Digi PortServer/8 User Manual page 12

Connect a control terminal to the PortServer
The PortServer is controlled from a terminal (or PC with terminal emulation software) connected
to Port 1 on the PortServer's back panel. (Any port can be used, but we will use the convention
of Port 1 here.) In some installations, the PortServer can be controlled directly over the Ethernet;
see Configuring the PortServer over the Ethernet on page 5.
Step 1. Turn the PortServer's power switch OFF.
Step 2. Plug your serial terminal into Port 1 on the back of the PortServer box. One cable leg
converter (RJ-45 to DB-25) is included with your PortServer. Please note that this
Digi cable leg is wired straight-through, and that you will need a null modem cable
or adapter to connect a terminal if you use the included cable leg.
You probably do not need all ten RS-232 lines for a terminal connection, and may
wish to save the "pigtail" connector for other connections. The following diagram
shows a simple three-wire cable for connecting a terminal to the PortServer. Usually,
serial terminals and printers need only a three-wire connection. The PortServer
supports XON/XOFF (software) handshaking, so the only signal lines necessary are
Transmitted Data (TxD), Received Data (RxD) and Signal Ground (SG). Cables
must be shielded to remain in compliance with FCC certification requirements, and
the shield should be connected to Chassis Ground (GND) at one end of the cable
run.
The DB-25 end of the cable can be plugged directly into most serial terminals
without any adapters. The RJ-11 plug fits in the center of the PortServer's RJ-45
jack. (Be sure that the plug is centered in the jack!)
Page 4 Ÿ Quick Start
Plugging any electronic device into another device under power can
cause damage to one or both of the devices.