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Optimizer User's Guide
RedPort Router - wXa-122
Copyright © Global Marine Networks, LLC

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  • Page 1 Optimizer User’s Guide RedPort Router - wXa-122 Copyright © Global Marine Networks, LLC...
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents About this guide Introduction to RedPort Optimizer Getting Started - Router Administration RedPort Halo WiFi Extender GPS Tracking GPS/NMEA Repeater Signal Monitor GSM . Restrict Wireless Network Access . 10.0 Rename the Wireless Network. 11.0 Change Admin Password .
  • Page 3 Optimizer User’s Guide Revision History Date Revision Author December 15, 2014 Initial Release D. Brickhouse March 19, 2015 Version 2.0 D. Brickhouse Optimizer User’s Guide Copyright © Global Marine Networks, LLC Page 3 of 45...
  • Page 4: About This Guide

    It includes important information regarding the physical connection setup and initial configuration for email. wXa refers to the webXaccelerator by RedPort, a trademark of Global Marine Networks, LLC. The following chapter references will help you in administering the most-used features of the Optimizer.
  • Page 5: Introduction To Redport Optimizer

    The company’s products include XGate high-speed satellite email, WeatherNet weather and oceanographic data software, and vessel tracking systems. Ship to shore network management solutions are sold by GMN under the RedPort Global brand name at www.redportglobal.com and as white-label solutions for the world’s premier satellite data service service providers.
  • Page 6: Getting Started - Router Administration

    CAUTION: The Optimizer ships pre-configured for use with XGate satellite email/data service and the optional RedPort Halo WiFi Extender. Tampering with any settings that are not addressed in this Guide will violate the warranty and may render the Optimizer inoperable.
  • Page 7 Once logged in, you will see the Optimizer's Home screen. NOTE: The WiFi Extender Setup section only displays when the optional RedPort Halo WiFi Extender is physically connected to the Optimizer and powered ON. NOTE: An alternate method to access the user interface: With power to the...
  • Page 8 The Halo long-range WiFi extender system takes a weak WiFi signal – at a marina, for example, or truck stop, basecamp, etc – and amplifies that signal and routes it through the RedPort Optimizer WiFi hotspot. It has a marine enclosure designed for outside installation. Install the WiFi Extender almost anywhere outside.
  • Page 9 Select <Scan> to see what wireless networks may be available. Select the wireless network you want to connect to and press <Join Network> Enter the password to access the external wireless network, if required. Select <Submit>. Notice the signal strength is 0% as you are not yet connected to the wireless network. Select <Save &...
  • Page 10 Notice that now the signal strength now registers greater than 0%. NOTE: If the signal status is blinking from 0% to 100% this typically means that the WiFi Network Password/Key was entered incorrectly. Check with the external WiFi Network Administrator to confirm the correct password. Select the Wireless Security tab and enter the correct password in the Key field and <Save &...
  • Page 11 All traffic is now routed through the WiFi Extender. You can run XGate and XWeb. To return to routing traffic through your satellite device, simply select <Disable WiFi Extender>. 4.1.3 Step 3. Manage the Firewall (optional) By default, the firewall is ENABLED. This means that ALL traffic from your computer is blocked from the internet with the exception of XGate and XWeb traffic.
  • Page 12 Your computer now has full access to the internet for syncing applications, browsing, etc. To turn the Firewall back on, select <Enable Firewall> 4.2 Disconnect from the Halo To disconnect from the Halo select <Disable WiFi Extender> Notice that the Firewall is turned back on automatically to protect you from runaway airtime charges.
  • Page 13: Gps Tracking

    5.0 GPS Tracking If you wish to have tracking service using your satellite device, the Optimizer offers GPS Tracking service powered by GSatTrack or Tracking service via SMS message. 5.1 Tracking powered by GSatTrack Using a GPS-enabled satellite device, the Optimizer can be configured to submit position reports to a central database for viewing on the tracking website.
  • Page 14 Step 1. Enter the Tracking Interval in minutes; the default is set to hourly reporting (60 minutes). This means that every 60 minutes a position report will be transmitted over your satellite link. Keep in mind that standard airtime charges will apply to each postition report.
  • Page 15 Step 1. Enter the Tracking Interval in minutes; the default is set to hourly reporting (60 minutes). This means that every 60 minutes a position report will be transmitted via the SMS service provided by your satellite provider network. Keep in mind that standard SMS charges may apply to each postition report.
  • Page 16: Gps/Nmea Repeater

