Perle RPS830, RPS1620H, RPS1630H, RPS820 User Manual

Models Covered:

RPS820

RPS830
RPS1620H
RPS1630H

5500193-12

RPS Series

Remote Power Switches

User's Guide

Warnings and Cautions:

Installation Instructions

Secure Racking

If Secure Racked units are installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, they may require
further evaluation by Certication Agencies. The following items must be considered.

1. The ambient within the rack may be greater than room ambient. Installation should be
such that the amount of air ow required for safe operation is not compromised. The
maximum temperature for the equipment in this environment is 55°C. Consideration
should be given to the maximum rated ambient.

2. Installation should be such that a hazardous stability condition is not achieved due to
uneven loading.

3. Side vents are used to dissipate heat generated within the unit. When mounting the unit in
an equipment rack, make certain to allow adequate clearance for venting.

Input Supply

Check nameplate ratings to assure there is no overloading of supply circuits that could have an
effect on overcurrent protection and supply wiring.

Grounding

Reliable earthing of this equipment must be maintained. Particular attention should be given to
supply connections when connecting to power strips, rather than direct connections to the
branch circuit.

No Serviceable Parts Inside; Authorized Service Personnel Only

Do not attempt to repair or service this device yourself. Internal components must be serviced by
authorized personnel only.

• ShockHazard-DoNotEnter

• LithiumBattery
CAUTION:Dangerofexplosionifbatteryisincorrectlyreplaced.Replaceonlywith
sameorequivalenttyperecommendedbythemanufacturer.Discardusedbatteries
accordingtothemanufacturer'sinstructions.

Disconnect Power

If any of the following events are noted, immediately disconnect the unit from the outlet and
contact qualied service personnel:

1. If the power cord becomes frayed or damaged.

2. If liquid has been spilled into the device or if the device has been exposed to rain or water.

Two Power Supply Cables

Note that RPS series units feature two separate power circuits, and a separate power supply cable
for each power circuit. Before attempting to service or remove his unit, please make certain to
disconnect both power supply cables are disconnected.

i

Agency Approvals

FCC Part 15 Regulation

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which
case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation

WARNING: Changes or modications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment

EMC, Safety, and R&TTE Directive Compliance

The CE mark is afxed to this product to conrm compliance with the following European
Community Directives:

• CouncilDirective89/336/EECof3May1989ontheapproximationofthelawsof
MemberStatesrelatingtoelectromagneticcompatibility;

 and

• CouncilDirective73/23/EECof19February1973ontheharmonizationofthelaws
ofMemberStatesrelatingtoelectricalequipmentdesignedforusewithincertain
voltagelimits;

 and

• CouncilDirective1999/5/ECof9Marchonradioequipmentandtelecommunications
terminalequipmentandthemutualrecognitionoftheirconformity.

ii

Table of Contents

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

2. UnitDescription . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

2.1. RPS Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

2.2. RPS Series - Back Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2.3. Additional Button Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

3. GettingStarted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

3.1. Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

3.1.1. You Need to Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

3.2. Hardware Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

3.3. Applying Power to the RPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2

3.4. Connecting the Device Server to the RPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2

3.5. Connecting the Device Server to the RPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

3.6. Conguring the RPS Standalone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

4. HardwareInstallation.............................................................4-1

4.1. Power Supply Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1

4.1.1. Installing the Cable Keepers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

4.2. Connection to Switched Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

4.3. SetUp Port Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

4.3.1. Connecting a Local PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

4.3.2. Connecting an External Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

4.4. Connecting the Network Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

5. BasicConguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5.1. Communicating with the RPS Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1

5.1.1. The Text Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5.1.2. The Web Browser Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

5.2. Conguration Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

5.3. Dening System Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

5.3.1. The Real Time Clock and Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

5.3.2. The Invalid Access Lockout Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-7

5.3.3. Log Conguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

5.3.3.1. Audit Log Conguration Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

5.3.3.2. Reading, Downloading and Erasing Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10

5.3.4. Callback Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

5.3.5. Scripting Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

5.3.5.1. Automated Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14

5.4. User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

5.4.1. Command Access Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15

5.4.2. Plug Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16

5.4.3. Port Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16

5.5. Managing User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-17

5.5.1. Viewing User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17

5.5.2. Adding User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-17

5.5.3. Modifying User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19

5.5.4. Deleting User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19

iii

Table of Contents

5. BasicConguration(Continued)

5.6. The Plug Group Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20

5.6.1. Viewing Plug Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20

5.6.2. Adding Plug Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21

5.6.3. Modifying Plug Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21

5.6.4. Deleting Plug Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21

5.7. Dening Plug Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22

5.7.1. The Boot Priority Parameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-23

5.7.1.1. Example 1: Change Plug A3 to Priority 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23

5.7.1.2. Example 2: Change Plug A5 to Priority 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-24

5.8. Serial Port Conguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25

5.9. Network Conguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27

5.9.1. Network Port Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-28

5.9.2. Network Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-29

5.9.3. IP Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-31

5.9.3.1. Adding IP Addresses to the Allow and Deny Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-32

5.9.3.2. Linux Operators and Wild Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-32

5.9.3.3. IP Security Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33

5.9.4. Static Route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34

5.9.5. Domain Name Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-34

5.10. Save User Selected Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-35

5.10.1. Restore Conguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-35

6. TheStatusScreens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

6.1. Product Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

6.2. The Network Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2

6.3. The Plug Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

6.4. The Plug Group Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4

7. Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

7.1. Operation via the Web Browser Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

7.1.1. The Plug Control Screen - Web Browser Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

7.1.2. The Plug Group Control Screen - Web Browser Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

7.2. Operation via the Text Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

7.2.1. Switching and Reboot Commands - Text Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

7.2.2. Applying Commands to Several Plugs - Text Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

7.3. The Automated Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

7.4. Manual Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

7.5. Logging Out of Command Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-7

8. SyslogMessages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

8.1. Conguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1

9. SavingandRestoringCongurationParameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

9.1. Sending Parameters to a File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1

9.2. Restoring Saved Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2

9.3. Restoring Previously Saved Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

10. UpgradingRPSFirmware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

10.2. The Upgrade Firmware Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1

iv

Table of Contents

11. CommandReferenceGuide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

11.1. Command Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

11.2. Command Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-2

11.3. Command Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

11.3.1. Display Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

11.3.2. Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5

11.3.3. Conguration Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9

Appendices:

A. Specications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apx-1

B. InterfaceDescriptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apx-2

B.1. SetUp Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apx-2

C. CustomerService . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apx-3

C.1. Contacting Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apx-3

v

Table of Contents

List of Figures

2.1. Front Panel (RPS16 Series Shown) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1

2.2. Back Panel (Model RPS1630H Shown) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2

5.1. Boot Priority Example 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23

5.2. Boot Priority Example 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-24

B.1. SetUp Port Interface (RJ45, Cisco Pinout) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Apx-2

vi

1. Introduction

Electronic equipment sometimes "locks-up" requiring a service call just to ip the power switch
to perform a simple reboot. RPS Series Remote Power Switches give you the ability to perform
this function remotely. If secure remote access is an issue, you can communicate through Perle’s
IOLAN DS product line to securely manage the power status of your electronic equipment.

To congure your environment for an RPS and a Perle IOLAN DS product, refer to the SCS/SDS/
STS User’s Guide. When you are using the RPS independently, point your browser to the RPS’s
IP Address, enter the secure user name and password, and you’re just a click away from remote
power On, Off or Reboot.

IntelligentPowerControl

In addition to web browser access, the RPS can also communicate over any TCP/IP network
using standard Telnet, or out-of-band using an external modem and basic VT100 type terminal
emulation.

SecurityFeaturesandCo-LocationFeatures

To ensure security, web browser access requires the user to enter an assigned user name and
password. The RPS provides two levels of operational passwords; the System Administrator
Level, which allows access to all conguration and switching functions, and the User Level,
which only allows access to assigned plugs and cannot be used to change unit conguration.

The RPS also includes an address specic IP security mask, which can be employed to prevent
unauthorized network access to the RPS command mode.

EasytoCongure,EasytoUse

The RPS can be congured over the network, via modem, or locally via the RPS SetUp port.
Easy to use commands let you assign a location name, set system parameters and view plug
status. Outlets can be switched On, Off, or booted using plug numbers or names.

1-1

Introduction

FourDifferentRPSModels

This User’s Guide discusses four different RPS models. Throughout this User’s Guide, all four
units are referred to as the "RPS". Aside from the hardware conguration, all other features
function identically in both units except where noted.

The table below summarizes the four RPS units covered in this manual:

• RPS820: Horizontal mount. Eight (8) switched, 208 to 240 VAC,
IEC-320-C20 outlets. 32 Amps maximum total load (de-rated.)
One (1) Rack Unit.

• RPS830: Horizontal mount. Eight (8) switched, 100 to 120 VAC, NEMA 5-15R outlets.
32 Amps maximum total load (de-rated.)
One (1) Rack Unit.

• RPS1620H: Horizontal mount. Sixteen (16) switched, 208 to 240 VAC, IEC-320-C20
outlets. 32 Amps maximum total load (de-rated.)
Two (2) Rack Units.

• RPS1630H: Horizontal mount. Sixteen (16) switched, 100 to 120 VAC, NEMA 5-15R
outlets. 32 Amps maximum total load (de-rated.)
Two (2) Rack Units.

Typographic Conventions

Throughout this manual, typefaces and characters have been used to denote the following:

COURIER FONT Indicates characters typed on the keyboard.
For example, /ON 3 or /OFF 5.

[BoldFont] Text set in bold face and enclosed in square brackets indicates a
specic key. For example, [Enter] or [Esc].

1-2

2. Unit Description

7

DEFAULT

ON RDY

SETUP PORT

1 2 3 4

RESET

OUTPUT STATUS

A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B7 B8

5

Remote Power Switch

6 8

A1 - A4 A5 - A8

Figure 2.1: Front Panel (RPS16 Series Shown)

2.1. RPS Front Panel

As shown in Figure 2.1, the RPS Series Front Panel includes the following components:

1. SetUpPort: An RJ45 RS232 serial port (DCE conguration) used for connection to a
local terminal or external modem, as described in Section 4.3. For a description of the
Setup Port interface, please refer to Appendix B.1.

2. "ON"Indicator: An LED which lights when power is applied to the RPS unit.

3. "RDY"Indicator: (Ready) Flashes if unit is ready to receive commands.

4. DefaultButton: Manually toggles outlets On/Off or resets unit to factory default
parameters as described in Section 2.3.

B5 - B8B1 - B4

5. ResetButton: Reboots and/or resets the RPS to factory defaults as described in
Section 2.3.

Note: All Front Panel Button functions can also be disabled via the System
Parameters menu, as described in Section 5.3.

6. OutputStatusIndicators: LEDs light when corresponding outlet is switched On.

7. BranchACircuitBreakers: Two circuit breakers, which protect Branch A. One circuit
breaker protects outlets A1 through A4, and the other circuit breaker protects outlets A5
through A8.

8. BranchBCircuitBreakers: Same as Item 7 above, except circuit breakers protect
outlets on Branch B.

2-1

Unit Description

1

A

B

A1

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5

A 2

A3 A4 A5

2

3

A6

B6 B7

4

A7 A8

ALARM

A

B

B8

5

Figure 2.2: Back Panel (Model RPS1630H Shown)

2.2. RPS Series - Back Panel

As shown in Figure 2.2, the RPS Series Back Panel includes the following components:

1. PowerCircuitA-PowerInlet: An IEC320-C20 AC inlet which supplies power to RPS
control functions and the Circuit “A” outlets. Also includes cable keeper (not shown.)

2. PowerCircuitB-PowerInlet: An IEC320-C20 AC inlet which supplies power to RPS
control functions and the Circuit “B” outlets. Also includes cable keeper (not shown.)

ACT

10/100 BaseT

LINK

6

3. PowerCircuitA-SwitchedOutlets: AC Outlets that can be switched On, Off, rebooted
or set to default state in response to user commands:

4. PowerCircuitB-SwitchedOutlets: Same as Item 3 above.

5. AlarmIndicatorLights: For future use.

6. NetworkPort: An RJ45 Ethernet port for connection to your 10/100Base-T, TCP/IP
network. Note that the RPS features a default IP address (192.168.168.168). This allows
you to connect to the unit without rst assigning an IP address. Note that the Network Port
also includes two, small LED indicators for Link and Data Activity. For more information
on Network Port conguration, please refer to Section 5.9.

2-2

Unit Description

2.3. Additional Button Functions

The Default and Reset buttons on the RPS front panel can be used to perform the functions
described below:

Notes:

• All Front Panel Button functions can also be disabled via the System Parameters

menu, as described in Section 5.3.

• When the RPS is reset to factory defaults, all user-dened conguration

parameters will be cleared, and the default “super” user account will also be
restored.

1. RebootOperatingSystem:

a) Press and hold the Reset button for ve seconds, and then release it.

b) The RPS will reboot it's operating system; all plugs will be left in their current On/Off

state.

2. SetParameterstoFactoryDefaults:

a) Simultaneously press both the Default button and the Reset button, hold them for ve

seconds, and then release them.

b) All RPS parameters will be reset to their original factory default settings, and the unit

will then reboot. All plugs will be left in their current On/Off state.

3. Toggle/DefaultAllPlugs:

a) Press the Default button, hold it for ve seconds, and then release the Default Button.

b) The RPS will switch all plugs to the Off state. If all plugs are already in the Off state,

then the unit will reset all plugs to their user dened default states.

2-3

3. Getting Started

This section describes how to set up the Perle Remote Power Switch (RPS) with your IOLAN
Device Server. If you are using the RPS as a stand-alone, please refer to the remainder of this
user's guide for further information. You can securely manage the power going to any electronic
device through the IOLAN Device Server. For further installation and conguration details,
please see the IOLAN SDS/SCS/STS User's Guide.

3.1. Components

You should receive the following components with your RPS unit:

• Two US Power cords with IEC power connectors (RPS830 and RPS1630H Models Only)

• Quick Start Guide

• CDROM containing the RPS User's Guide and Quick Start Guide

• Rack Mount Brackets

• One CAT5 Cable

• RJ45M to RJ45F Adapter for use with IOLAN models. (Part No. 1100219-10)

• RJ45M to RJ45F Adapter for use with IOLAN C and CM models
(Part No. 1100320-10)

• RJ45F to DB-9F for connecting the RPS SetUp port to the PC COM port
(Part No. 1100300-10)

3.1.1. You Need to Supply

• IOLAN Device Server (If it does not have an RJ45 connector, you will need an adapter.)

• External Power Cords (Europe and UK Only)

3.2. Hardware Installation

The instructions in this section assume that you have already powered up your IOLAN Device
Server according to the Device Server's Quick Start Guide.

3-1

Getting Started

3.3. Applying Power to the RPS

Refer to power rating nameplate on the RPS back panel, and then connect the RPS unit to an
appropriate power source. RPS830 and RPS1630H units should be connected to a 100 to 120
VAC power supply, and RPS820 and RPS1620H units should be connected to a 208 to 240 VAC
power supply.

CAUTION: Make certain to review the safety precautions listed in Section 4.1 and
at the beginning of this User's Guide.

Note that RPS units feature two separate AC inputs. Connect power supply cables to the RPS’s
Circuit "A" and Circuit "B" inlets, and then connect the cables to an appropriate power supply.
RPS Series units will support up to 16 Amps maximum per power circuit, for a total load of
32 Amps (de-rated.)

The ON LED should light, and the RDY LED should begin to ash. This indicates that the RPS
is ready to receive commands.

3.4. Connecting the Device Server to the RPS

To securely manage the RPS, congure the Device Server as follows:

1. Set the Line Service (Prole) to Power Management for the line that is connected to the
RPS serial port.

2. Plug the CAT5 cable into the SetUp port on the RPS.

3. Connecting the Adapter to the IOLAN:

(a) ForIOLANModels: Plug the RJ45M to RJ45F Adapter (Part No. 1100219-10) into

the serial port on the IOLAN that will be congued for Power Management. (See
Section 3.5.)

(b) ForIOLANModelCandCM: Plug the RJ45M to RJ45F Adapter (Part No.

1100320-10) into the serial port on the IOLAN C and CM that will be congured for
Power Management. (See Section 3.5.)

4. Connect the CAT5 cable to the Adapter.

3-2

Getting Started

3.5. Connecting the Device Server to the RPS

To securely manage the RPS, congure the Device Server as follows:

1. Set the Line Service to Power Management for the line that is connected to the RPS
serial port.

2. Congure the Power Management Settings for the RPS.

See the IOLAN SDS/SCS/STS User’s Guide for information about the settings and how to
actively manage the RPS.

