ProSoft Technology IHN WMIA-199NI User Manual RLX2 Series

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Document Title	RLX2 Series User Manual
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Document Author:	ProSoft Technology, Inc. Technical Publications

RLX2 Series
802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
November 29, 2012
USER MANUAL
Your Feedback Please
We always want you to feel that you made the right decision to use our products. If you have suggestions,
comments, compliments or complaints about our products, documentation, or support, please write or call us.
How to Contact Us
ProSoft Technology
5201 Truxtun Ave., 3rd Floor
Bakersfield, CA 93309
+1 (661) 716-5100
+1 (661) 716-5101 (Fax)
www.prosoft-technology.com
support@prosoft-technology.com
Copyright © 2012 ProSoft Technology, Inc., all rights reserved.
RLX2 Series User Manual
®
®
®
®
®
ProSoft Technology , ProLinx , inRAx , ProTalk , and RadioLinx are Registered Trademarks of ProSoft
Technology, Inc. All other brand or product names are or may be trademarks of, and are used to identify
products and services of, their respective owners.
ProSoft Technology® Product Documentation
In an effort to conserve paper, ProSoft Technology no longer includes printed manuals with our product
shipments. User Manuals, Datasheets, Sample Ladder Files, and Configuration Files are provided on the
enclosed DVD, and are available at no charge from our web site: http://www.prosoft-technology.com
This documentation is not intended as a substitute for and is not to be used for determining suitability or reliability
of these products for specific user applications. It is the duty of any such user or integrator to perform the
appropriate and complete risk analysis, evaluation and testing of the products with respect to the relevant
specific application or use thereof. Neither ProSoft Technology nor any of its affiliates or subsidiaries shall be
responsible or liable for misuse of the information contained herein. Information in this document including
illustrations, specifications and dimensions may contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors.
ProSoft Technology makes no warranty or representation as to its accuracy and assumes no liability for and
reserves the right to correct such inaccuracies or errors at any time without notice. If you have any suggestions
for improvements or amendments or have found errors in this publication, please notify us.
No part of this document may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, without express written permission of ProSoft Technology. All pertinent state, regional, and local
safety regulations must be observed when installing and using this product. For reasons of safety and to help
ensure compliance with documented system data, only the manufacturer should perform repairs to components.
When devices are used for applications with technical safety requirements, the relevant instructions must be
followed. Failure to use ProSoft Technology software or approved software with our hardware products may
result in injury, harm, or improper operating results. Failure to observe this information can result in injury or
equipment damage.
© 2012 ProSoft Technology. All rights reserved.
Important Safety Information
The following Information and warnings pertaining to the radio module must be heeded:
WARNING – EXPLOSION HAZARD – DO NOT REPLACE ANTENNAS UNLESS POWER HAS BEEN
SWITCHED OFF OR THE AREA IS KNOWN TO BE NON-HAZARDOUS.
"THIS DEVICE CONTAINS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING TRANSMITTER MODULES:
FCC ID: OQ7IHG, RYK-WMIA199NI, NKRDCMA82, SWX-XR5
PLEASE SEE FCC ID LABEL ON BACK OF DEVICE."
"THIS DEVICE USES AN INTERNAL COMPACT FLASH RADIO MODULE AS THE PRIMARY RADIO
COMPONENT. THE COMPACT FLASH RADIO MODULE DOES NOT HAVE AN FCC ID LABEL. THE
COMPACT FLASH RADIO MODULE HAS NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS."
"THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE
FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2)
THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY
CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION."
"CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR
COMPLIANCE COULD VOID THE USER’s AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT."
“THIS DEVICE IS CONFIGURED FOR OPERATION IN THE USA DURING MANUFACTURING. THESE
CONFIGURATION CONTROLS ARE NOT PRESENT IN THE SOFTWARE WITH WHICH THE UNIT IS
SHIPPED; THEREFORE THE END USER CANNOT CHANGE THE MAX POWER SETTINGS OR THE
COUNTRY/REGION. THE MODELS SOLD & SHIPPED WITHIN THE U.S. ARE IDENTIFIED WITHIN THE
MODEL NUMBER WITH –A AS PART OF THE IDENTIFIER.”
Industry Canada Requirements:
"THIS DEVICE HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO OPERATE WITH AN ANTENNA HAVING A MAXIMUM GAIN OF 24
dB. AN ANTENNA HAVING A HIGHER GAIN IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED PER REGULATIONS OF INDUSTRY
CANADA. THE REQUIRED ANTENNA IMPEDANCE IS 50 OHMS."
"TO REDUCE POTENTIAL RADIO INTERFERENCE TO OTHER USERS, THE ANTENNA TYPE AND ITS
GAIN SHOULD BE CHOSEN SUCH THAT THE EQUIVALENT ISOTROPICALLY RADIATED POWER (EIRP)
IS NOT MORE THAN THAT REQUIRED FOR SUCCESSFUL COMMUNICATION."
"THE INSTALLER OF THIS RADIO EQUIPMENT MUST INSURE THAT THE ANTENNA IS LOCATED OR
POINTED SUCH THAT IT DOES NOT EMIT RF FIELD IN EXCESS OF HEALTH CANADA LIMITS FOR THE
GENERAL POPULATION; CONSULT SAFETY CODE 6, OBTAINABLE FROM HEALTH CANADA."
Recommended Antennas
ProSoft Part Number
Max Gain and Type
A2402S-OSLP
2 dBi Omni RP-SMA compact stub - 2.5" 2.4GHz
A2403NBH-OC
3 dBi Omni N-BH jack whipless 2.4GHz
A2403S-OM
3dBi Omni RP-SMA 10' LMR195 pigtail with magnetic base 2.4GHz
A2404NBHW-OC
4 dBi Omni N BH jack low profile 2.4GHz
A2404NJ-OC
4 dBi Omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2405S-OA
5 dBi Omni RP-SMA articulating 2.4GHz
A2405S-OM
5 dBi Omni RP-SMA straight w/magnetic base 2.4GHz
A2405S-OS
5 dBi Omni RP-SMA straight 2.4GHz
A2406NJ-OC
6 dBi Omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2406NJ-OCD
6dBi Omni N jack heavy duty collinear with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2406S3-DP
6dBi Panel RP-SMA MIMO antenna with 3 foot pigtail 2.4GHz
A2408NJ-DP
8 dBi Directional patch panel N jack with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2408NJ-OC
8 dBi Omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2409NJ-OCD
9 dBi Omni N jack heavy duty collinear with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2410NJ-DY
10 dBi Directional N jack Yagi with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2410NJ-OCM
10 dBi Omni N jack collinear for marine environment, 2.4GHz
A2412NJ3-DP
12dBi Panel N-Jack MIMO antenna 2.4GHz
A2413NJ-DP
13 dBi Directional patch panel N jack with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2415NJ-DY
15 dBi Directional N jack Yagi with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2415NJ-OC
15dBi Omni N jack collinear antenna with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2416NJ-DS
16 dBi Directional 120 degree sector N jack with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2419NJ-DB
19 dBi Directional N jack parabolic with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2419NJ-DP
19 dBi patch panel N jack with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2424NJ-DB
24 dBi Directional N jack parabolic with mounting hardware 2.4GHz
A2502S-OA
2dBi omni RP-SMA articulating 2.4/5GHz
A2506NJ-OC
6/8dBi omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 2.4/5GHz
A2508NJ-DP
8/9 dBi directional N jack panel with mounting hardware 2.4/5GHz
A5003S-OBH
3dBi Omni RP-SMA bulkhead mount with 5' LMR195 pigtail 5GHz
A5004NBHW-OC
4 dBi Omni N BH low profile collinear antenna 5GHz
A5006NJ-OC
6dBi omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 5GHz
A5007S3-DP
7dBi Panel RP-SMA MIMO antenna with 3 foot pigtail 5GHz
A5009NJ-OC
9dBi omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 5GHz
A5017NJ3-DP
17dBi Panel N-Jack MIMO antenna 5GHz
A5019NJ-DP
19dBi directional N jack panel with mounting hardware 5GHz
A5024NJ-DP
24dBi directional N jack panel with mounting hardware 5GHz
A5812NJ-OC
12dBi omni N jack collinear with mounting hardware 5.8GHz
A5829NJ-DB
29dBi directional N jack parabolic with mounting hardware 5.8GHz
A2503S3-O
3/4dBi Omni RP-SMA MIMO antenna with 3 foot pigtail 2.4/5GHz
A2503S6-O
3/4dBi Omni RP-SMA Dual MIMO antenna with 3 foot pigtail 2.4/5GHz
A2506NJ3-O
6dBi Omni N-Jack Single MIMO antenna with 3 foot pigtail 2.4/5GHz
A2506NJ6-O
6dBi Omni N-Jack Dual MIMO antenna with 3 foot pigtail 2.4/5GHz
An adapter may be needed for some of the listed antennas to operate with certain radios
Antenna spacing requirements for user safety
It is important to keep the radio's antenna a safe distance from the user. To meet the requirements of FCC part
2.1091 for radio frequency radiation exposure, this radio must be used in such a way as to guarantee at least 20
cm between the antenna and users. Greater distances are required for high-gain antennas. The FCC requires a
minimum distance of 1 mW *cm2 power density from the user (or 20 cm, whichever is greater).
If a specific application requires proximity of less than 20 cm, the application must be approved through the FCC
for compliance to part 2.1093.
Contents
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Contents
Your Feedback Please ........................................................................................................................ 2
How to Contact Us .............................................................................................................................. 2
®
ProSoft Technology Product Documentation .................................................................................... 2
Important Safety Information............................................................................................................... 3
Recommended Antennas ................................................................................................................... 3
Antenna spacing requirements for user safety ................................................................................... 4
Start Here
1.1
1.2
1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.3
1.3.1
1.3.2
1.4
1.4.1
1.4.2
1.4.3
About this manual .................................................................................................... 10
®
About the RadioLinx RLX2 Industrial Hotspot™ products .................................... 10
General Features .................................................................................................... 10
LED Indicators ......................................................................................................... 11
Antenna Ports .......................................................................................................... 12
Package Contents ................................................................................................... 13
Standard Contents .................................................................................................. 13
Industrial Hotspot Bench Test Kit (RLX-IHBTK) ..................................................... 13
The RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser Configuration Tool ............................... 14
System Requirements ............................................................................................. 14
Install From DVD ..................................................................................................... 14
Install From Download File ...................................................................................... 17
RLX2 Quick Setup
2.1
2.2
2.3
19
Setup Master Radio................................................................................................. 20
Setup Repeater Radio ............................................................................................. 26
Setup Client Radio .................................................................................................. 28
Planning the Network
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.1.3
3.1.4
31
Installation Questions .............................................................................................. 32
Planning the Physical Installation ............................................................................ 32
ProSoft Wireless Designer ...................................................................................... 33
ProSoft Wireless Designer Installation .................................................................... 35
Installing the Radios
4.1
4.2
37
Connecting antennas .............................................................................................. 39
Test the Network Installation Plan ........................................................................... 39
Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
Page 5 of 161
41
Diagnostics .............................................................................................................. 42
Check the Ethernet cable ........................................................................................ 43
LED display ............................................................................................................. 44
Retrieve the default password ................................................................................. 45
Troubleshoot IH Browser error messages .............................................................. 46
Troubleshoot Missing Radios .................................................................................. 46
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Contents
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
5.7
Improve signal quality ............................................................................................. 47
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
6.1
6.1.1
6.1.2
6.1.3
6.2
6.2.1
6.2.2
6.2.3
6.2.4
6.2.5
6.2.6
6.3
6.3.1
6.3.2
6.3.3
6.3.4
6.3.5
6.4
6.4.1
6.4.2
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
6.8.1
6.8.2
49
Radio Status ........................................................................................................... 52
Available Parents .................................................................................................... 53
Address table .......................................................................................................... 55
Port status ............................................................................................................... 56
Radio Network Settings .......................................................................................... 58
Parent Link Settings ................................................................................................ 61
IGMP Settings ......................................................................................................... 66
Rapid Spanning Tree Functionality......................................................................... 67
Spanning Tree Settings .......................................................................................... 69
Advanced Settings .................................................................................................. 71
Serial Port Settings ................................................................................................. 76
Security settings...................................................................................................... 78
Encryption type ....................................................................................................... 79
WPA phrase ............................................................................................................ 79
WEP key ................................................................................................................. 80
MAC filter ................................................................................................................ 81
Hide Network SSID ................................................................................................. 81
Radio access settings ............................................................................................. 82
SNMP Agent settings .............................................................................................. 83
Change password ................................................................................................... 84
Apply Changes........................................................................................................ 84
Cancel Changes ..................................................................................................... 85
Factory Defaults ...................................................................................................... 85
DFS Support ........................................................................ 85
Master Radio Operations ........................................................................................ 85
DFS Auto Select ..................................................................................................... 86
RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
7.1
7.2
7.2.1
7.2.2
7.2.3
7.2.4
7.2.5
7.2.6
7.2.7
7.2.8
7.2.9
7.2.10
7.3
7.3.1
7.3.2
7.3.3
7.3.4
7.3.5
7.3.6
Page 6 of 161
87
Primary radio functions ........................................................................................... 88
File Menu ................................................................................................................ 89
Scan Setup ............................................................................................................. 89
Scan ........................................................................................................................ 90
Clear ....................................................................................................................... 90
Import ...................................................................................................................... 90
Export ...................................................................................................................... 90
Freeze ..................................................................................................................... 90
Print ......................................................................................................................... 90
Print Preview ........................................................................................................... 91
Print Setup .............................................................................................................. 91
Exit .......................................................................................................................... 91
Operations Menu .................................................................................................... 91
Connect................................................................................................................... 92
Assign IP ................................................................................................................. 92
Update Firmware .................................................................................................... 93
Ping Device ............................................................................................................. 94
Start Sniffing Packets ............................................................................................. 95
Start Logging Events .............................................................................................. 96
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
7.4
7.4.1
7.4.2
7.4.3
7.4.4
7.4.5
7.4.6
7.4.7
7.4.8
7.5
7.5.1
7.5.2
7.5.3
7.5.4
7.5.5
7.5.6
7.5.7
7.5.8
7.5.9
7.5.10
7.5.11
7.5.12
7.5.13
7.6
7.6.1
7.6.2
Contents
User Manual
Dialogs Menu .......................................................................................................... 97
Wireless Clients ....................................................................................................... 97
Ethernet Nodes ....................................................................................................... 98
Scan List .................................................................................................................. 99
Port Table .............................................................................................................. 100
All 4 Dialogs .......................................................................................................... 100
Close All ................................................................................................................ 100
Event Log .............................................................................................................. 100
Properties .............................................................................................................. 101
View Menu ............................................................................................................. 102
Toolbar .................................................................................................................. 102
Status Bar .............................................................................................................. 103
List View ................................................................................................................ 103
Topology View ....................................................................................................... 106
Zoom In ................................................................................................................. 108
Zoom Out .............................................................................................................. 108
Zoom to Fit ............................................................................................................ 109
Show Ping Stations ............................................................................................... 109
Show Parents - All ................................................................................................. 110
Show Parents - One .............................................................................................. 110
Print Area .............................................................................................................. 110
Reset Columns ...................................................................................................... 111
Select Columns ..................................................................................................... 111
Help Menu ............................................................................................................. 112
Help Topics ........................................................................................................... 112
About RLX IH Browser .......................................................................................... 113
Reference
115
8.1
Product Overview .................................................................................................. 115
8.2
Compatibility with ProSoft RLXIB Series Radios .................................................. 117
8.3
Dimensional Drawings ........................................................................................... 118
Master Channel-Frequency Table .................................................................................................. 120
8.4
FCC Emission Regulations ................................................................................... 121
8.4.1
2.4 GHz Band, Point-To-Multipoint ....................................................................... 121
8.4.2
2.4 GHz Band, Point-To-Point ............................................................................... 121
8.4.3
5 GHz Bands, Point-To-Multipoint ......................................................................... 122
8.4.4
5 GHz Bands, Point-To-Point ................................................................................ 122
8.5
Radio hardware ..................................................................................................... 123
8.5.1
Radio power requirements .................................................................................... 123
8.5.2
Ethernet Cable Specifications ............................................................................... 125
8.5.3
Ethernet Cable Configuration ................................................................................ 126
8.6
RLX2-IHA Detailed Specifications ......................................................................... 127
8.7
RLX2-IHG Detailed Specifications ........................................................................ 128
8.8
RLX2-IHNF Detailed Specifications ...................................................................... 130
8.9
RLX2-IHW Detailed Specifications ........................................................................ 132
Antenna Configuration
9.1
9.1.1
9.1.2
9.1.3
9.1.4
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
135
Antennas ............................................................................................................... 135
Antenna Pattern .................................................................................................... 135
Antenna Gain ........................................................................................................ 136
Antenna Polarity .................................................................................................... 136
Whip antennas ...................................................................................................... 136
Page 7 of 161
Contents
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
9.1.5
9.1.6
9.1.7
9.1.8
9.1.9
10
Collinear array antennas ....................................................................................... 137
Yagi Array Antenna ............................................................................................... 137
Parabolic reflector antennas ................................................................................. 138
RLX2 Approved antennas ..................................................................................... 139
Antenna location, spacing, and mounting ............................................................. 141
Support, Service & Warranty
143
Contacting Technical Support ........................................................................................................ 143
Warranty Information ...................................................................................................................... 144
Glossary of Terms
145
Index
159
Page 8 of 161
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Start Here
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Start Here
In This Chapter




About this manual .................................................................................. 10
®
About the RadioLinx RLX2 Industrial Hotspot™ Products ................... 10
Package Contents ................................................................................. 13
The RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser Configuration Tool .............. 14
For most applications, the installation and configuration steps described in the
following topics will work without additional programming. ProSoft Technology
strongly recommends the completion of the steps in this chapter before
developing a custom application.
Page 9 of 161
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Start Here
User Manual
1.1
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
About this manual
This manual covers the entire RadioLinx® RLX2 Industrial Hotspot™ series of
radio products. There are four products available in this product line:
Model
Standards
Maximum Output Power
IEEE 802.11a
24 dBm (250 mW)
IEEE 802.11b/g
24 dBm (250 mW)
IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n
17 dBm (50 mW)
IEEE 802.11a/b/g
23 dBm (200 mW)
Except for different operating frequencies and output power levels, these radios
all operate in a similar fashion. Different models operating on common
frequencies can communicate with each other. Furthermore, all RLX2 series
radios can communicate with ProSoft Technology’s legacy RLXIB series of
radios. Details on the specific differences between the RLX2 and RLXIB series
products can be found in the Compatibility with ProSoft RLXIB Series Radios
section on page 117.
When a feature is described in this manual that is unique to a specific RLX2
model, it will be highlighted like this:
This features applies to the RLX2-IHNF only
1.2
About the RadioLinx® RLX2 Industrial Hotspot™ products
1.2.1 General Features
The RadioLinx® 802.11 Industrial Hotspots™ are high-speed wireless Ethernet
radios, with Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and Serial Encapsulation. All radios
operate at speeds up to 54 Mbps, and the RLX2-IHNF operates at speeds up to
300 Mbps. Designed for industrial installations, the RLX2 series offer many
features including hazardous location certifications (pending), IGMP Snooping,
OFDM for noise immunity, repeater mode to extend range, automatic parent
selection for self-healing, OPC server diagnostics, extended temperature, high
vibration/shock and DIN-rail mounting.
Page 10 of 161
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Start Here
User Manual
1.2.2 LED Indicators
All radios have LED indicators on the front panel that indicate the status of the
radio while booting up and during operation. The LED states are summarized in
the following table:
Power
 While booting up
 When fully operational
RF Transmit
 While transmitting over wireless
RF Receive
 While receiving over wireless
Serial
 When a serial cable is attached
Ethernet
 When Ethernet data is being
transferred
Net

Mod

Signal Strength LEDs: SD card
inserted

Signal Strength LEDs: running in Client
or Repeater Modes
Signal Strength LEDs: running in
Master Mode
Blinks if SD card with new
configuration inserted
Blinks if SD card with new
configuration inserted

 Blinks if SD card with new
configuration inserted
   No Signal
   Radio linked, Poor Signal
   Radio linked, Fair Signal
   Radio linked, Good Signal




 No radios linked
 One or more radios linked
(right LED blinking).


 DFS Channel Availability
Check in progress (all LEDs blinking
Amber)
See section 5.3 for further details regarding the LED display for various
conditions.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Page 11 of 161
Start Here
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
1.2.3 Antenna Ports
Each RLX2 series radio has three antenna connectors on the top, but not all
ports are active on all products as noted below:
These radios have a single active antenna port:
This radio has three active antenna ports:
This radio uses the right-side antenna port for transmit and receive. An
optional receive-only antenna can be attached to the left-side antenna
port for better performance. The middle antenna port is not used.
Models with inactive antenna ports are shipped with plastic caps on the inactive
ports. To avoid the possibility of attaching an antenna to an inactive port, ProSoft
recommends that users do not remove caps from inactive ports.
Page 12 of 161
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
1.3
Start Here
User Manual
Package Contents
1.3.1 Standard Contents
The following components are included with standard RLX2 radio products:
Qty.
Part Name
Part Number
Part Description
RLX2 Series Radio
Personality Module
Varies
001-005700
Power Connector
002-0116
Power Connector
Wiring Tool
Antenna
357-0061
RadioLinx RLX2 802.11 Industrial Hotspot
MicroSD card with default factory
configuration (installed in radio when
shipped)
Mating power connector for the RLX2
radios, for attachment to customer’s power
supply.
Tool to assist wiring the power connector.
ProSoft Solutions
DVD
DVD-001
A2502S-OA
®
2 dBi Omni RP-SMA articulating, 2.4/5GHz.
This antenna is suitable for all RLX2 radio
products.
Contains sample programs, utilities,
firmware images, and documentation for
®
RadioLinx products.
1.3.2 Industrial Hotspot Bench Test Kit (RLX-IHBTK)
The standard radio products are intended for deployment into production
systems and do not include accessory power supplies or cables. For bench
testing of radios, an optional bench test kit provides these accessories:
Qty.
Part Name
Power Supply
Part Number
RL-PS007-2
Cable
Cable
Adapter
RL-CBL025
085-1007
HRDNULL-DB9
Part Description
AC Power Adapter, 12V1.6A w/2 pin & 4
plug Set
5 foot Ethernet Straight-Thru Cable
6 foot RS232 serial cable
RS232 null modem serial adapter
Important: Before installing, please verify all listed product items are present. If any of these
components are missing, please contact ProSoft Technology Support for replacements.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Page 13 of 161
Start Here
User Manual
1.4
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
The RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser Configuration Tool
The Industrial Hotspot Browser configuration tool (hereafter called the IH
Browser) is used for setup and configuration of the RLX2 radios. It is designed
for personal computers running Microsoft Windows operating systems. The IH
Browser can be installed from the product DVD shipped with the RLX2 radio
product, or it can be downloaded from the ProSoft website.
1.4.1 System Requirements
Pentium® II 450 MHz minimum. Pentium III 733 MHz (or better)
recommended
 Supported operating systems:
o Microsoft Windows XP Professional 32-bit with Service Pack 3
o Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 32- or 64-bit, with Service Pack 1
o Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview 32- or 64-bit.
Other Microsoft Windows operating system versions may work but have
not been tested by ProSoft and are not officially supported.
 128 Mbytes of RAM minimum, 256 Mbytes or more of RAM recommended
 100 MB available hard drive space
 256-color VGA graphics adapter, 800 x 600 minimum resolution (True Color
1024 x 768 resolution or better recommended)
 At least one 100BASET or 1000BASET network interface. A second interface
is often useful to setup a small private network for initial configuration and
testing.
In addition, these items may be needed:
 A DVD-ROM drive, if installing the RadioLinx IH Browser from optical media.
 An RS-232 port on the PC or a USB-to-serial convertor cable, to use serial
encapsulation features or to access system debugging information.
 An internet connection may be useful to download updated product
information from the ProSoft Technology website at http://www.ProSoftTechnology.com.

