User Guide
Trademark Notices Comtrol, NS‐Link, and DeviceMaster are trademarks of Comtrol Corporation. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. HyperTerminal is a registered trademark of Hilgraeve, Inc. Portions of SocketServer are copyrighted by GoAhead Software, Inc. Copyright © 2001. GoAhead Software, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Table of Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................................7 DeviceMaster LT Port Usage ...................................................................................................................... 7 Installation Overview ................................................................................................................................... 7 NS-Link COM Port Driver Installation Overview ....
Table of Contents DeviceMaster LT Security..................................................................................................45 Understanding Security Methods and Terminology........................................................................... 45 TCP and UDP Socket Ports Used by the DeviceMaster LT ............................................................... 50 DeviceMaster LT Security Features .........................................................................................
Table of Contents Managing Bootloader ................................................................................................................................. 85 Checking the Bootloader Version............................................................................................................. 85 Uploading Bootloader ............................................................................................................................... 85 Checking the NS-Link Version ...............
Table of Contents DeviceMaster LT LEDs............................................................................................................................. 129 TX/RX LEDs............................................................................................................................................ 129 Network and Device LEDs .....................................................................................................................
Introduction This section discusses the following topics: • • • DeviceMaster LT Port Usage (below) Installation Overview on Page 7 - NS-Link COM Port Driver Installation Overview on Page 8 - NS-Link tty Port Installation Overview on Page 8 - TCP/IP Socket Port Installation Overview on Page 9 Locating Software and Documentation on Page 9 DeviceMaster LT Port Usage DeviceMaster LT serial ports can be configured for many environments, which include the following: • COM port (or secure COM ports) whe
NS-Link COM Port Driver Installation Overview feature. Notice will posted with SocketServer or the NS-Link device driver. 5.
TCP/IP Socket Port Installation Overview TCP/IP Socket Port Installation Overview Use the following steps, which are discussed in detail in the subsequent sections, to configure DeviceMaster LT socket ports. 1. After connecting the DeviceMaster LT, programming the IP address, and uploading the latest version of SocketServer, you are ready to configure socket port or serial tunneling. 2.
Locating Software and Documentation If you are not sure what files are required for your installation, each Installation Overview subsection also provides links to the required files in this Guide. Configuration Application Software PortVision DX Description/Documentation File Install on a Windows host to configure the IP address and upload SocketServer on the DeviceMaster LT. This is the firmware that comes preinstalled on your DeviceMaster LT platform.
Hardware Installation Use the following procedure to install the DeviceMaster LT 16-port with an external power supply. 1. Record the MAC address and serial number of the DeviceMaster LT unit on the customer service label provided. You may need the MAC address during driver configuration. The serial number and MAC address (starts with 00 C0 4E) are located on a label on the DeviceMaster LT.
Hardware Installation 12 - Hardware Installation DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Initial Configuration There are several ways to configure network information. Comtrol Technical Support recommends connecting the DeviceMaster LT to a PC or laptop running Windows and installing PortVision DX for initial configuration. Optionally, you can use RedBoot to configure the network address and upload SocketServer, see RedBoot Procedures on Page 99. This section shows how to use PortVision DX for initial DeviceMaster LT configuration.
PortVision DX Requirements PortVision DX Requirements Use PortVision DX to identify, configure, update, and manage the DeviceMaster LT on the following Windows operating systems: • Windows 8.
Installing PortVision DX Installing PortVision DX During initial configuration, PortVision DX automatically detects and identifies DeviceMaster LT units, if they are in the same network segment. Use the Software and Documentation CD that came with the DeviceMaster LT to check for the latest version of PortVision DX or use the link below to download the latest version. 1.
Installing PortVision DX 5. Click Next or optionally, browse to a different location and then click Next. 6. Click Next to configure the shortcuts. 7. Click Install. 16 - Initial Configuration DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Installing PortVision DX 8. Depending on the operating system, you may need to click Yes to the Do you want to allow the following program to install software on this computer? query. 9. Click Launch PortVision DX and Finish in the last installation screen. 10. Depending on the operating system, you may need to click Yes to the Do you want to allow the following program to make changes to this computer? query. 11. Select the Comtrol Ethernet attached products that you want to locate and then click Scan.
Configuring the Network Settings Configuring the Network Settings Use the following procedure to change the default network settings on the DeviceMaster LT for your network. Default Network Settings IP address: 192.168.250.250 Subnet mask: 255.255.0.0 Gateway address: 192.168.250.1 Note: Technical Support advises configuring one new DeviceMaster LT at a time to avoid device driver configuration problems.
Configuring the Network Settings 6. Highlight the DeviceMaster LT for which you want to program network information and open the Properties screen using one of these methods. • Double-click the DeviceMaster LT in the Device Tree or Device List pane. • Highlight the DeviceMaster LT in the Device Tree or Device List pane and click the Properties button.
Configuring the Network Settings 7. Optionally, rename the DeviceMaster LT in the Device Name field. Note: The MAC address and Device Status fields are automatically populated and you cannot change those values. 8. If necessary, you can change the Detection Type. • REMOTE means that the DeviceMaster LT is not connected to this segment of the network and it uses IP communications, not MAC communications. • LOCAL means that the DeviceMaster LT is on this local network segment and uses MAC communications.
Configuring the Network Settings 11. Click Apply Changes to update the network information on the DeviceMaster LT. Note: If you are deploying multiple DeviceMaster LTs that share common values, you can save the configuration file and load that configuration onto other DeviceMaster LTs. See Using SocketServer Configuration Files on Page 77 for more information. 12. Click Close to exit the Properties window. 13. Go to Checking the SocketServer Version on Page 22 to check the SocketServer version.
