UTC Fire and Security Edwards MN-COM1S - User Manual

© 2010 UTC Fire & Security. All rights reserved. 1 / 4 P/N 3101601 • REV 2.0 • ISS 03DEC10
MN-COM1S TCP/IP to RS-232 Interface
Installation Sheet
Description
The MN-COM1S is a TCP/IP to RS-232 interface with one
RJ-45 port and one RS-232 port. It is used to connect a
FireWorks workstation to an EST3 control panel.
The MN-COM1S mounts on an MN-BRKT1 or an MN-BRKT3,
both ordered separately.
Installation
Using the hardware provided, attach the MN-COM1S to the
MN-BRKT1 or MN-BRKT3 mounting bracket as shown in
Figure 1.
Note: Attach the MN-COM1S to the MN-BRKT3 before
attaching the MN-BRKT3 to a back box.
Figure 1: Mounting diagram
1. MN-BRKT1
2. MN-BRKT3
3. MN-COM1S
Wiring
Wire the MN-COM1S as shown in Figure 2 on page 2.
Caution: To avoid damage to the MN-COM1S, make sure that
the power supply provides 24 VDC on the center conductor of
the barrel connector, and common is on the outer connector.

Summary

Description

Installation

Wiring

Configuring the MN-COM1 S

Connecting the equipment

Connect the MN-COM1S to the MN-NETSW1 and apply power.

Assigning a temporary IP address

Assign an unused network IP address and the module's MAC address.

Opening a TCP connection on port 1

Use the TELNET command to open a TCP connection on port 1.

Configuring the MN-COM1 S module

Network Settings Configuration

Set Network Mode to Wired Only and configure IP settings.

Server Configuration

Configure Telnet Password and Retype password.

Advanced Options Configuration

Set ARP Cache Timeout, TCP Keepalive, Monitor Mode, and ports.

Serial Settings Configuration

Configure serial port settings like protocol, baud rate, and parity.

Pack Control Configuration

Configure packing options including Idle Gap Time and Frame Immediate.

Flush Buffer Options

Configure flushing of input and output buffers.

Connection Settings

Set protocol to TCP and configure connection modes.

End Point Configuration

Configure local/remote ports and auto-increment for active connect.

Common Options

Configure Telnet Com Port Cntrl, Terminal Name, and LED.

Disconnect Mode Configuration

Set Hard Disconnect and Inactivity Timeout.

Specifications

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The MN-COM1S is a sophisticated interface module designed to bridge communication between a FireWorks workstation and an EST3 control panel. This device acts as a crucial link in a fire and security system, enabling seamless data exchange between the workstation, which typically provides a graphical user interface for monitoring and control, and the EST3 control panel, which manages the fire alarm system's various components.

Function Description

At its core, the MN-COM1S serves as a TCP/IP to RS-232 converter. This means it can translate data packets from a TCP/IP network, commonly used in modern computer networks, into the RS-232 serial communication protocol, which is often employed by control panels and other industrial equipment. This translation capability is essential for integrating older or specialized serial devices into a contemporary IP-based network infrastructure.

The module features one RJ-45 port, which is the standard connector for Ethernet networks, allowing it to connect to the FireWorks workstation via a network switch like the MN-NETSW1. This port handles the TCP/IP communication. Additionally, it includes one RS-232 port, typically a DB-9 connector, which connects directly to the EST3 control panel. This port facilitates the serial communication required by the control panel.

The primary function of the MN-COM1S is to enable the FireWorks workstation to monitor the status of the EST3 control panel, receive event notifications (such as alarms or troubles), and potentially send commands to the panel. This integration allows for centralized management and visualization of the fire alarm system, enhancing operational efficiency and response times.

Usage Features

The MN-COM1S is designed for straightforward installation and configuration, though it requires a basic understanding of networking principles.

• Mounting: The module is designed to be mounted on either an MN-BRKT1 or an MN-BRKT3 mounting bracket, which are ordered separately. This modular approach allows for flexible installation options, whether in a rack, cabinet, or directly to a back box. The instruction emphasizes attaching the MN-COM1S to the MN-BRKT3 before securing the bracket to a back box, suggesting a specific assembly sequence for ease of installation.

