Nano IP Series Operating Manual.v2.01
Nano IP Series Operating Manual.v2.01
Nano IP Series Operating Manual.v2.01
Nano IP Series
900 MHz / 2.4 GHz Wireless Ethernet Bridge/Serial Gateway
Document: Nano IP Series.v2.01.pdf
October 2015
Warranty
Microhard Systems Inc. warrants that each product will be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1)
year for its products. The warranty commences on the date the product is shipped by Microhard Systems Inc. Microhard Systems
Inc.’s sole liability and responsibility under this warranty is to repair or replace any product which is returned to it by the Buyer
and which Microhard Systems Inc. determines does not conform to the warranty. Product returned to Microhard Systems Inc. for
warranty service will be shipped to Microhard Systems Inc. at Buyer’s expense and will be returned to Buyer at Microhard Sys-
tems Inc.’s expense. In no event shall Microhard Systems Inc. be responsible under this warranty for any defect which is caused
by negligence, misuse or mistreatment of a product or for any unit which has been altered or modified in any way. The warranty
of replacement shall terminate with the warranty of the product.
Warranty Disclaims
Microhard Systems Inc. makes no warranties of any nature of kind, expressed or implied, with respect to the hardware, softwar e,
and/or products and hereby disclaims any and all such warranties, including but not limited to warranty of non-infringement,
implied warranties of merchantability for a particular purpose, any interruption or loss of the hardware, software, and/or pr oduct,
any delay in providing the hardware, software, and/or product or correcting any defect in the hardware, software, and/or product,
or any other warranty. The Purchaser represents and warrants that Microhard Systems Inc. has not made any such warranties to
the Purchaser or its agents MICROHARD SYSTEMS INC. EXPRESS WARRANTY TO BUYER CONSTITUTES MICRO-
HARD SYSTEMS INC. SOLE LIABILITY AND THE BUYER’S SOLE REMEDIES. EXCEPT AS THUS PROVIDED, MI-
CROHARD SYSTEMS INC. DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PROMISE.
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including any subsidiaries, related corporations, or affiliates, shall be released and discharged from any and all manner of action,
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under, costs and demands of every and any kind and nature whatsoever at law.
IN NO EVENT WILL MICROHARD SYSTEMS INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL,
INCIDENTAL, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, CATASTROPHIC, PUNITIVE OR OTHER DAMAGES WHICH MAY BE
CLAIMED TO ARISE IN CONNECTION WITH THE HARDWARE, REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY BEHIND
SUCH CLAIMS, WHETHER IN TORT, CONTRACT OR UNDER ANY APPLICABLE STATUTORY OR REGULATORY
LAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS, EXECUTIVE OR ADMINISTRATIVE ORDERS OR DECLARATIONS OR OTHER-
WISE, EVEN IF MICROHARD SYSTEMS INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OR OTHERWISE HAS KNOWLEDGE OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES AND TAKES NO ACTION TO PREVENT OR MINIMIZE SUCH DAMAGES. IN THE
EVENT THAT REGARDLESS OF THE WARRANTY DISCLAIMERS AND HOLD HARMLESS PROVISIONS INCLUDED
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JURY, MICROHARD SYSTEMS INC.'S LIABILITY FOR ANYDAMAGES SHALL NOT EXCEED THE PROFIT REAL-
IZED BY MICROHARD SYSTEMS INC. ON THE SALE OR PROVISION OF THE HARDWARE TO THE CUSTOMER.
Proprietary Rights
The Buyer hereby acknowledges that Microhard Systems Inc. has a proprietary interest and intellectual property rights in the
Hardware, Software and/or Products. The Purchaser shall not (i) remove any copyright, trade secret, trademark or other evidence
of Microhard Systems Inc.’s ownership or proprietary interest or confidentiality other proprietary notices contained on, or in, the
Hardware, Software or Products, (ii) reproduce or modify any Hardware, Software or Products or make any copies thereof, (iii)
reverse assemble, reverse engineer or decompile any Software or copy thereof in whole or in part, (iv) sell, transfer or otherwise
make available to others the Hardware, Software, or Products or documentation thereof or any copy thereof, except in accordance
with this Agreement.
It is assumed that users of the products described herein have either system integration or
design experience, as well as an understanding of the fundamentals of radio communications.
Throughout this manual you will encounter not only illustrations (that further elaborate on the
accompanying text), but also several symbols which you should be attentive to:
Caution or Warning
Usually advises against some action which could result in undesired or
detrimental consequences.
Point to Remember
Highlights a key feature, point, or step which is noteworthy. Keeping
these in mind will simplify or enhance device usage.
Tip
An idea or suggestion to improve efficiency or enhance usefulness.
Information
Information regarding a particular technology or concept.
Regulatory Requirements
To satisfy FCC RF exposure requirements for mobile transmitting devices, a separation distance of
23cm or more should be maintained between the antenna of this device and persons during device
operation. To ensure compliance, operations at closer than this distance is not recommended. The
antenna being used for this transmitter must not be co-located in conjunction with any other antenna
WARNING
or transmitter.
This device can only be used with Antennas listed in Appendix D. Please contact Microhard Systems
Inc. if you need more information or would like to order an antenna.
EQUIPMENT LABELING
This device has been modularly approved. The manufacturer, product name, and FCC and Industry
WARNING
Canada identifiers of this product must appear on the outside label of the end-user equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, (1) this device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference and (2) this device must accept any interference
received including interference that may cause received including interference that may cause
undesired operation. undesired operation.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, (1) this device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference and (2) this device must accept any interference
received including interference that may cause received including interference that may cause
undesired operation. undesired operation.
Please Note: These are only sample labels; different products contain different identifiers. The
actual identifiers should be seen on your devices if applicable.
If marked this for Class 1 Division 2 – then this product is available for use in Class 1, Division
2, in the indicated Groups on the product.
The transceiver is not acceptable as a stand-alone unit for use in hazardous locations. The
transceiver must be mounted within a separate enclosure, which is suitable for the intended
application. Mounting the units within an approved enclosure that is certified for hazardous
locations, or is installed within guidelines in accordance with CSA rules and local electrical
and fire code, will ensure a safe and compliant installation.
The antenna feed line; DC power cable and interface cable must be routed through conduit in
accordance with the National Electrical Code.
Do not connect or disconnect equipment unless power has been switched off or the area is
known to be non-hazardous.
Installation, operation and maintenance of the transceiver should be in accordance with the
transceiver’s installation manual, and the National Electrical Code.
Tampering or replacement with non-factory components may adversely affect the safe use of
the transceiver in hazardous locations, and may void the approval.
The wall adapters supplied with your transceivers are NOT Class 1 Division 2 approved, and
therefore, power must be supplied to the units using the screw-type or locking type
connectors supplied from Microhard Systems Inc. and a Class 1 Division 2 power source
within your panel.
If you are unsure as to the specific wiring and installation guidelines for Class 1 Division 2
codes, contact CSA International.
1.0 Overview 10
1.1 Performance Features .......................................................................................................... 12
1.2 Specifications ....................................................................................................................... 12
6.0 Configuration 41
6.1 Web User Interface ............................................................................................................. 42
6.1.1 Logon Window........................................................................................................... 43
6.1.2 Welcome Window ...................................................................................................... 44
6.1.3 System Configuration ................................................................................................ 45
continued...
Appendices
Appendix A: DiscoverIP Utility ................................................................................................ 141
Appendix B: Recovery Procedure (TFTP) .............................................................................. 143
Appendix C: RS485 Wiring ...................................................................................................... 144
Appendix D: Approved Antennas............................................................................................ 145
Appendix E: Nano IP OEM Layout .......................................................................................... 147
Appendix F: Serial Interface.................................................................................................... 148
Appendix G: Customer Interface Schematic........................................................................... 149
The Nano IP Series is a high-performance wireless Ethernet bridge and serial gateway. Alter-
nately, a Master Nano IP Series unit may be configured to operate as a wireless Ethernet router
(and serial gateway).
When properly configured and installed, long range communications at very high speeds can be
achieved.
A BRIDGE separates
two network segments The Nano IP Series operates within the 902-928MHz, or 2.4-2.4835 GHz ISM frequency bands,
within the same logical employing frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) and, for 1.2Mbps operation, digital
network (subnet).
transmission service (DTS) technology.
They provide reliable wireless Ethernet bridge functionality as well gateway service for asyn-
chronous data transfer between most equipment types which employ an RS232, RS422, or
RS485 interface.
A ROUTER forwards The small size and superior performance of the Nano IP Series makes it ideal for many applica-
data across tions. Some typical uses for this modem:
internetworks
(different subnets).
SCADA GPS
remote telemetry wireless video
traffic control robotics
industrial controls display signs
remote monitoring fleet management
LAN extension
longest range
1 920-928MHz or 2.4-2.4835GHz, which is license-exempt within North America, may need to be factory-configured
differently for other areas: contact Microhard Systems Inc.
communicates with virtually all PLCs, RTUs, and serial devices through either one of two
available RS232 interface, RS422, or RS485
advanced serial port supports legacy serial devices, including RTS, CTS, DSR, DTR, and
DCD.
Supporting co-located independent networks and with the ability to carry both serial and IP
traffic, the Nano IP Series supports not only network growth, but also provides the opportunity to
migrate from asynchronous serial devices connected today to IP-based devices in the future.
Electrical/General
Data Encryption: 128-bit WEP/WPA (Canada & USA only. Not available for
export, see –AES/EXP options)
Network Protocols: TCP, UDP, TCP/IP, TFTP, ARP, ICMP, DHCP, HTTP,
HTTPS*, SSH*, SNMP, FTP, DNS, Serial over IP, QoS
(* Only available in –AES)
Environmental
Operation Temperature: -40oF(-40oC) to 185oF(85oC)
Mechanical
Dimensions:
Connectors:
This QUICK START guide will enable you to promptly establish basic IP connectivity
between a pair of Nano IP Series in a point-to-point (ref. 5.1) configuration.
Note that the units arrive from the factory with a Radio Configuration of ‘Remote’ and
the Local Network setting configured as ‘Static’ (IP Address 192.168.1.254, Subnet
Mask 255.255.255.0, and Gateway 192.168.1.1).
Connect the Power Adapters to available 120VAC outlets, and to the Nano
IP Series. The SYS LED will blink for approximately 1 minute while it read-
Use the MHS-supplied power ies itself for operation.
adapter or an equivalent power
source.
Using the Ethernet patch cable, connect PC NIC card to rear ETHERNET
connection on Nano IP Series. (PC must have its Network Settings (TCP/IP
Properties) set to STATIC with an IP Address of (e.g.) 192.168.1.10 and a
Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0.)
Refer to Section 6.1.4.1 re Network (IP) Configuration and assign the unit a new
unique IP Address.
Refer to Section 5.1 and, as per the example settings given, configure unit as MAS-
TER.
Repeat the above for the other Nano IP Series, giving it a new unique IP Address
and configuring it as a REMOTE (5.1).
With both units powered-on, in proximity to each other, and configured as per the
above, their RSSI LEDs should be illuminated, and their TX LED should be ON or
flashing.
With the PC connected to one of the Nano IP Series units, enter the IP Address of
‘the other’ unit: its LogOn window should appear via the wireless connection.
(See Section 6.2 for more information re the Text User Interface.)
2 Nano IP Series (with factory default configuration), each with Power Adapter
and Rubber Ducky Antenna
1 PC with NIC (ethernet) card and COM (serial) port with HyperTerminal (or
equivalent) application
1 Available connection to LAN*
1 Ethernet Patch Cable
1 MHS Diagnostic Cable (P/N MHS044000, black)
*dependent on desired test set-up
Connect the 12V DC Power Adapters to available 120VAC outlets, and to the Nano
IP Series.
