PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
System communications
SKF Multilog On-line System IMx-8/IMx-8Plus
User Manual
Revision E
11 (63)
1.3 System communications
The communications setup or mode determines how the IMx will communicate with
the wider system. There are 3 alternative arrangements that can be used:
•
Server initiated
–
@ptitude Observer initiated communication
•
Client-Server
–
the IMx is the initiator of the communication
•
Stand-alone
–
no connection to @ptitude Observer
Whilst the first two are alternatives for @ptitude Observer/IMx communication,
illustrated diagrammatically in Figures 1 and 2
,
the stand-alone option refers to
operating the IMx independent of @ptitude Observer software and instead using the
companion app, to interact with it. For stand-alone mode, refer also
Whilst the different network possibilities (
to
connection methods, there are limitations on the permissible combinations of
communication mode and network connection method:
1. Server initiated, requires a server installed on a local network (with RJ45 or, if
applicable, Wi-Fi connection).
2. Mobile data connectivity, whether implemented within the IMx-8Plus or
external to an IMx-8, is only supported in Client-Server mode (device-initiated
communications).
The choice between using a mobile data connection or a LAN connection (RJ45 or
Wi-Fi), is part of the IMx-8Plus configuration.
1.3.1 Mobile data
In the IMx-8Plus, a built-in module provides a mobile data connection. It can work
world-wide and provides connectivity to @ptitude Observer software. Mobile data
functionality requires an activated SIM card or eSIM. An external antenna is required
(
); two LTE connectors are provided.
1.3.2 Local network RJ45 or Wi-Fi module
In the IMx-8Plus, a built-in Wi-Fi module provides a Wi-Fi communication interface
(2.4 GHz) so that, where available, that can be used as the first stage of connectivity
to @ptitude Observer software, rather than a hard-wired LAN (RJ45) or the mobile
network. Similarly to mobile data, an external antenna is required for Wi-Fi, the
optional antenna offered by SKF (
) fulfils both roles.
An RJ45 Ethernet connection is the only network interface built-in to an IMx-8.
