Rice Lake AirStream Operation Manual
AirStream
Wireless Modem
Operation
™
Manual
Contents
Chapter 1: Overview1......................................................................................... 1
Why Wireless? ....................................................................................................1
AirStream Technology ........................................................................................................2
Frequency Hopping .................................................................................................................. 3
Speed and Bandwidth .............................................................................................................3
Sessions and Links................................................................................................................... 4
Error Detection and Correction .................................................................................................4
Transmit Power Control ............................................................................................................ 5
Data Transfer Sessions ............................................................................................................ 5
Security.............................................................................................................................. 6
Transceiver Features ..........................................................................................................6
Using This Manual ............................................................................................................. 7
Assumptions ....................................................................................................................... 8
Getting Help........................................................................................................................ 8
Chapter 2: Installation and Specifications ....................................................9
Hardware Installation ........................................................................................................ 9
Installing Stand-alone Transceivers .........................................................................................9
Interface Requirements .................................................................................................. 11
Stand-alone Transceiver Pin Out .............................................................................................12
Serial Communications ................................................................................................... 13
Hardware Specifications ................................................................................................. 15
Software Requirements ................................................................................................... 16
Software Installation ........................................................................................................ 16
Configuration Manager ............................................................................................................16
Network Software Utilities ....................................................................................................... 17
Antennas ...........................................................................................................................17
Chapter 3: Point to Point and Network Topologies .....................................19
Point to Point Pair.............................................................................................................19
Networks ..........................................................................................................................19
Multi-Point Network ................................................................................................................ 20
Repeater Network ...................................................................................................................20
Broadcast Network................................................................................................................. 22
Network Software Utilities ...............................................................................................23
Copyright © 2002 Rice Lake Weighing Systems. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
February 2002
i
ComPort Intercept ..................................................................................................................23
TCP/IP Intercept .....................................................................................................................24
ActiveX Library ........................................................................................................................ 24
DOS Library............................................................................................................................ 24
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Transceiver ........................................................25
Getting Status .................................................................................................................. 26
The Toolbar ...................................................................................................................... 27
Exiting the program .......................................................................................................... 27
Quick Configuration ................................................................................................... 27
Modifying Settings ..................................................................................................... 31
Applying and Storing Changes......................................................................................... 31
Generating Reports ....................................................................................................32
Power Management................................................................................................... 34
Passwords and Access............................................................................................... 36
Levels Of Access .............................................................................................................36
Passwords .......................................................................................................................36
Using Hop Tables......................................................................................................... 37
Entering Hop Table Numbers ...........................................................................................37
Validating the Hop Table.................................................................................................. 38
Specifying Hopping Parameters .......................................................................................38
Assigning IDs.............................................................................................................. 39
Signal Analysis .......................................................................................................... 41
Serial Settings ............................................................................................................ 41
Data Threshold ........................................................................................................... 43
Chapter 5: Setting up a Network with ComPort ..............................................45
ComPort Configurator ................................................................................................ 46
Advanced View ................................................................................................................48
Entering and Changing Information .................................................................................. 48
Adding Virtual Ports ......................................................................................................... 48
Setting Control Line Parameters ....................................................................................... 51
Tx Purge........................................................................................................................... 51
Remove Unit ID Number .................................................................................................. 52
Remove Virtual Communications Port............................................................................... 53
Renaming Virtual Ports ..................................................................................................... 53
Using ComPort Activator............................................................................................ 53
ComPort Activator ............................................................................................................54
ii
Chapter 6: Setting up a Network with TCP/IP .............................................. 55
TCP/IP Configurator ..........................................................................................................56
Advanced View....................................................................................................................... 57
Entering and Changing Information ......................................................................................... 58
Adding TCP/IP Ports ...............................................................................................................58
Editing Ports ...........................................................................................................................60
Setting Control Line Parameters.............................................................................................. 61
Remove Unit ID Number .........................................................................................................61
Remove TCP/IP COM Port ......................................................................................................62
Renaming TCP/IP Ports ..........................................................................................................62