Connect a standard RS232 Cable to Diagnostic Port (COM2 -front) of one Nano IP
Series and the other end to an available COM port on the PC.
Run HyperTerminal (or equivalent terminal program) on the PC and configure it for
the COM port chosen above, 115200bps, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, and no
Use the MHS-supplied flow control.
power adapter or an
equivalent power Activate the HyperTerminal connection.
source.
continued...
IP Address
Subnet Mask
View the PC’s Gateway
NETWORK SETTINGS
(TCP/IP Properties) to
determine an Press U to SAVE the configuration changes.
appropriate IP
Address, Subnet Mask,
and Gateway for the Press [Esc] twice to return to the MAIN MENU.
Nano IP Series.
Select Option C: Radio Configuration, then
(For basic testing, the
Gateway value is not B: Operation Mode, then
critical.) A: Master, then
If a connection is
I: Network Type, then
being made to a B: Point-to-Point, then
network (LAN), check J: Destination Unit, then
with the Network
Administrator for an
enter the number 20 [Enter]
available static IP
address(es) so as not Press U to SAVE the configuration changes.
to potentially create
an IP address conflict.
Press [Esc] to return to the MAIN MENU.
Press Q to Quit.
The Nano IP Series configured above is now the MASTER Nano IP Series for your Point-to-
Point Nano IP Series network.
Remove the connection from the MASTER Nano IP’s Diagnostic (COM2) port and move it to the
other Nano IP Series.
Press [Enter]
IP Address
Subnet Mask
Gateway
Press Q to Quit.
The Nano IP Series configured above is now the REMOTE Nano IP Series for your Point-to-
Point Nano IP Series network.
With these two Nano IP Series on a test bench, and configured as per the preceding, a wireless
link will be present between the two units. This may be confirmed by noting that the RSSI (3
front panel LEDs) are illuminated.
The Ethernet connections are dependent upon what is available to work with for the test con-
figuration. For the purposes of this QUICK START, the assumption is that a LAN connection is
available (with Internet connectivity) and that the PC is connected to this LAN.
Disconnect the PC’s LAN connection from its NIC card and insert the now ‘loose
end’ of the Ethernet Patch Cable into the rear ETHERNET RJ45 connector at the
rear of the MASTER Nano IP Series.
Using a CROSSOVER cable, connect the PC’s NIC card RJ45 jack to the
ETHERNET RJ45 connector on the REMOTE Nano IP Series.
At this point there is a wireless connection between the PC and the LAN, and you should be
able to go about your typical networking activities, including accessing the Internet (via the
LAN).
Also, by opening a web browser and entering the IP address of either Nano IP Series, you will
be taken to the respective unit’s Web User Interface LOGIN window.
Verify the RSSI LEDs on the front of each Nano IP Series are illuminated.
Observe the rear of each Nano IP Series, specifically the ETHERNET connection:
the green LINK LED should be illuminated (indicating proper cabling) and the amber
(ACTIVITY LED) should also be flickering—indicating DATA traffic at the
ETHERNET connector.
If using Windows XP, the firewall function could inhibit desired data traffic. Anti-
virus software may also have a negative impact.
The Nano IP Series Modems are available in both OEM and Enclosed packages. The OEM
version supplies all the required raw signals to allow the unit to be tightly integrated into
applications to efficiently maximize space and power requirements. The Enclosed version of the
Nano Series modem allows for a fully operational table top or mountable solution. The various
interface cards and development boards can provide a convenient evaluation platform or an in
between end solution.
The Nano IP OEM module is typically complemented by interface circuitry (e.g. power, data
interface) for most applications. Nano IP Motherboard provides much of this interface circuitry to
aid in the integration or evaluation of the Nano IP module.
The Nano Enclosed Modem supplies all required interface circuitry and all that is required are
general user interfaces (RS232, antenna, power).
Any Nano IP module may be configured as a Master, Repeater (or Repeater/Slave), or Slave.
This versatility is very convenient from a ’sparing’ perspective, as well for convenience in
becoming very familiar and proficient with using the module: if you are familiar with one unit,
you will be familiar with all units.
Image 3-1: Nano IP OEM Bottom View Image 3-2: Nano IP OEM Top View
The Nano IP Series OEM Module has an extremely small form factor as see in Drawing 3-3 and
Drawing 3-4 below. Refer to the Appendix for detailed connector placement and
dimensions.
Detail 'A'
1.915
1.795
0.070
0.225
0.00
1.950
0.1150
2.030
Detail 'A'
Drawing 3-3: Nano IP OEM Side View
1.274
0.990
0
0.130
0.200
0.270
*IPn920: 0.50”
1.280
0.275
0.006
*IPn2420: 0.60”
Antenna
The Nano IP OEM Module uses an MMCX connector.
Data
The Data connectors use AVX-Kyocera 5046 Series 60 pin board to board connectors. The
manufacturers part numbers are listed below, or the mating connector is available directly from
Microhard Systems.
The above part numbers are for the mating connector required to interface to the Nano IP Series
Modems.
To assist in the layout or circuits required to interface with the Nano Series Modems, see the
Appendix.
NC 2 1 ETH_LINK_ACT_LED
NC 4 3 ETH_SPEED_LED
NC 6 5 Vclock
NC 8 7 NC
ETH_CAT6 10 9 NC
ETH_CAT3 12 11 !WAKEUP_usr
1 59
ETH_CAT2 14 13 !CONFIG
J1
ETH_CAT1 16 15 !RESET
2 60
COM2_RxD 18 17 Vbat
COM2_TxD 20 19 !RSMode
Antenna
LED_RX 22 21 USB_DDM
LED_TX 24 23 USB_CNX
RSSI3_LED 26 Nano IP 25 USB_DDP
(J1)
RSSI2_LED 28 27 Reserved
1 59 RSSI1_LED 30 29 Reserved
J2 COM1_CTS 32 31 Reserved
COM1_RTS 34 33 Reserved
2 60 COM1_DSR 36 35 USR_1
Nano IP Connector
Placement
COM1_RING 38 37 USR_2
COM1_DTR 40 39 USR_3
COM1_TxD 42 41 NC
COM1_RxD 44 43 NC
COM1_DCD 46 45 NC
!RE_485 48 47 NC
DE_485 50 49 NC
GND 52 51 Vcc (3.3V)
GND 54 53 Vcc (3.3V)
GND 56 55 Vcc (3.3V)
GND 58 57 Vcc (3.3V)
Pins 2, 4, 6, and 8 are GND 60 59 Vcc (3.3V)
reserved for factory use.
Do not use these pins for Drawing 3-5: J1 60-pin OEM Connector Pin-out
any other purpose.
Inputs and outputs are The above drawing depicts a bottom view of the J1 connector. The corner pins (1, 2, 59, and
3.3V nominal (3.0V min 60) are printed directly upon it for convenient reference.
— 3.6V max) unless
otherwise specified. A full description of the various pin connections and functions is provided on the pages that
follow.
See the Appendix for an example schematic for interfacing to the Nano IP OEM module.
Vclock 5 Reserved. I
!WAKEUP_usr 11 Reserved I
!CONFIG 13 Active low. In normal mode, pull it low and hold for more than 8 seconds I
will reset the system to default settings. Pull it low upon power up will put
the module into recovery mode.
Vbat 17 Battery voltage sensing analog input line, up to 60VDC. A 10k-ohm resistor I
is required inline from the power source. Reading will be 0 if connected to
GND (ground).
RSMode 19 Sleep mode indication output. Active low. Typically used to shutdown O
RS232 drivers.
COM2_RxD 18 Console Port receive data. Logic level output from Nano IP to a PC. O
COM2_TxD 20 Console Port transmit data. Logic level input from a PC into the Nano IP. I
LED_RX 22 Active high output indicates receive and synchronization status. Can drive O
LED directly. Refer to section 3.4.2 for additional information about LED
operation.
LED_TX 24 Active high output indicates module is transmitting data over the RF O
channel. Can drive LED directly. Refer to section 3.4.2 for additional
information about LED operation.
RSSI2_LED 28 Receive Signal Strength Indicator 2. Active high, can drive LED directly. 1mA O
rating.
RSSI1_LED 30 Receive Signal Strength Indicator 1. Active high, can drive LED directly. 1mA O
rating.
COM1_TxD 42 Data Port. Transmit Data. Logic level input into the modem. I
COM1_RxD 44 Data Port. Receive Data. Logic level output from the modem. O
!RE_485 48 Data Port. RS485 Receiver Output Enable. Active Low Output. O
DE_485 50 Data Port. RS485 Driver Output Enable. Active High Output. O
Vcc 51,53,55, Positive voltage supply voltage for the module (3.3V). I
57,59
GND 52,54,56, Ground reference for logic, radio, and I/O pins.
58,60
All serial communications signals are logic level (0 and 3.3V). DO NOT connect RS-232 level (+12, -
12VDC) signals to these lines without shifting the signals to logic levels.
Serial RxD is the data received by the radio through the wireless link and output via the serial port; Serial
TxD is the data received into module from the serial port and transmitted over the wireless link.
The Nano IP Motherboard and Nano IP Enclosed share the same signals, indicators,
connections and operate identically so they will be described in the same section.
The Nano IP Motherboard can be used to quickly evaluate the features and performance of the
Nano Series Modems, or it can be integrated entirely into applications as a quick and robust
interface to the Nano Modems.
The Nano IP Enclosed provides a fully enclosed, stand alone modem, requiring only cabled
connections. The Nano Enclosed can be used on a table top like surface, or using the mounting
holes provided can be mounted anywhere for a permanent solution.
Power
Data (Serial) Interface
Ethernet Interface
USB Interface
Indicators
Antenna
Any Nano IP module may be configured as a Master, Repeater (or Repeater/Slave), or Slave.
This versatility is very convenient from a ’sparing’ perspective, as well for convenience in
becoming very familiar and proficient with using the module: if you are familiar with one unit,
you will be familiar with all units.
Back
ANTENNA
ENSURE CORRECT
PLACEMENT OF
RADIO ASSEMBLY
Front
STATUS
USB TX RX CONFIG
RSSI
Front View
Drawing 3-7: Nano IP Motherboard Top View
RS485/422
RxB -
RxA -
TxA -
GND -
TxB -
Vin+ -
Back View
Drawing 3-8: Nano IP Motherboard Top View
52.20 69.80
56.20 32.07
Ø7.00
97.70
108.50
119.70
97.70
37.20
119.70
97.70
37.20
119.70
3.2.4.1 Front
On the front of the Nano IP Motherboard/Enclosed is the USB port, DIAGNOSTIC port, CONFIG Button,
and the RSSI, STATUS, TX and RX LED’s.
STATUS
USB TX RX CONFIG
RSSI
The USB port can be used for: (See Section 6.1.7 USB Configuration)
Console Port
Data Mode
Windows USB driver Storage Mode
downloads are available
to registered users
NDIS Mode Signal PIN Input or
from: Name # Output
microhardcorp.com/ The Diagnostic port (RS232) is used for:
RXD 2 O
support
Text User Interface (local console port) at TXD 3 I
115.2kbps and HyperTerminal (or equivalent).
SG 5
User data (serial, RS-232, wired for RxD, TxD,
and SG) Table 3-3: Diagnostic Port RS232 Pin Assignment
CONFIG Button
Holding this button depressed while powering-up the Nano IP Series will boot the unit into FLASH FILE
SYSTEM RECOVERY mode. The default IP address for system recovery (only - not for normal access to
the unit) is static: 192.168.1.39.
If the unit has been powered-up for some time (>1 minute), depressing the CFG Button for 8 seconds will
result in FACTORY DEFAULTS being restored, including a static IP address of 192.168.1.254. This IP
address is useable in a Web Browser for accessing the Web User Interface.