3.6. Configuring the RPS Standalone

To independently manage the RPS, through a PC COM port congure as follows:

NOTE: The default serial port parameters are set as folows: 9600,
RTS/CTS handshaking, 8 data bits, one stop bit and no parity.

1. Plug the RJ45F to DB9F (Part No. 1100300-10) into the COM port on the PC.

2. Connect the CAT5 cable to this adapter and the RJ45 SetUp port on the RPS.

3. Start your communication program on your PC (set serial port parameters as described
above.)

4. Press [Enter]

5. The RPS will return the RPS> command prompt.

6. Type /h and press [Enter] to view the command menu.

Please refer to the remainder of this User's Guide for instructions regarding other methods to
connect to the RPS.

3-3

4. Hardware Installation

This section provides further details regarding installation the RPS unit.

4.1. Power Supply Connection

Use the supplied power cords to connect the RPS to an appropriate power supply. RPS830 and
RPS1630H units should be connected to a 100 to 120 VAC Power Supply, and RPS820 and
RPS1620H units should be connected to a 208 to 240 VAC power supply.

CAUTIONS:

• This device should only be operated with the type of power source indicated

on the instrument nameplate. If you are not sure of the type of power service
available, please contact your local power company.

• Reliable earthing (grounding) of this unit must be maintained. Particular

attention should be given to supply connections when connecting to power strips,
rather than directly to the branch circuit.

• Check nameplate ratings to ensure that there is no overloading of supply circuits

that could have an effect on overcurrent protection and supply wiring.

4.1.1. Installing the Cable Keepers

The RPS includes cable keepers, which are designed to prevent the power supply cables from
being accidentally disconnected from the unit.

• RPS1620HandRPS1630H: Sixteen-plug units include pre-installed cable keepers.
When attaching the power supply cables to the unit, rst swing the cable keepers out of the
way, then plug the power cables securely into the power inputs. When the cables are in
place, snap the cable keepers over each plug to secure the cables to the unit.

• RPS820andRPS830: The cable keeper for eight-plug units must be installed by the user.
First make certain that both of the RPS's two power cables are disconnected from your
power supply. Next, loosen (but do not remove) the retaining screws located adjacent to
the power inlets. Connect the power supply cables to the RPS power inlets, then slip the
cable keepers under each supply cable so the notches at the top of the keeper line up with
each cable, and the two slots on the bottom of the keeper slide under the loosened retaining
screws. Tighten the retaining screws to secure the cable keeper to the unit, make certain
that the cables are secure, and then connect the cables to your power supply.

4-1

Hardware Installation

4.2. Connection to Switched Outlets

Connect the power cord from each device that you wish to control, to a Switched AC Outlet
on the RPS unit. Note that when power is applied to the RPS in the default state, the Switched
Outlets will all initially be switched "ON".

RPS830 and RPS1630H units are designed for 100 to 120 VAC power control; Power Circuit "A"
can switch up to 16 Amps, and Power Circuit "B" can also switch up to 16 Amps, providing a
maximum total load of 32 Amps for the unit (de-rated.)

RPS820 and RPS1620H units are designed for 208 to 240 VAC power control; Power Circuit "A"
can switch up to 16 Amps, and Power Circuit "B" can also switch up to 16 Amps, providing a
maximum total load of 32 Amps for the unit (de-rated.)

4.3. SetUp Port Connection

The Setup port is a female RS232C RJ45 (Cisco pinout) connector wired in a DTE conguration
similar to an AT computer. In the default state, the SetUp port is congured for 9600 bps, no
parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit. The SetUp Port can be connected to either an external modem or a
local PC, but not both items at the same time. Appendix B.1 describes the SetUp Port interface.

4.3.1. Connecting a Local PC

When connecting the SetUp Port to a Local PC, note that the port uses a DTE conguration.
After the Local PC has been connected, make certain to set the Serial Port Mode to "Normal" as
described in Section 5.8. In order to connect the COM port on your PC to the RPS unit you will
need to connect the RJ45F to DB9F adapter ( part#1100300-10) into the COM port on the PC.
See Section 3.6 for more details.

4.3.2. Connecting an External Modem

When connecting directly to an external modem, use a standard AT Style to Modem cable. Make
certain that the modem is initialized to the same default communications parameters as the RPS
SetUp Port. Next, refer to Section 5.8 and set the Serial Port Mode to "Modem". If necessary,
you may also wish to redene the Modem initialization command at this point as described in
Section 5.8. Please refer to the modem user’s guide for more information.

4-2

Hardware Installation

4.4. Connecting the Network Cable

The Network Port is an RJ45 Ethernet jack, for connection to a TCP/IP network. Connect
your 10/100Base-T cable to the Network Port. Note that the RPS includes a default IP address
(192.168.168.168) and a default subnet mask (255.255.255.0.) When installing the RPS in a
working network environment, it is recommended to dene network parameters as described in
Section 5.9.

This completes the RPS installation instructions. Please proceed to the next Section for
instructions regarding unit conguration.

4-3

5. Basic Configuration

This section describes the basic conguration procedure for all RPS units. This procedure can be
used to recongure the RPS unit in the event that you intend to use it as a stand-alone unit.

5.1. Communicating with the RPS Unit

In order to congure the RPS, you must rst connect to the unit, and access command mode.
Note that, the RPS offers two separate conguration interfaces; the Web Browser Interface and
the Text Interface.

In addition, the RPS also offers three different methods for accessing command mode; via
network, via external modem, or via local console. The Web Browser interface is only available
via network, and the Text Interface is available via Telnet, modem or local PC.

5.1.1. The Text Interface

The Text Interface consists of a series of simple ASCII text menus, which allow you to set options
and dene parameters by entering the number for the desired option using your keyboard, and
then typing in the value for that option.

You can to use the Text Interface to communicate with the RPS via local PC or Telnet connection.
You can also use the Text Interface to access command mode via an external modem installed at
the RPS serial Setup Port.

In order to use the Text Interface, your installation must include:

• AccessviaNetwork: The RPS must be connected to your TCP/IP Network, and your PC
must include a communications program (such as HyperTerminal.)

• AccessviaModem: An external modem must be installed at the RPS RS232 Setup
Port (see Section 4.3.2), a phone line must be connected to the external modem, and the
Setup Port must be congured for Modem Mode. In addition, your PC must include a
communications program.

• AccessviaLocalPC: Your PC must be physically connected to the RPS RS232 Setup
Port as described in Section 4.3.1, the RPS Setup Port must be congured for Normal
Mode, and your PC must include a communications program.

5-1

Basic Configuration

To access command mode via the Text Interface, proceed as follows:

1. Contact the RPS Unit:

a) ViaLocalPC: Start your communications program and press [Enter].

b) ViaNetwork: The RPS includes a default IP address (192.168.168.168) and a default

subnet mask (255.255.255.0.) This allows you to contact the unit from any network
node on the same subnet, without rst assigning an IP Address to the unit. For more
information, please refer to Section 5.9. Start your Telnet Client, and then Telnet to
the RPS IP Address.

c) ViaModem: Use your communications program to dial the number for the external

modem which you have connected to the RPS Setup Port.

2. If a valid username and password are entered, the RPS will display a welcome screen.

5.1.2. The Web Browser Interface

The Web Browser Interface consists of a series of web forms, which can be used to select
conguration parameters and perform reboot operations, by clicking on buttons and/or entering
text into designated elds.

1. Start your JavaScript enabled Web Browser, key the RPS IP address
(default = 192.168.168.168) into the web browser’s address bar, and press [Enter].

2. A welcome screen will be displayed.

5-2

Basic Configuration

5.2. Configuration Menus

Although the Web Browser Interface and Text Interface provide two separate means for selecting
parameters, both interfaces allow access to the same set of basic parameters, and parameters
selected via one interface will also be applied to the other. To access the conguration menus,
proceed as follows:

• TextInterface: Refer to the Help Screen (/H) and then enter the appropriate command to
access the desired menu. When the conguration menu appears, key in the number for the
parameter you wish to dene, and follow the instructions in the resulting submenu.

• WebBrowserInterface: Use the links and y-out menus on the left hand of the screen to
access the desired conguration menu. To change parameters, click in the desired eld and
key in the new value or select a value from the pull-down menu. To apply newly selected
parameters, click on the "Change Parameters" button at the bottom of the menu or the
"Set" button next to the eld.

The following sections describe options and parameters that can be accessed via each of the
conguration menus. Please note that essentially the same set of parameters and options are
available to both the Web Browser Interface and Text Interface.

Notes:

• Conguration menus are not available when you have logged into command

mode via a SuperUser, User or ViewOnly level password. SuperUser accounts
are able to view conguration menus, but are not allowed to change parameters.

• When dening parameters via the Text Interface, make certain to press the [Esc]

key to completely exit from the conguration menu and save newly dened
parameters. When parameters are dened via the Text Interface, newly dened
parameters will not be saved until the "Saving Conguration" message has been
displayed and the cursor returns to the command prompt.

5-3

Basic Configuration

5.3. Defining System Parameters

The System Parameters menus are used to dene the Site ID Message, set the system clock and
calendar, and congure the Invalid Access Lockout feature and Callback feature.

To access the System Parameters menu via the Text Interface, type /F and press [Enter]. To
access the System Parameters menu via the Web Browser Interface, place the cursor over the
"General Parameters" link, wait for the yout menu to appear and then click on the "System
Parameters" link. The System Parameters Menus are used to dene the following:

• UserDirectory: This function is used to view, add, modify and delete user accounts and
passwords. As discussed in Section 5.4 and Section 5.5, the User Directory allows you to
set the security level for each account as well as determine which plugs each account will
be allowed to control.

Note: The "User Directory" option does not appear in the Web Browser Interface’s
System Parameters menu, and is instead, accessed via the "User Conguration" link
on the left hand side of the menu.

• SiteID: A text eld, generally used to note the installation site or name for the RPS unit.
(Default = undened.)

• RealTimeClock: This prompt provides access to the Real Time Clock menu, which is
used to set the clock and calendar, and to enable and congure the NTP (Network Time
Protocol) feature as described in Section 5.3.1.

Note: The "Real Time Clock" option does not appear in the Web Browser Interface’s
System Parameters menu, and is instead, accessed via the "Real Time Clock" link in
the General Parameters y-out menu.

• InvalidAccessLockout: If desired, this feature can be used to temporarily disable SetUp
Port access, Telnet access and/or Web access to the RPS command mode after a user
specied number of unsuccessful login attempts are made. For more information, please
refer to Section 5.3.2. (Default = Off.)

Note: The "Invalid Access Lockout" item does not appear in the Web Browser
Interface’s System Parameters menu, and is instead, accessed via the link in the
General Parameters y-out menu.

• TemperatureFormat: Determines whether the temperature is displayed as Fahrenheit or
Celsius. (Default = Fahrenheit.)

• TemperatureCalibration: Used to calibrate the unit's internal temperature sensing
abilities. To calibrate the temperature, place a thermometer inside your equipment rack,
in a location that usually experiences the highest temperature. After a few minutes, take
a reading from the thermometer, and then key the reading into the conguration menu. In
the Web Browser Interface, the temperature is entered at the System Parameters menu,
in the Temperature Calibration eld; in the Text Interface, the temperature is entered in a
submenu of the System Parameters menu, accessed via the Temperature Calibration item.
(Default = undened.)

5-4

Basic Configuration

• LogConguration: Congures the Audit Log, Alarm Log, Temperature Log and Current
Metering Log. For more information on the RPS's event logging functions, please refer
to Section 5.3.3. (Defaults: Audit Log = On without Syslog, Alarm Log = On without
Syslog, Temperature Log = On, Current Metering Log = On.)

Notes:

• The Audit Log will create a record of all connection/disconnection and login/

logout activity at the RPS unit.

• The Alarm Log is not used at this time and is reserved for future use.

• The Temperature Log will create a record of ambient rack temperature

over time.

• CallbackSecurity: Enables / congures the Callback Security Function as described
in Section 5.3.4. In order for this feature to function, a Callback number must also be
dened for each desired user account as described in Section 5.5. (Default = On, Callback,
Without Password Prompt.)

Notes:

• In the Text Interface, Callback Security Parameters are dened via a submenu of

the Systems Parameters Menu, which is accessed via the Callback Security item.

• In the Web Browser Interface, Callback Security Parameters are dened via the

"Callback Security" link in the General Parameters y-out menu.

• FrontPanelButtons: This item can be used to disable all front panel button functions.
(Default = On.)

• ModemPhoneNumber: When an optional external modem is connected to the RPS
Setup Port, the Modem Phone Number parameter can be used to denote the phone number
for the external modem. (Default = undened.)

• ScriptingOptions: Provides access to a submenu that is used to congure the Command
Conrmation, Automated Mode, Command Prompt and RPS Mode parameters as
described in Section 5.3.5.

Note: In the Text Interface, the Scripting Options submenu is accessed via item 12.
To access the Scripting Options parameters via the Web Browser Interface, place the
cursor over the "General Parameters" link, wait for the yout menu to appear, then
click on the "Scripting Options" link.

• SerialNumber: Allows the serial number for the RPS unit to be saved and displayed.
When this parameter is dened, the serial number can be displayed via the Product Status
screen in the Web Browser or by invoking the /J* command in the Text Interface. Since
the serial number plate on the RPS unit is not always easily accessible after installation,
it is often helpful to dene the serial number here in order to simplify the process of
determining the serial number later. (Default = undened.)

5-5

Basic Configuration

5.3.1. The Real Time Clock and Calendar

The Real Time Clock menu is used to set the RPS internal clock and calendar. The conguration
menu for the Real Time Clock offers the following options:

• Date: Sets the Month, Date, Year and day of the week for the real-time clock/calendar.

• Time: Sets the Hour, Minute and Second for the RPS real time clock/calendar. Key in the
time using the 24-hour (military) format.

• TimeZone: Sets the time zone, relative to Greenwich Mean Time. Note that the Time
Zone setting will function differently, depending upon whether or not the NTP feature is
enabled and properly congured. (Default = GMT (No DST).)



NTPEnabled: The Time Zone setting is used to adjust the Greenwich Mean Time

value (received from the NTP server) in order to determine the precise local time for
the selected time zone.



NTPDisabled: If NTP is disabled, or if the RPS is not able to access the NTP server,

then status screens and activity logs will list the selected Time Zone and current Real
Time Clock value, but will not apply the correction factor to the displayed Real Time
Clock value.

• NTPEnable: When enabled, the RPS will contact an NTP server (dened via the NTP
Address prompts) once a day, and update its clock based on the NTP server time and
selected Time Zone. (Default = Off.)

Notes:

• The RPS will also contact the NTP server and update the time whenever you

change NTP parameters.

• To cause RPS to immediately contact the NTP server at any time, make certain

that the NTP feature is enabled and congured, then type /F and press [Enter].
When the System Parameters menu appears, press [Esc]. The RPS will save
parameters and then attempt to contact the server, as specied by currently
dened NTP parameters.

• PrimaryNTPAddress: Denes the IP address or domain name (up to 64 characters long)
for the primary NTP server. (Default = undened.)

Note: In order to use domain names for web addresses, DNS parameters must rst
be dened as described in Section 5.9.5.

• SecondaryNTPAddress: Denes the IP address or domain name (up to 64 characters
long) for the secondary, fallback NTP Server. (Default = undened.)

Note: In order to use domain names for web addresses, DNS parameters must be
dened as described in Section 5.9.5.

5-6

Basic Configuration

• NTPTimeout: The amount of time in seconds, that will elapse between each attempt to
contact the NTP server. When the initial attempt is unsuccessful, the RPS will retry the
connection four times. If neither the primary nor secondary NTP server responds, the RPS
will wait 24 hours before attempting to contact the NTP server again.
(Default = 3 Seconds.)

• TestNTPServers: (Text Interface Only) Allows you to ping the IP addresses or domain
names dened via the Primary and Secondary NTP Address prompts, or to ping a new
address or domain dened via the Test NTP Servers submenu in order to check that a valid
IP address or domain name has been entered.

Note: In order for the Test NTP Servers feature to function, your network and/or
rewall must be congured to allow ping commands.

5.3.2. The Invalid Access Lockout Feature

When properly congured and enabled, the Invalid Access Lockout feature can watch all login
attempts made via Telnet connection, web browser or the serial SetUp Port. If the counter for any
of these exceeds the user-dened threshold for maximum invalid attempts, then the corresponding
port or protocol will be automatically disabled for the length of time specied by the Lockout
Duration parameter.

