-

A Sierra Monitor Company

FieldServer Troubleshooting Guide

APPLICABILITY & EFFECTIVITY

Effective for all systems manufactured after May 1, 2001

Kernel Version: 5.12

Document Revision: 0
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Initial Start-up ...................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1. Delivery Issues .............................................................................................................................. 3
1.2. Power to the FieldServer............................................................................................................... 3
2. FieldServer Utility Problems .............................................................................................................. 3
2.1. Ping cannot locate the FieldServer… ........................................................................................... 3
3. Firmware Recovery Using HyperTerminal........................................................................................ 4
3.1. Connection .................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2. Hyperterminal Configuration ......................................................................................................... 4
3.3. Transferring the good file to the FieldServer................................................................................. 4
3.4. Troubleshooting Hyperterminal downloads................................................................................... 4
4. Connection Issues .............................................................................................................................. 5
4.1. General.......................................................................................................................................... 5
4.2. Ethernet......................................................................................................................................... 5
4.3. RS-232 .......................................................................................................................................... 5
4.3.1. Wiring Verification Techniques for RS-232 Devices ............................................................. 5
4.4. RS-485 .......................................................................................................................................... 5
4.4.1. Wiring Verification Techniques for RS-485 Devices ............................................................. 6
4.5. Adapter cards (X30 and X40 only) ................................................................................................ 6
4.6. Remote device Configuration and Settings................................................................................... 6
5. Configuration Files ............................................................................................................................. 7
5.1. System Overruns .......................................................................................................................... 7
5.2. Could not create cache block........................................................................................................ 7
5.3. Things to consider when troubleshooting….................................................................................. 7
6. Communications Issues..................................................................................................................... 8
6.1. Sys LED indicates problem ........................................................................................................... 8
6.2. Com (Node offline) LED indicates problem................................................................................... 8
6.3. Serial ............................................................................................................................................. 8
6.4. Ethernet......................................................................................................................................... 9
6.4.1. IP addressing and allocation ................................................................................................. 9
6.5. Adapter Card ............................................................................................................................... 10
Appendix A. Calling Tech Support .................................................................................................... 11
Appendix A.1. Use this Manual ............................................................................................................ 11
Appendix A.2. Take a log ..................................................................................................................... 11
Appendix B. General Information ...................................................................................................... 12
Appendix B.1. Rules for File Names on a FieldServer ........................................................................ 12
Appendix B.2. Start a DOS box (DOS session on a windows computer) ............................................ 12
Appendix B.3. Locate a file .................................................................................................................. 13
Appendix C. Glossary ......................................................................................................................... 14

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 3 of 16

1. Initial Start-up

1.1. Delivery Issues

When receiving a FieldServer, the components that were meant to be shipped with the FieldServer
are listed in the related Instruction Manual. If there appears to be something missing, call FieldServer
Technologies 408-262-2299 x104 or 888-509-1970 x104,. The Customer Service Representative
(CSR) will provide assistance.

1.2. Power to the FieldServer

The Power LED should show steady green at all times when the FieldServer is connected. See
Instruction Manual for more information on LED’s. If the LED is not green, check the power source,
power supply and connections.

2. FieldServer Utility Problems

2.1. Ping cannot locate the FieldServer…

Check the following:

Computer connection to the network.

Computer adapter in use is enabled and connected to the FieldServer/network.

Computer has TCP/IP installed – See Section 6.4.1.

Subnet of FieldServer connection -- If the FieldServer can be reached by Ruiping using
broadcasts; it is probably on a different subnet to the computer. See Section 6.4.1.3 for more
information.

Duplicate IP address – If a new computer or networked device has been added to the same
network as the FieldServer this could have resulted in a duplicate IP address.

Different IP address -- Has anyone changed the IP addresses of any of the devices on the
network?

Network topology -- Have any changes been made to the network topology? New routers? New
switches?

Firewall configuration been changed to block ports or IP’s?