1.4.2 Install From DVD
Insert the ProSoft Solutions DVD in the DVD drive. On most computers, a
menu screen will open automatically. If a menu does not appear within a few
seconds, follow these steps:
a Click the Start button, and then choose Run.
b In the Run dialog box, click the Browse button.
c In the Browse dialog box, click "My Computer". In the list of drives,
choose the DVD drive where the ProSoft Solutions DVD was inserted.
d Open the DVD and double-click the ProSoft_DVD.exe file to run it.
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Start Here
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The DVD should display a startup screen like this:
Type the product name into the search box and click Search. Here is an
example of searching for the RLX2-IHNF:
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Click on the product name. The screen will display the contents for this
module.
Double-click on RadioLinx IH Browser v3.130 (or a newer version if available)
and the installation wizard should launch:
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Follow the instructions on the installation wizard to install the program with its
default location and settings.
When the installation finishes, a prompt to restart the computer may appear if
certain files were in use during installation. The updated files will be installed
during the restart process.
1.4.3 Install From Download File
If the RadioLinx IH Browser was downloaded from the ProSoft website, it will be
packaged as a compressed zip file. Double–click the zip file after downloading,
and the Windows extraction wizard will extract the installation file (RadioLinx IH
Browser 3.130.msi or a newer version.) Then double-click the .msi file to install
the IH Browser.
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RLX2 Quick Setup
User Manual
RLX2 Quick Setup
In This Chapter



Setup Master Radio ............................................................................... 20
Setup Repeater Radio ........................................................................... 26
Setup Client Radio ................................................................................ 28
This section describes how to setup RLX2 radios in a minimal configuration
before deploying them in the permanent installation. It will help verify the radios
are operational along with getting familiar with basic configuration procedures.
Note that the procedures described in this section assume the radios are in their
default configurations as shipped by ProSoft. If that is not the case, reset the
radios to factory defaults as described in section 6.7 before attempting these
procedures.
In any given network, there must be one radio acting as a Master, and the other
radios will be configured as Repeaters or Clients. Generally there is only one
Master radio per network.
Note: The RLX2 radios support the Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) which allows
configuration of multiple Master radios on a single network in “hot standby” mode for redundancy.
RSTP is described further in section 6.2.3
Because most wireless networks consist of one Master radio and multiple
Repeaters, all RLX2 radios are shipped from ProSoft pre-configured as
Repeaters. Hence our first task is to configure one radio as the network Master.
IMPORTANT: If a ProSoft Power adapter RL-PS007-2 (supplied with the RLX-IHBTK Bench Test
Kit) is not present, see section 8.5.1 for instructions on wiring the power connector.
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2.1
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Setup Master Radio
The first step is to select the radio to use as a Master. Typically all RLX2 radios
in a network will be the same model, although this is not necessary.
IMPORTANT: The only RLX2 radios that do not have any channels in common with each other are
the RLX2-IHA and RLX2-IHG. The RLX2-IHW and RLX2-IHNF radios can communicate with each
other and with the RLX2-IHA and RLX2-IHG radios.
If all the radios are present on the workbench, antennas are not needed for this
configuration exercise. Radios without antennas will have sufficient signal
strength to link over short distances, without radiating or receiving unnecessary
RF energy in the surrounding environment. The connections needed are on the
bottom of the radio:
1. Attach an Ethernet cable to the designated master RLX2 radio. Make sure this
network connection is on the same subnet as the PC running the IH Browser
configuration software.
Note: The Ethernet DATA LED should come on when data is sent or received from the radio. The
Ethernet SPEED LED indicates the speed of the Ethernet connection. The SPEED LED is off for
10 Base T, on for 100 Base T, and blinks about once every two seconds for 1000 Base T links.
2. Power up the radio. The power LED should illuminate with an amber color, then
go out for a few seconds during initialization, then finally come back on green.
This process will take 10 to 15 seconds. Once the power LED is green, the radio
has booted and is operational. Other LEDs may become active as well.
3. Take note of the MAC address of the RLX2 radio. This is printed on a label
attached to the front of the radio. The MAC address should be something like 000D-8D-XX-YY-ZZ (e.g. 00-0D-8D-F0-5C-8E.) This number uniquely identifies the
radio on the network.
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RLX2 Quick Setup
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4. Run the IH Browser configuration software.
If the display is different than above, use the IH Browser toolbar controls to clear
and refresh the display:
The “erase” tool clears the display
The “search” tool rescans the network for RLX2 radios
If no radios appear in the list, see the section 5.6 on troubleshooting missing
radios.
5. In particular, note the line listing the MAC address of the RLX2 radio. If the radio
is on a network with a DHCP server, it will obtain an IP address via DHCP. If not,
the radio will appear with an IP address of 0.0.0.0 as shown above.
6. Assign it a valid IP address for the network. Do this by right-clicking on the
radio’s row in the IH Browser display and selecting Assign IP from the context
menu.
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7. A dialog will appear:
The Unused IP’s: box contains a number of IP addresses that have are currently
available on the network. Select one of them, and click OK. (In this
example,192.168.1.250 is used)
IMPORTANT: Be sure to click OK or the selected IP address will not be assigned to the radio.
8. A dialog will appear:
It is a reminder that this is only a temporary IP address.
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RLX2 Quick Setup
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9. Open a web browser on the PC, and enter the IP address that was just assigned
to the radio (e.g. http://192.168.1.250). A login screen will display:
The default password is password. Enter that in the text box and click Login.
10. The radio’s main webpage will appear: (Some fields may be different depending
on the specific radio model)
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11. Select the Master radio button and select Channel 1 (2412 MHz) as shown
below.
Note: If the Master radio is an RLX2-IHA, select Channel 36 (5180 MHz).
12. If the IP address is manually set in steps five and six above, permanently set the
IP address by selecting the Use the following IP address radio button:
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13. Click the Apply Changes button and the Radio will reboot
While rebooting, a progress will display:
After the radio has rebooted, it should be shown as a Master in the IH Browser
window:
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2.2
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Setup Repeater Radio
Since we haven’t changed any factory-default configuration parameters in the
Master radio (other than to make it a Master), additional RLX2 radios in their
default shipping configuration should link to it as soon as power is applied to
them.
1. Attach power to another RLX2 radio. The Ethernet cable does not need to be
attached to it at this time.
2. After the radio is booted, the radio should appear in the IH Browser:
Note that the Repeater radio above (whose MAC address ends in BF in the
above example) has linked to the Master (whose MAC address ends in BE)
and there is a signal strength indication of –85 dBm.
3. Attach an Ethernet cable, and assign a unique IP address to the Repeater. In
this example, the Repeater is assigned an IP address of 192.168.1.251:
After setting the Repeater’s IP address, remove its Ethernet connection.
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4. On the PC, open a command prompt window and attempt to ping the
Repeater’s IP address. The Master should ping the Repeater over the air:
5. Congratulations! The RLX2 wireless network is now configured. Additional
Repeaters can be configured by repeating the steps listed above.
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2.3
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Setup Client Radio
RLX2 radios can be configured in Client mode. Client mode radios only support
one wired network device, but can connect to third-party 802.11 Access Points.
The following table highlights the most significant differences between Repeater
and Client modes on RLX2 radios:
Repeater
Client
Number of attached
Ethernet devices
supported
Many (up to limits of
network)
One
Can connect to other
RLX2 Repeaters?
Yes
No
Can connect to nonProSoft Access Points
(Masters)?
No
Yes
MAC address seen on
network
Repeater radio’s MAC
address
MAC address of
connected device, or
user-specified MAC
address.
Client mode radios are not often necessary in Industrial network applications. If
the need for a Client RLX2 radio in the system is not needed, this example
configuration can be skipped.
The most straightforward way to test a Client mode radio configuration is with a
second PC connected as the downstream network device from a Client radio. We
will assume such a setup in the following example, and will connect to the Master
radio we configured previously.
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1. Connect the client radio to the same network as the configuration PC running
the IH browser. Assign it an IP address as described above. Open the
configuration webpage and change the radio to Client mode as shown:
Click Apply Changes. When the radio reboots, the IH Browser will display:
2. Power off the Client radio and disconnect the Ethernet cable from the
configuration PC.
3. Connect the Ethernet cable to an Ethernet port on another PC, and power up
the Client radio. (The radio must be powered up after attaching the Ethernet
cable to the new PC so the radio will register the MAC address of the PCs
network interface.)
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Ensure the IP address of the Ethernet interface on the PC is on the same
subnet as the network of the Client Radio. For this example, set the IP
address of the PC interface to 192.168.1.100. Here is an example of doing so
in Windows 7:
4. Open a command prompt on the client PC, and try to ping the IP address of the
Master radio. It should respond as seen below:
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Planning the Network
User Manual
Planning the Network
Before configuring and installing the wireless network, it may help to create a
plan. The following points assume a bridge network of masters and repeaters.
Clients can also be configured to work with devices on existing wireless LANs.
For information, see Setup Client Radio (page 28).
The simplest way to design the physical network of radios, antennas, connectors,
cables, amplifiers and other accessories, is to use ProSoft Wireless Designer
(page 32). This is a freely-available software application that determines the
hardware needs based on the user’s answers to a few questions.
The software will generate a Bill of Materials specifying all the components
needed for the installation. ProSoft Wireless Design is included on the optical
media supplied with the RLX2 radio, and is also available for downloading from
the ProSoft website.







To begin, identify the potential radio locations. For example, the master radio
may be installed near a PC in a central plant location (This PC can configure
the radios through the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility). If the plant is
an oil refinery, for example, radios may need to be installed near the oil tanks.
The next important issue is how to link the radios. Unless the radios are very
close together, make sure that each pair of radio antennas in the network has
a line of sight between them. In other words, visibility is needed from one
antenna to another, either with the naked eye or with binoculars.
If a line of sight does not exist between antennas, an additional site is needed
for installing a repeater radio. This site will create a bridge between the radio
antennas.
Choose the appropriate antennas for the network. If an antenna will be
connected to the radio by a long cable, a power amplifier (available from
ProSoft Technology) may be needed. The more distance between an
antenna and its radio, the more signal loss the radio will have.
ProSoft Wireless Designer can suggest suitable antennas for the application
based on frequency band, data rate, distance, power output level, and other
factors.
Consider drawing up the network plans on paper. As part of the drawing,
assign a logical name to each radio. These names can be assigned in the
Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility.
As part of the planning, a site survey may be helpful. ProSoft Technology can
perform this survey, or hire a surveyor, or survey it on your own.
Protect radios from direct exposure to weather, and provide an adequate,
stable power source. Make sure the plan complies with the radio’s power
requirements and cable specifications.
Important: Radios and antennas must be located at least 8 inches (20 cm) away from personnel.
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3.1.1 Installation Questions
The following questions will help in getting familiar with the system.
How many radios are in the network?
Master ID:
Repeater ID:
Client ID:
Locations:
Is there a Line of Sight between them?
What type of antennas will be used in
the network?
3.1.2 Planning the Physical Installation
A network's performance is affected by attributes specific to the installation site.
Consider the following cautions, where possible, to optimize the network
installation:
 Design the network to use less than 2048 radios (per network)
 Place radios within the specified 15 miles of each other
 Add repeater to extend distance or where line of sight is limited
 Radios or antennas CANNOT be placed within 8 inches (20 cm) of where
people will be
Though radio frequency communication is reliable, sometimes its performance
can be affected by intangibles. A good network installation plan includes time
and resources for performance testing and installation changes.
Test the installation plan (page 39) before the network installation is complete.
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3.1.3 ProSoft Wireless Designer
ProSoft Wireless Designer is a freely-available software tool to simplify the task
of specifying a ProSoft wireless installation. The following screenshot shows an
example of configuring wireless links and estimates of signal quality:
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ProSoft Wireless Designer can also compute a Bill Of Materials (BOM) for a
complete radio installation, including antennas, cables, connectors and other
required materials:
It is included on the DVD with the RLX2 radio, or it can be downloaded from the
ProSoft website. ProSoft Wireless Designer provides a variety of views
containing an accurate description of each site in a wireless network, including:






Visual diagram of site layout
Location (latitude/longitude, based on GPS coordinates)
Radio type, frequency range, and country-specific channel and power
requirements
Length, type and estimated signal loss for cables
Required accessories, including lightning protection, cable adaptors and
antennas
Complete parts list
ProSoft technical personnel use ProSoft Wireless Designer when conducting site
audits for customers, and then provide customers with a complete list of
components and a detailed description for each site and link. Customers can use
this information to understand and visualize their network, and provide necessary
information for technical support and maintenance.
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Planning the Network
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Functional Specifications:
 Contains a database of all currently available RadioLinx radios, antennas,
cables, connectors and accessories
 Exports Parts List, Site and Link Details, and Wizard settings into a variety of
common file formats, for import into applications such as spreadsheets,
databases and word processors
 Checks wireless link feasibility based on path length and recommended
accessories
 Predicts signal strength based on distance, local regulations and hardware
choices
 Fully documents the ProSoft Wireless network plan
3.1.4 ProSoft Wireless Designer Installation
When installing from the product DVD, search for the product, then doubleclick on the ProSoft Wireless Designer item on the product menu (see the
red arrow below). This action starts the installation wizard.
When using the downloaded application from the ProSoft website, it is
packaged as a zip archive. Double-click the zip archive to extract the
installation file INSTALLER.MSI, double-click it to start the installation.
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The installer wizard should start and look like this:
Follow the instructions on the installation wizard to install the program.
Click FINISH to complete the installation. If prompted to restart the computer,
save all work, close the applications, and allow the computer to restart.
Refer to the user manual for ProSoft Wireless Designer and its online help for
detailed information.
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Installing the Radios
User Manual
Installing the Radios
In This Chapter


Connecting antennas ............................................................................ 39
Test the Network Installation Plan ......................................................... 39
If possible, configure all the radios side by side in an office setting and make sure
they link before installing them in the field. If feasible, test with the radios and
end-device equipment together before they are installed in the field.
Important: If the radios are close enough to each other that their received signal strength is
greater than -40dBm, performance may be degraded. Disconnect antennas from radios during
bench testing, or move the radios further apart from each other.
Tip: To make it easier to physically identify the radios, apply a label to each radio indicating the
radio name and IP address.
After each radio is configured using the IH Browser and the web configuration
form, install the radios and test their performance. Install the radios in their
proposed permanent locations.
Temporarily place each radio’s antenna near its proposed mounting location. The
temporary placement of the antenna can be done by hand. Make sure to monitor
the radio’s signal strength.
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To see how a radio is linked in the network, make sure that the radio is
connected to a PC, and select Topology View from the View menu in the IH
Browser.
The Topology view shows a diagram of the network’s wireless connections. Use
this view to see whether all the radios are linked, and approve of the way the
radios are linked.
A radio that is not linked to a parent will show as a circle outlined by a flashing
dashed red line. It may be near the bottom of the window. Scroll down to view all
available radios. To change how radios link to the network, see Parent Link
settings (page 61).
Refer to Improve Signal Quality (page 47) for more information on overcoming
poor connectivity.
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4.1
Installing the Radios
User Manual
Connecting antennas
Each radio must have an antenna connected to the Main antenna port on the
RLX2 radio; without an antenna for each radio, the network will not function if the
radios are more than a few meters apart.
All antennas for radios that communicate directly with each other should be
mounted so they have the same antenna polarity. Small antennas with a reversepolarity SMA connector can be mounted directly on the radio. Screw the antenna
onto the antenna port connector until it is snug.
Larger antennas and antennas that do not have a reverse-gender SMA
connector must be mounted separately and connected to the radio using a
coaxial antenna cable. Because the antenna cable attenuates the RF signal, use
an antenna cable length that is no longer than necessary to ensure optimum
performance.
Important: If the radio is to be used in a hazardous location, the radio must be mounted in an
enclosure approved for hazardous locations. The radio requires a separate cable connection to the
SMA connector that leads to an internal antenna.
4.2
Test the Network Installation Plan
Test proposed installations before finalizing the installation.
After the network and radios are configured:
 Install the Master radio in its proposed permanent location
 Cable the Configuration PC to the Master radio
 Place the Remote radios in their proposed locations
 Temporarily place each radio's antenna near its proposed mounting location.
The temporary placement of the antenna can be by hand. However, one
person must hold the antenna while the other person monitors the Remote
radio's signal strength displayed on the Configuration PC.
To improve the signal quality of each Remote radio:
 Increase the height of the antenna's placement
 Use higher-gain antennas
 Increase the radio's transmission power, cable the radio to the Configuration
PC, and reconfigure it
 Select a new location for the Remote radio and/or its antenna
 Decrease the length of antenna cable
 Determine and resolve sources of "electrical" noise which may be interfering
with the radio transmission
 Add a repeater between the radios that are not communicating, or
reconfigure an existing radio as a repeater if line of sight is available
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Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
User Manual
Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
In This Chapter







Diagnostics ............................................................................................ 42
Check the Ethernet cable ...................................................................... 43
LED display ........................................................................................... 44
Retrieve the default password ............................................................... 45
Troubleshoot IH Browser error messages ............................................. 46
Troubleshoot missing radios.................................................................. 46
Improve signal quality ............................................................................ 47
Use the program’s diagnostic and signal strength settings at the top of the Radio
Settings window to make sure the network is working properly:



Signal Strength graph: This setting graphically shows the radio’s signal
strength. The graph will show the word Master if a master radio is selected.
The graph will show the word Scanning if the radio is scanning to find another
radio to which to connect. If the radio is not connected to a network and not
currently scanning, the graph will show the words Not Connected.
Update every: To update the diagnostic readings on a particular interval,
specify the interval (in seconds) in this field. The default is 15 second
updates.
Read-only fields that appear with the diagnostic settings.
The following troubleshooting routines can be done:
 Check the Ethernet cable (page 43)
 Retrieve the default password (page 45)
For more troubleshooting information, go to the ProSoft Technology web site at
www.prosoft-technology.com
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5.1
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Diagnostics
The Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility (Web configuration form for the radio)
provides information that can help troubleshoot problems with the radio.
Use the program’s diagnostic and signal strength settings at the top of the Radio
Settings window to make sure the network is working properly.
Signal Strength graph: This setting graphically shows the radio’s signal
strength.
 The graph will show the word Master if a master radio is selected.
 The graph will show the word Scanning if the radio is scanning to find
another radio to which to connect.
 If the radio is not connected to a network and not currently scanning, the
graph will show the words Not Connected.
 If the radio is configured as a Repeater and has linked to a Master, the Signal
Strength graph will show a color-coded signal quality indication.
Update every: To update the diagnostic readings according to a particular time
interval, specify the interval (in seconds) in this field. After entering the new
value, press Enter to save the new value. Press Tab or click elsewhere to use
the new value temporarily.
The following configuration forms in the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility
provide information about current radio operation:
 Address table (page 55)
 Port status (page 56)
 Available Parents
 Read-only fields (page 52)
The following topics describe troubleshooting routines:
 Check the Ethernet cable (page 43)
 Retrieve the default password (page 45)
 Troubleshoot IH Browser error messages (page 46)
 Troubleshoot missing radios in the IH Browser (page 46)
For more troubleshooting information, visit the ProSoft web site at
www.prosoft-technology.com
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5.2
Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
User Manual
Check the Ethernet cable
If the radio’s Ethernet port is connected and the Ethernet LED does not light on
the radio, there may be a problem with the Ethernet cable. Verify the cable is
plugged into the radio at one end, and to an Ethernet hub or a 10/100/1000
Base-T Ethernet switch at the other end.
If using the PoE injector, verify that the M12 to RJ45 cable is connected between
the radio and the injector and also that the Ethernet patch cable is connected
between the injector and switch.
Note: The RLX2 radio auto-detects the Ethernet connection type, and does not require a crossover
cable for direct connection to a PC.
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5.3
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LED display
The RLX2 radio front panel includes a set of LEDs that indicate the radio’s
status:
LED
POWER
Description
 While booting up
 When fully operational
RF TRANSMIT
RF RECEIVE
SERIAL
This bi-color LED comes up amber when power is first applied. After power is
applied, this LED will go out completely for about four seconds while internal
hardware is initialized. After initialization, the power LED comes on green,
indicating the radio is fully operational.
 While transmitting data over the wireless interface
 While receiving data over the wireless interface
 When a serial cable is attached
ETHERNET
The serial LED remains off until a serial cable is plugged into the RS-232 port.
 When Ethernet data is being transferred over the wireless interface
NET
Note that the state of the front-panel ETHERNET LED may not necessarily
correspond to the state of the DATA LED on the Ethernet connector. The DATA
LED indicates any traffic over the wired link, while the ETHERNET LED indicates
network data that will be sent (or has been received from) the wireless link.
For example if the radio is pinged over the wired link, the DATA LED will blink
but the ETHERNET LED will not (because the ping packet was not transmitted
over the air)
 Blinks if SD card with new configuration inserted
MOD
Reserved for future additional use.
 Blinks if SD card with new configuration inserted
Signal Strength
Reserved for future additional use.


 Blinks if SD card inserted with new configuration
This is for all radio modes.
Radios in Master mode:
   No radios linked
   One or more radios linked (right LED blinking).