When Invalid Access Attempt monitoring is enabled for the serial SetUp Port, the RPS will
count invalid access attempts at the serial SetUp Port. If the number of invalid access attempts
exceeds the dened Lockout Attempts trigger value, the RPS will lock the serial SetUp Port for
the dened Lockout Duration period. When Invalid Access Attempt monitoring for Telnet or Web
are selected, a lockout will be triggered when the number of invalid access attempts during the
dened Lockout Duration period exceeds the dened Hit Count for the protocol. For example,
if the Telnet Hit Count is set at 10 and the Telnet Lockout Duration period is set at 120 seconds,
then if over 10 invalid access attempts are detected within 120 seconds, the RPS will then lock
out the MAC address that generated the excessive attempts for 120 seconds.

Note that when an Invalid Access Lockout occurs, you can either wait for the Lockout Duration
period to elapse (after which, the RPS will automatically reactivate the port or protocol), or you
can issue the /UL command (type /UL and press [Enter]) via the Text Interface to instantly
unlock all RPS logical network ports and communication protocols.

Note: If the Network Port has been locked by the Invalid Access Lockout feature, it
will still respond to the ping command (providing that the ping command has not been
disabled at the Network Port.)

5-7

Basic Configuration

The Invalid Access Lockout conguration menus allow you to select the following parameters:

• SerialPortProtection: Enables/Disables the Invalid Access Lockout function for the
serial SetUp Port and selects lockout parameters. When this item is enabled and excessive
Invalid Access attempts are detected at the SetUp Port, the SetUp Port will be locked until
the user-dened Lockout Duration period elapses, or until the /UL command is issued.

• SerialPortProtection: Enables/Disables the Invalid Access Lockout feature for the

SetUp Port. (Default = Off.)

• LockoutAttempts: The number of invalid attempts that must occur in order to

trigger the Invalid Access Lockout feature at the SetUp Port. (Default = 9.)

• LockoutDuration: This option selects the length of time that the serial SetUp Port

will remain locked when Invalid Access Lockout occurs. If the duration is set at
"Innite", then ports will remained locked until the /UL command is issued.
(Default = 30 Minutes.)

• TelnetProtection: Enables/Disables and congures the Invalid Access function for Telnet
connections. When this item is enabled and excessive Invalid Access Attempts via Telnet
are detected, then the RPS will lock out the offending MAC address for the user-dened
Telnet Lockout Duration Period or until the /UL command is issued. Note that for Telnet
protection, the lockout trigger is a function of the Telnet Hit Count parameter and the
Telnet Lockout Duration Parameter.

• LockoutEnable: Enables/Disables Invalid Access Lockout protection for Telnet

connections. (Default = Off.)

• TelnetHitCount: The number of invalid attempts that must occur during the length

of time specied by the Telnet Lockout Duration period in order to trigger the Invalid
Access Lockout feature for the Telnet protocol. For example, if the Telnet Hit Count
parameter is set to 10 and the Telnet Lockout Duration parameter is set to 30 minutes,
then the RPS will lock out the offending MAC address for 30 minutes when over 10
invalid access attempts occur during any 30 minute long period. (Default = 5.)

• TelnetLockoutDuration: This option selects both the length of time that a Telnet

Lockout will remain in effect and also the time period over which invalid access
attempts will be counted. When a Telnet Lockout occurs, the offending MAC address
will be prevented from establishing a Telnet connection to the RPS for the dened
Telnet Lockout Duration period. (Default = 120 Seconds.)

5-8

Basic Configuration

• WebProtection: Enables/Disables and congures the Invalid Access function for Web
connections. When this item is enabled and excessive Invalid Access Attempts via Web
are detected, then the RPS will lock out the offending MAC address for the user-dened
Web Lockout Duration Period or until the /UL command is issued. Note that for Web
protection, the lockout trigger is a function of the Web Hit Count parameter and the Web
Lockout Duration Parameter.

• LockoutEnable: Enables/Disables Invalid Access Lockout protection for web

connections. (Default = Off.)

• WebHitCount: The number of invalid attempts that must occur during the length

of time specied by the Web Lockout Duration period in order to trigger the Invalid
Access Lockout feature for Web access. For example, if the Web Hit Count parameter
is set to 10 and the Web Lockout Duration parameter is set to 30 minutes, then the
RPS will lock out the offending MAC address for 30 minutes when over 10 invalid
access attempts occur during any 30 minute long period. (Default = 20.)

• WebLockoutDuration: This option selects both the length of time that a Web

Lockout will remain in effect and also the time period over which invalid access
attempts will be counted. When a Web Lockout occurs, the offending MAC address
will be prevented from establishing a Web connection to the RPS for the dened
Telnet Lockout Duration period. (Default = 60 Seconds.)

5.3.3. Log Configuration

This feature allows you to create records of command activity and temperature readings for the
RPS unit. The Log features are enabled and congured via the System Parameters Menus.

• AuditLog: Creates a record of all power switching at the RPS unit, including reboots.
Each Log record includes a description of the activity that caused the power switching, the
username for the account that initiated the power switching or reboot and the time and date
that the power switching or reboot occurred. In addition to power switching activity, the
Audit Log will also include login/logout activity for each user account.

• AlarmLog: This feature is not used at this time and is reserved for future rmware
upgrades.

• TemperatureLog: The Temperature Log provides a record of temperature levels over
time at the RPS unit. Each Log record will include the time and date, and the temperature
reading.

5-9

Basic Configuration

5.3.3.1. AuditLogConfigurationOptions

The Log Conguration options in the System Parameters menu allows you to enable/disable and
congure the Audit Log. The Audit Log offers the following parameters:

• Off: The Log is disabled, and command activity will not be logged. (Default Setting.)

• On-WithSyslog: The Log is enabled, and power switching and user activity will be
logged. The RPS will generate a Syslog Message every time a Log record is created.

• On-WithoutSyslog: The Log is enabled, and power switching, login/logout activity will
be recorded, but the RPS will not generate a Syslog Message every time a Log record is
created.

Notes:

• In order for the Audit Log to generate Syslog Messages, Syslog Parameters must

rst be dened as described in Section 8.

• The Audit Log will truncate usernames that are longer than 22 characters, and

display two dots (..) in place of the remaining characters.

5.3.3.2. Reading,DownloadingandErasingLogs

To read or download the status logs, proceed as follows:

• TextInterface: Type /L and press [Enter] to access the Display Log menu. Select
the desired option, key in the appropriate number, press [Enter] and then follow the
instructions in the "Display Logs" submenu. In the text interface, The Display Logs menu
is used to download or display the Audit Log and Temperature Log.

• WebBrowserInterface: Move the cursor over the "Current Metering," "Power
Metering" or "Logs" link. When the yout menu appears, click on the desired option and
then follow the instructions in the resulting submenu.

To erase logged data, proceed as follows:

• AuditLog: The Audit Log can be displayed or downloaded via either Text Interface or
Web Browser Interface. When the Audit Log is displayed via the Text Interface, the RPS
will also offer the option to erase Audit Log data.

• TemperatureLog: The Temperature Log can be displayed or downloaded via either Text
Interface or Web Browser Interface. When the Temperature Log is displayed via Text
Interface, the RPS will also offer the option to erase Temperature Log data.

5-10

Basic Configuration

5.3.4. Callback Security

The Callback function provides an additional layer of security when callers attempt to access
command mode via modem. When this function is properly congured, modem users will not be
granted immediate access to command mode; instead, the unit will disconnect, and dial a user­dened number before allowing access via that number. If desired, users may also be required to
re-enter the password after the RPS dials back.

In order for Callback Security to function properly, you must rst enable and congure the feature
via the System Parameters menu as described in this section, and then dene a callback number
for each desired user account as described in Section 5.5. To access the Callback Security menu
via the Text Interface, type /F and press [Enter]and then select the Callback Security option.
To access the Callback Security menu via the Web Browser Interface, place the cursor over the
General Parameters link, wait for the yout menu to appear, and then Click on the "Callback
Security" link.

Note: RPS Password features will not function unless at least one user account has
been dened, and the RPS Mode feature is disabled (See Section 5.3.5.)

In both the Text Interface and Web Browser Interface, the Callback Security Menu offers the
following options:

• CallbackEnable: This prompt offers ve different conguration options for the Callback
Security feature: (Default = On - Callback (Without Password Prompt.)



Off: All Callback Security is disabled.



On-Callback(WithoutPasswordPrompt): Callbacks will be performed for user

accounts that include a Callback Number, and the login prompt will not be displayed
when the user’s modem answers. If the account does not include a Callback Number,
that user will be granted immediate access.



On-Callback(WithPasswordPrompt): Callbacks will be performed for user

accounts that include a Callback Number, and the login prompt will be displayed when
the user’s modem answers (accounts that include a Callback Number will be required
to re-enter their username/password when their modem answers.) If the account does
not include a Callback Number, then that user will be granted immediate access.



On-CallbackONLY(WithoutPasswordPrompt): Callbacks will be performed

for user accounts that include a Callback Number, and the username/password prompt
will not be displayed when the user’s modem answers. Accounts that do not include a
Callback Number will not be able to access command mode via modem.



On-CallbackONLY(WithPasswordPrompt): Callbacks will be performed for

accounts that include a Callback Number, and the username/password prompt will
be displayed when the user’s modem answers (users will be required to re-enter their
username/password when their modem answers.) Accounts that do not include a
Callback Number will not be able to access command mode via modem.

5-11

Basic Configuration

• CallbackAttempts: The number of times that the RPS will attempt to contact the
Callback number. (Default = 3 attempts.)

• CallbackDelay: The amount of time that the RPS will wait between Callback attempts.
(Default = 30 seconds.)

Notes:

• After conguring and enabling Callback Security, you must then dene a callback

phone number for each desired user account (as described in Section 5.5) in
order for this feature to function properly.

• When using the "On - Callback (With Password Prompt)" option, it is important

to remember that accounts that do not include a callback number will be allowed
to access command mode without callback verication.

5.3.5. Scripting Options

The Scripting Options submenu provides access to parameters that are used to set up the RPS unit
for running various scripts.

Notes:

• To access Scripting Options parameters via the Text Interface, rst type /F and

press [Enter]to display the System Parameters Menu, then key in the number for
the Scripting Options item and press [Enter].

• To access the Scripting Options parameters via the Web Browser Interface, place

the cursor over the "General Parameters" link, wait for the yout menu to appear,
then click on the "Scripting Options" link.

The Scripting Options menu allows the following parameters to be dened:

• CommandConrmation: Enables/Disables the Command Conrmation feature. When
enabled, a "Sure" prompt will be displayed before power switching and reboot commands
are executed. When disabled, commands will be executed without further prompting.
(Default = On.)

• AutomatedMode: When enabled, the RPS will execute switching and reboot commands
without displaying a conrmation prompt, status screen or conrmation messages. For
more information, please refer to Section 5.3.5.1 or Section 7.3. (Default = Off.)

Notes:

• When Automated Mode is enabled, security functions are suppressed, and users

are able to access conguration menus and control plugs without entering
a password. If security is a concern and Automated Mode is required, it is
recommended to use the IP Security feature (Section 5.9.3) to restrict access.

• RPS Password features will not function unless at least one user account has been

dened, and the RPS Mode feature is disabled (See Section 5.3.5.)

5-12

Basic Configuration

• CommandPrompt: Allows the Text Interface command prompt to be set to either MPC,
VMR, RPS, CCM or NPS. (Default = RPS.)

• RPSMode: This parameter sets up the RPS for use with command scripts. When the
RPS Mode is enabled, the "RPS" command prompt will be displayed in the Text Mode,
User Accounts will not allow denition of a Username, and the username and password
prompts will be not displayed when logging into the unit via Text Interface.
(Default = On.)

• The "RPS" command prompt will be displayed in the Text Mode.

• Providing that no Administrator level user accounts have been dened, the RPS will

not display the username or password prompts upon login to command mode.

• If one or more Administrator level user accounts have been dened, then the RPS will

only display the password prompt upon login to command mode. If all Administrator
level user accounts (aside from the default "super" account) are deleted, then the RPS
will return to the status where no username or password prompts are displayed upon
login to command mode.

5-13

Basic Configuration

5.3.5.1. AutomatedMode

The Automated Mode allows the RPS to execute switching and reboot commands, without
displaying menus or generating response messages. Automated Mode is designed to allow the
RPS to be controlled by a device which can generate commands to control power switching
functions without human intervention.

When Automated Mode is enabled, power switching and reboot commands are executed
without a conrmation prompt and without command response messages; the only reply to these
commands is the command prompt, which is re-displayed when each command is completed.

Although Automated Mode can be enabled via either the Web Browser Interface or Text Interface,
Automated Mode is designed primarily for users who wish to send ASCII commands to the RPS
without operator intervention, and therefore does not specically apply to the Web Browser
Interface. When Automated Mode is enabled, the Web Browser Interface can still be used to
invoke switching and reboot commands.

Notes:

• When the Automated Mode is enabled, password prompts will not be displayed

at login, and you will be able to access Administrator Level command functions
(including the conguration menus) and control plugs without entering a
password.

• If you need to enable the Automated Mode, but want to restrict network access to

conguration menus, it is strongly recommended to enable and congure the IP
Security Function as described in Section 5.9.3.

To enable/disable the Automated Mode, go to the System Parameters menu (see Section 5.3,)
access the Scripting Options submenu and then set the “Automated Mode” option to “On”. When
Automated Mode is enabled, RPS functions will change as follows:

1. AllPasswordSecuritySuppressed: When a user attempts to access command mode, the
password prompt will not be displayed at either the Setup Port or Network Port. Unless
specically restricted by the IP Security Function, all users will be allowed to access both
switching and conguration functions, and all commands will be immediately accepted
without the requirement to enter a password.

2. StatusScreenSuppressed: The plug status screen will not be displayed after commands
are successfully executed. Note however, that the /S command can still be invoked to
display the status screen as needed.

3. “Sure?”PromptSuppressed: All commands are executed without prompting for user
conrmation.

4. ErrorMessagesSuppressed: Most error messages will be suppressed. Note however,
that an error message will still be generated if commands are invoked using invalid formats
or arguments.

All other status display and conguration commands will still function as normal.

5-14

Basic Configuration

5.4. User Accounts

If desired, the RPS can be congured to prompt users to enter a password before being allowed
to access command mode. The password entered at login can then be used to determine which
outlet(s) each user will be allowed to control and what type of commands the user will be allowed
to invoke. Each password and associated access rights are dened within a "user account."

The RPS allows up to 128 user accounts; each account includes a username, password, security
level, plug access rights, service access rights and an optional callback number.

Notes:

• In order for the RPS to display the password prompt, at least one user account

must be dened via the User Directory function.

• In order to display both a password prompt and username prompt, the RPS mode

must be disabled as described in Section 5.3.5.

5.4.1. Command Access Levels

In order to restrict access to important command functions, the RPS allows you to set the
command access level for each user account. The RPS offers four access levels: Administrator,
SuperUser, User and View Only. Command privileges for each account are set using the "Access
Level" parameter in the Add User or Modify User menus.

Each access level grants permission to use a different selection of commands; lower access levels
are restricted from invoking conguration commands, while Administrators are granted access to
all commands. The four different access levels are listed below:

• Administrator: Administrators are allowed to invoke all conguration and power
switching commands, can view all status screens, and can always direct switching
commands to all RPS switched outlets .

• SuperUser: SuperUsers are allowed to invoke all power switching commands and view
all status screens. SuperUsers can view conguration menus, but are not allowed to
change conguration parameters. SuperUsers are granted access to all RPS outlets.

• User: Users are allowed to invoke power switching commands and view all status
screens, but can only apply commands to outlets that they are specically granted access
to. In addition, Users are not allowed to view conguration menus or change conguration
parameters.

• ViewOnly: Accounts with ViewOnly access, are allowed to view Status Menus, but are
not allowed to invoke switching commands, and cannot view conguration menus or
change parameters. ViewOnly accounts can display the Plug Status screen, but can only
view the status of plugs that are allowed by the account.

Section 11.2 summarizes command access for all four access levels.

5-15

Basic Configuration

In the default state, the RPS includes one predened account that provides access to
Administrator commands and allows control of all RPS switched power outlets. The default
username for this account is "super" (lowercase, no quotation marks), and the password for the
account is also "super".

Notes:

• If the RPS will be used in Non-RPS mode and security is a concern, it is

recommended that when initially setting up the unit, a new user account with
Administrator access should be created, and the "super" account should then
be deleted.