Router configuration been changed to block some ports or IP addresses or protocols?

Excessive collisions on the network?

If the computer cannot Ruiping the FieldServer and none of the above reasons apply, contact
FieldServer Technical Support.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 4 of 16

3. Firmware Recovery Using HyperTerminal

There is limited amount file storage space on a FieldServer. If space permits, files are downloaded to a
temporary file until the download is completed successfully. The old file is then removed and the
temporary file renamed. If there is insufficient space, the temporary file method cannot be used and the
firmware may be corrupted if the download is interrupted. If the Run LED is not flashing then the
FieldServer’s firmware or configuration file is invalid and new firmware or configuration must be
downloaded to the FieldServer using the following method.

Baud 115200 (FieldServer

3.1. Connection rate: default)
Connect the PC to the FieldServer as shown Data bits: 8
in the following configuration diagram. Parity: None
Stop bit: 1
Flow None (use Xon/Xoff if
control: having problems)
PC
3.3. Transferring the good file to the
COM1/2
FieldServer

Connect. – Call|Connect
FS8917-02

Remove power from the FieldServer

Navigate through HyperTerminal
Menu - Transfer|Send File

Select the file to be transferred
RJ45 CAT 5 Cable
FS8915-10
(make sure it is named correctly, e.g
config.csv or cb8menu.exe) using
FS-X40 – Connect to P2
FS-X20 – Ensure FS jumper positions are
the Browse button.
configured for RS-232
Ensure that the Protocol is set to
ZMODEM

Click on Send

Reconnect power to the FieldServer

The FieldServer will initiate the
handshake with Hyperterminal on
startup.

Hyperterminal will now send the
selected file to the FieldServer.

Remove and re-apply power to the
FieldServer.

3.4. Troubleshooting Hyperterminal

downloads
• Retry several times.
3.2. Hyperterminal Configuration • Try setting Flow Control to
XON/XOFF.
• Launch Hyperteminal - • File transfer may hang during the
Start|Programs|Accessories|Commu procedure. If the number of bytes
nications|Hyperterminal transferred does not change for a
• Make sure Hyperterminal is couple of minutes, restart from the
disconnected (Call|Disconnect) beginning.
• Go to File|Properties, choose the serial • Modify the FS-8917-02 connector by
com port that will be used (COM1 or bridging pins 3 and 6 (DTR/DSR),
COM2) and select “Configure” and try again. A full list of pin and
• Choose the port parameters as follows: wire connections is provided in the
Instruction Manual.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 5 of 16

4. Connection Issues

4.1. General

Confirm that cables are undamaged and correctly seated, and that the cable type is correct (e.g.:
for Ethernet - cross-over vs. direct)

Check the adapters by transferring the cable between different adapters. If one adapter works,
the problem is likely to be with the other adapter.

Refer to the FieldServer and third party documentation of the signal pinouts to ensure that
connection has been set up correctly

4.2. Ethernet
• If connected to a switch/hub, confirm that it supports 10/100BaseT and that the cable is not
plugged into an uplink port
• Ensure that the link light is showing a good connection.
• For PC’s, ensure that the Ethernet port is installed and active.
• See Section 6.4 for more information.

4.3. RS-232
If connected directly to the PC confirm that the com port in use is activated
4.3.1. Wiring Verification Techniques for RS-232 Devices

4.3.1.1. Multi-Meter Method

If the device serial terminals are not clearly labeled or if the device serial connector is a D-
Type connector then use this method:
• Remove the cable from the device.
• Measure the voltage between pin 2 and the GND pin (pin 5 on 9 pin connectors and pin 7
on 25 pin connectors).
• Measure the voltage between pin 3 and the GND pin
• Between ground and the transmit pin there should be between -12 and -8 volts DC.
Between ground and the receive pin there should be zero volts.
• Check the cables to ensure that the transmit pin on the device is connected to the receive
pin on the FieldServer.
4.3.1.2. Mini-Tester Method1
Insert the mini-tester in line with the RS-232 connection. It may be necessary to use some
gender changers and 9 to 25 pin converters to accomplish this.
If the cable is correctly made up RD and TD will light up solid (red or green). If only one of
them lights up then there is a 90% probability that Tx and Rx are swapped.