 DFS Channel Availability Check in progress (all LEDs blinking
Amber)
Radios in Repeater or Client mode:
   No Signal
   Radio linked, Poor Signal
   Radio linked, Fair Signal
   Radio linked, Good Signal
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Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
User Manual
Once the power cable and Ethernet cable are connected to the radio, the
Power/Status LED should illuminate green. The SPEED LED should indicate a
valid wired link. The RF Transmit and RF Receive LEDs should start to blink
occasionally.
For Repeater or Client mode radios, all three Signal Strength LEDs will blink just
after the radio links to the Master’s signal but before it has been fully
authenticated. Normally this lasts only a few seconds. If it lasts longer or never
turns solid it usually means the encryption keys are not correct.
5.4
Retrieve the default password
If the password is unknown, the user will be unable to change the radio settings.
The user can retrieve the default password to use the software again, but will
lose all the settings that were programmed before.
To retrieve the default password and return the radio to its default settings:
1 Turn off power to the radio.
2 Locate the reset button hole.
Insert the end of a paperclip or similar device into the hole to press the reset
button.
While holding the reset button in with a paperclip, attach power to the radio,
and continue to hold down the reset button for 30 seconds.
The radio will be reset to its default settings, including the password. The
user should now be able to log in using the default password, which is
password.
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5.5
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Troubleshoot IH Browser error messages
One error message commonly occurs when using the IH Browser, "Unable to
scan for AP's".
This error occurs when the IH Browser attempts to scan for radios and no valid
network connection exists on the PC, wired or wireless.
To correct this error, Confirm the PC has at least one active network (LAN)
connection. It could be a wired Ethernet connection or a wireless 802.11
connection.
Confirm the network connection has a valid IP address. The network connection
might need to have a static IP address assigned to it. Check the IP address of
the network connection to determine that one has been assigned.
5.6
Troubleshoot Missing Radios
If radios are not visible in the IH Browser, try the following:

First, click the SCAN button again. Scans are sent as broadcast messages,
which can be dropped in RF connections, requiring the user to scan again.

Second, disable any software firewall running on the PC (This is most
common in Windows XP and newer). Open the NETWORK CONNECTIONS
folder in the Windows Control Panel, then open the LOCAL AREA CONNECTION
PROPERTIES window and verify that the check box under INTERNET
CONNECTION FIREWALL is not checked.

If the preceding approaches do not help, the PC running the IH Browser and
the radios are probably not connected to the same local network. Verify the
connections.

In topological view, any unlinked radios may be at the bottom of the window.
Scroll down to see all radios. If the radios still cannot be seen in the IH
Browser, call technical support.
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5.7
Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
User Manual
Improve signal quality
To improve a radio’s signal quality, try the following steps:
 Adjust the direction of the high-gain antennas.
 Increase the height of the antenna’s placement.
 Use higher-gain antennas or external preamplifiers.
 Select a new location for the radio and/or its antenna.
 Decrease the length of the antenna cable.
 Determine and resolve sources of interfering electrical noise.
 Add a repeater between radios that are not communicating.
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
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November 29, 2012
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Industrial Hotspots
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
In This Chapter








Radio Status .......................................................................................... 52
Radio Network Settings ......................................................................... 58
Security settings .................................................................................... 78
Radio access settings ........................................................................... 82
Apply Changes ...................................................................................... 84
Cancel Changes .................................................................................... 85
Factory Defaults .................................................................................... 85
DFS Support.......................................................................................... 85
The RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot radio has a built-in Radio Configuration /
Diagnostic Utility (radio web configuration form) that allows the configuration of
the radio from any computer that can connect to the radio, through a wired
Ethernet connection, or through a Wireless connection.
A web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Firefox on a networkenabled desktop computer, laptop or Personal Data Assistant (PDA) can be used
to monitor and change the settings within the RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot radio.
To open the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility
In the RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser, select the radio to configure from
the list view or topography view, and then click the right mouse button to
open a shortcut menu.
2 On the shortcut menu, choose Connect. The Radio Configuration / Diagnostic
Utility will open in the web browser.
Or,
Double-click the selected radio to launch the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic
Utility.
Also, the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility can be opened directly from the
web browser.
Important: The desktop computer, laptop, or PDA must be connected to the same network as the
RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot radio.
Open a web browser.
In the address bar, type "http://", followed by the IP address for the radio,
and then click the "Go" button. For example,
http://192.168.6.10
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
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Read-Only fields
Some of the fields on the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility form are readonly, meaning that the content of the field is provided for information only, and
cannot be directly modified.
Depending on the way the radio is configured, some fields and buttons may be
unavailable because they do not affect the configuration selected. Review the
topics in this section for more information on when and how to use each
configuration option.
Configuration Help
Help is available for each item in the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility.
 To view a brief help message about any field on the screen, move the mouse
pointer over the field (which turns blue), or use the [Tab] key, and refer to the
text that appears at the bottom of the screen.
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
To view more help about the selected field, click the field name. This action
opens a help page in a new browser window.

To view the complete online documentation for the RLX2 radio, click the
button. This action opens the online documentation in a new browser
window. Use the Contents, Index and Search tabs in the left frame to
navigate the help system.
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6.1
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Radio Status
The general radio status fields appear at the top of the Radio Configuration
window.
Note: Different versions of the RLX2 Radios support different functionality. There may be more or
fewer options on this page, depending on the version of the radio.
Use the settings in the Radio Status panel to view the current settings for this
radio.
Field
Radio Name
Radio MAC
Radio Type
Firmware
Update every
Up Time
CPU Temp
Signal Strength
Parent MAC
Branch Length
# Radios Linked
Current Channel
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Description
Name of the selected radio.
MAC address of the selected radio. The MAC ID is also printed on the
side of the radio.
Model of RLX2 radio –Examples: RLX2-IHA, RLX2-IHG, RLX2-IHNF, or
RLX2-IHW.
Version of firmware currently installed. All radios on the network must
have the same firmware versions installed to guarantee proper
operations. For more information on firmware versions, refer to Update
firmware (page 93).
Value in seconds controls how often the web configuration form
automatically refreshes. To change the value temporarily, enter the new
value and press the [Tab] key. To change the value permanently, enter
the new value and press the [Enter] key.
Length of time the radio has operated since the last system power-up or
last system reset.
Temperature of the CPU board inside the radio.
Strength of the signal from the Parent radio.
MAC address of the parent radio to which the selected radio is linked.
Number of RF links from the radio to the master radio.
Number of other radios that are linked to this radio.
Channel upon which the radio is currently operating. For Repeaters and
Clients, this is the channel in use to communicate to their parent radio.
For a Master radio, this may not match the channel selected by the user
if the radio has changed channels because radar was detected. See
section 6.8
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Field
Link Mode
Link Time
Available Parents
Address Table
Port Status
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
Description
This is the operating mode of the radio. For all radios other than the
RLX2-IHNF, the Link Mode will always be 802.11a/g. For the RLX2IHNF, additional Link Modes possible are 802.11n and 802.11n wide.
See section 6.2 for more info.
Length of time the radio has been continuously connected to a parent
radio.
List of Access Points (Parents) from which this radio can detect
beacons. This button is only available when the radio type is Repeater.
List of MAC addresses for devices entered in the radio’s address table.
Spanning tree status of each switch port, for RF ports and the RJ45
(Ethernet) port.
6.1.1 Available Parents
Note: The Available Parents form is not available when the radio type is Master.
This page is helpful for viewing:
 Possible parents for a repeater. The current parent should normally be the
radio with the lowest cost and a matching SSID.
 Other 802.11 networks in the area.
Field
Only Show Same SSID
Refresh
Mac ID
SSID
Channel
Description
Select (check) this box to restrict the list of available parents to those
with the same SSID as the radio being configured.
Re-scans the network and update the devices in the list.
A unique hexadecimal number that identifies any Ethernet device.
Network Name (Service Set Identifier).
Radio channel on which the device is transmitting. The channel list
indicates the channel number as well as the frequency (2.4 GHz or 5
GHz bands).
Important: The antenna must operate on the same channel
(frequency range) that was selected.
RSSI
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Received Signal Strength Indication.
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Field
Security
Speed
Cost
Age
Hops
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Description
Encryption type enabled for the device.
IEEE 802.11 connection speed (a, b, or g). The RadioLinx RLX2 radio
supports all three 802.11 connection speeds.
Parent selection cost.
Length of time (in seconds) since the radio last saw a packet from this
MAC address
Number of hops to the Master. A value of 0 (zero) is shown for nonProSoft devices.
This list contains both 802.11 devices that are part of the same SSID as the
RLX2 itself (for example, "Minerals") as well as devices that belong to different
SSIDs (for example, "Network1" and "ProSoftInternal"). This list is updated
continuously and can be used for many purposes.
The RLX2 radio updates this list with each 802.11 packet that is received,
whether from a radio of the same network or one that belongs to another SSID. It
can also see radios from other vendors.
Once per second the RLX2 radio evaluates the link it has to its parent to
determine if this link is the best parent to use. A cost is calculated for each entry
and can be seen in the column labeled "Cost" in the preceding table. The cost
calculation is based not only on the strongest signal, but on several other factors
to provide optimum network communication.
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6.1.2 Address table
The Address Table shows the port through which each MAC address is
connected, along with the age in seconds since the radio last saw a packet from
this MAC address.
Field
Radio MAC
Show Addresses for the
Following
Number of Rows to
Display
Index
MAC Address
Connection
Age (s)
Top
Next / Prev
Refresh
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Description
MAC address of the selected radio. The MAC ID is also printed on the
side of the radio.
Dropdown list to filter the address list. Options are:

Devices Out Ethernet Port

Directly Linked Radios/Clients

Devices beyond Direct RF Links
When the table is filtered to show only Directly linked radios/clients, an
additional RSSI column is listed, showing the Received Signal Strength
from each radio or client linked to the radio.
Selects the number of MAC addresses to display on this page. Use the
Next and Prev buttons to scroll through the available MAC addresses.
Position in the list. Each page shows up to 10 devices. Use the Next
and Previous buttons to move up and down through the table.
MAC address for the device.
Connection type
Length of time (in seconds) since the radio last saw a packet from this
MAC address
Click the Top button to see the top of the table. The radio will display
updated data in the table entries.
If the table has more MAC addresses than it can display in the window,
use the Next and Prev buttons to move up and down through the table.
Updates the table.
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6.1.3 Port status
This configuration page opens when the Port Status button is clicked on the
Radio Configuration form.
When the Port Status button is clicked, the information for all the active ports on
the radio are displayed. Above the table, the information of the current Spanning
Tree (page 69), including the MAC address of the "root" device, and the timing
parameters that are set for the current Spanning Tree.
Each radio can have up to 34 active ports—one Ethernet cable, one parent RF
link, and up to 32 child RF links.
The primary reason for creating a Spanning Tree is that it allows the creation of
fully redundant paths. If any single radio in a redundant path loses its connection,
another path still exists, and the connection will be updated and communication
restored.
Field
Spanning Tree
Protocol: Wireless
Ports
Ethernet Port
Edge Port
Spanning Tree Root
MAC
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Description
Spanning Tree Protocol level for the wireless port (Rapid STP or STP).
Spanning Tree Protocol level for the Ethernet port (Rapid STP or STP).
Displays Active or Inactive to based on the setting of Ethernet Edge
Port in the Spanning Tree configuration dialog.
MAC ID of the root device in the spanning tree.
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Field
Priority
Max Age
Hello Time
Forward Delay
Connection
State
Designation
Path Cost
Designated Bridge
Top
Next / Prev
Refresh
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
Description
Spanning Tree device with the lowest-priority value is elected the root of
the tree
Length of time a port can stay enabled without any new spanning
updates.
Length of time between the transmission of spanning update packets.
Length of time a port must listen for spanning information before being
activated.
Position in the list. Each page shows up to 10 ports. Use the Next and
Previous buttons to move up and down through the table.
Indicates what the port represents: Ethernet, a parent radio, or a child
radio.
Current Spanning Tree state of the port. Possible states are Blocking,
Learning, Listening, and Forwarding. Forwarding packets can be
transferred.
Spanning Tree designation for the branch off the port. Possible
designations are Root (ports going to the root), Designated (ports going
to a branch), or Normal.
Cumulative cost of all wired and wireless links from the port to the
Spanning Tree root.
Next bridge toward the Spanning Tree root for this port.
Click the Top button to see the top of the table.
If the table has more ports than it can display in the window, use the
Next and Prev buttons to move up and down through the table.
Updates the table.
The following illustration shows the RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser (page
85) application provided with the radios. Notice it shows the radio named
Hermatite_4F, linked to Amethyst_BD. This link is shown with a red dotted line.
Also visible is the level of redundancy in their network. Each of the blue lines
represents an alternate parent. From this view, it is easily shown how much
redundancy exists in their network.
To display the redundant paths, select the toolbar button denoting two "parents."
To view the redundancy on a per-radio basis, select the single "parent" button,
and then click on the radio to view its available redundancies.
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6.2
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Radio Network Settings
Note: Different versions of the RLX2 Radios support different functionality. The may be more or
fewer options on this page, depending on the version of the radio.
Use the settings in the Radio Network Settings panel to configure the radios in
the network. For more information on using these settings, see Configuring the
radios (page 37).
Field
Radio Name
Network SSID
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Description
Unique name of radio on the network.
Network name (SSID) of up to 32 characters. The radio uses this name
in all network references. All radios in a network must have the same
SSID. SSID names are case-sensitive.
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Field
802.11 Mode
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
Description
Present only on the RLX2-IHNF radio. There are three possible mode
settings:
802.11a/g
The radio acts as an 802.11a radio on the 5 GHz band, and an 802.11g
radio on the 2.4 GHz band. Data rates will be limited to the 802.11 a/g
rates (54 mbps maximum). 802.11n operational features will be
disabled. It is not necessary to select this mode for RLX2-IHNF radios
to link to other RLX2 or RLXIB series radios; they will link their best
possible speeds regardless of mode. This mode is not commonly used.
It is mainly used to allow 802.11 a/b/g client devices that cannot link to
802.11n devices to work. One example of such a device is the ProSoft
1734-AENTR wireless I/O client.
802.11n
Default operational mode of the RLX2-IHNF radio. All 802.11n features
are operational, and 20 MHz wide channels are used.
802.11.n wide
Utilizes adjacent pairs of 20 MHz-wide channels as a single 40 MHzwide channel. This allows the fastest data throughput to other 802.11n
devices. Only 802.11n devices can utilize this mode, but all RLX2
radios will link at their best speed regardless of mode.
Channel list (master
radio)
Channels in the 5 GHz band are 20 MHz apart, so 802.11n wide mode
occupies only two channels in that band. However, channels in the 2.4
GHz band are spaced only five MHz apart, so 802.11n wide mode in
the 2.4 GHz band occupies eight adjacent channels! Since there are at
most 13 channels in the 2.4 GHz band, and only three channels do not
overlap others, it is not recommended to enable wide mode on 2.4 GHz
band channels.
Indicates the channel number as well as the frequency for operation in
the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands. The available channels in the radio will
vary based on the model and country configuration. Please see section
0 for a comprehensive list of all frequencies for all RLX2 radio models.
RLX2-IHNF radios can operate on 5 GHz
frequencies that are subject to Dynamic Frequency Selection
regulations, and have a special channel selection called DFS Auto
Select. See section 6.8.2 for further details
Repeater
Parent Link settings
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Important: When choosing an antenna for use with the RLX2 radio,
make sure it supports the frequency range set in the configuration for
the radio.
Configures a radio as a repeater. The repeater mode is the normal
radio mode for the network, while the master mode is more of a special
setting to establish the network channel and define the root of the
network tree. Repeater radios help extend the range of a network and
help create the signal "bridges" that allow networked radios to
communicate. All RLX2 radios are capable of repeating.
Specifies how a repeater radio connects to the network. For
information, see Parent Link settings.
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Field
Client
Auto / Specify
Client MAC
IGMP
Spanning Tree
Advanced Config
Serial Settings
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Description
Allows the connection of an Ethernet device to any 802.11 a, b or g
access point. This mode is used in the special event of connecting a
device to another brand access point. For information on setting up a
client, see Configuring clients.
Use "specify" if device does not send out any unsolicited Ethernet
packets. Try Auto first.
MAC ID of the device connected to the radio, only if the device does not
advertise its MAC address.
Opens the IGMP Settings form. Use this form to enable (default) or
disable IGMP, and to configure how the RLX2 radio will behave when
IGMP is enabled.
Opens the Spanning Tree Settings form.
Opens the Advanced Settings form.
Opens the Serial Settings form.
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Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
6.2.1 Parent Link Settings
Field
Parent MAC
Description
MAC Address of the radio’s Parent node. In the example above, the
Repeater is not linked to a Master radio so the Parent MAC is shown
as all zeroes.
Parent Selection Method
Automatically Choose
Best
Parent Branch Length
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The Automatic Parent Selection algorithm uses a calculation to create
a “cost” metric for each possible parent radio that it detects.
In the calculation the radio includes,

RSSI - Stronger signals receive a lower cost.

Hop Count - Fewer hops from the Master radio is given preference
and therefore a lower cost
Choose this setting to allow the radio to determine the best parent to
select.
RLX2 radio will choose its parent strictly by the number of repeaters
between it and the Master radio. If a Branch Length of 1 is chosen, the
RLX2 radio will link only to the Master radio. If a Branch Length of 2 is
chosen, the RLX2 radio will link only to another RLX2 radio that is
linked to the Master radio, and so on.
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Field
Preferred Parent
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Description
RLX2 radio will select its parent from a list of possible parents specified
by the user. The user can list up to eight radios to choose from.

Best in List
When Best in List is selected the radio will select its parent using
the "Automatic Parent Selection" algorithm, but it will limit the
selection to the list of radios in the list. Therefore, the radio in the
list with the lowest cost according to the algorithm will be chosen
as its parent.

