RadioLAN and its writers assume no responsibility for inaccuracies and reserve the right to modify and revise this document without notice. It is always our goal at RadioLAN to supply accurate and reliable documentation. If you discover a discrepancy in this document, please e-mail your comments or suggested corrections to marketing@radiolan.com.
Manual Conventions The following text formats are used throughout this manual: References to other locations in the manual or to other manuals provided by RadioLAN are italicized. Narrow Bold Letters describe buttons and fields on the screen. describe Screen Names or Screen Tab Names.
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Viewing the System Log... 62 Managing the DockLINK Locally...63 DockLINK Local Management ... 65 Configuring the DockLINK for use in the Dock Mode ... 66 Logging onto the DockLINK Configuration Screen... 67 Using the Main Menu ... 69 Working with the System Configuration Menu... 71 Configuration Manager Menu Items ...
Network device, such as a PC, workstation, or printer, allowing interaction with RadioLAN wireless network resources. The DockLINK includes a Radio Unit, a RJ-45 jack for connection to an Ethernet Hub, a power jack, and a special RJ11 serial port for connecting the DockLINK to a VT-100 terminal or modem.
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DockLINK. If you set an IP Address in the DockLINK, you will receive an IP Address response only when you Ping the DockLINK from the device to which it is connected.
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Designed for Simplicity The DockLINK is designed to be installed and set up quickly. If you require no more than basic management of packet flow, you can simply install the DockLINK and begin using its powerful network access capabilities. In circumstances like these, there is no need for custom configuration.
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The DockLINK includes a built-in serial port for connecting a VT-100 terminal or a modem. Using a terminal allows you serial access configuration and system performance pages. Connecting a modem to the Serial port allows you to dial into the DockLINK from a remote location to log in and configure or view system performance. System Requirements To successfully place a DockLINK into operation, you must meet the following requirements: The DockLINK must connect directly to a 10BaseT Network Interface Card.
10BaseT equipment and puts it onto the wireless network. Like other RadioLAN products, the DockLINK is easy to install in just a few steps. 1. Locate the DockLINK near to the 10BaseT device, like the printer in Figure 3.
Installation of the DockLINK does not require the use of tools, and no configuration is needed in the DockLINK for operation. If your site uses RadioLAN SubNet ID codes, or encryption, then the DockLINK will need to be configured before operation.
Designing Your System This section describes the best ways to locate one or more DockLINKs, and to orient the DockLINK’s Radio Unit. For best performance, orient the DockLINK’s Radio Unit perpendicular to the horizon. Because signal strength and quality diminish when the Radio Unit is enclosed, it is best to locate the Radio Unit outside of cabinets. The most suitable locations are above obstacles such as cubical walls or shelves.
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To test for best signal quality, locate a temporary wireless station in the location at which you intend to locate the DockLINK. Use the N station on the network to verify signal quality. Also test locations where fixed wireless stations are not normally located, such as conference rooms.
Installing the DockLINK Before installing the DockLINK, note the DockLINK’s Media Access Control (MAC) Address. Each DockLINK’s MAC Address is noted on the bottom of the DockLINK’s housing. There are three basic inputs required by the DockLINK (see Figure 5):...
DockLINK and all wireless stations that communicate with it. You can locate the DockLINK assembly on the desk next to your PC, or when using a longer Category 5 cable, you can mount the assembly on a wall, or ceiling.
Connecting the DockLINK You must connect the DockLINK to the station’s 10BaseT Network Interface Card and to the power adapter. Optionally, you can also connect a modem or VT-100 terminal to the DockLINK for local configuration. Follow these steps to connect external cabling to the DockLINK: 1.
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Network Interface Card and the 10BaseT jack on the DockLINK. Connect the cable to the DockLINK first, and then connect the other end of the cable to the port on the station’s Network Interface Card. 5. Set the MDI/MDI-X push-button switch to the correct setting for the RJ-45 Dual- modular cable.
DockLINK an IP Address. Connect the DockLINK To use the IP ASSIGN Utility, you must first connect DockLINK to the station’s 10BaseT Network Interface Card. The station must not be running a DHCP server while performing this procedure. 1. Determine the method that you are using to assign the IP Address:...
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The DockLINK’s Power LED illuminates. If you are using the local station, see Using the IP ASSIGN Utility to Optionally assign the DockLINK’s IP Address on page 15. If you are using the DockLINK Local Port, see Managing the DockLINK Locally on page 65.
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The utility returns a page listing of the MAC Addresses for all non-configured DockLINKs on the LAN segment. 3. Highlight the MAC Address for the DockLINK that you want to configure. 4. Enter the desired temporary IP Address for the DockLINK. Later, you can permanently set it using the IP screen. ARAMETERS The utility checks the IP Address to verify its validity.