Monitoring Activity ........................................................................................................... 62
Using TCP/IP Activator..................................................................................................... 64
TCP/IP Activator ..................................................................................................................... 64
Chapter 7: ActiveX Network Applications 67
wCi_OPEN ........................................................................................................................67
wCi_Close ........................................................................................................................68
wCi_WriteDataEx .............................................................................................................68
wCi_GetDestinationID ......................................................................................................69
wCi_CheckRxQue ............................................................................................................. 69
wCi_SetOutputDeviceID ...................................................................................................69
wCi_StartStopPrinting ......................................................................................................70
wCi_GetSourceID .............................................................................................................70
wCi_SetGpioOutput ..........................................................................................................71
wCi_GetGpioOutput ..........................................................................................................71
wCi_GetGpioInput ............................................................................................................72
wCi_GetGpioMode ............................................................................................................72
wCi_Ping ..........................................................................................................................73
AboutBox ..........................................................................................................................73
NewMessage..................................................................................................................... 73
ActiveX Design Time Properties Page:............................................................................ 74
Chapter 8: Testing Your Units .......................................................................75
Terminal Mode Test .........................................................................................................75
What You Need .......................................................................................................................75
Performing the Test................................................................................................................. 76
Loopback Test ..................................................................................................................76
What You Need....................................................................................................................... 77
Performing the Test ................................................................................................................77
Viewing Data In The Rx And Tx Panes ....................................................................................79
iii
Using Hyperterminal ...............................................................................................................80
Chapter 9: Troubleshooting.............................................................................. 81
Chapter 10: Learning Exercises....................................................................... 83
Point to Point .............................................................................................................. 83
Materials Needed ............................................................................................................. 83
Procedure........................................................................................................................ 83
Multi-Point ComPort Intercept................................................................................... 86
Materials Needed ............................................................................................................. 86
Procedure........................................................................................................................ 86
Multi-Point TCP/IP Intercept ...................................................................................... 91
Materials Needed.............................................................................................................. 91
Procedure ........................................................................................................................91
Repeater TCP/IP Intercept ......................................................................................... 95
Materials Needed ............................................................................................................. 95
Procedure ........................................................................................................................95
Broadcast Remote-To-All .........................................................................................100
Materials Needed........................................................................................................... 100
Procedure ......................................................................................................................100
Broadcast Remote-To-Host ...................................................................................... 104
Materials Needed ........................................................................................................... 104
Procedure ......................................................................................................................104
Glossary........................................................................................................... 109
Warranty ..........................................................................................................110
iv
Chapter 1: Overview
WHY WIRELESS?
Welcome to the AirStream
Transceivers. These frequency hopping transceivers
are supplied as a Stand-alone Transceiver that plugs
into the RS232 port of an existing product and can be
used to create wireless data networks in the licensefree band at 2.4 GHz. AirStream Transceivers can
function in a wide array of network topologies. This
manual provides the information you need to install,
configure, and test this transceiver in a variety of
these networks.
AirStream Transcei vers provide the first practical and
affordable alternative to wire for industrial and
commercial applications where data must be
transmitted reliably and securely in a wide range of
indoor and outdoor environments. These applications
are solutions for OEMs and Systems Integrators in
need of reliable, secure, long-range, and low-cost
alternatives to wire for commercial and industrial
applications. There are hundreds of factory, office,
industrial, transportation, medical, financial, and
retail applications for which AirStream solutions are
ideally suited.
™
family of wireless
In this Chapter
•Why Wireless
• AirStream
Technology
•Frequency
Hopping
• Security
•Transceiver
Features
• Assumptions
• Using this
Manual
• Getting Help
Wireless data connectivity offers many advantages
over wire:
• Wireless systems are easier to install
• Wireless system installation and maintenance
costs are lower
• Wireless links are feasible in many locations
where wire is not
• Wireless installations can be reconfigured or
relocated easily
• Wireless products are mobile
AirStream User’s Manual
1
AirStream Technology
Overview
Reliability , security, range, and cost have been the traditional obstacles to
widespread adoption of wireless data networks. But today frequency
hopping technology provides reliability comparable to and security
greater than wire. AirStream T ranscei vers ha ve been designed specifically
for long range and low cost. Moreover, the license-free band at 2.4GHz
allows wireless data connectivity solutions to be implemented without
site licenses or carrier fees. These developments make wireless data
networks more practical and affordable than wire for many applications.
AirStream wireless data connectivity solutions are more reliable, more
secure, longer range, and lower cost than wire:
• More Reliable
AirStream Transceivers evaluated with industry standard test
equipment have exceeded a bit error rate (BER) standard 100 times
more rigorous than for 10 BaseT Ethernet and 1,000 times more
reliably than cellular devices.
• More Secure
AirStream Transceivers utilize frequency hopping technology
developed by the military and refined by intelligence agencies to
avoid interception and interference. It is more difficult to intercept
communications between AirStream wireless devices than to tap a
wire.
• Longer Range
AirStream Transceivers operate through walls and floors up to 1,500
feet in most buildings, and line-of-sight to the horizon outdoors. For
longer distances, networks of AirStream Transceivers can relay data
packets to and from out-of-range devices to significantly extend the
range of a wireless data network.
• Lower Cost
Wireless devices are installed at prices that can be a fraction of the
cost of wires. AirStream devices can be moved or reconfigured at no
additional cost.
AIRSTREAM T ECHNOLOGY
AirStream uses Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology
to ensure secure, reliable long-range data transmissions. AirStream
utilizes this proven technology to provide OEMs and Systems Inte grators
with a superior wireless data connectivity solution for many industrial and
commercial applications.
AirStream User’s Manual
2
2.483
.
.
.
2.4
Transmitting
Transceiver
.
.
.
.
.
.
