RPC-4840N
Network Ready Remote Power Controller
User's Guide
Warnings and Cautions:
No Serviceable Parts Inside;
Authorized Service Personnel Only
Do not attempt to repair or service this device yourself. Internal
components must be serviced by authorized personnel only.
• Shock Hazard - Do Not Enter
Nameplate Power Warning
This device should only be operated with the type of power
source indicated on the instrument nameplate. If you are not
sure of the type of power service available, consult your local
power company.
• Connect unit only to a properly measured supply. Use
only three wire cord which is provided with the unit.
• Reliable earthing of this equipment must be maintained.
Particular attention should be given to supply
connections when connecting to power strips, rather than
direct connections to the branch circuit.
Rack Mount Installation
When installing this device in an instrument rack, the following
factors must be accounted for:
1. Enclosed Racks: Enclosed racks must provide adequate
ventilation. Make certain that the rack is not overly
crowded and note that each unit in the rack generates its
own heat. An enclosed rack should have louvered sides
and a fan to circulate cooling air.
When mounting the unit in an enclosed rack with a
ventilation fan at the top of the rack, note that excessive
heat generated by devices at the bottom of the rack can be
drawn upward and into the ventilation slots of units
located at the top. Make certain to provide adequate
ventilation for equipment installed at the bottom of
the rack.
(Continued)
Rack Mount Installation (Continued)
1. Enclosed Racks (Continued):
The ambient within the rack may be greater than room
ambient. Installation should be such that the amount of air
flow required for safe operation is not compromised. The
maximum temperature for the equipment in this
environment is 45°C. Consideration should be given to the
maximum rated ambient.
Installation should be such that a hazardous stability
condition is not achieved due to uneven loading.
2. Open Racks: Make certain that the rack frame does not
block the ventilation slots on the instrument cover. If the
device is installed on sliders, check the unit when seated
all the way into the rack to make certain that ventilation
slots are not blocked.
Ventilation
Slots in the instrument cover are provided to allow ventilation
for heat dissipation. To ensure safe, reliable operation, these
openings must not be covered or blocked.
Disconnect Power
If any of the following events are noted, immediately disconnect
the unit from the power source and contact qualified service
personnel:
1. If the power cord becomes frayed or damaged.
2. If liquid has been spilled into the device or if the device
has been exposed to rain or water.
Table of Contents
List of Figures
1. Introduction
Network equipment sometimes "locks-up", requiring a service
call just to flip the power switch to perform a simple reboot. The
RPC-4840N Heavy Duty Remote Power Controller gives you the
ability to reboot DC powered equipment from anywhere on the
LAN/WAN, or if the network is down, to simply dial-in from a
modem for out-of-band power control.
Intelligent Power Control
The RPC-4840N can communicate over any TCP/IP network
using standard Telnet, or out-of-band using an external modem
and terminal emulation. Each DC circuit can be assigned an
individual password, device name, reboot delay time and unique
power-up default status.
Security
Address specific IP security masks prevent unauthorized users
from accessing the RPC command menu via network. The RPC
provides two separate password security levels; System level and
User level. The System password allows access to all
configuration and command functions. The User password
allows limited access to command functions.
Easy to Use, Easy to Configure
The RPC-4840N can be configured over the network, via modem,
or locally via the RPC Console Port. Easy-to-use commands let
you assign a location name, set system parameters and view
circuit status. Circuits can be switched On, Off, or Booted using
circuit numbers or user-defined names.
Heavy Duty DC Power Control
The RPC-4840N can control up to 40 amps of DC power per
circuit. Since larger routers require as much as 30 amps, the
RPC has power control to spare. The optional second Circuit
Module allows the RPC to control power for two 40 amp, DC
powered instruments.
Features:
· Dual 40 Amp Circuits
· On/Off/Reboot Switching
· Integral 10Base-T Interface
· RS232 Modem and Console Ports
· Circuit-Specific Password Security
· Network Security Features
· Manual On/Off Buttons
Typographic Conventions
Throughout this manual, typefaces and characters have been used
to denote the following:
COURIER FONT Indicates characters typed on the keyboard.
For example, /ON 1 or /OFF 2.
[Bold Font]
Text set in bold face and enclosed in
square brackets indicates a specific key.
For example, [Enter] or [Esc].
2. Unit Description
2.1. Front Panel
As shown in Figure 2.1, the RPC-4840N front panel includes a
series of LED indicators which function as follows:
ON: Lights when Power is applied to the Control Section.
À
Á
RDY: Flashes when the RPC-4840N is ready to receive
commands. Indicates that the Console Port has received
the "Ready" signal from the control device.
RXD: Lights when the RPC-4840N receives commands.
Â
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Circuit 1 Indicator: Lights when the Circuit 1 Switch is
closed (Power ON to connected device.)
Circuit 2 Indicator: Lights when the optional Circuit 2
Switch is closed (Power ON to connected device.)
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2.2. Back Panel
Network Port and Activity Indicator: A 10BaseT, RJ45
À
Ethernet port for connection to your TCP/IP network. To
communicate via network, you must first specify network
parameters as described in Section 5.6.
Note: The RPC-4840N features a 10BaseT interface.
When connecting the RPC to a 100BaseT interface, note
that most 100BaseT router switches will autosense to
determine if the device is 100BaseT or 10BaseT and then
configure the network interface accordingly. If your router
switch does not autosense, then the network interface port
must be manually set to 10BaseT.
