Multitech RoteFinder RF500S User manual

Model RF500S
DSL/Cable Router
with Built-in 4-port 10/100 Switch
User Guide

UserGuide
DSL/CableRouter
withBuilt-in4-port10/100Switch
P/NS0000093RevisionA
This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior expressed written permission
from Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2000 by Multi Tech Systems, Inc.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. makes no representations or warranties with respect to the content hereof and
specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
Furthermore, Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes
from time to time in the content hereof without obligation of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. to notify any person
or organization of such revisions or changes.
Record of Revisions
Revision Description
A
(8/21/2000) Manual Released at Software Version 7.1
Patents
This product is covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patent Numbers: 5.301.274; 5.309.562;
5.355.365; 5.452.289; 5.453.986. Other patents pending.
TRADEMARKS
Trademark of Multi-Tech Systems, is the Multi-Tech logo. Windows, Windows 95, 98, NT and 2000
are trademarks of Microsoft. All other trademarks are owned by their respective companies.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
2205 Woodale Drive
Mounds View, Minnesota 55112 U.S.A.
[phone] or [phone]
U. S. FAX [phone]
Technical Support [phone]
Internet Address: http://www.multitech.com

iii
Contents
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 7
FrontPanel ................................................................................................................................................. 8
FrontPanelDescription......................................................................................................................... 8
Back Panel ................................................................................................................................................. 8
BackPanel Description ........................................................................................................................ 8
TypicalApplications .................................................................................................................................... 9
Connecting a Remote Site via Cable Modem ....................................................................................... 9
Connecting a Local Site by Segmenting the LAN ................................................................................10
Connecting a Local Site to the Internet ...............................................................................................11
Specifications ............................................................................................................................................12
Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation
HardwareInstallation .................................................................................................................................14
Safety..................................................................................................................................................14
UnpackingtheRF500S........................................................................................................................14
Cabling ................................................................................................................................................15
Chapter 3 - Software Installation
and Configuration
SoftwareInstallationandConfiguration......................................................................................................17
SoftwareInstallation............................................................................................................................17
UsingRouteFinderSetupWizard ...............................................................................................................18
TestingyourConnection ......................................................................................................................30
Chapter 4 - Telnet
UsingTelnettoConfigureyourRouteFinder ...............................................................................................32
Chapter 5 - RouteFinder Manager
RouteFinderManager.................................................................................................................................39
General Settings ........................................................................................................................................40
WANEthernetSegment ......................................................................................................................41
Async Port ..........................................................................................................................................42
Remote Access - Remote Access Settings ........................................................................................46
Enable IP Mapping - Virtual Server .....................................................................................................47
Port Settings..............................................................................................................................................48
Edit Login Script for Remote Access ..................................................................................................49
Writing a login script for IP Routing .....................................................................................................50
ModemString Settings........................................................................................................................52
LANDHCPServer .....................................................................................................................................53
RoutingSettings ........................................................................................................................................55
RoutingTable.......................................................................................................................................56
Filter Settings ............................................................................................................................................57
Refresh Device List ...................................................................................................................................61
DeviceNameandPassword ......................................................................................................................62
Save Settings to File .................................................................................................................................63
LoadSettings ............................................................................................................................................64
UpgradeFirmware......................................................................................................................................65
GeneralDiagnostic ....................................................................................................................................66