Web browser. Your browser must support Java script and frames. After launching your browser, enter the IP Address for the DockLINK. If you just setup the DockLINK for the first time, you should have already assigned the DockLINK’s IP Address using the IP ASSIGN Utility, or with the VT-100 terminal.
Accessing the DockLINK with the Browser To access the DockLINK with your browser, follow these steps: 1. Open your Web browser. 2. In the browser’s address field, type the IP Address for the DockLINK, and then press Enter. The DockLINK’s L page appears.
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Product ID The Product ID field is a read-only field that reports the Product ID for the DockLINK. Enter User Name The Enter User Name field is an entry field where you enter your user name to gain access to the configuration and diagnostic pages.
DockLINK Manager Layout The DockLINK Manger uses frames that allow you to size and view the pages according to your needs. The menu is made up of seven major topics: Node Discovery – Find connected stations here. System Features – Enable enhanced DockLINK features here.
ISCOVERY currently within data range of the DockLINK. Nodes found on this screen are connected to the local station using the DockLINK as a bridge. The page displays a table with two main tabs: Station List Connectivity...
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Station List The Station List tab shows a list of stations that are currently connected to the DockLINK. The list is a table with a number of columns. Clicking on column headings sorts the list alphabetically. Clicking the table heading again reverses the sort.
The page contains User 1 – 3 Logon Name fields, and User 1 – 3 Password fields. Since you can only access the DockLINK from the local station, you may wish to use only the User 1 Login Name and Password.
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IP Parameters IP Parameters allow you to set up information about the IP Address for the DockLINK. The IP P page contains fields that allow you to set up IP Parameters. The following items are on the IP page: ARAMETERS...
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The IP Address field allows you to designate the IP Address for the DockLINK. The IP Address identifies the DockLINK to the station to which it is connected, but not the wireless Network. The format of an IP Address is a 32- bit numeric address written as four numbers separated by periods.
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250.040.123.243 The DockLINK is set for no DHC by DEFAULT. While operating, the DockLINK does not use a public IP address for use in DHCP functions. If the Ethernet connection is disconnected, then the DockLINK operates on the DHCP by way of the radio interface.
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Acquire system IP Only Radio Button Select this button to cause the DockLINK to automatically search for, and acquire the DHCP Server IP Address. If the DockLINK finds the server address, that address appears in the DHCP Server IP Address field. This is the factory default in version 2.00 units.
DockLINK. This screen displays software options that are currently enabled. If you are using DockLINK version 2.0 or higher, the screen allows you to use one choice: Dock Mode...
This selection enables or disables Data Encryption on DockLINK data packets. Checked Enables Data Encryption. Only stations that share the same encryption key can exchange data with the DockLINK. Clear Disables Data Encryption. All users with the same Subnet ID can share network resources.
Entries on this page other than the Port Name field can disable communication with the Network Interface Card: RadioLAN Recommends that you avoid making changes to items on this page. Although unnecessary, if you have a particularly special application, you can edit other items on the screen.
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MAC Address Filter The MAC Address Filter check box allows you to enable or disable the DockLINK’s internal MAC Address Filter. The MAC Address Filter is a database that stores MAC Addresses received by the DockLINK while communicating with the 10BaseT Network Interface Card and RadioLAN Wireless Network. Once information is stored in the database, you can allow or disallow packet flow to or from remote addresses in the database.
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Block NetBIOS Packets Port Name The Port Name field allows you to enter up to 12 characters that identify the name of the DockLINK. This appears as the DockLINK’s Station Name for users of Radionet Manager or the EZRadio configuration programs. It...
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MAC Address Filter The MAC Address Filter check box allows you to enable or disable the DockLINK’s internal MAC Address Filter. The MAC Address Filter is a database that stores MAC Addresses received by the DockLINK while communicating with the RadioLAN Wireless Network.
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Setting the Baud Rate for the Local Port The DockLINK allows you to connect and manage with a local terminal. This screen allows you to set the baud rate for the terminal. Select from the following available baud rates: 9600 baud...
Managing Packet Flow through the DockLINK The DockLINK can selectively allow or disallow traffic to or from the 10BaseT Network Interface Card and the RadioLAN wireless network. Proper packet flow management improves the speed of the RadioLAN wireless network by eliminating unwanted network traffic.
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Mask Bytes Source/Dest Accept/Reject Item The Item column shows the order in which the DockLINK stored the database entry. MAC Address The MAC Address column displays the MAC Address for the remote network node. Mask Bytes The Mask Bytes column displays the subnet mask address for the network node.
