User's Manual

Figure 55: eCAP Connection tab
Because the eCAP is designed to handle asynchronous serial communications with a number
of alarm systems, the eCAP requires configuration settings to start processing. These values
are returned through the <cfgrpy> reply that is sent on return of the <cfgrqs> request. Some
parameters refer to asynchronous communication settings (for example, port number, baud
rate, data bits, parity bits, stop bits, and so on); others refer to general information settings (for
example, logging parameters); the rest are parameters that actually determine the alarm
system (for example, manufacturer, model, bidirectional, and so on).
Note:
The values shown in Figure 55: eCAP Connection tab on page 99 are received from the
DECT Messenger database: from the eKERNEL_INPGM table, eCAP_generic table, and
the eKERNEL_SITE table.
At startup, the eCAP.exe appears the specified COM port with the specified settings. The COM
port specified must be available, be set to use a valid baud rate, and so on. A physical
connection must exist between the specified COM port and the external alarm system through
a properly wired serial cable. In many cases, alarm systems support a limited number of control
signals (for example, ground and send), so consult the alarm system vendor on cable
specifications. In most cases, you can use a standard null-modem cable. If no more COM ports
are available, extra hardware (such as DigiBoard PC/4e or DigiBoard PC/8e) is needed to
provide extra serial ports. Check compatibility issues (supported by operating system, driver
available, and so on) and hardware requirements (memory, available slots, IRQ conflicts, and
so on) before ordering or configuring a system.
In many cases the distance between the DECT Messenger and the external-alarm system is
relatively small, so no extra hardware is needed. In some conditions hardware is needed, such
as, when RS-232-C limitations apply (for example, at 9600 baud maximum limit of 9 metres).
In some cases galvanic isolation is requested, or base-band modems, SOPHO LAM, CISCO
equipment, and so on are needed to bridge the distance between the DECT Messenger and
the alarm system.
eCAP.exe
DECT Messenger Installation and Commissioning — Book 1 March 2012 99