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8. TROUBLESHOOTING NETWORK PROBLEMS
Even with a properly designed and installed system, wire connections can still cause problems. If the installation is done
properly, preventing open or short circuits, the network will function without problems. If the network cannot be seen
through the computer it is necessary to identify the problem being experienced, and from there, identify the cause. The
following sections outline a few problems and how to identify the source of those problems.
8.1 ETHERNET NETWORK PROBLEMS
8.1.1 PROBLEM - CANNOT ACCESS THE SMARTCONNECT CONTROLLER
OVER THE INTERNET
If the SmartConnect Controller is not on the same local network as the controller, check the following most common
root causes of this issue:
1. The computer or mobile device is not connected to the internet.
2. The network controller is not connected to the internet.
3. The network controller is not functioning.
4. A wireless connection is not functioning.
8.1.2 PROBLEM- LOCAL COMPUTER CANNOT SEE THE SMARTCONNECT
CONTROLLER
Often, the sign of a network problem is that the computer cannot communicate to other devices on the network. When
a network fails, it prohibits communication among all of the devices on the network. If the computer is communicating
with some, but not all devices, this is considered a device-to-device problem. In a device-to-device instance, assume the
problem is not with the network itself.
Possible causes can be Ethernet switches, Routers, Firewall restrictions etc. Contact a network specialist to find the root
cause of these types of problems.
8.2 CAN NETWORK PROBLEMS
8.2.1 UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS OF THE PULSE MD NETWORK
The Pulse MD network uses an industrial CAN-bus communication protocol. It consists of a two-wire cable running in
a daisy chain configuration around the parlor with the Pulse MD and other SmartConnect devices attached. The blue
and white wires inside the wire looms are the network wires. For the network to function properly, a specific impedance
is necessary. The impedance is controlled by the type of wire used as well as the resistance of all devices attached to it.
There can be no more than 100 devices hooked to one network, but a single controller can handle up to four networks.
A network initiation module must be installed at the beginning of the network with a termination module at the end.