    6.0 GPS/NMEA Repeater The Optimizer supports USB and RS-232 NMEA devices allowing multiple applications to share the GPS/NMEA data. If you have a NMEA RS-422 device, adding a RS-422 to RS-232 converter to your setup may allow the sharing of data. The Optimizer does not transmit data but can be configured to receive and repeat GPS/NMEA data from: •...
  • Page 17 6.1 Equipment Setup A physical connection is required from the source (satellite terminal or satellite phone that transmits GPS coordinates, or other GPS/NMEA device) to the Optimizer. 6.1.1 Broadband Satellite Terminal with Integrated GPS When using a supported broadband satellite terminal with integrated GPS, connect the terminal to the Optimizer SAT port using a standard ethernet cable.
  • Page 18 6.1.2 Handheld Satellite Phone with Integrated GPS When using a supported USB connected satphone with integrated GPS, connect the satphone to the Optimizer using the Mini-USB (satphone) to USB (Optimizer) cable. (OPTIONAL: Use an ethernet cable to connect the computer with the destination software, like a navigation program, to the Optimizer LAN port.) The Optimizer will broadcast the GPS signal both over Ethernet and WiFi, so you can connect your computer either way in order to establish a successful connection with...
  • Page 19 6.1.3 USB NMEA Device When using a NMEA device that supports a USB connection, connect the GPS/NMEA device to the Optimizer with an appropriate USB to NMEA device cable as indicated by the NMEA device manufacturer. (OPTIONAL: Use an ethernet cable to connect the computer with the destination software, like a navigation program, to the Optimizer LAN port.) The Optimizer will broadcast the GPS signal both over Ethernet and WiFi, so you can connect your computer either way in order to establish a successful connection with...
  • Page 20 6.1.4 RS-232 NMEA Device With Serial Port Connector When using a NMEA device with Serial Port connection, a USB to Serial Adapter (PL-2303HX) is required to connect the device to the Optimizer. CAUTION: The PL-2303HX is the only USB to Serial Adapter that is compatible with the Optimizer.
  • Page 21 Without Serial Port Connector Some NMEA devices do not have a serial port; instead they have a group of wires extending from the back or bottom of the unit. These devices require proper wiring to a serial port. As the Optimizer does not transmit, it only repeats the data, you will only need two of the wires.
  • Page 22 6.2 GPS/NMEA Repeater Parameters Configuration In order for the destination software to properly route the GPS data you must configure the GPS/NMEA Repeater Parameters in the Optimizer User Interface. From the Optimizer Home page select Services > GPS/NMEA Repeater tab. Step 1.
  • Page 23 Step 4. UDP Port - Enter the UDP port number to broadcast the GPS data to. The default is set to the standard UDP Port for NMEA 183 devices of 11101. (Note: configure the destination software to match this port number; or, change this entry to match the requirements of the destination software.) Step 5.
  • Page 24: Signal Monitor

    7.0 Signal Monitor Signal monitor queries your satellite device to determine if the signal strength is sufficient to make a successful data connection. Typically, a minimum of 60% signal is required; however, 100% is ideal for the fastest possible data transfer rate. NOTE: Some of the older satellite phones (for example, the Iridium 9505a) do not support the signal monitor feature.
  • Page 25: Gsm

    8.0 GSM The GSM feature is offered for your convenience but we are not able to support it. The information provided here is general in nature but may not be sufficient to establish a GSM connection. If you run into any difficulties you must contact your GSM network provider for support.
  • Page 26 To configure the Optimizer for GSM service. Login to the Optimizer and go to: Services > PPP > Settings > GSM. Step 1. Enter the Access Point Name (APN) as provided to you by your cellular carrier. Step 2. If you have protected your cellular SIM card with a pincode, enter the pincode here.
  • Page 27 Step 4. Enter the username required for access to the APN, if any. Step 5. Enter the password required for access to the APN, if any. Step 6. Click <Save & Apply> Optimizer User’s Guide Copyright © Global Marine Networks, LLC Page 27 of 45...
  • Page 28 8.2 Using GSM When you want to use GSM service instead of satellite service: Plug the USB data dongle you obtained from your cellular provider into the Optimizer's USB port. IMPORTANT: If your satellite terminal is connected to the Optimizer's SAT port, unplug the cable from the SAT port before attempting a GSM connection.
  • Page 29 8.3 Changing from GSM service to satellite service When you travel beyond GSM range you must: • Remove the GSM data dongle from the Optimizer's USB port. • Connect your satellite phone/terminal to the Optimizer (either via USB port or SAT port).
  • Page 30: Restrict Wireless Network Access

    9.0 Restrict Wireless Network Access When in public locations, for example, a crowded marina or anchorage, you may want to restrict access to your WiFi hotspot created by your satellite device and the Optimizer. You can password protect your WiFi hotspot so others cannot use it. The easiest way to add password protection to your WiFi hotspot is to modify the XGate Settings.
  • Page 31 Step 1. Select the Encryption mode from the drop down menu. We suggest WPA- PSK/WPA2-PSK Mixed Mode. Step 2. Enter your desired password in the Key field. Step 3. Click <Save & Apply> This procedure adds/changes the password for the WiFi hotspot only. When connecting your computer, iOS or Android device to the wireless network, this is the password you will use.
  • Page 32: Rename The Wireless Network