Options Switch: Four DIP Switches which set the default
baud rate, boot delay, echo mode, and timeout.
Á
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Æ
Default Button: Used in conjunction with the Reset
Button to reset the unit to defaults (see Section 4.3.)
Console Port: A Male RS-232, DB9 Connector, DTE
configuration. For connection to a local PC.
Modem Port: A Male RS-232, DB9 Connector, DTE
configuration. For connection to an external modem.
Reset Button: Used in conjunction with the Default
Button to reset the unit to defaults (see Section 4.3.)
Circuit Module 1: For connection to your DC power
supply and DC powered device. Each circuit is capable of
switching up to 40 Amps. Note that power for control
functions is also derived from the Circuit 1 input terminal.
A. ON Indicator: Lights when the corresponding Circuit
Module is switched On (switch closed).
B. Emergency Override Breaker: If the circuit is
overloaded, the breaker pops out and opens the circuit.
If necessary the Override Breaker can also be manually
pulled out to open the circuit. To reset the circuit,
press the Override Breaker in.
Circuit Module 2 (Optional): For connection to a second
DC power supply and DC powered device. Same as
Circuit Module 1.
Ç
3. Quick Start Guide
This section provides a brief overview of basic RPC-4840N
capabilities, and describes a simple test that can be performed to
determine if the unit is operating properly and demonstrate basic
communication capabilities.
Note that this Quick Start procedure is included only to provide a
quick demonstration of basic RPC-4840N capabilities. In order
to take full advantage of the complete range of features provided
by this unit, it is strongly recommended that you should complete
the entire Installation and Configuration sections after
completing the Quick Start procedure.
1. Apply Power to the RPC-4840N: Connect an appropriate
power source to the input terminals on the Circuit 1
terminal block, located on the RPC back panel. Prior to
connecting the unit to your power supply, make certain to
review the safety precautions listed at the beginning of this
User's Guide.
2. Connect a PC to the RPC-4840N: Attach a standard null
modem cable from your PC COM port to the Console Port
connector on the RPC back panel. For a description of the
port interface, please refer to Appendix A.
Note: When the RPC is shipped from the factory,
Console Port communication parameters are set as
follows: 9600 bps, 8 Data Bits, One Stop Bit, No
Parity. Although the RPC allows these parameters
to be easily redefined, for this Quick Start
procedure, it is recommended that you configure
your communications program to accept the default
parameters.
3. Access the Command Mode: Start your communications
program and then press [Enter]; the System Help Screen
should be displayed (Figure 3.1) and the "RPC>" command
prompt should appear. For more information on command
mode access, please refer to Section 5.2.
4. Configure Network Port: In order to communicate with
the RPC-4840N via the Network Port, you must first
define the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway
Address. At the RPC> command prompt, type /N and
press [Enter] to display the Network Parameters menu.
a) Settings for network parameters will depend on the
configuration of your individual network. Please
contact your network administrator to determine
appropriate settings for the IP Address, Subnet Mask,
and Gateway Address.
b) To assign network parameters, key in the number for
the desired parameter, press [Enter], and then follow
the instructions in the resulting submenu. For
example, to define the IP Address, type 1 and
press [Enter].
5. Exit Command Mode: When you have finished setting
Network Parameters, type /X and press [Enter] to exit the
command mode at the Console Port.
Note: Only one port may access the command
mode at a given time. In order to allow access to the
RPC unit via other ports, always exit from the
command mode when finished communicating with
the unit.
6. Connect Network Cable: Connect your network interface
to the RPC-4840N Network Port. The Network Port is an
RJ45, 10BaseT Ethernet jack, for connection to a TCP/IP
network.
Note: The RPC features a 10BaseT Interface.
When connecting to a 100BaseT interface, note that
most router switches will autosense to determine if
the device is 100BaseT or 10BaseT, and then
configure the network interface accordingly. If your
router switch does not autosense, then the network
interface port must be manually set to 10BaseT.
7. Network Access: Telnet to the RPC's IP address. For
example, if the IP address is "119.1.1.1", on a UNIX
system the Telnet command would be invoked as follows:
$ telnet 119.1.1.1 [Enter]
After the Telnet connection is established, the RPC should
display the System Help Screen and the RPC> command
prompt should appear, indicating that you have
successfully accessed the RPC Command Mode via the
Network Port.
8. Test Boot Commands: When the RPC-4840N is powered
up, both switched circuits will be set in the ON (closed)
position. In order to test for proper operation, you may
wish to perform the following test. Note that it is not
necessary to connect a device to either switched circuit in
order to perform this test.
a) Reboot Circuits: To initiate a boot cycle at both
circuits, go to the RPC> command prompt, type
/BOOT * and press [Enter]. Power to both circuits
will be switched OFF. After the Boot Delay Period
(Default = 5 Seconds), the power to both circuits will
then be automatically switched back ON. Note that the
Circuit Status Indicators on the RPC front panel will
also switch Off and On.
b) Switch Circuits OFF: To switch both circuits OFF, go
to the RPC> command prompt, type /OFF * and then
press [Enter]. Power to both circuits will be switched
OFF. Note that the Circuit Status Indicators will also
be switched Off.
c) Switch Circuits ON: To switch both circuits ON, go
to the RPC> command prompt, type /ON * and then
press [Enter]. Power to both circuits will be switched
ON. Note that the Circuit Status Indicators will also be
switched On.