STATUS LED
Upon initial application of power the STATUS LED will be illuminated for approximately 20 seconds, after
which time it will being to blink slowly (loading) for an additional 25 seconds, then stay ON
‗solid‘ (indicating it has achieved its specific operational status).
© Microhard Systems Inc. 29
3.0 Hardware Description
3.2.4.2 Rear
On the back of the Development Board is the Data port, RS485/422 interface, as well as the power
connections.
RS485/422
RxA -
RxB -
TxB -
TxA -
GND -
Vin+ -
DTR 4 I
SG 5
DSR 6 O
RTS 7 I
The RS422/485 Port is used to interface the Nano
CTS 8 O
Development Board to a DTE with the same
interface type. Either the RS232 or RS422/485 interface is used for RING 9 O
data traffic.
Table 3-4: Data RS232 Pin Assignment
Vin+/Vin– is used to power the unit. The input Voltage range is 7-30
Vdc. Green Conn. Name Input or
Pin No. Output
RS485/422 1 TxB (D+) O
2 TxA (D-) O
RxB -
RxA -
TxA -
GND -
TxB -
Vin+ -
3 RxB (R+) I
4 RxA (R-) I
5 Vin -
PoE*– The Nano IP can also be powered using Passive PoE on the
Ethernet Port, via a PoE injector. 6 Vin + I
An Nano IP Series may be configured for any operating mode: this is very convenient for pur-
poses of sparing and becoming familiar with their configuration menus.
4.1 Master
One per network, the source of synchronization for the system. The Master controls the flow of
data through the system.
4.2 Repeater
Required only if necessary to establish a radio path between a Master and Remote(s); stores
and forwards the data sent to it. Synchronizes to Master and provides synchronization to
‘downstream’ units.
If a local device is attached to a Repeater’s serial data port, the Repeater will also behave as a
Remote (aka Repeater/Remote).
As they are added to a radio network it is good practice to use the values 2-17, sequentially, for
Repeater Unit Addresses.
Adding one or more Repeaters within a network will HALVE the throughput; the throughput is
halved only once, i.e. it does not decrease with the addition of more Repeaters.
If there is a ‘radio (signal) path’ requirement to provide Repeater functionality, but throughput is
critical, the repeating function may be accomplished by placing two Nano IP Series at the Re-
peater site in a ‘back-to-back’ configuration. One Nano IP Series would be configured as a Re-
mote in the ‘upstream’ network; the other a Master in the ‘downstream’ network. Local connec-
tion between the modems would be accomplished with a crossover cable (for the ethernet con-
nection). Each modem would require its own antenna; careful consideration should be given
with respect to antenna placement and Nano IP Series configuration.
4.3 Remote
Endpoint/node within a network to which a local device is attached. Communicates with Master
Throughout this either directly or through one or more Repeaters. See Sections 5.3 and 5.4 for information re-
manual, ‘Remote’ garding ‘Slave-to-Slave’ communications.
refers to a Remote as
defined in Section 4.3;
the general term
‘remote’ applies to an
IP Series Repeater
and/or Remote - i.e.
non-Master unit.
The IP Series may be configured to operate in a number of different operating modes and par-
ticipate in various network topologies.
Note: This section describes radio network topologies in general and includes examples of cor-
The RADIO network responding Radio Configuration settings. Refer to section 6 for further detailed information re-
topology determines garding configuration options.
the paths available for
the movement of data.
5.1 Point-to-Point (PTP)
Take this important
fact into consideration In a Point-to-Point network, a path is created to transfer data between Point A and Point B,
when selecting a where Point A may be considered the Master modem and Point B a Remote. Such a PTP
network topology.
network may also involve one or more Repeaters (in a store-and-forward capacity) should the
radio signal path dictate such a requirement. (Note that a Repeater may also concurrently func-
tion as a Remote, i.e. it may pass data to and from an attached device(s).)
A PTP configuration may also be used in a more dynamic sense: there may be many Remotes
(and Repeaters) within such a network, however the Master may have its ‘Destination Address’
changed as and when required to communicate with a specific remote unit.
An example of a basic PTP network consisting of two IP Series is on the next page.
Configuration options are based upon the chosen Operating Mode of the unit: se-
lect the Operating Mode first.
The DESTINATION UNIT for the MASTER is the UNIT ADDRESS of the REMOTE,
and vice versa (noting that the MASTER’s Unit Address (not visible) is preset, and
must remain as, ‘1’).
Example 5.1.1
Example 5.2.1
e.g. Remote 20 can exchange data with (only) Remote 30, Remote 21 can exchange
data with (only) Remote 35, etc.
The Master will resend the data incoming to it from both Remotes to both/all Remotes; one Re-
mote’s data has a Destination Unit being the other Remote and vice versa.
A P2P network requires
a Master modem.
Example 5.3.1
The data being
transmitted from one A device located at a pump station must communicate bi-directionally with another device at a
Remote to another in
P2P mode is
water tank. The MASTER Nano IP Series must reside in an office at a separate location.
transferred via the
Master.
All Nano IP Series within a particular network must be configured to have the same Network
Type.
continued...
© Microhard Systems Inc. 37
5.0 Network Topologies
i.e. data from every modem is broadcast to every other modem in the network.
Considering the amount of data re-broadcasting (via the Master), it is a very bandwidth-intensive
network topology.
An E2E network
requires a Master Example 5.4.1
modem.
1 Master and 3 remote units must all communicate with each other.
The data being
transmitted from
There is no DESTINATION UNIT configuration option as the DESTINATION is pre-
remote units in an E2E defined to be the broadcast address (65535) when in E2E mode.
network travels to the
Master and is then re-
broadcast to all other
remotes.
The following factors must be considered when preparing to configure the modems:
the application
network topology
physical distribution of the network
data interface requirements
Interfacing to the IP Series for the purpose of initially configuring it may be accomplished in one
of two ways:
rear ETHERNET (RJ45) port, ethernet crossover cable, and PC running Microhard
Systems Inc. DiscoverIP utility and Web Browser application.
All configuration of the IP Series is accomplished with a PC. There are no DIP switches to set;
switches which may subsequently become inadvertently misadjusted or intermittent.
The Web User Interface (WebUI) is a browser based configuration method that allows a user a
graphical interface to configure, test and troubleshoot a Nano IP series unit. Any standard web
browser can be used and no additional software is required. Using the Web User Interface a
user can:
In this section, all aspects of the Web Browser Interface, presented menus, and available
configuration options will be discussed.
Upon successfully accessing the Nano IP using a Web Browser, the Logon window will appear.
Note that the password is case sensitive. It may be changed (discussed further along in this
section), but once changed, if forgotten, may not be recovered.
When entered, the password appears as ’dots’ as shown in the image below. This display
format prohibits others from viewing the password.
It is advisable to
change the login
Password (see Section
6.1.6.1). Do not
FORGET the new
password as it cannot
be recovered.
The Welcome window displays the specific Nano IP Series’ name (entered as the Radio
Description in the System Configuration menu). This name quickly confirms the ’identity’ of the
unit being perused and appears in all menu windows.
Software Version - this software resides on the motherboard and is also referred to
as the unit’s ’firmware’
Select the System Operation Mode ‘first’, i.e. prior to configuring Bridge
other options within the unit. Router
Radio Description
The Radio Description is simply a convenient identifier for a specific Values
Nano IP Series, e.g. Pump Station 5, 123 Main Street, etc. This
feature is most welcome when accessing units from afar with large Default is model-dependent
The Radio Description networks: a convenient cross-reference for the unit’s IP address.
must not be confused This ‘name’ appears in all menu windows. It has no bearing on the up to 30 characters
with the Network unit’s operation.
Name (Radio
Configuration menu).
The Network Name Date (yyyy-mm-dd)
MUST be exactly the
same on each unit The calendar date may be entered in this field. Note that the Values
within an Nano IP entered value is lost should the Nano IP Series lose power for
Series network.
some reason. 2007-05-07 (varies)
valid date values, where
yyyy = 4-digit year
mm = 2-digit month
dd = 2-digit day
Time (hh:mm:ss)
The calendar date may be entered in this field. Note that the Values
entered value is lost should the Nano IP Series lose power for
some reason. 11:27:28 (varies)
valid time values, where
hh = 2-digit hours
mm = 2-digit minutes
ss = 2-digit seconds
60
0-65535
0
0-65535
Soft Buttons
Synchronize with NTP Server
Useable to have related parameters on this page updated with current time values when
valid NTP Server information has been configured and the service is enabled within the
modem (see Section 6.1.3.2 for additional information).
Submit
Write parameter values into memory.
Reset
Restore ‘currently’ modified parameter values to those which were previously written into
memory.
For a basic implementation, only the Local IP Configuration (submenu) options need to be
defined.
The Ethernet MAC address (as displayed above) is that of the ETHERNET interface located at
the rear of the Nano IP Series.
This submenu, along with Radio Configuration settings, are the minimum which must be
considered when implementing any Nano IP Series network.
Once the above is ascertained, the items within this submenu may be configured.
DHCP: Dynamic Host
Configuration Protocol
may be us ed by
n et w or k ed d evic es
(Clients) to obtain unique
network addresses from a
DHCP server.
Advantage:
Ens ures uni qu e IP
addresses are assigned,
from a central point
(DHCP server) within a
network.
Disadvantage:
The address of a
particular device is not
‘known’ and is also
subject to change.
IP Address Mode
If ‘static’ is selected, the three following fields are to be manually populated Values
with values which will suit the network/devices to which the Nano IP Series
is connected. static
dhcp
If DHCP mode is If ‘DHCP’ is selected, the three following fields will be automatically
selected, but there is no populated by the DHCP server. The DHCP Timeout value may be
DHCP server available,
manually modified from the factory default value.
after the DHCP timeout
period the units will
default to function simply
as a ’wireless bridge’.
IP Address
If DHCP is selected (see above), a unique IP address will be Values
assigned to the Nano IP Series; if STATIC IP address mode has
been selected, enter a suitable value for the specific network. 192.168.1.254
DHCP Timeout
This value determines for how long the Nano IP Series will await to Values
receive information from a DHCP server. If this timeout expires, the
unit will assign itself a random Class D IP address (and subnet seconds
mask) and function simply as a wireless bridge.
60
1-65535
DNS Mode
The setting determines whether the Nano IP Series will have its Values
DNS Server information entered manually (static) or if it will obtain
the information (provided it is available) via the connected network. static
automatic
Soft Buttons
Submit
Write parameter values into Nano IP Series memory.
Reset
Restore ‘currently’ modified parameter values to those which were previously written into
Nano IP Series memory.
The Ethernet Port IP Configuration applies to the ‘wired’ port (at rear of IP Series unit), which
may also be considered as the WAN (Wide Area Network) port.
The Wireless Port IP Configuration applies to the LAN (Local Area Network): the LAN consists
Only the MASTER Nano
IP Series unit may be
of the devices, and Nano IP Series units, connected to each other via the wireless (radio)
configured as a Router. network.
Refer to the preceding section for configuring the Ethernet Port, keeping in mind that the
settings apply only to the ‘wired’ connection of the MASTER unit.
There are two other options to be discussed further on the following pages:
VPN Configuration
Subnet Mask
For a small private network with IP addresses appearing similar to Values
192.168.1.xx (Class C address), the standard 255.255.255.0
subnet mask may be applicable. 255.255.255.0
valid value is specific to
the network
Soft Buttons
Submit
Write parameter values into memory.
Reset
Restore ‘currently’ modified parameter values to those which were previously written into
memory.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) may be configured to enable a direct communications link be-
tween one device on the WAN and another on the LAN.
VPN Status
Enable (default) enables the service; Disable disables it. Values
Enable
Disable
The Network Time Protocol (NTP) feature may be ENABLED, provided there is an NTP server
available and its IP address or ’name’ is entered in the appropriate field.