• If the RPS is reset to default parameters, all user accounts will be cleared, and

the default "super" account will be restored.

5.4.2. Plug Access

Each account can be granted access to a different selection of power outlets (plugs) and plug
groups. When accounts are created, the Plug Access parameter and the Plug Group Access
parameter in the Add User menu or Modify User menu are used to grant or deny access to each
plug or plug group. In addition, each access level also restricts the plugs and plug groups that the
account will be allowed to access:

• Administrator: Administrator level accounts are always allowed to control all plugs and
plug groups. Plug access cannot be disabled for Administrator level accounts.

• SuperUser: SuperUser accounts allow access to all plugs and plug groups. Port access
cannot be disabled for SuperUser accounts.

• User: User level accounts are only allowed to issue switching commands to the plugs and
plug groups that have been specically permitted via the "Plug Access" parameter in the
Add User and Modify User menus.

• ViewOnly: ViewOnly level accounts are not allowed to issue switching commands.
ViewOnly accounts can display the On/Off state of plugs and plug groups, but are limited
to the plugs and plug groups specied by the account.

5.4.3. Port Access

The Port Access parameter is used to grant or deny access to the RPS RJ45 Setup Port. Normally,
the Setup port is used for connection to a local control device or an external modem.

The command access level will also determine which ports the account will be allowed to access,
as summarized below:

• AdministratorandSuperUser: Accounts with Administrator or SuperUser level
command access are always allowed to connect to the Setup Port. Port access cannot be
disabled for Administrator and SuperUser level accounts.

• User: User level accounts are only allowed to connect to the Setup Port when port access
has been specically enabled for the account.

• ViewOnly: Accounts with ViewOnly access are not allowed to create connections to the
Setup Port.

5-16

Basic Configuration

5.5. Managing User Accounts

The User Directory function is employed to create new accounts, display parameters for existing
accounts, modify accounts and delete accounts. Up to 128 different user accounts can be created.
The "User Directory" function is only available when you have logged into command mode using
an account that permits Administrator commands.

In both the Text Interface and the Web Browser Interface, the User Directory menu offers the
following functions:

• ViewUserDirectory: Displays currently dened parameters for any RPS user account as
described in Section 5.5.1.

• AddUsername: Creates new user accounts and allows you to assign a username,
password, command level, plug access plug group access, service access and callback
number, as described in Section 5.5.2.

• ModifyUserDirectory: This option is used to edit or change account information, as
described in Section 5.5.3.

• DeleteUser: Clears user accounts, as described in Section 5.5.4.

Note: After you have nished selecting or editing user account parameters, make
certain to save the new account information before proceeding. In the Web Browser
Interface, click on the "Add User" button to save parameters; in the Text Interface,
press the [Esc] key several times until the RPS displays the "Saving Conguration"
message and the cursor returns to the command prompt.

5.5.1. Viewing User Accounts

The "View User Directory" option allows you to view details about each account. The View User
option will not display actual passwords, and instead, the password eld will read "dened". The
View User Accounts function is only available when you have accessed command mode using a
password that permits Administrator Level commands.

5.5.2. Adding User Accounts

The "Add Username" option allows you to create new accounts. Note that the Add User function
is only available when you have accessed command mode using a password that permits
Administrator Level commands. The Add User Menu can dene the following parameters for
each new account:

• Username: Up to 32 characters long, and cannot include non-printable characters.
Duplicate usernames are not allowed. (Default = undened.)

Note: The username parameter is only available when the RPS mode has been
disabled as described in Section 5.3.5.

• Password: Five to sixteen characters long, and cannot include non-printable characters.
Note that passwords are case sensitive. (Default = undened.)

5-17

Basic Configuration

• AccessLevel: Determines which commands this account will be allowed to access. This
option can set the access level for this account to "Administrator", "SuperUser", "User"
or "ViewOnly." For more information on Command Access Levels, please refer to
Section 5.4.1 and Section 11.2. (Default = User.)

• PortAccess: Determines whether or not the account will be allowed to connect to the
serial Setup Port. (Defaults; Administrator and SuperUser = Always Enabled, User =
Disabled.)

Note: ViewOnly level accounts cannot be granted access to the Setup Port.

• PlugAccess: Determines which outlet(s) this account will be allowed to control.
(Defaults; Administrator and SuperUser = All Plugs On, User = All Plugs Off,
ViewOnly = All Plugs Off.)

Notes:

• Administrator and SuperUser level accounts always have access to all plugs.

• User level accounts will only have access to the plugs that are dened via the

"Plug Access" parameter.

• ViewOnly accounts are allowed to display the Plug Status Screen, but are limited

to the plugs specied by the account. ViewOnly accounts are not allowed to
invoke switching and reboot commands.

• PlugGroupAccess: Determines which plug groups this account will be allowed to
control. For more information on Plug Groups, please refer to Section 5.6.
(Defaults; Administrator and SuperUser = All Plug Groups On, User = All Plug Groups
Off, ViewOnly = All Plug Groups Off.)

Notes:

• In order to use this feature, Plug Groups must rst be dened as described in

Section 5.6.

• Administrator and SuperUser level accounts will always have access to all plug

groups.

• User Level accounts will only have access to the plug groups that are dened via

the Plug Group Access parameter.

• ViewOnly accounts are allowed to display the On/Off status of plug groups via the

Plug Status Screen, but are limited to the plug groups specied by the account.
ViewOnly accounts are not allowed to invoke switching and reboot commands.

• ServiceAccess: Determines whether this account will be able to access command mode
via Serial Port, Telnet or Web. For example, if Telnet Access is disabled for this account,
then this account will not be able to access command mode via Telnet. (Default = Serial
Port = On, Telnet = On, Web = On.)

5-18

Basic Configuration

• CallbackNumber: Assigns a number that will be called when this account attempts to
access command mode via modem, and the Callback Security Function has been enabled
as described in Section 5.3.4. (Default = undened.)

Notes:

• If the Callback Number is not dened, then Callbacks will not be performed for

this user.

• If the Callback Number is not dened for a given user, and the Callback Security

feature is congured to use either of the "On - Callback" options, then this user
will be granted immediate access to command mode via modem.

• If the Callback Number is not dened for a given user, and the Callback Security

feature is congured to use the "On - Callback ONLY" option, then this user will
not be able to access command mode via Modem.

• When using the "On - Callback (With Password Prompt)" option, it is important

to remember that accounts that do not include a callback number will be allowed
to access command mode without callback verication.

Note: After you have nished selecting or editing account parameters, make certain
to save account information before proceeding. In the Web Browser Interface, click
on the "Add User" button to save parameters; in the Text Interface, press the [Esc]
key several times until the RPS displays the "Saving Conguration" message and the
cursor returns to the command prompt.

5.5.3. Modifying User Accounts

The "Edit User Directory" function allows you to edit existing accounts in order to change
parameters, plug access rights or Administrator Command capability. Note that the Edit/Modify
User function is only available when you have accessed command mode using a password that
permits Administrator Level commands.

Once you have accessed the Modify Users menu, use the menu options to redene parameters in
the same manner employed for the Add User menu, as discussed in Section 5.5.2.

Note: After changing parameters, make certain to save changes before proceeding.
In the Web Browser Interface, click on the "Modify User" button to save parameters;
in the Text Interface, press the [Esc] key several times until the RPS displays the
"Saving Conguration" message.

5.5.4. Deleting User Accounts

This function is used to delete individual user accounts. Note that the Delete User function
is only available when you have accessed command mode using a password that permits
Administrator Level commands.

Notes:

• Deleted accounts cannot be automatically restored.

• The RPS allows you to delete the default "super" account. Before deleting

the "super" account, make certain to create another account that permits
Administrator Access. You must retain at least one account with Administrator
Access in order to provide access to Administrator level commands.

5-19

Basic Configuration

5.6. The Plug Group Directory

The Plug Group Directory allows you to designate "groups" of plugs that are dedicated to a
similar function, and will most likely be switched or rebooted all at the same time or controlled
by the same type of user account.

For example, an individual equipment rack might include an assortment of devices that belong
to different departments or clients. In order to simplify the process of granting plug access
rights, you could assign all of the plugs for the devices belonging to Department A to a Plug
Group named "Dept_A", and all of the plugs for devices belonging to Department B to a Plug
Group named "Dept_B". When user accounts are dened, this would allow you to quickly grant
access rights for all of the plugs for the devices belonging to Department A to the appropriate
user accounts, by merely granting access to the Dept_A Plug Group, rather than by selecting the
specic, individual plugs for each user account.

Likewise, Plug Groups allow you to direct On/Off/Boot commands to a series of plugs, without
addressing each plug individually. Given the example above, you could quickly reboot all plugs
for Department A, by either including the "Dept_A" Plug Group name in a /BOOT command line
via the Text Interface, or by using the Plug Group Control menu in the Web Browser Interface.

The Plug Group Directory function is only available when you have logged into command mode
using an account that permits Administrator commands. In both the Text Interface and the Web
Browser Interface, the Plug Group Directory menu offers the following functions:

• ViewPlugGroupDirectory: Displays currently dened plug access rights for any RPS
Plug Group as described in Section 5.6.1.

• AddPlugGrouptoDirectory: Creates new Plug Groups, and allows you to assign plug
access rights to each group as described in Section 5.6.2.

• ModifyPlugGroupDirectory: This option is used to edit or change plug access rights
for each Plug Group, as described in Section 5.6.3.

• DeletePlugGroupfromDirectory: Clears Plug Groups that are no longer needed, as
described in Section 5.6.4.

5.6.1. Viewing Plug Groups

The "View Plug Group Directory" option allows you to view the conguration of each Plug
Group. Note that the View Plug Group Directory function is only available when you have
accessed command mode using a password that permits Administrator Level commands. In the
Web Browser Interface, the Plug Group Directory can be viewed by clicking on the link on the
left hand side of the page. In the Text Interface, the Plug Group Directory can be viewed by
typing /G and pressing [Enter] and then selecting the option from the resulting submenu.

5-20

Basic Configuration

5.6.2. Adding Plug Groups

The "Add Plug Group to Directory" option allows you to create new Plug Groups and assign
plug access rights to each group. The Add Plug Group function is only available when you have
accessed command mode using a password that permits Administrator Level commands.

The Add Plug Group Menu can be used to dene the following parameters for each new account:

• PlugGroupName: Assigns a name to the Plug Group. (Default = undened.)

• PlugAccess: Determines which plugs this Plug Group will be allowed to control.
(Default = undened.)

Note: After you have nished dening or editing Plug Group parameters, make
certain to save changes before proceeding. In the Web Browser Interface, click on the
"Add Plug Group" button to save parameters; in the Text Interface, press the [Esc]
key several times until the RPS displays the "Saving Conguration" message and the
cursor returns to the command prompt.

5.6.3. Modifying Plug Groups

The "Modify Plug Group" function allows you to edit existing Plug Groups in order to change
plug access rights. Note that this function is only available when you have accessed command
mode using a password that permits Administrator Level commands.

Once you have accessed the Modify Plug Group menu, use the menu options to redene
parameters in the same manner that is used when adding Plug Groups, as discussed in
Section 5.6.2.

Note: After you have nished changing or editing parameters, make certain to save
the changes before proceeding. In the Web Browser Interface, click on the "Modify
Plug Groups" button to save parameters; in the Text Interface, press the [Esc] key
several times until the RPS displays the "Saving Conguration" message and the
cursor returns to the command prompt.

5.6.4. Deleting Plug Groups

This function is used to delete individual Plug Groups. Note that this function is only available
when you have accessed command mode using a password that permits Administrator Level
commands.

Note: Deleted Plug Groups cannot be automatically restored.

5-21

Basic Configuration

5.7. Defining Plug Parameters

The Plug Parameters Menu is used to dene Plug Names, boot/sequence delay times and Power
Up Default values for each RPS Switched AC Outlets. Note that this function is only available
when you have accessed command mode using a password that permits Administrator Level
commands. The Plug Parameters Menu allows you to dene the following parameters:

• PlugName: (Up to 16 Characters.)

Note: Plug Names must begin with either a lower case alphabetic letter or upper
case alphabetic letter. Plug Names cannot begin with a number or a symbol.

• Boot/Seq.Delay: When more than one plug is switched On or a reboot cycle is initiated,
the Boot/Sequence delay determines how much time will elapse before the next plug
is switched On. When the Boot/Sequence Delay is applied, the RPS will wait for the
user-dened delay period before switching On the next plug. When Reboot cycles and
switching actions are initiated, the Boot/Sequence Delay will be applied as follows:
(Default = 0.5 Second.)



 RebootCycleDelay: During a reboot cycle, the RPS will rst switch all selected

plugs "Off" (with a 0.5 second pause between each "Off" operation), and then begin
to switch selected plugs back On again, pausing for the user-dened Boot/Sequence
Delay before switching On the next plug. For example, if the Boot/Sequence Delay
for Plug 3 is ten seconds, then the RPS will pause for ten seconds before proceeding to
the next plug.



 "On"SequenceDelay: When two or more plugs are switched On, the RPS will

pause for the user-dened Boot/Sequence Delay before switching the next plug.

• PowerUpDefault: Determines how this plug will react when the Default command
(/DPL) is invoked, or after power to the unit has been interrupted and then restored. After
the default command is invoked, or power is restored, the RPS will automatically switch
each plug On or Off as specied by the Power-Up Default. (Default = On).

Note:

• If you have accessed command mode using an account that permits Administrator

or SuperUser level commands, then the Default command will be applied to all
switched plugs.

• If you have accessed command mode via an User Level account, then the Default

command will only be applied to plugs allowed by your account.

• BootPriority: The Boot Priority parameter determines the order in which plugs will
be switched On. The Plug that has been assigned a Boot Priority of "1" will always
be switched on rst, followed by the plug that has been assigned the Boot Priority of
"2", and so forth. For more information on the Boot Priority parameter, please refer to
Section 5.7.1. (Default = All plugs prioritized according to Plug Number.)

5-22

Basic Configuration

5.7.1. The Boot Priority Parameter

Normally, when an "On" or "Reboot" command is invoked, the RPS will switch on its plugs in
their default, numeric order. Although in many cases, the default, numeric order will work ne,
there are other cases where an individual device (such as a router) must be switched on rst, in
order to support a second device that will be switched on later.

The Boot Priority Parameter simplies the process of setting the order in which plugs are
switched On, by assigning a priority number to each plug, rather than by requiring the user to
make certain that devices are always connected to the RPS in a set order. Likewise, when new
devices are added to your equipment rack, the Boot Priority Parameter eliminates the need to
unplug all existing devices and then rearrange the plugs connected to the RPS (and re-dene plug
parameters) to ensure that they are switched on in the desired order.

Notes:

• No two plugs can be assigned the same Boot Priority number.

• When a higher Boot Priority is assigned to any given plug, all subsequent plugs

will have their boot priorities lowered by a factor of 1.

• The Boot Priority is also displayed on the Plug Status Screen.

5.7.1.1. Example1:ChangePlugA3toPriority1

In the Example shown in Figure 5.1, we start out with all Plugs set to their default Boot Priorities,
with Plug A1 rst, Plug A2 second and so forth.

Next, the Boot Priority for Plug A3 is changed to Priority 1. This means that Plug A3 will now be
switched On rst after a reboot, and that Plug A1 will now be switched On second, Plug A2 will
be third, etc..

Note that when the Boot Priority for Plug A3 is set to 1, the Boot Priorities for all plugs that were
previously Booted before plug A1 are now lowered by a factor of one.

BEFORE

(Plug No.) Priority

(A1) 1

(A2) 2

(A3) 3

(A4) 4

(A5) 5

(A6) 6

Figure 5.1: Boot Priority Example 1

(Assign Plug A3

to Priority 1)

1

AFTER

(Plug No.) Priority

(A1) 2

(A2) 3

(A3) 1

(A4) 4

(A5) 5

(A6) 6

5-23

Basic Configuration

5.7.1.2. Example2:ChangePlugA5toPriority2

In the second Example shown in Figure 5.2, we start out with Boot Priorities for the plugs set as
they were at the end of Example 1; Plug A3 is rst, Plug A1 is second, Plug A2 is third, Plug A4
is fourth, and Plug A6 is sixth.

Next, the Boot Priority for Plug A5 is changed to Priority 2. This means that Plug A3 will
continue to be switched on rst after a reboot, but now Plug A5 will be switched on second, Plug
A3 will be third, Plug A2 will be fourth, Plug A4 will be fth and Plug A6 will still be sixth.