Frequency Hopping
Interference
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Receiving
Transceiver
AirStream Technology
Overview
Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum technology was developed by the
U.S. military to prevent interference or interception of radio transmissions
on the battlefield. Frequency hopping devices concentrate their full po wer
into a very narrow signal and randomly hop from one frequency to
another within that spectrum up to 200 times per second. If they
encounter interference on a particular frequency, the devices retain the
affected data, randomly hop to another point on the spectrum, and
continue transmission. There are always spaces without interference
somewhere in the allotted radio spectrum. A frequency hopping device
will find those spaces and complete a transmission where other wireless
technologies fail.
AirStream Transceivers operate in the license-free Industrial, Scientific,
and Medical (ISM) band at 2.4GHz. No one owns or licenses these
frequency bands. Consequently, anyone may operate a wireless network
in a license-free band without licenses or carrier fees (unlike cellular
technology), subject only to restrictions on how much power can be used
(1 watt or less in the U.S.) and the type of radio signals transmitted
(spread spectrum). The U.S. FCC and telecommunications regulators in
many countries have designated this band for low-power license-free use.
Speed and Bandwidth
There is a common misconception regarding speed and data connectivity;
specifically, that faster is better. In computer and telecommunications
networks, higher speeds are unquestionably superior . Ho wever , this is not
the case with wireless data connectivity. There are many circumstances
where range, in-building penetration, and reliability are more important
than speed.
Paying for more speed than what is necessary to implement a data
connectivity application is not efficient. The broader radio frequency (RF)
bandwidth needed to transmit higher data rates dramatically reduces
range. In contrast, the lower data rates used by AirStream allow narrow
bandwidths to be used. This is ideal for intermittent, repetitive data
transfer, where the premium is on accuracy and long-range transmission.
AirStream products have been designed specifically to meet the
requirements of such applications. A lower data rate enables AirStream
Transceiv ers to operate within a narro w RF band o ver significantly longer
ranges than other 2.4 GHz Frequency Hopping or Direct Sequence Spread
Spectrum (DSSS) products.
AirStream User’s Manual
3
AirStream Technology
Overview
Sessions and Links
AirStream Transceivers use demand-based frequency hopping where RF
is only transmitted when there is data available to transmit. The initiating
transceiver is termed the master and the recei ving transcei v er is called the
slave. Any device (host or remote transceiver) can be a master or a slave
depending on who initiates the data transfer. AirStream Transceivers
transmit data using sessions and links. A session represents a complete
data transfer cycle between two devices. The session lasts as long as it
takes to transfer all of the data being sent. A session can be comprised of a
number of links which represent the actual transfer of data between two
devices. Radio interference can break a link but not end a session. It may
take several links to complete a session. If a link is broken, it is the job of
the master to reinitiate the link in order to complete the session. This
strategy reduces the collision rate of packets and RF interference from
adjacent devices.
Data going in and out of the transceiver via the serial port is (or can be) a
continuous stream of information; whereas, data transmitted over the air
is broken into frames. Links consist of these frames. The frame represents
the physical data packet transmitted per hop between units.
The transceiver’s channel access (communications link) is based on the
Carrier Sense Multiple Access (CSMA) protocol. This protocol has the
advantage of requiring no special coordination between remotes and
works best with a large or variable number of remotes transmitting
infrequent bursts of data. Channel latency is exponentially distributed,
meaning there is a wait cycle during interference. During interference,
data is hopped to another frequency. Although there is a slight delay
during each hop, data is not lost.
Error Detection and Correction
AirStream Transceivers provide CRC error correction, forward error
correction, and transmission retry to ensure complete transmissions, even
in the most demanding circumstances.
The transceiver uses the ITU cyclical redundancy code 16 (CRC-16) for
error detection. Two separate CRC-16 checks are used within each packet
frame:
• Header Section
• Data Section
AirStream User’s Manual
4
1.
2.
3.
AirStream Technology
Overview
Most wireless systems experience single bit errors as the most common
type of reception error. Forward Error Correction (FEC) can be used to
correct for a specific number of bit errors within x -number of bits
transmitted. AirStream uses a ‘Half Rate Coding’ algorithm which
achieves a correction rate of 1 bit-error in 4 bits transmitted.
The transceiver maintains data integrity over the air by means of an
internal automatic-repeat-request (ARQ) protocol, which will resend
erroneous data until it is received correctly. The transceiver takes user
data and breaks it into packets which are then transmitted at a much
higher channel data rate. If the received packet has errors and is not
correctable via the forward-error-correction (FEC) algorithm, the packet
is rejected and resent until a valid packet is received. The transceiver
maintains two 4kB buffers (transmit and receive) which helps to support
continuous uninterrupted transfers even in noisy situations. See Broadcast
Network on page 22 for details on how Broadcast Network behavior
differs.