There is a difference in how the DHCP Server operates based on whether the Nano IP Series
unit (Master) is configured to function as a bridge or a router.
6.1.4.3.1 Bridge
The Nano IP Series Master may be configured to provide dynamic host control protocol (DHCP)
service to all attached (either wired or wireless-connected) devices.
6.1.4.3.2 Router
An Nano IP Series Master may be configured to provide dynamic host control protocol (DHCP)
service for an entire LAN (or section thereof). Recall that the LAN consists of wirelessly con-
nected Nano IP Series units and those IP addressable devices which are connected to them. If
this feature is to be utilized, it would be enabled on the Master Nano IP Series unit, noting that
such a DHCP Server service must not be enabled on any other IP Series units or devices which
reside on the same network segment.
With this service enabled on the Master, it can assign IP addresses (as well as subnet mask and
gateway) to the LAN radios and IP devices attached to them provided they are set for DHCP as
opposed to static.
The DHCP Server may also be used to manage up to five MAC address bindings. MAC address
binding is employed when certain devices are to be assigned specific IP addresses (effectively
issuing them a ‘static’ IP address). Such devices are identified by their unique MAC address: the
DHCP Server ensures that a specified IP address is assigned to a specific MAC address (hence,
device - either an Nano IP Series or other IP-based device attached to the LAN).
Server Subnet
Not to be confused with the Server Netmask (see below). Enter the Values
network’s ‘root’ address, e.g. if devices are to be assigned
addresses such as 192.168.1.5 and 192.168.1.6, enter 192.168.1.0 192.168.2.0
in this field.
valid server subnet value
for specific network
Server Netmask
In this field, input the subnet mask which is to be applied to the Values
network. For basic, small, private networks, a Class C subnet mask
such as 255.255.255.0 could be used. 255.255.255.0
Starting Address
This is the starting (‘lower boundary’) IP address of the range of IP Values
addresses (also known as ’IP address pool’) to be issued by the
DHCP Server to the applicable devices on the network. 192.168.2.5
Ending Address
This is the ending (‘upper boundary’) IP address of the range of IP Values
addresses to be issued by the DHCP Server to the applicable
devices on the network. 192.168.2.239
WINS Address
Windows Internet Naming Service (WINS) address to be provided Values
by this server.
WINS: Windows Internet 0.0.0.0
Naming Service keeps Valid WINS IP address
track of which IP address
is assigned to which
computer on a Windows New Binding MAC
network: a process
known as name In this field, input the MAC address (in specified format) of the Values
resolution. It device to which a specific IP address is to be bound.
automatically updates,
which is particularly
00:00:00:00:00:00
important on a network For the Nano IP, the MAC address of the unit may be found on the
where DHCP is in use. label on the bottom of the unit, or it may be viewed on the Network MAC address of target
Configuration menu of that unit. device
New Binding IP
Enter the IP address - from within the range identified with the Values
An address binding is a
Starting Address and Ending Address parameters input previously -
mapping between a
specific IP address and which is to be ‘bound’ to the MAC address identified in the New 0.0.0.0
the MAC address of a Binding MAC field (described above).
specific client. IP address from within
range identified in
Starting Address and
Ending Address fields
Soft Buttons
Add
After entering a New Binding MAC address and a New Binding IP address, click this soft
button to ADD this new binding relationship.
Once ‘added’, the new relationship will be given a number (e.g. Bound 1) and appear at the
lower portion of the DHCP Server Config. menu display, showing both the MAC and
corresponding IP address.
Note that the ADD action must be followed by SUBMIT for the changes to be written to
memory.
Delete
If binding relationships are present, the drop down box (to left of Delete soft button) may be
used to select a particular binding, and the DELETE soft button used to delete it.
Submit
Write parameter values into memory.
Reset
Restore ‘currently’ modified parameter values to those which were previously written into
memory.
The Nano IP Series may be configured to operate as a Simple Network Management Protocol
(SNMP) agent.
Objects specific to the Nano IP Series are hosted under private enterprise number 21703.
An SNMPv1 agent accepts commands to retrieve an object, retrieve the next object, set and ob-
ject to a specified value, send a value in response to a received command, and send a value in
response to an event (trap).
SNMPv2c adds to the above the ability to retrieve a large number of objects in response to a sin-
gle request.
SNMPv3 adds strong security features including encryption; a shared password key is utilized.
Secure device monitoring over the Internet is possible. In addition to the commands noted as
supported above, there is a command to synchronize with a remote management station.
character string
V3 Authentication Password
SNMPv3 user’s authentication password. Only valid when V3 User Values
Authentication Level set to AuthNoPriv or AuthPriv (see above).
00000000
character string
V3 Authentication Password
SNMPv3 user’s encryption password. Only valid when V3 User Values
Authentication Level set to AuthPriv (see above).
00000000
character string
character string
applicable host’s IP
Soft Buttons
Submit
Write parameter values into memory.
Reset
Restore ‘currently’ modified parameter values to those which were previously written into
memory.
In most deployments, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) will not be required. It does consume a
small amount of bandwidth. The default is ‘On’. If desired, change the status to ‘Off’.
Note that this menu item will not appear if the IP Series unit is configured to be a router.
Soft Buttons
Submit
Write parameter values into memory.
Reset
Restore ‘currently’ modified parameter values to those which were previously written into
memory.
Quality of Service (QoS) may be applied to various data which enter the Nano IP Series. This
section describes configuring QoS for data which enters via the ethernet port.
To define particular ports, protocol, and priority to be assigned, see the example of such a
configuration exercise on the following page.
Example 6.1.4.6.1
Assume that we want to add high priority to TCP traffic on Port 8080:
The following screen capture shows the result of the above actions:
The mini window shows port 8080, TCP traffic, as having High Priority. To apply the
configuration: select Enable and SUBMIT.
As ports are defined, the mini window and list boxes (specific to Priority) become populated. To
DELETE any defined port, simply select it via the appropriate list box and click the DELETE soft
button.
The parameters within the Radio Configuration menu must be input properly; they are the most
basic requirement for radio network connectivity.
Prior to configuration, the network topology must be known (see Section 5.0); the role (operating
mode) of the specific Nano IP Series must also be known.
The above screen capture depicts Radio Configuration menu option with Network Search Mode
disabled. On the following page, the screen capture shows what configuration options are
available when Network Search Mode is enabled.
Image 6P: Radio Configuration Menu (upper portion), with Network Search Mode Enabled
With Network Search Mode enabled, Master units with the same authentication key may be
found by Remote units even if they have different network names. This feature, which must be
enabled on all participating units, allows for ‘roaming’ between networks.
Values
Disable
Disable
Enable
Operation Mode
Select the mode of operation for the Nano IP Series: Master, Values
Repeater, or Remote. A Nano IP Series may be configured for any
role required within a radio network. This is convenient for reasons Master
of familiarity, as well as for hardware sparing purposes. Repeater
Remote
Master: Only one per network. For all Network Types data either
originates at, is destined to, or ‘passes through’ the Master.
Repeater: May act simply as a ‘Repeater’ to store and forward data to/from an upstream unit
to/from a downstream unit (e.g. when there is a long distance between the latter units), or, may
act as a Repeater/Remote in which case the above function is performed AND the unit may also
The selected Operation
Mode will effect which
exchange data as a Remote within the network.
configuration options are
presented. If 1 or more repeaters are to be in a network, on the Master (only) the Repeater(s) YES configu-
ration must be selected.
i.e. There are settings
which apply to a Master
which do not apply, and If 2 or more repeaters are to be in a network: the above ‘YES’ setting applies as does the re-
are therefore not quirement for Repeater Registration (discussed further on in this section).
presented, for a Remote.
Remote: Interfaces with remote devices and communicates with Master either directly or via
Repeater(s). Communications between 2 or more Remotes is possible - through the Master -
see Network Types (further on in this section, and also refer to Section 5.3, 5.4).
Authentication Key
The Authentication Key is used to define the network search group: Values
Masters with the same key can be found by Remotes with different
Network Names. Public
Character string
Network Name
All Nano IP Series in a given network must have the same Network Values
Name. This unique network address is not only a security feature
for a particular network, but also allows other networks - with their default is model-
own unique network address - to operate in the same area without dependent
the possibility of undesired data exchange between networks.
Change the default value
for the Network Name to
something unique for your Referring to the Network Profile configuration (detailed previously in
network. Do this for an this section), the Network Name can also be used as the single
added measure of parameter to change when a Remote is to ’switch’ from operating
security and to between distinct networks.
differentiate your network
from others which may be
operating nearby.
The Network Name is also taken into consideration in the frequency
hopping algorithm: change the Network Name and the hopping
pattern will change.
Link Rate
This is the RF communications Link Rate. A lower link rate offers Values
better receive sensitivity performance; a higher link rate, better
throughput. All Nano IP Series in a network must use the same default value and
Link Rate. available rate(s) are
model-dependent
Unit Address
The unit address is, and must be, a unique identifier of each Values
modem in a network.
number varies
If the Operation Mode is
set to MASTER, the Unit The Master has by default, and must retain, a unit address of 1;
Address field will NOT be 65535 is the broadcast address. 2-65534
displayed in the Radio
Configuration menu.
RF Output Power
By setting the unit to
Master, its Unit Address This setting establishes the transmit power level which will be
will be 1.
Values
presented to the antenna connector at the rear of the Nano IP
Series. dBm (mW equivalent)
Unless required, the RF Output Power should be set not for 20 (100)
maximum, but rather for the minimum value required to maintain an 21 (125)
adequate system fade margin. 22 (160)
23 (200)
FCC regulations allow
for up to 36dBi effective 24 (250)
isotropic radiated power 25 (320)
(EIRP). The sum (in 26 (400)
dBm) of the transmitted 27 (500)
power, the cabling loss,
and the antenna gain 28 (630)
cannot exceed 36dBi. 29 (800)
30 (1000)
Retransmissions
This register determines the maximum amount of times that a Values
packet will be retransmitted (in addition to the initial transmission),
noting the following specific behaviors in various network 5
topologies: 0-255
In a PMP system, set PMP: Master will retransmit each data packet the exact number of times specified in the Re-
Retransmissions to the
minimum value required transmissions field; Remote will retransmit only if necessary, and then only until a given packet
as, effectively, the data is acknowledged or the value of the Remote’s Retransmissions field is reached (after which it
throughput from Master to will discard the packet if retransmission not successful). *See also ‘PMP with ACK” described in
Remotes is divided by 1 the Network Type.
plus the Retransmissions
value.
PTP: Nano IP Series will retransmit to its counterpart only if necessary, and to a maximum
number of the value specified in its Retransmissions field. Packet is discarded if retransmis-
sions are not successful. Recipients of packets will discard any duplicates.
Network Type
Defines the type of RADIO network (see Section 5.0) Values
In a point-to-multipoint (PMP) network, the Master broadcasts Point-to-Multipoint
data to all units, and all remote units send their data (ultimately) Point-to-Point
to the Master. Peer-to-Peer
Everyone-to-Everyone
A point-to-point (PTP) network involves a Master and a Slave PMP with ACK
ALL modems in a network
must have the SAME (with 0 or more Repeaters between them).
value for Network Type.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) supports communication (through the Master) between 2 (typically remote)
units.
In an Everyone-to-Everyone (E2E) network, all units communicate with all other units, through
the Master. Note that this mode is very bandwidth-intensive.
In Peer-to-Peer, the Remotes are configured with the target peer’s UA as the Destination Ad-
dress, the Master with 65535; in Everyone-to-Everyone, the Destination Address for ALL units
is 65535 - the broadcast address - as every unit sends its data to every other unit (through the
Master). E2E is a very bandwidth intensive network topology.