Follow List Priority
When Follow List Priority is chosen the radio will select its parent
from the list giving preference to the 1st entry followed by the 2nd
entry and so on.
Parent Selection Parameters
When the signal from a parent reaches a high enough value, a stronger
Signal Strength
signal will not improve the quality of the link any further. For signals
Threshold
that are above that threshold, only fewer hops from the Master give
preference. The threshold can be adjusted here.
The default setting is Auto which allows the radio to select the best rate
Rate to Parent
to use to the parent radio, and adapt over time. Specify a fixed rate
rather than auto for example if the link to the parent has a low signal
strength in which case fixing a lower rate can improve performance.
The actual rate used between this radio and its parent is the lower
value of this setting and the Max Data Rate setting in the parent (see
Max Data Rate). So use these two controls in conjunction if desired to
tailor the rate of each parent link.
Roaming Parameters
Optimize Fast Roaming
Parameters
In typical Fast Roam applications a Repeater is installed on a mobile
pallet or platform and a set of Master units forms a backbone
infrastructure network, through which the Repeater must roam. To
obtain fast roam times, Spanning Tree must be disabled and SSID's
not hidden on the Master. The Repeater should be configured to not
allow child Repeaters and to use a Signal Strength Threshold set high
enough such that RSSI is used to determine the link cost to a parent.
Checking the checkbox in this section automatically sets these
parameters accordingly along with a predetermined optimum value for
the cost threshold. Unchecking it will revert the parameters to their
previous values before the check box state was saved.
Note: All Spanning Tree configurations and Hide SSID must be
disabled manually on all Master units as this dialog box is only
accessible when in Repeater mode.
Save
Cancel
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It is always possible to subsequently change any of these parameters if
it is so desired, for example to set a different value for the Signal
Strength Threshold. If this is done then the control will not display as
checked as it will only display as checked if all three parameters have
the preset values.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
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Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
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After a selection is saved and return to the Radio Network Settings panel, notice
the selection is indicated under the Parent Link button.
The Automatic Parent Selection algorithm uses a calculation to create a cost for
each possible parent radio that it detects. The following graph describes how the
cost is calculated when the signal strength threshold is set to -60 dBm.
Once per second, the RLX2 radio evaluates the link it has to its parent to
determine if this link is the best parent to use. A cost is calculated for each entry
and can be seen in the column labeled "Cost" in the preceding table. The cost
calculation is based not only on the strongest signal, but on several other factors
to provide optimum network communication.
Prioritized Parent Selection
If more control is needed than the automatic algorithm allows, a priority list of
parents for the RLX2 radio can be defined.
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Prioritized Parent by Branch Length
With Parent Branch Length, the radio will choose its parent strictly by the
number of repeaters between it and the Master radio. If Branch Length of 1 is
chosen, the radio will link only to the Master radio. If Branch Length of 2 is
chosen, the radio will link only to an RLX2 radio that is linked to the Master radio,
and so on.
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Prioritized Parent by Preferred Parent List
With Preferred Parent, the radio will select its parent from a list of user-specified
parents. Up to eight radios can be defined.
 Best in List
The radio will select its parent using the "Automatic Parent Selection"
algorithm described above but it will limit the selection to the radios in the list.
The radio in the list with the lowest cost according to the algorithm will be
chosen as its parent.
 Follow List Priority
The radio will select its parent from the list giving preference to the first entry,
followed by the second entry, and so on.
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6.2.2 IGMP Settings
RLX2 radios support IGMP v1 and v2. The default operation of the RLX2 radios
is to have IGMP functionality enabled, although the user can disable IGMP
entirely. Additionally, the user can specify settings associated with IGMP filtering
and snooping. Unknown multicast addresses can be sent to all ports (flood) or to
none (filtered) by changing the IGMP Multicast Filtering option. The user can
specify whether the radio will generate IGMP queries, and configure the query
interval time.
By RFC specification, only one device on a network should generate IGMP
queries. As such, RLX2 radios will only send a query if another device has not
sent a query within its Query Interval setting, even if Query Generation is
enabled.
Field
IGMP Multicast Filtering
Default Propagation
Action
IGMP Query Generation
IGMP Query Interval
Multicast State Count
Save
Cancel
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Description
Disabling filtering will cause the radio flood multicast packets to all
ports.
Determines how to handle multicast addresses that are not in the
radio’s address table.
Enables or disables query generation from this radio.
Number of seconds between queries (if not pre-empted by a query
from another device).
Number of queries generated before a device is removed from the
multicast group on this radio if no response is received.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
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6.2.3 Rapid Spanning Tree Functionality
The software’s built-in Rapid Spanning Tree (RSTP) functionality enables the
setup of full redundancy between radios or other devices. Spanning Tree shuts
off ports as necessary to prevent loops. If loops are created in an Ethernet
network, packets can be circulated endlessly, consuming all the bandwidth and
making the network unusable.
Important: All radios in a network must have the same Spanning Tree configuration (enabled or
disabled.) Radios will not link if some of them have Spanning Tree enabled while others do not.
RSTP allows users to create truly redundant connections between any two points
in the network. The radios detect the redundant paths and keep one connection
alive for communications. If the primary connection fails for any reason, the
secondary connection is quickly transitioned to a state to forward packets,
allowing the network to adapt itself to handle problems without customer
intervention.
RSTP uses active communications between network devices to propagate
changes in the network and to cause transitions to occur much more quickly.
Because RSTP is an IEEE standard, RLX2 radios work in conjunction with wired
Ethernet switches to form a redundant network. Spanning Tree details are
described in the IEEE 802.1D series of specifications.
Each RSTP device (RLX2 Radio or Ethernet switch) communicates with other
RSTP devices in the network via packets called Bridge Protocol Data Units
(BPDUs). BPDUs are sent out each of the devices ports. In a wired switch this
would be from each of the Ethernet ports. In an RLX2 Radio, in addition to the
Ethernet port, each wireless link is considered a port. These BPDUs are the
communications means to allow each RSTP device in the network to make sure
that the proper connections still exist.
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In the following illustration, the RLX2 Radio has 4 RSTP "ports":
 Ethernet port (1)
 A port for its parent connection (2)
 A port for each of its two child connections (11 and 12).
BPDUs are sent out the port at a rate called the "Hello Time". The accepted
standard value for this is 2 seconds. If a radio (or any other RSTP device) does
not get a BPDU for 2 Hello Times, it assumes the RSTP device that had been
there is no longer available. It can then open an alternate path if one is available.
This process is much like the STP process. If other devices on the network are
not operating in rapid spanning tree mode, the radio will revert to normal
spanning tree operation on a per-port basis.
RSTP provides a performance enhancement over STP operation. By
comparison, the radio using the STP algorithm would revert its port to the
listening state, and then to the learning state, before returning to the forwarding
state. Each of these states takes at least 15 seconds, during which the STP
devices are listening for BPDUs to re-negotiate the network topology. The
advantage of using the RSTP functionality is that is uses active handshaking
between adjacent RSTP devices to re-negotiate the network topology. This
process takes one to two seconds.
Each RLX2 Radio contains a switch table, which tells it how to forward Ethernet
packets to get them to their proper destination. When the network topology
changes, the RLX2 Radio the Ethernet switch table is flushed immediately. This
allows it to pass traffic immediately over the new network topology and learn the
configuration in the process. Until the learning is complete, the packets are
broadcast to their destination. As each packet is seen and the switch table
rebuilds, the radios return to directing packets to their destinations.
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6.2.4 Spanning Tree Settings
Field
Enable Spanning Tree
Ethernet Edge Port
Bridge Times
Priority
Hello Time
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
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Description
Spanning Tree is enabled when this box is checked. Without spanning
tree, redundant connections might exist if multiple radio links are
created in parallel with each other. Redundant connections are
blocked only if spanning tree is enabled. Additionally, spanning tree is
used to flush the Ethernet switch table when the network topology
changes as described in the section on Automatic Parent Selection.
The default setting for Enable Spanning Tree is disabled. Note that
many network switches implement spanning tree functionality
themselves, which if enabled, will cause conflicts if Spanning Tree is
also enables in the radio. Check the documentation and settings for
the wired network equipment before enabling Spanning Tree in the
radios.
Because RSTP is an active protocol, it depends on communication
between RSTP devices. If no RSTP device is connected to the radio’s
Ethernet port, the handshake cannot take place. In this case RSTP
reverts to STP. This means that the Ethernet port will be forced to
adhere to the timer based transition protocol of STP.
Therefore on network transitions and power up, communications will
not be allowed over the Ethernet port for 30 to 45 seconds. This
setting is an indication that no redundant connections exist out this
port and communication can immediately be allowed. If for some
reason a BPDU is received on this port, the RSTP protocol will
negotiate properly and handle any possible redundant paths.
The recommended setting for Ethernet Edge Port is "Enabled".
Configures the timing intervals to use.
Determines who should be the root of the RSTP. The RSTP device
with the lowest priority becomes the root. The accepted standard value
for this is 32768. If wired switches exist in the network that support
RSTP, they should always be allowed to be the root.
Set this value to 32769 to prevent the radio from being the root over a
wired switch. Use this setting when a radio is configured to be a
Master.
Set this value to 32770 when the radio is configured to be a Repeater.
In this way, if only RLX2 radios exist in the network, the Master radio
will become the root.
Rate at which BPDUs are sent out. The industry standard is 2
seconds.
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Field
Max Age
Forward Delay
Path Costs
Wireless
Ethernet
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Description
Measures the age of the received protocol information recorded for a
port and ensures this information is discarded when its age limit
exceeds the value to the maximum age parameter recorded by the
switch. The timeout value for this timer is the maximum age parameter
of the switches.
Monitors the time spent by a port in the learning and listening states.
The timeout value is the forward delay parameter of the switches.
RSTP and STP algorithms use a cost to determine which connections
should be used. The "spanning tree" is formed by determining the
least cost paths from any RSTP device back to the root.
Gives preference to a wired connection, set the Wireless cost to 200.
Gives preference to a wired Ethernet connection, set the Ethernet cost
to 100.
Multiple master radios can be defined on the same network. If one master radio
goes down, any radios linked to it can switch over to the other master, so the
networked radios remain connected and transmitting. In order to be redundant,
the two masters should typically be on the same segment—in other words, they
should be wired together into the same switch. These two masters can be
assigned different channels to increase network bandwidth, but they must be
assigned the same SSID.
Also, because all radios are repeaters, each radio can be configured to reach a
master radio via multiple repeater paths. If a repeater goes down, the linked
radios can use a different path to get back to a master radio.
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6.2.5 Advanced Settings
It is important to allow many industrial protocols to communicate properly over
the RLX2 radios. The standard 802.11 AP operation for transmitting broadcast
messages is to accumulate them and transmit them only on specific time
intervals. This allows clients that are in power-save mode to wake up at the
synchronized time interval and receive the broadcast packets. However, the
power-save mode is rarely used in industrial networks.
Additionally, many industrial protocols utilize multicast traffic, which is sent as
broadcast messages over the wireless network. By enabling immediate
broadcasting, these multicast messages are not delayed by the wait for the next
time interval to occur before they can be transmitted. This results in improved
network performance.
The settings on this form also allow the configuration of the transmission rate and
broadcast mode to optimize this radio's use on an industrial network.
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Field
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
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Description
Max Data Rate
The maximum data rate for the RLX2-IHA, -IHG, and –IHW radios is
specified in megabits per second. The allowed values are shown
above. The default maximum is 54 Mbits/sec.
Normally the Max Data Rate should be set to the maximum value.
However under poor operating conditions, reliability may improve if the
Max Data Rate is reduced.
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Field
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
Description
Max Data Rate
The maximum data rate for the RLX2-IHNF radio is specified in terms
of a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) index value. This
specification is unique to IEEE 802.11n devices. The actual maximum
data rate depends on several factors as shown in the following table:
MCS
Index
10
11
12
13
14
15
Active
Antennas
2 or 3
2 or 3
2 or 3
2 or 3
2 or 3
2 or 3
2 or 3
2 or 3
802.11n mode,
MBits/sec
800 ns
400 ns
GI
GI
6.50
7.20
13.00
14.40
19.50
21.70
26.00
28.90
39.00
43.30
52.00
57.80
58.50
65.00
65.00
72.20
13.00
14.40
26.00
28.90
39.00
43.30
52.00
57.80
78.00
86.70
104.00
115.60
117.00
130.00
130.00
144.40
802.11n wide mode,
MBits/sec
800 ns
400 ns
GI
GI
13.50
15.00
30.00
27.00
45.00
40.50
60.00
54.00
90.00
81.00
120.00
108.00
135.00
121.50
150.00
135.00
30.00
27.00
60.00
54.00
90.00
81.00
120.00
108.00
180.00
162.00
240.00
216.00
270.00
243.00
300.00
270.00
Only MCS rates from 0 through 7 are available with one antenna,
which is the default configuration. To select MCS rates of 8 and above,
configure the Active Antennas to be A,C or A,B,C. (See Active
Antennas below.)
The maximum throughput also depends on the 802.11n Mode as
configured in the Radio Network Settings section of the main
webpage. See section 6.2. Throughput in 802.11n wide mode is
approximately twice that of 802.11n mode.
The radio will automatically select the Guard Interval (GI) based on
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Field
Max Basic Rate
Immediate Broadcasting
Block General Probe
Requests
Range
TX Power Attenuation
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Description
current operating conditions. The system attempts to use a 400
microsecond Guard Interval, but will fall back to an 800 microsecond
Guard Interval if excessive data corruption is detected. The radio will
periodically attempt to resume using a 400 microsecond Guard Interval
as conditions improve. A 400 microsecond Guard Interval results in
about 11% more throughput than using a 800 microsecond guard
interval. The user has no control of the Guard Interval.
As seen in the table above, absolutely best throughput requires
802.11n wide mode, more than one antenna, and a RF environment
capable of supporting a 400 microsecond Guard Interval.
In addition to the Data Rate setting which controls generic data traffic,
the Basic Rate setting adjusts the rate at which control packets such
as Beacons and ACKs are sent at as well as packets that need to go
to the whole network such as Broadcasts. Because these packets are
intended for the whole network, the Max Basic Rate setting of the
Master is advertised to each of the radios in the network through
Beacons. Each radio, other than the Master, then inherits the Max
Basic Rate setting of the Master. Therefore the setting only needs to
be made in the Master radio. The setting in each of the other radios is
disregarded.
Forward multicast traffic immediately, rather than waiting for specific
time intervals.
Do not respond to general probe requests that are not specific to the
radio's SSID.
Allows the radios to account for round trip delays. The Range settings
should be the same in all radios in the network and should be at least
large enough to account for the length of any links. However,
increasing the Range beyond what is necessary can cause a slight
decrease in throughput. The default Long range is 25km, which is valid
for all operating modes of all radios.
Allows reduction of the radio’s output power.. The range of attenuation
is from 0 to 18 dB. Radios are shipped from ProSoft configured for
maximum output power. This is either the maximum output power of
the radio itself, or the maximum power allowed by country for which
the radio is configured. However, it is possible to attach an antenna
with so much gain that the maximum legal allowed radiated power is
exceeded. This control allows the reduction of power when using such
antennas so that output power is still within legal limits. See section
8.4 for information on output power regulations by the FCC for the
USA.
Note that higher gain antennas provide better performance in both
receive and transmit functions, while output power only increases
transmit performance.
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Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
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Field
Description
Active Antennas
This control is only available on the RLX2-IHNF radios. The default is
set to A Only. The other options are A, C (for two antennas) and A, B,
C for three antennas. Note that if two antennas are used, they must be
attached to the ANT A and ANT C antenna connectors.
SD Auto Write Enable
SD Auto Clone Enable
MIMO antennas generally will have three connections so all three
antenna ports must be activated. In general, operation with three
antenna ports will give best performance. When more than one
antenna port is active, the radio will monitor the signal appearing at all
antenna ports and dynamically select the port(s) with the best signal.
However, there are situations where performance may improve if
fewer antenna ports are active. If radios are very close together
(typically a few feet), all three antenna ports will receive essentially
identical signal strengths and the radio may continuously change
antenna ports, resulting in degraded performance.
Enables the unit to write a copy of its Configuration to the SD Card
whenever new settings are saved from any pages of the unit's web
interface. Previous Configuration files are renamed with a unique file
name which allows auditing of changes made to the unit's settings.
Enables the unit's Clone function. On power up if an SD Card is
present that has a Configuration file different from the unit's current
Configuration the unit will adopt the settings from the SD Card. If the
Configuration matches or there is no Configuration file on the SD Card
then no action is taken. On inserting an SD Card into a running unit, if
the Configuration file found on the SD Card will result in the unit's
settings being changed on Powerup or Reset, a warning is indicated
by flashing the Signal Strength, MOD and NET LEDs.
In order to save this control as enabled, either an SD Card must not be
present, or the SD Auto Write Enable control must also be checked
when saving. If these conditions are not present the control will be
disabled before saving, to prevent the unit from reverting back to a
Configuration file on the SD Card after reset.
To adopt the Configuration file on an SD Card when this control is
already enabled, simply insert the SD Card and power cycle the unit. If
this control is not enabled, first enable and save the setting without the
SD Card inserted and then insert the SD Card and power cycle the
unit.
Write SD Card
Save
Cancel
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
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NOTE: Do not enable Auto Write if you do not want the active
Configuration file on the SD Card to be replaced when the unit adopts
and saves the SD Card's current Configuration file.
Immediately writes a copy of the unit's Configuration file to the SD
Card, independent of the Auto Write check box setting. Note that the
configuration files are in a binary format so sensitive data (e.g.
passwords, encryption keys) cannot be easily read from the files.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
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6.2.6 Serial Port Settings
This configuration page opens when the Serial Port Settings button is clicked on
the Radio Configuration form.
Use this page to configure the way serial data packets are encapsulated and
transmitted over an Ethernet network.
Field
Serial Encapsulation
Mode
Single IP Address
Range of IP Addresses
Remote Port Number
Local Port Number
Page 76 of 161
Description
None: No serial data encapsulation.
UDP: In UDP mode, programs on networked computers can be used
to send short messages or Datagrams. Once enabled, the serial port
will be used to transmit and receive packets.
NOTE: In UDP mode if a multicast group address is entered in this
field then packets are sent to that address.
TCP Server: In TCP Server mode, only connections from this address
will be accepted. Once the session is established, the serial port is
enabled to transmit and receive packets.
NOTE: To accept connections from any IP address the field should be
set to 0.0.0.0.
TCP Client: In TCP Client mode, a TCP connection will be established
with this address.
When the session is established, the serial port is enabled to transmit
and receive packets.
IP Address or URL of the radio that should receive encapsulated serial
protocol packets.
Up to 4 IP Address ranges for radios that should receive encapsulated
serial protocol packets.
Remote UDP port number to use for encapsulated serial data
transmission.
Local UDP port number to use for encapsulated serial data
transmission.
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Field
Delineation Method
EOL Delineator
EOL Time Gap
Packet Rate
(milliseconds)
Baud Rate
Data Bits
Parity
Flow Control
Stop Bits
Save
Cancel
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Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
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Description
None: All data received between packet delineation events is sent to
the remote node in a single network frame.
Time Gap: The minimum time gap between characters that is to be
interpreted as a delineator for a packet. Configure this value in the
EOL Time Gap field.
Character: The particular character sequence in the stream of
characters that indicates the delineator for the packet. Configure this
value in the EOL Delineator field.
Available when the selected Delineation Method is Character. Choose
the type of delineator to use from the dropdown list:
Available delineation types are:
Decimal Hex
Description
Type
Any string of characters
Use Text
13
0D
Carriage Return
CR
27
1B
Escape
ESC
10
0A
Line Feed (New Line / nl)
LF
00
00
Null
Null
32
20
Space
Spacebar
09
09
Horizontal Tab
Tab
Available when the selected Delineation Method is Time Gap; This
value configures the length of time in milliseconds that must elapse
after a character is received (from the local attached device) before
that character marks the end of a packet.
NOTE: the smallest value this field can be set to will be limited by the
device and is platform dependent.
Sets the minimum time gap that will be interpreted as an inter-packet
space. When detected the characters received up to that point will
constitute a single packet and will be sent to the remote node. Units:
microseconds. Values: 1,000 to 500,000.
Baud rate on the radio must match the baud rate on the connected
serial device.
Number of data bits (5, 6, 7 or 8). The data bits on the radio must
match the data bits on the connected serial device.
Parity (None, Even, Odd, 1 or 0). The parity on the radio must match
the parity on the connected serial device.
Flow control (handshaking) mode (None or Hardware). The
handshaking mode on the radio must match the handshaking mode on
the connected serial device.
Stop bits (1 or 2). The stop bits on the radio must match the stop bits
on the connected serial device.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
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6.3
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Security settings
The following security settings can be configured:
Description
WPA-AES is the preferred encryption method. It contains the latest
updates to the 802.11 standards for best security. However, some
legacy devices do not yet support these updates. Therefore, a few
combinations of legacy methods can be selected.
Available encryption types are:

None (not recommended)

WPA-AES - Latest security setting using WPA (pre-shared key)
authentication and AES encryption.

WPA-TKIP - Security setting using WPA (pre-shared key)
authentication and TKIP encryption.

WEP128 - Legacy security setting using a 128-bit key and WEP
encryption.

WEP64 - Legacy security setting using a 64-bit key and WEP
encryption.
WPA
pass phrase of between eight and 63 normal keyboard
WPA phrase (page 79)
characters.
Five normal text characters in the WEP key field
WEP key (page 80)
Restricts connections by MAC address.
MAC Filter (page 81)
Opens the MAC filter (page 81) form, allowing the specification of the
Edit Filter
MAC addresses of devices to allow in the network.
Hide Network SSID (page Hides the Network SSID (Network Name) from other 802.11 users.
Clients can connect to the "hidden" network by typing the Network
81)
SSID.
Field
Encryption type (page
79)
The following topics describe each security setting in more detail.
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User Manual
6.3.1 Encryption type
The preferred encryption type is WPA (WiFi Protected Access). Select WEP
(wired equivalency protocol) for use with an older client radio that only has WEP
encryption. For compatibility with clients that do not support WPA, select
WPA+WEP128 (bits) or WPA+WEP64 (bits) as the encryption type. The older
clients can connect to an access point using the WEP setting, but new clients will
use WPA and the RLX2 radios will still use WPA among themselves.
IMPORTANT: If WPA+WEP is selected, some clients using WPA might not be able to connect
unless a WEP key other than number 1 is used, due to limitations in these clients. In such cases,
set a WEP key other than key 1 and set this same key in all clients that are using WEP. See WEP
key (page 80).
WEP is the original security protocol used by 802.11 networks, but WPA offers
better protection against attacks, for several reasons: WPA distances the
encryption key from the actual data by performing several algorithms to the key
before generating the encrypted data, it performs dynamic key management by
changing keys frequently, and it performs message integrity checks to prevent
forgery and replay.
Selecting WEP 128, WEP 64, or None (no encryption) as the encryption type is
possible, but none of these settings are recommended.
Note: If an RLX2 radio is set to use WPA+WEP, it will connect to other radios set to WPA only or
WPA+WEP, but it will not communicate with radios set to WEP only. Likewise, an RLX2 radio in
client mode with WPA+WEP selected will not connect to an access point with WEP only selected.
6.3.2 WPA phrase
To use WPA encryption on packets sent between the radios, enter a WPA pass
phrase of between eight and 63 normal keyboard characters. This phrase
automatically generates an encryption key of 128 hexadecimal characters. This
field is only available if WPA encryption type is selected.
The default WPA-AES Phrase is 'passphrase'.
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6.3.3 WEP key
A key is a set of hexadecimal (hex) or ASCII characters used to encrypt data.
This field is only available when using WEP encryption type. Be sure to record
the WEP encryption key to retrieve if needed.
To create a 64-bit WEP key, enter five normal text characters in the WEP key
field, which converts the characters automatically to 10 hex digits. Alternatively,
enter 10 hex digits (0 to 9, a to f, A to F) directly in the WEP key field.
To create a 128-bit key, enter 13 normal text characters, which convert to 26 hex
digits, or enter 26 hex digits (0 to 9, a to f, A to F) directly.
Note: Clients often support more than one WEP key. Packets received can be decrypted using any
one of the keys if programmed, but packets are always transmitted with the "default" WEP key
number. If a transmit key number is set on the RLX2 radio, make sure all other radios and clients
have this key programmed. To set keys other than key 1 on some clients using Windows,
Advanced settings may be used.
Programming more than one key on the RLX2 radio requires setting the key
number to the key, entering the key, and saving the changes. Repeat these steps
for each key to program, saving after each one. Finally, change to the desired
transmit key number if necessary and save again (If "****" remains in the key
field, the previously programmed key will not be changed when changes are
applied)
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6.3.4 MAC filter
Field
Add MAC
Delete
Address
Top
Next / Prev
Upload File
Browse
Save
Cancel
Description
Enter the MAC address to add.
Deletes the selected MAC address from the list.
List of MAC addresses configured.
Displays the top of the list.
Navigates up and down through the address list.
To assign the same list of MAC addresses to several radios
conveniently, open a text editor such as Notepad.exe. Enter addresses
in hexadecimal format, one MAC address per line, including periods.
When finished, save the document. In the MAC Filter window, click
Browse to select the text file, click Upload File to upload the list of
MAC addresses.
Navigates to a prepared text file of MAC addresses on the appropriate
drive and folder, and click the Upload File button.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
6.3.5 Hide Network SSID
If the radio network is to be hidden from other 802.11 users, click the Hide
Network SSID check box in each radio to be hidden. With the SSID hidden, the
network does not show up when other clients scan for an access point. Clients
can still connect to the "hidden" network by typing the Network SSID.
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6.4
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Radio access settings
The following fields appear in the Security Settings area on the right side of the
Radio Configuration window.
In order to configure or diagnose a radio using its built-in Web server or SNMP
agent, both the computer and the radio must have IP addresses. These IP
addresses must be on the same subnetwork. An IP address is only needed to
configure the radio and view its diagnostic settings. Otherwise, the address is
unnecessary.
Field
Obtain IP address DHCP
Use the following IP
address
IP Address
Subnet Mask
Default Gateway
Primary DNS
Secondary DNS
SNMP button
Login Password button
Description
Allows the radio to obtain its IP address from a DHCP server.
Specifies a Static IP address to the radio. Enter the IP address
information in the following fields.
Use an IP address that will not interfere with any other devices on the
network. Request a block of IP addresses to use from the Network
Administrator.
Subnet Mask provided by the Network Administrator.
Default Gateway address provided by the Network Administrator.
Primary DNS address provided by the Network Administrator.
Secondary DNS address provided by the Network Administrator.
Opens the SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) Agent
settings form. Use this form to configure access to radio network
settings through an SNMP agent.
Configures the Login Password for the radio. The default password is
"password". Change this password and keep a record of it in a safe
place, to protect the radio from being reconfigured by unauthorized
users.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Control Protocol) is a service provided by a server
(typically a router or a firewall) on a local area network. Devices on a network
that supports DHCP can request and receive an IP address from the DHCP
server. RLX2 radios support DHCP; by default, they attempt to obtain an IP
address from a DHCP server.
If a DHCP server is not available, the radio will not be able to acquire an IP
address automatically. Therefore, assign an IP address, subnet mask and
default gateway to the radio so that it can communicate on the network.
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Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
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Assign a Static (fixed or permanent) IP address to the radio to make it easier to
identify and configure the radio. Static IP addresses are particularly useful when
configuring radios to serve as Access Points, or for radios that must be
accessible through a firewall.
A detailed discussion of TCP/IP networking is beyond the scope of this manual.
Refer to the following Microsoft knowledgebase article for more information:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/164015
6.4.1 SNMP Agent settings
SNMP is a network management protocol that is often used with TCP/IP and
Ethernet. As an alternative to using the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility,
changing radio settings and viewing diagnostics can be done in an SNMP
manager application.
Field
Enable
Allow Any Manager
Allow IP
Community String
Permission
Read only
Read/Write
Save
Cancel
Description
Enables the following SNMP Agent settings.
Allows any user to change the radio settings from any computer using
SNMP.
Restricts access to an SNMP manager with a particular IP address.
Enter the IP address in the Allow IP field.
Enter a "community string" (essentially a password) that a manager
must use to access the radio’s SNMP agent.
Select the permission level to assign to this radio.
An SNMP Agent can view but cannot modify radio settings.
An SNMP Agent can view and modify radio settings.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
The RLX2 SNMP agent supports SNMP protocol version 1.4 and 2 MIBs:
RFC12133-MIB (partial; internet.mgmt.MIB-2.system, .interfaces, .snmp)
ROMAP-MIB (included on the DVD; internet.private.enterprises.romap)
It also supports a selection of standard SNMP traps, including Cold Start, which
is sent when the radio initializes.
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6.4.2 Change password
Field
Old
New
Repeat
Save
Cancel
Description
Enter the current password in this field. The default password is
"password" (lower case, no quotes). This entry must exactly match the
current password, otherwise the change will be rejected.
Enter the new password in this field. Passwords are case sensitive.
Confirm the new password in this field. This entry must exactly match
the password entered in the "New" field, otherwise the change will be
rejected.
Saves the changes and updates the radio configuration.
Discards the changes without updating the radio configuration.
Any alphanumeric value between one and 31 characters can be entered. The
password is case-sensitive.
If the password cannot be found, changes the radio settings cannot be done. To
revert back to the default password, see the Troubleshooting section.
6.5
Apply Changes
Click the Apply Changes button to save the changes after editing radio
configuration in order for those changes to take effect. When changes are
applied, the radio will shut down and restart using the new settings.
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6.6
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics
User Manual
Cancel Changes
Click Cancel Changes to discard any settings made during this session.
Note: This button only applies to changes made in the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic window.
Changes made to individual configuration forms (for example, Spanning Tree, Parent Link, and
SNMP Agent settings) take effect when the Save button is clicked on each of those forms.
6.7
Factory Defaults
Click the Factory Defaults button to reset the radio to the default settings.
Important: This action discards all the radio configuration settings.
A prompt to confirm this action will appear before changes take place.
6.8
DFS Support
Some channels in the 5 GHz band are shared with radar and must adhere to
Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) rules. This means that if the radio detects
the presence of radar on its operating frequency, it must automatically change to
another frequency.
6.8.1 Master Radio Operations
If radar is detected on an operating channel, transmissions must cease within the
required Channel Closing Transmission Time, and must move to a new channel
within the required Channel Move Time. Before transmitting on a new DFS
channel that has not been previously checked for radar, the Master radio must
monitor the channel for the Channel Availability Check Time before transmitting.
Operations cannot return to a channel where radar was detected for at least the
Non-Occupancy Period. The values for these parameters are noted in the table
below:
Parameter
Channel Availability
Check Time
Channel Move Time
Channel Closing
Transmission Time
Non-Occupancy Period
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FCC Value
ETSI Value
60 seconds
60 seconds
ETSI Value
5.600 – 5.650 GHz
(Channels 120, 124, &
128)
10 minutes
10 seconds (12
seconds for “long
pulse” radar
200 milliseconds (plus
up to 60 milliseconds
over 10 seconds)
30 minutes
10 seconds
10 seconds
1 second
1 second
30 minutes
30 minutes
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If a Master radio detects radar, it issues a channel change announcement to all
Clients and Repeaters in the network. Then it moves to a new channel within the
Channel Move Time. (Typically, this move time is 500 milliseconds or less.) If the
selected channel was not previously checked for the presence of radar, the
Master radio must do so for the Channel Availability Check Time before it can
begin to transmit. If the newly-selected channel is not a DFS channel, or if the
channel was previously monitored for radar since the radio was powered on,
transmissions can begin immediately.
During the Channel Availability Check Time, a radio blinks all three amber Signal
Strength LEDS approximately once per second. If radar is detected on the new
channel during the Channel Availability Check Time, the Master randomly selects
another channel and begins the process again.
If a Repeater in a network detects radar, it will notify the Master to change
channels.
6.8.2 DFS Auto Select
One of the Master channel selection options is DFS Auto Select.
With this selection the radio randomly selects a DFS channel for operation. The
actual channel in operation is always shown in the Current Channel display:
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RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
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RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
In This Chapter