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DockLINK will not allow a message broadcast from that MAC Address to pass through. If the Source/Dest column contains Destination, and the Accept/Reject column contains Reject, the DockLINK will not allow the message intended for that MAC Address to pass through.
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Choose Destination if you want to filter messages that are broadcast from other nodes and intended for receipt by the MAC Address. 3. Allow or disallow the passage of the packet through the DockLINK, based upon the broadcast type (source or destination) in the Source/Dest Column: Choose Accept to allow the passage of packets to/from the MAC Address.
Interrogating DockLINK for Performance Information Performance is a combination of speed and accuracy. When the DockLINK transmits at higher rates, and retransmits packets fewer times, it has a higher rate of performance. Most users discover performance issues when sending large files from one node to another.
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Pressing the button resets all counters on this page to zero. Total Packets Transmitted Total Packets Transmitted counts and stores the total Figure 23: 10BaseT Port Statistics Page number of packets that the DockLINK sends to local station. This number represents all transmitted packets. 890-010 12/04/98 Page 45...
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Total Packets Received Total Packets Received counts and stores the total number of packets that the local station sends to DockLINK. This number represents all received packets. Total Error Packets This field displays the total number of Ethernet errors accumulated.
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Checking Radio Port Statistics The R ADIO TATISTICS DockLINK’s ability to communicate with wireless stations. The information on this page is automatically updated every ten seconds. This section describes the Page. ADIO TATISTICS The page has two major sections: Packet Transmission Packet Reception The screen also contains a Clear Counters button.
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The Packet Transmission stores information about packets that are sent from the DockLINK to wireless stations on the network. Total Packets Transmitted Total Packets Transmitted counts and stores the total number of packets that the DockLINK sends to wireless stations on the network. The number displayed all transmitted packets. Average Transmit Rate (Packets/Sec.) Sometimes packets are transmitted faster than at other times.
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Packet Reception The Packet Reception indicates the DockLINK’s ability to receive packets from distant wireless stations. Total Packets Received Total Packets Received counts and stores the total number of packets that the remote wireless stations send to the DockLINK. This number represents all received packets.
DockLINK. On this page, type in the name of the file that you want to download, then click the download button to download the file from your station’s disk drive.
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Download causes the DockLINK to retrieve the specified software file from the specified location. The downloaded file is written into system memory as the DockLINK receives it. As the DockLINK reboots after downloading, the new operating system runs immediately. 890-010 12/04/98...
DockLINK to act. Save All Changes and Reset Radio Button This item causes all changes that you have made during this session to overwrite existing program entries. The DockLINK uses the new configuration after it restarts the system. 890-010 12/04/98 ONFIGURATION...
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This item causes all changes that you have made to change back to their original settings. Reset Configuration to Factory Default Radio Button This item causes the DockLINK to change all configuration items to their factory default settings. The DockLINK uses the new configuration after the next system restart.
DockLINK’s operating system, you must reset the DockLINK. One method of resetting the DockLINK is to remove power from the unit for approximately five seconds. Another method for resetting the DockLINK is found on the R...
The Frames to Send field sets the number of packets that will be sent until the Ping session ends. After you start the Ping, the DockLINK sends this number of packets. The test ends when you press the Stop button, or when the count ends, whichever is first.
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This button starts the Ping test. After you have entered all selections, press this button to start the Ping test. The test runs until you press Stop, or until DockLINK has sent the same number of test packets as selected in Frames to send.
Recording Important System Information Having system information on hand is essential to proper system management. The DockLINK Manager makes it easy to keep information on hand, recording configuration information that was last saved (see Saving or Rejecting Configuration Setting Changes on page 53).
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Subnet Mask Default Gateway 890-010 12/04/98 This information is loaded into the DockLINK from the factory. The information in this field should match the MAC Address noted on the bottom of the DockLINK. This information is loaded into the DockLINK from the factory. The information in this field should match the MAC Address noted on the bottom of the DockLINK.
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System Up Time 890-010 12/04/98 States the Boot Software Version stored in the DockLINK. States the Software Version that the DockLINK is currently using. States the System Software File Name. States the Hardware Version of the DockLINK. States the date when the DockLINK was manufactured.
The screen displays a list with the following columns: Item This displays the item number on the list. As new events appear, the DockLINK issues new numbers. Task The Task column lists the task that initiated the message. Error No.
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The DockLINK uses an RJ11 jack for connection to the terminal. Use of this port requires a special interface cable that connects between the Serial Port jack and a DB9F serial connector. The pin-outs for this cable are shown in Table 2.
The DockLINK Local Management software program allows you to view screens that contain configuration information about the DockLINK. Using this program, you can assign passwords, set up IP Addresses for the DockLINK, set address filters, test system performance, and view system performance statistics.