4.4. RS-485
• FieldServer Technologies makes use of 2-wire RS-485 on their devices. When using the
FieldServer in 4-wire RS-485 or RS-422 networks, it is recommended that a 2 to 4 wire converter
is used. It is possible to communicate on a four wire network with a 2-wire device without using a
converter, but this should only be attempted if the user understands the implementation well.

1
The following web link has further information on the supplied mini tester-
http://www.bb-elec.com/tech_articles/faq_rs232_connections_work.asp.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 6 of 16

• RS-485 guidelines for maximum cable length stipulate 4000ft. Note that this guideline makes
several assumptions about the quality of the network and power consumption of the devices
present, and it is recommended that extra repeaters are installed if the network in question is
approaching this limit.
• RS485 guidelines stipulate that the network is terminated. Guideline resistance for termination is
120 Ohms. It is entirely plausible, however, that no termination or a different termination
resistance can work better in a given application, and so it is best to experiment when
experiencing poor quality communications.
• RS-485 converters come in different levels of complexity. Simple converters allow for baud rate
and send control to be adjustable, and fix the other parameters to a value that is suitable for most
applications. It is recommended that more complex converters are used only if the simple
converter is not meeting the needs of the network in question.
4.4.1. Wiring Verification Techniques for RS-485 Devices
• Match the “+” and “-“ signals on the two devices. Where devices label their signals A and B,
“A” normally denotes “-“, and “B” “+”
• Connection of the third “signal ground” wire is not always necessary, but is advised.
• When measuring between signal ground and “+” at steady state (i.e.: no communications), a
voltage of between 1.5V and 7V should be present. The same applies to measuring between
signal ground and “-“. If a voltage outside this range is measured, then it may be necessary
to bias the line.
• A line can be biased by putting a 120 Ohm resistor between “+” and “-“, and a 10k Ohm
resistor between signal ground and “+” as well as a 10k Ohm resistor between signal ground
and “-“.
• RS-485 achieves binary transmission by switching the voltage polarity between “+” and “-“, so
if the Rx light is on when there is no communications, there is a good chance that “+” and “-“
are swapped, or that there are some bad voltages on the line. The transceiver could also be
damaged.

4.5. Adapter cards (X30 and X40 only)

Please refer to the driver manual related to the Adapter card in question. Troubleshooting tips can
typically be found in the back of the driver manual.

4.6. Remote device Configuration and Settings

Confirm that all remote devices are powered up and operating normally.

Some devices have a single port which supports more than one protocol - ensure that the
protocol has been correctly configured for use with the FieldServer.

Confirm that all settings on the remote device are correct. Some devices have micro switches
which are used to enable a port or to configure a port in ASCII or hexadecimal format. Some
have menus to set the device address as well as other parameters.

Some devices change their operating setting back to defaults when recycled and the default
setting may not be valid for the configured connection.

A remote device may have been faulty and service personnel may have changed the part out
without setting the communication parameters correctly.

Has someone changed the address of the remote devices?

On an RS-485 network, had a new device been recently added? Does it have a duplicate
address? Is the max node count exceeded? Some systems have additional constraints such as
requiring that the devices be placed on the network so that they are arranged in address order.

Has anyone recently updated the firmware on the remote device?

Is the remote device programmable like a PLC? Has anyone recently changed the logic in the
remote device?

If the remote device sends unsolicited messages such as a fire alarm panel, is this capability still
enabled?