Checking the SocketServer Version Checking the SocketServer Version SocketServer refers to the web page that is integrated in the firmware that comes pre-installed on your DeviceMaster LT platform, which provides an interface to TCP/IP socket mode configuration and services. If you install an NS-Link device driver, an NS-Link version of SocketServer loads on the DeviceMaster LT.
Checking the SocketServer Version 3. Check the Comtrol ftp site to see if a later version is available by accessing the ftp subdirectory that contains the latest version of SocketServer: ftp:// ftp.comtrol.com/dev_mstr/LT/software/socketserver. 4. If the version on the web site is later than the version on the DeviceMaster LT, download the file, and then go to Uploading SocketServer with PortVision DX on Page 24.
Uploading SocketServer with PortVision DX Uploading SocketServer with PortVision DX Use this section to upload a newer version of SocketServer on the DeviceMaster LT using PortVision DX. Technical Support recommends updating SocketServer before any further configuration to avoid configuration problems. You can use this procedure if your DeviceMaster LT is connected to the host PC, laptop, or if the DeviceMaster LT resides on the local network segment.
Uploading SocketServer with PortVision DX 4. Click Yes to the Upload Firmware message that warns you that this is a sensitive process. It may take a few moments for the firmware to upload onto the DeviceMaster LT. The DeviceMaster LT reboots itself during the upload process. 5. Click Ok to the advisory message about waiting to use the device until the status reads ON-LINE.
Customizing PortVision DX Customizing PortVision DX You can customize how PortVision DX displays the devices. You can even create sessions tailored for specific audiences. You can also add shortcuts to other applications using Tools > Applications > Customize feature. The following illustrates how you can customize your view. See the PortVision DX Help system for detailed information about modifying the view. For example, the above screen shot illustrates devices layered in folders.
Accessing DeviceMaster LT Documentation from PortVision DX Accessing DeviceMaster LT Documentation from PortVision DX You can use this procedure in PortVision DX to download and open the previously downloaded documents for the DeviceMaster LT. You can also check to see if you have the latest version of the documentation using PortVision DX. How to Download Documentation Use this procedure to initially download a document or documents. 1.
How to Open Previously Downloaded Documents How to Open Previously Downloaded Documents Use the following procedure to access previously downloaded documents in PortVision DX. Note: Optionally, you can browse to the Program Files (x86) > Comtrol > PortVision DX > Docs subdirectory and open the document. 1. If necessary, open PortVision DX > Start/Programs > Comtrol > PortVision DX > PortVision DX or use the desktop shortcut. 2. Click Help > Documentation. 3.
Device Driver (NS-Link) Installation This section discusses the following topics: • Linux Installations on Page 30 • Windows Installations on Page 31 Overview The following subsections discuss procedures that need to be done before installing and configuring the NS-Link device driver.
Linux Installations Linux Installations You can locate the latest device driver for Linux using one of these methods: • Download the latest device driver: ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/dev_mstr/LT/ drivers/linux. • Software and Documentation CD: You can use the CD to check the driver version on the CD against the latest released version. Open the /html/ default.htm file to use the menu system, which provides you with links to download all software and documents.
Windows Installations Windows Installations This subsection provides an installation overview for the NS-Link device driver for Windows. For detailed installation and configuration information, see the DeviceMaster LT Device Driver (NS-Link) User Guide for Windows, which is available on the Software and Documentation CD or you can download the latest.
NS-Link for Windows Installation 3. Click Next to install in the default location. 4. Click Install 5. Leave the Launch DeviceMaster Driver Installation box checked. If you do not check this box, you can use the shortcut under the Start button at: Programs > Comtrol > DeviceMaster > DeviceMaster Driver Installation Wizard. 6. Click Finish to complete the installation of the wizard. 32 - Device Driver (NS-Link) Installation DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
NS-Link for Windows Installation 7. Click Next to start the driver installation. 8. Click Install and Next. 9. Select the DeviceMaster LT from the list. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
NS-Link for Windows Installation 10. Enter the quantity of this DeviceMaster LT model that you want to install and click Ok. 11. Repeat Steps 9 and 10 for each DeviceMaster LT that you are installing and click Next. 12. Click Proceed. You may see the popup at the right for each port. 13. Return to the Installation Wizard and click Close. 14. Go to the next subsection for NS-Link driver configuration procedures. 34 - Device Driver (NS-Link) Installation DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows This subsection provides a configuration overview for the NS-Link driver. For detailed information or if the DeviceMaster LT is on a different physical segment, refer to the help system or the DeviceMaster LT Device Driver (NS-Link) User Guide, which is available on the Software and Documentation CD or you can download the latest.
Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows 4. Click Apply to program the driver with the MAC address of the DeviceMaster LT or Ok to save the change and close the Comtrol Drivers Management Console. If you do not Apply the changes before leaving this screen, you will be prompted to Apply, Ignore, or Cancel the changes. 5.
Configuring the NS-Link Driver for Windows Comtrol proprietary MAC mode Ethernet driver protocol, both UDP and MAC mode serial data transport features are disabled. In addition to encrypting the data streams, it is possible to configure the DeviceMaster LT so that only authorized client applications can connect using SSL/TLS. For this option to function, you must also Enable Secure Data Mode in the NSLink web page.
Configuring COM Port Properties for Windows Configuring COM Port Properties for Windows The following is a COM port properties configuration overview. Use the DeviceMaster Device Driver (NS-Link) User Guide (also available on the CD) or the NS-Link Help system for detailed configuration information. 1. Highlight the first port you want to configure. 2. Complete the screen appropriately for the serial device that you plan on connecting to the port and click Ok. a.
Enabling Secure Data Mode 6. Click Apply to save these changes. Note: If you selected RS-422 mode, make sure that there is not a device attached to the port and click Ok. 7. Highlight the next port that you want to configure and perform Steps 1 through 6. 8. Refer to Connecting Serial Devices on Page 43 to attach your serial device. 9. Optionally, you may need to configure one or more ports for socket mode (Socket Port Configuration on Page 41).
