Multitech RoteFinder RF500S User manual

Model RF500S
Broadband Router
User Guide

User Guide
Broadband Router
Model RF500S
PN S000125D Revision D
Copyright
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 © 2001by 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 Date Description
A10/09/00 Manual updated for release in MTS case.
All pages at Software Version 7.12
B10/05/01 Manual updated to include a section on using an Internet
browser to configure your RouteFinder, a clarification of the
FDX/COL LED’s function, a new FAQ section, and minor edits.
All pages at Software Version 7.26
C 01/03/02 All pages at Software Version 7.29
D07/17/02 Changed RF500S back panel graphics
Patents
This device is covered by one or more of the following patents: 6,219,708; 6,031,867; 6,012,113;
6,009,082; 5,905,794; 5,864,560; 5,815,567; 5,815,503; 5,812,534; 5,809,068; 5,790,532;
5,764,628; 5,764,627; 5,754,589; D394,250; 5,724,356; 5,673,268; 5,673,257; 5,644,594;
5,628,030; 5,619,508; 5,617,423; 5,600,649; 5,592,586; 5,577,041; 5,574,725; D374,222;
5,559,793; 5,546,448; 5,546,395; 5,535,204; 5,500,859; 5,471,470; 5,463,616; 5,453,986;
5,452,289; 5,450,425; D361,764; D355,658; D355,653; D353,598; D353,144; 5,355,365;
5,309,562; 5,301,274. Other Patents Pending
Trademarks
Trademark of Multi-Tech Systems, is the Multi-Tech logo. Windows, Windows 95, 98, Me, NT and
2000 are trademarks of Microsoft. All other trademarks are owned by their respective companies.
World Headquarters
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

Table of Contents
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 3
Contents
Contents ...................................................................................................................... 3
Chapter 1 - Introduction ............................................................................................. 6
RF500S Front Panel................................................................................................... 7
Back Panel ................................................................................................................. 8
Application Examples ................................................................................................. 9
Example 1 – Connecting a Local LAN to the Internet ................................................. 9
Example 2 – Local LAN to Internet / Remote Site .................................................... 10
Example 3 – LAN to LAN via an Async Port............................................................. 11
Specifications ........................................................................................................... 15
Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation ............................................................................ 17
Safety ....................................................................................................................... 17
Unpacking the RF500S............................................................................................. 17
Requirements ........................................................................................................... 17
Cabling ..................................................................................................................... 18
Cabling Directions..................................................................................................... 19
Chapter 3 – Configure and Manage Using a Web Browser ................................... 21
Overview of Configuration and Management............................................................ 21
Using the Web Browser............................................................................................ 22
Setup Wizard ............................................................................................................ 23
Setup Wizard Screen................................................................................................ 24
Device Information.................................................................................................... 29
Device Status ........................................................................................................... 30
Advanced Settings.................................................................................................... 31
System Tools............................................................................................................ 40
Chapter 4 - Software Installation and Configuration.............................................. 48
RouteFinder Wizard Screen Flow............................................................................. 49
Using the RouteFinder Setup Wizard ....................................................................... 50
Testing Your Connection .......................................................................................... 64
Chapter 5 - RouteFinder Manager............................................................................ 66
General Settings Screen........................................................................................... 67
Port Settings ............................................................................................................. 79
LAN DHCP Server.................................................................................................... 86
Routing Settings ....................................................................................................... 88
Filter Settings............................................................................................................ 92
Refresh Device List................................................................................................... 98
Device Name and Password .................................................................................... 98

Table of Contents
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 4
Save Settings to File................................................................................................. 99
Load Settings.......................................................................................................... 100
Upgrade Firmware .................................................................................................. 101
General Diagnostic ................................................................................................. 102
Chapter 6 - RouteFinder Monitor ........................................................................... 104
RouteFinder Monitor TCP/IP Tab ........................................................................... 105
RouteFinder Monitor Time Tab............................................................................... 106
RouteFinder Monitor Status Tab............................................................................. 107
RouteFinder Monitor Statistics Tab......................................................................... 108
RouteFinder Monitor Main Screen Buttons............................................................. 109
Chapter 7 - Troubleshooting .................................................................................. 113
Chapter 8 – Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................. 117
Appendix A – Warranty, Service, and Technical Support ...................................121
Appendix B – Software User License Agreement ................................................ 124
Appendix C – Regulatory Compliance Information.............................................. 126
Appendix D – Tools for Your RF500S.................................................................... 127
Appendix E – Writing a Login Script ..................................................................... 129
Glossary................................................................................................................... 132
Index......................................................................................................................... 136

RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 5
Chapter 1
Introduction

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 6
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Welcome to the world of broadband connectivity to the Internet.
The Multi-Tech Broadband RouteFinder connects a cable modem or DSL modem to an
Ethernet LAN to provide high-speed broadband access to the Internet for up to 253 users.
The Broadband Router features a built-in 4-port 10/100M bps switch, one asynchronous
port for backup Internet access or dial-in remote access, firewall services, and network
security. This product is ideal for any business looking for cost-effective broadband access
to the Internet for every user on the LAN or for the home user looking to share their DSL
cable connection.
Connects up to 253 internal IP addresses to the Internet with broadband speed.
With the RouteFinder, up to 253 users are connected to the Internet with only one IP
account. The WAN Ethernet port has a bandwidth of 10M bps which is 179 times faster
than a 56K modem and can support DSL or cable speeds of up to 4M bps.
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 port
number.
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,
can serve 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, FTP or other Internet servers. Once configured, the RouteFinder accepts
only unsolicited IP packets addressed to the Web, FTP, or other specified servers.
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