Once again, note that when the Boot Priority for Plug A5 is set to 2, the Boot Priorities for all
plugs that were previously Booted before plug A5 are now lowered by a factor of one

BEFORE

(Plug No.) Priority

(A1) 2

(A2) 3

(A3) 1

(A4) 4

(A5) 5

(A6) 6

Figure 5.2: Boot Priority Example 2

(Assign Plug A5

to Priority 2)

2

AFTER

(Plug No.) Priority

(A1) 3

(A2) 4

(A3) 1

(A4) 5

(A5) 2

(A6) 6

5-24

Basic Configuration

5.8. Serial Port Configuration

The Serial Port Conguration menus allow you to select parameters for the RPS Setup Port.
The Setup Port (Port 1) can be congured for connection to a local PC or Modem. In addition,
the Serial Port Conguration menu (Port Parameters) can also be used to set communications
parameters, disable Administrator level commands at the Setup Port and also select a number of
other Setup Port Parameters described below..

The Setup Port Conguration menu allows the following parameters to be dened:

CommunicationSettings:

• BaudRate: Any standard rate from 300 bps to 115.2K bps. (Default = 9600 bps)

• Bits/Parity: (Default = 8-None).

• StopBits: (Default = 1).

• HandshakeMode: XON/XOFF, RTS/CTS (hardware), Both, or None.
(Default = RTS/CTS).

GeneralParameters:

• AdministratorMode: Permits/denies port access to Administrator and SuperUser level
accounts. When enabled (Permit), the port will be allowed to invoke Administrator and
SuperUser level commands, providing they are issued by an account that permits them. If
disabled (Deny), then accounts that permit Administrator and SuperUser level commands
will not be allowed to access command mode via this port. (Default = Permit).

• LogoffCharacter: The Logoff Character determines the command(s) or character(s) that
must be issued at this port in order to disconnect this port from another port. Note that the
Logoff Character does not apply to Direct Connections. (Default = ^X.)

• SequenceDisconnect: Enables/Disables and congures the disconnect command. This
item offers the option to disable the Sequence Disconnect, select a one character format or
a three character format. (Default = One Character.)

• InactivityTimeout: Enables and selects the Timeout Period for this port. If enabled, the
Setup Port will disconnect when no additional data activity is detected for the duration of
the timeout period. (Default = 5 Minutes.)

• CommandEcho: Enables or Disables command echo at the Setup Port. When disabled,
commands that are sent to the Setup Port will still be invoked, but the actual keystrokes
will not be displayed on your monitor. (Default = On.)

• AcceptBreak: Determines whether the port will accept breaks received from the attached
device. When enabled, breaks received at the port will be passed to any port that this port
is connected to. When disabled, breaks will be refused at this port. (Default = On.)

5-25

Basic Configuration

PortModeParameters:

• PortName: Allows you to assign a name to the Setup Port. (Default = undened.)

• PortMode: The operation mode for this port. (Default = Normal Mode)

Depending on the Port Mode selected, the RPS will display additional prompts listed

below. In the Text Interface, these parameters are accessible via a submenu, which will
only be active when the appropriate port mode is selected. In the Web Browser Interface,
elds will be "grayed out" unless the corresponding port mode is selected.



NormalMode:Allows communication with a local PC and permits access to

command mode. When the Normal Mode is selected, the following mode-specic
parameter can also be dened:

 DTROutput: Determines how DTR will react when the port disconnects. DTR

can be held low, held high, or pulsed for 0.5 seconds and then held high.
(Default = Pulse.)



 ModemMode: Permits access to command mode and simplies connection to an

external modem. Modem Mode ports can perform all functions normally available in
Normal Mode, but Modem Mode also allows denition of the following, additional
parameters:

 ResetString: Redenes the modem reset string. The Reset String can be sent

prior to the Initialization string. (Default = ATZ.)

 InitializationString: Denes a command string that can be sent to

initialize a modem to settings required by your application. (Default =
ATE0M0Q1&C1&D2S0=1)

 Hang-UpString: Although the RPS will pulse the DTR line to hang-up an

attached modem, the Hang-Up string is often useful for controlling modems that
do not use the DTR line. (Default = undened.)

 PeriodicResetValue: Determines how often the Reset String will be sent to the

modem at this port.

 NoDialtoneEnable: This feature is not currently active, and is reserved for

future use. (Default = Off.)

Note: When communicating with the RPS via modem, these parameters will not be
changed until after you exit command mode and disconnect.

5-26

Basic Configuration

5.9. Network Configuration

The Network Parameters Menus are used to select parameters and options for the Network Port
and also allow you to implement IP Security features, which can restrict access based on the
user’s IP Address.

Although the Web Browser Interface and Text Interface allow denition of essentially the same
parameters, parameters are arranged differently in the two interfaces. In the Text Interface, most
network parameters are dened via one menu which is accessed using the /N command. In the
Web Browser Interface, network parameters are divided into separate menus which are accessed
via the Network Conguration yout menu.

Notes:

• Settings for network parameters depend on the conguration of your network.

Please contact your network administrator for appropriate settings.

• The Network Parameters Menu selects parameters for all 16 logical Network

Ports.

• The IP Address, Subnet Address and Gateway Address cannot be changed via the

Web Browser Interface. In order to change these parameters, you must access the
unit via the Text Interface.

• When a new IP Address is selected, or the status of the DHCP feature is changed,

the unit will disconnect and recongure itself with the new values when you exit
the Network Parameters Menu. When conguring the unit, make certain your
DHCP server is set up to assign a known, xed IP address in order to simplify
reconnection to the unit after the new address has been assigned. DHCP
Parameters cannot be changed via the Web Browser Interface.

• The Network Parameters menu is only available when you have logged into

command mode using an account and port that permit Administrator level
commands (Supervisor Mode enabled.)

The Network Parameters menu allows you to dene the parameters discussed in the following
sections. Note that although the descriptions of network parameters are arranged according to the
Web Browser Interface, in the Text Interface, most parameters are included in a single menu.

5-27

Basic Configuration

5.9.1. Network Port Parameters

In the Text Interface, these parameters are found in the main Network Conguration menu In
the Web Browser Interface, these parameters are found by placing the cursor over the "Network
Conguration" link on the left hand side of the screen, and then clicking on the "Network Port
Parameters" link in the resulting y-out menu.

• AdministratorMode: Permits/denies port access to accounts that allow Administrator or
SuperUser level commands. When enabled (Permit), the port will be allowed to invoke
Administrator and SuperUser level commands, providing they are issued by an account
that permits them. If disabled (Deny), then accounts that permit Administrator and
SuperUser level commands will not be allowed to access command mode via this port.
(Default = Permit)

• LogoffCharacter: Denes the Logoff Character for this port. This determines which
command(s) must be issued at this port in order to disconnect from a second port.
(Default = ^X ([Ctrl] plus [X]).)

Note: The Sequence Disconnect parameter can be used to pick a one character or a
three character logoff sequence.

• SequenceDisconnect: Enables/Disables and congures the Resident Disconnect
command. Offers the option to either disable the Sequence Disconnect, or select a one
character, or three character command format. (Default = One Character).

Notes:

• The One Character Disconnect is intended for situations where the destination

port should not receive the disconnect command. When the Three Character
format is selected, the disconnect sequence will pass through to the destination
port prior to breaking the connection.

• When Three Character format is selected, the Resident Disconnect uses the

format "[Enter]LLL[Enter]", where L is the selected Logoff Character.

• InactivityTimeout: Enables and selects the Inactivity Timeout period for the Network
Port. If enabled, and the port does not receive or transmit data for the specied time
period, the port will disconnect. (Default = 5 Minutes).

• CommandEcho: Enables or Disables the command echo for the Network Port.
(Default = On).

• AcceptBreak: Determines whether the port will accept breaks received from the attached
device, and pass them along to a connected port. When enabled, breaks received at this
port will be passed to any port this port is connected to, and sent to the device connected to
the other port. When disabled, breaks will be refused at this port. (Default = On.)

• MultipleLogins: (Text Interface Only) If the RPS is installed in an environment that
does not include communication via an open network (local communication only), then the
Multiple Logins parameter can be used to determine whether or not multiple users will be
able to communicate with the unit at the same time. If this parameter is set to "Off" then
only one user will be allowed to communicate with the unit at a time. (Default = On.)

5-28

Basic Configuration

5.9.2. Network Parameters

In the Text Interface, these parameters are accessed via the Network Conguration menu. In
the Web Browser Interface, these parameters are found by placing the cursor over the "Network
Conguration" link on the left hand side of the screen, and then clicking on the "Network
Parameters" link in the resulting y-out menu.

Note: The IP Address, Subnet Mask, Gateway Address and DHCP status cannot be
changed via the Web Browser Interface. In order to change these parameters, you
must access the RPS via the Text Interface.

• IPAddress: (Default = 192.168.168.168.)

• SubnetMask: (Default = 255.255.255.0.)

• GatewayAddress: (Default = undened.)

• DHCP: Enables/Disables Dynamic Host Conguration Protocol. When this option is
"On", the RPS will perform a DHCP request. Note that in the Text Interface, the MAC
address for the RPS is listed on the Network Status Screen. (Default = Off.)

Note: Before conguring this feature, make certain your DHCP server is set up
to assign a known, xed IP address. You will need this new IP address in order to
reestablish a network connection with the RPS unit.

• TelnetAccess: Enables/disables Telnet access. When Telnet Access is "Off," users will
not be allowed to establish a Telnet connection to the unit. Note that in the Text Interface,
this item also provides access to the "Telnet Port" and "Maximum per Source" parameters.
(Default = On.)

• TelnetPort: Selects the TCP/IP port number that will be used for Telnet connections. In
the Text Interface, this item is dened via a submenu, displayed when the Telnet Access
parameter is selected. (Default = 23.)

• Max.PerSource: The maximum number of Telnet sessions that will be allowed per user
MAC address. (Default = 4.)

Notes:

• In the Text Interface, the "Per Source" parameter is dened via a submenu of

item 21 (Telnet Access) in the Network Parameters menu.

• After changing the "Max Per Source" parameter, you must log out of all pre-

existing Telnet sessions in order for the new maximum value to be applied.

5-29

Basic Configuration

• HTTPAccess(WebAccess): Enables/disables the Web Browser Interface. When
disabled, users will not be allowed to contact the unit via the Web Browser Interface.
(Default = Off.)

• HTTPPort: Selects the TCP/IP port number that will be used for Web Access.
(Default = 80.)

Note: In the Text Interface, HTTP parameters reside in a separate submenu. To
enable and congure HTTP Access via the Text Interface, access the Network
Conguration Menu as described in Section 5.9, then type 23, press [Enter] and use
the resulting submenu to select parameters.

• SYSLOGAddress: The IP Address or domain name (up to 64 characters) for the Syslog
Daemon that will receive log records generated by the RPS. For more information, please
refer to Section 8. (Default = undened.)

Note: The Syslog Address submenu in the Text Interface includes a Ping Test
function that can be used to ping the user-selected Syslog IP Address to verify that a
valid IP address has been entered. In order for the Ping Test feature to function, your
network and/or rewall must be congured to allow ping commands.

• PingAccess: Enables/Disables response to the ping command. When Disabled, the RPS
will not respond to Ping commands. (Default = On.)

• RawSocketAccess: Enables/disables Raw Socket Protocol access to the Network Port
via Direct Connect and selects the port number for Raw Socket Access. This item can be
used to enable or disable Raw Socket Protocol access and select either port 23 or port 3001
for use for Raw Socket connections. (Default = Off.)

Notes:

• The Raw Socket Access option is often useful for users who encounter network

problems when attempting to communicate with the RPS using a script that was
previously written for legacy products.

• If the "On (23)" option is selected, you must either disable Telnet Port 23 or use

the Telnet Access option to select a port other than Port 23.

• When the Raw Socket Access option is enabled, you must connect to the RPS

using the port number selected for Raw Socket Access. For example, if the RPS
IP address is "1.2.3.4", and port 3001 has been selected for Raw Socket Acess, in
order to establish a Raw Socket connection to the RPS's Network Port, then on a
UNIX system, the connection command would be:
$ telnet 1.2.3.4 3001 [Enter].

5-30

Basic Configuration

5.9.3. IP Security

The IP Security feature allows the RPS to restrict unauthorized IP addresses from establishing
inbound connections to the unit via Telnet or Web Browser. This allows you to grant access to
only a specic group of Telnet or Web IP addresses, or block a particular IP address completely.
In the default state, the RPS accepts incoming IP connections from all hosts.

In the Text Interface, IP Security parameters are dened via the Network Conguration menu. In
the Web Browser Interface, these parameters are found by placing the cursor over the "Network
Conguration" link, and then clicking on the "IP Security" link in the resulting y-out menu.
In the default state, IP Security is disabled. The IP Security Function employs a TCP Wrapper
program which allows the use of standard, Linux operators, wild cards and net/mask pairs to
create a host based access control list.

The IP Security conguration menus include "hosts.allow" and "hosts.deny" client lists. When
setting up IP Security, you must enter IP addresses for hosts that you wish to allow in the Allow
list, and addresses for hosts that you wish to deny in the Deny list. Since Linux operators, wild
cards and net/mask pairs are allowed, these lists can indicate specic addresses, or a range of
addresses to be allowed or denied.

When the IP Security feature is properly enabled, and a client attempts to connect, the RPS will
perform the following checks:

1. If the client’s IP address is found in the "hosts.allow" list, the client will be granted
immediate access. Once an IP address is found in the Allow list, the RPS will not check
the Deny list, and will assume you wish to allow that address to connect.

2. If the client’s IP address is not found in the Allow list, the RPS will then proceed to check
the Deny list.

3. If the client’s IP Address is found in the Deny list, the client will not be allowed to connect.

4. If the client’s IP Address is not found in the Deny list, the client will be allowed to connect,
even if the address was not found in the Allow list.

Notes:

• If the RPS nds an IP Address in the Allow list, it will not check the Deny list, and

will allow the client to connect.

• If both the Allow and Deny lists are left blank, then the IP Security feature will

be disabled, and all IP Addresses will be allowed to connect (providing that the
proper password is supplied.)

• When the Allow and Deny lists are dened, the user is only allowed to specify the

Client List; the Daemon List and Shell Command cannot be dened.

5-31

Basic Configuration

5.9.3.1. AddingIPAddressestotheAllowandDenyLists

To add an IP Address to the Allow or Deny list, and begin conguring the IP Security feature,
proceed as follows.

Notes:

• Both the Allow and Deny list can include Linux operators, wild cards, and net/

mask pairs.

• In some cases, it is not necessary to enter all four "digits" of the IP Address. For

example, if you wish to allow access to all IP addresses that begin with "192,"
then you would only need to enter "192."

• The IP Security Conguration menu is only available when you have accessed

command mode using an account that permits Administrator level commands.

1. Access the IP Security Conguration menu. In the Text Interface, the IP Security menu
is accessed via the Network Conguration menu. In the Web Browser Interface, the IP
Security Conguration menu is accessed via the Network Conguration yout menu.

2. AllowList: Enter the IP Address(es) for the clients that you wish to allow. Note that if
an IP Address is found in the Allow list, the client will be allowed to connect, and the RPS
will not check the Deny list.

3. DenyList: Enter the IP Address(es) for the clients that you wish to deny. Note that if the
client’s IP Address is not found in the Deny List, that client will be allowed to connect.

5.9.3.2. LinuxOperatorsandWildCards

In addition to entering a specic IP address or partial IP address in the Allow or Deny list, you
may also use standard Linux operators or wild cards. In most cases, the only operator used is
"EXCEPT" and the only wild card used is "ALL," but more experienced Linux users may note
that other operators and wild cards may also be used.

EXCEPT:This operator creates an exception in either the "allow" list or "deny" list. For
example, if the Allow list includes a line which reads "192. EXCEPT 192.255.255.6," then all IP
address that begin with "192." will be allowed; except 192.255.255.6 (providing that this address
appears in the Deny list.)

ALL:The ALL wild card indicates that all IP Addresses should be allowed or denied. When
ALL is included in the Allow list, all IP addresses will be allowed to connect; conversely, if
ALL is included in the Deny list, all IP Addresses will be denied (except for IP addresses listed
in the Allow list.) For example, if the Deny list includes a line which reads "ALL EXCEPT

168.255.192.192," then all IP addresses except 168.255.192.192 will be denied (except for IP
addresses that are listed in the Allow list.)