Primary radio functions .......................................................................... 88
File Menu............................................................................................... 89
Operations Menu ................................................................................... 91
Dialogs Menu ........................................................................................ 97
View Menu........................................................................................... 102
Help Menu ........................................................................................... 112
The IH Browser finds any radio connected to the network. It can also see basic
settings and change the IP address. Access to the radio’s Web page can be
done. For more information, see Primary radio functions (page 100).
The List view (shown in the illustration) appears with a list of any radios on the
same network as the computer running the IH Browser. If a known radio cannot
be seen, click the Scan (page 902) button in the tool bar or select Scan from the
File menu.
The preceding illustration shows the List View. Refer to Topology view (page
106) to see alternate views.
To clear all the radios from the list, click the Erase button in the tool bar or select
Clear from the File menu. Refreshing the list is done by clicking Scan.
If there is trouble viewing radios in the IH Browser, see Troubleshoot missing
radios (page 46).
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7.1
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Primary radio functions
Performing the following primary functions on any listed radio is done by rightclicking the radio name.
Connect (page 92): Log in to the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility to
configure a radio or check diagnostics.
Assign IP (page 37, page 92): Assign a temporary IP address to a radio.
Update Firmware (page 93): Update the version of firmware the radio uses.
Start Ping Session (page 94):
Wireless Clients (page 97): View a list of client radios
Ethernet Nodes (page 98): View a list of wired Ethernet nodes connected to the
network
Scan List (page 99): View a list of all the radios detected on the network
(including those from other vendors)
Port Table (page 100):
Event Log (page 100):
Properties (page 101): View the selected radio’s properties.
In addition, there are more options in the File menu.
 Print either a list of the radios' properties or a topology view.
 Change how the IH Browser scans for radios.
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7.2
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File Menu
The following commands are available on the File menu:










Scan Setup (page 89)
Scan (page 90)
Clear (page 90)
Import (page 90)
Export (page 90)
Freeze (page 90)
Print (page 90)
Print Preview (page 91)
Print Setup (page 91)
Exit (page 91)
7.2.1 Scan Setup
The Scan Setup command allows the configuration of settings that govern how
the IH Browser scans for radios. In the top field of the Scan Setup dialog box,
adjust how often the IH Browser program automatically scans for radios. Enter a
value in seconds.
In the New address/range fields, the program scan type can be adjusted for
radios. By default, the program sends a broadcast message to all the radios at
the same time, looking for a response. Broadcasts are limited to a local network,
and will not be passed through a router.
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If there is a router between the PC running the IH Browser and the radio to be
scanned, the IP address of the radio or a range of addresses can be added to
the scan list. At each interval determined by the scan rate, each IP address is
individually queried.
7.2.2 Scan
The IH Browser automatically scans for all active radios on the network at a
regular interval, use the Scan command in the File menu to look for active radios
at any time.
7.2.3 Clear
Clears (deletes) all entries from the IH Browser window.
7.2.4 Import
Imports an XML file created by the Export command in the IH Browser.
7.2.5 Export
Creates and saves an XML file containing the current configuration and status of
all radios discovered by the IH Browser. Use this command under the direction of
ProSoft Technical Services, for troubleshooting purposes.
7.2.6 Freeze
Temporarily stops the display from updating. This command is useful for studying
network topology and performance without the distraction of radios and other
devices appearing and disappearing from the screen.
7.2.7 Print
Prints the contents of the IH Browser window. Depending on the view selected,
the radio properties or a topology view can be printed.
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7.2.8 Print Preview
Displays a preview of the contents of the IH Browser window. Use this to adjust
the placement of elements so that they do not span page boundaries.
7.2.9 Print Setup
Displays the standard Window Print Setup dialog box.
7.2.10 Exit
Closes the IH Browser.
7.3
Operations Menu
The following commands are available on the Operations Menu:




Connect (page 92)
Assign IP (page 37, page 92)
Update Firmware (page 93)
Start Ping Session (page 94)
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7.3.1 Connect
To connect to the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility and change radio
settings, double-click the radio listing in the IH Browser after it has been assigned
an IP address (either manually or with DHCP). Alternatively, the Connect option
in the AP Operations menu can be selected. Enter the password to log in to the
radio.
7.3.2 Assign IP
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If the radio is connected to a network with a DHCP server, the radio may already
have an IP address assigned to it. If no address appears, double-click the radio
listing in the IH Browser or select Assign IP in the AP Operations menu. In the
next window, click OK to accept the temporary IP address, subnet mask, and
default gateway. If necessary, a particular IP address can be entered (see Radio
Access settings (page 82)). After an IP address is assigned, configuring the
radios can be done in the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility (page 48).
7.3.3 Update Firmware
"Firmware" is the program that runs in the RadioLinx® 802.11abg Industrial
Hotspot that allows it to communicate and exchange data between devices,
using the radio as a network connection. Different versions of the firmware
communicate with other radios in different ways, and provide different levels of
functionality.
In order for the RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot radio to communicate with other
RLX2 devices, all radios on the network must use the same firmware version.
To change the firmware version of the radio:
Start RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser.
Open the Operations menu, and then choose Update Firmware.
Enter the password for the radio. This is the same password used to log into
the radio from the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility (page 48).
Click the Browse button to locate the Image File (firmware version) to update.
Both versions of firmware are available both on the DVD that came with in the
box with the radio, and at our web site at www.prosoft-technology.com
Click Update to begin copying the new firmware to the radio. Do not
disconnect the cable or turn off power to the radio during this operation.
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7.3.4 Ping Device
A Ping Session allows traffic to run over the radio network between any two
computers running the IH Browser. With it the user can monitor their network
over time.
To start the ping session, enable "Show Ping Stations" on the View menu, and
then highlight one of the other computers visible in the IH Browser. The session
then starts automatically and the Ping Results dialog box opens.
This dialog box displays statistics on the minimum, maximum and average
latency between two points on the network.
Ping Options dialog box
The Ping Options dialog box opens from the Show Options button on the Ping
Results (page 94) dialog box. Use this dialog box to choose ping parameters,
logging options, and response to other stations.
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7.3.5 Start Sniffing Packets
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7.3.6 Start Logging Events
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7.4
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Dialogs Menu
The Dialogs menu contains the following commands:






Wireless Clients (page 97)
Ethernet Nodes (page 98)
Scan List (page 99)
Port Table (page 100)
Event Log (page 100)
Properties (page 101)
7.4.1 Wireless Clients
This dialog box opens when the Wireless Clients option is selected from the AP
Dialogs menu. Use this dialog box to see information about wireless clients
attached to the radio.
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7.4.2 Ethernet Nodes
This dialog box opens when the Ethernet Nodes option is selected from the AP
Dialogs menu.
Use this dialog box to see information about Ethernet devices attached to the
radios. The following illustration shows a list of Ethernet devices (by IP address
and MAC ID) attached to the Ethernet port of Tourmaline_14. In addition to the IP
and MAC ID it gives an age for each entry, which is the amount of time since a
packet has been heard from that device.
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7.4.3 Scan List
This dialog box opens when Scan List is selected in the AP Dialogs menu.
The scan list is a list of all the radios that this particular radio "hears" on this
channel (via beacons) even if it is not linked to it (different SSID or encryption).
This list shows the same information as the Available Parents list in the Radio
Configuration / Diagnostic Utility.
List entries marked with a "*" indicate the entry is an alternate path, which can
also be seen if the ‘parents' button is selected in the menu bar (blue lines will link
the radio to its alternate parents).
802.11 Access Point Detector
The RLX2 radio can be used as an installation tool to analyze the 802.11
environment and provide the user with information on choosing antenna location
and channel selection.
By using the table in the radio, mounting an RLX2 radio with its actual antenna
and use it to report information on every active 802.11 radio in the area can be
done. It will report:
 Each 802.11 AP heard including SSID
 Actual RSSI from each given in dBm
 Channel of each radio
Use this information to help choose a channel that is least utilized, or to select
appropriate antenna types and alignments to minimize interference.
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7.4.4 Port Table
This dialog box opens when Port Table is selected from the AP Dialogs menu.
The port table is a list of all the active ports on the radio. This list shows the same
information as the Port status (page 56) list in the Radio Configuration /
Diagnostic Utility. Each radio can have up to 34 active ports—one Ethernet
cable, one parent RF link, and up to 32 child RF links.
7.4.5 All 4 Dialogs
This menu entry simply opens all four “list” dialogs (Scan, Port, Ethernet node,
and Client.) The dialogs open on top of each other. Drag the windows to view
them completely.
7.4.6 Close All
This entry closes all “list” dialogs that are currently open.
7.4.7 Event Log
The event log allows the extraction of a log from the selected radio. The log
shows a history of the radio. The event log can be saved to a file for
troubleshooting purposes.
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Event Filter
The Event Filter dialog box allows the inclusion or exclusion of specific event
types from the event log.
7.4.8 Properties
This dialog box opens when a radio is selected the Properties option is selected
from the AP Dialogs menu.
To see additional properties, click the More button.
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View Menu
The View menu contains the following commands:












Tool Bar (page 102)
Status Bar (page 103)
List View (page 103)
Topology View (page 106)
Zoom In (page 108)
Zoom Out (page 108)
Zoom to Fit (page 109)
Show Ping Stations (page 109)
Show Parents (page 110)
Print Area (page 110)
Reset Columns (page 111)
Select Columns (page 111)
7.5.1 Toolbar
The Tool Bar near the top of the IH Browser window contains buttons to access
frequently used commands. Hold the mouse button over each button to view a
brief "Tool Tip" explaining the button’s use.
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7.5.2 Status Bar
The Status Bar at the bottom of the IH Browser displays additional information
about the currently selected menu command or tool bar button. On the right side
of the Status Bar, the status of the Caps Lock and Num Lock keys on the
computer keyboard can be seen. Use the corner of the status bar to drag and
resize the IH Browser window.
7.5.3 List View
List View shows a list of all the connected radios in a grid, arranged similarly to
data in a spreadsheet. Resize the window or scroll across to see all of the
available columns. Click between column headers and drag to the left or right to
resize columns. Click on column headers and drag to the left or right to re-order
columns.
Tip: Use the Reset Columns command to restore the column size and order to their default values.
The default columns and their left-to-right display order are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Name
MAC
IP
SSID
Security
Channel/Width
Signal (dBm)
Parent
RSTP
There are many columns of data that can be displayed. Columns can be hidden
as needed. Use Select Columns from the View Menu to choose the columns of
data to display.
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Available data columns in List View:
Name
Name of the object in the IH Browser. Names are
displayed in a nested tree order, with graphics on some
entries that can be identified:
Computer
Wired Network Interface
Master Radio
Repeater Radio
Mode
Client Radio
This Utility
Displayed for this instance of the IH Browser.
Utility
Displayed for other instances of IH Browsers running on
tother systems on the same network.
Local Interface
A network interface detected on the host computer
running this instance of the IH Browser.
Master
A radio on the network in Master mode.
Ethernet Client
A radio on the network in Client mode.
Repeater
A radio in the network in Repeater mode.
MAC
IP
Mask
Gateway
SSID
Connection
Signal (dBm)
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Physical Media Access Control (MAC) address of the
device. All ProSoft devices have a MAC address of the
form 00:0D:8D:XX:YY:ZZ
IP address assigned to the device.
Netmask of the device.
IP address of the network gateway for the device.
Service Set Identifier (SSID) is a name assigned to a
wireless network. Repeaters and Clients must be
configured with the same SSID to connect. Note that
Master radios typically advertise their presence by
broadcasting their SSID. However, SSID
announcements can be disabled so that other wireless
devices do not detect such Masters, If a Master is not
transmitting its SSID, this field will indicate Hidden
along with the SSID, for example ProSoft/hidden.
A Connection state is only shown for repeaters.
Scanning is shown while the radio is searching for a
master. Connected is shown for repeaters that have
linked to a master.
The signal strength, in dBm of a Repeater or Client
device’s link to a Master. Master devices do not report
signal strength.
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Hops
Parent
Associations
Bridges
Tx (kbits/sec)
Rx (kbits/sec)
FW Ver
Boot Ver
Image
Compression
Ethernet
Channel/Width
Security
Misses
RSTP
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The number of wireless connections a device is away
from the wired connection of a Master. This value is
always 1 for a Master radio. For Repeater devices is it a
minimum of 2, but can be higher if there are additional
hops to the Master. Client devices do not display a hop
value.
The MAC address of the Parent radio to which this
Repeater or Client is linked. Not shown for Master
devices.
The number of network elements to which a radio has a
wireless connection.
The number of device to which this device has a
wireless connection. For example, if one Repeater and
one Client are linked to a Master, the Master shows 2 in
this field, and the other devices show 1.
This is a moving average of transmit throughput in
kilobits/second. It does not count packet overhead,
only payload data.
This is a moving average of receive throughput in
kilobits/second. It does not count packet overhead,
only payload data.
Firmware version number. For Network interfaces, this
is the version of the communication engine in the IH
Browser. For radios, this is the version of the firmware
code in the radio. This is not the version of the image
file installed into the radio (for that information see
Image Ver described below). .
For wired network interfaces, this is the version of the
network communication engine in the IH Browser (e.g.
WinXP, WinVista.) For radios, this is the version of the
bootloader code in the radio.
This is the version of the firmware image that the radio
is currently running. It can be primary or secondary.
Each radio has two copies of operating firmware
installed, and the radio will automatically transition from
one to the other if one of them becomes corrupted.
Firmware images in the radio can be either compressed
or uncompressed.
The Ethernet status is Attached for a radio connected to
a wired Ethernet network, otherwise Detached.
The operating channel and channel width. The width
value will always be 20MHz except on 802.11n devices
where it can be 20MHz or 40MHz. Example: 48, 20 for
channel 48 with a 20 MHz channel width.
This indicates the encryption setting for the radio. Valid
setting are WPA/WPA2-AES; WPA/WPA2-TKIP;
WPA/WPA2-AES&TKIP; WPA-TKIP+WEP128;
WEP128; WEP64; and none.
This is the number of times the IH Browser has
unsuccessfully attempted to contact the device. Ideally
this number should always be zero.
This is the setting for RSTP in the radio. Allowed states
are Enabled, Disabled, and STP. The STP state is a
legacy “non-rapid” Spanning Tree option. All radios on a
network must have the same RSTP state to link
properly.
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Link Time
TX Rate
Temperature
Retries(%)
Uptime
Product
Image Ver
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
The link time of the device, for example 24d,13h,10m,
32s.
This is the current effective data rate of the device. This
may be slower than the configured nominal rate
because of retries or other environmental factors. For
802.11a/b/g devices, the data rate is expressed in
kilobits or megabits per second (e.g. 54Mb/s.) For
802.11n devices, the data is expressed in MCS rates
from 0 to 31 (e.g. MCS16.)
The internal temperature of the radio as measured on
the circuit board in degrees Celsius.
This value is the percentage of packets transmitted
more than once during the last five-second interval.
The amount of time the device has been running since
the last power cycle or reset. For example
1d,4h,13m,25s.
The type of RLX2 radio. The values can be RLX2-IHA,
RLX2-IHG, RLX2-IHFN, or RLX2-IHW.
This is the name the image file loaded into the radio. It
matches the Firmware label displayed on the main radio
webpage. For example, RLX2_v0016_M.
P State
7.5.4 Topology View
To see how radios are connected together in the network, select Topology View
from the View menu. The Topology view shows a diagram of the network’s
wireless connections. If a radio does not appear in the view, it is not connected to
the network. To change the way a radio is linked to the network, connect to it and
make changes through its Web page. For information on these settings, see
Parent Link settings (page 61).
In the topology view, double-click a radio to log in to the Radio Configuration /
Diagnostic Utility and change the radio’s settings. To view a radio’s properties,
right-click on a radio representation in the topology view and then select
Properties from the resulting menu.
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RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
User Manual
Refer to Topology View key (page 107) for an explanation of the symbols that
appear in this view.
Topology View key
For information on the options when right-clicking a radio icon, see IH Browser
options (page 85).
Master; always shown at the top
Radio linked to the network
Radio not linked; no parent
An Ethernet connection exists to the radio; does not
indicate the number of devices on the connection
Wireless clients (PCMCIA cards) are linked to this
radio; the number of clients linked is indicated by the
number of boxes
Signal strength; the width of the line is not calibrated
Alternate parents.
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
7.5.5 Zoom In
Use the ZOOM IN command in Topology View to enlarge the size of the items in
the IH Browser window.
7.5.6 Zoom Out
Use the ZOOM OUT command in Topology View to to reduce the size of the items
in the IH-Browser window.
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Industrial Hotspots
RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
User Manual
7.5.7 Zoom to Fit
Use the ZOOM TO FIT command in Topology View to change the size of the items
so that the entire network fits within the IH Browser window.
7.5.8 Show Ping Stations
Ping Stations are other computers running an instance of IH Browser. To test
latency between points on the network, select a ping station, open the
Operations menu, and then choose Start Ping Session.
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
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7.5.9 Show Parents - All
The Show Parents function displays the possible alternate parents for a repeater
graphically in the topology view. The link from the repeater to its current parent
will be shown in red. If the repeater can hear other radios in the network, links to
those radios will be shown in blue. This gives a graphical representation of the
number of alternate paths available to a radio should its parent link go down. A
detailed list of each of the alternates can be seen by right-clicking and selecting
‘Scan List'. This list, though, shows not only radios in the same network but also
802.11 radios on other networks.
By selecting All, alternate paths for all repeaters in the network will be shown. By
selecting One, alternate paths will be shown only for the one repeater that is
currently selected.
Show Parents – All is only available in the Topology View.
7.5.10 Show Parents - One
This is similar to Show Parents – All except that only the current parent is shown.
7.5.11 Print Area
Use the Print Area command to show the border around the area of the IH
Browser window. To print, use the Print command on the File menu.
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Industrial Hotspots
RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
User Manual
7.5.12 Reset Columns
Use the Reset Columns command to restore the column size and order to their
default values. A prompt will appear to confirm this action.
7.5.13 Select Columns
Use the Select Columns command to display the data fields shown in List View.
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7.6
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Help Menu
The Help menu contains the following commands:



