ProSoft Technology PLX35-NB2 User Manual
PLX35-NB2
Network Bridge
November 15, 2018
USER MANUAL
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PLX35-NB2 User Manual
November 15, 2018
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In an effort to conserve paper, ProSoft Technology no longer includes printed manuals with our product shipments.
User Manuals, Datasheets, Sample Ladder Files, and Configuration Files are provided at our website:
www.prosoft-technology.com
Content Disclaimer
This documentation is not intended as a substitute for and is not to be used for determining suitability or reliability of
these products for specific user applications. It is the duty of any such user or integrator to perform the appropriate
and complete risk analysis, evaluation and testing of the products with respect to the relevant specific application or
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Printed documentation is available for purchase. Contact ProSoft Technology for pricing and availability.
Important Installation Instructions
Power, Input, and Output (I/O) wiring must be in accordance with Class I, Division 2 wiring methods, Article 501-4 (b)
of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70 for installation in the U.S., or as specified in Section 18-1J2 of the Canadian
Electrical Code for installations in Canada, and in accordance with the authority having jurisdiction. The following
warnings must be heeded:
WARNING - EXPLOSION HAZARD - SUBSTITUTION OF COMPONENTS MAY IMPAIR SUITABILITY FOR CLASS
I, DIV. 2;
WARNING - EXPLOSION HAZARD - WHEN IN HAZARDOUS LOCATIONS, TURN OFF POWER BEFORE
REPLACING OR WIRING MODULES
WARNING - EXPLOSION HAZARD - DO NOT DISCONNECT EQUIPMENT UNLESS POWER HAS BEEN
SWITCHED OFF OR THE AREA IS KNOWN TO BE NON-HAZARDOUS.
Class 2 Power
Agency Approvals and Certifications
Please visit our website: www.prosoft-technology.com
PLX35-NB2 Contents
Network Bridge User Manual
Contents
Your Feedback Please ........................................................................................................................ 2
How to Contact Us .............................................................................................................................. 2
Content Disclaimer .............................................................................................................................. 2
Important Installation Instructions ....................................................................................................... 3
Agency Approvals and Certifications .................................................................................................. 3
1 Start Here 7
1.1 About the PLX35-NB2 Network Bridge ..................................................................... 7
1.1.1 Specifications ............................................................................................................ 8
1.2 PLX35-NB2 Package Contents ................................................................................. 9
1.3 Jumper Information ................................................................................................... 9
2 Quick Start 11
2.1 Local Configuration ................................................................................................. 11
2.2 ProSoft Connect Setup and Configuration .............................................................. 11
3 Installing the PLX35-NB2 13
3.1 LED Indicators ......................................................................................................... 14
4 Local Configuration using the PLX35-NB2 Configuration Webpage 17
4.1 Connecting to the PLX35-NB2 Webpage................................................................ 17
4.2 Using the Overview Tab .......................................................................................... 19
4.3 Setting Gateway Configuration Parameters ............................................................ 19
4.4 Configuring Login Credentials ................................................................................. 22
4.5 Viewing Gateway Log file Activity ........................................................................... 24
4.6 Importing a Configuration File ................................................................................. 25
4.7 Exporting a Configuration File ................................................................................. 25
4.8 Updating the Gateway's Firmware (NB2) ................................................................ 26
4.9 Rebooting the Gateway ........................................................................................... 27
5 Cloud-based Management using ProSoft Connect 29
5.1 Login and Activate ProSoft Connect ....................................................................... 29
5.2 Create a new VPN Client ........................................................................................ 32
5.3 Establish a VPN Connection ................................................................................... 36
5.3.1 Verifying the VPN Connection ................................................................................. 39
5.4 Using ProSoft Connect to Configure the PLX35-NB2 ............................................. 40
5.5 Adding Team Members ........................................................................................... 43
5.5.1 Editing Team Member Access ................................................................................ 44
5.6 Changing Firmware ................................................................................................. 45
6 Ethernet Cable Specifications 49
6.1 Ethernet Cable Configuration .................................................................................. 49
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Contents PLX35-NB2
User Manual Network Bridge
7 Support, Service & Warranty 51
7.1 Contacting Technical Support ................................................................................. 51
7.2 Warranty Information .............................................................................................. 53
Index 55
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PLX35-NB2 ♦ Start Here
Network Bridge User Manual
1 Start Here
1.1 About the PLX35-NB2 Network Bridge
The PLX35-NB2 Network Bridge is the ideal solution for system integrators,
machine builders, and OEMs requiring remote system access for commissioning,
troubleshooting, or network maintenance.