Transmit Power Control
Wireless devices in close proximity often experience desensing or overloading. AirStream Transceivers minimize this problem by providing
adjustments in the Power Level Feed-Back Control Loop based on the
time-averaged Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) values and the
Actual Power Level Setting as shared between both devices during a
communication session.
Data T ransfer Sessions
All units are in one of six possible sequential modes or phases of
operation which cover the complete cycle of data transfer.
Idle
Unit listens and scans in each of the 75 channels in the hop table. No
activity.
Link Acquisition
Data is present locally , unit be gins to ping (search) each frequenc y in hop
table to find the remote unit.
Synchronization
Units on both ends of data transfer synchronize their hopping patterns.
AirStream User’s Manual
5
Security
Overview
SECURITY
Data Transfer
In-sync units each alternate transmitting and receiving data in 32msec
intervals (32msec Tx, 32msec Rx). Each 64 msec they hop to the next
frequency.
Exit Phase
Data transfer is complete based upon the setting for number of frames of
No Data specified in the transceiver’s configuration.
End Connection
Data transfer is complete, units return to Idle mode.
Frequency hopping is inherently more secure than other RF technologies.
In addition, each AirStream Transceiver has a Vendor ID set in the
firmware shipped straight from the factory. As you configure each
transceiver you may provide additional network ID numbers and assign
varying hop tables for independent networks. The combination of
firmware, software IDs, and frequency hopping technology ensures safe
and secure data transmissions. AirStream Transceivers also support your
data encryption software.
4.
5.
6.
TRANSCEIVER FEATURES
AirStream Transceivers enable OEMs and Systems Integrators to
integrate license-free 2.4GHz frequency hopping technology into their
own products. Each transceiver includes a proprietary RF module with a
frequency hopping transmitter and receiver, a Digital Control Module for
RF Module and Application Interf ace management, and an interface (TTL
or RS232) designed to communicate with a variety of products. The
AirStream Transceivers employ a wireless interface designed to function
as a virtual wire replacement.This offers some distinct advantages over
wire. AirStream Transceivers:
• Enable mobility that may not have been possible before. And using
either the RS232 or RS485 serial connection, the transceivers can
connect devices at long range—up to 1500 feet indoors, and line of
sight to the horizon.
• Compensate for baud rate differences between devices, eliminating
the need for converters between older, slower devices and newer,
somewhat faster ones.
AirStream User’s Manual
6
• Provide a GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) mode for enabling
• Provide both Software and Hardware Flow Control to enable pacing
• Enable efficient timed or batched transmission of data through data
• Provide power control modes for power conservation.
• Provide asymmetrical data rates to accommodate large directional
• Provide the configurabilitiy to support a variety of network topologies.
• Can be upgraded in the field.
USING THIS MANUAL
All AirStream software applications are Windows® based and adhere to
Windows software conventions.
Using This Manual
Overview
communication of status and control information in addition to data.
This ensures timely notification of state changes such as an “out of
paper” indication, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual
checking for such conditions.
of data transmission between devices.
thresholding capabilities.
data transfers.
The conventions used for instructions in this manual are as follows:
Convention
bold
click Click with the button on the mouse and release. Left button always implied on
Control-e Hold down the Control key and press the E key.
double-click Click two times quickly on the mouse button and release.
right-click Click with the right button on the mouse and release.
select This can mean to highlight (which is the action of changing a screen object’s
Shift-click Hold down the Shift key and click.
Definition
Bold is used to indicate something that should be typed exactly or an exact
duplication of a window name or button.
Windows.
attribute to have an inverted look on the screen) icons or list items by clicking
or by clicking a menu item and dragging the cursor over its options to choose
that option or sub-item.
AirStream User’s Manual
7
Assumptions
Overview
ASSUMPTIONS
GETTING HELP
It is assumed that you are familiar with your Windows operating system.
It is also assumed that your Windows operating system is operating in
default mode (e.g., double-click to open). All instructions in this manual
assume default mode (as delivered) operation.
Each software program has on-line help accessible through the help menu
within the program. For Technical Support call 1-800-472-6703.
AirStream User’s Manual
8
Chapter 2: Installation and Specifications
This chapter discusses the physical installation of the
transceiver and the installation of the software
needed to configure each transceiver. All AirStream
Transceivers need to be configured for a specific
network topology. This process involves
understanding how the equipment is physically
installed and how the software is installed.
Sequentially, all transceivers are configured on a
Host PC prior to being physically attached to their
designated device. Configuration of the transceivers
is discussed in Chapter 4, Configuring your
Transceiver on page 25.
HARDWARE INSTALLATION
Prior to installing your transceiver(s), please count
all of the delivered equipment. Use your packing slip
or purchase order for verification. Each transceiver
needs power and an antenna. It will be attached either
internally or externally to a single device(e.g., PC,
laptop, or printer).
In this Chapter
• Hardware
Installation
• Interface
Requirements
• Pin Outs
• Serial
Communication
• Hardware
Specifications
• Software
Requirements
• Software
Installation
• Antennas
Installing Stand-alone Transceivers
To Install Stand-alone Transceivers
1. Insert the power supply male connector into the
corresponding female connector slot on transceiver
chassis.