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 7 of 16

5. Configuration Files
• Not all configuration errors can be detected by the FieldServer. For example, it is not possible for the
FieldServer to know that the address used for a remote device is incorrect if that address is a legal
value. If the FieldServer picks up a configuration error, then the error will be logged in the System
Error screen of the Remote User Interface (Ruinet) and the configuration error light will be lit. The
message in the System Error screen will point to the line in the configuration file where the error
exists, and provide some explanation as to the cause of the error.
• When trying to pinpoint a problem in a large configuration file, it is useful to apply the “ignore” and
“process” keywords to isolate the problem area by disabling sections of the configuration at a time
(see FieldServer Configuration Manual).

5.1. System Overruns

System overruns occur as a result of the FieldServer program cycle time exceeding FieldServer
norms. If this message occurs infrequently, it’s nothing to be concerned about. However, if the error
occurs consistently, then it should be reported to FieldServer technical support for resolution.

5.2. Could not create cache block

• Confirm the existence of the virtual node from which client is attempting to poll data
• If the node does not exist, create one.
• If the node exists, but the Map Descriptors for it do not, add a new Map Descriptor.
• Determine the node, address, and length the client is polling, and check to see if they exist in the
configuration.
• If this information is not in the configuration file, or is incorrect, alter the information or add a new
Map Descriptor containing the correct information.
• Consult the Driver Manual

5.3. Things to consider when troubleshooting….

Have firmware or CSV been recently updated? Revert to the older version and see if the problem
persists?

Have any files been recently deleted on the FieldServer?

Have any files been recently downloaded to the FieldServer?

Has any one else changed the firmware or configuration? Does anyone else have access to the
FieldServer?

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 8 of 16

6. Communications Issues

6.1. Sys LED indicates problem

The LED is lit (red) every time that the firmware produces a system error message. To investigate
the problem, connect to the FieldServer using RuiNet and check the ‘E’ (Error) Screen. (Refer to
Utilities Manual). Locate a message that begins with the message “System Error…” Report this
message to FieldServer Technical Support. The problem is not necessarily critical, but can be, and as
such should be reported.

6.2. Com (Node offline) LED indicates problem

During normal operation of the FieldServer this LED should be off. If one or more nodes are offline
then the FieldServer will flash this LED briefly every few seconds. This problem can be investigated
further by browsing the Node Screens using RuiNet.

6.3. Serial
• If communication is unidirectional (i.e: no responses to any queries), review Section 4 of this
manual and ensure the connection is absolutely correct.
• If the FieldServer is communicating with the remote device, but experiencing frequent errors, then
the most probable cause is line quality. Note that an RS-232 connection should not exceed 50
feet, and an RS-485 connection should not exceed 4000 feet.
• If the connection of the line has been checked thoroughly, and problems persist, then take a
serial capture log (See Utilities Manual and Appendix A.2 of this manual) and send it to
FieldServer Technical Support for analysis.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 9 of 16

6.4. Ethernet
If communication is unidirectional (i.e: no responses to any queries), start by reviewing Section 4 of
this manual to make sure the connection is absolutely correct

6.4.1. IP addressing and allocation

6.4.1.1. Install TCP/IP protocol

Select Start|Settings|Network and Dialup Connections

Double Click on Local Area Connection

Select Properties

If TCP/IP is not installed, select “Install”

Select “Protocol” then “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)”

The window closes and the following Dialog displays.

Select “Close” and restart

the computer for the
settings to take effect.

6.4.1.2. Determine the Computer’s IP Address and Netmask

Open a DOS window and change to the Windows (System32) directory.

Type ipconfig<Enter>

Review and note the information on the screen.