During the commissioning phase, a network bridge is deployed on site with
automation equipment. Once the equipment is installed and ready for
configuration and programming, the bridge allows the user to remotely access
the network to commission, maintain, and troubleshoot the system, thereby
reducing travel time costs.
By deploying a network bridge to an existing network, the network bridge allows
access from anywhere by authorized personnel. In the event of unscheduled
downtime, an authorized user can connect to the network to minimize downtime
and loss of profit.
Module configuration and remote connections are accomplished through ProSoft
Connect, ProSoft Technology's secure, cloud-native platform for the Industrial
Internet of Things (IoT).
The PLX35-NB2 allows users to:
Securely connect to remote devices from any PC without having to use a 3rd-
party software application
Locally control the VPN connection through an EtherNet/IP® message.
The PLX35-NB2 provides 2 Ethernet ports. One port is used for the local network
requiring remote access. The second port is used to connect to the internet.
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Start Here PLX35-NB2 ♦
Power
24 VDC nominal, 10 to 36 VDC allowed, Positive, Negative, and
GND terminals
Power Connector
Three pin, screw terminal, screw retention, black
Current Load
24 VDC nominal @300 mA
EtherNet/IP
Supports local control of VPN access through MSG instruction.
Network Ports
HTTP or HTTPS ports 8080
Enclosure
Extruded aluminum with DIN clip
Dimensions
(H x W x D)
5.52 x 2.06 x 4.37 in
14.01 x 5.24 x 11.09 cm
Shock
IEC 60068-2-27; 20G @ 11ms (Operational)
IEC 60068-2-27; 30G @ 11ms (Non-Operational)
Vibration
IEC 60068-2-6; 10G, 10 to 150 Hz
Ethernet Port
(2) 10/100 Base-T, RJ45 connector
Operating Temperature
IEC 60068; -22°F to +158°F (-30°C to +70°C)
Humidity
IEC 60068-30; 5% to 95%, with no condensation
External Power
10 to 30 VDC
Peak Power Consumption
< 6W
User Manual Network Bridge
1.1.1 Specifications
Power
Internal Specs
Physical
Environmental
Agency Approvals & Certifications
Please visit our website: www.prosoft-technology.com
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November 15, 2018
PLX35-NB2 ♦ Start Here
Qty.
Part Name
Part Number
Part Description
1
PLX35-NB2 Network
Bridge
PLX35-NB2
2-port Network Bridge
1
2-pin Power
Connector
002-0116
Power Connector
Network Bridge User Manual
1.2 PLX35-NB2 Package Contents
The following components are included with the PLX35-NB2 and are required for
installation and configuration.
Important: Before beginning the installation, please verify all of the following items are present.
If any of these components are missing, please contact ProSoft Technology
Technical Support for replacement parts. See Contacting Technical Support
(page 51).
1.3 Jumper Information
The module has one visible set of jumper pins on the back of the gateway. These
pins should only be jumped/shunted when resetting the gateway back to factory
defaults.
To perform a factory reset:
1 Set the jumper on both pins and power-cycle the module.
2 Wait until the FLT, CFG and ERR LED’s flash in a reverse-clockwise
direction (the gateway should boot twice by then).
3 You will notice all the LED’s flashing twice (except interface LED’s).
4 Remove the jumper and wait for the gateway to finish the power-cycle.
5 When the factory reset has finished, the CFG LED flashes.
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PLX35-NB2 ♦
User Manual Network Bridge
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November 15, 2018
PLX35-NB2 ♦ Quick Start
Task
Page
Install the module
13
Connect to the PLX35-NB2 webpage
17
Set gateway configuration parameters
19
Configure login credentials
22
Update firmware
26
Task
Page
Obtain an activation key and login to
ProSoft Connect
29
Create a VPN client
32
Establish a VPN Connection
36
Perform configuration functions in
ProSoft Connect
40
Add Team Members
43
Change Firmware if required
45
Network Bridge User Manual
2 Quick Start
2.1 Local Configuration
At this point, your gateway is configured. You can now perform a number of other
functions to customize and use the gateway. This manual describes all of the
functions and features available to you.
2.2 ProSoft Connect Setup and Configuration
You can configure, maintain, and troubleshoot the gateway through ProSoft
Connect.
ProSoft Connect allows you to remotely perform all available features and
functions. These features and functions are described within this document.