9. Exit Command Mode: Type /X and press [Enter] to exit
from the RPC Command Mode, or disconnect using your
Telnet program.
This completes the introductory overview of the RPC-4840N.
Prior to installing and operating the unit, please review the
remainder of this User's Guide for important information
regarding safety considerations, as well as more detailed
installation, configuration, and operation instructions.
4. Installation
4.1. Power Connection
Connect your DC power supply to the Circuit 1 Input Terminals
as shown in Figure 4.1. Connect the power supply lines from
your DC Powered device to the Output Terminals. Note that the
RPC-4840N is available with two separate 40 amp circuits. In
order for both circuits to function, power must be connected to
both input connectors on the unit's back panel.
CAUTIONS:
This device should only be operated with the
•
type of power source indicated on the
instrument nameplate. If you are not sure of the
type of power service available, please contact
your local power company.
Reliable earthing (grounding) of this unit must
•
be maintained. Particular attention should be
given to supply connections when connecting to
power strips, rather than directly to the branch
circuit.
"Always On" Architecture: The RPC features "Always On"
architecture. This means that once the RPC is connected to your
power supply, both circuits will always be set in the ON state,
unless program commands are used to set the circuit(s) to
the OFF state.
Note: In addition to supplying power to the device
connected to Circuit 1, the Circuit 1 power input
also provides power for the RPC control section.
4.2. Option Switches
The Option Switches select default settings for the Baud Rate,
Command Echo, Boot Delay and Disconnect Timeout. Default
settings selected via the Option Switches will be used when the
unit is reset to default parameters as described in Section 4.3.
Notes:
• Although the Option Switches select default
settings for these features, the RPC-4840N
configuration menus can also be used to select
operating parameters as described in Section 5.
• If Option Switch settings are changed, the new
settings will not be applied until the unit is reset
as described in Section 4.3.
Option Switch settings are described below:
Baud Rate: The default baud rate for both the Console Port and
Modem Port.
Boot Delay: The default Boot Delay setting. When a boot cycle
is initiated, the Boot Delay determines the length of time each
switched circuit will remain off until power is restored.
Command Echo: The default setting for the Command Echo for
the Console Port, Modem Port and Network Port. When
enabled, commands entered at your keyboard will be sent to
the RPC and echoed back to your display monitor.
Disconnect Timeout: The default Disconnect Timeout value.
This determines how long the RPC will wait for additional
commands before automatically disconnecting. Note that
when the RPC times out, DTR will drop, and the modem
disconnect and initialize strings will be sent.
Switch Function
Up
Down
* = Factory Setting
4.3. Reset Unit to Defaults
If Option Switch settings are changed, the new settings will not
be applied until the unit is reset to default settings. There are
two ways to reset the unit to defaults:
Note: When these reset procedures are performed,
all user selected parameters, including passwords
and circuit names will be lost. Prior to performing
these reset procedures, it is strongly recommended
to save configuration parameters to an ASCII text
file as described in Section 7.
4.3.1.
Default Button / Reset Button (Local)
Typically, this method is used when you have immediate access
to the installation site.
1. Simultaneously press the DEFAULT and RESET buttons,
located on the RPC Back Panel.
2. Release the RESET button, wait for approximately five
seconds, and then release the DEFAULT button.
4.3.2.
Default Parameters Option
To reset the unit to default parameters using the General
Parameters Menu's "Default Parameters" option, proceed
as follows. Note that this method requires that you have already
connected a local or remote PC to the unit and have accessed the
command mode.
1. Access the RPC Command Mode (see Section 6.1).
2. At the RPC> command prompt, type /G and press [Enter].
The General Parameters menu will appear.
3. From the General Parameters menu, type A and press
[Enter]. If command confirmation is enabled, the unit
will display a "Sure?" prompt. Type Y and press [Enter]
to proceed with the reset procedure. After a brief pause,
parameters will be reset to default values.
Note: If the Default Parameters function is invoked
via the Network Port, the IP Address will not be
reset. If this function is invoked via the Console
Port or Modem Port, the IP Address will be reset.
4.4. Console Port Connection
The Console Port is a male, DB9 connector, wired in a DTE
configuration (similar to an AT style computer), which is used
for connection to a local PC or control device. Appendix A
describes the Console Port interface.
4.5. Connecting an External Modem
When connecting directly to an external modem, use a standard
DB9 AT to Modem cable. Section 5.4 describes the procedure
for defining the modem command strings. Appendix A describes
the modem port interface.
4.6. Connecting the Network Cable
The Network Port is an RJ45 Ethernet jack, for connection to a
TCP/IP network. Connect your 10Base-T cable to the Network
Port. Before attempting to access the unit via network, please
assign the IP Address, Gateway Address and Subnet Mask as
described in Section 5.6.
Note: The RPC features a 10BaseT interface.
When connecting the RPC to a 100BaseT interface,
note that most router switches will autosense to
determine if the device is 100BaseT or 10BaseT and
then configure the network interface accordingly. If
your router switch does not auto-configure for
10BaseT vs. 100BaseT, then the network interface
port must be manually set to 10BaseT.
5. Configuration
5.1. System Mode and User Mode
In order to restrict access to sensitive command functions, the
RPC-4840N features two separate operating modes; System
Mode and User Mode.
The System Mode allows access to all configuration menus,
command functions and status screens. When the System Mode
is active, Boot/On/Off commands can always be directed to
either of the two switched circuits, even if each circuit has been
assigned a separate password. The System Mode Status Screen
shows On/Off conditions for both switched circuits, and lists
currently defined system parameters.