• Connectivity: Wiring the MN-COM1S involves connecting it to a 24VDC power supply, the MN-NETSW1 network switch via the RJ-45 port, and the EST3 control panel via the RS-232 port. The power supply connection is critical, with a specific caution regarding the polarity (24 VDC on the center conductor and common on the outer connector) to prevent damage to the module. All RJ-45 and RS-232 connections are restricted to the same room, within 20 feet, and enclosed in conduit, indicating best practices for cable management and signal integrity in an industrial environment.

• Configuration: The configuration process for the MN-COM1S is performed through its embedded Web page, accessed via a standard web browser like Internet Explorer. This web-based interface provides a user-friendly method for setting up the module's network and serial communication parameters.

  • Temporary IP Assignment: Before accessing the web interface, a temporary IP address needs to be assigned to the MN-COM1S using the ARP -S command in a command prompt. This step requires knowing the module's MAC address, which is typically printed on the device itself. This temporary assignment allows initial communication with the module on the network.

  • TCP Connection: A TELNET connection on port 1 is used to initiate the configuration process. While the system might indicate that it could not open a connection, this is a normal part of the setup, signaling that the module is ready for web-based configuration.

  • Network Settings: Within the web interface, users can configure essential network parameters such as the Network Mode (Wired Only), IP Configuration (IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway), and Ethernet Configuration (Auto Negotiate). These settings ensure the MN-COM1S can communicate effectively within the site's network infrastructure.

  • Server and Serial Settings: The module allows for detailed configuration of server parameters, including Telnet password, ARP cache timeout, TCP keepalive, and HTTP server port. Crucially, the serial settings for Channel 1 can be configured, including disabling/enabling the serial port, setting the protocol (RS232), baud rate (19200), data bits (8), flow control (None), parity (None), and stop bits (1). These serial parameters must match the requirements of the EST3 control panel for proper communication.

  • Pack Control and Buffer Settings: Advanced options like "Enable Packing," "Idle Gap Time," and "Send Frame Immediate" are available for optimizing data transmission. Flush Input/Output Buffer settings allow control over how data buffers are managed during active or passive connections and disconnections.

  • Connection and Disconnect Mode: The module's connection protocol can be set to TCP, and passive connection options like "Accept Incoming" can be configured. Disconnect mode settings, such as "Hard Disconnect" and "Inactivity Timeout," provide control over how connections are terminated.

  • Applying Settings: After all configurations are made, the "Apply Settings" option must be selected to save the changes. Finally, clearing the computer's ARP table with the ARP -D command is recommended to ensure the system recognizes the newly configured MN-COM1S.

Maintenance Features

While the manual primarily focuses on installation and initial configuration, several aspects contribute to the device's maintainability and long-term reliability:

• Robust Design: The requirement for connections to be within 20 feet and enclosed in conduit suggests a design intended for stable operation in potentially challenging environments, minimizing signal degradation and physical damage.

• Web-Based Configuration: The ability to configure the module via a web browser simplifies maintenance and troubleshooting. Technicians can remotely access the device's settings, diagnose issues, and make adjustments without needing specialized tools or direct physical interaction beyond the initial setup. This feature is particularly beneficial for systems deployed in hard-to-reach locations.

• Network Diagnostics: The configuration options for network parameters, such as IP address, subnet mask, and gateway, allow for standard network diagnostic procedures to be applied if communication issues arise. The ability to set TCP keepalive and ARP cache timeout also contributes to network stability and efficient resource management.

• Serial Port Flexibility: The extensive serial port configuration options (baud rate, data bits, parity, flow control) ensure compatibility with a wide range of RS-232 devices, making the MN-COM1S adaptable to different versions or types of EST3 control panels or other serial equipment that might be integrated in the future. This flexibility reduces the need for hardware replacements when system components are upgraded or changed.

• Error Prevention: The explicit caution about power supply polarity highlights a critical design consideration for preventing damage, which is a key aspect of maintenance. Adhering to these guidelines ensures the longevity of the device.

• Documentation: The comprehensive installation sheet itself serves as a vital maintenance tool, providing step-by-step instructions for setup and configuration, which can be referred to during troubleshooting or re-configuration. The emphasis on understanding basic networking principles and consulting IT professionals for IP address lists also points to a structured approach to system maintenance and support.

UTC Fire and Security Edwards MN-COM1S Specifications