Chapter 6 - RouteFinder Monitor
RouteFinderMonitor...................................................................................................................................68
RunningRouteFinderMonitor ..............................................................................................................68
Refresh Device List ...................................................................................................................................69
TestConnection .........................................................................................................................................70
TerminateConnection ................................................................................................................................71
Save to File ...............................................................................................................................................72
Save Now ............................................................................................................................................72
Autosave .............................................................................................................................................72
IPAddress/Name ......................................................................................................................................73
Event Messages........................................................................................................................................74
TCP/IPTab ................................................................................................................................................75
TimeTab ....................................................................................................................................................76
StatusTab..................................................................................................................................................77
Statistics Tab .............................................................................................................................................78
Chapter 7 - LAN Client Settings
LAN Client Settings ...................................................................................................................................80
Setting up Remote Access Clients ............................................................................................................81
Accessing a Windows NT Server ........................................................................................................81
Accessing a Novell Server ..................................................................................................................88
Accessing aWindows NTServer and a NovellNetWare Server ..........................................................94
Accessing a Unix Server...................................................................................................................103
MakeNewConnection(Windows2000 only) .....................................................................................107
Chapter 8 - LAN -to- LAN Settings
LAN -to- LAN Settings .............................................................................................................................109
Setting up LAN -to- LAN Routing .......................................................................................................109
Usingthe Find Computer command ..................................................................................................110
UsingLMHosts..................................................................................................................................111
Chapter 9 - Troubleshooting.....................................................................112
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................113
CommonProblems............................................................................................................................113
Chapter 10 - Service, Warranty
and Technical Support
Introduction..............................................................................................................................................117
LimitedWarranty................................................................................................................................117
Addendum for NorthAmerican Products ...........................................................................................117
AddendumforInternational Products ................................................................................................118
Out of Warranty Repair Costs ............................................................................................................118
SoftwareUser License Agreement...........................................................................................................119
Technical Support ....................................................................................................................................121
ContactingTechnical Support ............................................................................................................121
RecordingRouteFinderInformation ...................................................................................................121
On-lineWarrantyRegistration ............................................................................................................121
Aboutthe Internet ....................................................................................................................................121
OrderingAccessories ..............................................................................................................................122
Appendix
AppendixA - Regulatory ComplianceInformation....................................................................................124
Class B Statement - FCC Part 15 .....................................................................................................124

Appendix B - Tools for your RF500S ........................................................................................................125
RouteFinderMonitor ..........................................................................................................................125
PING .................................................................................................................................................125
WINIPCFGandIPCONFIG ...............................................................................................................125
TRACERT .........................................................................................................................................126
AppendixC - Cabling Diagrams ...............................................................................................................127
Glossary ..................................................................................................................................................128
Index........................................................................................................................................................133

Chapter 1 - Introduction

7
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Introduction
Congratulationson the purchase of the Multi-Tech System’s RouteFinder model RF500S, one
of the finest broadband routers available today.
The RouteFinder connects a cable or DSL modem to an Ethernet LAN to provide high-speed
broadband access to the Internet for multiple users. The RouteFinder router features a built-in
4-port 10/100 switch, one asynchronous port for backup Internet access or dial-in remote
access, and firewall services. This solution is ideal for any business looking for cost-effective
broadband access to the Internet for every use on the LAN or for the home user looking to
share their DSL cable modem.
Connects up to 253 internal IP addresses to the Internet with broadband speed. The
RouteFinder can be configured as a DHCP server to handle requests for Internet services and
route to and from the ISP. Up to 253 internal IP addresses are connected to the Internet with
only one IP account. The WAN Ethernet port has a bandwidth of 10M bs which is 179 times
faster than a 56k modem and can support DSL or cable speeds of up to 2.5M bs.
Built-in 10/100 Switch. The integrated 4-port 10/100 switch eliminates the need for an
additional hub or switch to connect users not on a LAN. It ensures high-speed transmission
and can serve as a completely dedicated full duplex backbone.
Network Security. The RouteFinder uses the NAT protocol to provide security from hackers
attempting to access the office LAN without the extra cost of a firewall. It implements firewall
and gateway security for LAN-based resources. Additionally, the RouteFinder supports
Internet access restriction by IP address, client protocols or a list of forbidden sites.
Dial Backup or Dial-in RAS Port. The RouteFinder also provides an additional asynchronous
port that, when connected to a dial-up modem or ISDN terminal adapter, serves as a backup
resource for Internet access if your cable or DSL service goes down. It can also serve as
dial-in remote access for your telecommuters or mobile users.
Virtual Server Support. In addition to providing shared Internet access, the RouteFinder can
support Web, FTPor other Internet servers. Once configured, the RouteFinder accepts only
unsolicited IP packets addressed to the Web or FTP server.
LAN Segmentation. For added LAN security, the RouteFinder can be used to segment the
LAN by connecting the corporate servers to one RouteFinder Ethernet port and the Internet
Servers to the other Ethernet port. This configuration puts the corporate servers behind a
firewall and the Internet servers outside the firewall. To continue to provide Internet access,
connect a modem or ISDN terminal adapter to the RouteFinder’s asynchronous port.
The RouteFinder RF500S