6.4.1.3. Determine the Computer’s Subnet

A physical network may be divided into several logical networks called subnets. Sub-netting
is achieved using netmasks. The netmask identifies the portion of the IP address containing
the network ID. The remaining portion conveys the Node/computer ID.
Example:
• IP = 192.168.1.174
• Mask = 255.255.255.0
The netmask indicates that the first three IP values identify the network and the remainder
th
(the 4 value) contains the Node ID. Thus we have the network ID equal to 192.168.1 and
the node or computer ID is 174.
6.4.1.4. Changing the Computer’s IP address

Select Start|Settings|Network and Dialup Connections

Double Click on appropriate Local Area Connection

Select Properties

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
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FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 10 of 16

Select TCP/IP and Properties

Allocate an IP address

An IP address of 192.168.1.102 with netmask 255.255.255.0 will ensure that this
computer is on the same sub-net as the FieldServer with its shipping settings.

Click OK when done.

6.4.1.5. Allocating FieldServer IP Addresses using RuiNet (Preferred

method)2 3
From the main menu in Ruinet, type I. Choose the address to change, change it, and cycle
power to the FieldServer

6.4.1.6. Using Ruiboot

Notes: When Ruiboot is used in this simple mode it does not check for duplicate IP
addresses, therefore a manual check is required.
Ruiboot responds to the first FieldServer to boot. In this basic mode it can only allocate the
IP address to one FieldServer.
• Power down the FieldServer.
• Start Ruiboot
• Cycle power to FieldServer and wait for completion (up to 60s)
• Hit a key to exit Ruiboot.

6.4.1.7. Modify SMCTCP.ini4

This method can only be used to set the IP address of the N1 adapter.
Upload the file SMCTCP.ini modify the file, download the modified file and restart the
FieldServer.
6.4.1.8. Modify fs_tcp.ini 4
Delete the smctcp.ini file for the FieldServer to use the values in the fs_tcp.ini file.
A more recent version of one the firmware files on the FieldServer must be present. The file
name is 8051bp03.exe.

Upload the file FS_TCP.ini, modify the file, download the modified file and restart the
FieldServer.

6.5. Adapter Card

Please refer to the driver manual related to the Adapter card in question. Troubleshooting tips can
typically be found in the back of the driver manual

2
This option is not available in FieldServers purchased before June 2004.
3
If changing the FieldServer’s IP address so that it is part of a different sub-net to the host computer’s
then the user will only be able to connect to the FieldServer (from the host PC) using Ruinet’s broadcast
method. Ruinet can only connect to one FieldServer by broadcast.
4
FieldServers purchased before July 2002

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 11 of 16

Appendix A. Calling Tech Support

Appendix A.1. Use this Manual

Use this manual, the driver manuals and the FieldServer instruction manual to diagnose and correct
the problem. The primary contact with FieldServer technical support will help the user proceed
through many of the procedure and diagnostic steps in this manual.
Appendix A.2. Take a log

For successful troubleshooting, FieldServer Technical Service personnel require a log of the
conditions creating the error or event.

In the case of serial devices, take a serial communications log – Refer to
http://www.fieldserver.com/docs/pdf/ENOTE0058.pdf

For non-serial devices, take a snapshot capture log – refer to
http://www.fieldserver.com/docs/pdf/ENOTE0058.pdf

For ethernet devices a Wireshark capture should be taken, - refer to
http://www.fieldserver.com/docs/pdf/ENOTE0063.pdf.

For information on taking serial logs from a command line prompt, refer to
http://www.fieldserver.com/techsupport/manuals/datasheets/fieldserver_utilities_manual_(t17009)
.pdf

Mail the log with the FieldServer configuration to [email protected].

Call FieldServer Tech Support 408-262-2299 x126. If an SI (Support Incident) number exists
then quote the number to continue with support on an existing incident. If the incident is new a SI
number will be allocated.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 12 of 16

Appendix B. General Information

Appendix B.1. Rules for File Names on a FieldServer

File must be named using DOS’s 8.3 file naming convention
• File name consists of two parts; Prefix and an optional extension separated by a period.
• The prefix may consist of a maximum of 8 characters.
• The extension may consist of a maximum of 3 characters.
• The characters must be one the following set (case independent)
0..9 Α..Ζ α..ζ []−∼_(){}

Appendix B.2. Start a DOS box (DOS session on a windows computer)

1. Check your computer's desktop. If the DOS icon is present, double click on it.

2. Start|Run

Type Command then

push the OK button.