Net/MaskPairs:An expression of the form "n.n.n.n/m.m.m.m" is interpreted as a "net/mask"
pair. A host address is matched if "net" is equal to the bitwise AND of the address and the
"mask." For example, the net/mask pattern "131.155.72.0/255.255.254.0" matches every address
in the range "131.155.72.0" through "131.155.73.255."

5-32

Basic Configuration

5.9.3.3. IPSecurityExamples

1. MostlyClosed: Access is denied by default and the only clients allowed, are those
explicitly listed in the Allow list. To deny access to all clients except 192.255.255.192 and

168.112.112.05, IP Security would be dened as follows:

• Allow List:

1. 192.255.255.192

2. 168.112.112.05

• Deny List:

1. ALL

2. MostlyOpen: Access is granted by default, and the only clients denied access, are those
explicitly listed in the Deny list. To allow access to all clients except 192.255.255.192 and

168.112.112.05, the IP Security would be dened as follows:

• Allow List:

1. ALL EXCEPT 192.255.255.192, 168.112.112.05

• Deny List:

1. 192.255.255.192, 168.112.112.05

Notes:

• When dening a line in the Allow or Deny list that includes several IP addresses,

each individual address is separated by either a space, a comma, or a comma and
a space as shown in Example 2 above.

• Take care when using the "ALL" wild card. When ALL is included in the Allow

list, it should always include an EXCEPT operator in order to allow the unit to
proceed to the Deny list and determine any addresses you wish to deny.

5-33

Basic Configuration

5.9.4. Static Route

The Static Route menu allows you to type in Linux routing commands that will be automatically
executed each time that the unit powers up or reboots. In the Text Interface, the Static Route
menu is accessed via the Network Conguration menu. In the Web Browser Interface, the Static
Route menu via the Network Conguration yout menu.

5.9.5. Domain Name Server

The DNS menu is used to select IP addresses for Domain Name Servers. When web and
network addresses are entered, the Domain Name Server interprets domain names (e.g., www.
yourcompanyname123.com), and translates them into IP addresses. Note that if you don't dene
at least one DNS, then IP addresses must be used, rather than domain names.

When accessed via the Text Interface, the Domain Name Server menu includes a Ping Test
feature, that allows you to ping the IP addresses for each user-dened domain name server in
order to check that a valid IP address has been entered.

Note: In order for the Ping Test feature to function, your network and/or rewall
must be congured to allow ping commands.

5-34

Basic Configuration

5.10. Save User Selected Parameters

It is strongly recommended to save all user-dened parameters to an ASCII le as described in
Section 9. This will allow quick recovery in the event of accidental deletion or reconguration of
port parameters.

When changing conguration parameters via the Text Interface, make certain that the RPS has
saved the newly dened parameters before exiting from command mode. To save parameters,
press the [Esc] key several times until you have exited from all conguration menus and the RPS
displays the "Saving Conguration" menu and the cursor returns to the command prompt. If
newly dened conguration parameters are not saved prior to exiting from command mode, then
the RPS will revert to the previously saved conguration after you exit from command mode.

5.10.1. Restore Configuration

If you make a mistake while conguring the RPS unit, and wish to return to the previously saved
parameters, the Text Interface's "Reboot System" command (/I) offers the option to reinitialize
the unit using previously backed up parameters. This allows you to reset the unit to previously
saved parameters, even after you have changed parameters and saved them.

Notes:

• The RPS will automatically backup saved parameters once a day, shortly after

Midnight. This conguration backup le will contain only the most recently saved
RPS parameters, and will be overwritten by the next night's daily backup.

• When the /I command is invoked, a submenu will be displayed which offers

several Reboot options. Option 5 is used to restore the conguration backup
le. The date shown next to option 5 indicates the date that you last changed and
saved unit parameters.

• If the daily automatic conguration backup has been triggered since the

conguration error was made, and the previously saved conguration has been
overwritten by newer, incorrect parameters, then this function will not be able to
restore the previously saved (correct) parameters.

To restore the previously saved conguration, proceed as follows:

1. Access command move via the Text Interface, using a username/password that permits
access to Administrator level commands (see Section 5.1.1.)

2. At the RPS command prompt, type /I and press [Enter]. The RPS will display a
submenu that offers several different reboot options.

3. At the submenu, choose Item 5 (Reboot & Restore Last Known Working Conguration.
Key in the number for the desired option, and then press [Enter].

4. The RPS will reboot and previously saved parameters will be restored.

5-35

6. The Status Screens

The Status Screens are used to display status information about the switched outlets, Network
Port, plugs and Plug Groups. The Status Screens are available via both the Text Interface and
Web Browser Interface.

6.1. Product Status

The Product Status Screen lists the model number, power rating, input line count, input line
frequency and software version for your RPS unit. To display the Product Status Screen via the
Text Interface, type /J * and then press [Enter]. To display the Product Status Screen via the
Web Browser Interface, click on the "Product Status" link. The Product Status Screen lists the
following items:

• Product: The make/model number of the RPS unit.

• SerialNumber: Displays the serial number for the RPS unit, providing that the serial
number has been previously dened via the Systems Parameters menu as described in
Section 5.3.

• Rating: The current rating, in Amps.

• LineCount: The number of power line inputs included on the RPS unit.

• BranchCount: The number of power branches present on the RPS unit.

• LineFrequency: The line frequency in Hertz.

• SWVersion: The software version that is currently installed on the RPS unit.

• RAM: The amount of RAM memory installed on the RPS unit.

• Flash: The Amount of Flash memory installed on the RPS unit.

• Breakers: This eld will read "Yes" if the RPS unit includes circuit breakers.

Note: The Information provided by the Product Status Screen is intended mainly to
assist support peronnel with the diagnosis of user equipment problems.

6-1

The Status Screens

6.2. The Network Status Screen

The Network Status screen shows activity at the RPS's 16 virtual network ports. To view the
Network Status Screen, you must access command mode using a password that permits access to
Administrator Level commands.

To display the Network Status Screen via the Text Interface, type /SN and press [Enter]. To
display the Network Status Screen via the Web Browser Interface, click on the Network Status
link. The Network Status Screen lists the following items:

• Port: The virtual network port for each connection.

• TCPPort: The number of the TCP Port for each connection.

• Status: This column will read "Free" if no users are currently connected to the
corresponding port, or "Active" if a user has currently accessed command mode via this
port.

• UserName: The user name for the account that has currently accessed command mode
via this port. Note that when the Network Status Screen is viewed via the Text Interface,
usernames that are longer than 22 characters will be truncated and the remaining characters
will be displayed as two dots (..).

Note: The username parameter is only available when the RPS mode has been
disabled as described in Section 5.3.5.1.

6-2

The Status Screens

6.3. The Plug Status Screen

The Plug Status screen shows the On/Off status of the RPS's switched outlets, and lists user­dened Plug Names, Boot/Sequence Delay values, and Default On/Off settings.

Note:

• When the Plug Status Screen is viewed by an "Administrator" or "SuperUser"

level account, all RPS plugs are listed. When the Plug Status Screen is viewed by
a "User" or "ViewOnly" level account, the screen will list only the outlets that are
allowed by that account.

• Section 5.7 describes the procedure for conguring the plug parameters listed in

the Plug Status Screen.

To display the Plug Status Screen via the Text Interface, type /S and press [Enter]. To display
the Plug Status Screen via the Web Browser Interface, click on the "Plug Status" link. Note that
when the /S command is invoked via the Text Interface, the command line can also include
arguements that display On/Off status for an individual outlet, two or more specic outlets, or a
range of outlets:

/S Displays conguration details and ON/Off status for all switched outlets.

/S s Displays On/Off status for an individual outlet, where s is the name or number of

the desired outlet.

/S s+s Displays On/Off status for two or more specic outlets, where s is the number

or name of each desired outlet. A plus sign (+) is entered between each outlet
number or name.

/S s:s Displays On/Off status for a range of outlets, where s is the number or name of

the outlet at the beginning and end of the range of desired outlets. A colon (:) is
entered between the two outlet numbers or names that mark the beginning of the
range and the end of the range.

The Plug Status Screen lists the following parameters for each switched outlet:

• Plug: The alphanumeric number of each switched outlet.

Note: If an asterisk appears next to the plug number in this column, this indicates
that the plug is "busy", and still in the process of completing a previous command.
This could be a command that was invoked by the current user or another user.

• Name: The user-dened name for each switched outlet.

• Status: The current On/Off status of each switched outlet. If the Status column includes
an asterisk, this means that this outlet is busy completing another command, that was
previously invoked, either by you or another user.

• BootSeq.Delay: The user-dened Boot/Sequence Delay for each switched outlet.

• Default: The Default On/Off value for each switched outlet.

• Priority: (Web Browser Interface Only) The user-dened priority setting for each
switched outlet.

6-3

The Status Screens

6.4. The Plug Group Status Screen

The Plug Group Status screen shows the conguration details and On/Off status for the RPS's
user-dened Plug Groups.

Notes:

• When the Plug Group Status Screen is viewed by an "Administrator" or

"SuperUser" level account, all RPS plugs and plug groups are listed. When the
Plug Status Screen is viewed by a "User" or "ViewOnly" level account, the screen
will list only the plug groups that are allowed by that account.

• In order to display the Plug Group Status screen, you must rst dene at least one

Plug Group as described in Section 5.6.

To display the Plug Group Status Screen via the Text Interface, type /SG and then press [Enter].
To display the Plug Group Status Screen via the Web Browser Interface, click on the "Plug Group
Status" link and then select the desired Plug Group from the resulting subment and click on the
"Get Plug Group Status" button.

The Plug Group Status Screen can list the following parameters for each user-dened Plug Group:

• GroupName: The user-dened name for each Plug Group.

• Plug: The alphanumeric number of each switched outlet in the Plug Group.

• PlugName: (Web Interface Only) The User Dened name for each switched outlet in the
Plug Group.

• Default: The Default On/Off value for each switched outlet in the Plug Group.

• BootSeq.Delay(Delay): The user-dened Boot/Sequence Delay for each switched outlet
in the Plug Group.

• Status: The On/Off status of each switched outlet in the Plug Group. If the Status column
includes an asterisk, this means that this outlet is busy completing another command, that
was previously invoked, either by you or another user.

• SNMPIndex: This item is not currently available and is reserved for future use.

6-4

7. Operation

The RPS offers two separate command interfaces; the Web Browser Interface and the Text
Interface. Both interfaces offer essentially the same command options and features, and in most
cases, parameters dened via the Web Browser Interface will also apply when communicating via
the Text Interface (and vice versa.)

7.1. Operation via the Web Browser Interface

When using the Web Browser Interface, switching commands are invoked via the Plug Control
Screen and Plug Group Control Screen.

7.1.1. The Plug Control Screen - Web Browser Interface

The Plug Control Screen lists the On/Off status of the RPS’s Switched Outlets and can be used to
control switching and rebooting of the outlets. To invoke power switching commands, rst access
the RPS command mode (for more information, see Section 5.1.) After accessing command
mode, click on the "Plug Control" link on the left hand side of the screen to display the Plug
Control Screen.

When the Plug Control Screen appears, click the down arrow in the "Action" column for the
desired outlet(s), then select the desired switching option from the dropdown menu and click on
the "Conrm Plug Actions" button.

When the "Conrm Plug Actions" button is pressed, the RPS will display a screen which lists the
selected action(s) and asks for conrmation before proceeding. To proceed, click on the "Execute
Plug Actions" button. The RPS will display a screen which indicates that a switching operation is
in progress, then display the Plug Status screen when the command is complete. At that time, the
Status Screen will list the updated On/Off status of each plug.

Notes:

• When switching and reboot operations are initiated, Boot/Sequence Delay times

will be applied as described in Section 5.7.

• If a switching or reboot command is directed to a plug that is already in the

process of being switched or rebooted by a previous command, then the new
command will be placed in a queue until the plug is ready to receive additional
commands.

• If the Status column in the Plug Control Screen includes an asterisk, this means

that the corresponding outlet is busy completing a previously invoked command.

• When the Plug Control Screen is displayed by an account that permits

Administrator or SuperUser level commands, all switched outlets will be
displayed.

• When the Plug Control Screen is displayed by a User level account, the screen

will only include the switched outlets that are allowed by the account.

7-1

Operation

7.1.2. The Plug Group Control Screen - Web Browser Interface

The Plug Group Control Screen is used to send switching and reboot commands to the user­dened Plug Groups. As described in Section 5.6, Plug Groups allow you to specify a group of
outlets that are dedicated to a similar purpose or client, and then direct switching commands to
the group, rather than switching one plug at a time.

To apply power switching commands to Plug Groups, rst access the RPS Command Mode (see
Section 5.1.) Click on the "Plug Group Control" link on the left hand side of the screen to display
the Plug Group Control Screen. When the Plug Group Control Screen appears, click the down
arrow in the "Action" column for the desired Plug Group(s), then select the desired switching
option from the dropdown menu and click on the "Conrm Plug Actions" button

When the "Conrm Plug Group Actions" button is pressed, the RPS will display a screen which
lists the selected action(s) and asks for conrmation before proceeding. To proceed, click on
the "Execute Plug Group Actions" button. The RPS will display a screen which indicates that
a switching operation is in progress, then display the Plug Status screen when the command is
complete. At that time, the Status Screen will list the updated On/Off status of each plug.

Notes:

• When switching and reboot operations are initiated, Boot/Sequence Delay times

will be applied as described in Section 5.7.

• If a switching or reboot command is directed to a plug that is already in the

process of being switched or rebooted by a previous command, then the new
command will be placed in a queue until the plug is ready to receive additional
commands.

• When the Plug Group Control Screen is displayed by an account that permits

Administrator or SuperUser level commands, all user-dened Plug Groups will
be displayed.

• When the Plug Control Screen is displayed by a User level account, the screen

will only include the Plug Groups that are specically allowed for
that account.

7-2

Operation

7.2. Operation via the Text Interface

When using the Text Interface, all switching functions are performed by invoking simple, ASCII
commands. The Text Interface includes a Help Menu, which summarizes all available RPS
commands. To display the Text Interface Help Menu, type /H and press [Enter].

Note: When the Help Menu is displayed by a SuperUser, User or ViewOnly
level account, the screen will not include commands that are only available to
Administrator level accounts.

7.2.1. Switching and Reboot Commands - Text Interface

These commands can be used to switch or reboot the RPS’s switched plugs, and can also be used
to set plugs to the user-dened Power-Up Default values. Plugs may be specied by name or
number.

Notes:

• If a switching or reboot command is directed to a plug that is already being

switched or rebooted by a previous command, then the new command will be
placed in a queue until the plug is ready to receive additional commands.

• If an asterisk appears in the "Status" column for any given plug, this indicates

that the plug is currently busy, processing a previously issued command.

• Commands are not case sensitive. All commands are invoked by pressing

[Enter].

• When the Plug Control Screen is displayed by an account that permits

Administrator level command access, all switched outlets will be displayed.

• When you have accessed command mode using an account that permits

Administrator or SuperUser level commands, then switching and reboot
commands can be applied to all plugs.

• When you have accessed command mode via a User level account, switching and

reboot commands can only be applied to the plugs that are specically allowed
for that account.

• If command conrmation is enabled, the RPS will display the Status Screen after

commands are successfully completed.

• When switching and reboot operations are initiated, Boot/Sequence Delay times

will be applied as described in Section 5.7.

• When used in On/Off/Reboot command lines, plug names and plug group names

are not case sensitive.

7-3

Operation

When switching and reboot commands are executed, the RPS will display a "Sure?" prompt, wait
for user response, and then complete the command. The unit will pause for a moment while the
command is executed, and then return to the Plug Status Screen. To Switch Plugs, or initiate a
Reboot Cycle, proceed as follows:

1. SwitchPlug(s)On: Type /ON n and press [Enter]. Where "n" is the alphanumeric
number or name of the desired plug or Plug Group. For example:

/ON A1 [Enter] or /ON ROUTER [Enter]

2. SwitchPlug(s)Off: Type /OFF n and press [Enter]. Where "n" is the alphanumeric
number or name of the desired plug or Plug Group. Note that the "/OFF" command can
also be entered as "/OF". For example:

/OFF B2 [Enter] or /OF ROUTER [Enter]

3. RebootPlug(s): Type /BOOT n and press [Enter]. Where "n" is the alphanumeric
number or name of the desired plug or Plug Group. Note that the "/BOOT" command can
also be entered as "/BO". For example:

/BOOT B3 [Enter] or /BO ATMSWTCH [Enter]

4. SetAllPlugstoPowerUpDefaults: Type /DPL and press [Enter]. All plugs permitted
by your account will be set to their default On/Off status, which is dened via the Plug
Parameters Menu as described in Section 5.7.