Power
Power
RS232 Antenna
2. Insert Power supply plug into power (i.e., power
outlet)
AirStream User’s Manual
9
Hardware Installation
Installation and Specifications
3. Attach the Antenna to the transceiver.
4. Attach the male connector on the RS232 cable to the matching serial port
5. Connect the other end of this cable to the matching serial port on the
Note: Prior to installation on the desired device, all transceivers must first be
Verify LEDs 1 and 2 on front panel blink three times. LED 1 remains lit.
Note that the antenna connection is a reverse thread SMA connection. Y ou
must turn it counter-clockwise to attach.
on the rear panel of the transceiver.
device.
connected to and configured with a PC. In the case of some network
installations, it must be the Host PC.
AirStream User’s Manual
10
INTERFACE REQUIREMENTS
Design-in Stand-alone
Input Power Requirements
Voltage +5.0 Volts, +/- 5% Greater than 6.5 Volts and
Ripple Less then 10mV(RMS) from DC to
1MHz
Current in Idle
mode
Instantaneous
Current in Tx mode
Time averaged
(over 100mSec.)
Current in Tx/Rx
mode
Physical Interface Requirements
Electrical Interface Voltage Levels
Input levels Low <1.5 Volts;
Output levels Low < 0.4 Volts;
Open Collector
Output
~200mA ~200mA
550mA 550mA
~360mA ~360mA
PCB connector: 1x12 right angle
connector; 0.025 square pin @ 0.1
spacing
Matching connector: AMP Part
Number 2-87499-1 or equivalent
High > 3.5 Volts @ 20uA
High > 3.7 Volts @ 6 mA
Low < 0.7 Volts @12mA N/A
Interface Requirements
Installation and Specifications
Less than 9.0 Volts
(6.5 -32 Volts if Wide Input
model)
Less then 250mV(RMS) from
DC to 1MHz
PCB connector: Standard
DB-9(Female)
Low -3.0 to -30 Volts;
High +3.0 to +30
Low < -5.0 Volts;
High > +5.0 Volts @ 3mA
AirStream User’s Manual
11
Interface Requirements
Installation and Specifications
Stand-alone Transceiver Pin Out
Pin name I/O Function
1 DCD – Data Carrier Detect Output Session Status (True)
2 TxD – Transmit Data Output Data from transceiver to the attached
3 RxD – Receive Data Input Data into transceiver from the
4 DTR – Data Terminal Ready Input Data/Command Mode
5 Gnd -- Signal Ground
6 DSR – Data Set Ready Output Always Asserted (High)
7RTS – Request to Send Input HW Flow Control (internally pulled
8 CTS – Clear to Send Output HW Flow Control (default: asserted/
9 RI – Ring Indicate Output Status Change (default: de-asserted/
device
attached device
up)
High)
Low)
AirStream User’s Manual
12
SERIAL COMMUNICATIONS
In order to configure any transceiver, you must use a 9 pin RS232 cable.
This is necessary because pin 4 is used to transmit the configuration data
into EEPROM and other pins are used during the configuration process as
well. AirStream provides a 9 pin RS232 cable with all Stand-alone
Transceivers. A TTL to RS232 pin adapter is purchasable for Design-in
Transceivers.
You must use the 9 wire cable in the following cases:
• When using the Configuration Manager to initialize/setup a
transceiver.
• When the Host PC is using network utilities.
• When field upgrading the transceiver.
Once configuration is complete, you may opt to use a 3 or 5 wire cable
during field communication with Stand-alone transceivers. These cables
are not provided by AirStream. They can be purchased from a number of
sources.
Serial Communications
Installation and Specifications
To determine which cable you need in the field
1. Evaluate which connections you need
Wire Type What’s Connected
3 Wire Connection Data (TxD/RxD) and Ground. Does NOT support Hardware Flow
Control; will work with no Flow Control or Software Flow Control
5 Wire Connection Data and Ground; with Hardware Flow Control (RTS/CTS)
(receive, transmit, ground, hardware flow control). Required for
Hardware Flow Control, will also work with no Flow Control or
Software Flow Control.
9 Wire Connection All 9 pins are connected.
2. Determine whether you need a straight through or null cable.
The interface between the transceiver and the attached device is a Data
Communications Equipment (DCE) or Data Terminal Equipment (DTE)
connection requiring either a straight through or Null cable. The Null
cable (or Null adapter) simply crosses the required pins to allow similar
devices to communicate properly (e.g., DCE to DCE). In general:
• The AirStream Transceiver is always a DCE device.
•A PC is typically a DTE device.
• Remote devices (customer equipment) can be DCE or DTE depending
on the device.
• DCE to DTE communications require a straight through cable.
