Network Considerations

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Running Two Network Cards in a PC

If your network contains routers, bridges, gateways, or other devices that divide the network into subnets, and you intend to have the PC on a different subnet from the NetDAQ instrument(s), you need to make sure that the devices can route IP packets. This is especially true on Novell networks, where the network may contain devices that can route only IPX packets.

The PC software uses the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) to establish the relationship between the physical address and IP address of the NetDAQ instruments. The ARP protocol uses broadcast messages. So, your routers must be set up to pass ARP broadcasts to all subnets containing NetDAQ instruments.

Running Two Network Cards in a PC

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There are cases when you may want to operate more than one network interface on your PC. You can do this if you’re careful in setting up the adapters and configuring the software.

One instance when you might want to use two adapters in your PC is when you want to communicate with the NetDAQ instruments on a network that is separate from your general, multipurpose network. Another is when your general network uses other than Ethernet hardware (such as Token Ring).

Use of two network adapters will allow higher throughput when communicating at high speed with a set of NetDAQ instruments on one network and logging data to a file server over the other network.

When setting up two network adapters in a single PC, make sure that the hardware resource setups do not overlap. Each adapter needs a unique interrupt level (IRQ) and port address. This is sometimes hard to do because of the limited number of IRQ levels available in the PC hardware, so be careful.

If you’re using two Parallel-to-LAN Adapter Ethernet interfaces (264XA-802), you should include the LPTn switch on the packet driver load line, in the driver section of the protocol.ini file for the NDIS driver, or in the driver section of the net.cfg file for the ODI driver. This switch specifies which of the parallel ports that adapter is connected to. If you leave this switch off, the driver may attach to the wrong adapter.

If you’re using two ISA bus Ethernet adapter cards, make sure that the IRQ level and port addresses don’t overlap. Also make sure that you add the I/O address to the end of the packet driver load line, in the driver section of the protocol.ini file for the NDIS driver, or in the driver section of the net.cfg file for the ODI driver.

Load the network operating system client software first, then load the Trumpet or Newt software.

During installation of the Newt software, be careful to enter the IRQ and port address that matches the network card attached to the NetDAQ instruments.

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Fluke 2640A, 2645A user manual Running Two Network Cards in a PC

2645A, 2640A specifications

The Fluke 2640A and 2645A are advanced bench multimeters that represent a significant leap in measurement technology, designed primarily for electrical engineers and technicians who require precision and reliability in their readings. These multimeters are built to cater to complex applications in manufacturing, research, and development.

One of the standout features of the Fluke 2640A and 2645A is their high accuracy. With specifications that can reach up to 0.0035% DC Voltage accuracy, users can trust that their measurements will be consistent and precise. This is especially critical in fields like automated test equipment (ATE) where exact measurements can be crucial for product quality and safety.

Both models incorporate a large, easy-to-read display, making it convenient for users to view measurement results clearly from a distance. They also feature a wide measurement range, capable of handling a variety of tasks, from basic voltage and current measurements to more complex tasks such as resistance and temperature measurements with appropriate sensors.

The multimeters also stand out with their advanced data logging capabilities. The Fluke 2645A, for instance, can store up to 10,000 readings, allowing for extensive data collection and analysis without the need for constant monitoring. This is beneficial for long-term studies or processes that require continual oversight.

Connectivity is another key characteristic. Both the 2640A and 2645A support USB and RS-232 interfaces, which enable easy integration with computers and other devices for seamless data transfer. This feature is important for engineers who rely on software for data analysis and visualization.

Another notable technology included in these models is the Fluke Connect app compatibility, which allows users to remotely monitor measurements from their smartphones or tablets. This capability provides added flexibility, enabling technicians to work hands-free while still keeping an eye on process measurements.

Additionally, the Fluke 2645A comes with a graphical display option, allowing users to visualize measurement trends over time. This graphical representation can be invaluable for diagnosing issues or observing patterns in data.

In conclusion, the Fluke 2640A and 2645A multimeters offer exceptional performance with their high accuracy, extensive data logging, connectivity options, and advanced visualization capabilities. These features make them indispensable tools for professionals in a variety of fields, ensuring that they can achieve reliable results in their measurement endeavors.