FMC Technologies Smith Meter microLoad.net

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TCP/IP (Ethernet & SLIP) Communications

Smith Meter™ microLoad.net

Application Manual

Issue/Rev 0.0 (5/06) Bulletin AB06064

Contents

Introduction to TCP/IP Communications and Basic Networking .............................................................. 1

Section I – Connecting via Ethernet.............................................................................................................. 2

Configuring the microLoad.net for Ethernet communications.......................................................................2

Configuring Windows 2000/XP for Ethernet Connection to microLoad.net.................................................. 3

Section II - Configuring a SLIP Connection.................................................................................................. 5

microLoad Settings for SLIP Communications ............................................................................................. 5

PC Settings for SLIP Communications ......................................................................................................... 6

Section III – Using the TCP/IP Link................................................................................................................ 8

Checking the TCP/IP Connection ................................................................................................................. 8

Appendix I – Firmware Upgrade Procedure.................................................................................................. 9

Performing the Firmware Upgrade................................................................................................................ 9

Appendix II – Troubleshooting TCP/IP Communications.......................................................................... 11

Troubleshooting an Ethernet connection .................................................................................................... 11

Troubleshooting a SLIP connection............................................................................................................ 11

Troubleshooting the Firmware Upgrade process........................................................................................ 12

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Summary

Introduction to TCP;IP Communications and Basic Networking

Section I - Connecting via Ethernet

Configuring the microLoad.net for Ethernet Communications

Configure microLoad.net network settings: IP Address, Net mask, Gateway, Ethernet Control, Com Link.

Configuring Windows 2000;XP for Ethernet Connection to microLoad.net

Configure Windows PC settings for Ethernet connection to microLoad.net, including network interface card and cable requirements.

Section II - Configuring a SLIP Connection

Configuring SLIP Communications

Configure SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) for TCP/IP communications over serial ports.

microLoad.net Settings for SLIP Communications

Set microLoad.net parameters for SLIP: Function, Baud, Data Parity, Timeout, Mode, and Host Interface.

PC Settings for SLIP Communications

Configure Windows PC network settings for SLIP connection using the New Connection Wizard and microLoad SLIP Properties.

Section III - Using the TCP;IP Link

Checking the TCP;IP Connection

Verify TCP/IP connection using microMate software, checking status bar for 'ONLINE' or 'Read Only'.

Appendix I - Firmware Upgrade Procedure

Performing the Firmware Upgrade

Steps to perform firmware upgrade: select upgrade, provide access code, download image, and restart unit.

Appendix II - Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting an Ethernet Connection

Troubleshoot Ethernet issues using LED indicators and PING utility.

Troubleshooting a SLIP Connection

Troubleshoot SLIP connections using Comm Monitor Diagnostic and client/server handshake.

Troubleshooting the Firmware Upgrade Process

Resolve issues with locating or applying firmware images, including forced boot loader entry.

Summary

Introduction to TCP;IP Communications and Basic Networking

Section I - Connecting via Ethernet

Configuring the microLoad.net for Ethernet Communications

Configure microLoad.net network settings: IP Address, Net mask, Gateway, Ethernet Control, Com Link.

Configuring Windows 2000;XP for Ethernet Connection to microLoad.net

Configure Windows PC settings for Ethernet connection to microLoad.net, including network interface card and cable requirements.

Section II - Configuring a SLIP Connection

Configuring SLIP Communications

Configure SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) for TCP/IP communications over serial ports.

microLoad.net Settings for SLIP Communications

Set microLoad.net parameters for SLIP: Function, Baud, Data Parity, Timeout, Mode, and Host Interface.

PC Settings for SLIP Communications

Configure Windows PC network settings for SLIP connection using the New Connection Wizard and microLoad SLIP Properties.

Section III - Using the TCP;IP Link

Checking the TCP;IP Connection

Verify TCP/IP connection using microMate software, checking status bar for 'ONLINE' or 'Read Only'.

Appendix I - Firmware Upgrade Procedure

Performing the Firmware Upgrade

Steps to perform firmware upgrade: select upgrade, provide access code, download image, and restart unit.

Appendix II - Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting an Ethernet Connection

Troubleshoot Ethernet issues using LED indicators and PING utility.

Troubleshooting a SLIP Connection

Troubleshoot SLIP connections using Comm Monitor Diagnostic and client/server handshake.

Troubleshooting the Firmware Upgrade Process

Resolve issues with locating or applying firmware images, including forced boot loader entry.

The Smith Meter™ microLoad.net is a sophisticated device designed for TCP/IP (Ethernet & SLIP) communications, primarily used in metering systems. This application manual provides comprehensive guidance on its configuration, operation, and maintenance, focusing on its networking capabilities and firmware upgrade procedures.

Function Description

The microLoad.net serves as a critical component in metering systems, enabling communication via both Ethernet and Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP). Its core function is to facilitate reliable data exchange within a network, allowing for remote monitoring, control, and data acquisition from metering points. The device supports the widely accepted TCP/IP protocol, which is fundamental for Internet and World Wide Web communications, ensuring compatibility with various network infrastructures.

For Ethernet connectivity, the microLoad.net is equipped with an Ethernet port (CAT-5 connector) and a unique MAC Address assigned by the manufacturer. It operates with an IP Address, a four-byte number that uniquely identifies it within a network, and utilizes a Net Mask to define the network address. The device can be configured with a Gateway address to direct outgoing messages to other networks, enabling communication with routers, hubs, and switches. The Ethernet connection can be set for "Poll and Program" control, allowing both data polling and programming access.