AirStream User’s Manual
13
Serial Communications
Installation and Specifications
Note: The following diagrams assume that the DCE transceiver is sending data
• DCE to DCE communications require a null cable or adapter.
to the DCE or DTE device.
3 Wire Straight Through Cable
DTE
Pin 2
Pin 3
TxD Data
RxD Data
Pin 2
Pin 3
Device
Gnd
TxD Data
RxD Data
Pin 5
Pin 2
Pin 3
3 Wire Null Cable
DCE
Pin 5
Pin 2
Pin 3
Device
Pin 5
Gnd
5 Wire Straight Through Cable (flow control in use)
DTE
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 5
TxD Data
RxD Data
Gnd
Pin 5
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 5
Device
Pin 7 Pin 7
RTS
DCE
Transceiver
DCE
Transceiver
DCE
Transceiver
AirStream User’s Manual
14
5 Wire Null Cable
DCE
Device
Pin 8 Pin 8
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 5
Pin 7 Pin 7
Pin 8
CTS
TxD Data
RxD Data
Gnd
RTS
CTS
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 5
Pin 8
DCE
Transceiver
Hardware Specifications
Installation and Specifications
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS
Design-in Stand-alone
Transceiver
Frequency 2.400 - 2.4835 GHz license-free ISM band in
U.S. (varies in other countries where
AirStream Transceivers have been certified)
Radio Type Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum same
Number of
Channels
Data Rate 600bps to 9.6 kbps full duplex, up to 19.2kbps
Transmit Power
Output
Indoor Range Up to 1,500 feet (457 m) in normal
Outdoor Range Up to 2 miles (3.2 km) with omni-directional
Protocol CSMA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access) same
Flow control Supports Hardware, Software or None same
Warranty 1 year parts and labor same
Error Detection &
Correction
Certification FCC Part 15 Certified, Industry Canada,
Electrical
Electrical Interface Serial TTL Voltage Levels RS-232C Voltage Levels
Physical Interface 1x12 right angle connector (header) Standard RS-232C DB-9 (female) connector
Input Power Voltage: +5.0 V, +/- 5%
417 independent, non-interfering frequencies same
asymmetrical
10mW to 500mW nominal, self-adjusting
(lower maximum power output where
required)
construction
antenna
Up to 12 miles (19.3 km) with optional
directional antenna (line of sight to the
horizon)
Up to 75 miles (120 km) theoretical range
(line of sight to the horizon from towers above
the curvature of the earth)
CRC 16 error detection; forward error
correction can correct errors in 1 out of every 4
bits transmitted
Japan, Europe, Brazil
Other International certifications pending
Ripple: Less than 10mV (RMS) from DC to
1MHz
same
same
same
same
same
same
same
Shipped with a 115VAC power adapter
providing:
Voltage: > 6.5 V and < 9.0 V
Ripple: Less than 250mV (RMS) from DC to
1MHz
AirStream User’s Manual
15
Software Requirements
Installation and Specifications
Design-in Stand-alone
Input Current Draw Idle: 200mA
Transmit: 550mA instantaneous current
Transmit/Receive (time averaged over
100msec): 360mA
Environmental
Temperature Range -4°F to +140°F, -20°C to +60°C same
Humidity 0% to 95% (non-condensing) same
Physical
Dimensions 0.75 inches height (19mm) x 2.35 inches
width (60mm) x 4.25 inches length (108mm)
Weight 2.3 ounces (65grams) 6 ounces (170 grams)
same
1.2 inches height (30mm) x 3.8 inches width
(97mm) x 5.2 inches length (132mm)
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
• Windows® 95/98 or above (depending on software used)
• Pentium processor >233 MHz or higher
• 1 available RS-232 serial port
• Minimum 32 MB DRAM
• Maximum 20 MB hard disk space for Configuration Manager Plus
necessary Network Software Utilities
• 1 parallel port (for hardware key used in certain networks only for
Developer Kits)
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
Configuration Manager
This program is used to configure all transceivers.
To install the Configuration Manager
1. Make sure all Windows applications are closed.
2. Insert the Installation CD-ROM or diskette 1 into the appropriate drive.
3. Open the contents of the drive in your usual manner.
You can use Windows Explorer or My Computer on the desktop, for
example.
4. Double-click Setup.exe.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.
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16
Installation and Specifications
Network Software Utilities
Intercept and Library Utilities
This installation process is required if you are configuring transceivers in
networks using ComPort or TCP/IP Intercept, ActiveX, or DOS Utilities.
To install Network Software Utilities
1. Insert the Installation CD-ROM or diskette 1 into the appropriate drive.
2. Open the contents of the drive in your usual manner.
You can use Windows Explorer or My Computer on the desktop, for
example.
3. Double-click Setup.exe.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions
If installing ActiveX, make sure to install the sample files as these will
provide the examples you need to create your own applications.
Antennas
ANTENNAS
Antennas must be connected to each transceiver for proper operation.
