ATX Flexnet Series Owner's manual

FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches
Installation & Operation Manual
X

Although every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of this document it may be necessary, without notice, to make amendments or correct omissions.
Specications subject to change without notice.

FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1. SYSTEM OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................................ 1-1
1.1. System Features ............................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2. User Permission Feature................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.3. Access Control Feature..................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.4. System Upgrades.............................................................................................................................. 1-1
1.5. Modules............................................................................................................................................. 1-1
2. CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS ............................................................................................................. 2-1
2.1. AC Connections................................................................................................................................. 2-1
2.2. RF Signals......................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3. Control Ports...................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.4. MPC 128 Control In Port Connection ................................................................................................ 2-2
2.5. Ethernet Port ..................................................................................................................................... 2-3
2.6. Ethernet Command Protocol ............................................................................................................. 2-3
3. FRONT PANEL BASICS ........................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1. Front Panel Interface......................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.2. Main Menu......................................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.3. Front Panel Hierarchy & Page References ....................................................................................... 3-1
4. INITIALIZING SYSTEM FROM THE KEYPAD.......................................................................................... 4-1
4.1. Communications Setup ..................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2. Serial Interface Menu ........................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.3. Ethernet Conguration Menu............................................................................................................. 4-3
4.4. DHCP On/Off..................................................................................................................................... 4-3
4.5. COMM Port/Password Menu............................................................................................................. 4-4
5. CROSSPOINT CONNECTIONS................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.1. Monitor a Connection ........................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.2. Changing a Connection..................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3. Locking & Unlocking Connections..................................................................................................... 5-1
6. RS-485 ....................................................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.1. Why an RS-485 Section? .................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2. RS-485 Basics................................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.3. Which Ports are RS-485.................................................................................................................... 6-2
6.4. Summary ........................................................................................................................................... 6-2
6.5. Front Panel RS-485 Termination ....................................................................................................... 6-2
7. FACTORY CONFIGURATION SETTINGS ................................................................................................ 7-1
7.1. System Options Menu ....................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.2. Conguration Menu ........................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.3. Factory Settings Code Number ......................................................................................................... 7-2
7.4. System Setup Menu .......................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.5. Matrix Size......................................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.6. Model................................................................................................................................................. 7-3
7.7. Load Firmware................................................................................................................................... 7-4
7.8. Exiting Download Mode..................................................................................................................... 7-5
7.9. Firmware Upgrade Kit........................................................................................................................ 7-5
7.10. Firmware Download Instructions ....................................................................................................... 7-5
7.11. Firmware Download Preparation....................................................................................................... 7-5
7.12. Ethernet or Serial Port Download?.................................................................................................... 7-5
7.13. Why Download Firmware? ................................................................................................................ 7-5
7.14. Why Is Downloading Failing? ............................................................................................................ 7-5
7.15. Features Menu .................................................................................................................................. 7-7
7.16. Set Control Mode............................................................................................................................... 7-7
7.17. Options Menu .................................................................................................................................... 7-7

ii FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual
7.18. SNMP Menu ...................................................................................................................................... 7-8
7.19. Port Access Control Enable/Disable.................................................................................................. 7-9
8. ACCESS CONTROL.................................................................................................................................. 8-1
8.1. Access Control Overview .................................................................................................................. 8-1
8.2. System Access .................................................................................................................................. 8-1
8.3. Port Access Control Enable/Disable.................................................................................................. 8-1
8.4. Access Control Menu ........................................................................................................................ 8-2
8.5. Keypad Access Control ..................................................................................................................... 8-2
8.6. Logging In & Logging Out.................................................................................................................. 8-3
8.7. User Accounts ................................................................................................................................... 8-4
8.8. Access Control Setup Menu.............................................................................................................. 8-4
8.9. Dening User Names & Passwords .................................................................................................. 8-4
8.10. Dening Group Output Permissions.................................................................................................. 8-5
8.11. Factory Defaults for Access Control .................................................................................................. 8-6
8.12. Admin Account................................................................................................................................... 8-6
9. SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 9-1
9.1. Specications .................................................................................................................................... 9-1
10. SERVICE & SUPPORT............................................................................................................................ 10-1
10.1. Contact ATX Networks..................................................................................................................... 10-1
10.2. Warranty Information ....................................................................................................................... 10-1
11. APPENDIX ............................................................................................................................................... 11-1
11.1. General Problems............................................................................................................................ 11-1
11.2. Front Panel LEDs ............................................................................................................................ 11-1
11.3. Problems with Crosspoint Connections........................................................................................... 11-2
11.4. Serial Port Problems........................................................................................................................ 11-2
11.5. Ethernet Problems........................................................................................................................... 11-3

FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual 1-1
CHAPTER 1: SYSTEM OVERVIEW
SYSTEM OVERVIEW
1. System Overview
Thank you for purchasing an FNER Expandable Routing Switch. FLEXNET’s FNER series switches are based on the same
technology as our popular FNEM Series Modular Programmable RF Switches. They were developed to address the increasing
need for expandable RF switching in telecommunication network signal processing centers and are equally suitable for audio/
video, baseband, data, IF, and RF switching requirements.
The FNER is perfect for centralized test and measurement applications in networks that are monitoring large numbers of RF
signals. Each FNER system is compatible with most monitoring and control systems and can be expanded in 16x1 modules
up to a maximum capacity of 128x1. Control of the FNER occurs from a front panel keypad or remotely via computer (serial
or TCP/IP). The excellent RF performance of the FNER is achieved through proprietary technology.
Each system is supplied with a control unit. From this unit, an operator may make RF signal routing changes or check to see
the input currently dened. The control unit is also supplied with serial (RS-232 and RS-422/485) and Ethernet (10BaseT
TCP/IP) control ports to allow remote control of the FNER system.
This operating manual attempts to familiarize you with the different capabilities and features of FNER systems.
1.1 System Features
FLEXNET systems are equipped with many standard features that make the system highly congurable for our customers.
1.2 User Permission Feature
The FNER system features user permissions. This is congured by setting up user accounts with names, passwords, and
permissions. These accounts set limits to what system setting users can change. After an account is set up by the administrator,
the user logs into the system and the settings in their account determine if they can change the output or not.
The primary benet of our access control feature is users are protected from the unintentional or accidental RF connection
change. This system is much more robust in a larger system with multiple inputs and outputs, but access control for an FNER
still gives the option to require login before the output can be changed.
1.3 Access Control Feature
The FLEXNET matrix system also features access control. The control module in our system has four ports of access that are
available for user interface. These are a front panel keypad, Ethernet port, Telnet port, and a Control In port. Users can control
the system from any one of these access ports.
Access control can be turned on or off for each one of these ports. This feature enables or disables the login requirements
before a user may make a change to the output.
If access control is enabled for a port, the user must rst log in with a user name and password before any changes can be
made. With different access control settings, a user could change the connections from a serial port but be required to log in
with permissions from the keypad or the Ethernet port.
1.4 System Upgrades
You can even upgrade your system later to increase the number of inputs available to you. Each FNER system can be
congured for up to 128 inputs. Contact us at ATX Networks and we can help you with your growing communication needs.
1.5 Modules
Two types of modules comprise an FNER system: an MCP 128 (8x1) controller and a 16x1 switching module. Every FNER
system consists of one MPC 128 and 1 or more switching modules. A minimal FNER switching system consists of a single
MPC 128 and one switching module.
1.5.1 MPC 128
The MCP 128 provides master control capability via the front panel keypad/LCD display or computer interface (serial or TCP/
IP). The unit receives commands from the keypad or computer and controls the individual switching modules. From this unit,
an operator can make routing changes or check to see the path currently congured.