The User Mode allows limited access to command functions and
status screens; users are not allowed to access configuration
menus. When the User Mode is active, Boot/On/Off commands
can only be directed to the specific circuit(s) allowed by the User
Password entered at login. If a different User Password is
assigned to each RPC circuit, then a user who accesses the RPC
using the password for Circuit 1 is not allowed to boot or switch
Circuit 2. On the other hand, if the same User Password is
assigned to both circuits, then that user will be able to direct
commands to both circuits. The User Mode Status Screen only
shows conditions at the circuit(s) owned by the User Password;
system parameters are not displayed.
When properly configured, the RPC will display a password
prompt when the unit is contacted via the Console Port, Modem
Port or Network Port. The password entered at this prompt
determines whether the unit will start-up in System Mode or User
Mode. If the System Password (defined via the General
Parameters menu) is entered, the System Mode will be active. If
the User Password (defined via the circuit Configuration Menus)
is entered, the User Mode will be active.
If the System Password is not defined, the RPC will not display
the password prompt, and will always start-up in System Mode.
Once the System Password has been defined, individual users can
be granted access by assigning passwords to the two switched
circuits as described in Section 5.5.
5.2. Communicating with the RPC-4840N
In order to configure the unit or invoke command functions, the
user must first connect to the RPC-4840N and access the
command mode.
1. The RPC is transparent to parity and will accept 7 or 8 bit
characters, but will always answer back at 8 bits, no parity.
Make certain your communication program (e.g.
HyperTerminal or ProComm) is set for the appropriate
baud rate, bits and parity.
a) Via Modem: Start your communications program.
Dial the external modem connected to the RPC. Wait
for the Connect message and proceed to Step 2.
b) Via Local PC: Start your communications program
and then press [Enter].
c) Via Network: During initial configuration, the RPC
cannot be accessed via the Network Port. After
network parameters have been defined (see
Section 5.6), the unit may then be accessed via network
as described in Section 6.1.
Note: Only one port can access the command mode
at a given time. When communicating via the
Console Port or Modem Port, always make certain to
disconnect (using the /X command) when you have
finished. If the Console Port or Modem Port are
busy, you will not be able to access the command
mode via the Network Port. For more information,
please refer to Section 6.7.
2. Password: If the System Password has been defined, the
unit will display the Password Prompt. Key in either the
System Password or User Password, and press [Enter]. If
the system password has not been defined, the prompt will
not be displayed. Note that the Password feature is case
sensitive.
3. If the System Password is entered, the RPC will display
the System Help Screen (Figure 5.1). If the User Password
is entered, the User Help Screen (Figure 5.2) will be
displayed.
5.3. Command/Menu Conventions
When invoking RPC-4840N commands and selecting items from
configuration menus, note the following:
· To display the Help Screen, type /H [Enter].
· All RPC commands can be invoked at the RPC> command
prompt, or from the General Parameters Menu, Port
Parameters Menus or Network Parameters Menu.
· RPC commands are not case sensitive.
· All commands are invoked by pressing [Enter].
· To select an item from a menu, key in the number for the
item and press [Enter]. To exit from a menu, press [Esc] at
any time. Parameters defined up to that point will be saved.
· The ",Y" option can temporarily suppress the "Sure?"
confirmation prompt. The ",Y" option is entered at the end
of the command line, immediately following the command
or argument. For example, to reset the network port without
displaying the "Sure?" prompt, type /T,Y [Enter].
5.4. Defining General Parameters
When the "RPC>" prompt appears, type /G [Enter] to display
the General Parameters menu (Figure 5.3). Note that this menu
is not available in User Mode. The General Parameters menu
offers the following options:
1. System Password: (Up to 16 characters, case-sensitive)
When the System Password is defined, the RPC will
display a prompt before allowing access to command
mode. If the System Password is entered, the RPC will
start-up in System Mode. To define the System Password,
type 1 and press [Enter]. (Default = undefined).
Note: If the System Password is not defined, the
password prompt will not be displayed, and the RPC
will always start-up in System Mode.
2. Site ID: Defines a text string (up to 32 characters) that is
often used to indicate the installation site. To define the
Site ID, type 2 and press [Enter]. (Default = undefined).
3. Modem Initialization String: To define the Modem
Initialization String (up to 32 characters), type 3 and
press [Enter]. For more information on the initialization
string, please refer to the user's guide for your external
modem. Make certain that the modem is set to auto-
answer in one ring. (Default = ATE0M0Q1&C1&D2S0=1).
4. Modem Disconnect String: To define the Disconnect
String (up to 32 characters), type 4 press [Enter], and
follow the instructions in the submenu. For more
information, please refer to the user's guide for your
external modem. (Default = undefined).
5. Baud Rate: To select the baud rate for the Modem Port
and Console Port, type 5 press [Enter], and follow the
instructions in the submenu. Make certain to select a rate
that is compatible with the external modem, and/or the
device connected to the Console Port. (Default value
determined by Option Switch 1; Factory Setting = 9600).
Note: When this setting is changed, the new baud
rate will not be applied until the user exits and then
re-enters the RPC Command Mode.
6. Command Echo: Enables/Disables the command echo.
When enabled, commands sent to the RPC will be echoed
back to your PC, allowing keystrokes to be displayed . To
enable/disable the echo, type 6, press [Enter] and follow
the instructions in the submenu. (Default determined by
Option Switch 3; Factory Setting = Disabled).