Tx Control
This configuration option does not apply to a Master Nano IP. Values
On (the default) permits the Nano IP to transmit, i.e. RF emissions On
are enabled. Off
Roaming Address
This feature allows a Remote unit to synchronize with a specified ‘upstream’ unit (either Master
or Repeater). The options are as follows:
65535: With this value as its Roaming Address, a Remote will synchronize with an upstream
unit which has the same Network Name as the Remote. Should that upstream unit fail, this
When bench testing 3 IP Remote will attempt to synchronize with another ’upstream’ unit within the same network (i.e.
Series for a Master-
Repeater-Remote link, be
same Network Name). This ability is particularly well-suited to mobile applications.
sure to set the Remote’s
Roaming Address to the 1-254: In most static (fixed) networks, where there are no Repeaters, the default value of 1 is
Unit Address (UA) of the maintained: All Slaves synchronize to the Master (whose unit address is 1).
Repeater, and the
Repeater’s Roaming
In networks where Repeaters are present, the value of a Remote’s
Address to the UA (1) of
the Master. Roaming Address typically corresponds to the particular upstream modem with which a
particular Remote is intended to communicate, e.g. Slave with Unit Address 3 may have a
This will ensure that data Roaming Address of 2, where the modem with Unit Address 2 is a Repeater between the Slave
is routed from the Remote
and the Master; the Repeater will have a Roaming Address of 1 as it is to synchronize to the
through the Repeater to
the Master; otherwise, if Master.
the Remote’s Roaming
Address is left at the The Roaming Address dictates to which IP Series (by Unit Address (UA)) a Remote (or
default value of 1, the Repeater) will ’look’ or ’attach to’ for its upstream signal path.
Remote will communicate
directly with the Master,
bypassing the Repeater See the description of Network Profile earlier in this section for more information about roaming-
altogether. type options. The Network Profile allows for roaming between networks whereas the Roaming
Address provides for roaming within a network.
Values
65535 full roaming
Repeater
This setting applies and will appear only if the Link Rate is set to Values
1.2Mbps.
4-16
Channel Number defines the number of channels the unit will hop
on. The minimum number is 4. (Digital Transmission System (DTS) 16
technology is applied at the 1.2Mbps link rate.)
(This setting does not apply if the Link Rate is 345kbps because of
the 64 channels that are available, the unit must hop on exactly 50 -
there is not option to either increase or decrease this amount.)
Zone Restriction
Zone restriction dictates within which band (zone) of frequencies that a particular unit will
operate.
Using zones simplifies network deployment by providing a convenient reference (e.g. Zone 1)
within which a given network can operate, thereby minimizing the potential for internetwork
interference. This is particularly useful when used in conjunction with Network Search Mode to
facilitate minimal interference among adjacently deployed networks.
The tables on the following page illustrate the various zones and their associated frequency
restrictions. Note that there is a difference between zone ‘values’ depending on the Wireless
Link Rate selected. Currently Zone restriction is only supported on models with 345kpbs, and
1.2Mbps link rates available.
7 902.400 906.800
8 912.800 917.200
7 902.400 920.250
8 906.750 923.250
Values
None
Zone 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
When a unit is configured as a Remote, an additional option for Sleep Mode Config… will
appear as shown above. (Not available on IPn2420 models).
Sleep Mode
No Sleep: Sleep mode is disabled by default. Values
Auto Wakeup: Unit will wakeup from activity on serial port, No Sleep
Ethernet port or radio data, if the Radio Awake Time is a nonzero Auto Wakeup
value. Power consumption is about 35-45 mA @ 12VDC. Serial Port Wakeup
Ethernet Port Wakeup
Serial Port Wakeup: Unit will wakeup from serial port or radio data Power Shutdown
if Radio Awake Time is nonzero value. Power consumption is about
15-25mA @ 12VDC.
Awake Time
Defines how long the unit will keep awake. If set to 0, the radio will Values (seconds)
not wakeup until data is received from the serial or ethernet port.
0 - 65535
The Nano IP will enter
sleep mode after 60
seconds when the system
is rebooted.
Sleep Time
Defines how long the unit will sleep. If set to 0, the radio will not Values (seconds)
enter sleep mode.
0 - 65535
Idle Time
System idle time before going into sleep mode cycle. Values (seconds)
1 - 65535
By default, the Nano IP will hop on frequencies across the entire 902-928MHz or 2.4000-2.4835
GHz ISM bands. For some applications or within certain operating environments it may be
All modems in the desired to prohibit the modem from operating on specific frequencies or range(s) of frequencies.
network must have the
same frequency
restriction configured (See Section 6.1.10.4 for a description of the Radio Channel Noise Levels tool.)
within them.
The modem will not allow ‘too many’ frequencies to be restricted; it requires a certain amount of
bandwidth within which to operate to comply with regulations.
The image below shows an example of configuring an Nano IP Series (with 345kbps as an
available Link Rate) with a Link Rate of 345kbps to not operate on channels 1 through 10.
Channel Numbers can be calculated based on the frequency and link rate (determines channel
spacing).
With the Nano IP Series having the option of, and configured for, a Link Rate of 1.2Mbps, the
Frequency Restriction input format remains the same (as for 345kbps described previously),
however, the Channel Number must be reduced by the number of channels restricted, i.e. If
Channels 1-3 are restricted, the Channel Number is to be decreased from 16 to 13, as per the
following example (image below):
The Frequency Restriction ‘value’ must be input into EVERY MODEM in a network. Oftentimes
the applicable Unit Address (as input in the format detailed previously) will be ‘1’ - indicating that
that the Master modem - to which other units synchronize - will not be transmitting on the
specified channel(s). All units in the system will use this information - as input into each one of
them - to generate the appropriate hopping pattern for the network.
In order to ensure that generated hopping patterns are orthogonal to each other (thereby
minimizing possible interference between network segments), if there is more than 1 Repeater
in a network, ALL Repeaters must be registered in EVERY Nano IP Series.
In the above example, there is a total of 3 Repeaters in the system, with Unit Addresses of 7,
18, and 25. Again, these Repeater UAs must be added into each/every Nano IP’s Repeater
Registration field.
Format:
x,y,z
where
x, y, and z are Repeater UAs,
noting that there is no SPACE after the commas.
COM1 (DATA), the rear DE9 connector on the Nano IP Series, and
Serial device data may be brought into a LAN network through TCP, UDP, or multicast; it may
also exit the Nano IP Series network on another Nano IP’s serial port.
COM1 is a full-featured RS232 interface dedicated to serial data traffic. It supports hardware
handshaking. By default, this port is enabled.
COM2 is, by default, disabled. In this state, it may be used as the console port for the text user
interface. Enabled, it becomes another serial port for data traffic. It is a 3-wire (TxD, RxD, and
SG) interface and does not support hardware handshaking.
For brevity, only COM1 is fully detailed in this section; the relative limitations of COM2 are noted
where applicable.
Port Status
Select operational status of port. Enabled by default. Values
*COM2 is Disabled by default. If COM2 is Enabled and there is a Enable
desire to switch it back to Disabled (console mode) via the serial Disable
connection to it, the escape sequence of ‘+++’ may be entered at
the Data Baud Rate for which the port is configured.
Channel Mode
Determines which (rear of unit) serial interface shall be used to Values
connect to external devices: RS232, RS485, or RS422. This
option applies only to COM1 / DATA. When an interface other than RS232
RS232 is selected, the DE9 port will be inactive. RS485 (Half Duplex)
RS422 (Full Duplex)
*COM2 / DIAGNOSTIC is RS232 only, 3-wire (TxD, RxD, and SG).
921600 14400
460800 9600
230400 7200
Note: Most PCs do not
115200 4800
readily support serial
communications greater 57600 3600
than 115200bps. 38400 2400
28800 1200
19200 600
300
Data Format
This setting determines the format of the data on the serial port. Values
The default is 8 data bits, No parity, and 1 Stop bit.
8N1 7N2
8N2 7E1
8E1 7O1
8O1 7E2
7N1 7O2
Flow Control
Flow control may be used to enhance the reliability of serial data Values
communications, particularly at higher baud rates. If the attached
device does not support hardware handshaking, leave this setting None
at the default value of ‘None’. Hardware
CTS Framing
Software flow control When CTS Framing is selected, the Nano IP Series uses the CTS
(XON/XOFF) is not signal to gate the output data on the serial port. Figure 6A below
supported. illustrates the timing of framed output data.
*COM2 does not support Flow Control.
Data Mode
This setting defines the serial output data framing. In Transparent Values
mode (default), the received data will be output promptly from the
Nano IP Series. When set to Seamless, the serial port server will Seamless
add a gap between data frames to comply with the MODBUS Transparent
protocol for example.
Character Timeout
In Seamless mode (see Data Mode), this setting determines when Values
the serial server will consider the recently-received incoming data
as being ready to transmit. As per the MODBUS standard, frames characters
will be marked as ‘bad’ if the time gap between frames is greater
than 1.5 characters, but less than the Character Timeout value. 4
The serial server also uses this parameter to determine the time gap inserted between frames.
It is measured in ‘characters’ and related to baud rate.
Example: If the baud rate is 9600bps, it takes approximately 1ms to move one character. With
the Character Timeout set to 4, the timeout period is 4ms. When the calculated time is less than
3.5ms, the serial server will set the character timeout to a minimum value of 3.5ms. If the baud
rate is greater than 19200bps, the minimum character timeout is internally set to 750us
(microseconds).
Priority
This setting effects the Quality of Service (QoS) associated with the Values
data traffic on the specific COM port.
Normal
Medium
High
© Microhard Systems Inc. 86
6.0 Configuration
IP Protocol Config
This setting determines which protocol the serial server will use to transmit serial port data over
the IP Series network.
The protocol selected in
the IP Protocol Config TCP Client: When TCP Client is selected and data is received on its serial port, the Nano IP
field will determine which Series takes the initiative to find and connect to a remote TCP server. The TCP session is
configuration options terminated by this same unit when the data exchange session is completed and the connection
appear in the remainder
of the COMn
timeout has expired. If a TCP connection cannot be established, the serial port data is
Configuration Menu. discarded.
TCP Server: In this mode, the Nano IP Series will not INITIATE a session, rather, it will wait for
TCP: Transmission a Client to request a session of it (it’s being the Server—it ‘serves’ a Client). The unit will ‘listen’
Control Protocol in on a specific TCP port. If a session is established, data will flow from the Client to the Server,
contrast to UDP does
provide sequencing
and, if present, from the Server to the Client. If a session is not established, both Client-side
information and is serial data, and Server-side serial data , if present, will be discarded.
connection-oriented; a
more reliable protocol, Local Listening Port
particularly when large
amounts of data are being The TCP port which the Server listens to. It allows a TCP connection to be created
communicated. by a TCP Client to carry serial port data.
Default: 20001
Requires more bandwidth Incoming Connection Timeout
than UDP.
Established when the TCP Server will terminate the TCP connection is the
connection is in an idle state.
Default: 300 (seconds)
Monitor / Multi-Polling
Monitor mode, the TCP Server sends data collected from serial port(COM1) to all
the connected TCP Clients. Multi-polling Mode, the TCP Server sends data
collected from serial port(COM1) to the connected TCP client which is the last one
that sent the data(request) to the TCP Server.
TCP Client/Server: In this mode, the Nano IP will be a combined TCP Client and Server,
meaning that it can both initiate and serve TCP connection (session) requests. Refer to the
TCP Client and TCP Server descriptions and settings described previously as all information,
combined, is applicable to this mode.
UDP Point-to-Multipoint (P): This mode is configured on an Nano IP Series which is to send
multicast UDP packets; typically, the MASTER in the Nano IP Series network.