8
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide
Front Panel
RF500SFrontPanel
Front Panel Description
LAN
Link/ACT Lights when the LAN client is correctly connected to the 10 BaseT Ethernet LAN.
100 Lights when the LAN client correctly establishes a 100M bs connection.
FDX/COL A constant light indicates a successful LAN connection. A frequently flickering light
indicatesa potential network connectionproblem.
Serial
Data Blinks when the Serial async port is receiving or transmitting data.
DCD Lights when the Serial async port is properly connected to a remote site.
WAN
Link Lights when a successful connection to the 10BaseT WAN is established.
RXD Lights when the LAN port is receiving data.
TXD Lights when the LAN port is transmitting data.
Power Lights when power is being supplied to the router.
BackPanel
Uplink/Normal
1234
Serial Reset
WAN
5VDC
RF500S Back Panel
Back Panel Description
Power5VDC The 5V DC Power socket is used to connect the device to theAC power
adapter.
10BTWAN The WAN port is used to connect the router to a DSLor Cable modem.
ASYNC The Serial async port connects the router to a standard modem (optional).
Reset The Reset button is used to reset the router to factory defaults.
10/100 BT LAN The 4-10/100 ports are used to connect the router to LAN client workstations.
If the RF500S is set to use the Uplink feature, the number 1 LAN port is
inactive as a LAN port.
Uplink/Normal Slide the switch to the Uplink position to use the number 1 LAN 10/100 port
to expand your network by connecting a network cable to another router,
switch or hub. To connect the number 1 port to a LAN client workstation,
slide the switch to the Normal position.

9
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Typical Applications
The following examples provide information about typical applications using the RF500S. They
describe using the RF500S to connect a remote site via a cable modem, using the RF500S to
segment a local area network, and using the RF500S to connect a LAN to the Internet using one
shared IP address.
Connecting a Remote Site via Cable Modem
In the following example the RF500S is used to connect a LAN to the Internet via DSL or a cable
modem.
Kernal: NAT (outgoingTCP/IPconnection sharing a single Internet IP address or
using multiple IP mapping)
• Virtual Server (allowing incoming specificTCP/IP service request redirect to
an internal server)
• Static Routing (Routing table setting to Internal Local Gateways)
• Firewall
External: Fixed External Port IP or DHCPclient (Dynamic IP assigned)
Internal: Device Fixed IP
DHCPServer
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.106
Internet
Cable Mo em
RouteFin er
RF500S
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.105
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.104
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.103
IP A ress
192.168.0.1
Connect Remote Site via Cable Modem

10
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide
Connecting a Local Site by Segmenting the LAN
In this application, the RF500S is used to connect LAN segments within a local site.
Kernal: IP Routing Static Routing (Routing table to External or Internal Gateways)
•Firewall
External: Fixed External IP or DHCP client (Dynamic IP only)
Internal: Device Fixed IP
DHCPServer
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.106
Department
Segment
(Ethernet)
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.105
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.1.101
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.1.100
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.104
Major
Segment
(Ethernet)
RouteFin er
RF500S
IP A ress
192.168.0.1
Server
IP Address
192.168.0.103
Server
IP Address
192.168.1.102
Connect Local Site (Segmenting the LAN)