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 7
RF500S Front Panel
LAN LEDs
Link/ACT Lights when the LAN client is correctly connected to the Ethernet port.
Blinks when the LAN client is correctly connected to the Ethernet port.
100 Lights when the LAN client is connected at 100MB. Off when the LAN client
is connected at 10MB.
FDX/COL Lights when the LAN client is connected as full duplex. Off when the LAN
client is connected as half duplex. Blinks when there are collisions on the
network.
Serial LEDs
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 LEDs
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.

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 8
Back Panel
Power 5VDC Connect one end of the power cord to power socket and the other
end to the power outlet.
10 BT WAN The WAN port is used to connect the router to a DSL or 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 1port to a
LAN client workstation, slide the switch to the Normal position.

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 9
Application Examples
The following examples provide information about RF500S typical applications. The three
examples include:
1. Connecting a local LAN to Internet.
2. Connecting a local LAN to the Internet and setting up a remote site.
3. Setting up a LAN to LAN via the Async Port.
Example 1 – Connecting a Local LAN to the Internet

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 10
Example 2 – Local LAN to Internet / Remote Site

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 11
Example 3 – LAN to LAN via an Async Port
Note: Set the modem type to leased line.

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 12
Setup for Example 3
The setup describes the RF500S used as routers to route IP traffic between two LANs.
Network Addresses
LAN A IP Network Address: 192.168.2.x
WAN IP Network Address: 10.10.10.x
LAN B IP Network Address: 192.168.100.x
Note: Between LAN A and LAN B Are Two RF500S RouteFinders and One 56K
LAN A
RF500S WAN Ethernet port in this case is not used
95/98 Workstation has IP Address: 192.168.2.2
RF500S 10/100 Ethernet port has IP Address: 192.168.2.1
RS232 WAN port has local IP Address: 192.168.100.1
RS232 WAN port has remote IP Address: 192.168.100.2
LAN B
RF500S WAN Ethernet port in this case is not used
95/98 Workstation has IP Address: 10.10.10.2
RF500S 10/100 Ethernet port has IP Address: 10.10.10.1
RS232 WAN port has local IP Address: 192.168.100.2
RS232 WAN port has remote IP Address: 192.168.100.1
RF500S Setup for LAN A
1. Bring up the RouteFinder Manager program
2. Select the RF500S from the Available Devices list
3. Click the General Settings button. The General Settings main screen displays.
LAN Ethernet Segment
Set Server IP Address: 192.168.2.1
Set Server IP Netmask: 255.255.255.0
WAN Ethernet Segment
Uncheck NAT
Uncheck PPOE
Async Port Setup
Check IP Routing
Click the PPP Settings button. The IP Routing Settings screen displays.
IP Routing Settings Screen
Uncheck IP Routing (so NAT is disabled)
Enter the Phone Number of the modem on the other side
Enter the User Name and Password if you want authentication (the RF500S on
the other side needs to be setup properly for this)
Enter the External (port) IP: 192.168.100.1

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 13
Check Assign Remote Site an IP Address and enter the IP Address:
192.168.100.2
Check Allow Remote Dial-in
Click the Remote Authentication Settings button if you want to authenticate with
user name and password. The Remote Connection Authentication screen
displays.
Remote Connection Authentication Screen
If you check PAP, then check Use Local Settings and enter the Remote User
Name and Remote Password.
Click the OK button and return to the RouteFinder Manager main menu.
4. On the RouteFinder Manager main menu, click the Port Settings button to setup
your modem.
Click the Dialup/Hangup Setting button to enable/disable dial-on-demand.
Click the OK button to return to the RouteFinder Manager main screen.
5. On the RouteFinder Manager main screen, click the Routing Settings button.
Add the Default Gateway as 192.168.100.2 and the Interface as Async Port
6. Click Save and Exit
Workstation Setup for LAN A
Set IP Address to 192.168.2.2
Set Default Gateway to 192.168.2.1
RF500S Setup for LAN B
1. Bring up the RouteFinder Manager program
2. Select the RF500S from the Available Devices list
3. Click the General Settings button
LAN Ethernet Segment
Set Server IP Address: 10.10.10.1
Set Server IP Netmask: 255.255.255.0
WAN Ethernet Segment
Uncheck NAT
Uncheck PPOE
Async Port Setup
Check IP Routing
Click the PPP Settings button. The IP Routing Settings screen displays.
IP Routing Settings Screen
Uncheck IP Routing (so NAT is disabled)
Enter the Phone Number of the modem on the other side
Enter the User Name and Password if you want authentication (the RF500S on
the other side needs to be setup properly for this)
Enter the External (port) IP: 192.168.100.2