7. Disconnect Timeout: Determines how long the RPC will
wait for additional commands. Type 7, press [Enter], and
follow the instructions in the submenu. (Default
determined by Option Switch 4; Factory Setting = 2 Min.).
Note: It is recommended that the Disconnect
Timeout should be set at the lowest acceptable
value. Since only one port is allowed to access the
command mode at a given time, shorter timeout
values will decrease the chance of other users being
shut out of command mode if a user fails to
disconnect when finished communicating with
the unit.
8. Command Confirmation: When enabled, the RPC will
display a "Sure?" prompt before completing the /T, /X, /R,
/BOOT, /ON, /OFF, /D and "A" commands, and will also
display the System Status screen after commands are
successfully completed. When disabled, the "Sure?"
prompt is suppressed, and the Status Screen is not sent
when commands are completed. (Default = Enabled).
9. Automated Mode: When enabled, the RPC-4840N will
execute the /ON, /OFF, /BOOT, /D, and /X commands
without displaying the confirmation prompt, status screen,
or confirmation messages. This allows the RPC to be
controlled by a device that generates commands to control
power switching without human interaction. For more
information, please refer to Section 6.5.
(Default = Off).
Note: When this option is enabled, password
security functions are disabled, and users are able to
access System Level menus and control both circuits
without entering a password.
A. Default Parameters: Resets the RPC to the default values
specified by the Option Switches. In addition, all menu
selected parameters, including circuit names and
passwords, will be lost. If Command Confirmation is
disabled, the "Sure?" prompt will not be sent.
Note: If the Default Parameters function is invoked
via the Network Port, the IP Address is not reset. If
this function is invoked via the Console Port or
Modem Port, the IP Address will be reset.
After defining the General Parameters, press [Esc] to exit from
the General Parameters menu.
5.5. Circuit Parameters
The Circuit Parameters menus are used to assign names and
select parameters for each of the two switched circuits. There is
a separate Parameters menu for each circuit. Note that the
Circuit Parameters menus are not available in User Mode.
In addition to selecting parameters for each circuit, the Circuit
Parameters menus also allow you to assign an individual User
Password to each circuit. If the same User Password is assigned
to both circuits, then that password will allow the user to direct
Boot/On/Off commands to both circuits. If a different password
is assigned to each circuit, then each password will only allow
access to it's corresponding circuit module.
To access the Circuit Parameters menus from the RPC> prompt,
type /P n and press [Enter] where n is the number or name of
one of the two switched circuits. The Circuit Parameters menu
(Figure 5.4) offers the following options:
1. Circuit Name: (Up to 16 Characters) Assigns a name to
the circuit. Typically, this name describes the piece of
equipment that is connected to the switched circuit. When
circuit names are assigned, Boot/On/Off commands can be
invoked using the name or number of the desired circuit.
(Default = undefined).
2. Password: (Up to 16 Characters) Assigns a User
Password to this circuit. When a User Password is
assigned, the circuit is then "owned" by that password.
When a User Password is entered at login, the user will
have access to only the circuit(s) which are owned by this
password. (Default = undefined).
Notes:
· If you wish to allow a single user to access both
switched circuits, assign the same User Password
to both circuits.
· If the System Password is defined, and the circuit's
User Password is not defined, then the System
Password will "own" this circuit, and only the
System Mode will be able to control the circuit.
3. Boot Delay: During a Boot cycle, the circuit is first
switched off and then switched back on. The Boot Delay
is the length of time which elapses between the time when
power is switched off and the time that power is restored.
The Boot Delay can be 1, 5, 10, 15, 30 or 60 seconds.
(Default determined by Option Switch 2; Factory Setting =
5 Seconds).
4. Power-Up Default: Determines how this circuit will react
when the /D (default) command is invoked, or after a
power interruption. Each circuit can be automatically
switched On or Off as specified by the Power-Up Default.
(Default = On).
After Circuit Parameters have been defined, press [Esc] to exit
from the Circuit Parameters menu.
5.6. Network Parameters
In order to communicate with the RPC-4840N via network, the
IP Address, Subnet Mask and Gateway Address must first be
defined using the Network Parameters menu. If desired, this
menu also allows you to implement IP Security features, which
restrict command mode access based on the user's IP Address.
Settings for network parameters depend upon the configuration
of your individual network. Please contact your network
administrator for appropriate settings, and then assign parameters
as described in this section.
To access the Network Parameters menu (Figure 5.5), type /N
and press [Enter]. Note that this menu is not available in User
Mode. The following options are available:
1. IP Address: Defines the IP Address for the RPC-4840N
unit. Type 1 press [Enter], and follow the instructions in
the submenu. (Default = undefined)
2. Subnet Mask: Defines the Subnet Mask for the RPC unit.
Type 2 press [Enter], and follow the instructions in the
submenu. (Default = undefined)
3. Gateway Address: Defines the Gateway Address for the
RPC. Type 3 press [Enter], and follow the instructions in
the submenu. (Default = undefined)
4. IP Security: Sets up the IP Security feature as described
in Section 5.6.1.
5. Mac Address: Displays the unit's MAC Address. Note
that this item is not used to redefine the MAC Address.
5.6.1.