Help Topics (page 112)
Help Index
About the IH Browser (page 113)
7.6.1 Help Topics
Most of the information needed to help use the IH Browser is provided in an
online help system. It is available whenever the application is running.
To view the online help, start the IH Browser, open the Help menu, and choose
Help Topics.
The IH Browser Help System
The IH Browser has an online help system that works like a web browser. Each
dialog box has its own page in the help system, which explains each item on the
dialog box.
To view the online help, open the Help menu and choose Help Topics.
Many help pages have links that are underlined. Click the underlined text to
"follow a link" and open a help page.
The Search tab is used to search for words or phrases inside a help file. Click a
topic from the list to view the help page.
The Index button shows an index of keywords. Type the first few letters of a
keyword to jump directly to a topic. Each keyword is linked to one or more help
topics.
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RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser
User Manual
7.6.2 About RLX IH Browser
Use this command to view version information about the IH Browser. This
information may be needed when contacting ProSoft Technical Services.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
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User Manual
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Reference
User Manual
Reference
In This Chapter






8.1
Product Overview ................................................................................ 115
Compatibility with ProSoft RLXIB Series Radios ................................. 117
Dimensional Drawing .......................................................................... 118
Master Channel/Frequency Table ....................................................... 120
FCC Emission Regulations.................................................................. 121
Radio hardware ................................................................................... 123
Product Overview
The RLX2 radio is an industrial high-speed Ethernet radio. Use it in place of
Ethernet cables to save money, extend range, and make connections that may
not otherwise be feasible. The radio operates as a wireless Ethernet switch. Any
data that can be sent over a wired network can also be sent over the radio.
The RLX2 radio series is certified for unlicensed operation in the United States,
Canada and Europe at 2.4 and 5 GHz. With approved high-gain antennas, the
radios can achieve distances of over 5 miles line-of-sight between them. Multiple
repeaters can be used to extend this range to far greater distances.
A highly reliable wireless network can be developed by creating redundant (page
69) wireless paths. Multiple master (page 58) radios can be installed without any
special programming or control. Repeater (page 58) radios can connect to any
master at any time; if one master goes down, the repeater connects to another.
Likewise, if a repeater goes down, any repeater that was connected to it can
reconnect to a different repeater, keeping the network intact. Create large, selfhealing tree-like networks can be done in this fashion. Fully redundant paths are
possible because the Spanning Tree (page 69) protocol in the radios disables
and enables paths as necessary to avoid Ethernet loops, which would otherwise
halt communications.
In addition to acting as a switch, every master or repeater radio in an RLX2
wireless network can simultaneously act as an 802.11 a, b or g access point.
This allows 802.11 WiFi clients to connect and roam between radios for
monitoring of the wireless network or general network access. The RLX2 has a
special client mode (page 37) that allows connection of any Ethernet device to
any existing 802.11 a, b or g access point, regardless of the brand (An example
of an 802.11 client is a laptop with a WLAN card).
Note: Wi-Fi is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance, used to describe the underlying technology of
wireless local area networks (WLAN) based on the IEEE 802.11 specifications.
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
A high level of security is inherent with AES (Advanced Encryption Standard)
encryption. TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) is also available. If
necessary, adding WEP128 or WEP64 (Wired Equivalent Protocol) encryption in
addition to AES or TKIP for clients that do not support AES can be done. A
simple Media Access Control (MAC) filter table restricts the radios or clients that
can link to a selected radio according to the MAC IDs entered in the table.
The radio is designed for industrial applications with a metal enclosure, DIN-rail
mounting, and shock and vibration tested to IEC 60068.
The RLX2 radio series is easy to use. Use the Radio Configuration / Diagnostic
Utility, which runs in a web browser, to configure the radio. Also, an SNMP
manager can be used for configuration. The radio comes with a Windows-based
utility called IH Browser. It finds all the radios on the network and lists
information about them. A topology view in the IH Browser shows how the
wireless network is linked together at any point in time. Firmware updates can be
done at anytime from anywhere on the network. This includes over the wireless
link or over the Internet.
ProSoft Technology radios can easily be installed into new or existing systems.
The software and manuals can be downloaded from the DVD or ProSoft
Technology’s web site at www.prosoft-technology.com.
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8.2
Reference
User Manual
Compatibility with ProSoft RLXIB Series Radios
The RLX2 series radios are 100% functionally compatible with ProSoft’s legacy
RLXIB-IHA, RLXIB-IHG, and RLXIB-IHW radio models. This allows customers with
RLXIB series radios to add RLX2 radios to their existing networks without any
reconfiguration of existing assets or obsolescence issues. The main differences in
the RLX2 series radios are the following improvements:
1 Different enclosure size for more efficient heat dissipation.
2 Faster, more efficient electronics that consume less power.
3 Gigabit Ethernet.
4 MicroSD memory cards for configuration data storage.
5 Internal temperature sensor.
The RLX2 series radios will acquire additional functionality as new firmware features
are added. These new features will not be ported to the RLXIB radios, but the RLX2
radios will continue to work with RLXIB radios using their existing functionality.
The RLX2-IHNF is an 802.11n device that does not have an RLXIB series
equivalent. It cannot function as a repeater to ProSoft’s RLXIB-IHxN series radio
products. Specific differences by product are noted in the following table.
Specifications that have not changed between the RLXIB and RLX2 series products
are not listed.
Dimensions
Weight
Typical Power
Consumption
Max Power
Consumption
Active antenna
ports
Ethernet Speeds
RLXIBIHA
4.5/115
Wx
4.6/117
Hx
1.75/45
(inches/
mm)
1.1 lbs
(499g)
< 9W
RLX2IHA
5.82/14
8W x
4.64/11
8H x
1.48/38
(inches
/mm)
1.1 lbs
(499g)
5.7W
RLXIBIHG
4.5/115W
x 4.6/117H
x 1.75/45
D (inches/
mm)
RLX2-IHG
1.1 lbs
(499g)
< 9W
9W
10W
10/100
MBit
NET and MOD
Status LEDs
Fast Roaming
microSD card
Onboard
temperature
sensor
5 GHz band DFS
channels
Use RLXIB
Firmware Image
Use RLX2
Firmware Image
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLXIBIHW
4.5/115W
x 4.6/117H
x 1.75/45
D (inches/
mm)
RLX2-IHW
RLX2-IHNF
5.82/148W
4.64/118H
x 1.48/38D
(inches/
mm)
5.82/148W x
4.64/118H x
1.48/38D
(inches/mm)
1.1 lbs
(499g)
4.5W
1.06 lbs
(479g)
<6W
1.06 lbs
(479g)
4.5W
1.1 lbs
(499g)
7.1W
9W
8W
6W
8W
9W
1 Tx/Rx, 1
optional
Rx only
1 Tx/Rx, 1
optional
Rx only
10/100/
1000
MBit

10/100
MBit
10/100/
1000 MBit
10/100
MBit
10/100/
1000 MBit
1, 2, or 3,
MIMO or
independent
antennas
10/100/
1000 MBit















5.82/148W
4.64/118H
x 1.48/38D
(inches/
mm)








Page 117 of 161
Reference
User Manual
8.3
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Dimensional Drawings
Page 118 of 161
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Industrial Hotspots
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November 29, 2012
Reference
User Manual
Page 119 of 161
Reference
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Master Channel-Frequency Table
The following table shows the channels/frequencies available in each RLX2
radio. Note that radios configured for FCC and ETSI regulatory domains do not
have the same channels available. Also, some channels may have usage or
power restrictions (e.g. indoor versus outdoor) in some locations.
FCC
RLX2-XXX-A versions
Channel
Number
10
11
12
13
36
40
44
48
52 (DFS)
56 (DFS)
60 (DFS)
64 (DFS)
100 (DFS)
104 (DFS)
108 (DFS)
112 (DFS)
116 (DFS)
120 (DFS)
124 (DFS)
128 (DFS)
132 (DFS)
136 (DFS)
140 (DFS)
149
153
157
161
165
Page 120 of 161
Center
Frequency
(MHz)
2412
2417
2422
2427
2432
2437
2442
2447
2452
2457
2462
2467
2472
5180
5200
5220
5240
5260
5280
5300
5320
5500
5520
5540
5560
5580
5600
5620
5640
5660
5680
5700
5745
5765
5785
5805
5825
IHA




IHG
IHNF
IHW



















































ETSI
RLX2-XXX-E versions
IHA




IHG
IHNF
IHW






























































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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
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8.4
Reference
User Manual
FCC Emission Regulations
The following charts show the maximum emissions allowed for the FCC in the
United States. These data should only be considered guidelines. Consult official
FCC documents for the latest official regulations.
In the 2.4 GHz band, the maximum Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power
(EIRP) is 4W for multipoint links: that is, radios with omnidirectional antennas.
Point-to-Point links using directional antennas are allowed higher EIRP.
8.4.1 2.4 GHz Band, Point-To-Multipoint
Maximum Power From Radio
dBm
Maximum
Antenna Gain
mW
Maximum EIRP
dBi
dBm
30
1000
36
27
500
36
24
250
12
36
21
125
15
36
18
63
18
36
15
32
21
36
12
16
24
36
8.4.2 2.4 GHz Band, Point-To-Point
Maximum Power From Radio
dBm
Maximum
Antenna Gain
mW
Maximum EIRP
dBi
dBm
30
1000
36
4.0
29
800
38
6.3
28
630
12
30
10.0
27
500
15
42
16.0
26
400
18
44
25.0
25
316
21
46
39.8
24
250
24
48
63.0
23
200
27
50
100.0
22
160
30
52
158.0
The FCC states that for every 1 dBi power reduction in the radio’s transmitter
output, the antenna gain may be increased by 3 dB.
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
8.4.3 5 GHz Bands, Point-To-Multipoint
5 GHz
Band
Frequency
Range
(GHz)
Channels
UNII
5.15 – 5.25
36, 40, 44
UNII-2
5.25 – 5.35
UNII-2
Extended
UNII-3
Permitted
Location
Maximum Power
from Radio
Maximum EIRP
dBm
mW
dBm
mW
Indoor
Only
16
40
22
160
48, 52, 56,
60, 64
Indoor or
Outdoor
23
200
29
800
5.470 –
5.725
100, 104,
108, 112,
116, 120,
124, 128,
132, 136,
140
Indoor or
Outdoor
23
200
29
800
5.725 –
5.825
149, 153,
157, 161,
165
Typical
Outdoor
29
800
35
3200
8.4.4 5 GHz Bands, Point-To-Point
5 GHz
Band
Frequency
Range
(GHz)
Channels
Permitted
Location
Maximum
Power from
Radio
Maximum EIRP
dBm
mW
dBm
mW
UNII
5.15 –
5.25
36, 40,
44
Indoor
Only
16
40
22
160
UNII-2
5.25 –
5.35
48, 52,
56, 60,
64
Indoor or
Outdoor
23
200
29
800
UNII-2
Extended
5.470 –
5.725
100, 104,
108, 112,
116, 120,
124, 128,
132, 136,
140
Indoor or
Outdoor
23
200
29
800
UNII-3
5.725 –
5.825
149, 153,
157, 161,
165
Typical
Outdoor
30
1000
53
200,000
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
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8.5
Reference
User Manual
Radio hardware
8.5.1 Radio power requirements
The RLX2 radios accept voltages between 10 and 24 VDC, with an average
power draw of less than 6 Watts. A detachable power connector comes with the
radio, as shown below. The connector terminals are labeled + (positive DC
connection) and - (DC ground connection).
The AC-to-DC power supply adapter supplied with the optional RLX-IHBTK
Bench Test Kit can be used. The DC power wires must be less than 3 meters in
length to meet regulatory requirements.
Important: When wiring the power connector supplied with the radio, be sure to
observe the proper polarity markings on the power connector. Wiring the
connector incorrectly can cause serious damage to the radio which will not
be covered under the ProSoft warranty.
The Power Connector (ProSoft part number 002-0116) is shown on the left in the
photo above. Note the + and – polarity markings. The wire installation tool
(ProSoft part number 357-0061) shown on the right is helpful for installing wires
into the spring-loaded contacts inside power connector.
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Industrial Hotspot
To use the installation tool, insert it into the connector as shown:
Press down on the installation tool to use it as a level which will open the
connector’s contacts to insert a wire. A properly-wired power connector is shown:
The RLX2 radios accept power from 802.3af Mode B or passive Power over
Ethernet sources supplying 48VDC, with an average power draw of less than 6
watts. ProSoft offers the following passive PoE injectors for use with the RLX2
radios:
POE-48I-AC
Power over Ethernet Injector, AC input
POE-48I-DC-DC
Power over Ethernet Injector, 9 to 36 VDC input voltage
The radio shall be installed by trained personnel only, as outlined to the
installation instructions provided with each radio.
Page 124 of 161
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Reference
User Manual
The equipment shall be installed by a qualified installer/electrician. The
installer/electrician is responsible for obtaining a secured ground connection
between the lug terminal on the surge protector to a verified common ground
point using a minimum 6 AWG gauge wire. This must be done when attaching
power lines to the radio during installation.
A solid ground connection should be verified using a meter prior to applying
power to the radio. Failing to secure a proper ground could result in serious injury
or death as a result of a lightning strike.
Using Power over Ethernet (PoE) to power remote devices has several
advantages including:
 "Carrier Class" Power Over Ethernet System.
 Power can be supplied over long distances, up to 300 feet.
 Power can be available wherever network access is available.
 The power supply can be centrally located where it can be attached to an
uninterruptible power supply.
 The user has the ability to easily power on reset the attached equipment from
a remote location.
 There is no need to run additional power cabling to the device as power can
be supplied over the CAT5, CAT5E, or CAT6 Ethernet cable.
 Used for remote mounted radios to save on cost of coax and reduce RF
losses.
 Built-in Ethernet Surge protection to prevent equipment damage.
 Overload and Short Circuit protection.
8.5.2 Ethernet Cable Specifications
The recommended cable is Category 5 or better. A Category 5 cable has four
twisted pairs of wires, which are color-coded and cannot be swapped. The
module uses only two of the four pairs when running at 10 MBit or 100 MBit
speeds. All eight wires are used when running at 1000 MBit speeds.
Category 5e or better cable is recommended for 1000 MBit speeds.
The Ethernet port on the module is Auto-Sensing. Use either a standard Ethernet
straight-through cable or a crossover cable when connecting the module to an
Ethernet hub, a 10/100/1000 Base-T Ethernet switch, or directly to a PC. The
module will detect the cable type and use the appropriate pins to send and
receive Ethernet signals.
Ethernet cabling is like U.S. telephone cables, except that it has eight
conductors. Some hubs have one input that can accept either a straight-through
or crossover cable, depending on a switch position. In this case, ensure the
switch position and cable type agree.
Refer to Ethernet cable configuration (page 126) for a diagram of how to
configure Ethernet cable.
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November 29, 2012
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
8.5.3 Ethernet Cable Configuration
Note: The standard connector view shown is color-coded for a straight-through cable.
Crossover cable
RJ-45 PIN
1 Rx+
2 Rx3 Tx+
6 Tx-
Page 126 of 161
RJ-45 PIN
3 Tx+
6 Tx1 Rx+
2 Rx-
Straight- through cable
RJ-45 PIN
1 Rx+
2 Rx3 Tx+
6 Tx-
RJ-45 PIN
1 Tx+
2 Tx3 Rx+
6 Rx-
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
8.6
Reference
User Manual
RLX2-IHA Detailed Specifications
Radio
Frequency Band
(Varies by country)
Wireless Standards
Transmit Power (Programmable)
(varies by country)
Channel data rates (Modulation)
Receiver Sensitivity (Typical)
Channel Selection
Security
802.11a
5.150 GHz to 5.250 GHz (FCC/ETSI)
5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz (FCC)
802.11a, 802.11i
24 dBm (250 mW) @ 6 Mbps
24 dBm (250 mW) @ 24 Mbps
21 dBm (125 mW) @ 54 Mbps
802.11a: 54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps (OFDM)
-92 dBm @ 6 Mbps
-84 dBm @ 24 Mbps
-72 dBm @ 54 Mbps
36, 40, 44, 48, 149, 153, 157, 161, 165
WPA2 - 802.11i with 128 bit AES-CCM
Legacy WPA TKIP, WEP support
MAC ID filter
Admin password
Physical
Extruded aluminum with DIN and panel mount
14.8 x 11.8 x 3.8 cm (W x H x D)
5.82 x 4.64 x 1.48 inches
IEC 60068 2-6 (20g, 3-Axis)
IEC 60068 2-27 (5g, 10Hz to 150Hz)
One 10/100/1000 Base-T connector, shielded RJ45
(1) RP-SMA connector
1.1 lbs (499g)
Enclosure
Size
Shock
Vibration
Ethernet Ports
Antenna Port
Weight
Environmental
-40° C to +75° C
Up to 100% RH, with no condensation
10 Vdc to 24 Vdc
48 Vdc
802.3af Compliant
Less than 9 Watts
Operating Temperature
Humidity
External Power
PoE Injector
Power over Ethernet
Average Power
Regulatory Approvals
Wireless Approvals
Visit www.prosoft-technology.com for current wireless approval information.
Hazardous Locations
12.12.01 groups A, B, C, D
ANSI/ISA
C22.2 No. 213-M1987
CSA
EN60079-0 and EN60079-15
ATEX
Ordinary Locations
CSA/CB
FCC/IC
ETSI
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
EN60950 N. America & W. Europe
Part 15, Class A and ICES-03
ETSI EN300 328 and ETSI EN301 893
Page 127 of 161
Reference
User Manual
8.7
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
RLX2-IHG Detailed Specifications
Radio
802.11g:
2.412 GHz to 2.462 GHz (FCC)
2.412 GHz to 2.472 GHz (ETSI)
802.11g, 802.11i
Wireless Standards
Transmit Power (Programmable) 24 dBm (250 mW) at 11 Mbps
24 dBm (250 mW) at 24 Mbps
(varies by country)
21 dBm (125 mW) at 54 Mbps
Channel data rates (Modulation) 802.11g: (OFDM) Mbps
54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, and 6
802.11b: (DSS) Mbps
11, 5.5, 2, and 1
-94 dBm @ 1 Mbps
Receiver Sensitivity (Typical)
-92 dBm @ 11 Mbps
-84 dBm @ 24 Mbps
-72 dBm @ 54 Mbps
802.11g:
Channel Selection
1 to 11 (FCC)
1 to 13 (ETSI)
WPA2 - 802.11i with 128 bit AES-CCM
Security
Legacy WPA TKIP, WEP support
MAC ID filter
Admin password
Frequency Band
(Varies by country)
Physical
Enclosure
Size
Shock
Vibration
Ethernet Ports
Antenna Port
Weight
Extruded aluminum with DIN and panel mount
Width x Height x Depth
14.8 cm x 11.8 cm x 3.8 cm
5.82 inches x 4.64 inches x 1.48 inches
IEC 60068 2-6 (20 g, 3-Axis)
IEC 60068 2-27 (5 g, 10 Hz to 150 Hz)
One 10/100/1000 Base-T connector, shielded
RJ45
(1) RP-SMA connector
1.1 lbs (499g)
Environmental
Operating Temperature
Humidity
External Power
PoE Injector
Power over Ethernet
Average Power Consumption
Page 128 of 161
-40°F to +167°F (-40°C to +75°C)
Up to 100% RH, with no condensation
10 Vdc to 24 Vdc
48 Vdc
802.3af Compliant
less than 9 Watts
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Reference
User Manual
Regulatory Approvals
Wireless Approvals
Visit our web site at www.prosoft-technology.com for current wireless approval information.
Hazardous Locations
12.12.01 groups A, B, C, D
ANSI/ISA
C22.2 No. 213-M1987
CSA
EN60079-0 and EN60079-15
ATEX
Ordinary Locations
CSA/CB
FCC/IC
ETSI
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
EN60950 N. America & W. Europe
Part 15, Class A and ICES-03
ETSI EN300 328 and ETSI EN301 893
Page 129 of 161
Reference
User Manual
8.8
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
RLX2-IHNF Detailed Specifications
Radio
Frequency Band
(Varies by country)
Wireless Standards
Transmit Power
(Programmable)
*Subject to Regional
Regulatory Limits
Channel data rates
(802.11n)
Channel data rates
(802.11a/g)
Receiver Sensitivity
(Typical)
Security
Channel
Frequency
2.412 GHz to 2.462 GHz (FCC)
1 to 11
1 to 13
2.412 GHz to 2.472 GHz (ETSI)
5.150 GHz to 5.250 GHz (FCC/ETSI)
36 to 48
5.250 GHz to 5.350 GHz (ETSI)
52 to 64
5.470 GHz to 5.580 GHz (ETSI)
100 to 116
5.680 GHz to 5.700 GHz (ETSI)
136 to 140
149 to 165
5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz (FCC)
802.11n, 802.11h, 802.11i,
802.11a, 802.11g (Legacy)
22 dBm @ MCS0, MCS8 (802.11an/gn)
17 dBm @ MCS7, MCS15 (802.11an/gn)
22 dBm @ 6 Mbps (802.11a/g)
17 dBm @ 54 Mbps (802.11a/g)
Antenna Impact:
3 Antennas/ MIMO: Use values above
2 Antennas: Subtract 3 dB from values above
1 Antenna: Subtract 5 dB from values above
MCS0 through MCS15,
1 Channel or 2 Channels with 1 Stream or 2 Streams
Streams
2 Channels
Rate
1 Channel
7 Mbps
15 Mbps
MCS0
72 Mbps
150 Mbps
MCS7
14 Mbps
30 Mbps
MCS8
144 Mbps
300 Mbps
MCS15
1 Stream
2 Streams
802.11a/g:
54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps
-92 dBm @ MCS0, MCS8 (802.11an/gn)
-70 dBm @ MCS7, MCS15 (802.11an)
-74 dBm @ MCS7, MCS15 (802.11gn)
-92 dBm @ 6 Mbps (802.11an/gn)
-74 dBm @ 54 Mbps (802.11a)
-78 dBm @ 54 Mbps (802.11g)
WPA2 Personal – 802.11i AES w/ Passphrase
Legacy WPA TKIP, WEP support
MAC ID filter
Physical
Enclosure
Size
Extruded aluminum with DIN rail mount
Width 115 mm x Height 117 mm x Depth 45 mm
Width 4.5 inches x Height 4.6 inches x Depth 1.75 inches
Shock
Vibration
Ethernet Port
IEC 60068 2-6 (20g, 3-Axis)
IEC 60068 2-27 (5g, 10Hz to 150Hz)
One 10/100 Base-T connector, shielded RJ45
IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3x
(3) RP-SMA connector
Industrial SD Memory Module
1.1 lbs (499 g)
Antenna Port
Personality Module
Weight
Page 130 of 161
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Reference
User Manual
Environmental
Operating Temperature -40°F to +167°F (-40°C to +75°C)
Up to 100% RH, with no condensation
Humidity
10 Vdc to 24 Vdc
External Power
802.3af PoE Powered Device
PoE Injector
less than 9 Watts
Average Power
Consumption
Agency Approvals & Certifications
Wireless Approvals
Visit our web site at www.prosoft-technology.com for current wireless approval information.
Hazardous Locations
12.12.01 groups A, B, C, D
ANSI/ISA
C22.2 No. 213-M1987
CSA
EN60079-0 and EN60079-15
ATEX
Ordinary Locations
CSA/CB
FCC/IC
ETSI
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
EN60950 N. America & W. Europe
Part 15, Class A and ICES-03
ETSI EN300 328 and ETSI EN301 893
Page 131 of 161
Reference
User Manual
8.9
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
RLX2-IHW Detailed Specifications
Radio
802.11b/g:
2.412 GHz to 2.462 GHz (FCC)
2.412 GHz to 2.472 GHz (ETSI)
802.11a:
5.150 GHz to 5.250 GHz (FCC/ETSI)
5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz (FCC)
802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11i
Wireless Standards
Transmit Power (Programmable) Up to 50 mW without amplifier
Up to 500 mW with optional amplifier. (not
(varies by country)
applicable for hazardous locations)
Channel data rates (Modulation) 802.11b: 11, 5.5, 2, 1 Mbps
(DSSS - BPSK, QPSK, CCK)
802.11g: 54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps (OFDM)
802.11a: 54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps (OFDM)
-90 dBm @ 1 Mbps
Receiver Sensitivity (Typical)
-85 dBm @ 11 Mbps
-82 dBm @ 24 Mbps
-75 dBm @ 54 Mbps
1 to 13 (802.11b/g)
Channels Selection
36, 40, 44, 48, 149, 153, 157, 161, 165 (802.11a)
WPA2 - 802.11i with 128 bit AES-CCM
Security
Legacy WPA TKIP, WEP support
MAC ID filter
Admin password
Frequency Band
(Varies by country)
Physical
Enclosure
Size
Vibration
Shock
Ethernet Ports
Antenna Ports
Weight
Environmental
Operating Temperature
Humidity
External Power
PoE Injector
Power over Ethernet
Average Power
Page 132 of 161
Extruded aluminum with DIN and panel mount
14.8 x 11.8 x 3.8 cm (W x H x D)
5.82 x 4.64 x 1.48 inches
IEC 60068 2-6 (20g, 3-Axis)
IEC 60068 2-27 (5g, 10 Hz to 150 Hz)
One 10/100/1000 Base-T connector, shielded
RJ45
(2) RP-SMA connectors
1.06 lbs (479g)
-40°C to +75°C (-40°F to +167°F)
Up to 100% RH, with no condensation
10 Vdc to 24 Vdc
48 Vdc
802.3af Compliant
Less than 9 Watts
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Reference
User Manual
Regulatory Approvals
Wireless Approvals
Visit our web site at www.prosoft-technology.com for current wireless approval information.
Hazardous Locations
12.12.01 groups A, B, C, D
ANSI/ISA
C22.2 No. 213-M1987
CSA
EN60079-0 and EN60079-15
ATEX
Ordinary Locations
CSA/CB
FCC/IC
ETSI
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
EN60950 N. America & W. Europe
Part 15, Class A and ICES-03
ETSI EN300 328 and ETSI EN301 893
Page 133 of 161
User Manual
Page 134 of 161
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
Antenna Configuration
In This Chapter