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 14
Check Assign Remote Site an IP Address and enter the IP Address:
192.168.100.1
Check Allow Remote Dial-in
Click the Remote Authentication Settings button if you want to authenticate
with user name and password. The Remote Connection Authentication screen
displays.
Remote Connection Authentication Screen
If you check PAP, then check Use Local Settings and enter the Remote User
Name and Remote Password.
Click the OK button and return to the RouteFinder Manager main menu.
4. On the RouteFinder Manager main menu, click the Port Settings button to setup
your modem.
Click the Dialup/Hangup Setting button to enable/disable dial-on-demand.
Click the OK button to return to the RouteFinder Manager main menu.
5. On the RouteFinder Manager main menu, click the Routing Settings button.
Add the Default Gateway as 192.168.100.1 and the Interface as Async Port
6. Click Save and Exit
Workstation Setup for LAN B
Set IP Address to 10.10.10.2
Set Default Gateway to 10.10.10.1
Once Setup Is Complete
You can try to ping 10.10.10.1 on the LAN A workstation. This will cause the RF500S on
LAN A to dial and connect to the RF500S on LAN B. Once both modems are connected, you
will see all the ping responses.
You can also bring up the RouteFinder Monitor program to see the activities on the Async
Port.

Chapter 1 – Introduction
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 15
Specifications
Hardware ARM RISC CPU32 bit, 40MHZ
4MB DRAM and 512k Flash ROM
UART Serial port controller
LAN Ports Number of Ports: 4
Interface: 10Base T/100BaseTX, - One port can be used for uplink
Standard: 802.3
WAN Ports 1 x 10BaseT
1 x RS232 (V.24)
DTE Speed: Up to 460K asynchronous
Protocols Security: PAP/CHAP, MSCHAP, NAT Firewall, RADIUS and
Callback for remote access.
Network: TCP/IP, IPX, DHCP, PPP, PPPoE
Filtering: Protocol, port number, URL address and IP address
LED Indicators 1 indicator for Power On
3 indicators for WAN function (LINK, TxD, RxD)
2 indicators for Serial Async function (DATA, DCD)
3 indicators for each of 4 LAN ports functions (LINK/ACT, 100,
FDX/COL)
Power Output 5VDC, 1000mA
Dimensions 230mm(L) x 152mm(W) x 39.5mm (H)
9.06 “ (L) x 5.98 “ (W) x 1.55” (H)
Weight 380g
13 oz.
Memory RAM: 4MB
Flash ROM: 512k
Temperature Temperature Range: 32 - 120 degrees F (0 - 50 degrees C)
Humidity: 25-85% non-condensing
Approvals FCC Part 15 & CE Mark
Warranty 2-year warranty

RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 16
Chapter 2
Hardware Installation

Chapter 2 – Hardware Installation
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 17
Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation
Safety
1. Never install telephone 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. Never touch uninsulated telephone wires or terminals unless the telephone line has
been disconnected at the network interface.
5. Avoid using a telephone 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. 26 AWG or larger Telecommunications line
Cord.
9. Use only the power source supplied with your product or an equivalent power
source supplying the minimum power requirements.
Unpacking the RF500S
The RF500S shipping box contains the following items:
• System CD
• Power Source
• The RouteFinder RF500S
• The RF500S RouteFinder Quick Start Guide
• A serial cable
If any items are missing or damaged, please contact Multi-Tech Systems.
Requirements
• Intel 486 or higher processor.
• 10/100 BaseT cable to connect the RF500S to the network.
• One DSL or Cable Modem.
• A networked computer with Windows 95/98/Me/2000, Windows NT 3.5 or higher
and TCP/IP protocol installed (or a non-Windows system with TCP/IP properly
installed to enable Telnet configuration).
• Any PPP supported communication application for Dial-In operation.
• TCP/IP installed and configured on each workstation accessing the Internet.

Chapter 2 – Hardware Installation
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 18
Cabling
Cabling your RouteFinder requires making the appropriate connections to PCs, Cable or
DSL modem, analog modem or ISDN TA (optional), AC power, and the RouteFinder. Then,
after your device is properly cabled, you will have to configure your RouteFinder. Follow
the instructions provided in the Web Browser Configuration and Management chapter.

Chapter 2 – Hardware Installation
RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 19
Cabling Directions
Before beginning, turn the power off on all network devices (PCs, Cable/xDSL modems,
analog modems, ISDN TAs, and the router).
1. Connect the Ethernet port of each PC or network device to one of the 4 LAN ports.
Important: If you are using the Uplink option, Port Number 1 cannot be used as a
LAN port).
2. If you are using an analog modem, connect it to the Serial Async port.
3. 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
Number 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.
4. Connect a network cable from the cable or DSL modem to the 10 BT WAN port.
5. 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.
Power and Reset Button
1. Power on your cable or DSL modem.
2. If you are using an analog modem or ISDN TA, power on the device.
3. Press and hold the RouteFinder’s Reset button for 3 seconds to restore the default
settings.
You are ready to configure software for your RouteFinder and network PCs.

RouteFinder RF500S User Guide 20
Chapter 3
Web Browser Configuration
And Management