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SNAPlink User Guide — 116-081614-031-A000
Getting Started
SNAPlink devices provide many configuration options for compatibility with nearly any RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485
device. This section provides instructions to get your devices up and running in using the DIP switches inside the
devices, or the EasySet software.
Powering the SNAPlink
You can power your SNAPlink units with 6–30 volts DC connected to the power terminal blocks, or through its
USB connection.
You may use the terminal blocks to provide power even when you have the device connected to a computer for
configuration (using the EasySet software) or for data transfer, though when connected to a USB port there is no
need for additional power. If you have both power options connected and disconnect one, the SNAPlink seamlessly
switches to the other power source.
Hand-tighten the terminal block screws. (To between 0.35 and 0.40 Nm (3.1 to 3.5 inch pounds) for best results.)
Understanding Point-to-Point Mode
All models of SNAPlink can operate in either point-to-point mode, also known as unicast, or in multipoint mode, also
known as multicast.
In point-to-point mode two SNAPlink units are paired, thereby providing a wireless connection between two external
serial devices.
To pair a point-to-point configuration:
1. Make sure both devices are powered.
2. On one SNAPlink device, hold the button for at least 5 seconds, until LED A turns red. Release the button and
LED A should be flashing red.
3. Repeat this process on the second SNAPlink device.
You should now find that LED A on both devices changes to solid green.
NOTE:
If you have an exceptionally noisy RF environment, you may find that one or both of the devices have
LED A flashing amber rather than green. If this occurs, you should consider switching your devices to a different
SNAP channel, which would use a different radio frequency. You can make this change using the EasySet
software or using the DIP switches inside the SNAPlink device.
Understanding Multipoint Mode
In multipoint mode, one of the SNAPlink devices is designated the master and one or more other devices can be
configured as slaves. In this configuration, messages sent by the master will be sent to all slave devices, while
