Black Box Switch SW925A User Manual

APRIL 2000

SW925A

SW925AE

SW926C

SW927C

SW928C

SW929C

Modular Smart Switch

POW

BUFFER

3/4

1/2

1/4

CUSTOMER

SUPPORT

INFORMATION

Order toll-free in the U.S.: Call 877-877-BBOX (outside U.S. call 724-746-5500)

FREE technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax 724-746-0746

Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018

1000 Park Drive

•

Lawrence, PA 15055-1018

•

724-746-5500

•

Fax 724-746-0746

Web site: www.blackbox.com

•

E-mail: [email protected]

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM)

MODULAR SMART SWITCH

12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la polarización

del equipo no sea eliminada.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT

13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no

sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos,

poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen del

aparato.

INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD

14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las

recomendaciones del fabricante.

1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de

que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.

15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas

de energia.

2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para

referencia futura.

16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no sea

usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.

3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de

operación deben ser respetadas.

17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objectos liquidos no sean

derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.

4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.

18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:

5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo, cerca

de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca, etc..

A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u

B: Objectos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato; o

C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o

6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales que

sean recomendados por el fabricante.

7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como sea

recomendado por el fabricante.

D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su

desempeño; o

E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.

8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico más allá

a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro servicio deberá ser

referido a personal de servicio calificado.

9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no

interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama, sofá,

alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se debe colocar

en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los orificios de

ventilación.

10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de calor

como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos (incluyendo

amplificadores) que producen calor.

11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo del

tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el aparato.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL

Contents

Any trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the

trademark owners.

Chapter

Page

1. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.2 Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

3. Installing Port Modules and Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

3.1 Fitting Expansion-Buffer Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

3.2 Fitting Port Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

4. Configuring the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

4.1 Setting the Global Timeout Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

4.2 Setting Parallel Ports as Inputs or Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

4.3 Setting Serial Port Protocols and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

5. Installing the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

5.1 Selecting Ports for Your Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

5.2 Positioning the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

5.3 Cable Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

5.4 Connecting Devices to the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

5.5 Switching On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

5.6 Enabling Computers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

5.7 Using the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

5.8 Port Indicators (1 to 12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

5.9 Buffer Status Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

6. Using the Control Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

6.1 Installing the Resident Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

6.2 Running the Software from the DOS Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

6.3 Command-Line Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

6.4 Running the Software from within Microsoft Windows . . . . . . . . . .28

6.5 Using the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

6.6 Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

6.7 Selecting a Destination Printer, Plotter, or Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

6.8 Direct Output of Typed Keyboard Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

6.9 Using the Functions Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

6.9.1 Sending a Form Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

6.9.2 Clearing Unwanted Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

6.9.3 Ending Long or Infinite Timeouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

6.10 Setting the Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

6.10.1 Multiple Copies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

6.10.2 Changing the Timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

6.10.3 Selecting a PC Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

Chapter

Page

Chapter

Page

7. Serial Port Control Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Appendix A: Serial Ports ..................................................................................53

A.1 RS-232 and RS-422 Pin Assignments....................................................53

A.2 Connecting to Computers—RS-232 Connections ..............................54

A.2.1 RS-232 Connections to IBM PCs and Compatibles ..................54

A.2.2 RS-232 Connectors to IBM AT and compatibles ......................55

A.3 Connecting to Printers .........................................................................56

A.4 Connecting to Modems........................................................................57

A.5 Connecting to Plotters..........................................................................58

A.6 Connecting to NEC Spinwriter............................................................59

A.7 Connecting to DEC LN03 Laser Printer .............................................60

A.8 RS-422 Cables........................................................................................61

8. Using the Modular Smart Switch to Transfer Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

8.1 Transferring Files between IBM compatible PCs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

8.2 Using the Software with File-Transfer Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

8.3 Transferring Files Between PCs Not Compatible

with IBM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

8.4 General Hints and Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

9. Software Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

9.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

9.2 Connect Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

9.2.1 Selecting a Destination Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

9.2.2 Printing Several Copies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

9.2.3 Broadcasting Data to Several Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

9.2.4 Varying the Timeout Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

9.2.5 Disabling Software Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

9.2.6 Removing Line Feeds at End of Software

Appendix B: Parallel Ports ...............................................................................62

B.1 Parallel Pin Assignments ......................................................................62

B.2 Cable for IBM PC/XT, AT, or compatible..........................................64

B.3 Cable to a 36-pin Amphenol ................................................................64

Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

9.3 Clear Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

9.4 End of File Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

9.5 Creating Batch Files to Send Commands (IBM

compatible PCs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

9.6 Setting Default Start of Day Destination Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

10. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

10.1 Self-Test at Power-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

10.2 Parallel Interfaces—No Data Transmitted through the

Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

10.3 Parallel Interfaces—Corrupted, Extra, or Lost Data . . . . . . . . . . . .51

10.4 Problems Interfacing Serial Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

10.5 Serial Interfaces—No Data Transmitted through the

Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

10.6 Serial Interfaces—Corrupted Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

10.7 Merged Printouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

10.8 Print Data Transmitted but File Transfer Fails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

1. Specifications

2. Introduction

Base Chassis (SW925A/SW925AE)—6 dual-port module slots, 2 memory

The Modular Smart Switch is suitable for a wide variety of applications,

including printer and plotter sharing, file transfer, modem sharing, network

switching, electronic point-of-sale systems, access control networks, machine

tool control, data collection, and mainframe connections.

module slots, integral power supply

Ports—Parallel: Dual parallel-port module slots with DB25 female connectors.

Automatic in/out detection or selectable by option switches. 30,000 cps.

Serial: Dual serial-port modules contain 2 bidirectional RS-232/422

interfaces with DB25 male connectors.

2.1 Features

• Modular and user-upgradeable construction.

Switches—Control protocol and RS-232/422 selection and baud rates.

Baud Rates—300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, and 57600 bps

Handshake—CTS/DTR hardware XON/XOFF, ETX/ATK.

• Mixed serial (RS-232/422) and parallel ports in any combination.

• Up to 12 ports and 4 MB of buffer memory.

• Automatic printer and plotter sharing.

Functional Features—Code-string control; data broadcast to multiple ports;

print to first available printer; file transfer compatible with Laplink,

Fastlynx, Kermit, Xmodem, etc.

• Any port can be routed to any other port.

• File transfer between computers using standard file-transfer software.

• Memory-resident control software for selecting destination ports.

• Multiple copies of printouts.

Timeout—Selectable from 1 to 255 seconds

Indicators—LEDs: Buffer status, individual channel activity, power

Power—115 or 230 VAC, 60/50 Hz

• Unwanted print data can be cleared from the switch’s buffer.

• Software for high-speed serial data output from PCs.

• Full-duplex serial data communications.

Size—3.5"H x 13.1"W x 9.4"D (9 x 33.5 x 24 cm)

Weight—7.7 lb. (3.5 kg)

2.2 Product Information

The following items are available:

• Modular Smart Switch Chassis w/ 1 Meg Memory (SW925A, SW925AE)

includes:

Main chassis with 6 dual-port module slots and 2 memory slots

Software disk in 3.5" format

Power lead with 115 VAC or 230 VAC plug

5 module blanking plates with fixing screws

This user manual

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

• Dual Serial RS232/422 Port Module (SW926C)

• Dual Parallel Port Module In/Out (SW927C)

• 1 Meg Memory Expansion (SW928C)

3. Installing Memory and Port Modules

To fit memory and port modules, you will need to remove the lid of your

Modular Smart Switch. To do this, remove the four retaining screws holding

the lid in place (see Figure 3-2) and lift the lid away.