Without an antenna, two units will not communicate. The higher the gain
of the antenna, the longer the range of the transceiver signal.
AirStream Transceivers are designed to be used only with certain antenna
products. AirStream offers the omni-directional antennas listed below as
compliant with FCC Certification for the transceiver. The AirStream
Transceiver uses a unique mechanical connection (reverse thread SMA
connector) for all external mount antennas to ensure that only compliant
antennas are used with the transceiver . AirStream does not endorse the use
of omni-directional antennas other than those listed below.
AirStream Part Number Description
Call 1dBi Omni-Directional Antenna (2”)
Call 2dBi Omni-Directional Antenna (6”)
52375 3dBi Omni-Directional Antenna (5”)
Call 5dBi Omni-Directional Antenna (9”)
Other higher gain directional antennas may be purchased through an
approved Rice Lake Weighing Systems supplier. Contact Rice Lake
Weighing Systems for additional information.
AirStream User’s Manual
17
Antennas
Installation and Specifications
AirStream User’s Manual
18
Chapter 3: Point to Point and Network T opologies
AirStream Transceivers support Point to Point Pairs
and several Network topologies. Each AirStream
Transceiver can be configured via its Configuration
Manager to work in any of these topologies. The
transceiver’s Configuration Manager controls how the
transceiver transmits and receives data as connected to
the device. The operation of the transceiver in the
network topology is determined by its Network
Software Utility.
POINT TO POINT PAIR
In a Point to Point topology, AirStream Transceivers
are used to connect two devices (e.g., a bar code reader
and a printer), or a PC with a single remote device. The
1
A
1
Point to Point topology can be considered a virtual
B
wire replacement (e.g., data in on one side equals data
out on the other side). This is useful for machine to
machine communications. All of the transceiver
features listed in Transceiver Features on page 6 apply
in Point to Point topologies.
In this Chapter
•Point to Point
Pairs
• Networks
• Network Utilities
NETWORKS
Wireless data connectivity applications require a wide
range of networking options. The AirStream Network
topologies consist of more than two transceivers and
may have a PC to host a network of devices. The host
and network devices are each physically attached to a
AirStream Transceiv er.
The following Network topologies may require
Network Software Utilities. The required utilities are
listed within each topology description and explained
in detail in “Network Software Utilities” on page 23.
Depending on the topology and network utility
combination you select, some of the Transceiver
Features on page 6 may not apply . This is e xplained for
each topology.
AirStream User’s Manual
19
Networks
A
Point to Point and Network Topologies
Multi-Point Network
The Multi-Point Network enables data to be transmitted between as many
1
2
3
Note: Depending on the network utility used, GPIO may be available. If you
as 238 remote devices and a PC host. The transceiver connected to the
B
Host PC transmits and receives data from any other transceiver one at a
time. Sessions may be initiated by any device on the network. De vices can
C
be dumb (accept data directly without recognition) or intelligent
(recognize data transmission on a network and grab what applies). In a
Multi-Point Network there is no direct remote to remote communication,
D
everything must go through the host.
As opposed to a Point to Point topology, where you have a machine to
machine interface, Multi-Point networks are communicating at the
application level. Depending on the utility chosen, these networks can
communicate with one or more applications at a time. Multi-Point
Networks can be created with the following Network Software Utilities.
• ComPort Intercept
• TCP/IP Intercept
• ActiveX Library
• DOS Library
assign GPIO mode to any remote on the network, the host must also be
assigned GPIO mode. The Host has a GPIO register so it can detect which
remotes are using GPIO.
Repeater Network
AirStream Transceivers in a Repeater Network function similarly to a
Multi-Point Network. They expand the range of the Multi-Point Network
by relaying data packets between otherwise out-of-range remote devices
and a Host PC. The effecti ve transmission rate for data packets for de vices
beyond direct connection with the host is reduced by one third. Data can
be transmitted between as many as 238 remote devices and a Host PC.
The transceiver connected to the Host PC transmits and receives data
from any transceiver one at a time. Sessions may be initiated by any
device on the network. Devices can be dumb (accept data directly without
recognition) or intelligent (recognize data transmission on a network and
grab what applies).
The most significant advantage of a Repeater Network is the ability to
extend range. This is advantageous when you have some remote devices
that are not within direct range of the host. This network extends range in
irStream User’s Manual
20
Networks
Point to Point and Network Topologies
layers. These layers may overlap but you cannot go beyond 4 layers of
range. Data travels through a single path to the receiving transceiver. This
network works well in environments where you do not need to
communicate large amounts of data but need to communicate over long
range. In the diagram below there are four layers. Data is sent from the
host through a path consisting of D, G, J, and M. This is the single path
used to get the data from the host to M as M is out-of-range of the host.