Implementing IP Security
The RPC-4840N can be configured to restrict unauthorized IP
addresses from Telneting to the unit. This allows the user to
grant Telnet access to only a specific group of IP addresses, or
block a particular IP address from gaining access. In the default
state, the RPC accepts incoming IP connections from all hosts.
To configure the IP Security feature, proceed as follows:
1. Access the Network Parameters menu as described in
Section 5.6. Note that the Network Parameters menu is
not available in User Mode.
2. When the Network Parameters menu appears, type 4 and
press [Enter] to access the IP Security menu (Figure 5.6).
3. The IP Security menu lists five IP Security "masks" along
with the selected permit/deny action for each mask.
a) Each Security Mask prompt is used to define a specific
IP address or range of IP addresses. Each Mask Action
prompt is used to define the permit/deny action for the
corresponding Mask.
b) Masks are listed in order of ascending priority; Mask 1
has the lowest priority, Mask 5 has the highest priority.
c) Masks have a cumulative effect; high priority masks
supersede the effect of lower priority masks.
d) Each IP Address consists of a series of four eight bit
numbers. The number 255 is used as a wild card.
Example 1: Deny access to all hosts except 192.1.1.5:
Since 255 is a wild card, Mask #1 blocks all IP Addresses. Mask
#2 then specifically grants access to 192.1.1.5 only.
Example 2: Allow access only by addresses that begin with 192.
Since 255 is a wild card, Mask 1 blocks all IP addresses. Mask 2
then grants access to all addresses that begin with 192.
Example 3: Allow access only by addresses that begin with 192,
deny access to 192.1.1.5.
Since 255 is a wild card, Mask 1 blocks all IP addresses. Mask 2
then grants access to all addresses that begin with 192. Finally,
Mask 3 specifically blocks access by 192.1.1.5.
Note:
· Mask #5 has priority over the other four masks. If
Mask #5 is set to deny access by
"255.255.255.255" (all wild cards), all IP
Addresses will be blocked, and you will not be able
to access the RPC-4840N Command Mode via
network. Access will only be allowed via the
Console Port or Modem Port.
· When using the wild card address
"255.255.255.255" to block access by all IP
Addresses, make certain that at least one higher
priority mask permits access by your IP address.
5.7. Save Configuration Parameters
After the unit has been completely configured, it is recommended
to save parameters to an ASCII file as described in Section 7.
This allows quick recovery in the event that the unit is reset to
default parameters, or the configuration is accidentally deleted or
altered.
6. Operation
6.1. Access the Command Mode
Commands can be sent to the RPC-4840N via Network or
modem, or from a local PC connected to the Console Port. To
access the Command Mode, proceed as follows:
Note: Only one port can access command mode at a
given time. When you have finished communicating
with the unit, always make certain to disconnect
using the /X command. When the Console Port or
Modem Port are busy, you will not be able to access
the command mode via the Network Port. For more
information, please refer to Section 6.7.
1. Contact the RPC-4840N:
a) Via Network: Telnet to the RPC unit's IP Address.
For example, if the IP Address is 192.1.1.1, on a UNIX
system the Telnet command would be as follows:
$ telnet 192.1.1.1 [Enter]
Notes:
· In order to contact the RPC via telnet, you must
first define the unit's Network Parameters as
described in Section 5.6.
· If the Telnet connection to the RPC is refused, this
may mean that the unit is busy, or that the IP
Security feature has denied the connection.
b) Via Modem: Start your communications program (e.g.
HyperTerminal). Dial the external modem connected
to the RPC, then wait for the Connect Message.
c) Via Console Port: Start your communications
program and press [Enter].
2. Password: If the System password has been defined, a
prompt will be displayed. Key in your System or User
Password, and press [Enter].
3. Disconnect: To end the session, type /X and press
[Enter] (or disconnect using Telnet software).
6.2. Displaying circuit Status
The Status Screen displays the On/Off state and selected
parameters for the switched circuits. To display the Status
Screen, type /S and press [Enter]. Note that although the /S
command is available in both User and System Mode, the System
Status Screen includes more information than the User Status
Screen.
When the System Mode is active, the /S command will produce
the screen shown in Figure 6.1, which lists status and parameters
for both circuits, along with Console Port parameters, and
modem command strings. Note that in System Mode, the /S
command will also accept an argument which will display the
User Password for each circuit. To display circuit passwords,
access the System Mode, type /SP and press [Enter].
When the User Mode is active, the /S command produces a
different version of the status screen, which lists the status and
parameters only for the circuit(s) owned by the User password
entered at login. If a separate User Password is assigned to the
other circuit, the User Mode Status Screen will not list the status
for that circuit. In User mode, passwords cannot be displayed.
6.3. Boot/On/Off Commands
These commands are used to Boot or toggle the On/Off status of
the RPC-4840N's two switched circuits. If the same password
has been applied to both circuits, commands can be directed to
Circuit 1, Circuit 2, or both circuits. If a separate User Password
has been assigned to each circuit, then commands can only be
applied to the circuit that is owned by the User Password entered
at log in. Circuits may be specified by name or number.
Notes:
· When User Mode is active, commands will only be
applied to circuits owned by the User's password.
· To apply a command to both circuits, enter an
asterisk (*) in place of the circuit number or name.
Commands can only be applied to both circuits
when the unit is operating in System Mode, or
when both circuits are owned by the same
User Password.
· When commands are applied to both circuits, the
RPC will delay for approximately 1 second
between actions. For example, when switching
both circuits On, the RPC will switch Circuit 1 On,
delay one second, then switch Circuit 2 On.