Enabling Secure Data Mode 40 - Device Driver (NS-Link) Installation DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Socket Port Configuration This section provides an overview of SocketServer and provides basic operating procedures. SocketServer and DeviceMaster LT security are discussed in detail in DeviceMaster LT Security on Page 45. Note: Technical Supports recommends that you update to the latest version of SocketServer before installing an NS-Link device driver or configuring socket ports.
SocketServer Architecture SocketServer Architecture TCP/IP socket mode operation is used to connect serial devices with an application that supports TCP/IP socket communications addressing. DeviceMaster PC or Mainframe IP socket application Ethernet Hub LAN/WAN Ethernet Hub Serial Device TCP/IP Socket Mode Serial tunneling mode is used to establish a socket connection between two DeviceMaster LTs through an Ethernet network.
Accessing Socket Configuration Accessing Socket Configuration There are several ways to access the socket configuration pages (either version, SocketServer or NS-Link). Use the method that fits your environment best. Web Browser • Web Browser • PortVision DX To access the socket configuration page for the DeviceMaster LT using a web browser, follow this procedure. 1. Start your web browser. 2. Enter the IP address of the DeviceMaster LT in the URL field.
SocketServer Versions SocketServer Versions The SocketServer Overview discusses the that the default SocketServer web page is the same as the NS-Link web page. If the NS-Link driver is not running (not installed or disabled), SocketServer loads when you open a web browser session. Your SocketServer or NS-Link version may be different than these examples.
DeviceMaster LT Security This subsection provides a basic understanding of the DeviceMaster LT security options, and the repercussions of setting these options. See Removing DeviceMaster LT Security Features on Page 131 if you need to reset DeviceMaster LT security options. See Returning the DeviceMaster LT to Factory Defaults on Page 133 if you want to return the DeviceMaster LT settings to their default values.
Understanding Security Methods and Terminology Term or Issue Digital Certificate Explanation A digital certificate is an electronic credit card that establishes your credentials when doing business or other transactions on the Web. It is issued by a certification authority (CA).
Understanding Security Methods and Terminology Term or Issue Explanation This is an algorithm for public-key cryptography. It is the first algorithm known to be suitable for signing as well as encryption. RSA is widely used in electronic commerce protocols, and is believed to be sufficiently secure given sufficiently long keys and the use of up-to-date implementations.
Understanding Security Methods and Terminology Term or Issue TLS (Transport Layer Security) Explanation Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a protocol that ensures privacy between communicating applications and their users on the Internet. When a server and client communicate, TLS ensures that no third party may eavesdrop or tamper with any message. TLS is the successor to the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). TLS and SSL are not interoperable.
Understanding Security Methods and Terminology Term or Issue Explanation A number of products are offered that enable a company or group of companies to implement a PKI. The acceleration of e-commerce and business-to-business commerce over the Internet has increased the demand for PKI solutions. Related ideas are the virtual private network (VPN) and the IP Security (IPsec) standard. Among PKI leaders are: • RSA, which has developed the main algorithms used by PKI vendors.
TCP and UDP Socket Ports Used by the DeviceMaster LT TCP and UDP Socket Ports Used by the DeviceMaster LT Following list is all of the logical TCP and UDP socket ports implemented in DeviceMaster LTs. Socket Port Number 22 SSH 23 Telnet 80 HTTP 443 SSL or HTTPS Description TCP Ports 22 (ssh) and 23 (telnet) are used for administrative and diagnostic purposes and aren't required for normal use and are enabled by default and Port 23 may be disabled.
DeviceMaster LT Security Features DeviceMaster LT Security Features The following subsections provide information about DeviceMaster LT security features. Security Modes The DeviceMaster LT supports two security modes. Security Mode Description SSL encryption for serial port data streams for both NS-Link and SocketServer. Secure Data mode: • Requires SSL encryption of TCP connections to SocketServer (Ports 8000, 8001, 8002, and so forth). • Disables UDP access to SocketServer.
Secure Data Mode and Secure Config Mode Comparison Secure Data Mode and Secure Config Mode Comparison This table provides information that compares Secure Data and Secure Config modes.
SSH Server Weakest Strongest Email yes yes yes disabled disabled disabled SNMP yes yes yes disabled disabled disabled RFC1006 yes yes yes disabled disabled disabled † Enable Monitoring Secure Data via Telnet must be enabled. SSH does not support port monitoring. You can set the securemon enable option. admin commands are disabled except for read-only ID command required by NS-Link to identify the device.
Client Authentication • The private key used to sign the certificate must also be uploaded to the DeviceMaster LT. Note: Possession of that private key will allow eavesdroppers to decrypt all traffic to and from the DeviceMaster LT. Client Authentication Certificates and Keys • The corresponding public key can be used to verify the ID certificate but not to decrypt traffic. • All DeviceMaster LT are shipped from the factory with identical self-signed ID certificates and private keys.
Certificates and Keys • Configuring Certificates and keys are configured by four uploaded files on the bottom Key and Certificate Management portion of the Edit Security Configuration web page: - RSA Key Pair used by SSL and SSH servers This is a private/public key pair that is used for two purposes: • It is used by some cipher suites to encrypt the SSL/TLS handshaking messages.
SSL Performance SSL Performance The DeviceMaster LT has these SSL performance characteristics: • Encryption/decryption is a CPU-intensive process, and using encrypted data streams will limit the number of ports that can be maintained at a given serial throughput. For example, the table below shows the number of ports that can be maintained by SocketServer at 100% throughput for various cipher suites and baud rates.