• 2 Meg Memory Expansion (SW929C)

3.1 Fitting Expansion-Buffer Memory

The Modular Smart Switch contains two memory module slots (A and B),

each of which can be fitted with a 1 MB or 2MB buffer memory module (see

Figure 3-1). The Modular Smart Switch is supplied as standard with a 1 Meg

buffer memory module fitted in slot A.

Memory slot B

Memory slot A

(fill this first)

Figure 3-1. Fitting Expansion Buffer Memory Modules.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

To install additional buffer memory:

• Make sure that the Modular Smart Switch is powered off.

• Insert the expansion buffer memory module into slot A or B (slot A

should be filled first). A polarizing pin ensures that the board is seated

correctly.

The installed buffer memory is automatically tested whenever the Modular

Smart Switch is powered on. The buffer memory indicators will flash while

the test is in progress and go off when the test is complete. If all the channel

and buffer indicators come on permanently, then the buffer has been

installed incorrectly or there is a memory fault.

CAUTION

Always observe static handling precautions when installing memory

modules.

Position of lid

retaining screws

1. Keep the modules in their anti-static bags until you are ready to install

them.

2. Never place memory modules in plastic bags or on plastic surfaces.

Figure 3-2. Fitting Port Modules.

3. Discharge static from your clothes before handling the modules (you

can do this by touching an earth-grounded metal device).

To fit port modules:

1. Make sure that the Modular Smart Switch is powered off.

2. Remove the rear- panel blanking plates as appropriate.

3. Insert the modules as shown in Figure 3-2.

3.2 Fitting Port Modules

• Any type of port module can be fitted into any of the six module slots in

any order.

4. Push the modules onto the mating connectors on the base board.

Do not place too much pressure on the board.

• All slots have equal priority.

• All print data is routed by default to port 1 unless a destination port has

been selected. For automatic printer and plotter sharing, the printer or

plotter should be connected to port 1.

5. Fix the modules to the rear panel using the screws provided.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

4.1 Setting the Global Timeout Period

4. Configuring the Modular Smart Switch

The ports on the Modular Smart Switch are configured using a number

of option switches situated on the modules. In addition to the port

configuration, the global timeout values can be set using option switches

on the main board. Figures 4-1, 4-2, and 4-3 show the meaning of each

of the sets of option switches. Set the option switches as required.

NOTE

The option switches are only read when the Modular Smart Switch is first

powered on. Changing the settings while the Modular Smart Switch is

powered on will have no immediate effect.

0 0 Timeout = 16 seconds

0 1

1 0

1 1

Timeout = 30 seconds

Timeout = 1 minute

Timeout = 4 minutes

OFF

(0)

(1)

Reserved - set to 0

TEST switch - set to 0 (OFF)

for normal operation

Figure 4-1. Setting the Global Timeout Period.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

Timeout Period

4.2 Setting Parallel Ports as Inputs or Outputs

When a user has sent no data for the timeout period, the Modular Smart

Switch is able to switch to another user. The default timeout setting of 16

seconds is suitable for most applications. If printouts are ever merged,

increase the timeout period. Switches 1 and 2 on the base board control the

global default timeout period used by all the ports. Individual port timeouts

can be set using the software (see Chapter 6) or by sending software

commands (see Chapter 9).

LOW port

HIGH port

switches

LOW port

switches

Dual parallel

port module

OFF

(0)

(1)

1 2 3 4

HIGH port switches

LOW port switches

Set port as INPUT 1 0

Set port as OUTPUT 0 1

Set port as INPUT

Set port as OUTPUT

Automatic input/output

detection (* not guaranteed)

Automatic input/output

detection (* not guaranteed)

1 1

Figure 4-2. Selecting the Direction of Parallel Ports (Input or Output).

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

NOTE

Automatic detection of the direction of parallel ports is achieved by

detecting the state of the SELECT IN signal on the hardware interface.

This will operate with most PCs and printers. Automatic detection is not

guaranteed to work with all equipment, so if you experience any

problems, set the ports as dedicated inputs or outputs.

The XON/XOFF setting for printer and plotter con-nections is a

bidirectional protocol that recognizes the XON and XOFF characters in

both directions. The XON/XOFF setting for com-puter connections

recog-nizes the XON and XOFF characters in one direction only. This

allows graphics, font and other non text data to be sent from computers

without problems (the XON and XOFF characters often form part of this

data).

4.3 Setting Serial-Port Protocols and Options

Protocols

Ports on the Modular Smart Switch that are set to XON/XOFF handshake

will also give the hardware handshake signal to ensure maximum

compatibility.

For serial devices, you must set a number of parameters to make sure that the

Modular Smart Switch is “speaking the same language” as the equipment that

it will communicate with. These parameters include the handshake mode,

the baud rate, the parity, the number of bits per character, and the number of

stop bits. Most computers and printers are able to set these parameters, so it

is generally advisable to set the fastest available. This is often 9600 baud, 8

bits per character, one stop bit, no parity, and either hardware handshake or

XON/XOFF.

The bidirectional XON/XOFF protocol used for printer and plotter connec-

tions can also be used for computer connections if the computer will

never send the XON or XOFF characters as part of the data stream.)

RS-232/RS-422 Selection

Each dual serial module supports both RS-232 and RS-422 serial

communication. The hardware signals for RS-232 and RS-422

communication appear on different pins of the interface

(see Appendix A for pin-configuration details).

Hardware Handshake

• DTR/CTS (hardware) handshake uses hardware signal lines to control the

flow of data (pins 5 and 20).

Software Handshake

• ETX/ACK—the flow of data is controlled by sending blocks of data and

waiting for an ACKnowledgement character to be received.

• XON/XOFF (printer and plotter connections)—the flow of data is

controlled by the receiving device by transmitting XOFF (stop data flow)

and XON (start data flow) characters. Set this protocol on ports

connected to printers and plotters.

• XON/XOFF (computer connections)—the flow of data is controlled by

the Modular Smart Switch. This is done by sending XON (start data flow)

and XOFF (stop data flow) characters to the computer. Set this protocol

on ports connected to computers.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

LOW port

HIGH port

5. Installing the Modular Smart Switch

HIGH port

switches

LOW port

switches

5.1 Selecting Ports for Your Equipment

Printer and Plotter Sharing Applications

Dual serial

port module

Unless otherwise specified, all print and plot data will automatically be routed

to port 1. If you are automatically sharing a single printer or plotter, connect

it to port 1. All ports have equal priority and data output is handled on a

“first-come-first-served” basis.

General Datacomm Applications

For applications involving a central controlling PC, the PC should normally

be connected to port 1 since data is routed to this port by default.

OFF

(0)

5.2 Positioning the Modular Smart Switch

Choose a central position for the Modular Smart Switch. This keeps cable

lengths to a minimum.

(1)

9 10

RS422

RS232

7 bits

8 bits

57k6 baud

38k4 baud

19k2 baud

9k6 baud

4k8 baud

2k4 baud

1k2 baud

300 baud

5.3 Cable Requirements

You will need a suitable cable for each device that you wish to connect to the

switch. Mechanical and electrical specifications for the cables are given in

Appendix A (serial) and Appendix B (parallel).