11
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Connecting a Local Site to the Internet
In this application, the RF500S is used to connect up to 253 Internal IP addresses to the Internet
using a single shared external IP address.
Kernal: NAT
(outgoingTCP/IPconnection sharing single External Port IPor using
multipleIP Mapping)
•Virtual Server (allow incoming specific TCP/IP service request redirect to
internal server)
•Firewall
External: Fixed External Port IP and mask DNS IP, Gateway IP or DHCP client
(Dynamic IP for the device, DNS and Gateway assigned.)
Internal: Device Fixed IP
DHCPServer
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.106
NAT
Hi en Clients an Servers
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.105
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.1.101
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.1.100
Workstation
IP Address
192.168.0.104
Major
Segment
Gateway
Internet
RouteFin er
RF500S
IP A ress
192.168.0.1
Server
IP Address
192.168.0.103
Server
IP Address
192.168.1.102
Connect Local Site (I External IP address = 253 Internal IP addresses)

12
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide
Specifications
Hardware ARM RISC CPU
32 bit, 40MHZ
4MB DRAM and 512k Flash ROM
UARTSerial port controller
LANPorts Numberof Ports: 4
Interface: 10BaseT/100BaseTX, - One port can be used for uplink
Standard:802.3
WAN Ports 1 x 10BaseT
1x RS232 (V.24)
DTESpeed: Up to 460K asynchronous
Protocols Security:PAP/CHAP, MSCHAP,NATFirewall,RADIUS and Callback for
remote access.
Network: TCP/IP, IPX, DHCP, PPP, PPPoE
Filtering: Protocol, port number, URL address and IPaddress
LED Indicators 1indicator for Power On
3indicators for WAN function (LINK,TxD,RxD)
2 indicators for SerialAsync function (DATA, DCD)
3 indicators for each of 4 LAN ports functions (LINK/ACT, 100, FDX/COL)
PowerOutput 5VDC,1000mA
Dimensions 7.1 in. (w) x 4.9 in. (h) x 1.4 in. (d)
18.1 cm x 12.5 cm x 3.5 cm
Weight 380g
13 oz.
Memory RAM:4MB
FlashROM: 512k
Operating
Environment: Temperature Range: 32 - 120degrees F (0 -50 degrees C)
Humidity:25-85%non-condensing
Approvals: FCC Part 15 & CE Mark
Warranty 2 - yearwarranty

Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation

14
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide
Hardware Installation
Safety
1. Neverinstalltelephone wiring during a lightning storm.
2. Never install telephone jacks in a wet location unless the jack is specifically designed for wet
locations.
3. This product is to be used with UL and cUL listed computers.
4. Nevertouchuninsulated telephone wires or terminals unless the telephone line has been
disconnected at the network interface.
5. Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm. There may be
a remote risk of electrical shock from lightening.
7. Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
8. To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26AWG or larger Telecommunications line Cord.
Unpacking the RF500S
The RF500S shipping box contains the following items:
•System CD
•Tucows CD
•PowerSupply
•TheRouteFinderRF500S
•The RF500S RouteFinder Quick Start Guide
•A serial cable
If any of the items is missing or damaged, please contact Multi-Tech Systems.

15
Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation
Cabling
Cablingyour RouteFinder requires making the appropriate connectionsto PCs, Cable or DSL
modem, analog modem or ISDN TA(optional),AC power and the router. Because this device also
acts as a DHCP server, after your device is properly cabled, you will need to follow the
configurationinstructions provided in the Software Installation and Configuration chapter.
Uplink/Normal
1234
Serial Reset
WAN
5VDC
Optional
Uplink
Serial Cable
To Cable Modem
or DSL Modem
Power Connection
To optional
Modem or
ISDN TA Network Printer
Hub
PC
PC
Cabling the RouteFinder RF500S
1. Before beginning, turn the power off on all network devices (PCs, Cable, DSL modems, analog
modems,ISDNTAs and the router).
2. Connect the Ethernet port of each PC or network device to one of the 4 LAN ports (if you are
using the Uplink option, port number 1 cannot be used as a LAN port).
3. If you are using an analog modem, connect it to the SerialAsync port.
4. If you are using the Uplink option to connect to another network segment, slide the Uplink/
Normal switch into the Uplink position. Connect the LAN cable to LAN port #1. Plug the other
end of the LAN cable into another hub, router or switch.
Note: If you are not using the Uplink feature, place the switch in the Normal position.
5. Connect a network cable from the cable or DSLmodem to the 10 BT WAN port.
6. Connect the provided power supply cable to the 5VDC power port on the back of the router.
Plug the power supply into an AC power outlet as shown above.
7. Poweronyour DSLmodemorCable.
8. If you are using an analog modem or ISDNTA, power on the device.
9. Press and hold the RouteFinder’s Reset button for 3 seconds to restore the default settings.
10. You are ready to configure software for your RouteFinder and network PCs.