Multicast IP Address
A valid multicast address this unit uses to send multicast UDP packets upon
receiving data from the serial port. The default value is a good example of a valid
multicast address.
Multicast is a one-to- Default: 224.1.1.1
many transmission of
data over an IP network. Multicast Port
It is an efficient method of A UDP port that this Nano IP will send UDP packets to. The Multipoint (MP - see
transmitting the same
data to many recipients.
the UDP Point-to-Multipoint (MP) description) stations should be configured to listen
The recipients must me to this point in order to receive multicast packets from this Nano IP Series.
members of the specific Default: 20001
multicast group.
Listening Port
The UDP port that this unit receives incoming data on from multiple remote units.
Default: 20011
Time to Live
Time to live for the multicast packets.
Default: 1 (hop)
TTL: Time to Live is the
number of hops a packet
can travel before being UDP Point-to-Multipoint (MP): This protocol is selected on the units which are to receive
discarded. multicast UDP packets, typically the Remote units. See the previous description of UDP Point-to
-Multipoint (P).
In the context of multicast,
a TTL value of 1 restricts
the range of the packet to Remote IP Address
the same subnet. The IP address of a distant device (IP Series or, for example, a PC) to which
the unit sends UDP packets of data received on the serial port. Most often this
is the IP address of the Master IP Series.
Default: 0.0.0.0
Multicast Port
The UDP port that this unit will use, along with the Multicast IP Address detailed
above, to receive the multicast UDP packets sent by the UDP Point-to-
Multipoint (P) unit.
Default: 20001
UDP Multipoint-to-Multipoint
Multicast IP Address
A valid multicast address the unit will use to send multicast UDP packets upon
receiving them at its serial port.
Default: 224.1.1.1
Multicast Port
UDP port that the packets are sent to. Multipoint stations should be configured to
listen to this port in order to receive multicast packets.
Default: 20011
Time to Live
Time to live for the multicast packets.
Default: 1 (hop)
Mail Subject
SMTP: Simple Mail Enter a suitable ‘e-mail subject’ (e-mail heading).
Transport Protocol is a Default: COM1 Message
protocol used to transfer
mail across an IP Mail Server (IP/Name)
network. IP address or ‘Name’ of SMTP (Mail) Server.
Default: 0.0.0.0
Mail Recipient
A valid e-mail address for the intended addressee, entered in the proper format.
Default: host@
Timeout (s)
How long the unit will wait to gather data from the serial port before sending an e-
mail message; data will be sent immediately upon reaching Message Max Size.
Default: 10
Transfer Mode
Select how the data received on COM1 is to be sent to the email addressee.
Options are: Text, Attached File, Hex Code.
Default: Text
Note: COM2 does not support this mode.
Values
TCP Client
TCP Server
TCP Client/Server
UDP Point-to-Point
UDP Point-to-Multipoint (P)
UDP Point-to-Multipoint(MP)
UDP Multipoint-to-Multipoint
SMTP Client
Console Mode Provides support for the USB-to-Serial console port. In this case, Mini
USB port can be used as a USB-to-Serial console port for the text user
interface.
Data Mode Provides support for the USB-to-Serial port. Mini USB port can be used as
a RS232 interface dedicated to serial data traffic.
Storage Mode When configured in Storage Mode the Nano IP appears as a USB Mass
Storage device to a host system and emulates a USB memory stick. It has
been formatted as MSDOS (for Windows) file system.
NDIS Mode Provides support for sending and receiving Ethernet frames. Mini USB
port can be used as a network interface card.
Windows Drivers are available from the Support Desk on the Microhard Systems Inc website.
Data Mode:
USB Data Mode is Disabled by default. If USB Data Mode is selected and there is a desire to
switch it back to Disabled (console mode) via the USB-to-Serial connection to it, the escape
sequence of '+++' may be entered at the Data Baud Rate for which the port is configured.
Storage Mode:
Storage Mode is disable by default. This setting determines device will acts as a USB Mass
Storage disk drive with capacity of 2MB.
Values
Console Mode
Data Mode
Storage Mode
NDIS Mode
Bridge
If the unit has been configured as a Bridge (under the System Configuration menu), the USB
NDIS interface will add itself in bridge automatically.
Router
If the unit has been configured as a Router (under the System Configuration menu), the
Network Configuration will present a additional options for USB NDIS.
Subnet Mask
For a small private network with IP address appearing similar to 192.168.1.xx (Class C
address), the standard 255.255.255.0 subnet mask may be applicable.
USB Connect As
Display of chosen protocol with respect to serial gateway function. Configure via USB
Configuration menu.
The other displayed parameters are not all applicable. Of most use are the transmitted and
received bytes/packets: these will indicate if data is coming into and out of the USB port.
There is significant security inherent in the Nano IP’s proprietary design and technology
implementation. There are additional security features available, both as standard and optional
items.
To keep a system secure, the Administrator Password (which is prompted-for at the LogOn
window) should be modified rather than retaining the factory default value of ‘admin’.
The Upgrade Password protects the Nano IP from having a package upgrade performed by an
unauthorized person. It is recommended that the default password be changed when the
system is deployed.
admin
Encryption Status
By default, the Encryption Status is Disabled. If Enabled, a number Values
of Encryption Types are available, requiring varying amounts of
configuration. Disable
Enable
Encryption Type
Compression: Although not encryption per se, applying a compression algorithm to the input
data within the transmitting Nano IP Series does require that the corresponding decryption
algorithm be applied to the output data of the receiving unit to make it meaningful.
Compression requires processing time. Depending on the nature of the data, throughput may
be either enhanced or not effected by the compression process.
WEP 64-bit: Wired Equivalency Protocol (WEP) encryption adds some overhead to the data,
thereby negatively effecting throughput to some degree.
continued...
WPA is based on a WEP 128-bit: 128-bit encryption offers stronger encryption that 64-bit, but adds more overhead
subset of the 802.11i on the data. The configuration for WEP 128-bit is the same as for 64-bit; see the preceding text.
protocol.
WPA: Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). It provides stronger security than WEP does. The
configuration is essentially the same as for WEP (described above), without the option for
automatic Key generation.
AES 128-bit (optional for North America): Very strong encryption. Basically the same
configuration as for WEP applies. Input up to 4 unique Keys of 16 characters each.
AES: Advanced
Encryption Standard is a AES 256-bit (optional for North America): Extremely strong encryption with a Key length
very robust symmetric double that of 128-bit AES. Basically the same configuration as for WEP applies. Input up to 4
encryption algorithm. unique Keys of 32 characters each.
Values
Compression
WEP 64-bit
WEP 128-bit
WPA
AES 128-bit*
AES 256-bit*
The configuration selection will determine whether or not this modem may be discovered using
the utility, and whether or not changes may be made to the Nano IP Series via the utility. The
choice is typically based-upon network security considerations.
Discovery Service
Disable: This unit will not appear to exist when the DiscoverIP utility is used to search for Nano
IP / IP Series on the network.
Discoverable: This unit will appear as existing on an Nano IP Series network when the
DiscoverIP utility is used to search for units.
Changeable: The unit will be discoverable, and certain specific configuration commands may
be sent to it.
Values
Disable
Discoverable
Changeable
User Interface (UI) Access Configuration. By default, all UI access options are available, and
include:
Telnet: A user command
which uses the TCP/IP
protocol to access a remote Telnet
device. HTTP
Format, from DOS prompt: SSH (if optioned)
>telnet 192.168.1.50 HTTPS (if optioned)
where the IP address is that
of the target device.
For security reasons, any or all may be disabled.
If the above IP address is that
of an Nano IP Series
accessible via the network,
the user will arrive at the
unit’s LogOn window.
There are two methods whereby a user may be authenticated for access to the Nano IP Series:
Local
RADIUS&Local
Auth Mode
Select the Authentication Mode: Local (default) or RADIUS&Local. Values
For the latter selection, RADIUS authentication must be attempted
FIRST; if unsuccessful, THEN Local authentication may be Local
attempted. RADIUS&Local
RADIUS Server IP
In this field, the IP address of the RADIUS server is to be entered if Values
RADIUS&Local has been selected as the Authorization Mode.
Valid RADIUS server IP
address
0.0.0.0
RADIUS Secret
If the IP Series’ Authorization Mode has been set to Values
RADIUS&Local, obtain the RADIUS Secret for his particular client
from your RADIUS Server Administrator and enter it into this field, Specific RADIUS Server
and the following field. (You will also want to obtain the applicable secret
RADIUS User Name from your RADIUS Server Administrator.)
nosecret
nosecret
RADIUS Timeout
Amount of time to wait for RADIUS authentication. Values
10
1-65535
seconds
The Firewall Configuration is used to allow or disallow particular types of traffic and access to
and from the network.
This security feature differs from those discussed in the ‘UI Configuration’ section; the UI
Configuration is specifically for configuring the Nano IP’s User Interface and related protocols.
Firewall Status
Disabled by default. When enabled, the firewall settings are in Values
effect.
Disable
Enable
Source Zone
Select the zone which is to be the source of the data traffic. WAN Values
applies to the wired connection and LAN to the wireless, on all
Nano IP Series units, whether a Master, Repeater, or Remote. WAN
LAN
FW
VPN
all
Destination Zone
Select the zone which is the intended destination of the data traffic. Values
WAN applies to the wired connection and LAN to the wireless, on
all Nano IP Series units, whether a Master, Repeater, or Remote. WAN
LAN
FW
VPN
all
Policy
Select the policy (action) which is to apply. ACCEPT (traffic) is the Values
default. DROP results in a ‘silent’ drop of the traffic whereas
REJECT will result in a message (e.g. ‘destination unreachable) ACCEPT
being sent from the intended destination back to the source. DROP
REJECT
QUEUE>future use
CONTINUE>future use
NONE>future use
Log
If, in the Policy configuration, DROP or REJECT has been selected, Values
this field may be defined as to how to tag associated messages.
No
Emergency
Alert
Critical
Error
Warning
Notice
Information
Debug
Policy Summary
List of current policies. Use the Edit, Delete, Up, Down to modify the polices.
Use Submit to write policies to Nano IP and make active, use the Reset button to revert back to
the policies currently stored in the Nano IP.
Rules take precedence over Policies. They are configured to ‘fine tune’ firewall settings.
Action
Define the action which is to be taken by the defined rule. Values
ACCEPT
ACCEPT+>future
NONAT>future
DROP
REJECT
DNAT
SAME>future
REDIRECT>future
CONTINUE>future
LOG
QUEUE>future
© Microhard Systems Inc. 108
6.0 Configuration
Source Zone
Select the zone which is to be the source of the data traffic. WAN Values
applies to the wired connection and LAN to the wireless, on all
units, whether a Master, Repeater, or Remote. WAN
LAN
FW
VPN
all
Source IP
If a valid IP address is specified, the action will apply against that Values
address; otherwise, leaving the default value of 0.0.0.0 in this field
results in the action applying to all source IP addresses. 0.0.0.0
valid IP address
Destination Zone
Select the zone which is the intended destination of the data traffic. Values
WAN applies to the wired connection and LAN to the wireless, on
all units, whether a Master, Repeater, or Remote. WAN
LAN
FW
VPN
all
Select Service
This field allows for the rule to be applied to either a Custom Values
Service (defined further down the menu) or for one of many
predefined services available via a pull down menu. Custom Service
Destination IP
If a valid IP address is specified, the action will apply against that Values
address; otherwise, leaving the default value of 0.0.0.0 in this field
results in the action applying to all destination IP addresses. 0.0.0.0
valid IP address
Destination Port
This field is configured if defining a Custom Service (ref. Select Values
Service field).
0
Protocol
This field is configured if defining a Custom Service (ref. Select Values
Service field).