XON/XOFF-printer/plotter connections

XON/XOFF-computer connections

ETX/ACK handshake

2 stop bits

1 stop bit

DTR/CTS handshake

Even parity 0

Odd parity

No parity

NOTE

A great number of serial cables are available that are not suitable for use

with your Modular Smart Switch. Do not assume that an existing cable is

of the correct type because it has the correct connectors on each end or

because it works between two other pieces of equipment. Always use

the cabling recommended in this manual.

Figure 4-3. Setting Serial Port Options and Protocols.

Centronics parallel cables should be less than 22.9 ft. (7 m) long. If the

parallel computer or printer is more than 22.9 ft. (7 m) from the switch, the

cable may be susceptible to spurious pick-up such as that generated from

switching on fluorescent lights. Reduce the cable runs or use a booster if you

have problems.

5.4 Connecting Devices to the Modular Smart Switch

Switch off all computers and printers before making any connections to the

Modular Smart Switch. Also, park any hard disks if you need to move any PCs

to allow access.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

Plug in your cables, making sure that you are using the correct type of cable

(see Appendixes A and B) and that you are connecting to the right type of

port.

MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P <enter>

This sets the baud to 9600, no parity, 8 bits per character, and 1 stop bit on

COM1. You may wish to put this in your computer’s AUTOEXEC.BAT file.

You may wish to use the supplied software to enhance the speed and

functionality of your serial port (refer to Chapter 7 for full details on the

benefits of using the software utility).

CAUTION

Connecting to the wrong type of port could damage both the Modular

Smart Switch and your computers and printers.

ADMODE COM1:57600,N,8,1 <enter>

5.5 Switching On

If you have more than one port on your PC, make sure that your printout is

sent to a port that is connected to the Modular Smart Switch. For IBM

compatible PCs, DOS will prompt you to specify the printer port the first time

you issue a print command. If you are using a parallel port (LPT1, LPT2, or

LPT3), you can print directly without any further setup. If you are normally

using a serial port to output print data, you may wish to redirect the parallel

port data to output on the serial port, using the MODE command. The

following example will set your PC to send all LPT1 data to COM1.

Plug the power supply lead into the rear of the Modular Smart Switch. Plug

the power lead into a suitable supply socket. Switch on at the supply. Switch

on the Modular Smart Switch using the switch at the rear.

The Power indicator (green) should come on and stay on. The Buffer

Status indicators (red) should flicker for a few seconds while the unit self-

tests, and then go out.

MODE LPT1:=COM1:

It is generally better to switch on all your devices together or switch on the

Modular Smart Switch last.

If you are going to plot/print from DOS, make sure that the computer

cannot timeout if the buffer on the Modular Smart Switch becomes full. This

could cause errors on your plots or an error message to be displayed on your

screen. To avoid this, make sure that you have issued a MODE command with

the P option set. If you wish to run your serial port at a high baud rate and

make sure that no computer times out, you can use the MODE and ADMODE

commands together. The ADMODE protocol will always override the MODE

protocol. The following example would set COM1 to 57600 baud, no parity,

8 bits, 1 stop bit, and no application timeout.

5.6 Enabling Computers

Computers Connected to Parallel Ports

Parallel interfaces do not normally need to be configured. For IBM PCs

running DOS, make sure that PC timeouts do not occur if the Modular Smart

Switch’s buffer becomes full. This can be done using the MODE command

as follows. Refer to your DOS manual for details.

MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P <enter>

ADMODE COM1:57600,N,8,1 <enter>

MODE LPT1: , , P

Computers Connected to Serial Ports

NOTE

If you are sending plot/print data from IBM compatibles using a serial

port, make sure that your AUTOEXEC.BAT includes both the MODE (with

P option) and ADMODE commands relevant to that port.

Each computer must communicate with the Modular Smart Switch in the

format expected by the port it is connected to. The baud rate, parity, bits per

character, stop bits, and handshake format must be the same on the

computer and the Modular Smart Switch port. Your computer instruction

manual will tell you how to set up these parameters.

For IBM PCs and compatibles, the MODE command is used to select the

correct parameters. With the default option-switch settings and output on

COM1, the MODE command is:

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

5.7 Using the Modular Smart Switch

5.9 Buffer Status Indicators

Printer and Plotter Sharing Applications

The buffer status indicators show the state of the internal buffer memory in

the form of a bar graph:

The Modular Smart Switch is now ready for use as a printer sharer for the

printer attached to port 1. Data sent in from any computer will automatically

be sent to this port.

• ⁄4 Indicator—Buffer is over 1/4 full

• ⁄2 Indicator—Buffer is over 1/2 full

Users can print simultaneously, and the Modular Smart Switch will buffer

the information until it can be sent to the default printer/plotter. All data

from one source is treated as a single printable file until there has been a

break in the transmission for more than the timeout period (see Section 4.1).

• ⁄4 Indicator—Buffer is over 3/4 full

• F (full) Indicator—Buffer is completely full

If the buffer often fills to the ⁄4 level, consider purchasing additional

memory for increased performance.

If two or more printers/plotters are connected to the Modular Smart

Switch, you will need the software (see Chapter 6) or software commands (see

Chapter 9) to select between them. Other options and facilities are also

detailed in these two sections.

NOTE

The Modular Smart Switch will always operate correctly even if the buffer

becomes full. If you have any problems when the buffer memory is full,

check the handshaking settings on your equipment and your cabling.

General Datacomm Applications

Once you are communicating correctly with the Modular Smart Switch, you

can select between ports by sending ASCII command strings. In addition to

the data destination, these ASCII command strings can be used to select the

timeout period, “broadcast” data to several ports, and make/break permanent

(no timeout) connections. The serial ports on the Modular Smart Switch are

bidirectional. Refer to Chapter 7 for details on how to use the command

strings and the connection options available.

5.8 Port Indicators (1 to 12)

The port indicators can be off, on, or flashing.

• Off—When a port indicator is off, nothing is being transferred into or out

of that port and no data is available.

• On—The port indicator is on when data is available. If data has been sent

in on a port, the activity light will remain on until the port has timed out

(after no data has been sent for the timeout period).

• Flashing—While data is being transferred either into or out of the Modular

Smart Switch, the activity indicator will flash.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

6.3 Command-Line Options

6. Using the Control Software

The control software supports a number of command line options that allow

the utility to be installed and run in several different formats. They also allow

a number of default settings to be changed and different hotkey

combinations to be selected. Options are specified after a forward slash on

the command line. Any number of options can be specified. For example,

the following command line would install the utility for use in text modes

with COM2 as the default port and the hotkey combination set to

<CTRL><SHIFT>.

The control software is located on the disk supplied with your Modular Smart

Switch. It provides an easy and user-friendly way of operating the switch. It is

designed for use on IBM compatible PCs using CGA, EGA, VGA, and

monochrome adapters (it will also run on adapters that emulate the modes

used by these adapters). Its primary function is to enable destination devices

to be selected.

Installing the utility in your PC’s memory as a “resident program” allows

you to “pop up” the control software program at any time using a “hotkey”

combination. The utility supports options that allow the software to run as a

non-resident program from the DOS prompt (see Section 6.2) and while in

the Microsoft Windows environment (see Section 6.4).

ADMENU /T /C2 /H2

The options available are summarized below. The default settings

(shown in brackets) are assumed for all the options that are not specified.

Deletes the utility from memory.

/T and /G (/G default)

(No default)

6.1 Installing the Resident Software

Copy the program ADMENU.COM from the disk to the current directory

on your PC.

At the DOS prompt, type ADMENU <enter>

The /G option allows the resident software to be used in both text and

graphics modes. When installed with the /G option, the software will

occupy 22K of memory. Installing the software with the /T option allows the

control software to be used in text modes only, and the memory requirement

is reduced to 10K. The memory size used is confirmed in the installation

message.

