RLE Technologies FDS-PC Quick Start Manual

Protocol Converter

Quick Start Guide

Dual-Port Protocol Converter
Standard Protocol Converter
T
hank you for purchasing the FDS-PC Protocol Converter. This guide
describes how to install the Protocol Converter.
If you need further assistance, contact RLE Technologies on our
website at http://www.rletech.com/ (go to the Support Link) or by calling
970.484.6510, Option 2.
1
Pre-Installation
Information You Need
Consult with your IT administrator to determine the following network settings for
the Protocol Converter:
IP address ___________________________________

Subnet mask ___________________________________

Default gateway___________________________________


Supplies You Need

18 AWG shielded, twisted-pair stranded copper wire for EIA-485 Modbus

RTU communication. RLE recommends no more than 2,000 feet (609.6m) of
wire at this specification. If longer runs are needed, contact RLE Technologies
for application guidance.
Straight-through CAT5 cable for network connectivity.

Straight-through, nine-pin serial cable (temporary connection; only as

necessary).
18 – 22 AWG ground wire.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection.

2

Mounting the Protocol Converter

The Protocol Converter comes in a 19-inch (.48m), rack-mount enclosure. Rack-
mount brackets and hardware are included.
1 Attach the brackets to the sides of the Protocol Converter using the
hardware provided.
2 Install the Protocol Converter in the rack.
3 Use the proper anchoring method to mount the unit securely.
3

Wiring the Protocol Converter

Connect the wiring for the Protocol Converter as described in the following
subsections.
IMPORTANT
Before connecting any wiring, be sure to take precautions to protect
the Protocol Converter from electrostatic discharge.

Power Supply and Ground Connections

1 Connect power to the Protocol Converter in one of two ways:
a Plug the wall adapter (provided) into the power jack on the Protocol
Converter and into a UPS outlet.
b Connect a dedicated 24VDC power supply to the + and - terminals to the
left of the power jack.
2 Connect an 18 – 22 AWG ground wire (not included) to the Protocol
Converter's ground lug and to a suitable earth ground.
Note:
RLE Technologies recommends powering the Protocol Converter
from a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) so the Protocol Converter
can send alarm notifications during a power outage.

RJ45 Ethernet Connection

The Protocol Converter has an internal 10/100BaseT Ethernet port used to
configure the Protocol Converter. The Ethernet port supports Web browser
access, BACnet, Modbus, SNMP, and SMTP (email).
Direct connection between the Protocol Converter and a computer or laptop using
the crossover cable (provided):
Typical Protocol Converter connection on a subnet using a hub or switch and
straight-through CAT5 cables:

EIA-232 COM Connection

The EIA-232 port can be connected to a PC for IP configuration, firmware
downloads, and troubleshooting. The EIA-232 is typically only used as a
temporary connection.
Connect the straight through, 9-pin, serial cable:

Modbus EIA-485 Connections

The Protocol Converter can function as a Modbus Slave or Modbus Master over
an EIA-485 hardware connection. The Dual Port Protocol Converter has two
2-wire and one 2- or 4-wire EIA-485 ports for extended Modbus communication
over multiple trunk lines.