Notes:

• When you have accessed command mode using an Administrator or SuperUser

level account, the Default command will be applied to all plugs.

• When you have accessed command mode using an account that permits only User

level command access, the Default command will only be applied to the plugs
specically allowed by that account.

• The /DPL command is not available in ViewOnly mode.

5. SuppressCommandConrmationPrompt: To execute a power switching command
without displaying the "Sure?" prompt, include the ",Y" option at the end of the command
line. For example:

/ON ROUTER,Y or /BOOT B2,Y

7-4

Operation

7.2.2. Applying Commands to Several Plugs - Text Interface

As described below, switching and reboot commands can be applied to only one Switched AC
Outlet, or to an assortment of outlets.

Note: When switching and reboot operations are initiated, Boot/Sequence Delay
times will be applied as described in Section 5.7.

1. SwitchSeveralPlugs: To apply a command to several plugs, enter the numbers of the
desired plugs, separated by commas or plus signs. For example to switch plugs A1, A3,
and A4 Off, enter either of the following commands:

/OFF A1+A3+A4 [Enter]

or

/OFF A1,A3,A4 [Enter]

Note: In order for the "+" or "," operators to function, there cannot be any blank
spaces between the plug name or number and the plus sign or comma.

2. SwitchaSeriesofPlugs: To apply a command to a series of plugs, enter the numbers for
the plugs that mark the beginning and end of the series, separated by a colon. For example
to switch On plugs A1 through A4 enter the following:

/ON A1:A4 [Enter]

4. AllPlugs: To apply a command to all plugs, enter an asterisk in place of the name or
number. For example, to Boot all plugs, enter the following:

/BO * [Enter]

Note: When this command is invoked by a User level account, it will only be applied
to the plugs that are specically allowed for that account.

7-5

Operation

7.3. The Automated Mode

The Automated Mode allows the RPS to execute switching and reboot commands, without
displaying menus or generating response messages. Automated Mode is designed to allow the
RPS to be controlled by a device which can generate commands to control power switching
functions without human intervention.

When Automated Mode is enabled, the /ON, /OFF, /BOOT, /DPL and /X commands are executed
without a "Sure?" conrmation prompt and without command response messages; the only reply
to these commands is the command prompt, which is displayed when the command is complete.

Note that although Automated Mode can be enabled using either the Web Browser Interface
or Text Interface, Automated Mode is designed primarily for users who wish to send ASCII
commands to the RPS without operator intervention, and therefore does not specically apply to
the Web Browser Interface. When Automated Mode is enabled, the Web Browser Interface can
still be used to invoke On / Off / Boot commands.

Notes:

• When Automated Mode is enabled, all RPS password security functions are

disabled, and users are able to access System Level command functions
(including the conguration menus) and control plugs without entering a
password.

• If you need to enable the Automated Mode, but want to restrict network access

to RPS conguration menus, it is recommended to enable and congure the IP
Security Function as described in Section 5.9.3.

To enable/disable Automated Mode, access the System Parameters menu (see Section 5.3,) then
set the "Automated Mode" option to "On". When Automated Mode is enabled, RPS functions
will change as follows:

1. AllPasswordSecuritySuppressed: When a user attempts to access command mode,
the password prompt will not be displayed at either the SetUp Port or the Network Port.
Unless specically restricted by the IP Security Function, all users will be allowed to
access both switching and conguration functions, and all commands will be immediately
accepted without the requirement to enter a password.

2. StatusScreenSuppressed: The status screens will not be automatically displayed after
commands are successfully executed. Note however, that the /S command can still be
invoked to display the status screen as needed.

3. "Sure?"PromptSuppressed: All commands are executed without prompting for user
conrmation.

4. ErrorMessagesSuppressed: If the [Enter] key is pressed without entering a command,
the RPS will not respond with the "Invalid Command" message. Note however, that an
error message will still be generated if commands are invoked using invalid formats or
arguments.

All other status display and conguration commands will still function as normal.

7-6

Operation

7.4. Manual Operation

In addition to the command driven functions available via the Web Browser Interface and Text
Interface, some RPS functions can also be controlled manually. For a summary of front panel
control functions, please refer to Section 2.3.

7.5. Logging Out of Command Mode

When you have nished communicating with the RPS, it is important to always disconnect using
either the "LogOut" link (Web Browser Interface) or the /X command (Text Interface), rather than
by simply closing your browser window or communications program. When communicating via
a PDA, use the PDA's "Close" function to disconnect and logout.

When you disconnect using the LogOut link or /X command, this ensures that the RPS has
completely exited from command mode, and is not waiting for the inactivity timeout period to
elapse before allowing additional connections.

7-7

8. Syslog Messages

The Syslog feature can create log records of each Audit Log Event. As these event records are
created, they are sent to a Syslog Daemon, located at an IP address dened via the Network
Parameters menu.

8.1. Configuration

If you wish to employ this feature, you must set the real-time clock and calendar via the System
Parameters Menu, and dene the IP address for the Syslog Daemon via the Network Port
Conguration menu.

To congure the Syslog function, please proceed as follows:

1. Accesscommandmode: Note that the following conguration menus are only available
to accounts that permit Administrator level commands.

2. SystemParametersMenu: Access the System Parameters Menu as described in
Section 5.3, then set the following parameters:

a) SetClockandCalendar: Set the Real Time Clock and Calendar and/or congure

and enable the NTP server feature.

3. NetworkParametersMenu: Access the Network Parameters Menu as described in
Section 5.9, then set the following parameters:

a) SyslogIPAddress: Determine the IP address for the device that will run the Syslog

Daemon, then use the Network Port Conguration menu to dene the IP Address for
the Syslog Daemon.

Note: The Syslog Address submenu in the Text Interface includes a Ping Test
function that can be used to ping the user-selected Syslog IP Address to verify that a
valid IP address has been entered. In order for the Ping Test feature to function, your
network and/or rewall must be congured to allow ping commands.

4. SyslogDaemon: In order to capture messages sent by the RPS, a computer must be
running a Syslog Daemon (set to UDP Port 514) at the IP address specied in Step 3
above.

Once the Syslog Address is dened, Syslog messages will be generated whenever a user logs in
or out of command mode, when conguration parameters are changed and whenever a switching
action is initiated.

8-1

9. Saving and Restoring Configuration Parameters

Once the RPS is properly congured, parameters can be downloaded and saved as an ASCII text
le. Later, if the conguration is accidentally altered, the saved parameters can be uploaded to
automatically recongure the unit without the need to manually assign each parameter.

Saved parameters can also be uploaded to other identical RPS units, allowing rapid set-up when
several identical units will be congured with the same parameters.

The "Save Parameters" procedure can be performed from any terminal emulation program

©

(e.g. HyperTerminal™, TeraTerm

Note: The Save and Restore features described in this section are only available via
the Text Interface.

9.1. Sending Parameters to a File

1. Start your terminal emulation program and access the Text Interface command mode using
an account that permits Administrator level commands.

2. When the command prompt appears, type /U and press [Enter]. The RPS will prompt you
to congure your terminal emulation program to receive an ASCII download.

a) Set your terminal emulation program to receive an ASCII download, and the specify a

name for a le that will receive the saved parameters (e.g. RPS.PAR).

, etc.), that allows downloading of ASCII les.

b) Disable the Line Wrap function for your terminal emulation program. This will

prevent command lines from being broken in two during transmission.

3. When the terminal emulation program is ready to receive the le, return to the RPS’s Save
Parameter File menu, and press [Enter] to proceed. RPS parameters will be saved on your
hard drive in the le specied in Step 2 above.

4. The RPS will send a series of ASCII command lines which specify currently selected
parameters. When the download is complete, press [Enter] to return to the command
prompt.

9-1

Saving and Restoring Configuration Parameters

9.2. Restoring Saved Parameters

This section describes the procedure for using your terminal emulation program to send saved
parameters to the RPS.

1. Start your terminal emulation program and access the RPS’s Text Interface command mode
using an account that permits Administrator level commands.

2. Congure your terminal emulation program to upload an ASCII text le.

3. Upload the ASCII text le with the saved RPS parameters. If necessary, key in the le
name and directory path.

4. Your terminal emulation program will send the ASCII text le to the RPS. When the
terminal program is nished with the upload, make certain to terminate the Upload mode.

Note: If the RPS detects an error in the le, it will respond with the "Invalid
Parameter" message. If an error message is received, carefully check the contents of
the parameters le, correct the problem, and then repeat the Upload procedure.

5. If the parameter upload is successful, the RPS will send a conrmation message, and then
return to the command prompt. Type /S and press [Enter], the Status Screen will be
displayed. Check the Status Screen to make certain the unit has been congured with the
saved parameters.

9-2

Saving and Restoring Configuration Parameters

9.3. Restoring Previously Saved Parameters

If you make a mistake while conguring the RPS unit, and wish to return to the previously saved
parameters, the Text Interface's "Reboot System" command (/I) offers the option to reinitialize
the RPS unit using previously backed up parameters. This allows you to reset the unit to
previously saved parameters, even after you have changed parameters and saved them.

Notes:

• The RPS will automatically backup saved parameters once a day, shortly after

Midnight. This conguration backup le will contain only the most recently saved
RPS parameters, and will be overwritten by the next night's daily backup.

• When the /I command is invoked, a submenu will be displayed which offers

several Reboot options. Options 5 is used to restore the conguration backup le.
The date shown next to options 5 indicates the date that you last changed and
saved unit parameters.

• If the daily automatic conguration backup has been triggered since the

conguration error was made, and the previously saved conguration has been
overwritten by newer, incorrect parameters, then this function will not be able to
restore the previously saved (correct) parameters.

To restore the previously saved conguration, proceed as follows:

1. Access command mode via the Text Interface, using a username/password that permits
access to Administrator level commands (see Section 5.1.1.)

2. At the RPS command prompt, type /I and press [Enter]. The RPS will display a
submenu that offers several different reboot options.

3. At the submenu, you may choose Item 5 (Reboot & Restore Last Known Working
Conguration.) Type 5 and press [Enter].

Note: When invoking the /I command to restore conguration parameters, Item 5 is
recommended.

4. The RPS will reboot and previously saved parameters will be restored.

9-3

10. Upgrading RPS Firmware

When new, improved versions of the RPS rmware become available, the "Upgrade Firmware"
function (Text Interface only) can be used to update the unit. The following Section describes the
procedure for updating the RPS unit using the Upgrade Firmware function.

10.2. The Upgrade Firmware Function

The Upgrade Firmware function is used for updating the RPS rmware. Updates can be uploaded
via FTP protocol.

Notes:

• The FTP servers can only be started via the Text Interface.

• All other ports will remain active during the rmware upgrade procedure.

• If the upgrade includes new parameters or features not included in the previous

rmware version, these new parameters will be set to their default values.

1. Obtain the update le. Firmware modications can either be mailed to the customer, or
downloaded. Place the upgrade CDR in your disk drive or copy the le to your hard drive.

2. Access Text Interface command mode via Serial Port or Telnet client session, using a
username/password and port that permit Administrator level commands.

3. When the command prompt appears, type /UF and then press [Enter]. The RPS will
display a screen which offers the following options:

a) StartFTPServersOnly(DoNOTdefaultparameters): To proceed with the

upgrade, while retaining user-dened parameters, type 1 and press [Enter]. All
existing parameter settings will be restored when the upgrade is complete.

b) StartFTPServers&Default(KeepIPparameters): To proceed with the upgrade

and default all user-dened parameters except for the IP Parameters, type 2 and
press [Enter]. When the upgrade is complete, all parameter settings except the IP
Parameters, will be reset to factory default values.

c) StartFTPServers&Default(DefaultALLparameters): To proceed with the

upgrade, and reset parameters to default settings, type 3 and press [Enter]. When the
upgrade is complete, all parameters will be set to default values.

d) StartFTPServersforSlipStreamUpgrade: This option is not currently supported

and is reserved for future use.

Note that after any of the above options is selected, the RPS will start the receiving servers

and wait for an FTP client to make a connection and upload a valid rmware binary image.

10-1

Upgrading RPS Firmware

4. To proceed with the upgrade, select the desired option. The RPS will display a message
that indicates that the unit is waiting for data. Leave the current Telnet client session
connected at this time.

5. Open your FTP application and (if you have not already done so,) login to the RPS unit,
using a username and password that permit access to Administrator level commands.

6. Transfer the md5 format upgrade le to the RPS.

7. After the le transfer is complete, the RPS will install the upgrade le and then reboot
itself and break all port connections. Note that it will take approximately 10 minutes to
complete the installation process. The unit will remain accessible until it reboots.

a) Some FTP applications may not automatically close when the le transfer is complete.

If this is the case, you may close your FTP client manually after it indicates that the
le has been successfully transferred.

b) When the upgrade process is complete, the RPS will send a message to all currently

connected network sessions, indicating that the RPS is going down for a reboot.

Note: Do not power down the RPS unit while it is in the process of installing the
upgrade le. This can damage the unit's operating system.

8. If you have accessed the RPS via the Network Port, in order to start the FTP servers, the
RPS will break the network connection when the system is reinitialized.

• If you initially selected "Start FTP Servers and Save Parameters", you may then

reestablish a connection with the RPS using your former IP address.

• If you initially selected "Start FTP Servers and Default Parameters", you must then

login using the RPS’s default IP address (Default = 192.168.168.168) or access
command mode via Serial Port 1 or 2 or via Modem.

When rmware upgrades are available, the necessary les will be provided to the user or offered
via download. At that time, an updated Users Guide or addendum will also be available.

10-2

11. Command Reference Guide

11.1. Command Conventions

Most commands described in this section conform to the following conventions:

• TextInterface: Commands discussed in this section, can only be invoked via the Text
Interface. These commands cannot be invoked via the Web Browser Interface.

• SlashCharacter: Most RPS Text Interface commands begin with the Slash Character (/).

• ApplyCommandtoAllPlugs: When an asterisk is entered as the argument of the /ON
(Switch Plugs On), /OFF (Switch Plugs Off) or /BOOT (Reboot Plugs) commands, the
command will be applied to all plugs. For example, to reboot all allowed plugs, type /
BOOT * [Enter].

• CommandQueues: If a switching or reboot command is directed to a plug that is already
being switched or rebooted by a previous command, then the new command will be placed
into a queue until the plug is ready to receive additional commands.

• "Busy"Plugs: If the "Status" column in the Plug Status Screen includes an asterisk, this
means that the plug is currently busy, and is in the process of completing a previously
issued command. If a new command is issued to a busy plug, then the new command
will placed into a queue to be executed later, when the plug is ready to receive additional
commands.

• PlugNameWildCard: It is not always necessary to enter the entire plug name. Plug
names can be abbreviated in command lines by entering the rst character(s) of the name
followed by an asterisk (*). For example, a plug named "SERVER" can be specied as
"S*". Note however, that this command would also be applied to any other plug name that
begins with an "S".

• SuppressCommandConrmationPrompt: When the /ON (Switch Plug On),
/OFF (Switch Plug Off), /BOOT (Reboot Plug) or /DPL (Default All Plugs) commands
are invoked, the ",Y" option can be included to override the Command Conrmation
("Sure?") prompt. For example, to reboot Plug A4 without displaying the Sure prompt,
type /BOOT A4,Y [Enter].

• EnterKey: Most commands are invoked by pressing [Enter].

• CongurationMenus: To exit from a conguration menu, press [Esc].

11-1

Command Reference Guide

11.2. Command Summary

Function Command Syntax Command Access Level

Admin. SuperUser User ViewOnly

Display

Plug Status /S [s] [Enter]

Plug Group Status /SG [Enter]

Network Status /SN [Enter] X X X X

Help Menu /H [Enter]

Log Functions /L [Enter] X X

Site ID / Unit Information

Control

Exit Command Mode /X [Enter] X X X X

Boot Plug n

Turn Plug n On

Turn Plug n Off

Default All Plugs

Connect - Local /C [n] [Enter] X X X

Disconnect Port

Send Parameter File /U [Enter] X

Unlock Invalid Access /UL [Enter] X

Configuration

System Parameters /F [Enter] X

Serial Port Parameters /P [n] [Enter] X

Plug Parameters /PL [Enter] X

Plug Group Parameters /G [Enter] X

Network Conguration /N [Enter] X

Reboot System /I [Enter] X X

Upgrade Firmware /UF [Enter] X

Test Network Conguration /TEST [Enter] X

/J [*] [Enter]

/BOOT <s>[,Y] [Enter]

/ON <s>[,Y] [Enter]

/OFF <s>[,Y] [Enter]

/DPL[,Y] [Enter]

/D [n][Enter]

X X X X

X X X X

X X X X

X X X X

X X X

X X X

X X X

X X X

X X X











 In Administrator Mode and SuperUser Mode, all RPS outlets are displayed. In User Mode and ViewOnly

Mode, the Plug Status Screen will only include the plugs that are allowed by your account.

