (see Privileged Password on page
3-1).
The MSS IP address must be configured before any TCP/IP functionality is available (see IP Address
Configuration on page 3-3).
Only one person at a time may be logged into the remote console port (port 7000). This eliminates the
possibility of several people simultaneously attempting to configure the MSS.
Although passwords can be required, remote console logins cannot be disabled. This ensures that the
system manager will always be able to access the unit.
System Passwords
The MSS has both a privileged password and a login password. These passwords have default settings and
are discussed in the following sections.
Note: Default passwords pose a security risk and should be changed as soon as possible. This
is especially true of the privileged password.
Privileged Password
Only the privileged user can change server or port settings. To become the privileged user, enter the Set
Privileged command, followed by the privileged password. The default privileged password is system.
Local> SET PRIVILEGED
Password> system (not echoed)
If another user is currently the privileged user for the MSS, use the Set Privileged Override command to
forcibly become the privileged user. To relinquish privileged status, enter the Set Noprivileged command.
Figure 3-1: Set Privileged Command
3-1
Getting Started System Passwords
The privileged password can be changed with the Change Server Privpass command. Specify a new
password of up to six alphanumeric characters. Note that only the privileged user can change the privileged
password.
Figure 3-2: Changing Privileged Password
Local> SET PRIVILEGED
Password> system (not echoed)
Local>> CHANGE SERVER PRIVPASS “walrus”
Note:
The Port and Server keywords are missing from the command names listed in the MSS
Reference Manual
. For example, Change Server Bootgateway is listed as Change
Bootgateway.
Login Passwords
Login passwords for all connections except remote console logins (port 7000) are disabled by default. The
login password is always required for remote console logins. The default login password for all connections
is access.
To specify a new login password, use the Change Server Loginpass command. You will be prompted to
enter a new password of up to six alphabetic characters. Note that you must be the privileged user (i.e. you
must enter the Set Privileged command) to change the login password.
Figure 3-3: Changing the Login Password
Local> SET PRIVILEGED
Password> system (not echoed)
Local>> CHANGE SERVER LOGINPASS “badger”
Serial Port Logins
To require a password for any connections to the MSS from its serial ports, enable password protection with
the Change Port [Portlist] Password Protect Enabled command. The command allows you to specify the
serial ports for which you want to provide password protection.
Figure 3-4: Enabling Password Protection for Serial Port Logins
Local>> CHANGE PORT 1-4 PASSWORD PROTECT ENABLED
Telnet and Rlogin Connections
To require a password for Telnet and Rlogin connections, enter the Change Server Incoming Password
command.
Figure 3-5: Enabling Password Protection for Telnet/Rlogin Connections
Local>> CHANGE SERVER INCOMING PASSWORD
Network Socket Connections
To enable the login password for network socket connections, enter the Change Port [Portlist] Password
Incoming Enabled command. The command allows you to specify the serial ports for which you want to
provide password proection.
Figure 3-6: Enabling Password Protection for Network Socket Connections
Local>> CHANGE PORT 2 PASSWORD INCOMING ENABLED
3-2
Getting Started IP Address Configuration
IP Address Configuration
Note: When you set an IP address, you may also need to change the subnet mask from the
default subnet configuration. See
Using EZWebCon
Note: If your version of EZWebCon is earlier than v.2.0, refer to the Readme that was included
with it.
Use the following steps to assign an IP address using EZWebCon.
1 Start EZWebCon. Instructions for installing, running, and using EZWebCon can be found on the
distribution CD-ROM.
2 From the Action menu, select Assign IP Address.
3 Enter or change the IP-related settings:
A For Ethernet Address, enter the number that appears on the bottom label of your MSS.
B For IP Address, enter the desired IP address to use for this MSS.
C For Subnet Mask, change the values provided only if you wish to use a mask other than the
default. The default value should be correct in most cases.
Subnet Mask on page 4-2 for more information.
D For Loadhost, enter the IP address of the loadhost where you intend to store your operating code
and SDK files (if used).
4 Click OK.
5 Wait for instructions from EZWebCon.
Using ARP and Ping
The ARP/ping method is available under UNIX and Windows. If the MSS has no IP address, it will set its
address from the first directed IP packet it receives.
On a UNIX host, create an entry in the host’s ARP table and substitute the intended IP address and the
hardware address of the server, then ping the server (see
superuser privileges.
Figure 3-7: Entering ARP and Ping (UNIX)
# arp -s 192.0.1.228 00:80:a3:xx:xx:xx
% ping 192.0.1.228
On a Windows host, type ARP -A at the DOS command prompt to verify that there is at least one entry in
the ARP table. If there is no other entry beside the local machine, ping another IP machine on your network
to build the ARP table. This has to be a host other than the machine on which you're working. Windows NT
and Windows 2000 require Administrator rights to add an ARP entry.
Figure 3-7). This process typically requires
3-3
Getting Started IP Address Configuration
Use the following commands to ARP the IP address to the MSS and make the MSS acknowledge the IP
assignment.