9.1
Antennas ............................................................................................. 135
Antennas
Connecting antennas to the radio, see Connecting antennas (page 39).
Consider important electrical characteristics when selecting antennas:
 Antenna pattern (page 135)
 Antenna gain (page 136)
 Antenna polarity (page 136)
 Antenna location, spacing, and mounting (page 141)
9.1.1 Antenna Pattern
Information between two wireless devices is transferred via electromagnetic
energy radiated by one antenna and received by another. The radiated power of
most antennas is not uniform in all directions and has varying intensities. The
radiated power in various directions is called the pattern of the antenna. Each
antenna should be mounted so that its direction of strongest radiation intensity
points toward the other antenna or antennas with which it will exchange signals.
Complete antenna patterns are three-dimensional, although often only a twodimensional slice of the pattern is shown when all the antennas of interest are
located in roughly the same horizontal plane, along the ground rather than above
or below one another.
A slice taken in a horizontal plane through the center (or looking down on the
pattern) is called the azimuth pattern. A view from the side reveals a vertical
plane slice called the elevation pattern.
An antenna pattern with equal or nearly equal intensity in all directions is
omnidirectional. In two dimensions, an omnidirectional pattern appears as a
circle (in three dimensions, an omnidirectional antenna pattern would be a
sphere, but no antenna has true omnidirectional pattern in three dimensions). An
antenna is considered omnidirectional if one of its two dimensional patterns,
either azimuth or elevation pattern, is omnidirectional.
Beamwidth is an angular measurement of how strongly the power is
concentrated in a particular direction. Beamwidth is a three dimensional quantity
but can be broken into two-dimensional slices just like the antenna pattern. The
beamwidth of an omnidirectional pattern is 360 degrees because the power is
equal in all directions.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Page 135 of 161
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
9.1.2 Antenna Gain
Antenna gain is a measure of how strongly an antenna radiates in its direction of
maximum radiation intensity compared to how strong the radiation would be if the
same power were applied to an antenna that radiated all of its power equally in
all directions. Using the antenna pattern, the gain is the distance to the furthest
point on the pattern from the origin. For an omnidirectional pattern, the gain is 1,
or equivalently 0 dB. The higher the antenna gain is, the narrower the
beamwidth, and vice versa.
The amount of power received by the receiving antenna is proportional to the
transmitter power multiplied by the transmit antenna gain, multiplied by the
receiving antenna gain. Therefore, the antenna gains and transmitting power can
be traded off. For example, doubling one antenna gain has the same effect as
doubling the transmitting power. Doubling both antenna gains has the same
effect as quadrupling the transmitting power.
9.1.3 Antenna Polarity
Antenna polarization refers to the direction in which the electromagnetic field
lines point as energy radiates away from the antenna. In general, the polarization
is elliptical. The simplest and most common form of this elliptical polarization is a
straight line, or linear polarization. Of the transmitted power that reaches the
receiving antenna, only the portion that has the same polarization as the
receiving antenna polarization is actually received. For example, if the
transmitting antenna polarization is pointed in the vertical direction (vertical
polarization, for short), and the receiving antenna also has vertical polarization,
the maximum amount of power possible will be received. On the other hand, if
the transmit antenna has vertical polarization and the receiving antenna has
horizontal polarization, no power should be received. If the two antennas have
linear polarizations oriented at 45° to each other, half of the possible maximum
power will be received.
9.1.4 Whip antennas
Use a 1/2 wave straight whip or 1/2 wave articulating whip (2 dBi) antenna with
RLX2 radios. These antennas are the most common type in use today. Such
antennas are approximately 5 inches long, and are likely to be connected to a
client radio (connected directly to the radio enclosure). These antennas do not
require a ground plane. Articulating antennas and non-articulating antennas work
in the same way. An articulating antenna bends at the connection.
Page 136 of 161
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
9.1.5 Collinear array antennas
A collinear array antenna is typically composed of several linear antennas
stacked on top of each other. The more stacked elements it has, the longer it is,
and the more gain it has. It is fed in on one end.
The antenna pattern is torroidal. Its azimuthal beamwidth is 360°
(omnidirectional). Its vertical beamwidth depends on the number of
elements/length, where more elements equal narrower beamwidth. The antenna
gain also depends on the number of elements/length, where more elements
produce higher gain. Typical gain is 5 to 10 dBi.
The antenna polarity is linear, or parallel to the length of the antenna.
9.1.6 Yagi Array Antenna
A yagi antenna is composed of an array of linear elements, each parallel to one
another and attached perpendicular to and along the length of a metal boom. The
feed is attached to only one of the elements. Elements on one side of the fed
element are longer and act as reflectors; elements on the other side are shorter
and act as directors. This causes the antenna to radiate in a beam out of the end
with the shorter elements. The pattern depends on the overall geometry,
including the number of elements, element spacing, element length, and so on.
Sometimes the antenna is enclosed in a protective tube hiding the actual
antenna geometry.
The antenna pattern (page 135) is a beam pointed along the boom toward the
end with the shorter elements. The beamwidth varies with antenna geometry but
generally is proportional to the length (where longer length produces a narrower
beam).
The antenna gain (page 136) varies with antenna geometry but generally is
proportional to the length (where longer length produces higher gain). Typical
values are 6 to 15dBi.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Page 137 of 161
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
The antenna polarity is Linear (parallel to the elements, perpendicular to the
boom).
Refer to the Antenna Types overview section for other types of approved
antennas (page 139).
9.1.7 Parabolic reflector antennas
A parabolic reflector antenna consists of a parabolic shaped dish and a feed
antenna located in front of the dish. Power is radiated from the feed antenna
toward the reflector. Due to the parabolic shape, the reflector concentrates the
radiation into a narrow pattern, resulting in a high- gain beam.
The antenna pattern is a beam pointed away from the concave side of the dish.
Beamwidth and antenna gain vary with the size of the reflector and the antenna
construction. Typical gain values are 15 to 30 dBi.
The antenna polarity depends on the feed antenna polarization.
Page 138 of 161
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RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
9.1.8 RLX2 Approved antennas
In the U.S. and Canada, use antennas that are specifically approved by the U.S.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry Canada for use with
the RLX2 radios. Contact ProSoft Technology or visit
www.prosoft-technology.com for a current list of approved antennas.
 Whip
 Collinear array
 Yagi array (page 137)
 Parabolic reflector (page 138)
Antenna selection depends on whether the bi-directional amplifier is being used
or not. For each approved antenna, there is a specified minimum distance the
antennas must be separated from users for safe exposure limits, according to
FCC part 2.1091.
Approved antennas in Europe and other countries accepting CE (page 140)
Approved antennas in Mexico (page 140)
Approved antenna table
Use the following approved antennas when the radio module is connected
directly to an antenna. Refer to Approved antennas with power amp (page 140)
for a table of approved antennas with bi-directional power amplifiers.
Type
Pattern
Gain
Omni
2 dB
1/2 Wave
Omni
2 dB
1/2 Wave art.
Omni
3 dB
Collinear Array
5 dB
Collinear Array, art. Omni
Omni
5 dB
Collinear Array
Omni
8 dB
Collinear Array
Omni
9 dB
Collinear Array
Omni
12 dB
Collinear Array
Directional
8 dB
Patch
Directional
11 dB
Patch
Directional
13 dB
Patch
Directional
19 dB
Patch*
Directional
14 dB
Yagi
Directional
15 dB
Parabolic*
Directional
19 dB
Parabolic*
Directional
24 dB
Parabolic*
* Only allowed in a point-to-point network.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Connector
Size (cm)
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
N-RP
N-RP
N-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
N-RP
N-RP
N-RP
N-RP
N-RP
N-RP
7H x 1.5
10H x 1.0
6H x 3.0
19H x 1.0
19H x 1.0
43H x 1.6
43H x 1.6
106H x 4.0
15.0H x 15.0
22H x 12.7
22H x 22
15.5 x 15.5
81L x 9.0
40H x 51W x 25D
58H x 66W x 26D
78H x 96W x 29D
Min. distance
from Body
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
25 cm
20 cm
22 cm
28 cm
57 cm
28 cm
36 cm
57 cm
100 cm
Page 139 of 161
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Approved antennas in Europe/CE
The gain of the antenna connected to the main antenna port, minus the antenna
cable loss, must be less than 4 dB to stay below the 100-mW EIRP transmit
power limit.
The AUX port is only used to receive; it never transmits.
Note: In France, the user is responsible for ensuring that the selected frequency channels comply
with French regulatory standards. At the time of this printing, only channels 10 through 13 can be
used in France.
Approved antennas in Mexico
The gain of the antenna connected to the main antenna port, minus the antenna
cable loss, must be less than 12 dB to stay below the 650-mW EIRP transmit
power limit.
Note: In Mexico, the user is responsible for ensuring that the selected frequency channels comply
with Mexican regulatory standards. At the time of this printing, only channels 9 through 11 can be
used outdoors (1 through 8 cannot); however, channels 1 through 11 can all be used indoors.
Approved antennas with power amp
When the radio is used in conjunction with the amplifier, the antennas are limited
to antennas listed in the following table.
Type
Pattern
Gain
Omni
2 dB
1/2 Wave
Omni
2 dB
1/2 Wave art.
Omni
3 dB
Collinear Array
5 dB
Collinear Array, art. Omni
Omni
5 dB
Collinear Array
Omni
8 dB
Collinear Array
Omni
9 dB
Collinear Array
Omni
12 dB
Collinear Array*
Directional
8 dB
Patch
Directional
11 dB
Patch*
Directional
13 dB
Patch*
Directional
14 dB
Yagi*
* Only allowed in a point-to-point network.
Page 140 of 161
Connector
Size (cm)
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
N-RP
N-RP
N-RP
SMA-RP
SMA-RP
N-RP
N-RP
7H x 1.5
10H x 1.0
6H x 3.0
19H x 1.0
19H x 1.0
43H x 1.6
43H x 1.6
106H x 4.0
15.0H x 15.0
22H x 12.7
22H x 22
81L x 9.0
Min. distance from
Body
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
20 cm
25 cm
20 cm
20 cm
28 cm
28 cm
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Antenna Configuration
User Manual
9.1.9 Antenna location, spacing, and mounting
Consider the following points regarding antenna location, spacing, and mounting:
 When placing antennas, ensure a clear line of sight between the master
radio's antenna and all of the other radio antennas.
 If the site base contains obstructing terrain or structures, mount the antenna
on a tower or rooftop to provide a line-of-sight path. The line-of-sight
consideration becomes more important as the transmission path becomes
longer.
 Mount the antennas as high off the ground as is practical. The higher an
antenna is above the ground, the greater its range.
 Mount the antennas away from massive structures. Radio signals bounce off
metal walls, for example, which can compromise a clear signal.
 Mount antennas to minimize the amount of nearby metal structures in the
antenna pattern.
 Mount the antennas and install radios away from sources of RF interference.
 Use the shortest possible antenna cable length. Signals lose power over the
cable's distance.
 Choose antennas that are appropriate for the network's intended function.
 If antennas are on radios on the same network, mount them so they have the
same polarity. If the antennas are on separate networks, mount them so they
have a different antenna polarity—for example, mount one antenna vertically
and the other horizontally.
 Space radios at least three feet (one meter) apart so they do not overload
each other. If antennas must be near each other:
o Mount omnidirectional antennas directly above each other.
o Position directional antennas so they do not point at nearby antennas.
Place antennas side by side if they point in the same direction. Place
antennas back to back if they point in opposite directions.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Page 141 of 161
User Manual
Page 142 of 161
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
Support, Service & Warranty
User Manual
10 Support, Service & Warranty
In This Chapter