Chapter 3 - Software Installation
and Configuration

17
Chapter 3 - Software Installation and Configuration
Software Installation and Configuration
Before beginning the installation process, ensure that your system meets all hardware and
softwarerequirements:
•Intel486 or higher processor.
•10/100 BaseT cable to connect the RF500S to the network.
•OneDSL or Cable Modem.
•Anetworkedcomputer with Windows 95/98/2000, Windows NT3.5or higher andTCP/IP
protocol installed (or, a non-Windows system with TCP/IPproperly installed to enableTelnet
configuration).
•AnyWindows communication application for Dial-Outoperation.
•Any PPPsupported communication application for Dial-In operation.
•TCP/IP installed and configured on each workstation accessing the Internet.
Software Installation
The software installation process involves installing the RouteFinder Utilities, including
RouteFinderSetup Wizard, RouteFinder Manager andRouteFinder Monitor. Adescriptionofeach
componentfollows:
RouteFinder Setup Wizard
The RouteFinder Setup Wizard provides a step-by-step process to assist you in entering all the
basic settings needed to configure your RF500S for general use. All settings that are entered in
the Setup Wizard can be found in their respective menus in the RouteFinder Manager.
RouteFinder Manager
RouteFinder Manager is the main program used to configure all settings for your RF500S.
Completeinformation about options within the RouteFinder Managercan be found in the
RouteFinderManager chapter in this UserGuide.
RouteFinder Monitor
RouteFinder Monitor is a multi-purpose utility designed to let you know the status of your RF500S
connection. The monitor offers the ability to point and click on an event to access troubleshooting
procedures. Referto the RouteFinder Monitor chapter in this User Guide for more information.

18
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide
Using RouteFinder Setup Wizard
Note: Beforebeginning this procedure, ensure that your RF500S is properly connected to the
networkand is powered on.
After installing the software, you may return to the RouteFinder Setup Wizard at any time, by
clicking Start | Programs | RouteFinder Manager | RouteFinder Wizard.
Before running the Setup Wizard, it is strongly recommended that you exit all Windows programs.
1. Insert the RF500S System CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive. The RF500S System CD
screenappears.
Note: IfAutorun is disabled on your computer, use Windows Explorer to view the contents of
the CD. Double-click the CD icon to display the RF500S System CD main screen.
2. Click Install Software.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
4. When the software installation completes, the Setup Wizard dialog box displays.
Click OK.

19
Chapter 3 - Software Installation and Configuration
5. TheSetup Wizard: Device List dialog box displays.The Setup Wizard automatically checks
your network for available network devices and displays them on the screen.
Select the device you wish to configure from the Device Name list.
Recordthe values presented in the Device Information panel for later reference.
DeviceIPAddress ______________________
DeviceMACAddress ____________________
DeviceFirmwareVersion _________________
ClickNext>>.
Note: If a message appears indicating the device is not found, or you do not see the device
you are attempting to configure listed, click the Refresh Device List button.

20
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide
6. TheSetup Wizard: Device IPAddress dialogboxdisplays.
•Enter your local internal network’s IPaddress for this device.
The Setup Wizard will automatically detect the first three octets of your local IP address. You
must enter the last octet only.
•If you wish, you can change the network name of your RouteFinder. If your ISP requires your
device to have a name, you may use the value entered in this field.
•Click Next>> to continue. The device will search the network to ensure that the IP address is
valid. This may take several seconds.
Note: If your ISP provided you with an IP address, do not enter that address in this field.
Enter the IP address for this device on your local network. Refer to the Glossary in this User
Guidefor additionalinformation onIP addressing.