Alternatively, for situations where Ethernet is not feasible due to distance or availability, the microLoad.net supports TCP/IP communications over one of its serial ports via SLIP. This point-to-point protocol allows for serial data transmission, making it suitable for direct connections between the microLoad.net and a PC. When configured for SLIP, the serial port functions are set with specific baud rates, data parity, timeout values, and mode (RS232). It's important to note that configuring a SLIP connection will disable the Ethernet connection, and SLIP is not intended for multi-dropped serial networks, although it can be used for special features like firmware upgrades in such environments if other devices on the line have their serial port functionality disabled.

The microLoad.net integrates with the microMate software, which is a key tool for managing and interacting with the device. This software allows users to read and write program codes, utilize a Terminal Emulator to send commands, access transaction and event logs, and upload special features such as user-configured reports, displays, translations, and equations. Additionally, the device features a simple Web interface accessible via a browser, and built-in FTP support for firmware upgrades, configuration item transfers, and custom HTML page additions.

Usage Features

The microLoad.net is designed for ease of configuration and operation within a metering system.

Ethernet Configuration: Users can configure the device's IP Address, Net Mask, and Gateway through its Host Interface Menu. The Ethernet Control can be set to "Poll and Program" for comprehensive interaction, and the Com Link level can be adjusted. It is recommended to install the microLoad.net to a private network, often by adding a second network interface card to a PC, creating a "bridge" to the corporate LAN while preventing interference from corporate network traffic.
SLIP Configuration: For serial connections, the microLoad.net's serial communication ports can be configured for SLIP (TCP/IP) function. This involves setting parameters like Function (SLIP), Baud rate, Data Parity, Timeout, and Mode (RS232) in the Comm. Port Config menu. The Host Interface Menu also requires setting the IP Address, Network, Gateway, Ethernet Control, and Com Link for SLIP.
PC Connectivity: The manual provides detailed steps for configuring Windows 2000/XP for both Ethernet and SLIP connections. For Ethernet, this involves setting up a Local Area Connection with a static IP address on the same network as the microLoad.net. For SLIP, the New Connection Wizard in Windows guides users through creating a dial-up connection, configuring the serial port settings (baud rate, flow control), and specifying an IP address for the PC that is on the same subnet as the microLoad.net but different from its IP address.
microMate Software Integration: The microMate software is central to using the microLoad.net. After installation, users can connect to the device by entering its IP address and selecting TCP/IP as the port type. A successful connection is indicated by an "ONLINE" status in the microMate window. The software facilitates various tasks, including program code management, terminal emulation for sending commands, and accessing logs and custom features.
Web Interface and FTP Support: The device offers a basic Web interface for quick access and monitoring, and its FTP support enables advanced users to manage files, perform firmware upgrades, and customize the device's functionality.

Maintenance Features

The microLoad.net incorporates several features to aid in troubleshooting and maintenance, ensuring reliable operation and facilitating upgrades.

Firmware Upgrade Procedure: The device features flash EEPROM-based non-volatile memory, allowing for firmware upgrades without physical component replacement. The microMate application is used to perform these upgrades, which involve downloading the latest firmware image from FMC Technologies servers or manually placing the ULOAD.BIN file in the application directory. The process includes validation of the firmware image, entering an access code for security, and a download sequence that erases existing memory and installs the new firmware. It is crucial to save all configuration data before initiating an upgrade.
Troubleshooting Ethernet Connection:
- LED Indicators: The Ethernet port's green Link LED provides a simple visual cue for physical connection status. A lit LED indicates a proper physical connection, while a blinking yellow LED signifies network traffic. Troubleshooting involves checking cable type (standard vs. crossover), ensuring plugs are fully inserted, and verifying device port functionality.
- PING Utility: The PING utility in Windows (accessed via Command Prompt) allows users to send ICMP messages to the microLoad.net's IP address to check for connectivity. A successful PING indicates a working connection, while a timeout suggests a communication issue.
- Packet Sniffer Utility: For advanced diagnostics, a packet sniffer like Ethereal can be used to display network traffic, including MAC addresses and IP packet data, helping to identify communication problems at a lower level.
Troubleshooting SLIP Connection:
- Comm Monitor Diagnostic: The microLoad.net has a built-in Comm Monitor diagnostic accessible from the Main Menu. This tool displays traffic on the serial communication ports, allowing users to verify if data is being received from the PC and if the device is responding. It offers features to freeze the display, scroll through data, and toggle between ASCII and hex mode views.
- CLIENT/CLIENTSERVER Handshake: When establishing a SLIP connection, Windows performs a non-standard handshake, sending "CLIENT" and expecting "CLIENTSERVER" in response. The Comm Monitor can be used to observe this handshake. Repeated "CLIENT" messages without a "CLIENTSERVER" response may indicate incorrect IP addresses or other configuration issues.
- PC Serial Port Settings: Mismatched baud rate or parity settings can cause illegible data. Users can verify and modify PC serial port settings using the MODE COM1: command in the Command Prompt, ensuring they match the microLoad.net's configuration.
Troubleshooting Firmware Upgrade Process:
- Locating Firmware Image: The microMate application attempts to retrieve the latest firmware image from the Internet. If this fails, the image can be manually placed in the application directory.
- Forcing Boot Loader Mode: If the microLoad.net fails to enter the "Waiting for Firmware Upgrade" state remotely, it can be manually forced into boot loader/RAM executive mode by removing the cover, moving a specific DIP switch (S2-2) to the ON position, and then power cycling the device. This allows for installing older firmware revisions or recovering from failed upgrades.

The microLoad.net is a robust and versatile device, designed with both operational efficiency and maintainability in mind, making it a reliable solution for various metering applications.