Lantronix ETS16PR, ETS16PS, ETS32PR, ETS8PS

ETS Installation Guide 7

The Lantronix ETS (ETS8PS, ETS16PS, ETS16PR, and ETS32PR) is a multi-port

device server providing shared network access to terminals, devices, console ports,

and printers for a variety of network protocols and operating systems. The ETS

supports the TCP/IP, IPX (NetWare), Local Area Transport (LAT), AppleTalk

(EtherTalk), and Microsoft LAN Manager protocols.

Note: In this manual, all ETS servers will be referred to as “the ETS” unless

a distinction needs to be made between models.

The ETS stores its executable software in Flash (rewritable) ROM, meaning that it

does not have to download software from a host each time it boots. Software must

only be downloaded when a new software version becomes available. See

D:Updating Software for more information.

Supported Serial Protocols

All ETS models support the RS-232/423 serial protocol.

RS-232

The RS-232 line interface standard is a single-ended peer-to-peer interface. Today's

personal computers typically have at least one RS-232 serial port. It is the most

common serial protocol used today.

RS-232 is used for connecting devices across short distances at speeds up to 230.4

kb/s. Faster speeds require shorter cabling to ensure error-free communication. The

maximum cable length at a given speed is determined by many factors, including the

immediate electrical environment and the quality of cable used, but is usually less

than 15 meters at high speeds.

RS-423

All of the ETS models support the RS-423 line interface standard. RS-423 devices

are interoperable with RS-232 devices. That is, RS-232 ports can receive data

reliably from RS-423 ports and vice-versa.

The main difference between RS-423 and RS-232 is that RS-423 employs lower

voltage signaling and differential receivers. RS-423 still uses single-ended

transmitters for compatibility with RS-232 receivers.

RS-423 is generally rated at higher speeds over longer cabling runs than RS-232.

Maximum data rates of 230.4 kb/s are possible on ETS-PR models, and 115.2 kb/s is

the maximum on ETS-P models.