Configuring the DockLINK for use in the Dock Mode When using the DockLINK in the Dock Mode to transform a hard-wired network station into a wireless station, the following configuration items apply. Prompt For more information, see . . .
S YSTEM ONFIGURATION CREEN Serial Number The Serial Number field is a read-only field that reports the DockLINK’s Serial Number. 890-010 12/04/98 CCESS ECURITY Page 67 Figure 34: Logon Menu...
See information about this selection. System Features System Features takes you to the S menu, where you can select the DockLINK unit’s mode of operation and Data Encryption. See S selection. 890-010 12/04/98...
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Configuration Menu on page 71 for more information about this selection. System Statistics System statistics allows you to see the historical performance of the DockLINK. See S about this selection. System Status System Status allows you to interrogate the DockLINK for current system performance information.
Working with the System Configuration Menu After selecting System Configuration on the Main Menu, the System Configuration menu appears, allowing you to setup a number of DockLINK network functions. The menu contains the following items: Administration Parameters IP Parameters 890-010 12/04/98 This selection is not needed for DockLINK.
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This item is not used with the DockLINK Selecting this item displays the S OFTWARE specify the file name for DockLINK software updates. See S on page 80 for more information about this selection. Page 72 10BaseT Port 10BaseT MAC...
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ONFIGURATION HANGES selection. This selection displays the S YSTEM operational characteristics of the DockLINK. S more information about this selection. This selection leads you to the B RIDGING enable Data Encryption and set the encryption key. See D on page 77 for more information about this selection.
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Subnet Mask on page 27 Default Gateway IP Address on page 27 Page 75 Notes Identifies the DockLINK on a TCP/IP network. Each number can range from 0 to 255. For example, 250.142.15.200 Determines the subnet and IP Address for the DockLINK.
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Menu Radio Port Parameters Menu ADIO ARAMETERS 890-010 12/04/98 Refer to: Securing the DockLINK with Data Encryption on page 31 Data Encryption Enabled Check Box on page 31 Encryption Key on page 31 on page 31 Setting up10BaseT Port Parameters on page 32...
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Refer to: Source/Dest on page 41 Accept on page 42 Adding MAC Filters on page 42 Managing Packet Flow through the DockLINK on page 40 Interrogating DockLINK for Performance Information on page Checking 10BaseT Port Statistics on page 45 Page 79...
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47 Checking 10BaseT Port Statistics on page 45 Checking Radio Port Statistics on page 47 Discovering Wireless Nodes Within the DockLINK’s Data Range on page 21 Upgrading System Software on page 50 Upgrading System Software on page 50 Page 80...
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Setting Changes on page 53 Save All Changes and Reset Radio Button on page 53 Page 81 Notes DockLINK does not use this feature. Allows you to enter the file name of the operating system file that you want to download.
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Reload Last Saved Configuration Radio Button on page 54 Reset Configuration to Factory Default Radio Button on page 54 Testing DockLINK Connectivity to the Wireless Network on page 56 Setting the Frames to Send on page 56 Setting the Frame Size on page...
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Information on page 59 Page 83 Notes Choose Start or Stop Indicates the total number of packets transmitted by the DockLINK to the stations during Ping testing Counts and stores the average number of retransmissions based upon the total number of packets transmitted...
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Viewing the System Log on page Page 84 Notes Displays the System Information menu, where you can collect version, contact, and other information about the DockLINK Displays the S . The YSTEM log stores and displays system events such as system start, warm start, or password authentication.
The DockLINK bridges traffic between the local station and the wireless network. The unit provides several indicators of its status and, with either a serial terminal or Web based access, a user may use the tools built into the DockLINK to further examine the network connection and help troubleshoot a problem report.
Generally, 10BaseT ports on an adapter card are configured as MDI, and 10BaseT ports on a repeater/hub are configured as MDI-X. The DockLink allows you to configure its 10BaseT port as an MDI (switch out position) or MDI-X (switch in position) port. The abbreviation MDI stands for Media Dependent Interface, and is specified by the IEEE 802.3i 10BaseT standard to be the electrical and mechanical interface to the UTP wire.
Serial Port connector RadioLAN Part Number 910-011 is a Serial port interface is provided through a 4-pin shielded RJ-11 connector. The pin-out is described in the following table and figure: Signal Description Ground Serial Out (from computer) Serial In (to computer)
Getting Technical Support If you have technical questions, or have determined that your equipment is damaged, RadioLAN offers a number of ways to get assistance: 1. Contact your local RadioLAN reseller where you purchased the product. 2. See the RadioLAN Web Site for technical assistance: http://www.radiolan.com...