TCP
TCP:SYN
UDP
ICMP
IPP2P
IPP2P:UDP
IPP2P:all
All
Comment
This is simply a field where a convenient reference or description Values
may be added to the rule.
Rule 1
descriptive comment
Internal Server IP
Enter the IP address of the intended internal (i.e. on LAN side of IP Values
Series unit configured as a Router) server.
192.168.2.5
valid IP address
Internal Port
Target port number of internal server. Values
0
Protocol
Enter the IP address of the intended internal (i.e. on LAN side of IP Values
Series unit configured as a Router) server.
TCP
TCP:SYN
UDP
ICMP
IPP2P
IPP2P:UDP
IPP2P:all
All
External Port
Port number of incoming request (from WAN-side device). Values
0
Comment
This is simply a field where a convenient reference or description Values
may be added to the rule.
Forward 1
descriptive comment
MAC Address
Specify the MAC Address to be added to the list. Values
00:00:00:00:00:00
Disposition
Determines the action to be taken on data traffic associated with Values
the specified MAC address.
ACCEPT
DROP
REJECT
Interface
Select which interface the defined MAC address is connected to. Values
WAN
LAN
This menu provides a soft button which, when selected, will reset the firewall settings to factory
defaults.
The System Information menu affords a selection of a number of very useful tools for diagnostic
and statistical purposes.
The information accessible via this menu, particularly when accessed on remote units
wirelessly, provides an excellent aid to troubleshooting and network management.
The five selectable System Information options provide information which refreshes
automatically. Detailed statistical and status information about Ethernet Packets, Radio, COM
(1/2) and USB ports can be found in the submenu’s accessed from this screen. If desired, your
browsers’ Refresh button (F5) may be used to initiate a ‘manual’ refresh.
Received and Transmitted information are applicable to the local data traffic into and out of the
IP Series, respectively. Errors which are counted include alignment, frame check sequence
(FCS), frame too long, and internal MAC. The dropped packet count could increment if, for
example, the network layer was too busy to accept the data.
Collisions occur on all ethernet networks being that ethernet operates as a logical bus. The
amount of collisions is typically related to the number of devices on the attached network and
the amount of data being moved.
Radio Information
The Radio Information window provides information related to the ‘radio’ (wireless) portion of the
Nano IP.
Serial Number
Serial number of radio (RF) module within Nano IP.
Version
Firmware version within radio module.
Temperature (C)
Temperature as measured within the radio module.
Voltage (V)
Supply voltage as measured on motherboard.
RSSI (dBm)
Receive Signal Strength Indicator measurement.
The Received and Transmitted bytes and packets indicate the respective amount of data which
has been moved through the radio.
The Error counts reflect those having occurred on the wireless link.
Lost Sync indicates how many times the Nano IP being viewed has lost synchronization with the
Master Nano IP.
The other displayed parameters are not all applicable. Of most use are the transmitted and
received bytes/packets: these will indicate if data is coming into and out of the RS-232 port.
The other displayed parameters are not all applicable. Of most use are the transmitted and
received bytes/packets: these will indicate if data is coming into and out of the COM2 port.
The other displayed parameters are not all applicable. Of most use are the transmitted and
received bytes/packets: these will indicate if data is coming into and out of the USB port.
The Upload button will begin the process. It can take several
minutes to complete.
Image 6AV: System Tools, Radio Channels Noise Level, Mean Value
Hold
Do not refresh currently displayed values.
Clear
Clear current values and take new measurements.
Sleep Mode:
No Sleep: No sleep settings.
Awake Time (s): Defines how long the unit will System Sleep: Shuts down entire unit.
keep awake. If set to 0, the unit will not wakeup Will wakeup on timer and/or activity. Upon
until data is received on the serial or ethernet port. wake up system will restart and re-sync
Valid range in seconds (s) is 0 - 65535. and transmit data in ~60 seconds.
Save: Writes values entered in the boxes above to the Master units memory.
Apply Settings: Writes values in Master units memory to the remote unit.
Reset: Resets values shown in the boxes above to the values stored in the Master unit.
View Unit Sleep Status Only: Retrieves the sleep settings stored on the remote unit.
When the unit is configured as a Master in the Radio Configuration menu, settings for Local
Power Saving will be listed under the System Tools Menu. The Local Power Saving Modes
provide power saving options for when the Master unit is not transmitting or receiving data.
Idle Time
Defined the amount of system idle time required before going Values (seconds)
entering power saving mode cycle.
60
0 - 65535
6.1.10.8 Logout
The Logout menu informs the user how to log out of the Web User Interface, by closing the
current web browser session.
Initial configuration of an Nano IP Series using the Text User Interface (Text UI) method
involves the following steps:
connect the Nano IP’s front panel Diagnostic (COM2) port to an available COM port on your
PC, using a standard RS232 cable.
run a terminal program (e.g. HyperTerminal) for the connected PC COM port, configured for
115200bps, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit. Flow control should be set to ‘none’.
apply power to the Nano IP Series and wait approximately 1 minute for the system to load -
you will observe various text appearing in the terminal program window. Once the Nano IP
has completed its boot up procedure a login prompt will be displayed as seen below:
Enter the default login name (provided it was not changed via the Web User Interface at an
earlier time): admin [Enter]
continued...
Refer to the detailed information within the Web User Interface section (6.1) of this
manual for a detailed explanation of all of the configuration options. All options
presented within the Web UI are available via the Text UI.
There is a PING tool
which may be found via An advantage of using the Text UI as opposed to using the Web UI for configuring the IP Series
the Text UI (System Tools
Menu) which is not is that with the Text UI there is no need to concerned with the unit’s IP address or subnet.
available in the Web UI.
There are some subtle differences in configuring the IP Series using the Text UI. The following
steps pertaining to configuring the Radio portion of the unit will highlight those differences:
Select ‘C’ on the Main Menu to be directed to the Radio Menu (see below):
Select ‘I’ to change the Network Type. The following will appear:
Having selected ‘A’ - Point-to-Multipoint - the Radio Menu appears showing the newly-
selected Network Type:
Press ‘U’ to save and apply the changes, or press ‘V’ to discard them.
As can be seen in the preceding screen captures, the [Esc] key is used to ‘back up’ to the
previous menu.
When at the Main Menu, the ‘Q’ may be used to Quit the Text UI: the IP Series will display the
login prompt.
There are a number of factors to consider when preparing to deploy a radio network, several of
which have been touched-upon or detailed elsewhere within this manual. Following is a listing
of a number of factors, in no particular order:
The installation,
Network Topology
removal, or
maintenance of any Section 5.0 detailed the various network topologies which the Nano IP Series will support. De-
antenna system
components must be termine which topology is suited to your specific requirements.
undertaken only by
qualified and
experienced personnel. Throughput
The Nano IP Series is capable of significant data throughput. The network topology has an ef-
fect on how this available throughput is ‘shared’ between all nodes on the network.
Distance
The physical distance between the Nano IP Series dictates such things as required antenna
performance and heights, and whether or not a Repeater(s) is required. When contemplating
antenna types and Repeater sites, keep in mind the directivity (omnidirectional or directional) of
the antennas, also recall the effect of a Repeater on throughput (see Section 4.4).
Terrain
Along with distance, the terrain is a very important consideration with respect to antenna height
requirements. The term ‘line-of-sight’ (LOS) refers to being able to ‘see’ one location from an-
other - a minimum requirement for a radio signal path. In addition to LOS, adequate clearance
must also be provided to satisfy ‘Fresnel Zone’ requirements - an obstruction-free area much
greater than the physical LOS, i.e. LOS is not enough to completely satisfy RF path require-
ments for a robust communications link.
Transmit Power
Having read thus far through the factors to be considered, it should be clear that they are all in-
terrelated. Transmit power should be set for the minimum required to establish a reliable com-
munications path with adequate fade margin. Required transmit power is dictated primarily by
distance, antenna type (specifically the ‘gain’ of the antennas being used), and the receive sen-
sitivity of the distant IP Series. Cable and connector losses (the physical path from the mo-
dem’s ‘antenna connector’ to the antenna’s connector) must also be taken into account.
Receive Sensitivity
The Nano IP has exceptional receive sensitivity, which can produce a number of benefits, such
as: added fade margin for a given link, being able to use less expensive coaxial cable or an-
tenna types, being able to operate at greater distances for a given distant transmitter power
(perhaps negating the requirement for a Repeater site!). Distance, antenna gain, transmit
power, and receive sensitivity are critical ‘numbers’ for radio path calculations. Fortunately, the
Nano IP Series features the maximum available transmit power combined with exceptional re-
ceive sensitivity - two ‘numbers’ which will produce the most favorable path calculation results.
© Microhard Systems Inc. 135
7.0 Installation
Fade Margin
When all radio path numbers are being considered and hardware assumptions are being made,
another factor to consider is the ‘fade margin’ of the overall system. the fade margin is the dif-
ference between the anticipated receive signal level and the minimum acceptable receive level
(receive sensitivity). Being that the Nano IP Series performs to exacting specifications, the
overall deployment should be such that the modems may be utilized to their full potential to pro-
vide a reliable and robust communications link. A typical desired fade margin is in the order of
20dB, however oftentimes a 10dB fade margin is acceptable.
Frequency
The 900MHz frequency range is not effected by rain to any significant degree, and is also able
to penetrate through foliage and ‘around obstacles’ to a certain degree. This being the case,
some may choose to scrimp on the physical deployment, particularly when it comes to antenna
(tower) heights. Path calculations provide results which specify ‘required’ antenna heights. For
cost savings and in taking advantage of the characteristics of the 900MHz frequency range,
sometimes the height requirements are not adhered to: this may result in unreliable communi-
cations.
Power Requirements
The IP Series accepts a range of DC input voltages (keep in mind that supply current require-
ments must also be met). In some deployments, power consumption is critical. Power con-
sumption for the IP Series may be minimized by reducing the transmit power, given the receive
sensitivity of the distant modem.
Interference
The frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) operation of the IP Series modem most often
allows it to work well in an environment within which there may be sources of inband interfer-
ence. Frequency Restriction is a built-in feature which may be utilized to avoid specific frequen-
cies or ranges of frequencies; the built-in Radio Channels Noise Level tool may be used to iden-
tify areas of potential interference. Cavity filters are also available if required: contact Micro-
hard Systems Inc. for further information.
Assuming adequate antenna heights, a basic formula to determine if an adequate radio signal
path exists (i.e. there is a reasonable fade margin to ensure reliability) is:
FCC regulations allow
for up to 36dBi effective
isotropic radiated power Fade Margin = System Gain - Path Loss
(EIRP). The sum (in
dBm) of the transmitted where all values are expressed in dB.
power, the cabling loss,
and the antenna gain
cannot exceed 36dBi. As discussed on the previous page, a desired fade margin is 20dB.
Assuming a path loss of 113dB for this example, the fade margin = 143-113 = 30dB.
30dB exceeds the desired fade margin of 20dB, therefore this radio communications link would
be very reliable and robust.
On the following page are examples of actual path loss measurements taken in an open rural
environment; the path loss numbers do not apply to urban or non-LOS environments.
Example 7.1.1:
Tx power = 30dBm
Tx antenna gain = 6dBi
System Gain = 30+(6-2)+(3-2)
Tx cable/connector loss = 2dB
+105
Rx antenna gain = 3dBi = 30+4+1+105
Rx cable/connector loss = 2dB = 140dB.
Rx sensitivity = -105dBm
Never work on an
antenna system when
there is lightning in the
area.
7.2.1 Antennas
The two most common types of antenna are the omnidirectional (’omni’) and directional (Yagi).
An omni typically has 3-6dBi gain and spreads its energy in all directions (hence the
name ’omnidirectional’). The ’pattern’ of the energy field is in the shape of a donut, with
the antenna mounted vertically at the centre. This vertical-mounted antenna produces a
signal which is vertically ’polarized’.