DeviceMaster LT Supported Cipher Suites - Message Authentication Code • hash function (checksum) used to verify that each message frame has not be corrupted or changed while in transit. • typical options include MD5, SHA, MD2, MD4 • DeviceMaster LT supports MD5, SHA • DeviceMaster LT Supported Cipher Suites SSL Resources In the design of the SSL/TLS protocols the choices of four of the above are not independent of each other: only certain combinations are defined by the standards.
Configure/Enable Security Features Overview Configure/Enable Security Features Overview You can enable DeviceMaster LT security features the web page (SocketServer or the NS-Link version). Key and Certificate Management must be done using the Security tab in the DeviceMaster LT web pages. If you want secure COM ports, you must also Enable SSL Mode and enter any applicable server or client certificates in the NS-Link device driver for Windows. See Device Driver (NS-Link) Installation on Page 29.
Configure/Enable Security Features Overview Security Option Description If Secure Config Mode is enabled, unencrypted access to administrative and diagnostic functions is disabled. Secure Config Mode changes DeviceMaster LT behavior as follows: Enable Secure Config Mode • Telnet access to administrative and diagnostic functions is disabled. SSH access is still allowed. • Unencrypted access to the web server via Port 80 (http:// URLs) is disabled.
Example 1 Security Option Description • (Continued from the previous page) Enable Monitoring Secure Data via Telnet securemon [enable|disable] By default, monitoring of TX/RX data when in Secure Data Mode is not allowed through telnet (an insecure protocol). This command allows you to override that default when securemon is enabled it will allow monitoring of secure data via an insecure protocol like telnet.
Example 3 Example 3 The -c option enables the use of color instead of < and > to indicate the data flow direction. Tx is green and Rx is red. dm> monitor -c 1 Serial monitoring started for port 1 -- press [Enter] to stop.
Key and Certificate Management Key and Certificate Management Options Description This is a private/public key pair that is used for two purposes: It is used by some cipher suites to encrypt the SSL/ TLS handshaking messages. Possession of the private portion of this key pair allows an eavesdropper to both decrypt traffic on SSL/TLS connections that use RSA encryption during handshaking.
Using a Web Browser to Set Security Features Using a Web Browser to Set Security Features The follow procedures are discussed below: Changing Security Configuration • Changing Security Configuration • Changing Keys and Certificates on Page 64 Use the following steps to change security settings in the DeviceMaster LT. 1. Enter the IP address of the DeviceMaster LT in the Address field of your web browser and press the Enter key.
Changing Keys and Certificates 5. Make the appropriate selection for your situation: Changing Keys and Certificates • Click Continue, if you addition configuration and then make sure that you reboot the DeviceMaster LT later so that the changes take affect. • Click Reboot so that changes take affect as soon as the DeviceMaster LT returns online. Use the following steps to update security keys and certificates in the DeviceMaster LT. 1.
Connecting Serial Devices This section discusses connecting your serial devices to the DeviceMaster LT. It also provides you with information to build serial cables and loopback connectors to test the serial ports. Use the appropriate subsection to connect asynchronous serial devices to the DeviceMaster LT ports.
RJ45 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) RJ45 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 null-modem cable. A nullmodem cable is required for connecting DTE devices. Signal TxD RxD RTS CTS DSR DCD DTR GND RJ45 Pins 5 4 1 8 2 3 7 6 DB9 DB25 RJ45 Pins Pins Pins 2 3 4 3 2 5 8 5 8 7 4 1 4 20 7 1 8 3 6 6 2 5 7 6 Signal RxD TxD CTS RTS DTR DCD DSR GND Note: You may want to purchase or build a straight-through cable and purchase a null-modem adapter.
RJ45 Loopback Plugs RJ45 Loopback Plugs Loopback connectors are RJ45 serial port plugs with pins wired together that are used in conjunction with application software (Test Terminal for Windows, which is available in PortVision DX or Minicom for Linux) to test serial ports. The DeviceMaster LT is shipped with a single loopback plug (RS232/422). • Pins 4 to 5 • Pins 1 to 8 • Pins 2 to 3 to 7 RJ45 RS-485 Test Cable You can use a straight-through cable as illustrated previously, or build your own cable.
Connecting RJ45 Devices 3. You can refer to DeviceMaster LT LEDs on Page 129 for information about the remaining LEDs. Note: The RX/TX LEDs cycle during a reboot cycle. 68 - Connecting Serial Devices DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Managing the DeviceMaster LT This section discusses the following DeviceMaster LT maintenance procedures: • Rebooting the DeviceMaster LT • Updating Firmware Across WANs (Windows) on Page 70 • Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMaster LTs on Page 74 • Configuring Multiple DeviceMaster LTs Network Addresses on Page 75 Note: You can configure the network addresses for multiple DeviceMaster LTs, configure common settings for the DeviceMaster LTs, and save the settings to a configuration file that
Updating Firmware Across WANs (Windows) Updating Firmware Across WANs (Windows) You can use this procedure to update SocketServer with PortVision DX using a TFTP server. If you have a TFTP server installed, skip to Step 2. This procedure is also recommended in cases where SocketServer fails to load using convention methods. 1. If you do not have a TFTP server, you can download the appropriate one for your Windows operating system from the Comtrol ftp site. ftp://ftp.comtrol.
Updating Firmware Across WANs (Windows) 2. Make sure that you have downloaded the latest SocketServer version from: ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/dev_mstr/LT/software/socketserver. You may want to place SocketServer in the same directory as the Tftpd server. 3. Optionally, rename the SocketServer-x.xx.bin file (where x.xx is the version number) to 1.bin to make the following steps easier. 4. If necessary, open PortVision DX: Start >Program > Comtrol > PortVision DX > PortVision DX or the desktop shortcut. 5.