Contacting Technical Support ............................................................. 143
Warranty Information………………………………………………………144
Contacting Technical Support
ProSoft Technology, Inc. (ProSoft) is committed to providing the most efficient
and effective support possible. Before calling, please gather the following
information to assist in expediting this process:
1 Product Version Number
2 System architecture
3 Network details
If the issue is hardware related, we will also need information regarding:
1 Module configuration and associated ladder files, if any
2 Module operation and any unusual behavior
3 Configuration/Debug status information
4 LED patterns
5 Details about the serial, Ethernet or fieldbus devices interfaced to the module,
if any.
Note: For technical support calls within the United States, an after-hours answering system allows
24-hour/7-days-a-week pager access to one of our qualified Technical and/or Application Support
Engineers.
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Page 143 of 161
Support, Service & Warranty
User Manual
Internet
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspot
Web Site: www.prosoft-technology.com/support
E-mail address: support@prosoft-technology.com
Tel: +603.7724.2080, E-mail: asiapc@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken include: Chinese, English
Tel: +86.21.5187.7337 x888, E-mail: asiapc@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken include: Chinese, English
Tel: +33 (0) 5.34.36.87.20,
E-mail: support.EMEA@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken include: French, English
Tel: +971-4-214-6911,
E-mail: mea@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken include: English, Hindi
North America
Tel: +1.661.716.5100,
(location in California)
E-mail: support@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken include: English, Spanish
Tel: +1-281-2989109,
Latin America
E-Mail: latinam@prosoft-technology.com
(Oficina Regional)
Languages spoken include: Spanish, English
Tel: +52-222-3-99-6565,
Latin America
(location in Puebla, Mexico) E-mail: soporte@prosoft-technology.com
Languages spoken include: Spanish
Tel: +55-11-5083-3776,
Brasil
E-mail: brasil@prosoft-technology.com
(location in Sao Paulo)
Languages spoken include: Portuguese, English
Asia Pacific
(location in Malaysia)
Asia Pacific
(location in China)
Europe
(location in Toulouse,
France)
Europe
(location in Dubai, UAE)
Warranty Information
For complete details regarding ProSoft Technology’s TERMS & CONDITIONS
OF SALE, WARRANTY, SUPPORT, SERVICE AND RETURN MATERIAL
AUTHORIZATION INSTRUCTIONS please see the documents on the Product
DVD or go to www.prosoft-technology/warranty
Documentation is subject to change without notice
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Glossary of Terms
Symbols & Numeric
802.11
A group of wireless specifications developed by the IEEE. It details a wireless
interface between devices to manage packet traffic.
802.11a
Operates in the 5 GHz frequency range with a maximum 54 Mbit/sec signaling
rate.
802.11b
Operates in the 2.4 GHz Industrial, Scientific, and Measurement (ISM) band.
Provides signaling rates of up to 11 Mbit/sec and is the most commonly used
frequency.
802.11g
Similar to 802.11b but supports signaling rates of up to 54 Mbit/sec. Operates in
the heavily used 2.4 GHz ISM band but uses a different radio technology to boost
throughput.
802.11i
Sometimes Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA 2). WPA 2 supports the 128-bit and
above advanced encryption Standard, along with 802.1x authentication and key
management features.
802.11n
Designed to raise effective WLAN throughput to more than 100 Mbit/sec.
Access Point
A generic term for an 802.11 radio that "attaches" other 802.11 radios (clients) to
a wired network. Some APs can also bridge to one another.
Ad hoc Mode
Wireless network framework in which devices can communicate directly with one
another without using an AP or a connection to a regular network. RLX2 radio
products do not support Ad hoc mode.
AES
Advanced Encryption Standard. New standard for encryption adopted by the U.S.
government for secure communications.
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Amplifier
A device connected to an antenna used to increase the signal strength and
amplify weak incoming signals.
Antenna
A device connected to a wireless transceiver that concentrates transmitted and
received radio waves to increase signal strength and thus the effective range of a
wireless network.
ASCII
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A communication mode in
which each eight-bit byte in a message contains one ASCII character code.
ASCII characters (or hexadecimal characters) are sometimes used as a key to
encrypt data and ensure its secure transmission.
Association
Process whereby two 802.11 radios establish communications with each other.
Requirements for communication include common SSID (network names) and
encryption settings.
Authenticate
The process of confirming the identity of someone connecting to a network.
Authentication Server
A back-end database server that confirms the identity of a supplicant to an
authenticator in an 802.1x-authenticated network.
Band
Another term for spectrum used to indicate a particular set of frequencies.
Wireless networking protocols work in either the 2.4 GHz or the 5 GHz bands.
Bandwidth
(See Throughput)
Base Station
See Wireless Gateway
Baud Rate
The speed of communication between devices on the network. All devices must
communicate at the same rate.
bps
Bits per Second. A measure of data transmission speed across a network or
communications channel; bps is the number of bits that can be sent or received
per second.
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CACT
CACT is an acronym for Channel Availability Check Time, a parameter used in
DFS channel selection. During DFS when a radio changes channels, it must
listen for the CACT on the new channel before beginning operations. For most
channels the CACT is 60 seconds.
Channel
One portion of the available radio spectrum that all devices on a wireless network
use to communicate. Changing the channel on the access point/router can help
reduce interference.
Channel Move Time
The maximum time a radio can take to transition to another channel when radar
is detected. Typically 10 seconds.
Client, Radio Mode
A radio in Client mode can connect to any Access Point, but can only support
one Ethernet device. See also Repeater, Radio Mode.
Client, Software
A client is a software program, or the device on which that program runs, that
makes requests for information from a software program, or the device on which
that program runs, in a client-server relationship.
A Client on an Ethernet network is equivalent to a Master on a serial network.
Configuration PC
A Computer that contains the configuration tools for the RLX2 radio series.
dBi
Decibels referenced to an "ideal" isotropic radiator in free space; frequently used
to express antenna gain
dBm
Decibels referenced to one milliwatt (mW); an "absolute" unit used to measure
signal power (transmit power output or received signal strength)
DCE
Data communications equipment. A modem, for example.
Decibel (dB)
A measure of the ratio between two signal levels; used to express gain (or loss)
in a system.
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Default Gateway
The IP address of a network router where data is sent if the destination IP
address is outside the local subnet. The gateway is the device that routes the
traffic from the local area network to other networks such as the Internet.
Device-to-Device Network (Peer-to-Peer Network)
Two or more devices that connect using wireless network devices without the
use of a centralized wireless access point. Also known as a peer-to-peer
network.
DFS
DFS stands for Dynamic Frequency Selection, a requirement for operation on
certain frequencies in the 5 GHz band in many countries. When a radio operates
on a DFS frequency, it must sense the presence of radar and automatically
change to another channel if radar is detected.
DHCP
The dynamic host configuration protocol is an Internet protocol, similar to BootP,
for automating the configuration of computers that use TCP/IP. DHCP can be
used to automatically assign IP addresses, to deliver IP stack configuration
parameters, such as the subnet mask and default router, and to provide other
configuration information, such as the addresses for printer, time, and news
servers.
Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum
One of two approaches (with frequency hopping spread spectrum) for sorting out
overlapping data signals transmitted via radio waves. 802.11b uses DSSS
Directional Antenna
Transmits and receives radio waves off the front of the antenna.
Diversity Antenna
An antenna system that uses multiple antennas to reduce interference and
maximize reception and transmission quality.
DTE
Data Terminal Equipment, for example, a computer or terminal.
Dual Band
A device that is capable of operating in two frequencies. On a wireless network,
dual-band devices are capable of operating in both the 2.4 GHz (802.11b/g) and
5 GHz (802.11a) bands.
EAP
Extensible Authentication Protocol. A protocol that provides an authentication
framework for both wireless and wired Ethernet enterprise networks.
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EIRP
Equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) is the amount of power that would
have to be emitted by an isotropic antenna (that evenly distributes power in all
directions and is a theoretical construct) to produce the peak power density
observed in the direction of maximum antenna gain.
Encryption
Method of scrambling data so that only the intended viewers can decipher and
understand it.
ESD
Electrostatic Discharge. Can cause internal circuit damage to the coprocessor.
ESSID
Extended Service Set Identifier. A name used to identify a wireless network.
Firmware
Firmware is the embedded software code that that runs in the module to direct
module function (similar to the BIOS in a personal computer). This is
distinguished from the Setup/Diagnostic Application software that is installed on
the Configuration PC.
Frequency Hopping
A radio that rapidly changes its operating frequency several times per second
following a pre-determined sequence of frequencies. The transmitting and
receiving radios are programmed to follow the same frequency hopping
sequence.
Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum
Changes or hops frequencies in pattern known to both sender and receiver.
FHSS is little influenced by radio stations, reflections, or other environmental
factors. However, it is much slower than DSSS.
Fresnel Zone
An elliptical area on either side of the straight line of sight that must also be clear
for a long-range wireless network to work.
Full-Duplex
A communications circuit or system designed to simultaneously transmit and
receive two different streams of data. Telephones are an example of a full-duplex
communication system. Both parties on a telephone conversation can talk and
listen at the same time. If both talk at the same time, their two signals are not
corrupted.
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Gain
The amount by which an antenna concentrates signal strength in a wireless
network.
Gateway
In wireless terms, a gateway is an access point with additional software
capabilities such as providing NAT and DHCP.
Guard Interval (GI)
An interval of time between data packet transmissions. The guard interval time
for 802.11a/b/g systems is fixed at 800 microseconds. 802.11n devices can also
use a 400 microsecond guard interval, falling back to 800 microseconds if
excessive data corruption is detected.
Half-Duplex
A communications circuit or system designed to transmit and receive data, but
not both simultaneously. CB or walkie-talkie radios are an example of a halfduplex communication system. Either parties on a radio conversation may talk or
listen; but both cannot talk at the same time without corrupting each other's
signal. If one operator is "talking", the other must be "listening" to have
successful communication.
Hz
Hertz. The international unit for measuring frequency equivalent to the older unit
of cycles per second. One megahertz (MHz) is one million hertz. One gigahertz
(GHz) is one billion hertz. The standard US electrical power frequency is 60 Hz.
802.11a devices operate in the 5 GHz band; 802.11b and g devices operate in
the 2.4 GHz band.
IEEE
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. IEEE is a professional
organization with members in over 175 countries and is an authority in technical
areas such as computer engineering and telecommunications. IEEE developed
the 802.11 specifications.
IP Address
A 32-bit identification number for each node on an Internet Protocol network.
These addresses are represented as four sets of 8-bit numbers (numbers from 0
to 255), separated by periods ("dots").
Networks using the TCP/IP Protocol route messages based on the IP address of
the destination. Each number can be 0 to 255. For example, 192.168.0.100 could
be an IP address. Each node on the network must have a unique IP address.
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Key
A set of information (often 40 to as much as 256 bits) that is used as a seed to an
encryption algorithm to encrypt (scramble) data. Ideally, the key must also be
known by the receiver to decrypt the data.
LAN
A system of connecting PCs and other devices within the same physical
proximity for sharing resources such as internet connections, printers, files, and
drives. When Wi-Fi is used to connect the devices, the system is known as a
wireless LAN or WLAN.
LED
Light-emitting diode.
Line of Sight (LoS)
A clear line from one antenna to another in a long-range wireless network.
Link point
The graphical point next to a radio icon that represents the connection point for
RF communications between radios. An RF connection between two radios is
called an RF Link and is represented as a graphical black line between the
radio’s link points.
MAC ID
Media Access Control address. Every 802.11 device has its own MAC address.
This is a unique identifier used to provide security for wireless networks. When a
network uses a MAC table, only the 802.11 radios that have had their MAC
addresses added to the network’s MAC table are able to get on the network.
Master device
Device that is connected to the Master radio.
Mbps
Megabits per second, or millions of bits per second. A measure of bandwidth.
Megahertz
A measure of electromagnetic wave frequency equal to one million hertz. Often
abbreviated as MHz and used to specify the radio frequency used by wireless
devices.
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MIC
Message Integrity Check. One of the elements added to the TKIP standard. A
"signature" is added by each radio on each packet it transmits. The signature is
based on the data in the packet, a 64-bit value (key) and the MAC address of the
sender. The MIC allows the receiving radio to verify (check) that the data is not
forged.
MIMO
Multiple Input Multiple Output refers to using multiple antennas in a Wi-Fi device
to improve performance and throughput. MIMO technology takes advantage of a
characteristic called multipath, which occurs when a radio transmission starts out
at Point A and the reflects off or passes through surfaces or objects before
arriving, via multiple paths, at Point B. MIMO technology uses multiple antennas
to collect and organize signals arriving via these paths.
Modbus
The Modbus protocol provides the internal standard that the MODICON®
controllers use for parsing messages. During communications on a Modbus
network, the protocol determines how each controller will know its device
address, recognize a message addressed to it, determine the kind of action to be
taken, and extract any data or other information contained in the message. If a
reply is required, the controller will construct the reply message and send it using
Modbus protocol.
Modem
Stands for MODulator-DEModulator, a device that converts digital signals to
analog signals and vice-versa. Analog signals can be transmitted over
communications links such as telephone lines.
Network
A series of stations or nodes connected by some type of communication medium.
A network may consist of a single link or multiple links.
Node
An address or software location on the network.
Non-Occupancy Period
The time during which a radio cannot return to a frequency where radar was
detected. This time is typically 30 minutes. Typically a radio will not return to a
channel where radar was previously detected unless absolutely necessary.
Null Modem Cable
A specialty cross-communication cable with female connectors on each end used
for direct connection between devices when no modems are present. Commonly
used as a quick and inexpensive way to transfer files between two PCs without
installing a dedicated network card in each PC.
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Panel Antenna
An antenna type that radiates in only a specific direction. Panel antennas are
commonly used for point-to-point situations. Sometimes called Patch antennas.
Parabolic Antenna
An antenna type that radiates a very narrow beam in a specific direction.
Parabolic antennas offer the highest gain for long-range point-to-point situations.
Peer-to-Peer Network
Each radio in a Peer-to-Peer network has the ability to receive data from - and
transmit data to - any other radio in the network.
Point-Multipoint (Broadcast) Network
A network type where a single master radio sends data to every remote radio in
the network. This is done repeatedly until every remote radio individually receives
and acknowledges the data. Each remote radio sends pending data to the
master radio that receives and acknowledges data sent from each remote. In this
configuration, there are multiple remote radios referenced to a single master
radio.
Point-Multipoint (Modbus) Network
A network with a single Master radio and multiple Remote radios. The devices
cabled to the radios communicate through the Modbus standard protocol. The
Master radio sends data to a Remote radio based on the Modbus address of the
Modbus device. The data is only sent to the single Remote device based on its
address. Each Remote radio sends its data only to the Master radio. The Master
and Remote radios acknowledge that data was received correctly.
Point-to-Multipoint
A wireless network in which one point (the access point) serves multiple other
points around it. Indoor wireless networks are all point-to-multipoint, and longrange wireless networks that serve multiple clients usually employ either a single
omnidirectional antenna or multiple sector antennas.
Point-to-Point Network
A network consisting of a single Master radio and a single Remote radio. All data
from the Master is received and acknowledged by one Remote. All data from the
single Remote is received and acknowledged by the Master radio.
Poll
A method of electronic communication.
Power Supply
Device that supplies electrical power to the I/O chassis containing the processor,
coprocessor, or other modules.
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Protocol
The language or packaging of information that is transmitted between nodes on a
network.
QoS
Quality of Service. Required to support wireless multimedia applications and
advanced traffic management. QoS enables Wi-Fi access points to prioritize
traffic and optimize the way shared network resources are allocated among
different applications.
Range
The distance covered by a wireless network radio device. Depending on the
environment and the type of antenna used, Wi-Fi signals can have a range of up
to a mile.
Remote Access Point
One of a number of secondary access points in a wireless network that uses
WDS to extend its range. Remote access points (sometimes called relay access
points) connect to a master access point.
Remote device
Devices connected remote radios
Repeater
A Repeater is a device used to extend the range of a Wi-Fi signal. Placed at the
edge of signal reception, a repeater simply receives and re-transmits the signal.
Repeater, Radio Mode
A RLX2 radio in Repeater mode can only connect to other ProSoft radios, but
any number of Ethernet network devices can be attached to it. See also Client,
Radio Mode.
RS-232
Recommended Standard 232; the standard for serial binary signals between
DTE and DCE devices.
RTU (Remote Terminal Unit)
Modbus transmission mode where each eight-bit byte in a message contains two
four-bit hexadecimal characters. There are two transmission modes (ASCII or
RTU). The main advantage of the RTU mode is that its greater character density
allows better data throughput than ASCII mode for the same baud rate; each
message is transmitted in a continuous stream (See also ASCII, above).
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Sector Antenna
An antenna type that radiates in only a specific direction. Multiple sector
antennas are commonly used in point-to-multipoint situations.
Signal Diversity
A process by which two small dipole antennas are used to send and receive,
combining their results for better effect.
Signal Loss
The amount of signal strength that’s lost in antenna cable, connectors, and free
space. Signal loss is measured in decibels. Also referred to as gain loss.
Signal Strength
The strength of the radio waves in a wireless network.
Simplex
A communications circuit or system designed to either transmit data or receive
data, but not both. Broadcast television is an example of simplex communication
system. A television station sends a TV signal but cannot receive responses
back from the television sets to which it is transmitting. The TV sets can receive
the signal from the TV station but cannot transmit back to the station.
Site Survey
A comprehensive facility study performed by network managers to ensure that
planned service levels will be met when a new wireless LAN, or additional WLAN
segments to an existing network are deployed. Site surveys are usually
performed by a radio frequency engineer and used by systems integrators to
identify the optimum placement of access points to ensure that planned levels of
service are met. Site surveys are sometimes conducted following the deployment
to ensure that the WLAN is achieving the necessary level of coverage. Site
surveys can also be used to detect rogue access points.
Spectrum
A range of electromagnetic frequencies.
Spread Spectrum
A form of wireless communication in which a signal’s frequency is deliberately
varied. This increases bandwidth and lessens the chances of interruption or
interception of the transmitted signal.
SSI
Service Set Identifier is a sequence of characters unique to a specific network or
network segment that’s used by the network and all attached devices to identify
themselves and allow devices to connect to the correct network when one or
more than one independent network is operating in nearby areas.
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Subnet Mask
A mask used to determine what subnet an IP address belongs to. An IP address
has two components: the network address, and the host (node or device)
address. For example, consider the IP address 150.215.017.009. Assuming this
is part of a Class B network (with a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0), the first two
numbers (150.215) represent the Class B network address, and the second two
numbers (017.009) identify a particular host on this network.
TKIP
Temporal Key Integrity Protocol. The wireless security encryption mechanism in
Wi-Fi Protected Access. TKIP uses a key hierarchy and key management
methodology that removes the predictability that intruders relied upon to exploit
the WEP key. In increases the size of the key from 40 to 128 bits and replaces
WEP’s single static key with keys that are dynamically generated and distributed
by an authentication server, providing some 500 trillion possible keys that can be
used on a given data packet. If also includes a Message Integrity Check (MIC),
designed to prevent the attacker from capturing data packets, altering them, and
resending them. By greatly expanding the size of keys, the number of keys in
use, and by creating an integrity checking mechanism, TKIP magnifies the
complexity and difficulty involved in decoding data on a Wi-Fi network. TKIP
greatly increases the strength and complexity of wireless encryption, making it far
more difficult (if not impossible) for a would-be intruder to break into a Wi-Fi
network.
UART
Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter
WAP
Wireless Application Protocol. A set of standards to enable wireless devices to
access internet services, such as the World Wide Web and email.
WDS
Wireless Distribution System. Enables access points to communicate with one
another in order to extend the range of a wireless networks. Used in 802.11g
based access points.
WEP
Wired-Equivalent Privacy protocol was specified in the IEEE 802.11 standard to
provide a WLAN with a minimal level of security and privacy comparable to a
typical wired LAN, using data encryption.
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Wi-Fi
A certification mark managed by a trade group called the Wi-Fi Alliance. Wi-Fi
certification encompasses numerous standards including 802.11a, 802.11b,
802.11g, WPA, and more. Equipment must pass compatibility testing to receive
the Wi-Fi mark.
Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™
The certification standard designating IEEE 802.11-based wireless local area
network (WLAN) products that have passed interoperability testing requirements
developed and governed by the Wi-Fi alliance.
Wi-Fi Interoperability Certificate
A statement that a product has passed interoperability testing and will work with
other Wi-Fi CERTIFIED products.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup
Wi-Fi Protected Setup™ (previously called Wi-Fi Simple Config) is an optional
certification program developed by the Wi-Fi alliance designed to ease set up of
security enabled Wi-Fi networks in the home and small office environment. Wi-Fi
Protected Setup supports methods (pushing a button or entering a PIN into a
wizard-type application) that are familiar to most consumers to configure a
network and enable security.
Wireless Gateway
Term used to differentiate between an access point and a more-capable device
that can share an internet connection, serve DHCP, and bridge between wired
and wireless networks.
Wireless Network
Devices connected to a network using a centralized wireless access point.
WLAN
Wireless Local Area Network. A type of local area network in which data is sent
and received via high-frequency radio waves rather than cables or wires.
WPA
Wi-Fi Protected Access is a data encryption specification for 802.11 wireless
networks that replaces the weaker WEP. It improves on WEP by using dynamic
keys, Extensible Authentication Protocol to secure network access, and an
encryption method called Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) to secure data
transmissions.
WPA2
An enhanced version of WPA. It is the official 802.11i standard. It uses Advanced
Encryption Standard instead of TKIP. AES supports 128-bit, 192-bit, and 256-bit
encryption keys.
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Yagi Antenna
An antenna type that radiates in only a specific direction. Yagi antennas are used
in point-to-point situations.
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Index
User Manual
Index
2.4 GHz Band, Point-To-Multipoint • 121
2.4 GHz Band, Point-To-Point • 121
5 GHz Bands, Point-To-Multipoint • 122
5 GHz Bands, Point-To-Point • 122
802.11 • 145
802.11 Access Point Detector • 99
802.11a • 145
802.11b • 145
802.11g • 145
802.11i • 145
802.11n • 145
About RLX IH Browser • 113
About the IH Browser • 112
About the RadioLinx® RLX2 Industrial Hotspot™
products • 10
About this manual • 10
Access Point • 145
Ad hoc Mode • 145
Address table • 42, 55
Advanced Settings • 71
AES • 145
All 4 Dialogs • 100
Amplifier • 146
Antenna • 146
Antenna Configuration • 135
Antenna Gain • 135, 136, 137
Antenna location, spacing, and mounting • 135, 141
Antenna Pattern • 135, 137
Antenna Polarity • 135, 136
Antenna spacing requirements for user safety • 4
Antennas • 135
Apply Changes • 84
Approved antenna table • 139
Approved antennas in Europe/CE • 139, 140
Approved antennas in Mexico • 139, 140
Approved antennas with power amp • 139, 140
ASCII • 146
Assign a Temporary IP Address • 88, 91
Assign IP • 88, 91, 92
Association • 146
Authenticate • 146
Authentication Server • 146
Available Parents • 53
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Band • 146
Bandwidth • 146
Base Station • 146
Baud Rate • 146
bps • 146
CACT • 147
Cancel Changes • 85
Change password • 84
Channel • 147
Channel Move Time • 147
Check the Ethernet cable • 41, 42, 43
Clear • 89, 90
Client, Radio Mode • 147
Client, Software • 147
Close All • 100
Collinear array antennas • 137
Compatibility with ProSoft RLXIB Series Radios • 117
Configuration PC • 147
Configuring the Radios • 58
Connect • 88, 91, 92
Connecting antennas • 39, 135
Contacting Technical Support • 143
dBi • 147
dBm • 147
DCE • 147
Decibel (dB) • 147
Default Gateway • 148
Default Password • 41, 42, 45, 82, 84
Detailed Radio Configuration / Diagnostics • 49
Device-to-Device Network (Peer-to-Peer Network) •
148
DFS • 148
DFS Auto Select) • 86
DFS Support (RLX2-IHNF) • 85
DFS, Master Radio Operations) • 85
DHCP • 148
Diagnostics • 42
Diagnostics and Troubleshooting • 41
Dialogs Menu • 97
Dimensional Drawing • 118
Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum • 148
Directional Antenna • 148
Diversity Antenna • 148
DTE • 148
Dual Band • 148
EAP • 148
EIRP • 149
Encryption • 149
Encryption type • 78, 79
ESD • 149
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ESSID • 149
Ethernet Cable Configuration • 125, 126
Ethernet Cable Specifications • 125
Ethernet Nodes • 88, 97, 98
Event Filter • 101
Event Log • 88, 97, 100
Exit • 89, 91
Export • 89, 90
Factory Defaults • 85
FCC Emission Regulations • 121
File Menu • 89
Firmware • 149
Freeze • 89, 90
Frequency Hopping • 149
Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum • 149
Fresnel Zone • 149
Full-Duplex • 149
Gain • 150
Gateway • 150
Guard Interval (GI) • 150
Half-Duplex • 150
Help Menu • 112
Help Topics • 112
Hide Network SSID • 78, 81
How to Contact Us • 2
Hz • 150
IEEE • 150
IGMP Settings • 66
IH Browser Configuration Tool • 14
Import • 89, 90
Important Safety Information • 3
Improve signal quality • 38, 47
Installation Questions • 32
Installing the Radios • 37
IP Address • 150
Key • 151
Page 160 of 161
MAC filter • 78, 81
MAC ID • 151
Master Channel-Frequency Table • 120
Master device • 151
Mbps • 151
Megahertz • 151
MIC • 152
MIMO • 152
Modbus • 152
Modem • 152
Network • 152
Node • 152
Non-Occupancy Period • 152
Null Modem Cable • 152
Operations Menu • 91
LAN • 151
LED • 151
LED display • 44
Line of Sight (LoS) • 151
Link point • 151
List View • 102, 103
Package Contents • 13
Panel Antenna • 153
Parabolic Antenna • 153
Parabolic reflector antennas • 138, 139
Parent Link Settings • 38, 61, 106
Password, default • 41, 42, 45, 82, 84
Peer-to-Peer Network • 153
Ping Device • 94
Ping Options dialog box • 94
Pinouts • 125, 126
Planning the Physical Installation • 32
Planning Your Network • 31
Point-Multipoint (Broadcast) Network • 153
Point-Multipoint (Modbus) Network • 153
Point-to-Multipoint • 153
Point-to-Point Network • 153
Poll • 153
Port status • 42, 56, 100
Port Table • 88, 97, 100
Power Supply • 153
Primary radio functions • 87, 88
Print • 89, 90
Print Area • 102, 110
Print Preview • 89, 91
Print Setup • 89, 91
Prioritized Parent Selection • 63
Product Overview • 115
Properties • 88, 97, 101
ProSoft Technology® Product Documentation • 2
ProSoft Wireless Designer • 31, 33
ProSoft Wireless Designer Installation • 35
Protocol • 154
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
RLX2 Series ♦ 802.11a, b, g, n
Industrial Hotspots
QoS • 154
Radio access settings • 82, 93
Radio Configuration / Diagnostic Utility • 93
Radio hardware • 123
Radio Network Settings • 58, 115
Radio power requirements • 123
Radio Status • 42, 52
RadioLinx Industrial Hotspot Browser • 57, 87, 107
Range • 154
Rapid Spanning Tree Functionality • 67
Reference • 115
Regulatory Approvals • 133
Remote Access Point • 154
Remote device • 154
Repeater • 154
Repeater, Radio Mode • 154
Reset Columns • 102, 111
Retrieve the default password • 41, 42, 45
RLX2 Approved antennas • 138, 139
RLX2 Quick Setup • 19
RLX2-IHA Specifications • 127
RLX2-IHG Detailed Specifications • 128
RLX2-IHNF Detailed Specifications • 130
RLX2-IHW Detailed Specifications • 132
RS-232 • 154
RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) • 154
Scan • 87, 89, 90
Scan List • 88, 97, 99
Scan Setup • 89
Sector Antenna • 155
Security settings • 78
Select Columns • 102, 111
Serial Port Settings • 76
Set Up a Client • 115
Setup Client Radio • 28, 31
Setup Master Radio • 20
Setup Repeater Radio • 26
Show Parents • 102
Show Parents - All • 110
Show Parents - One • 110
Show Ping Stations • 102, 109
Signal Diversity • 155
Signal Loss • 155
Signal Strength • 155
Simplex • 155
Site Survey • 155
SNMP Agent settings • 83
Spanning Tree Settings • 56, 69, 115
Spectrum • 155
Spread Spectrum • 155
SSI • 155
Start Here • 9
ProSoft Technology, Inc.
November 29, 2012
Index
User Manual
Start Logging Events • 96
Start Ping Session • 88, 91, 94
Start Sniffing Packets • 95
Status Bar • 102, 103
Subnet Mask • 156
Support, Service & Warranty • 143
System Requirements • 14
Test the Network Installation Plan • 32, 39
The IH Browser Help System • 112
TKIP • 156
Tool Bar • 102
Toolbar • 102
Topology View • 87, 102, 106
Topology View key • 107
Troubleshoot IH Browser error messages • 42, 46
Troubleshoot missing radios • 42, 46, 87
UART • 156
Update Firmware • 52, 88, 91, 93
View Menu • 102
WAP • 156
WDS • 156
WEP • 156
WEP key • 78, 79, 80
Whip antennas • 136
Wi-Fi • 157
Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ • 157
Wi-Fi Interoperability Certificate • 157
Wi-Fi Protected Setup • 157
Wireless Clients • 88, 97
Wireless Gateway • 157
Wireless Network • 157
WLAN • 157
WPA • 157
WPA phrase • 78, 79
WPA2 • 157
Yagi Antenna • 158
Yagi Array Antenna • 137, 139
Your Feedback Please • 2
Zoom In • 102, 108
Zoom Out • 102, 108
Zoom to Fit • 102, 109
Page 161 of 161

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