· Wait for the "RPC>" prompt to appear before
entering commands. The prompt will not reappear
until the previous command is complete.
· Commands are not case sensitive. All commands
are invoked by pressing [Enter].
· If command confirmation is enabled, the RPC will
display the Status Screen after the Boot/On/Off
commands are successfully completed.
1. Boot Circuit(s): To initiate a Boot cycle, type /BOOT n
and press [Enter]. Where "n" is a the number or name of
the desired circuit. Note that the "/BOOT" command can
also be entered as "/BO".
Examples:
· To boot both circuits, type /BOOT * or /BO * and then
press [Enter].
· To boot Circuit 1, type /BOOT 1 or /BO 1 and then
press [Enter].
2. Switch Circuit(s) On: To power-on a circuit, type /ON n
and press [Enter]. Where "n" is the number or name of
the desired circuit.
Examples:
· To power-on both circuits, type /ON * and
press [Enter].
· To power-on Circuit 1, type /ON 1 and press [Enter].
3. Switch Circuit(s) Off: To power-off a circuit, type /OFF
n and press [Enter]. Where "n" is the number or name of
the desired circuit. Note that the "/OFF" command can
also be entered as "/OF".
Examples:
· To power-off both circuits, type /OFF * or /OF * and
press [Enter].
· To power-off a circuit named POWER2, type
/OFF POWER2 or /OF POWER2 and press [Enter].
4. Suppress Command Confirmation Prompt: To execute a
Boot/On/Off command without displaying the "Sure?"
prompt, include the ",Y" option in the command line. The
",Y" option is entered immediately following the
command argument.
Examples:
· To boot both circuits without displaying the "Sure?"
prompts, type /BOOT *,Y or /BO *,Y and then
press [Enter].
· To power-off a circuit named POWER1 without
displaying the "Sure?" prompt, type /OFF POWER1,Y
or /OF POWER1,Y and then press [Enter].
6.4. The Default Command
The Default Command (/D) sets circuits to their default On/Off
status. The default status is set using the Circuit Parameters
menus described in Section 5.5. To set the circuits to their
default settings, type /D and press [Enter].
Note:
· When User Mode is active, this command will only
be applied to the circuit owned by the User's
password. The command will not be applied to a
circuit owned by another User Password.
· When the System Mode is active, this command
will be applied to both circuits.
· This command will always be applied to all owned
circuits. It cannot be directed only to a specific
circuit module.
6.5. The Automated Mode
The Automated Mode allows the RPC-4840N to perform
On/Off/Boot/Default/Exit commands, without displaying menus
or generating response messages. Automated Mode is designed
to allow the RPC to be controlled by a computer (or another
automatic system) which can generate commands to control
power switching functions without human intervention.
When the Automated Mode is enabled, the /ON, /OFF, /BOOT,
/D and /X commands are executed without a "Sure?"
confirmation prompt and without command response messages;
the only reply to these commands is the "RPC>" prompt, which
is displayed when the command is complete.
Note: When Automated Mode is enabled, all RPC
password security functions are disabled, and users
are able to access System Level command functions
(including the configuration menus), and control
both circuits without entering a password. If you
need to enable the Automated Mode, but want to
restrict network access to RPC configuration menus,
it is recommended to enable and configure the IP
Security Function as described in Section 5.6.1.
To enable/disable the Automated Mode, access the RPC-4840N
General Parameters menu, and proceed as described in
Section 5.4. When the Automated Mode is enabled, RPC
functions will change as follows:
1. All Password Security Suppressed: When a user
attempts to access the command mode, the password
prompt will not be displayed at either the Network Port,
Modem Port, or Console Port. Unless restricted by the IP
Security Function, all users will be allowed to access
System Level command functions and control both
circuits. At the Console Port, all commands are
immediately accepted, whether the circuit is awake
or asleep.
2. Status Screen Suppressed: The status screen will not be
automatically displayed after commands are successfully
executed. Note however, that the /S command can still be
invoked to display the status screen if desired.
3. "Sure?" Prompt Suppressed: All commands are
executed without prompting for user confirmation.
4. Error Messages Suppressed: If the [Enter] key is
pressed without entering a command, the RPC will not
respond with the "Invalid Command" message. Note
however, that an error message will still be generated if
commands are invoked using invalid formats or arguments.
All other status display and configuration commands will still
function as normal.
6.6. Other Commands
6.6.1.
Login as Different User
The /R command is used to re-login using a different password.
When invoked, the RPC will display the password prompt,
allowing the user to enter a different password in order to access
the other circuit or System Level command functions. The /R
command is typically used to switch from User Mode to
System Mode.
The /R command is available in both System Mode and User
Mode. To login as a different user, type /R, press [Enter], and
then key in a different valid password at the prompt. To
suppress the "Sure?" prompt, type /R,Y [Enter].
6.6.2.
Reset Network Port
The /T command is used to reinitialize the RPC Network card.
The /T command is not available in User Mode. To reset the
Network Port, type /T and press [Enter]. To suppress the
"Sure?" prompt, type /T,Y [Enter].
Note: The /T command can only be issued via the
Console Port or Modem Port. The /T command
cannot be invoked via the Network Port.
6.6.3.
Exit / Disconnect
To exit from the RPC Command Mode and discontinue
connection to the unit, type /X and press [Enter]. The RPC will
display the "DISCONNECT" message. To suppress the "Sure?"
prompt, type /X,Y [Enter].