Updating Firmware Across WANs (Windows) 6. In PortVision DX, right-click the DeviceMaster LT in the Device List pane for which you want to upload the latest SocketServer. and click Telnet/SSH Session. 7. Leave the popup set to Telnet and Selected Port 23, and click Ok. 8. Make sure that the Bootloader version number displays with the RedBoot> prompt. If the RedBoot> prompt does not appear, reboot the DeviceMaster LT and try again. You must be at the RedBoot> prompt for the following steps to work.
Updating Firmware Across WANs (Windows) 9. At the RedBoot> prompt, enter dis and press Enter. Note: Make sure that loading is disabled before performing the next step. 10. Enter the following command: load -r -b 0x28000000 -h Note: The tftp-Server_IP_Addr can be viewed in the application (Page 70) and if you renamed the file as suggested, the file name is 1.bin. 11. At the RedBoot> prompt, type go after the raw file string appears. 12.
Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMaster LTs Uploading SocketServer to Multiple DeviceMaster LTs You can use this procedure if your DeviceMaster LT is connected to the host PC, laptop, or if the DeviceMaster LT resides on the local network segment. 1. If you have not done so, install PortVision DX (Installing PortVision DX on Page 15) and Scan the network. 2.
Configuring Multiple DeviceMaster LTs Network Addresses Configuring Multiple DeviceMaster LTs Network Addresses You can configure the network addresses for multiple DeviceMaster LTs using the Assign IP to Multiple Devices option. In addition, you can also configure common settings for the DeviceMaster LT SocketServer or NS-Link web page and save the settings to a configuration file that you can load to all or selected DeviceMaster LTs.
Local Using the IP Address or MAC Address 7. Enter the IP Address for the DeviceMaster LT. It is not necessary to enter the Subnet Mask and Default Gateway. 8. Click Ok to close the Add New Device window. It may take a few moments to save the DeviceMaster LT. 9. If necessary, click Refresh for the new DeviceMaster LT to display in the Device Tree or Device List panes. The DeviceMaster LT shows OFF-LINE if it is not attached to the network or if an incorrect IP address was entered.
Using SocketServer Configuration Files 6. Select LOCAL for the Detection Type. 7. Enter the MAC address or network information. Note: A MAC address label is attached to all DeviceMaster LT units. The first three pairs of digits start with 00 C0 4E. 8. Optionally, enter the serial number in the Serial Number list box. 9. Click Ok. 10. If necessary, click Refresh for the new DeviceMaster LT to display in the Device Tree or Device List panes.
Loading a SocketServer Configuration File • Click Load Settings from a File on the Software Settings tab of the Properties screen 2. Click Yes to the warning that it will take 25 seconds per device and it may also reboot the devices. 3. Browse to the location of the configuration file, click the file name (.dc) and then Open. 4. Click the All check box or click only the properties that you want to load for each property page in the configuration file and then click Done.
Using Driver Configuration Files Using Driver Configuration Files This subsection discusses how to create (save) and load driver configuration files.
Saving Port-Level Configuration 5. Optionally, change the default file name and click Save. 6. Repeat the previous steps for each DeviceMaster LT for which you want to save the driver configuration. Saving Port-Level Configuration Use the following procedure to create and save a port configuration file. Port configuration, must be saved on a port-by-port basis. 1.
Loading Driver Configuration Files Loading Driver Configuration Files You must have previously saved a driver configuration file before you can load a configuration file. The driver configuration file uploads in portions: Loading Device Configuration • Device-level configuration parameters. • Port configuration parameters. You must upload each port's configuration parameters separately. Use the following procedure to load the configuration file for device-level information for your DeviceMaster LT.
Loading Port Configuration 6. Highlight the configuration file and click Open. The configuration file loads in a few moments. 7. Make the appropriate choice for your situation: • Click No to the ComtrolApplet message, if you are using the file to set up multiple DeviceMaster LTs with the same device-level settings. • Click Yes to the ComtrolApplet message, if you are using the file to restore a specific DeviceMaster LT.
Loading Port Configuration 3. In the left pane, highlight the port for which you want to load the port-level settings from the configuration file. 4. Click Load Configuration. 5. Browse to the location of the configuration file that you want to load. 6. Highlight the configuration file and click Open. The configuration file loads in a few moments. 7.
Changing the Bootloader Timeout 8. Click Apply so that the configuration is saved on the DeviceMaster LT. 9. Repeat Steps 3 through 8 for each port that you want to restore. Changing the Bootloader Timeout If SocketServer fails during the upload process, you should change the Bootloader timeout value to 45 seconds. Note: The DeviceMaster LT must be able to communicate using an IP address, which is compatible with this local network. If necessary, refer to Configuring the Network Settings on Page 18.
Managing Bootloader Managing Bootloader Bootloader refers to the operating system that runs on the DeviceMaster LT hardware during the power on phase, which then loads SocketServer. Note: Typically, you should not update the Bootloader unless advised to do so by Comtrol Technical Support. There are several methods and tools that you can use to check the Bootloader version or update the Bootloader.
Uploading Bootloader 3. Right-click the DeviceMaster LT for which you want to update, click Advanced > Upload Firmware, browse to the Bootloader .bin file, and then click Open. 4. Click Yes to the Upload Firmware message that warns you that this is a sensitive process. 5. Click Ok to the second Upload Firmware message. 6. Right-click the DeviceMaster LT and click Refresh until the Bootloader version displays in the Device List pane and verify that the new version loaded.
Checking the NS-Link Version Checking the NS-Link Version Use this procedure to check the NS-Link web page version. Remember, an NSLink version displays when the NS-Link device driver has been installed and configured, NS-Link is the same firmware as SocketServer. 1. Start PortVision DX. 2. If necessary, click Scan to locate the DeviceMaster LT. The Device List pane displays the NS-Link (SocketServer) version. 3. Check the Comtrol ftp site to see if a later version is available.