The program will respond by printing an identification message. This

command only needs to be issued once. You may therefore find it convenient

to include it in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. To invoke the ADMENU software,

press these three keys together:

/Lx and /Cx (/L1 default) x=1, 2, or 3

These options specify the PC port that is displayed when the control software

is initially invoked (either COM1, COM2, LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3). The

number of the required port is specified after the letter C or L: C for serial, L

for parallel. The port to be used can be specified once the software has been

invoked using the PC PORT function and so these options are primarily for

convenience only.

NOTE

You can change the hotkey combination used to invoke the ADMENU

software if required (see Section 6.3).

6.2 Running the Control Software from the DOS Prompt

Copy the program ADMENU.COM from the disk to the current directory

on your PC.

/Hx

(/H1 default)

At the DOS prompt, type ADMENU /N <enter>.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

This option allows the hotkey combination that invokes the resident control

software to be changed. There are 5 possible options. The desired option is

selected by specifying the corresponding number after the letter H. The

available hotkey combinations are as follows.

To use HOTKEY within Windows, you must first install the control software

in your computer’s memory. Do this before you run Windows, because once

you are within Windows, resident programs cannot be loaded. You can then

activate HOTKEY by clicking on HOTKEY.COM, HOTKEY.PIF, or an icon

associated with these files.

/H1 selects <CTRL><ALT>

<SHIFT>

/H2 selects <CTRL><SHIFT>

/H3 selects <CTRL><ALT>

/H4 selects <CTRL><ALT>

/H5 selects <LEFT SHIFT>

The control software can also be run as a non-resident utility from the

Windows desktop. To do this, click on ADWIN.PIF or an icon associated with

this file.

NOTE

For Windows 3 users, the easiest way to create an icon associated with

HOTKEY.COM is to make a copy of a current file on the desktop and then

to edit the properties of that file. For example, change the description to

ADMENU and the group file command line to C:\WINDOWS\HOTKEY.

COM.

<SHIFT> can be either the left or the right shift key. The selected

combination is confirmed in the installation message.

/N and /R

(/R default)

These options allow the control software to be run as a non-resident utility.

To do this, use the /N option. To install the menu as a resident program, use

the /R option.

6.5 Using the Control Software

Invoking the control software will cause a menu to appear on the screen.

You can select options from the menu using the <up> and <down> cursor

keys and the <enter> key.

(standard color default)

• Use the <up> and <down> cursor keys to highlight the options in the

menus.

The /M ensures that the menu appears in mono mode. This option is

provided for compatibility with certain types of monochrome screens found

on some LAPTOPS and other computers. If the control software’s menu bars

are faint or non-existent on your screen, then install the software using the

/M option.

• Use <enter> to select a highlighted option.

• Use <escape> to quit from any menu or the application.

6.4 Running the Control Software from within Microsoft^®Windows^®

By using an additional utility (HOTKEY), you can invoke the resident control

software within Windows. It is equivalent to pressing the hotkey combination

that would normally be used to launch the control software.

Hotkey-activated programs cannot be used from the Windows desktop,

since Windows takes over full control of the keyboard, effectively locking

other programs out. HOTKEY overcomes this problem by allowing the

software to be invoked from an icon (or file name) while at the Windows

desktop. HOTKEY remembers previous settings and retains these between

applications. On some computers with additional memory, HOTKEY will run

within a window. Switching to a full-screen application while within Windows,

or quitting from Windows, will enable the hotkey combination to invoke the

menu.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

6.6 Main Menu

MODULAR SMART SWITCH

F. Destination Port—Indicates the port on the Modular Smart Switch that

your PC is currently connected to. All data output from the currently

selected PC port (G) will be routed to this destination port on the

Modular Smart Switch.

ADDER TECHNOLOGY

G. PC Port—Indicates the port on your PC that the control software will use

to send control commands to your Modular Smart Switch. Make sure that

the port that is physically connected to the Modular Smart Switch is

displayed in this box.

ADMENU

DESTINATION

FILE TRANSFER

DIRECT OUTPUT

FUNCTIONS

H. Mode—Indicates whether normal mode or file-transfer mode is

currently selected. In normal mode, a dash (-) will be displayed. In file-

transfer mode, a flashing arrow will be displayed. The mode in use is set

automatically when you select a destination port using the

OPTIONS

PORT 2 LPT1

DESTINATION (normal mode) or FILE TRANSFER option.

<ESC> TO QUIT

6.7 Selecting a Destination Printer, Plotter, or Modem

The control software initially assumes that the Modular Smart Switch is

connected to the PC with a parallel link to LPT1. (Other default ports can

be specified using the /L or /C command-line option—see Section 6.3.)

If a different parallel PC port has been connected (LPT2, LPT3) or one of

the serial PC ports (COM1 or COM2), then you must first select that port—

see Section 6.10.3. Where several links are made to the same PC, then you

first need to make sure that you have selected the PC port that you wish to

use to print data.

Figure 6-1. Main Menu.

With the dialog box displaying the correct PC port and DESTINATION

highlighted, press <enter>. A new box will appear as shown below. Enter

the desired destination port number, then type <enter>. All subsequent print

data that is sent out on the currently selected PC port will be routed to the

device attached to the specified destination port on the Modular Smart

Switch. For example, selecting port 1 will send data to the device attached

to port 1 on the Modular Smart Switch. The currently selected routing will

be displayed on the main menu.

A. Destination—Used to connect your computer to the required printer,

plotter, modem, or other device (see Section 6.7).

B. File Transfer—Used to connect through to other computers and set the

Modular Smart Switch to file-transfer mode. This option should only be

used to establish links for file-transfer purposes—use the DESTINATION

option for all other applications (see Chapter 8). File transfer is only

available on serial ports.

C. Direct Output—Used to output characters and control codes directly

from your keyboard (see Section 6.8).

D. Functions—Allows you to clear data, form feed the printer or end a long

timeout (see Section 6.9).

E. Options—Used to select the number of copies, timeout period, and the

PC port that the menu is to control (see Section 6.10).

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

6.8 Direct Output of Typed Keyboard Characters

Normal keyboard characters and control characters can be sent to the printer

using the “Direct Output” option. In the keyboard characters box, all

characters typed will be sent directly to the printer except <up>, <down>, and

<escape>. Control characters such as those to set condensed or bold printing

can be specified in hexadecimal ASCII format. In the hexadecimal ASCII

characters box, the specified character is sent when you press <enter>.

ADDER TECHNOLOGY

ADMENU

DESTINATION

FILE TRANSFER

DIRECT OUTPUT

FUNCTIONS

DESTINATION

OPTIONS

ADDER TECHNOLOGY

ADMENU

ENTER

DESTINATION

PORT NUMBER

PORT 1 COM1

<ESC> TO QUIT

DESTINATION

FILE TRANSFER

DIRECT OUTPUT

(1 TO 12)

FUNCTIONS

OPTIONS

DIRECT OUTPUT

KEYBOARD

CHARACTERS

PORT 1 COM1

<ESC> TO QUIT

Figure 6-2. Selecting a Printer.

HEXADECIMAL

• Use <esc> to abort and quit to the main menu, <enter> to confirm.

ASCII CHARACTERS

• Enter the destination (the port on the Modular Smart Switch that is

connected to the required printer, plotter, or modem.

• Valid port identifiers are 1 to 12, depending on how many ports you have

installed.