Note: Only one port may access the command
mode at any given time. In order to allow access to
the RPC unit via other ports, always exit from the
command mode when you are finished
communicating with the unit. For more information,
please refer to Section 6.7.
6.7. Operating Tips
When connecting to the RPC via network, modem or console
port, the following factors should be kept in mind:
1. One Connection at a Time: Only one port can access the
command mode at a time. Therefore, it is recommended
that users should always disconnect using the /X command
when finished communicating with the unit. When a
command port is busy, the RPC will react as follows:
a) Network Port Busy: If a second user attempts to
connect via the Modem Port, the RPC will send a busy
message. If a second user attempts to connect via the
Console Port, the port will not wake.
b) Modem Port Busy: If a second user attempts to
connect via the Network Port, the connection will be
refused. If a second user attempts to connect via the
Console Port, the port will not wake.
c) Console Port Busy: If a second user attempts to
connect via the Network Port, the connection will be
refused. If a second user attempts to connect via the
Modem Port, the Console Port will disconnect and the
Modem Port will be granted access; the Modem Port
has priority over the Console Port.
2. Ping Packet Size: The RPC will not accept Ping Packets
larger than approximately 1000 bytes.
If you have any questions regarding configuration or operation of
the RPC-4840N, please contact WTI Technical Support as
described in Appendix C.
7. Saving and Restoring
Configuration Parameters
After the RPC-4840N has been properly configured, parameters
can be downloaded and saved as an ASCII text file. Later, if the
configuration is accidentally altered, the file with the saved
parameters can be uploaded to automatically reconfigure the unit
without the need to manually assign each parameter.
Saved parameters can also be uploaded to other RPC-4840N
units. This allows rapid set-up when several units will be
configured with the same parameters.
The "Save Parameters" procedure can be performed from any
terminal emulation program (e.g. ProComm, Crosstalk,
Hyperterminal, etc.), which allows downloading of ASCII files.
7.1. Sending Parameters to a File
1. Start your communications program and access the
RPC command mode using the System Level Password.
2. When the RPC> command prompt appears, type /DL and
press [Enter]. The RPC will prompt you to prepare your
communications program. Set up your communications
program to receive an ASCII download, and specify a
name for the file that will receive the saved parameters
(e.g. RPC.PAR).
3. When the communications program is ready to receive the
file, return to the RPC command mode, and press [Enter]
to proceed.
4. The RPC-4840N will send a series of ASCII command
lines which specify the currently selected parameters.
7.2. Restoring Saved Parameters
This section describes the procedure for using ProComm to send
saved parameters to the RPC-4840N.
1. Start your communications program and access the
RPC-4840N command mode using the System Level
Password.
2. Configure your communications program to upload an
ASCII text file.
3. Upload the file with the saved parameters. If necessary,
key in the file name and directory path.
4. When the upload is complete, make certain to terminate
the communications program's upload mode.
Note:
· The current On/Off status of each RPC-4840N
circuit will not be saved or restored. However, the
selected default On/Off setting for each circuit will
be saved and restored.
· When the configuration file is sent to the
RPC-4840N via telnet, the unit's IP Address,
Subnet Mask, and Gateway Address cannot be
altered.
5. Type /SP and press [Enter], the RPC-4840N will display
the Status Screen with passwords revealed. Check the
Status Screen to make certain that saved parameters have
been restored.
A. Interface Descriptions
A.1. Console Port Interface
A.2. Modem Port Interface
B. Specifications
Switched DC Circuits: 1 or 2 code-selectable 40 amp Circuit
Modules (Second Circuit Module is Optional).
Each Circuit Module is rated at -48 VDC @ 40 amps max.
Circuit Module: 40 amp On/Off, Push/Pull Circuit Breaker
Terminations: Terminal Block with #10 screws.
Network Interface: 10Base-T, RJ45
Modem and Console Port Interface:
Connector: DB9M, RS232C, DTE
Coding: Serial ASCII, 8 Bits, No Parity
LEDs: ON, RDY, RXD, CKT 1 ON, CKT 2 ON
Physical / Environmental:
Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C
Humidity: 10 - 90% RH, Non-Condensing
Temperature: 0°C to 30°C operating
Power: -48 VDC (±10%) @ 40 amps max.
Size: 3.5" x 19.00" x 7.5" (H x W x D).
Requires two rack spaces.
Weight: 10 pounds shipping weight
C. Customer Service
Customer Service hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM,
PST/PDT, Monday through Friday. When calling, please be
prepared to give the name and model of the unit, its serial
number and a description of its symptoms. If the unit should
need to be returned for factory repair it must be accompanied by
a Return Authorization number from Customer Service.
WTI Customer Service
5 Sterling
Irvine, California 92618
Toll Free Service Line: 1-888-280-7227
Local Phone: (949) 586-9950
Service Fax: (949) 457-8138
Email: [email protected]
Trademark and Copyright Information
WTI and Western Telematic are trademarks of Western Telematic
Incorporated. All other product names mentioned in this
publication are trademarks of their respective companies.
Information and descriptions contained herein are the property of
Western Telematic, Inc.. Such information and descriptions may
not be copied, disseminated or distributed without the express
written consent of Western Telematic, Incorporated.
©Copyright Western Telematic, Inc., 2002. All right reserved.
Printed in the United States of America.
January 2002
WTI Part Number: 13224 Rev. A
Index
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B
C
E
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P
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U
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