Chassis Plans CPX-15, -17, -19 Technical Reference
Appendix D – Ethernet Network Connection
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Appendix D – Ethernet Network Connection
The CPX Family has an RJ-45 Ethernet port for control and monitoring over a network. This appendix
introduces the two user interface modes:
Command line direct mode (this is the default mode)
Browser based web server mode
There is also a short overview of the command set and how it is implemented in Appendix A.
QUICK GUIDE
Command line direct mode
: This is relevant when a PC application is used to send and receive
commands over the network port. The LCD Controller with the command line direct mode is installed as
default.
The RS-232 commands available are the same as documented Appendix A and writing a control application is
very similar to the RS-232 type except the commands must pass through the network. An alternative is to use an
application written for RS-232 communication and use a virtual serial port program such as:
One of the software program can be download at
http://www.taltech.com/products/tcpcom.html
.
This software can create “Virtual” RS232 serial ports that are actually connections to a TCP/IP port. This allows
you to use existing Windows based serial communications software to send and receive data across a TCP/IP
network.
Please note this is a 3rd party program and is not warranted nor is it the responsibility of Chassis Plans.
Browser based web server mode :
For experienced users the following quick guide to trying out the network connection and functions may
be useful.
Works with a normal network with DHCP, i.e. must use a router.
Connect the LCD to the network and ensure power is on.
Use the IP Locator utility available at
http://www.chassis-plans.com/ip-locator.zip
(Windows
only)
Double click on the IP address in the IP Locator window, it will open the LCD Controller browser
page in your default browser. Alternatively copy the IP address into your browser address line.
Test the functions that come up on the browser.
CAUTION
: Configuring TCP/IP settings are complicated and may require an experienced network administrator.
For additional help or network configuration, contract your network provider.
Connecting a network port to CPX Family
Connect the CPX Family to the network with a standard Cat-5 Ethernet cable.
Note: A straight RJ-45 cable
should be used to connect to the network switch/hub/router.