Figure 6-3. Direct Output Menu.

Use <esc> to quit to the main menu.

NOTE

Characters such as line feeds are displayed using an unusual set of non-

alphanumeric characters.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

When in the functions menu, use the arrows to select END OF FILE and then

press <enter>. The dialog box will respond with an END OF FILE message

for a few seconds. The END OF FILE function can also be used to end long

timeouts.

6.9 Using the Functions Menu

To enter the functions menu, use the <up> and <down> cursor keys on the

main menu to highlight FUNCTIONS, and press <enter>. The functions

menu now allows you to send form feeds, clear unwanted data, and end long

timeouts.

6.10 Setting the Options

To enter the options menu, use the <up> and <down> cursor keys on the

main menu to highlight OPTIONS, and press <enter>. The options menu

now allows you to select multiple copies, change the timeout, and change

the PC port.

ADDER TECHNOLOGY

ADMENU

DESTINATION

FILE TRANSFER

DIRECT OUTPUT

ADDER TECHNOLOGY

ADMENU

FUNCTIONS

OPTIONS

DESTINATION

FILE TRANSFER

DIRECT OUTPUT

FUNCTIONS

PORT 1 COM1

FUNCTIONS

<ESC> TO QUIT

FORM FEED

OPTIONS

CLEAR DATA

END OF FILE

PORT 1 COM1

OPTIONS

<ESC> TO QUIT

COPIES

Figure 6-4. Functions Menu.

Use <esc> to quit to the main menu.

6.9.1 SENDING A FORM FEED

This is a convenient way of causing a printer to take a new page, without

having to go to the printer and press the form-feed button. In the functions

menu, use the <up> and <down> cursor keys to select FORM FEED and then

press <enter>. The dialog box will respond with FORM FEED SENT for a few

seconds.

TIME OUT

PC PORT

Figure 6-5. Options Menu.

Use <esc> to quit to the main menu.

6.10.1 MULTIPLE COPIES

The Modular Smart Switch can generate multiple copies automatically.

Simply select the COPIES option, enter the number of copies required (up to

255) in the entry box and press <enter>. Send the document once, and when

it has timed out (no more data sent for at least 16 seconds or the timeout

period), the Modular Smart Switch will commence printing the extra copies.

The entire document must be less than the buffer memory in the Modular

Smart Switch; otherwise only one copy can be produced.

6.9.2 CLEARING UNWANTED DATA

To delete all the data that has been sent from the current PC port, select the

CLEAR DATA option and press <enter>. A box will appear requesting

confirmation. Type Y if you wish to delete all data, or N or <escape> if you

don’t. This command will not affect any data sent from a different computer.

6.9.3 ENDING LONG OR INFINITE TIMEOUTS

When an infinite (OFF) timeout has been set, an end of file instruction needs

to be sent to the Modular Smart Switch to allow other users to access the

currently selected device. The END OF FILE function can be used to do this.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

6.10.2 CHANGING THE TIMEOUT

7. Serial Port Control Utility

The timeout period can be varied from the default of 16 seconds to any value

between 1 and 255 seconds, or it can be permanently off. To do so, select

the TIMEOUT option and type the required value into the entry box. Press

<enter> to return to the options menu. To return to the default value of

16 seconds, press <escape>.

The control software allows serial ports on IBM compatible PCs to be run at

the high baud rates supported by the Modular Smart Switch. The utility can

be used to control COM1 or COM2 and supports a wide range of protocols.

The time-saving advantages of running serial ports at higher baud rates can

be quite dramatic, and the control software makes sure that the correct

protocol is used regardless of the settings on the application program.

6.10.3 SELECTING A PC PORT

If the correct PC port is not shown on the main menu (G in Figure

6-1), then use the PC PORT option to select this. Highlight the PC PORT

option and type <enter>. Use the <up> and <down> cursor keys to select

the desired port (highlighted) and then press <enter>. The PC port you

have selected will now be displayed.

Although DOS will normally only support baud rates up to 9600, most PCs

are capable of running at much higher speeds of 19,200, 38,400, or 57,600

baud. A number of high-baud-rate utilities are available that act like the

DOS MODE command. But these can be of little practical use, since many

application programs change the baud rate and protocol when they run.

The control software overcomes this problem by preventing application

programs from changing the baud rate or protocol of the serial port being

controlled. This has two major advantages. First, the user does not need to

worry about setting the baud rate and protocol in the application program.

Second, high baud rates can be used for plotting from packages that would

normally only support lower baud rates.

NOTE

The control software defines the routing from the selected port on your

PC—it does not set the port that your software will use for output.

To run the control software, copy the program ADMODE.COM from

the utility disk to a suitable directory on your PC. At the DOS prompt,

type a command in the following format.

ADMODE COMn: baud, parity, databits, stopbits

You only need to include a parameter after baud if it needs to be changed

from the default values shown in Table 7-1. The minimum command syntax

is:

ADMODE COMn: baud

Example

To set serial port 1 (COM1) to 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit,

and no parity, use the following command.

ADMODE COM1:38400,N,8,1 <enter>

High-Baud-Rate Limitations

In practice, almost all modern PCs will support baud rates of 38,400.

However, a number of PCs that we tested were not able to support baud rates

of 57,600 because of the design of their serial ports. If you have problems

with particular PCs, try reducing the baud rate.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

Increasing the baud rate of serial connections reduces the maximum cable

lengths. As a rule of thumb, doubling the baud rate halves the maximum

distance. At 57,600 baud, try to limit the cable lengths to about 50 ft. (15 m).

OR:

b) The Fast Printing Direct to Port option is switched off within Windows 3.1.

This can be found within the CONTROL PANEL

PRINTERS CONNECT window.

If you have problems using the control software, reduce the baud rate. In

practice, 38400 baud is a “safe” setting for most applications.

Table 7-1. Parameter Settings.

Parameter

Options

Entered as

Default

—

1 or 2

COM1:, COM2:

300, 1200, 2400,

baud

300, 1200, 2400,

—

4800, 9600, 19200, 4800, 9600, 19200,

38400, 57600

odd, even, none

7 or 8

38400, 57600

O, E, N

7, 8

parity

data bits

stop bits

1 or 2

1, 2

Using the Control Software with Windows Version 3.1

Windows version 3.1 supports fast printing directly to a port. If you are using

Windows 3.1 and printing to a serial (COM) port, interaction problems can

occur with the control software program if Windows is not set up as detailed

below.

If you are using the control software program to control the baud rate and

protocol of COM1 or COM2 and you are using Windows 3.1, make sure that:

EITHER:

a) The COM port is set up within Windows 3.1 to use the same baud rate and

protocol as that used by the control software. (You can change the COM port

protocol using the Control Panel utility within Windows 3.1. Baud rates of

38400 and 57600 can be selected by typing these values into the baud-rate

selection box.)

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

8. Using the Modular Smart Switch

to Transfer Files

ADDER TECHNOLOGY

ADMENU

DESTINATION

The Modular Smart Switch can be used to transfer files between PCs

FILE TRANSFER

connected to the serial ports. This can be done using standard file-transfer

DIRECT OUTPUT

FUNCTIONS

OPTIONS

software such as Fastlynx, Laplink, ProComm +, or Kermit.

FILE TRANSFER

NOTE

ENTER TARGET

PORT FOR DATA

EXCHANGE

The file-transfer facility can only be used between computers that are

connected to the Modular Smart Switch via an RS-232 or RS-422 serial

link.

