National Instruments 320727B-01 Chapter 2 Hardware Configuration and Installation

Chapter 2Hardware Configuration and Installation

This chapter gives instructions for configuring the 10Base-T and coax versions of the

GPIB-ENET. It also describes how to connect the GPIB-ENET to a Macintosh computer

or local Ethernet network, switch on the GPIB-ENET, and power on your system.

The GPIB-ENET is shipped from the factory with either a 100 to 120 VAC or a

220 to 240 VAC power supply. Before you configure your GPIB-ENET, verify that the

voltage rating listed on the bottom of the box matches the voltage that is supplied in your

area.

Warning: Operating the GPIB-ENET at any voltage other than the one specified

could damage the unit. Replacement fuses must be the proper type and

size. Refer to Appendix A, Hardware Specifications, for fuse

specifications.

The Internet Protocol (IP) address is the address that TCP/IP-based networks use to route

information to the appropriate network and host. When you first install a GPIB-ENET in

a network, or if the IP address for the GPIB-ENET changes, you must configure the

IP address for the GPIB-ENET.

The IP address is not the same thing as the Ethernet address. All devices on an Ethernet

network are assigned a physical address, which is the Ethernet address, so that they can

communicate with each other. The Ethernet address of each GPIB-ENET is printed on

the bottom panel identification label.

You should see your network administrator to obtain an IP address that is valid for your

network. Your network administrator can also tell you whether the GPIB-ENET should

have its IP address configured from the network (dynamic configuration) or with the

IPassign utility (static configuration). Dynamic configuration is provided by the

Ethernet Reverse Address Resolution Protocol (RARP). This protocol allows other

devices on the network to configure the GPIB-ENET with an IP address. See the section

Select the Method for Configuring the IP Address, later in this chapter, for information on

selecting the IP address configuration method.

Make a note of the IP address that you use when configuring your hardware, because you

must enter the IP address when you install the NI-488.2 software.