1
B
2
C
3
D
4
E
5
F
6
G
7
H
8
I
9
J
10
11
12
K
L
M
Repeater Networks can be created with the following Network Software
Utilities:
• ComPort Intercept
• TCP/IP Intercept
• ActiveX Library
• DOS Library
Note: GPIO, power management modes, and asymmetrical data flow rates are
not applicable to Repeater Networks. Even though you can use GPIO
with ComPort Intercept, you cannot implement this function on a
Repeater Network.
AirStream User’s Manual
21
Networks
A
Point to Point and Network Topologies
Broadcast Network
In a Broadcast Network, data is sent out by one transceiver (sending
R
A
R
transceiver) and received by an unlimited number of remote devices
B
simultaneously. These devices must be intelligent enough to recognize
relevant messages and reco ver lost or corrupted data. Broadcast Networks
C
operate solely as configured by the Configuration Manager.
R
Remote to Host (4 wire)
R
A
Remote to All (2 wire)
R
R
The AirStream Broadcast Network has two modes of operation; Remote
D
To All and Remote To Host. In both modes all transmissions sent by the
sending transceiver can be received by every remote unit in its associated
network. The difference is in the way that transmissions by remote units
are handled:
B
• In Remote To Host, transmissions by remote units can only be
received by the host.
• In Remote To All, transmissions by remote units can be received by
C
D
every other unit in the network that is within range.
Unlike other AirStream Network topologies, in Broadcast there is no
session established between the units engaged in communication. This
means that transmitted data is not acknowledged by the receiving side. If,
for example, there is a momentary signal blockage at the receiving unit
location, the affected receiving unit will miss any data transmitted during
the signal blockage. Although signal impairments could cause data “dropouts” any data received over the wireless link is still checked and
corrected (if possible) by the AirStream error detection/correction
process. This ensures that data is error free.
Broadcast mode is especially useful to applications where you must
transfer the same information to all units at once or where a polling
protocol is employed to collect data from remote units. In polling
applications, the sending transceiver sends a query message to each
remote unit in turn, asking for any data that the remote unit has available.
The remote unit then has a chance to send its data to the polling
transceiver. In a typical polling arrangement, each remote must wait until
it is queried by the sending transceiver before transmitting. In this way
collisions between transmissions of more than one remote unit are
avoided. If, when polling a number of remotes, a reply is not received
within a predetermined time interval the sending transceiver can
retransmit its query or simply move on to the next query on its list.
Broadcast mode is intended primarily to be a RS485 network wire
replacement. It is especially useful in adding new equipment to older
(legacy) systems where there is a 2 wire or 4 wire RS485 connection. The
irStream User’s Manual
22
4 wire connection is replaced with the Remote to Host mode and the 2
Wire connection is replaced with Remote to all mode. The AirStream
RS232 to RS485 converter is needed to configure AirStream Transceivers
for RS485 devices.
Note: The Broadcast Network does not support GPIO, data thresholding, or
power management and asymmetrical data rates are lower. Flow control
was not intended for use in this topology.
Note: The sending transceiver’s link light will only turn on if a remote is
sending data. The remote transceiver’s link light will always be lit when
synchronized on the network. The sending transceiver is always
transmitting; however, other AirStream Networks will work when
collocated with a Broadcast Network as long as their hop table
assignment is different.
NETWORK SOFTWARE UTILITIES
Each network topology is supported by a combination of a Configuration
Manager which allows you to configure each individual transceiver for
your network topology and a variety of available Network Software
Utilities which allow you to arrange data transmission in your network.
Although summarized here, usage of each of these utilities is described in
detail throughout this manual.
Network Software Utilities
Point to Point and Network Topologies
Note that the network software utilities are optional; contact Rice Lake
Weighing Systems for details.
ComPort Intercept
ComPort Intercept is a software program which provides all the
2
1
16
functionality you need to assign virtual ports (enabling transparent
B
communication) in your Windows System Registry for a small network
configuration of up to 16 devices (including the host PC). See Setting up a
Network with ComPort on page 45 for information on using this software.
You can use this utility for the following network topologies:
X
• Multi-Point
• Repeater
AirStream User’s Manual
23
Network Software Utilities
A
Point to Point and Network Topologies
TCP/IP Intercept
TCP/IP Intercept is a software program which provides all the
2
functionality you need to route wireless data through a Host PC to and
B
from as many as 238 devices on a TCP/IP based netw ork. See Setting up a
1
Network with TCP/IP on page 55 for information on using this software.
You can use this utility for the following network topologies:
238
• Multi-Point
X
• Repeater
ActiveX Library
The Acti veX Library pro vides the standard Acti veX system calls you need
to create applications which can link as many as 238 devices. See Acti veX
Network Applications on page 67 for information on using this software.
You can use this utility for the following network topologies:
• Multi-Point
• Repeater
DOS Library
The DOS Library provides the standard DOS system calls you need to
create applications which can link as many as 238 devices. This feature is
currently being tested and will not be documented further in this version
of the manual. You can use this utility for the following network
topologies:
• Multi-Point
• Repeater
irStream User’s Manual
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