PORT 1 COM1

<ESC> TO QUIT

8.1 Transferring Files Between IBM^®Compatible PCs

(1 TO 12)

To transfer files between two PCs connected to the Modular Smart Switch,

follow the steps below.

Figure 8-1. Main Menu.

NOTE

A=The port on the Modular Smart Switch that is connected to the computer

that you wish to exchange files with.

Before you use your Modular Smart Switch to transfer files, make sure

that you have installed the control software on both PCs.

B=The port on your computer that is connected to the Modular Smart

Switch.

1. Activate the control software on the first PC.) You can activate the control

software by using the hotkey combination or by running the program

HOTKEY.COM from the DOS prompt or from within a batch file.)

Select the File Transfer option on the main menu. Enter the serial

port on the Modular Smart Switch that is connected to the second PC.

The main menu will be displayed as shown in Figure 8-1.

C=A flashing arrow to indicate that the Modular Smart Switch is in “file-

transfer mode.”

2. Boot up the file-transfer software on the first PC.

3. Activate the control software on the second PC. Select the File Transfer

option on the main menu. Enter the port on the Modular Smart Switch

that is connected to the first PC.

4. Boot up the file-transfer software on the second PC.

5. Follow the instructions for your file-transfer software.

6. Quit from the file transfer software on both PCs.

When using file-transfer software, make sure that you have selected the

target PC before you boot up your file transfer software. Failing to do this

could cause unwanted data to be sent to your printer/plotter. To make sure

that this does not occur it is advisable to activate the control software and your

file-transfer software from a batch file. This will cause the control software to

appear automatically before you boot your file-transfer software. A suitable

batch file for Kermit would be as follows:

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

REM The next line activates ADMENU

8.4 General Hints and Tips

1. Always use the control software when using file-transfer software:

Many packages such as Laplink Pro will not operate without the

control software installed.

HOTKEY

REM The next line activates the file-transfer software

KERMIT

2. File transfer requires a protocol of 8 bits per character, 1 stop bit, no

parity, and hardware handshaking. When using RS-232 with hardware

handshaking, make sure that pins 4 and 5 are connected on the Modular

Smart Switch end of your computer cable. XON/XOFF handshaking may

also be used, but overall performance is reduced.

8.2 Using the Control Software with File-Transfer Software

The control software supplied with your Modular Smart Switch should be

used together with file transfer software. The control software allows you

to increase the baud rate for all normal printing and plotting operations,

so you can use the higher baud rates that are supported on many file transfer

programs without having to reconfigure the ports on your Modular Smart

Switch. Using higher baud rates will considerably reduce the time taken

to transfer files. For more details on the use of the control software,

see Chapter 7.

3. When using PC-to-PC file transfer, use similar baud rates on both PCs.

For example, combinations of 57600 baud and 38400 baud will be

reliable, whereas combinations of 57600 and 9600 are likely to be

unreliable. If in doubt, use the same baud rate on both PCs. (Similar

baud rates are required because most file-transfer programs do not

support handshaking—they do not allow the rate of data flow to be

controlled.)

8.3 Transferring Data Between PCs Not Compatible with IBM

To transfer files between computers not compatible with IBM, you will need

to send a software command from each computer to make sure that the data

is routed correctly. For maximum compatibility, you are advised to send a

software command with the format shown below (“port” is a port number

from 1 to 12):

The SOFTWARE:SLEEP and TIMEOUT:2 parts of this command are

not strictly necessary for certain types of file transfer. For many file-transfer

programs such as Kermit, it is adequate to send a single connection command

from one of the computers to establish a bidirectional link. For example,

when using Kermit to exchange files between a PC and a Macintosh, sending

the following command from the PC would establish a suitable bidirectional

link.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

9.2 Connect Command

9.2.1 SELECTING A DESTINATION PORT

9. Software Commands

By default, the Modular Smart Switch automatically sends all data to port 1.

To send data to a different port or route back to port 1, use the following

command:

9.1 Introduction

The Modular Smart Switch can be controlled by sending software commands

to it from any computer (serial or parallel). These commands let you change

to switch between ports and give access to some more advanced features of

the Modular Smart Switch. The control software (see Chapter 6) for use with

IBM PCs automatically generates the required software commands. This

section gives the format and purpose of each command.

where “port” represents a port number from 1 to 12.

The new destination will now be used for all subsequent data sent into the

port that gave the command until either a new command is sent, or the

Modular Smart Switch is powered off.

All software commands have the following format:

9.2.2 PRINTING SEVERAL COPIES

If several copies of a document are required, you do not need to send the file

repeatedly. The connect command allows up to 255 copies to be generated

from a single file. The format of the multiple copy command is:

The command must begin with the three characters <PM and end with a

single character >. In the following text, UPPER CASE is used to represent a

keyword, for example, CONNECT. Anything that is in {brackets} is optional.

Text that is in lower case should be replaced by the keyword or option that it

represents.

To print three copies of a file on the printer/plotter attached to port 1, the

command becomes:

For example, the command to connect to channel 2 (serial) would be as

follows:

A string of characters will only be recognized as a command if all the

characters are correct, thus making confusion with normal text extremely

unlikely. Software commands should be sent to the Modular Smart Switch as

a string of ASCII characters. A suitable way of doing this would be to create a

file containing the required command, and “print” it when needed, though

there are many other possibilities such as inserting the required selection

string at the top of a word processor document (refer to your computer

manuals). Users of IBM compatible computers can create batch files that

send software commands (see Section 9.5 for notes on how to create these).

NOTE

The extra copies will not begin to be printed until the Modular Smart

Switch has accepted the whole file into its memory. This is normally

when no further data has been received for the timeout period, which is

initially set to 16 seconds. The timeout may be altered or switched off if

necessary (see Section 9.2.4). Alternatively, an end-of-file command will

tell the Modular Smart Switch that it now has the whole file (see Section

9.4). If the file is too large to fit inside the buffer, then you cannot print

more than one copy.

9.2.3 BROADCASTING DATA TO SEVERAL DEVICES

Items in a software command can be separated by spaces, tabs, line feeds, or

form feeds; however, only one of these may be used between each item. In

the following sections, references to single spaces apply equally to single tabs,

single line feeds, and single form feeds.

To set the Modular Smart Switch to broadcast data to several ports

simultaneously, use the CONNECT command and specify a list of ports that

the data is to be sent to (up to 4 in total). Separate the port numbers with a

space. The multiple copy CONNECT command can also be repeated in this

way. For example, to print two copies on port 3 and one copy on port 1 of

every file sent from the computer, issue the following command:

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9.2.4 VARYING THE TIMEOUT PERIOD

The timeout sets the length of time that the output port remains dedicated

to the input port once the incoming data has ceased. It can be set to any

number of seconds between 1 and 255, or it can be switched off. With the

timeout off, the output channel remains constantly dedicated to the input

channel until an end of file command (see Section 9.4), or a new connect

command is sent. The timeout remains as set until it is changed again,

or the Modular Smart Switch is powered off.

9.2.6 REMOVING LINE FEEDS AT END OF SOFTWARE COMMANDS

When programming applications such as DBASE to automatically send data to

a specific printer, you might want to remove linefeed and carriage-return

characters that are automatically inserted by the application at the end of the

software command. To do this, add an “ignore” instruction to the software

command as follows:

To change the timeout, a connect command is sent with the timeout

option specified after the required destination port, as follows:

When the Modular Smart Switch receives such an instruction, it will delete

the line feed (CR or LF or both) following the software command.

