Operating Instructions

Siemens Industry, inc. 22
Ethernet Network Connections
Configuring the MD-xxHD over Ethernet requires that the meter be powered using a second connection.
The MD-xxHD does not support Power Over Ethernet (POE). If the meter is already installed within the
building’s electrical network, closing the AC breaker (or approved disconnect) will turn on the meter
through the meter’s internal power supply. In the rare case that a computer’s USB port cannot provide
500 mA of current, an AC/USB charger or a USB battery can be used as a power source while using
Ethernet for communications.
Both the Network Scan and Connect Over Ethernet to IP options require that a valid network
connection exists between the MD-xxHD meter and configuration PC. This is a common startup
issue!
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP):
MD-xxHD meters are shipped in DHCP mode to prevent IP conflicts with other equipment. The meter is
expecting to receive an IP address from a DHCP service provided by a router, Layer 3 switch, or a server
providing DHCP service. Under this configuration, if the MD-xxHD meter and the host PC are requesting
an IP address from the same DHCP service provider, they will be able to communicate. Upon powering
up, the MD-xxHD meter will indicate the IP address on the LCD display (if equipped) or can be found
using the Network Scan function.
Direct
When a PC is directly connected to a MD-xxHD meter using an ethernet cable, no DHCP service exists.
This configuration can be made to work, but requires changes to either the meter communication settings
or the PC network configuration.
LCD Display
For units equipped with an LCD display navigate to:
Communications → Ethernet Settings → DHCP → OFF
Change the IP address in the meter to match the subnet of your PC’s IP address, making the meter IP
unique, or note the current address on the meter and prepare to configure your PC’s IP settings as shown
below: