Kidde HART XL User Manual page 14

LaserNET™ Program User's Guide
1-5 SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS
HART XL detection systems are configured in one of two forms as explained in the following paragraphs.
Additional detail is available in the manuals supplied with the system hardware.
1-5.1 Non-Networked Systems
1-5.1.1 DIRECT CONNECTION
This connection is created by connecting a computer running LaserNET software to the Detector via a
programming cable (P/N 53800-H08) from the computer's RS-232 port to the RS-232 jack located on the
side of the Detector.
1-5.2 Networked Systems
LaserNET can communicate with the Intelligent Interface Module (IIM) either through a local computer or a
remote computer via a modem. All Detectors networked through the IIM can be completely configured and
monitored through the LaserNET-IIM connection. The IIM can monitor any fire alarm control panel for com-
mon alarm and fault conditions. These alarm and fault inputs can be displayed in LaserNET.
The computer running LaserNET software is connected directly to the IIM via a programming cable (P/N
53800-H08) from the computer’s RS-232 port to the IIM computer port or connected remotely to the IIM via
the computer’s modem and telephone line.
Figure 1-2. IIM System Showing Local IIM and Remote IIM Connections
1-5.3 Computers Without 9-Pin COM Ports
Manufacturers of new notebook computers do not always incorporate a standard 9-pin COM port for serial
communication to external devices. Instead, USB ports are becoming the industry standard. This presents
a problem when using these computers to communicate with the HART Detector using LaserNET.
There are several sources providing conversion devices that will convert the USB port to a standard 9-pin
COM port. These devices work with limited and inconsistent results.
As an alternative to using USB to COM port converters, we recommend adding a standard 9-pin COM port
to the computer by incorporating a PCMCIA Serial I/O Adapter. These type of adapters can be added to any
notebook computer that has a PCMCIA slot. Virtually all notebook computers incorporate at least one of
these slots.
We have tested and recommend using a model of this adapter offered by the Black Box Corporation (Part
Number IC115A-R2). This recommended device should provide consistent communication with the HART
Detector across a wide range of computers, and the setup process is relatively straightforward. Black Box
can be contacted at www.blackbox.com.
Note: Please be advised that this model will only work if the computer has a PCMCIA slot.
TM0048
RS-232
Detector
Figure 1-1. Example of a Direct Connection
PC running
LaserNET
software
1-2 September 2003