The timeout value is either a number 1 to 255 or the word OFF.

For example, if a computer requires uninterrupted use of the printer

connected to port 1 until further notice, the command below would be sent:

9.3 Clear Command

The clear command allows a computer to delete any data that has been sent

into the Modular Smart Switch that has not yet been printed. As with all

software commands, this only affects the data from the computer that sends

the command. The format is:

9.2.5 DISABLING SOFTWARE COMMANDS

When communicating with another computer using a file-transfer protocol

such as that used by Laplink or Xmodem, you can temporarily turn off the

command interpretation while files are being transferred. This is because

some of these protocols expect a checksum character to be sent back as an

acknowledgement after a block of data has been sent. If this character

happens to be the start character (<) of a software command, a delay can

occur that may cause the transfer software to time out. To make sure that

this does not happen, you can set the Modular Smart Switch to ignore

software commands during file transfer. To do this, use the “software sleep”

command. Once a “software sleep” command has been sent, the Modular

Smart Switch will not interpret new commands until the data transfer has

timed out. This will occur after no data has been sent for the timeout period.

To set “software sleep” mode, send the following command:

9.4 End-of-File Command

Sending the end-of-file command terminates the present input file. It is used

when the timeout option has been set “off,” since it will allow other

computers access to the printer. If multiple copies are required, the end-of-

file command indicates the end of the document. A new command will also

automatically terminate the present input file. The format used for the end-

of-file command is as follows:

9.5 Creating Batch Files to Send Commands (IBM Compatible PCs)

On IBM compatible PCs, batch files are a convenient way to send commonly

used software commands. To create batch files, proceed as follows:

To restore normal software command interpretation, send the following

command when the data has timed out.

At the DOS prompt, type:

COPY CON: {name}.TXT [enter]

<PM CONNECT {channel number} >[function key 6]

Software command interpretation can also be permanently disabled using

the following command. Once this command has been issued, no software

commands will be interpreted until the Modular Smart Switch has been reset

(by switching the power off).

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

9.6 Sending Default Start-of-Day Destination Ports

At the start of each day, each port will be routed through to port 1. However,

for IBM compatible PCs, individual start-of-day destinations can be set for

each computer. To do this, create a text file containing the desired selection

command (see Section 9.5) and modify your AUTOEXEC.BAT file to send

this command when your computer powers on. For example, by including

the line “TYPE CONNECT2.TXT>COM1:” in your PC’s AUTOEXEC.BAT file

(after copying CONNECT2.TXT from the utility software disk to a suitable

directory on your PC), you can set the start-of-day default port for your

computer to be number 2.

Where {name} is the name of the batch file that you are going to create and

{channel number} is the number of the port that you are going to connect to.

For example:

COPY CON: CONNECT2.TXT [enter]

<PM CONNECT 2>[function key 6][enter]

No spaces should be typed after the close angle bracket and before the

function key 6 is pressed. When function key 6 has been pressed, a ^Z will

appear on the screen at the end of the line. When the enter key is pressed,

the screen will display:

1 File(s) copied

This indicates that a file {name}.TXT has been created that contains the

software command text. It is not normally possible to use a word processor to

create this file, since most word processors insert a line feed and carriage

return at the end of each line. A file created with these extra characters could

upset your printouts by inserting a blank line at the top of your printout page.

This could cause laser printers to output a blank page and label printers to be

offset by one line.

At the DOS prompt, type:

COPY CON: {name}.BAT [enter]

TYPE {name}.TXT > {pc printer port}: [function key 6] [enter]

Where {name} is the name of the batch file that you are going to create and

{pc printer port} is the port that you wish to be routed to the required

printer—COM1, COM2, LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3. For example:

COPY CON: CONNECT2.BAT [enter]

TYPE CONNECT2.TXT>COM1: [function key 6][enter]

As before, the screen will display “1 File(s) copied,” which indicates that a

batch file {name}.BAT has been created containing the text “TYPE

{name}.TXT>{pc printer port}:.”

To send the software command that you have created in {name}.TXT, type

the batch file name at the DOS prompt. The above procedure can be used to

create a batch file to send any software command to any of your PC’s ports.

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10.4 Problems Interfacing Serial Devices

10. Troubleshooting

Most problems experienced with connecting serial devices are caused by

incorrect cabling or incorrect handshake/protocol settings. Do not assume

that, because a cable has the correct connectors and works between two other

devices, it will work when connected to the Modular Smart Switch. Always use

the cabling specified in this manual (see Appendixes A and B). Incorrect

cabling may cause many different problems, such as:

The Modular Smart Switch is designed to a high standard and all units are

fully tested before leaving the factory. There are no user-serviceable parts.

If a fault persists, please contact technical support.

10.1 Self-Test at Power-On

• No data transmission

The Modular Smart Switch automatically tests its basic operation when it

powers on. The buffer indicators flash for a few seconds while the test is

being conducted and go out when the test has passed. If the buffer indicators

do not flash or do not go out, then there may be a problem—consult

technical support.

• Loss of data, corrupted prints and plots

• Unreliable file transfer

10.5 Serial Interfaces—No Data Transmitted through the Switch

Check that you can send data between your devices using a direct connection.

If you can’t, check your devices. If you can, connect the Modular Smart

Switch and try sending a small amount of test data.

10.2 Parallel Interfaces—No Data Transmitted through the Switch

If you have problems transmitting data through the switch using parallel

interfaces, make sure that the direction (input or output) has been set

correctly—see Section 4.2. If you have any problems in transmitting to

parallel ports, do not use the automatic in/out detection setting, because

this is not guaranteed to work with all printers.

If the input channel indicator comes on, then no data is being sent into the

switch—check the cable between your PC and the Modular Smart Switch, and

check that you are sending the data from the correct port on your computer.

The channel indicators show whether data is being routed correctly from

one port to another.

If the channel indicator flickers or comes on, then data is being transferred

into the Modular Smart Switch.

If no data appears to be transmitted out from the Modular Smart Switch,

then check the cable between the switch and your output device.

10.3 Parallel Interfaces—Corrupted, Extra, or Lost Data

Problems with corrupted data when using parallel communication are rare.

When problems do arise, they are mostly cabling problems. Avoid using

ribbon cables. Use shielded cables and keep the length to 22.9 ft. (7 m)

or less where possible. Problem cables can cause occasional data corruption

and spurious page feeds on laser printers.

If the channel indicators go out after the timeout period (usually 16

seconds), then all the data has been sent out of the switch. If nothing appears

to have been received on your output device, then check the protocol (a

protocol problem often causes the data to be changed into a stream of null

characters).

10.6 Serial Interfaces—Corrupted Data

The most common cause of corrupted data when using serial interfaces is a

handshake problem. If you experience corrupted data when using serial

ports, check that the protocols set on your equipment are the same as those

set on the Modular Smart Switch. If you are using hardware handshake,

check that the hardware flow-control lines are connected on your cable.

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10.7 Merged Printouts

If the output from one computer has been printed in the middle of that from

another, you will probably need to increase the timeout period. When no

data has been sent from one computer for the timeout period (by default

16 seconds), the Modular Smart Switch will allow another computer to start

printing. To change the timeout period, use the control software (see Section

6.10.2) or send a software command (see Section 9.2.4). The default timeout

period is set using the option switches on the main board (see Section 4.1).