A Yagi has a more focused antenna pattern, which results in greater gain: commonly, 6
Direct human contact
-12dBi. The pattern of a Yagi is in the shape of a large raindrop in the direction in which
with the antenna is the antenna is pointed. If the elements of the Yagi are perpendicular to the ground
potentially unhealthy (most common orientation) the radiated signal will be vertically polarized; if parallel to
when a Nano IP is the ground, the polarization is horizontal.
generating RF energy.
Always ensure that the
Nano IP equipment is The network topology, application, and path calculation are all taken into consideration when
powered down (off) selecting the various antenna types to be used in a radio network deployment.
during installation.
In a long-range PTP network, Yagi antennas should be considered. There antennas will provide
for the most focused ‘RF connection’ between the two sites.
In a PMP network where remotes are located in all directions from the Master, the Master site
will have an omni so that it can communicate with all remotes; the remotes, however, may all
employ Yagi antennas ‘pointed at’ the Master.
Typically a Repeater site will employ an omni such that it can readily receive an RF transmission
from one direction and be able to readily transmit it in another.
If an application involves remotes which are not stationary (e.g. mobile application), all sites
would likely use omni antennas so that wherever the units may be, there should be antenna pat-
tern coverage.
The path calculation (see Section 7.1) will determine the antenna gain requirements. Refer to
the beginning of this section to review the various factors which must be considering when de-
To comply with FCC
regulations, the ploying a network. Do not discount the importance of the REQUIRED HEIGHT for the antennas
maximum EIRP must within your network.
not exceed 36dBm.
7.2.2 Coaxial Cable
The following types of coaxial cable are recommended and suitable for most applications
(followed by loss at 900MHz, in dB, per 100 feet):
LMR 195 (10.7)
LMR 400 (3.9)
LMR 600 (2.5)
For a typical application, LMR 400 may be suitable. Where a long cable run is required - and
in particular within networks where there is not a lot of margin available - a cable with lower
loss should be considered.
When installing cable, care must be taken to not physically damage it (be particularly careful
with respect to not kinking it at any time) and to secure it properly. Care must also be taken to
affix the connectors properly - using the proper crimping tools - and to weatherproof them.
The most effective protection against lightning-induced damage is to install two lightning surge
arrestors: one at the antenna, the other at the interface with the equipment. The surge arrestor
grounding system should be fully interconnected with the transmission tower and power
grounding systems to form a single, fully integrated ground circuit.
Typically, both ports on surge arrestors are N-type female.
All installation, 7.2.4 External Filter
maintenance, and
removal work must be
done in accordance Although the Nano IP is capable of filtering-out RF noise in most environments, there are cir-
with applicable codes. cumstances that require external filtering. Paging towers and cellular base stations in close
proximity to the Nano IP antenna can desensitize the receiver. Microhard Systems Inc.’s exter-
nal cavity filter eliminates this problem. The filter has two N-female connectors and should be
connected inline at the interface to the RF equipment.
The DiscoverIP utility can be used to ‘discover’ any Nano IP and/or IP Series units that are
‘reachable’ via the connection made to the PC on which it is running. It will discover units that
are ‘wired’ or have ‘wireless’ connectivity.
Upon launching the application, the following is displayed:
To view the Web User Interface (Web UI) of a particular unit, either (a) highlight the target unit
and click the View WebUI soft button, or (b) double click on the MAC or IP address, or Descrip-
tion of the target unit.
Selecting either method (above) will launch the PC’s web browser to the IP Series Logon win-
dow.
If it would be necessary but is not convenient to change the TCP/IP Properties settings on the
PC note the following:
When received from the factory, the units are configured as DHCP, with an IP Address of
169.254.x.x, and Subnet Mask of 255.255.0.0.
Go to the DOS prompt on the PC and, for each time you connect to an IP Series (with ethernet
cable), enter
(Replace 192.168.1.110 with the IP Address of your PC.)
After the route has been added, you should be able to access the unit’s WebUI logon page as
detailed above.
The following procedure outlines the steps required to recover a IP Nano Series should it need to be com-
pletely reloaded. This procedure will wipe out all configuration settings and return the device to factory de-
fault settings.
1. Download and save the firmware file in a local folder, for example C:\
2. Separate your PC from the your network if attached, and set IP to static
192.168.1.1
255.255.255.0
3. Connect the PC Ethernet port to the Ethernet port of the IP Nano to be recovered
Note, If ping responds as shown above, then you can probably recover the unit, please proceed. Other-
wise, contact Microhard Systems Inc for additional help and/or troubleshooting.
7. Now use TFTP to push firmware file into the corrupted unit:
For example, on Windows XP using following command line
Transfer successful: xxxxxxx bytes in 5 seconds, nnnnnnn bytes/s, note the numbers might change for
different firmware file
Note, if you see message above, the unit will re-flash itself and reboot.
The Nano IP Series can be connected into a 2– or 4-wire RS485 network. A transmission line
termination should be placed only on the extreme ends of the data line if the RS485 network
runs at high speed and the cable run is very long.
2-Wire
Figure C1 illustrates a typical 2-wire RS485 wiring configuration. The cable pair is shared for
both transmit and receive data: it is very important that the Nano IP Series seize control of the
line at the proper time when it is to transmit data.
4-Wire
In a 4-wire network, one node will be the master and all other nodes will be remotes. The
master node may talk to all remote nodes, yet each remote may only communicate with the one
master. Since the remote nodes never ’hear’ each other, a remote node could not conceivably
reply incorrectly to another remote’s communication.
Quarter Wave
MHS031010 <1.5dBi, 900MHz 1/4 Wave Antenna Reverse SMA Right Angle
MHS031020 <1.5dBi, 900MHz 1/4 Wave Antenna Reverse SMA Straight
MHS031030 <1.5dBi, 900MHz 1/4 Wave Antenna Reverse SMA Right Angle MHS
MHS031040 <1.5dBi, 900MHz 1/4 Wave Antenna Reverse SMA Straight MHS
MHS031050 <1.5dBi, 900MHz 1/4 Wave Antenna MCX Right Angle MHS
MHS031060 <1.5dBi, 900MHz 1/4 Wave Antenna Reverse SMA Straight
Rubber Ducky
MHS031000 2dBi, 900MHz Rubber Ducky Antenna RPTNC Swivel
MHS031070 2dBi, 900MHz Rubber Ducky Antenna Reverse SMA Swivel
MHS031080 2dBi, 900MHz Rubber Ducky Antenna Reverse SMA Straight
Transit Antennas
MHS031210 3dBd, 900 MHz Transit Antenna with Ground Plane
MHS031220 3dBd, 900MHz Transit Antenna No Ground Plane
MHS031230 3dBd, 900MHz Transit Antenna Permanent Mount GP
MHS031240 3dBd, 900MHz Transit Antenna Permanent Mount NGP
Mounts for Transit Antennas have a RPTNC Pigtail
Yagi Antennas
MHS031311 6dBd, 900MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Antenex, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031431 6.5dBd, 900MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Bluewave, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031501 9dBd, 900MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Antenex, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031441 10dBd, 900 MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Bluewave, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031451 11dBd, 900 MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Bluewave, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031401 12dBd, 900MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Antenex, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031411 12dBd, 900MHz Yagi Directional Antenna Bluewave, RPTNC Pigtail
Omni Directional
MHS031251 3dBd, 900MHz Omni Directional Antenna Antenex, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031461 3dBd, 900 MHz Omni Directional Antenna Bluewave, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031321 6dBd, 900MHz Omni Directional Antenna Antenex, RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031471 6dBd, 900 MHz Omni Directional Antenna Bluewave, RPTNC Pigtail
WARNING:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Microhard Systems Inc. could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment. This device has been tested with MCX and Reverse
Polarity SMA connectors with the antennas listed in Appendix A When integrated in OEM prod-
ucts, fixed antennas require installation preventing end-users from replacing them with non-
approved antennas. Antennas not listed in the tables must be tested to comply with FCC Section
15.203 (unique antenna connectors) and Section 15.247 (emissions). Please Contact Microhard
Systems Inc. if you need more information.
Rubber Ducky
MHS031100 2dBi, 2.4GHz Rubber Ducky Antenna RPTNC Swivel
MHS031110 2dBi, 2.4GHz Rubber Ducky Antenna Reverse SMA Swivel
MHS031120 2dBi, 2.4GHz Rubber Ducky Antenna Reverse SMA Straight
Patch Antennas
MHS034200 8dBi, 2.4GHz Mini Flat Patch Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034210 14dBi, 2.4GHz Flat Patch Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
Yagi Antennas
MHS034100 9 dBi, 2.4GHz Yagi Directional RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034110 12 dBi, 2.4GHz Yagi Directional RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034120 14 dBi, 2.4GHz Yagi Directional RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034150 14.5 dBi, 2.4GHz Yagi Directional RPTNC Pigtail
Omni Directional
MHS031260 5 dBi, 2.4GHz Omni Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034000 6 dBi, 2.4GHz Omni Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
MHS031340 8 dBi, 2.4GHz Omni Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034020 10.5 dBi, 2.4GHz Omni Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034030 12 dBi, 2.4GHz Omni Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
MHS034040 15 dBi, 2.4GHz Omni Directional Antenna RPTNC Pigtail
WARNING:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Microhard Systems Inc. could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment. This device has been tested with MCX and Reverse
Polarity SMA connectors with the antennas listed in Appendix A When integrated in OEM prod-
ucts, fixed antennas require installation preventing end-users from replacing them with non-
approved antennas. Antennas not listed in the tables must be tested to comply with FCC Section
15.203 (unique antenna connectors) and Section 15.247 (emissions). Please Contact Microhard
Systems Inc. if you need more information.
Module Host
(DCE) Microprocessor Arrows denote the direction that signals are asserted (e.g., DCD
Signal (DTE) originates at the DCE, informing the DTE that a carrier is present).
1 DCD IN The interface conforms to standard RS-232 signals without level shifting,
so direct connection to a host microprocessor is possible.
2 RX IN
3 TX OUT
4 DTR OUT
5 SG
6 DSR IN
7 RTS OUT
8 CTS IN The signals in the asynchronous serial interface are described below:
DCD Data Carrier Detect - Output from Module - When asserted (TTL low), DCD informs the DTE that a
communications link has been established with another MHX 920A.
RX Receive Data - Output from Module - Signals transferred from the MHX 920A are received by the DTE
via RX.
TX Transmit Data - Input to Module - Signals are transmitted from the DTE via TX to the MHX 920A.
DTR Data Terminal Ready - Input to Module - Asserted (TTL low) by the DTE to inform the module that it is
alive and ready for communications.
SG Signal Ground - Provides a ground reference for all signals transmitted by both DTE and DCE.
DSR Data Set Ready - Output from Module - Asserted (TTL low) by the DCE to inform the DTE that it is alive
and ready for communications. DSR is the module’s equivalent of the DTR signal.
RTS Request to Send - Input to Module - A “handshaking” signal which is asserted by the DTE (TTL low)
when it is ready. When hardware handshaking is used, the RTS signal indicates to the DCE that the host
can receive data.
CTS Clear to Send - Output from Module - A “handshaking” signal which is asserted by the DCE (TTL low)
when it has enabled communications and transmission from the DTE can commence. When hardware
handshaking is used, the CTS signal indicates to the host that the DCE can receive data.
Notes: It is typical to refer to RX and TX from the perspective of the DTE. This should be kept in mind when
looking at signals relative to the module (DCE); the module transmits data on the RX line, and receives
on TX.
“DCE” and “module” are often synonymous since a module is typically a DCE device.
“DTE” is, in most applications, a device such as a host microprocessor.
R13 = 1K
R15 = 2K