    10.0 Rename the Wireless Network It is possible to change the name of your wireless network. This is the name of the wireless network that you connect to using your computer or iOS or Android device. The default name is wXa-112-xxxx where the xxxx represents a unique number. The easiest way to change the wireless network (WiFi hotspot) name is to modify the XGate Settings.
  • Page 33 Step 1. Enter the new wireless network name in ESSID field. Step 2. Click <Save & Apply> This procedure changes the name for the WiFi hotspot only. When connecting your computer, iOS or Android device to the wireless network, this is the network name that will appear in the wireless network list.
  • Page 34 11.0 Change Superadmin and/or Admin Password The default password for both the superadmin login and the admin login is set to: webxaccess. The easiest way to change the login admin password is to modify the XGate Settings. See the XGate Help File > User Interface > Settings > Optimizer, wXa, & Sat-Fi for details.
  • Page 35 When logged in as the superadmin, you will see this screen. If logged in as the admin user, you can only change the password for the admin login. Step 1. Enter the new password in the password text box. Step 2. Enter the same password again in the Confirmation text box. Step 3.
  • Page 36: Update Firmware

    12.0 Update Optimizer Firmware Get the latest Optimizer firmware version from here: http://www.redportglobal.com/support/technical-downloads/ Save the .bin file to your computer (pc or mac) NOTE: If you have created any Profiles you may want to Export them before flashing new firmware and Import them when done. See Chapter 16 for Profiles details. Login to the Optimizer and go to: System >...
  • Page 37 Step 2. <Browse> to where you saved the .bin file and select that file. Step 3. Select <Flash Image> Step 4. Wait for the grey button on top of the Optimizer to begin flashing. When the button stops flashing, the firmware is done updating. This typically takes several minutes.
  • Page 38: Access System Log

    13.0 Access System Log If you are experiencing connection issues your service provider may request that you send them a copy of the Optimizer System Log. Step 1. Attempt an email connection Step 2. Login to the Optimizer Home page Step 3.
  • Page 39: Reboot

    14.0 Reboot the Optimizer Router The easiest way to reboot the Optimizer is to use the reset button on the bottom of the router. Using a pointed instrument, press and hold the red reset button for 20-30 seconds and release. Wait for the Optimizer reboot, this will take several minutes. After this reset, the Optimizer will be configured with its factory defaults.
  • Page 40 Step 3. Select <Perform reboot> The grey button on top of the Optimizer will flash during the reboot process. When the light stops flashing the reboot is complete. This will take several minutes. During the reboot process you will lose access to the Optimizer User Interface. You must login again if you want access.
  • Page 41: System Status For Monitoring Usage

    15.0 System Status for Monitoring Usage For those that are interested, you can view the connection status in Status > Realtime Graphs Optimizer User’s Guide Copyright © Global Marine Networks, LLC Page 41 of 45...
  • Page 42: Profiles

    16.0 Profiles Profiles is designed for users of multiple satellite devices and integrators of custom installations. You can configure the Optimizer for a specific satellite device and save the profile. This is good for failover situations when using multiple devices. An extreme example would be that you might have the firewall wide open on a VSAT device but in an emergency must use an Iridium handheld device where you want the full protection of the Optimizer firewall.
  • Page 43 To create and use a new Profile: Step 1. Select <Add> Step 2. Enter a Name of the new profile and a description. Step 3. Select <Install> to add the new profile. Step 4. Select <Save & Apply>. To change from using one profile to another, simply select <Install> for the desire profille, then <Save &...
  • Page 44: Firewall Modification

    17.0 Firewall Modification By default, the Optimizer ships with a powerful firewall configured to block ALL inbound or outbound traffic except XGate email, web and weather. This configuration protects you from experiencing runaway satellite airtime bills. If you have a need to open the firewall, go to: Network > Firewall > Traffic Rules These are the firewall rules that protect you.
  • Page 45 This concludes the RedPort Optimizer User Guide. If you have a question that is not addressed in this Guide or if you have recommendations to improve the usefulness of this Guide, please contact us at: support@gmn-usa.com Optimizer User’s Guide Copyright © Global Marine Networks, LLC...
  • Page 46 • BGAN - “Network Connection” (Unmanaged Connection) • Thuraya - “webXacc Thuraya” GPS Tracking Optimizer works as a tracking device with the industry-leading RedPort Tracking service. Optimizer provides tracking data using the GPS chip built into many satellite terminals. For more information, visit http://tracking.redportglobal.com Optional Equipment •...
  • Page 47 Inmarsat BGAN / Iridium Pilot /
 FleetBroadband Settings OpenPort Settings Optimizer supports both managed and unmanaged Optimizer supports both managed and unmanaged connections for Inmarsat broadband users. connections for Iridium Pilot/OpenPort. Managed connections are intended for satellite Managed connections are highly preferable for most Pilot/ terminals configured to be offline except when a data OpenPort installations with an Optimizer.

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