Restoring Serial Port Settings 5. If a higher version of SocketServer is available and you want to update the DeviceMaster LT with the latest software: a. Update SocketServer using Uploading SocketServer with PortVision DX on Page 24. b. Download the latest driver from ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/dev_mstr/LT/drivers/ win7. c. Update to the latest driver using the DeviceMaster LT Device Driver (NSLink) User Guide, which can be downloaded using Page 9 or viewed on the Comtrol CD shipped with the DeviceMaster LT.
Socket Port 3. When the Reboot page appears, click the Set configuration for all ports to factory default settings check box. 4. Click the Yes, Reboot button. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Accessing SocketServer Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) Accessing SocketServer Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) You can open a Telnet or SSH session using PortVision DX. Use the appropriate procedure for your site: Telnet Session • Telnet Session (below) • SSH Session on Page 92 Use the following procedure to access a telnet session with PortVision DX. 1.
Telnet Session 3. If necessary, enter the password and press Enter. If a password has not been set, press Enter. 4. You can type help to refer to available commands supported by SocketServer/ NS-Link. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
SSH Session SSH Session Use the following procedure to access an SSH session with PortVision DX. 1. In PortVision DX, PortVision DX, right-click the DeviceMaster LT in the Device List pane for which you want to open an SSH session, and click Telnet/ SSH Session. 2. Click SSH and leave the port number at the default. 92 - Managing the DeviceMaster LT DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
SSH Session 3. If necessary (depending on the operating system), respond to the security notification. 4. Press Enter. Note: The DeviceMaster LT does not have a user name. 5. If necessary, enter the password and press Enter. If a password has not been set, press Enter. 6. You can type help to refer to available SocketServer/NS-Link commands. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Accessing RedBoot Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) Accessing RedBoot Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) You can open a Telnet or SSH session using PortVision DX to access RedBoot commands. Use the following procedure to access a telnet or SSH session with PortVision DX. 1. In PortVision DX, PortVision DX, right-click the DeviceMaster LT in the Device List pane for which you want to open a telnet session, and click Telnet/ SSH Session. 2.
Accessing RedBoot Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) 3. If necessary, enter the password and press Enter. If a password has not been set, press Enter. If using an SSH session, press Enter to the login as prompt. Note: If the PuTTY screen flashes in the background and does not appear as shown above, make sure that Enable Telnet/ssh has not been disabled in SocketServer. To check this, return to PortVision DX, right-click the DeviceMaster LT in the Device List pane, and click Webpage.
Accessing RedBoot Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) 5. Quickly re-open the telnet or SSH session using the previous steps. 6. Select Telnet or SSH, leave the Selected Port number, and click Ok. 96 - Managing the DeviceMaster LT DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Accessing RedBoot Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) 7. Press Enter. You can type help to review the RedBoot commands. You can also refer to RedBoot Command Overview on Page 107. Note: The dm prompt should be replaced by a redboot prompt. If not, you can reset the Bootloader timeout for a longer time period and retry this procedure. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Accessing RedBoot Commands in Telnet/SSH Sessions (PortVision DX) 98 - Managing the DeviceMaster LT DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
RedBoot Procedures You can use this section as a reference if you want to perform tasks in RedBoot.
Establishing a Serial Connection Establishing a Serial Connection Use the following procedure to set up a serial connection with a terminal server program. You can use HyperTerminal (Windows) or Minicom (Linux) or optionally, Test Terminal (WCom2), which can be accessed from PortVision DX using Tools > Applications > Test Terminal (WCom2). 1. Connect a null-modem cable from an available COM port on your PC to Port 1 on the DeviceMaster LT.
Establishing a Telnet Connection Establishing a Telnet Connection Use the following procedure to telnet to the DeviceMaster LT. 1. Open a telnet session, enter the DeviceMaster LT IP address. If using Windows, open a Command window and type telnet [ip_address] 2. Press the Enter key if you did not program a password or type the password and press Enter. ♥♦ Password: Comtrol DeviceMaster RTS Model ID: 5002535 SocketServer 9.18 Built: Wed Aug 28 11:08:48 CST 2013 IP Addr: 192.168.11.52, Mask: 255.255.0.
Determining the Network Settings Determining the Network Settings If you are not sure what the network information is on a DeviceMaster LT, you can perform the following procedure. 1. Establish communications with the DeviceMaster LT using the serial (Page 100) or telnet (Page 101) method. Default Network Settings IP address: 192.168.250.250 Subnet mask: 255.255.0.0 Gateway address: 192.168.250.1 2. At the RedBoot prompt, type ip. RedBoot>dis Loading disabled RedBoot> ip IP: 192.168.250.250 Mask: 255.255.
Changing the Bootloader Timeout Changing the Bootloader Timeout Use the following procedure to change the Bootloader timeout value. 1. Establish communications with the DeviceMaster LT using the serial (Page 100) or telnet (Page 101) method. 2. At the RedBoot prompt, type timeout. RedBoot> dis Loading disabled RedBoot> timeout Timeout 15 seconds RedBoot> timeout 45 timeout 45 seconds RedBoot>_ RedBoot responds with the current Bootloader timeout value. 3.
Resetting the DeviceMaster LT Resetting the DeviceMaster LT When you have completed your tasks in RedBoot, you must enter a reset command at the RedBoot> prompt for the DeviceMaster LT to begin operation. Note: The LEDs on the DeviceMaster LT will go through the power up sequence. The DeviceMaster LT has completed its reset cycle when the Status LED is lit and it stops flashing.
Uploading the Firmware 5. Restart iptables to pick up the changes from Steps 3 and and 4: /sbin/service iptables restart 6. Add the proper lines to /etc/hosts.allow: in.tftpd: 192.168.250.250 7. Go to Uploading the Firmware on Page 105 to load the firmware. Uploading the Firmware This Linux procedure requires that a TFTP server is installed. 1. Verify that you have the .bin file (Locating Software and Documentation on Page 9) and place the .