MODULAR SMART SWITCH

Appendix A: Serial Ports

A.1 RS-232 and RS-422 Pin Assignments

The serial ports on the Modular Smart Switch use DB25 connectors. The

following table lists RS-232 and RS-422 pin assignments and signal

descriptions. Those pins not appearing in the table are not used.

Table A-1. DB25 Serial Pinouts.

10.8 Print Data Transmitted but File Transfer Fails

If you can print normally using your PC’s serial port but file transfer fails,

check the following:

Pin Description

RS-232 RS-422 In/Out

Protective ground (shield)

EARTH

TXD

EARTH

—

• Make sure that the control software is installed.

• Make sure that the protocol is set to 8 bits, 1 stop bit, no parity.

Transmitted data (data out)

Received data

Output

Input

Output

Input

• For hardware handshake, make sure that pins 4 and 5 are connected

on the Modular Smart Switch end of the computer serial cable.

RXD

RTS

Request to send—Always held HIGH

Clear to send—flow control in

(hardware handshake)

CTS

Signal ground

GND

DTR

—

Data terminal ready—flow control out

(hardware handshake)

Output

Flow control out (-ve)—hardware

handshake

HSOUT - Output

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

Table A-1 (continued). DB25 Serial Pinouts.

IBM PC end

25-Pin socket connector

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

Pin Description

RS-232 RS-422 In/Out

RXD

Flow control out (+ve)—hardware

HSOUT + Output

handshake

TXD

Received data (-ve)

Received data (+ve)

Transmit data (-ve)

RXD -

RXD +

TXD -

HSIN -

Input

Output

Input

DTR

GND

CTS

Flow control in (-ve)—hardware

handshake

Flow control in (+ve)—hardware

handshake

HSIN +

TXD +

Input

Figure A-1. IBM PC/XT Serial Cable Pinning.

If you already have a cable that works directly between your IBM PC and

serial printer, it may be suitable for use as the input cable to your Modular

Smart Switch.

Transmit data (+ve)

Output

A.2.2 RS-232 CONNECTIONS TO IBM AT AND COMPATIBLES

A.2 Connecting to Computers—RS-232 Connections

The IBM AT and compatibles provide a DB9 connector for the serial port.

The cable required to connect to the Modular Smart Switch is wired as shown

in Figure A-2.

RS-232 serial ports on computers tend to vary considerably. The standard

recommends a DB25 connector, but some machines, such as the IBM AT and

compatibles, use a DB9 connector. Computer ports intended for connection

to a modem are not configured like those intended for connection to a serial

printer. Because of all these variables, a “standard” RS-232 cable does not

exist.

NOTE

You might need to refer to the documentation supplied with your

computer to establish the type of cable required. The following

specifications may help you decide on the required cable.

A.2.1 RS-232 CONNECTIONS TO IBM PCS AND COMPATIBLES

The IBM PC and its compatibles provide a parallel port and (usually) an RS-

232 serial port. Both use a DB25 connector. However, the parallel port is

normally a socket (female) connector, and the serial port is normally a plug

(male) connector. The cable wiring required for connection to a serial port

on the Modular Smart Switch is shown in Figure A-1.

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A.4 Connecting to Modems

The cable shown in Figure A-4 can be used to connect to most standard

modems. Do not connect additional lines.

IBM AT end

9-Pin socket connector

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

TXD

RXD

Modem end

25-pin plug connector

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

Printer end

GND

DTR

CTS

Figure A-2. IBM AT Serial Cable Pinning.

A.3 Connecting to Printers

Most serial printers provide a standard DB25 connector for serial data. The

required cable wiring is shown in Figure A-3. This wiring configuration is

suitable for many popular printers such as HP LaserJet , QMS, Brother ,

Figure A-4. Cable Pinout for Modems.

and Epson (with serial-port card).

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

Printer end

25-pin plug connector

TXD

RXD

CTS

DTR

GND

Figure A-3. Cable Pinout for Serial Printers.

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A.5 Connecting to Plotters

A wide range of different pin configurations are used on plotter serial ports.

The following cable can be used for most plotters including those

manufactured by Hewlett Packard and Roland. Notable exceptions are

Calcomp plotters, which need a “straight-through” cable shown in Figure

A-4. If you have a cable that currently works between your PC and plotter,

then this can be used between the Modular Smart Switch and your plotter

with the addition of an adapter.

MODULAR SMART SWITCH

A.6 Connecting to NEC Spinwriter

The NEC Spinwriter series of printers also provide a DB25 socket connector

for serial data. However, their “printer ready” flow-control signal is output on

pin 19 (unlike most printers, which output this signal on pin 20). Suitable

wiring is as shown in Figure A-6.

NEC Spinwriter end

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

NEC Spin Writer end

25-pin plug connector

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

Plotter end

25-pin plug connector

TXD

RXD

CTS

DTR

GND

Figure A-6. NEC SpinWriter Serial Cable.

Figure A-5. Plotter Cable Adapters.

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A.7 Connecting to DEC™ LN03 Laser Printer

A.8 RS-422 Cables

The LN03 outputs its “printer ready” signal via pin 11, and so the wiring for

the serial data cable is slightly different from those shown earlier. Switch

bank 2, switch number 6, on the LN03 should be set to ON. This ensures that

the “printer ready” signal is HIGH when ready and LOW when not ready, and

not vice versa.

The pins and connector types used for RS-422 communication vary widely

between devices. Standard cables therefore do not exist. Connect the cable

as shown in Figure A-8. For systems using XON/XOFF handshaking, only

RXD +, RXD -, TXD +, and TXD - need to be connected.

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

Communicating

device

Modular Smart Switch end

25-Pin socket connector

DEC LN03 end

25-Pin plug connector

HSOUT-

-ve

+ve

-ve

+ve

-ve

+ve

-ve

+ve

Flow control

HSOUT+ 10

RXD- 11

RXD+ 12

HSIN- 15

HSIN+ 16

TXD- 13

TXD+ 25

Transmitted

data out

Flow control

out

Received

data in

Figure A-7. DEC LN03 Serial Cable Pinning.

Figure A-8. RS-422 Cable Pinouts.

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Table B-1. DB25 Parallel Connector Pinouts.

Appendix B: Parallel Ports

Name

Input from Computer Output to Printer

B.1 Parallel Pin Assignments

Each parallel port uses a DB25 socket connector, similar to the one on an

IBM PC, PC/XT, or AT. Figure B-1 shows the pin numbers as viewed from

the rear of the Modular Smart Switch.

STROBE

INPUT

OUTPUT

2-9

DATA 0 to 7

ACKNOWLEDGE

BUSY

INPUT

OUTPUT

no connection

INPUT

OUTPUT

PAPER END

SELECT

OUTPUT low

OUTPUT high

no connection

OUTPUT high

no connection

ground

no connection

OUTPUT high

OUTPUT low

ground

AUTOFEED XT

ERROR

Figure B-1. DB25 Parallel Connector.

INIT

SELECT IN

SIGNAL GROUND

18-25

The cables need to have a DB25 connector for connecting to the Modular

Smart Switch. If possible, the length should be kept below 22.9 ft. (7 m) to

reduce interference.

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MODULAR SMART SWITCH

B.2 Cable for IBM PC, PC/XT, AT, or Compatible

Parallel cables to connect from IBM compatibles to the Modular Smart Switch

require a 25-pin plug on both ends. All lines should be connected “straight-

through” (that is, 1 to 1, 2 to 2, etc.).

B.3 Cable to 36-Pin Amphenol Connector

A standard IBM Centronics cable with a DB25 plug and a 36-pin Centronics

plug is sufficient.

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