Product data

Appendix I - TSMPPT Networking
56 Appendix I - TSMPPT Networking
I. Introduction
Certain models of the TriStar MPPT family of charge controllers have Ethernet ports and web
features. These models can be connected to your home network so that operating information
can be displayed on any computer on the network.
This Appendix covers the steps required to connect your ethernet-enabled TriStar MPPT con-
trollertoyourhomenetwork.Instructionsarealsoincludedtocongureyournetworkrouterto
allow remote access to your TriStar MPPT via the internet. For users that only need to access the
TriStar MPPT from within their home network, the Remote Access steps are not required. Only
set up remote access if you would like to view system performance on a computer or other net-
work device outside of your home network via the internet.
II. Connect to Local Area Network (LAN)
The following section will guide you through the process of connecting your TriStar MPPT con-
troller to your home/business local network.
Getting Started
The TriStar MPPT was designed for easy setup on your home or business network through
DHCP.DHCPisaservicethatautomaticallyassignsanetworkcongurationtoacomputerorde-
vice that appears on your network. The vast majority of residential and business network routers
support DHCP and the service is usually turned on by default. Since DHCP is enabled by default
in the TriStar MPPT, the network settings will be automatically assigned when connected.
How can I tell if DHCP is enabled on my network?
If you have residential or business DSL, Cable, Fiber, or satellite internet service and the net-
work router was provided by the internet provider, chances are really good that DHCP is already
enabled. Just to be sure, you can go to any computer on your network and check its network set-
tings.
Obtain info using a Windows PC
Click the start menu button
Choose the Run... menu item
Type cmd intheOpentexteldandclickOK
At the prompt type ipcong /all and hit enter. (note: there is a space between the “g” and “/”)
Network information similar to the screenshot below will be displayed