3. Start|Programs|Accessories|Command Prompt

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 13 of 16

Appendix B.3. Locate a file

Using DOS
Assume the file you are trying to locate is called filename.ext
Start a Dos box.
At the prompt type
C: <Enter>
CD\ <Enter>
DIR filename.ext /s <Enter>
Record the results

Using Explorer - Hold down the windows key and push the E key.

1. Click Search

2. Type the name of file you wish

to locate.

3. Click to start the search.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 14 of 16

Appendix C. Glossary
Term Description
An ActiveX control is a component program object that can be re-used by many
application programs within a computer or among computers in a network. The
technology for creating ActiveX controls is part of Microsoft's overall ActiveX set of
technologies, chief of which is the Component Object Model (COM). ActiveX controls
ActiveX can be downloaded as small programs or animations for Web pages, and can also be
used for any commonly-needed task by an application program in the latest Windows
and Macintosh environments. In general, ActiveX controls replace the earlier OCX
(Object Linking and Embedding custom controls). An ActiveX control is roughly
equivalent in concept and implementation to the Java applet.
Browser Software used for browsing the Internet or Intranet e.g. Microsoft Internet Explorer
In Sun Microsystems' JavaBeans component architecture and Microsoft's Component
Object Model (COM), a container is an application program or subsystem in which the
program building block known as a component is run. For example, a component -
Container such as a button or other graphical user interface or a small calculator or database
requestor - can be developed using JavaBeans that can run in Netscape containers
such as browsers and in Microsoft containers such as Internet Explorer, Visual Basic,
and Word.
Download Transfer a file from host computer to a FieldServer.
Downstream A device connected to FieldServer where the FieldServer is the client (sometimes a
Device passive client) in the relationship between the pair. - See Upstream Device.
Consumer See Passive Client
The default filename extension of an ActiveX control. The term OCX is also used as a
OCX
synonym for an ActiveX control.
A driver is termed a passive client driver when it is only capable of listening for
Passive Client unsolicited messages. Most of the FieldServer drivers used to connect to fire alarm
panels are passive client drivers connected via the panel’s printer or auxiliary ports.
A driver designed to generate events or periodic messages but not respond to polls for
Producer
data.
RUI Remote User Interface.
A tier is a virtual FieldServer – a software construction on which the various drivers are
Tier executed. Most applications only use one tier (called “Tier 2” or “Tier B” or “The Pex
Tier”) but some emulations and complex configurations use multiple tier’s.
Upload Transfer a file from a FieldServer to a computer.
A device connected to FieldServer where the FieldServer is the server in the
Upstream
relationship between the pair. The Upstream device polls the FieldServer, which
Device
responds with data to the upstream device. - See Downstream Device.
Networking Terms
10Base2 is the implementation of the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard on thin coaxial
10Base2 cable. Thin Ethernet or thin-net, as it is commonly called, runs at 10Mbps. Stations are
daisy chained and the maximum segment length is 200 meters.
10Base5 is the implementation of the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard on thick coaxial
10Base5 cable. Thick or standard Ethernet, as it is commonly called, runs at 10Mbps. It uses
bus topology and the maximum segment length is 500 meters.
10BaseT - 10BaseT is the implementation of the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard on unshielded
(Standard on twisted-pair wiring. It uses star topology, with stations directly connected to a multi-port
FieldServer) hub. It runs at 10Mbps, and has a maximum segment length of 100 meters.
This IEEE standard governs the Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detection
(CSMA/CD) networks - more commonly called Ethernet. 802.3 networks operate at
802.3
varying speeds and over different cable types. See 10Base2, 10Base5 and 10BaseT.
Examples of leased line services are 56 Kbps or T-1 lines.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
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FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 15 of 16