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PLX35-NB2 ♦
User Manual Network Bridge
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PLX35-NB2 ♦ Installing the PLX35-NB2
Network Bridge User Manual
3 Installing the PLX35-NB2
Mount the PLX35-NB2 such that:
There is easy access for the cables to ensure that they are not bent,
constricted, in close proximity to high amperage, or exposed to extreme
temperatures.
The LEDs on the front panel are visible for troubleshooting and verifying the
gateway status.
There is adequate airflow around the gateway, but also protected from direct
exposure to the elements, such as sun, rain, and dust.
Caution: The PLX35-NB2 is in a hardened case, and is designed for use in industrial and extreme
environments; however, unless you are using cables expressly designed for such environments,
the cables can fail if exposed to the same conditions the PLX35-NB2 can withstand.
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Installing the PLX35-NB2 PLX35-NB2 ♦
LED
State
Description
MGMT
Off
The module cannot reach the internet and is not managed
by ProSoft Connect (default).
Flashing Green
The module can reach the internet.
Solid Green
The module is managed by a ProSoft Connect account.
Solid Red
N/A
Flashing Red
The module is configured to be managed by ProSoft
Connect but cannot reach ProSoft Connect.
Alternating Red/Green
N/A
VPN
Off
ProSoft Connect is not enabled (default).
Flashing Green
VPN is possible (normal).
Solid Green
A VPN tunnel is established.
Solid Red
The module is managed by ProSoft Connect and EIP has
disabled VPN tunneling.
Flashing Red
VPN connection failed.
Alternating Red/Green
N/A
PWR (Power)
Off
Power is not connected to the power terminals or source is
insufficient to properly power the module.
Solid Green
Sufficient power is connected to the power terminals.
FLT (Fault)
Off
Normal operation
Solid Red
A critical error has occurred. Program executable has
failed or has been user-terminated and is no longer
running. Press the Reset button or cycle power to clear the
error.
CFG
Off
Normal operation
Flashing Amber
The module has no configuration.
Solid Amber
The module is in configuration mode. Either a
configuration error exists, or the configuration file is
currently being downloaded or read. After power-up or
after the Reset button is pressed, the configuration is read
and the module implements the configuration values and
initializes the hardware.
ERR
Off
Normal operation
Flashing Amber
An error condition has been detected and is occurring on
one of the application ports. Check configuration and
troubleshoot for communication errors.
Solid Amber
The ERR LED is cleared on receipt of a well-formed
allowed packet. On receipt of data packet containing an
unsupported protocol, the LED is lit. If the LED is solid, a
large number of errors are occurring on one or more ports
(network communication errors).
User Manual Network Bridge
3.1 LED Indicators
The following tables describe the diagnostic LEDs on the front of the PLX35NB2.
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PLX35-NB2 ♦ Installing the PLX35-NB2
LED
State
Description
100 Mbit
Off
No activity on the port
Flashing Amber
The Ethernet port is actively transmitting or receiving data.
LNK/ACT
Off
No physical connection is detected. No Ethernet
communication is possible. Check wiring and cables.
Solid Green
Physical network connection detected. This LED must be
ON (solid) for Ethernet communication to be possible.
Network Bridge User Manual
Ethernet Port LEDs
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PLX35-NB2 ♦
User Manual Network Bridge
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PLX35-NB2 ♦ Local Configuration using the PLX35-NB2 Configuration Webpage
Network Bridge User Manual
4 Local Configuration using the PLX35-NB2
Configuration Webpage
The PLX35-NB2 contains a browser-based configuration webpage used for
configuration. The following sections describe the configuration process.
4.1 Connecting to the PLX35-NB2 Webpage
1 Ensure that the module is connected to the network through the LAN port.
2 Apply power to the module.
3 To log into the PLX35-NB2 configuration webpage through the network, your
PC must be able to connect to the PLX35-NB2. The default IP address of the
PLX35-NB2 is 192.168.0.250. If your PC is on a different subnet, temporarily
set the IP address of your PC to 192.168.0.xxx with a subnet of
255.255.255.0 (where xxx is an available address on the network).
Note: You can also use ProSoft Discovery Service to discover the IP address. You can download
and install ProSoft Discovery Services from the ProSoft website at www.prosoft-technology.com.
4 Open a web browser on your PC and enter the PLX35-NB2 default address
of: 192.168.0.250:8080. Minimum browser requirements include Chrome 58,
Firefox 54, and Internet Explorer 10.
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