PTI Security Systems
Wireless RS485 Installation and Troubleshooting Instructions
4/8/14
Rev A
Page 3 of 4
RS-‐485 network and verify that the system is using 9600 baud for the Falcon Base Unit or
Falcon XT or 2400 Baud if using the SYSCON. If these systems are set for other baud rates, a
custom modem configuration is required changing the baud rate. Note that on the Falcon
Base unit or XT you must also select 2 stop bits. The baud rates for both modems should be
set the same.
Once this step is complete, leave the modem on and connected to the controller’s RS-‐485
network.
Step 3 – Connect the Modem to the Remote RS-‐485 Network
Connect the modem to the remote RS-‐485 network. Connect the antenna and power the
modem. The RSSI LEDs should be on. Three is ideal. Two is acceptable. Only 1 LED lit
indicates that a better antenna arrangement may be required. If no RSSI LEDS light up then
the modem is not receiving data from the modem connected to the controller. Note that the
RSSI LEDs will only light on the “remote modem” if the “controller modem” is connected
and transmitting data, as indicated by the “controller modem’s” green Data-‐In LED flashing.
The Data-‐Out LED should be flashing indicating that the modem is outputting data on the
RS-‐485 network that it is receiving from the controller wirelessly, if it is not then repeat
steps one and two above. If you are using a custom configuration, it is possible that two
modem are not configured properly.
The Data-‐In LED should be flashing indicating that remote device(s) connected to the RS-‐
485 network are responding. If the Data-‐In LED is not flashing then check the RS-‐485
connection to the remote devices. Check the remote device LEDs to see if these devices are
receiving data and responding. Finally check the controller settings to ensure that it is
configured for proper communication even without use of the Wireless RS-‐485 modem.
LED Summary
Indicator
Meaning
Requirement
Green RSSI
LED
The modem is receiving data
from another modem.
Another modem is configured to
communicate with this modem and is (or has
recently) transmitting data.
Green Data
In LED
The controller (Falcon Base
Unit, XT or Syscon) or device
(keypad, mux) is sending
data to the modem.
The controller is properly connected. The
controller and modem have matching baud
rates and stop bits. The modem is properly
configured for RS-‐485 communication.
Yellow Data
Out LED
The modem has received
data and is outputting to the
controller or device
Both modems must be communicating
wirelessly and the transmitting modem must
be transmitting data.
How They Work
The Wireless RS-‐485 modems are designed to be transparent. Neither the controller (XT,
FBU or SYSCON) nor the slave device (keypad, mux or relay board) is aware of their