Term Description
A 2.5 Mbps token-passing star-wired network designed by Datapoint in the 1970s. Its
low cost and high reliability can make it attractive to companies on a tight network
Arcnet budget, although not endorsed by any IEEE committee. ArcnetPlus is a proprietary
product data and peripherals. All connections are made by cable or wireless media. It
typically spans a single building or campus.
A bridge connects two networks of the same access method, e.g., Ethernet to
Ethernet. A bridge works at the OSI’s Media Access Layer, and is transparent to upper-
Bridge layer devices and protocols. Bridges operate by filtering packets according to their
destination addresses. Most bridges automatically learn where these addresses are
located, and thus are called learning bridges.
Ethernet is a 10Mbps, 100 Mbps, or 1000 Mbps CSMA/CD network that runs over thick
coax, thin coax, twisted-pair, and fiber-optic cable. A thick coax Ethernet uses bus
Ethernet topology. A thin coax Ethernet uses daisy chain topology. A fiber Ethernet is point-to-
point. DIX or Blue Book Ethernet is the name of the Digital Equipment Corp., Intel and
Xerox specification; 8802/3 is the ISO’s specification.
In OSI terminology, a gateway is a hardware and soft-ware device that connects two
dissimilar systems such as a LAN and a mainframe. It operates at the fourth through
Gateway
seventh layers of the OSI model. In Internet terminology, a gateway is another name
for a router.
A multiport repeater or hub that brings together the connections from multiple network
Hub nodes. Concentrators have moved past their origins as wire concentrator centers, and
often house bridges, routers, and network-management devices.
Internet IP is part of the TCP/IP suite. It is a session layer protocol that governs packet
Protocol (IP) forwarding.
A transmission line reserved by a communications carrier for the private use of a
Leased line
customer. Examples of leased line services are 56 Kbps or T-1
A group of computers, each equipped with appropriate network adapter cards and
Local area
software that share applications, data and peripherals. All connections are made by
network (LAN)
cable or wireless media.
A connected system of computers, hardware and software over which data, files, and
Network messages can be transmitted and end users communicate. Networks may be local or
wide area.
In open systems, no single manufacturer controls specifications for the architecture.
Open systems The specifications are in the public domain, and developers can legally write to them.
Open systems are crucial for interoperability.
Packet A collection of bits comprising data and control information, sent between nodes
In packet switching, data is segmented into packets and sent across a circuit shared by
Packet multiple subscribers. As the packet travels over the network, switches read the address
switching and route the packet to its proper destination. X.25 and frame relay are examples of
packet-switching services.
A standardized set of rules that specify how a conversation is to take place, including
Protocol
the format, timing, sequencing and/or error checking.
A network layer device connecting networks using the same Network-Layer protocol,
(e.g. TCP/IP or IPX). A standardized protocol, such as RIP is used to move packets
Router
over an internetwork. A router provides greater control over paths and greater security
than a bridge but is more difficult to set up and maintain.
TCP/IP, The protocol suite developed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA),
Transmission almost exclusively used on the Internet and widely used in corporate internetworks,
Control because of its superior design for WANs. TCP governs how packets are sequenced for
Protocol/Intern transmission; IP provides a connectionless datagram service. The term “TCP/IP” is
et Protocol often used to generically refer to the entire suite of related protocols.
Wide area
A WAN consists of multiple LANs that are tied together via telephone devices and/or
network
fiber optic cabling. Span is unlimited.
(WAN)

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]
FieldServer Trouble Shooting guide Page 16 of 16

Term Description
A wireless LAN does not use cable to transmit signals, but rather uses radio or infrared
Wireless LAN to transmit packets through the air. Radio frequency (RF) and infrared are the most
commonly used types of wireless transmission.

FieldServer Technologies 1991 Tarob Court Milpitas, California 95035 USA Web: www.fieldserver.com
Tel: (408) 262 2299 Fax: (408) 262 2269 Toll Free: (888) 509 1970 email: [email protected]