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CHAPTER 1: SYSTEM OVERVIEW
Figure 1: MCP 128 (8x1) Controller
1.5.2 FNER Switching Module
The FNER Switching Module is a 16x1 unit that utilizes solid state switching elements to provide seamless switching speeds
(nanoseconds). Up to eight switching modules may be combined in a single FNER system. The total number of switching
modules required for a system is equal to the total number of system inputs divided by 16. Every switching module is
equipped with two inter-module serial ports (“CONTROL-IN” and “CONTROL-OUT”) that are used for communication with
other FNER modules.
Figure 2: 16x1 Switching Module

FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual 2-1
CHAPTER 2: CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
2. Connections & Protocols
2.1 AC Connections
All AC power cords are included with your system when it is shipped. If using an AC power cord that is not FLEXNET, make
sure it is shielded and has a grounding plug. FLEXNET uses these power cords because they help isolate AC noise from the
RF signals.
2.1.1 Voltages
Our internal power supplies are auto-ranging. This means that you can connect an acceptable range AC source to the unit
and it will automatically accommodate the new source voltage. The power supplies can operate from 85VAC to 265VAC at
47Hz to 63Hz.
Both module types have a +5 and –5 Volt supplies. Each supply will have one LED per power supply on the front panel to
indicate the staus of the power suplpy. Each of these LED’s is labeled to indicate which volage supply the LED is a monitor
for. This allows you to detect any failures and service them quickly. If any of the LED’s are extinguished and the power switch
is on, consult the troubleshooting guide immediately.
2.2 RF Signals
2.2.1 RF Testing
Every FNER module is fully tested. Each module is checked and rechecked for signal integrity every crosspoint is tested to
guarantee proper system operation at the factory.
2.2.2 RF Connections
All RF connections are made by connecting source(s) to the input(s) and destination(s) to the output(s). When connecting,
be sure that the pin at the center of the RF connector is properly inserted into the F connector on the units. A bent pin will
not pass the RF signal correctly.
NOTE: All inputs and outputs are DC blocked. You cannot send power through the FNER to
power other devices.
2.3 Control Ports
Modules “talk” to each other through cables connected to the control ports on the rear panels of the modules. These
connections are made at system set up, and in most cases never need to be changed.
2.3.1 Control Ports Connectors
There are two DB9 type connectors on each module. The Control In and Control Out ports are always DB9 type female
connectors.
The pin numbering is the same for the connectors as well. Looking at the rear panel, pin 1 is at the top left, pin 5 is at the
bottom left, pin 6 is at the top right, and pin 9 is at the bottom right.
The control ports of the FNER 16x1 Switching modules and the control out port of the MPC 128 are only for FLEXNET
communications. See the appendix for wiriring instructions.
The control in port of the MCP 128 is user congurable and is used for serial data control of the system. The pin denitions
are listed in the table below.
Pin Control In - RS 232 mode Control In - RS 422/485 mode
1GND GND
2 TXD
(transmit data)
Not used

2-2 FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual
CHAPTER 2: CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
3 RXD
(receive data)
Non-inverting Transmit
4 DTR
(data terminal ready)
Non-inverting Receive
5GND
(signal gound)
GND
6 DSR
(data set ready)
Inverting Transmit
7 CTS
(clear to send)
Not used
8RTS
(request to send)
Not used
9 Not used Inverting Receive
Table 1: 8x1 Control Module Control In Port Pin Denitions
2.4 MPC 128 Control In Port Connection
If you are using a computer to control the FNER, you can use a direct serial connection to the Control In port. For serial control,
connect a serial cable (RS-232 or RS-422/485) from the computer to the 9-pin SERIAL port on the rear panel of the MPC 128.
The connector is shared for both RS-232 and RS-422/485. Do NOT use a NULL MODEM adapter or crossover cable. Use a
straight through 1 to 1 cable.
2.4.1 MPC 128 Control In Serial Communication Settings
The serial port parameters are the same whether you are using RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485. The parameters are xed at 9600
baud, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit (8N1). The command protocol for controlling the switch is provided in the appendix.
2.4.2 MPC 128 Control In RS-232 Description
RS-232 was designed for communication of local devices, and supports one transmitter and one receiver. This standard
uses single ended signals over unbalanced, unterminated wires. Single ended means the signal is sent over one wire with
respect to a single ground source. Unterminated means the signal lines do not have impedance matching at the line ends. This
interface is useful for point-to-point communication at slow speeds and over short lengths of cable. Most PCs come equipped
with one or more RS-232 serial ports.
2.4.3 RS-232 Advantages/Disadvantages
RS-232 is easy to implement and has been standardized and accepted for years. Due to the nature of RS-232, the signals are
susceptible to noise and grounding problems. These problems set a limit to cable lengths. Quintech recommends if using RS-
232 that the cable length be limited to 20 meters or approximately 60 feet. RS-232 is also only point-to-point communications
so only two devices will typically communicate with each other over the RS-232 standard.
2.4.4 MPC 128 Control In RS-422 Description
In RS-422 communications, a pair of twisted wires is used to carry a signal. The data is encoded and decoded as a differential
voltage between the two lines. As a differential voltage, in principle the interface is unaffected by differences in ground voltage
between sender and receiver. For more details on differential signaling, refer to the “RS-485” section of this document.
2.4.5 RS-422 Advantages/Disadvantages
RS-422 differential signals over twisted pair wires are less affected by noise. They therefore can communicate at faster rates
and over longer distances. RS-422 is better than RS-232 but it still is limited to one master and up to ten receivers on the bus.
Recommended maximum length is 4000 feet. The FLEXNET RS-422 standard is limited to 10 receivers.
2.4.6 MPC 128 Control In RS-485 Description
The MPC 128 can be congured to communicate in RS-485 standard. For all RS-485 information, refer to the “RS-485” section
of this document.
2.4.7 All Control Port Connections except MPC Control In
Before powering up the units, make sure all of the control cables are properly installed. All FNER modules should be daisy-
chained together, with the MPC 128 unit occupying the rst position in the chain. Connect the CONTROL OUT port of the
MPC 128 to the CONTROL IN port of the rst 16x1 module in the chain. The CONTROL OUT port of that module connects to
the CONTROL IN port of the next 16x1 module, etc. The last module in the chain will have an unused 9-pin connector labeled
CONTROL OUT.

FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual 2-3
CHAPTER 2: CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
Note that the maximum control cable length that can exist between FNER modules is 6 feet. Refer to the appendix for proper
control port conections.
2.5 Ethernet Port
The MPC 128 has the ability to communicate over Ethernet. The system has a 10BaseT or 100BaseT Ethernet port
depending on options ordered. The Ethernet port supports a Telnet interface, TCP/IP and SNMP. All commands are sent to
the congured IP address and port. The command protocol for controlling the switch is provided in Appendix D.
2.5.1 Ethernet Connections
For Ethernet connections, connect the MPC 128 to a network port or router via the Ethernet port using a standard cable.
You can also connect directly to the computer’s network port, but this requires a crossover cable. Standard and crossover
Ethernet cable pinouts are provided in Table 2: Ethernet Cable Pinout.
2.5.2 Ethernet Cable Pinout
Crossover Cable Standard Cable
RJ-45 RJ-45 RJ-45 RJ-45
Pin 1 Tx + Pin 3 Rx + Pin 1 Tx + Pin 1 Rx +
Pin 2 Tx - Pin 6 Rx - Pin 2 Tx - Pin 2 Rx -
Pin 3 Rx + Pin 1 Tx + Pin 3 Rx + Pin 3 Tx +
Pin 6 Rx - Pin 2 Tx - Pin 6 Rx - Pin 6 Tx -
Table 2: Ethernet Cable Pinout
2.6 Ethernet Command Protocol
2.6.1 TCP/IP
The same command protocol is used for control over Ethernet TCP/IP and the serial port. Since the same command formats
are used, the command packet will contain a serial address. This address must match the serial address of the MPC 128 or
the packet will be rejected, even though the address is unnecessary when the command is sent over TCP/IP. To avoid any
problems, commands sent over TCP/IP should use the broadcast address “FF” hexadecimal.
2.6.2 Telnet
A Telnet console window is also provided for conguring and controlling the matrix. A command mode is provided where the
same protocol commands can be issued but no serial address or packet headers are required. See Appendix D for more
information.
2.6.3 SNMP
SNMP or Simple Network Management Protocol is now implemented on all MPC 128s. It is part of the Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocol suite. The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an application layer
protocol that facilitates the exchange of management information between network devices.
SNMP works by sending messages, called protocol data units (PDUs), to different parts of a network. SNMP-compliant
devices, called agents, store data about themselves in Management Information Bases and return this data to the SNMP
requesters.
To use the protocol it has to be turned on from the front keypad rst. Refer to “SNMP” section.

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CHAPTER 2: CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
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