Configuring Passwords If uploading SocketServer: a. At the RedBoot> prompt, type: fis list and press Enter. RedBoot> fis list Name FLASH addr FIS_directory 0x053F0000 default 0x05030000 RedBoot> Mem addr 0x053F0000 0x00000000 Length 0x00010000 0x00090000 Entry point 0x00000000 0x00000000 Note: You should see file information for a file called default. If you do not see this file, repeat the process starting with Step 9. b. Reset the DeviceMaster LT by typing reset at the RedBoot> prompt.
RedBoot Command Overview RedBoot Command Overview The following table is an overview of RedBoot commands available. After accessing RedBoot, you can review the list of commands online by entering help and pressing the Enter key. For more detailed information, see the eCos Reference Manual that is located on the Comtrol Software and Documentation CD or you can download it from: ftp:// ftp.comtrol.com/dev_mstr/LT/software/redboot/user_guide. RedBoot Commands Sets or displays web authentication.
RedBoot Command Overview RedBoot Commands (Continued) mcopy -s -d -l [-1|-2|-4] Copies memory from one address to another. mfill -b -l -p [-1|-2|-4] Fills a block of memory with a pattern. model† Shows model number. password {password} Sets or deletes the password. ping [-v] [-n ] [-l ] [-t ] [-r ] [-i ] -h Network connectivity test. reset Resets the DeviceMaster LT.
Hardware Specifications Locating DeviceMaster LT Specifications Specifications can be found on the Comtrol web site. External Power Supply Specifications This subsection discusses information that you may need if you wish to use your own external power supplies. This table provides specifications for the power supply shipped with the DeviceMaster LT.
Notices Notices Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) (FCC 15.105) Labeling Requirements (FCC 15.19) This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class A digital devices pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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.
Troubleshooting and Technical Support This section contains troubleshooting information for your DeviceMaster LT. You may want to review the following subsections before calling Technical Support because they will request that you perform many of the procedures or verifications before they will be able to help you diagnose a problem.
Troubleshooting Checklist • • If using a driver for Windows, you can use one of the Comtrol tools. - Advanced tab in the Comtrol Drivers Management Console which helps identify problems. - PortVision DX contains two applications that can be used to test or monitor the DeviceMaster LT: - Test Terminal program, which can be used to troubleshoot communications on a port-by-port basis. See Testing Ports Using Test Terminal on Page 118 for testing procedures.
General Troubleshooting General Troubleshooting This table illustrates some general troubleshooting tips. Note: Make sure that you have reviewed the Troubleshooting Checklist on Page 111. General Condition Explanation/Action Indicates that the bootloader has not downloaded to the DeviceMaster LT. 1. If applicable, remove the NS-Link driver. Status LED flashing 2. Make sure that you have downloaded the most current driver: ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/dev_mstr/LT/ drivers/. 3.
General Troubleshooting General Condition DeviceMaster LT continuously reboots when connected to some Ethernet switches with the NS-Link driver Explanation/Action The problem is caused by a L2 bridging feature called Spanning Tree Algorithm (STA) in the switch. This feature is enabled by default in some switches. This features causes time-out problems on certain L2 protocols, such as our MAC mode. Resolution: There will be no firmware fix for this problem.
Testing Ports Using Port Monitor (PMon2) Testing Ports Using Port Monitor (PMon2) You can use this subsection to test the DeviceMaster LT driver installation. If you need to install the device driver, locate the latest driver and driver installation documentation.
Testing Comtrol COM Ports 4. Click Driver, click RPSHSI/NSLINK. 5. If the DeviceMaster LT is communicating with the device driver for Windows, Port Monitor should display CLOSED status. If a port is open for an application, it displays as OPEN, and displays Actual Throughput, TxTotal and RxTotal statistics. Normally, there should be no data errors recorded or they should be very small. To find out what the actual errors are, scroll to the right.
Testing Comtrol COM Ports 6. You can view additional statistics to Port Monitor by adding columns. Click Tools and Add Columns. 7. Highlight or shift-click to add multiple statistics and click Ok. Note: See the Port Monitor help system if you need an explanation of a column. 8. Scroll to the right to view the new columns. 9. If you want to capture this session, you can save a current session as a report.
Testing Ports Using Test Terminal Reports can be opened, viewed and re-used when needed. To open and view a report: a. Select File > Open or the Open Existing Session Session dialog appears. button. The Open b. Locate the session (table), you want to open and click the Open button. Optionally, if you want to continue monitoring for an existing session, you need to activate the Polling Interval.
Opening Ports Opening Ports The following procedure shows how to use Test Terminal to send and receive test data to the serial ports. If necessary, use Installing PortVision DX on Page 15, which contains Test Terminal. 1. Stop all applications that may be accessing the ports such as RRAS or any faxing, or production software. See the appropriate help systems or manuals for instructions on stopping these services or applications.
Loopback Test (RS-232) You should see the alphabet scrolling across the port. If so, then the port installed properly and is operational. Note: If you left Port Monitor running, it should show data sent and received and show the average data throughput on the port. 4. Select Port > Send and Receive Test Data to stop the scrolling data. 5. You can go to the next procedure to run the Loopback Test on Page 120 if this is an RS-232 port.
