Software Overview, Menus | Black Box LES404A, LES402A, LES401A

Black Box LES404A, LES402A, LES401A manual Software Overview, Menus

Chapter 5: Using Serial Server Manager

5.3 Software Overview

The Serial Server Manager window provides the following information:

•Menus (Server, View, Exit, Help)

•Server Icons (Firmware Upgrade, Virtual COM Configuration, Searching Server, Uninstall Virtual COM, Monitor Port Status)

•Serial Server/Virtual COM Lists

•Software Status (Ready, Updating, Searching, etc.)

5.3.1 Menus

Server

• Firmware Upgrade—Used when downloading new firmware to the Serial Server.

NOTE: See Chapter 9 for more information on upgrading firmware.

•Virtual COM Configuration—Selects the Virtual COM List. Double clicking on any COM port in the Virtual COM List brings up a window that enables changing the virtual COM settings such as Flow Control, Protocol, IP address, and Port Number. Virtual COM settings must match Serial Server port settings.

•Searching Server—Searches for Serial Servers on the network and brings back configuration information that will be displayed in the Server Properties window.

•Uninstall Virtual COM—Enables virtual COM ports to be uninstalled from the Serial Server Manager window.

•Monitor Port Status—Brings up a screen that displays the following information associated with the selected serial port:

Serial TX: Displays the number of bytes of data sent to the serial device since the IP connection was established.

Serial RX: Displays the number of bytes of data received from the connected serial device since the IP connection was established.

DTR/RTS: The DTR/RTS Port Status indicator displays the current logic state of the DTR and RTS hardware handshake (output) lines for the selected Serial Server port (1 = asserted, 0 = not asserted).

DCD/DSR/CTS: The DCD/DSR/CTS Port Status indicator displays the current logic state being received on the DCD, DSR, and CTS hardware handshake (input) lines for the selected Serial Server port (1 = asserted, 0 = not asserted).

Status: Indicates whether the client software has made a connection with the Serial Server.

IP Address: Displays the IP address of the connected client when there is a client connection.

•Save Configuration File—Enables the user to save the current configuration information to a file with a .vcom extension.

•Load Configuration File—Enables the user to load a configuration file.

View

Provides three viewing options for the Serial Server Manager screen:

•Toolbar—enables the toolbar (directly under the menu bar) to be viewable or hidden.

•Status Bar—enables the Status Bar (at the bottom of the screen) to be viewable or hidden.

•Split—enables the position of the split between the Icons pane and the Virtual COM List/Serial Server List panes to be dragged horizontally using the mouse.

Exit

• Allows you to Exit the Serial Server Manager program.

Help

• Accesses the “About vcomui” dialog box, which indicates the software version number.

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LES402A, LES401A, LES404A, 1-, 2-, and 4-Port Industrial Ethernet Serial Servers specifications

The Black Box LES402A, LES404A, and LES401A are robust industrial Ethernet serial servers designed to facilitate seamless communication between serial devices and Ethernet networks. These devices come in various configurations, including 1-port, 2-port, and 4-port options, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

One of the primary features of the Black Box LES series is their ability to convert asynchronous serial data into a TCP/IP format. This functionality allows legacy devices to be integrated into modern Ethernet networks, providing businesses with a cost-effective solution to modernizing their infrastructure without replacing existing equipment. The devices support various serial protocols, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, ensuring compatibility with numerous devices.

Each server in this series is equipped with advanced features such as selectable baud rates, which range from 300 to 921,600 bps, catering to the needs of diverse serial peripherals. Additionally, the LES402A, LES404A, and LES401A include an easy-to-use web-based management interface that simplifies configuration and monitoring. Users can quickly set up parameters, manage connections, and perform diagnostics, all from a centralized interface.

Robustness and reliability are crucial for industrial applications, and the Black Box LES series does not disappoint. Built to withstand harsh environments, these devices feature a rugged metal housing that protects against dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. Additionally, they come with Ethernet port support for Auto-MDIX, simplifying cable connections by automatically detecting and adjusting the port configuration.

Security is another significant consideration. The Black Box LES servers include features such as SSL and SSH support that secure data transmission between devices, making them suitable for sensitive applications. Furthermore, the devices support SNMP for network management, allowing for remote monitoring and management.

In summary, the Black Box LES402A, LES404A, and LES401A series of Industrial Ethernet Serial Servers are designed to bridge the gap between legacy serial devices and modern Ethernet networks. With their robust construction, varied port options, and advanced features, these devices enhance connectivity and streamline operations in demanding industrial environments. Their flexible configuration and security protocols make them a reliable choice for organizations looking to integrate their legacy systems into contemporary networks.