Figure 3-8: Entering ARP and Ping (Windows)
C:\ ARP -S 192.0.1.228 00-80-A3-XX-XX-XX
C:\ PING 192.0.1.228
Note:
When the
There should be replies from the IP address if the ARP command worked.
MSS receives the ping packet, it will notice that its IP address is not set and will send out
broadcasts to see if another node is using the specified address. If no duplicate is found, the server will use
the IP address and will respond to the next ping packet.
The MSS will not save the learned IP address permanently. This procedure is intended as a temporary
measure to enable EZWebCon to communicate with the server, allow configuration with a web browser, or
allow an administrator to Telnet into the MSS. Once logged in, the administrator can enter the Change
Server IPaddress command to make the address permanent.
Figure 3-9: Changing the IP Address
% telnet 192.0.1.228
Trying 192.0.1.228
Lantronix Version n.n/n (yymmdd)
Type Help at the ‘Local_>’ prompt for assistance.
Username> gopher
Local> SET PRIVILEGED
Password> system (not echoed)
Local>> CHANGE SERVER IPADDRESS 192.0.1.228
Using a DHCP, BOOTP, or RARP Reply
A host-based DHCP, BOOTP, or RARP server can provide information for the MSS to use to configure an
IP address when the unit boots. See the host-based documentation pages for configuration information.
Keep in mind that many BOOTP daemons will not reply to a BOOTP request if the download file name in
the configuration file does not exist. If this is the case, create a file in the download path to get the BOOTP
daemon to respond.
BOOTP and RARP are enabled by default on the MSS. If you wish to disable them, use the Change Server
BOOTP Disabled and Change Server RARP Disabled commands. To enable DHCP, use the Change
Server DHCP Enabled command.
Using the Serial Console
Connect a terminal to the serial console port and press the Return key. If the MSS is functioning normally,
you will see the Local> prompt. Become the privileged user and enter the Change Server IPaddress
command.
Figure 3-10: Entering the IP Address at the Local Prompt
Local> SET PRIVILEGED
Password> system (not echoed)
Local>> CHANGE SERVER IPADDRESS 192.0.1.228
3-4
Getting Started Incoming Logins
If the MSS encounters an Ethernet network problem while booting it will send an alert message to the
console and wait ten seconds to detect serial port activity before attempting to finish booting. If you press
the Return key when the error message is displayed, you will access the Boot> prompt.
If the MSS fails to properly download code and displays a “will try again” message, you can access the
Boot> prompt by pressing the Return key. You can then enter the Change Server IPaddress command at
the Boot> prompt to set the unit’s IP address.
Note: For more information on Boot Configuration Program (BCP) commands, see the
Troubleshooting appendix.
Incoming Logins
Incoming Telnet logins, including connections to network socket ports and the remote console, are enabled
by default. This behavior can be changed with the Change Server Incoming command and one of the
following parameters:
Telnet Enables incoming Telnet logins
None Disables all incoming logins
For security reasons, you may wish to disable incoming logins. Incoming logins for a port can be disabled
with the Change Port [Portlist] Access command (see Access Mode on page 4-8 for more information).
Note: Access to the remote console port can never be disabled.
If you do not want to completely disable incoming logins, you can configure the MSS to require a login
password for incoming connections with various commands, depending on the type of incoming
connection. See Login Passwords on page 3-2 for more information.
TCP/IP Logins
Web Browser Login and Configuration
If your MSS has an IP address, you can log into it using a standard web browser with Java enabled. Simply
type the MSS IP address or resolvable text name into the browser’s URL/Location field.
Figure 3-11: Sample Web Browser Login
3-5
Getting Started Incoming Logins
Once you have connected to the MSS, you will see the Lantronix ThinWeb Manager interface. Use the lefthand menu to navigate to subpages where you can configure important settings and view statistics and other
server information.
Figure 3-12: ThinWeb Manager Interface
MENU
EZWebCon Login and Configuration
If you are on a TCP/IP network, you can log into and configure the MSS with EZWebCon. The program
offers a simple interface that prompts you for the information necessary to configure the server. Instructions
for installing, running, and using EZWebCon are included on the CD-ROM.
Telnet
To log into the MSS, type telnet followed by the MSS IP address. The MSS must have an IP address assigned
in order for this command to work.
Figure 3-13: A Telnet Connection
% telnet 192.0.1.88
Rlogin
Rlogin allows users to connect to a remote device as if they were on the local network. Rlogin is enabled
by default.
To log into the MSS, type rlogin followed by the MSS IP address
Figure 3-14: An Rlogin Connection
% rlogin 192.0.1.88
Serial Port Logins
Attach a terminal to one of the serial ports and press the Return key. The Local> prompt should be
displayed. Proceed to the Configuration chapter to configure the unit using the command line interface.
If there was a problem during the boot process, pressing any key will display the Boot prompt. This prompt
enables you to enter a special set of commands, called Boot Configuration Program (BCP) commands,
which are discussed in Appendix B.
Remote Console Logins
You can configure the MSS via a Telnet connection to the remote console port, designated as port 7000.
Connections to the console port cannot be disabled. This ensures that administrators will always be able to
log into the port.
3-6
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