ZKTeco C3 - User Manual

ZK Access Quick Start Guide
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Install C3 using TCP/IP mode of communication
C3 controller supports the connection from panel to server over RS485 data line and also via
nodes on TCP/IP Ethernet networks. This greatly increases the flexibility of installation options.
Note: Make sure the devices are in the same LAN network with server or directly connect to the
server using the TCP/IP communication.
TCP/IP Connection Cable Mode
There are two ways to connect to C3 controller.
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1
Network cable directly connects Management host and the device, without a hub.
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2
In a large office a hub/switch is needed to connect more than 2 devices.
The configuration is as follows:
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TCP/IP Communication
How to add a device into ZKAccess software?
ZKAccess provides two ways to add a device.
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When the IP address of the device is already known, you can quickly add it by entering
the IP address as follow:
Click [Add] on the [Device-Device] interface.

Summary

Install C3 using TCP;IP Mode of Communication

TCP;IP Connection Cable Mode

Explains two methods for connecting C3 controllers via Ethernet cable, with or without network hubs.

How to Add a Device into ZKAccess Software

Guides on adding a device to ZKAccess by entering its IP address.

Using Fast Search Tool to Modify IP Address

Search and Modify IP Address Process

Details steps for finding and updating device IP addresses using ZK's fast search tool.

Overview

The C3 controller is a versatile access control panel designed for robust and flexible security installations. It supports communication with a server through both RS485 data lines and TCP/IP Ethernet networks, offering significant adaptability in deployment. This dual communication capability allows for integration into various network infrastructures, from direct connections to complex office environments utilizing hubs or switches for multiple device connections.

For TCP/IP communication, the C3 controller can be connected in two primary ways. In a simpler setup, a network cable can directly link the management host to the device, eliminating the need for an intermediary hub. This is ideal for smaller installations or direct point-to-point connections. For larger office environments where more than two devices need to be connected, a hub or switch is required to facilitate communication between the management host and multiple C3 controllers. This setup ensures that all devices are part of the same Local Area Network (LAN) as the server, or are directly accessible via TCP/IP.

Adding a C3 controller to the ZKAccess software is a straightforward process, offering two main methods depending on whether the device's IP address is already known. If the IP address is known, users can quickly add the device by navigating to the "Device-Device" interface and clicking "Add." This method requires inputting the device's name, IP address, and optionally, a communication password. The IP Port No. is typically defaulted to 4370 by the system. During this process, users must select the correct type of access control panel. For instance, if it's a Four-Door-One-Way Access Control Panel, an additional option to "Switch to Two-door Two-way" may appear, allowing for configuration based on the specific device. Users also need to assign the device to an "Area" within the software. An important feature during this step is the option to "Clear Data in the Device when Adding." If unchecked, existing data such as time zones and access levels on the device will be preserved, which can be useful for maintaining configurations during re-addition.

Alternatively, if the device's IP address is unknown, the ZKAccess software provides a search function to discover available access control panels on the TCP/IP network. By clicking "Search Access Control Panels" on the "Device-Device" interface and then "Search," the software will list usable devices, displaying their IP addresses, MAC addresses, serial numbers, and device types. From this list, users can select a device and modify its IP address to an available one before adding it to the system. This search functionality is particularly useful in dynamic network environments or when dealing with newly installed devices whose configurations are not yet finalized.

Beyond the ZKAccess software, a dedicated fast search tool is available to simplify the process of finding devices and modifying their IP addresses. This tool is designed to streamline device management, making it quicker and less cumbersome than modifying system settings directly. To use this tool, users can access "Search Panel" from the "Setting" dropdown menu. After a few seconds, the tool will display a list of usable devices, including their IP addresses, serial numbers, device names, and firmware versions. From this list, users can select a device and then choose "Modify IP Address" from the "Setting" dropdown menu to change the device's IP address. This external tool is especially beneficial for bulk IP address modifications or initial setup scenarios where rapid configuration is required.

In terms of usage features, the C3 controller's support for both RS485 and TCP/IP communication offers significant flexibility. RS485 is a reliable serial communication standard often used for robust, long-distance connections in industrial and security applications, while TCP/IP provides the benefits of network integration, allowing for remote management and scalability within existing IT infrastructures. The ability to connect directly to a management host or through a network switch caters to different installation scales and network complexities. The ZKAccess software's intuitive interface for adding and managing devices, coupled with the option to either manually input known IP addresses or automatically discover devices, enhances user convenience. The "Clear Data" option during device addition is a thoughtful feature that allows administrators to control data retention on the device, preventing accidental data loss or ensuring a clean slate for new deployments.

Maintenance features are primarily facilitated through the ZKAccess software and the standalone search tool. The software's ability to display device status, firmware versions, and communication modes provides administrators with essential information for monitoring and troubleshooting. The search tool, by quickly identifying devices and allowing IP address modifications, simplifies network configuration and maintenance tasks. This is particularly useful when devices need to be moved within a network or when IP address conflicts arise. The clear presentation of device details such as MAC addresses, subnet masks, and gateways in the search results further aids in network diagnostics and ensures proper device integration. Regular firmware updates, while not explicitly detailed, would typically be managed through the ZKAccess software, ensuring that devices operate with the latest features and security patches. The overall design emphasizes ease of use for both initial setup and ongoing management, reducing the complexity often associated with access control systems.

ZKTeco C3 Specifications