Sending and Receiving Data (RS-485: 2-Wire) Sending and Receiving Data (RS485: 2-Wire) This procedure shows how to use Test Terminal (WCom2) to test two RS-485 (2Wire, Half-Duplex) ports. 1. In PortVision DX, click Tools >Applications >Test Terminal (WCom2) to start Test Terminal. 2. Open two ports RS-485 ports. This example uses COM40 and COM41. Test Terminal will open two windows, note that both ports show Receiving on the status bar. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Sending and Receiving Data (RS-485: 2-Wire) 3. Right-click in both COM windows and remove the check mark for Receive. Both COM ports show Ready on the status bar. 4. Right-click in ONE window and select the Receive option from the pop up. 122 - Troubleshooting and Technical Support DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Sending and Receiving Data (RS-485: 2-Wire) 5. Right-click the OPPOSITE window and click Send. The Status line shows Sending or Receiving. In this case, COM40 is sending data and COM41 is receiving the data which is visually confirmed by the data scrolling across the COM41 window. Note: If you do not see the data being received it MAY be necessary to also disable the RTS and DTR options from the right-click pop-up menu in each COM port. 6. Right-click and remove the check mark on the Sending COM port. 7.
Socket Mode Serial Port Testing Socket Mode Serial Port Testing This procedure illustrates using Putty, which is available in PortVision DX. Optionally, you can use any other Winsock compatible application. Note: The following procedure starts with resetting DeviceMaster LT to factory default values. You may want to save the DeviceMaster LT socket configuration using Saving a SocketServer Configuration File on Page 77. 1.
Socket Mode Serial Port Testing 5. If necessary, re-open the web pages and click on the port that you want to test. The following example tests Port 1. 6. Scroll down TCP Connection Configuration options, click the Enable option, and leave all other settings on this page at their default values. Note the Port number as it is needed later in this procedure. In this example, the port number is 8000. 7. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the Save button. 8.
Socket Mode Serial Port Testing 9. Verify that the port has been enabled. 10. Leave the web page open. 11. Attach the loopback plug that was shipped with the DeviceMaster LT to the serial port of the DeviceMaster LT. See Connecting Serial Devices on Page 65 if you need to build a loopback plug. 12. Right-click the DeviceMaster LT in the Device List pane and click Telnet / SSH Session. 126 - Troubleshooting and Technical Support DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Socket Mode Serial Port Testing 13. Enter the socket number of the port that you are testing (Step 6) and click Ok. PuTTY loads. 14. Type 123. If 112233 displays, you need to disable local echo. Use the following steps to disable local echo. a. Go to c: \Program Files (x86)\Comtrol\PortVision DX. b. Execute PUTTY.EXE to open the application. DeviceMaster LT User Guide: 2000586 Rev.
Socket Mode Serial Port Testing c. Click Terminal and click Force off for the Local echo option. d. Return to the Session menu, highlight Default Settings and then click Save. e. Click Cancel to close PuTTY. f. Close the telnet (PuTTY) session that you opened from PortVision DX. g. Re-open the telnet session by right-clicking the DeviceMaster LT, and select the Telnet / SSH Session option. h. Enter the Socket Port number and then click Ok. i. Enter 123, single digits should appear.
DeviceMaster LT LEDs 15. Remove the loopback plug and type abc. No characters should display because the return path is open. 16. Re-attach the loopback plug, type abc, and the characters should appear. 17. If you want to test additional ports, simply repeat this procedure on that port or ports. 18. Remove the loopback plug from the serial port and attach your serial device. You may need to set the serial parameters as necessary to match your attached equipment.
Network and Device LEDs Network and Device LEDs The LEDs indicate that the default DeviceMaster LT application, SocketServer is running or after driver installation, that the NS-Link driver loads. If you have loaded PortVision DX, you can check the DeviceMaster LT status on-line. • If the Status LED on the DeviceMaster LT is lit, it indicates the DeviceMaster LT has power and it has completed the boot cycle.
Removing DeviceMaster LT Security Features Removing DeviceMaster LT Security Features When presented with a DeviceMaster LT that has had all security options set and the user is unaware of what the settings are, the restoring of a DeviceMaster LT can be very difficult.
Serial Connection Method the Bootloader within the time-out period (default is fifteen seconds), an application will be loaded from flash and started. If this happens, repeat Steps 3 through 5. The #!DM command is the only case-sensitive command and must be in uppercase. 6. Enter password and press Enter, which clears the existing password. 7. Enter auth none and press Enter, which removes the authentication level. 8. If you do not know the IP address, enter ip and press Enter. 9.
Returning the DeviceMaster LT to Factory Defaults 14. Click Telnet, leave Port 23 as the Selected Port and click Ok 15. Press Enter at the Password prompt. 16. Enter secureconf disable and press Enter. 17. Enter securedata disable and press Enter. Returning the DeviceMaster LT to Factory Defaults The DeviceMaster LT uses two types of memory, volatile and non-volatile. The volatile memory is in the form of DRAM and SRAM. They are used for program execution and buffers.
Clearing the Flash The EEPROM memory is programmed with a number of default values. The values that you can modified are shown in the following table. Parameter Name Default Value Authentication None User Web or Console Port Configurable Telnet Port Yes No No Yes IP Address 192.168.250.25 Yes 0 Yes Yes Yes IP Mask 255.255.0.0 Yes Yes Yes Yes IP Gateway 192.168.250.1 Yes Yes Yes Yes Password Blank Yes Yes No Yes Telnet Enable Yes Yes Yes Yes Telnet Timeout 300 sec.
Serial Port Access 5. To reset the bootloader timeout value, type timeout 15 and press Enter. 6. To enable SNMP, type snmp enable and press Enter. 7. To disable SSL, type ssl disable and press Enter. The SSL command is only available on DeviceMaster LT products running SocketServer 7.0 and later. Serial Port Access To use the serial method to access the DeviceMaster LT configuration, use Establishing a Serial Connection on Page 100.
Technical Support 6. Click Yes: Reboot. 7. Click the Network tab and make the following changes: a. Click the Use static configuration below check box and enter the following values: • Set the IP Address to 192.168.250.250. • Set the Netmask to 255.255.0.0. • Set the Gateway to 192.168.250.1. • Set the Bootloader Timeout to 15. b. Click Save. c. Click OK when reminded it is necessary to reboot to take effect. The DeviceMaster LT reboots.