 In Administrator Mode, all Plug Groups are displayed. In SuperUser Mode, User Mode and ViewOnly

Mode, the Plug Group Status Screen will only include the Plug Groups that are allowed by your account.

 In Administrator Mode, the Help Menus will list all RPS commands. In the SuperUser Mode, User Mode

and ViewOnly Mode, the Help Menus will only list the commands that are allowed by the access level.

 If the optional asterisk (*) argument is included in the command line, this command will also show

model numbers, current ratings and software versions for the RPS unit.

 The ",Y" argument can be included in the command line to suppress the command conrmation prompt.

 Not applicable to RPS units.

 In SuperUser Mode, conguration menus can be displayed, but parameters cannot be changed.

11-2

Command Reference Guide

11.3. Command Set

This Section provides information on all Text Interface commands, sorted by functionality

11.3.1. Display Commands

/S Display Plug Status Screen

Displays the Plug Status Screen, which lists the current On/Off state, plus the plug number,
plug name, Boot/Sequence Delay value and Default On/Off value for each plug. For more
information, please refer to Section 6.3.

Note that the /S command line can also include arguments that display On/Off status for an
individual outlet, two or more specic outlets, or a range of several outlets:

/S Displays conguration details and On/Off status for all switched outlets.

/S s Displays On/Off status for an individual outlet, where s is the name or number of

the desired outlet.

/S s+s Displays status information for two or more specic outlets, where s is the

number or name of each desired outlet. A plus sign (+) is entered between each
outlet number or name.

/S s:s Displays status information for a range of outlets, where s is the number or name

of the outlet at the beginning and end of the range of desired outlets. A colon (:)
is entered between the two outlet numbers or names that mark the beginning of
the range and the end of the range.

Notes:

• In Administrator Mode and SuperUser Mode, all outlets are displayed. In User

Mode and ViewOnly Mode, the Plug Status Screen will only include the outlets
allowed by your account.

• The RPS will return a "0" to indicate that the plug is Off, or a "1" to indicate that

the plug is On.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User, ViewOnly
Format: /S [Enter]

/SG Display Plug Group Status Screen

Displays the Plug Group Status Screen, which lists the available Plug Groups, the numbers of
the plugs included in each Plug Group, the current On/Off state, the user-dened Boot/Sequence
Delay value, and the Default On/Off value for each plug. For more information, please refer to
Section 6.4.

Note: In Administrator Mode all user dened Plug Groups are displayed. In
SuperUser Mode, User Mode and ViewOnly Mode, the Plug Group Status Screen will
only include the Plug Groups allowed by your account.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User, ViewOnly
Format: /SG [Enter]

11-3

Command Reference Guide

/SN Display Network Status

Displays the Network Status Screen, which lists current network connections to the RPS's
Network Port. For more information, please refer to Section 6.2.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User, ViewOnly
Format: /SN [Enter]

/H Help

Displays a Help Screen, which lists all available Text Interface commands along with a brief
description of each command.

Note: In the Administrator Mode, the Help Screen will list the entire RPS Text
Interface command set. In SuperUser Mode, User Mode and ViewOnly Mode, the
Help Screen will only list the commands that are allowed by the account's
access level.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User, ViewOnly
Format: /H [Enter]

/L Log Functions

Provides access to a menu which allows you to display the Audit Log and Temperature Log. For
more information on Log Functions, please refer to Section 5.3.3.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser
Format: /L [Enter]

/J Display Site ID / Unit Information

Displays the user-dened Site I.D. message. If the optional asterisk (*) argument is included in
the command line, the command will also show model numbers, serial number, current ratings,
and software versions for the RPS unit.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User, ViewOnly
Format: /J [*] [Enter]

Where * (asterisk) is an optional command argument, that is used to display the model number,
current rating and software version for the RPS unit.

11-4

Command Reference Guide

11.3.2. Control Commands

/X Exit Command Mode

Exits command mode. When issued at the Network Port, also ends the Telnet session.

Note: If the /X command is invoked from within a conguration menu, recently
dened parameters may not be saved. In order to make certain that parameters are
saved, always press the [Esc] key to exit from all conguration menus and then wait
until "Saving Conguration" message has been displayed and the cursor has returned
to the command prompt before issuing the /X command.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User, ViewOnly
Format: /X [Enter]

/BOOT Initiate Boot Cycle

Initiates a boot cycle at the selected plug(s) or Plug Group(s). When a Boot cycle is performed,
the RPS will rst switch the selected plug(s) Off, then pause for the user-dened Boot/Sequence
Delay Period, then switch the plug(s) back on. The /BOOT command can also be entered as /BO.

Note: When this command is invoked in Administrator Mode or SuperUser Mode,
it can be applied to all RPS plugs and Plug Groups. When this command is invoked
in User Mode, it can only be applied to the plugs and/or Plug Groups that have been
enabled for the account.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User
Format: /BOOT <s>[,Y] [Enter] or /BO <s> [Enter]

Where:

s The number or name of the plug(s) or Plug Group(s) that you intend to boot. To apply

the command to several plugs, enter a plus sign (+) between each plug number. To
apply the command to a range of plugs, enter the numbers for the rst and last plugs
in the range, separated by a colon character (:). To apply the command to all plugs
allowed by your account, enter an asterisk character (*).

,Y (Optional) Suppresses the command conrmation prompt.

Example:
Assume that your account allows access to Plug A2 and Plug A3. To initiate a boot cycle at Plugs
A2 and A3, without displaying the optional command conrmation prompt, invoke either of the
following command lines:

/BOOT A2+A3,Y [Enter] or /BO A2+A3,Y [Enter]

11-5

Command Reference Guide

/ON Switch Plug(s) ON

Switches selected plugs(s) or Plug Group(s) On, as described in Section 7.2. When the /ON
command is used to switch more than one plug, Boot/Sequence Delay Period will be applied as
described in Section 5.7.

Note: When this command is invoked in Administrator Mode or SuperUser Mode,
it can be applied to all RPS plugs and Plug Groups. When this command is invoked
in User Mode, it can only be applied to the plugs and/or Plug Groups that have been
enabled for the account.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User
Format: /ON <s>[,Y] [Enter]

Where:

s The number or name of the plug(s) or Plug Group(s) that you intend to Switch On. To

apply the command to several plugs, enter a plus sign (+) between each plug number.
To apply the command to a range of plugs, enter the numbers for the rst and last
plugs in the range, separated by a colon character (:). To apply the command to all
plugs allowed by your account, enter an asterisk character (*).

,Y (Optional) Suppresses the command conrmation prompt.

Example:

Assume that your account allows access to Plug A2 and Plug A3. To switch Plugs A2 and A3 On,
without displaying the optional command conrmation prompt, invoke following command line:

/ON A2+A3,Y [Enter]

11-6

Command Reference Guide

/OFF Switch Plug(s) OFF

Switches selected plugs(s) or Plug Group(s) Off, as described in Section 7.2. When the /OFF
command is used to switch more than one plug, Boot/Sequence Delay Period will be applied as
described in Section 5.7. The /OFF command can also be entered as /OF.

Note: When this command is invoked in Administrator Mode or SuperUser Mode,
it can be applied to all RPS plugs and Plug Groups. When invoked in User Mode, the
command can only be applied to the plugs and/or Plug Groups that are enabled for
the account.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User
Format: /OFF <s>[,Y] [Enter] or /OF <s>[,Y] [Enter]

Where:

s The number or name of the plug(s) or Plug Group(s) that you intend to Switch Off. To

apply the command to several plugs, enter a plus sign (+) between each plug number.
To apply the command to a range of plugs, enter the numbers for the rst and last
plugs in the range, separated by a colon character (:). To apply the command to all
plugs allowed by your account, enter an asterisk character (*).

,Y (Optional) Suppresses the command conrmation prompt.

Example:

Assume that your account allows access to Plug A2 and Plug A3. To switch Plugs A2 and A3 on
your local RPS unit Off, without displaying the optional command conrmation prompt, invoke
either of the following command lines:

/OFF A2+A3,Y [Enter]or /OF A2+A3,Y [Enter]

/DPL Set All Plugs to Default States

Sets all switched outlets to their user-dened default state. For information on setting outlet
defaults, please refer to Section 5.7.

Note: When this command is invoked in Administrator Mode or SuperUser Mode,
it will be applied to all RPS outlets. When invoked in User Mode, the command will
only be applied to the plugs that are allowed by the account.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User
Format: /DPL[,Y] [Enter]

Where ,Y is an optional command argument, which can be included to suppress the command
conrmation prompt.

11-7

Command Reference Guide

/C Connect to Serial Port

When the RJ45 SetUp Port has been congured as a Normal Mode Port as described in
Section 5.8, the /C command can be used to create a connection between the Network port and
the SetUp Port.

Notes:

• User level accounts can only connect to the SetUp Port when serial port access is

specically permitted by the account.

• To terminate a port connection, either type ^X ([Ctrl] plus [X]) or invoke the

currently dened disconnect sequence.

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser, User
Format: /C 1 [Enter]

/D Third Party Disconnect

The /D command can be invoked via a virtual network port in order to disconnect another vitural
network port from the serial SetUp port.

Note: The /D command cannot disconnect your resident port

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser
Format:/D[/Y] <x>[Enter]

Where:

/Y (Optional) suppresses the "Sure?" prompt.

x Is the number of the virtual port or SetUp port (Port 1) to be disconnected.

Example: If you are communicating with the RPS via virtual network port N1 and you wish
to disconnect virtual network port N2 from the serial SetUp Port (Port 1) without displaying the
"Sure?" prompt, an Administrator or SuperUser level account could enter either of the following
commands:

/D/Y N2[Enter] or /D/Y 1[Enter]

/U Send Parameters to File

Sends all RPS conguration parameters to an ASCII text le as described in Section 9. This
allows you to back up the conguration of your RPS unit.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /U [Enter]

11-8

Command Reference Guide

/UL Unlock Port (Invalid Access Lockout)

Manually cancels the RPS’s Invalid Access Lockout feature. Normally, when a series of failed
login attempts are detected, the Invalid Access Lockout feature can shut down the network
port for a user specied time period in order to prevent further access attempts. When the /UL
command is invoked, the RPS will immediately unlock all network ports that are currently in the
locked state.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /UL [Enter]
Response: The RPS will unlock all RPS RS232 Ports.

11.3.3. Configuration Commands

/F Set System Parameters

Displays a menu which is used to dene general system parameters. Note that all functions
provided by the /F command are also available via the Web Browser Interface. For more
information, please refer to Section 5.3.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /F [Enter]

/P Set Serial Port Parameters

Displays a menu that is used to select options and parameters for the RPS's serial Setup Port.
Note that all functions provided by the /P command are also available via the Web Browser
Interface. Section 5.8 describes the procedure for dening serial SetUp Port parameters.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /P [Enter]

/PL Set Plug Parameters

Displays a menu that is used to select options and parameters for the RPS's switched outlets
(plugs). Note that all functions provided by the /PL command are also available via the Web
Browser Interface. Section 5.7 describes the procedure for dening plug parameters.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /PL [Enter]

/G Plug Group Parameters

Displays a menu that is used to View, Add, Modify or Delete Plug Groups. For more information
on Plug Groups, please refer to Section 5.6.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /G [Enter]

11-9

Command Reference Guide

/N Network Port Parameters

Displays a menu which is used to select parameters for the Network Port. Also allows access to
the IP Security function, which can restrict network access by unauthorized IP addresses. Note
that all of the functions provided by the /N command are also available via the Web Browser
Interface. For more information, please refer to Section 5.9.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /N [Enter]

/I Reboot System (Default)

Reinitializes the RPS unit and offers the option to keep user-dened parameters or reset to default
parameters. As described in Section 5.10.1, the /I command can also be used to restore the unit to
previously saved parameters. When the /I command is invoked, the unit will offer the following
reboot options:

• Unit to Reboot

• Reboot Only (Do NOT default parameters)

• Reboot & Default (Keep IP Parameters)

• Reboot & Default (Default ALL parameters)

• Reboot & Restore Last Known Working Conguration

Availability: Administrator, SuperUser
Format: /I [Enter]

/UF Upgrade Firmware

When new versions of the RPS rmware become available, this command is used to update
existing rmware as described in Section 10.

Note: When a rmware upgrade is performed, it will take about 15 minutes to
upgrade the RPS unit. Do not cycle power during the rmware upgrade.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /UF [Enter]

11-10

Command Reference Guide

/TEST Test Network Parameters

Displays a menu which is used to test conguration of the Syslog function and can also be used to
invoke a Ping Command. For more information, please refer to Section 8.

Notes:

• In order for the ping command to function with domain names, Domain Name

Server parameters must be dened as described in Section 5.9.5.

• The Test Menu's Ping command is not effected by the status of the Network

Parameters Menu's Ping Access function.

Availability: Administrator
Format: /TEST [Enter]

11-11

Appendix A. Specifications

RPS820:

Outlets: (8) IEC 60320 C13
ACVoltage: 200/250V, 50/60 Hz
InputFeeds: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)
CircuitBreakers: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)

RPS830:

Outlets: (8) NEMA 5-15R
ACVoltage: 85/125V, 50/60 Hz
InputFeeds: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)
CircuitBreakers: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)

RPS1620H:

Outlets: (16) IEC 60320 C13
ACVoltage: 200/250V, 50/60 Hz
InputFeeds: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)
CircuitBreakers: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)

RPS1630H:

Outlets: (16) NEMA 5-15R
ACVoltage: 85/125V, 50/60 Hz
InputFeeds: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)
CircuitBreakers: (2) 16 Amps (De-rated)

Physical/Environmental:

ModelsRPS820andRPS830(8-PlugModels):

Width: 19” (48.3 cm) (Including Rack Brackets)
Depth: 8.7” (22.1 cm)
Height: 1.75” (4.5 cm) One Rack U

ModelsRPS1620andRPS1630(16-PlugModels):

Width: 19” (48.3 cm) (Including Rack Brackets)
Depth: 8.7” (22.1 cm)
Height: 3.5” (8.9 cm) Two Rack U

OperatingTemperature: 32˚F to 122˚F (0˚C to 50˚C)
Humidity: 10 - 90% RH
EthernetPort: 10/100 BaseT
SetUpPort: RJ45, RS232C

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Appendix B. Interface Descriptions

RJ-45

Pin No.

RTS Request to Send

1

2

DTR

TXD

3

4

GND

5

Pin 8

Figure B.1: SetUp Port Interface (RJ45, Cisco Pinout)

Pin 1

RXD

DCD

CTS

6

7

8

B.1. SetUp Port

DCD and DTR hardware lines function as follows:

1. Whenconnected:

a) If either port is set for Modem Mode, the DTR output at either port reects the DCD

input at the other end.

b) If neither port is set for Modem Mode, DTR output is held high (active).

2. Whennotconnected:

Ready Out

Data Out

Ground

Data In

Carrier Detect

Clear to Send

a) If the port is set for Modem Mode, upon disconnect DTR output is pulsed for 0.5

seconds and then held high.

b) If the port is not set for Modem Mode, DTR output is controlled by the DTR Output

option (Serial Port Parameters Menu, Option 23). Upon disconnect, Option 23 allows
DTR output to be held low, held high, or pulsed for 0.5 seconds and then held high.

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Appendix C. Customer Service

C.1. Contacting Technical Support

Contact information for the Perle Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) can be found at the link
below. A Technical Support Query can be made via this web page:

www.perle.com/support_services/support_request.shtml

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Appendices

Trademark and Copyright Information

This document must not be reproduced in any way whatsoever, either printed or electronically,
without the consent of:

Perle Systems Limited
60 Renfrew Drive
Markham ON
Canada
L3R 0E1

Perle reserves the right to make changes without further notice, to any products to improve
reliability, function or design.

Microsoft and Internet Explorer are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Netscape is a trademark of Netscape Communications Corporation.

ProComm is a registered trademark of DATASTORM TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

Crosstalk is a registered trademark of Digital Communications Associates, Inc.

VT100 is a trademark of Digital Equipment Corporation.

AT is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

JavaScript is a registered trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc.

© Perle Systems Limited, October, 2011.

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