To successfully connect an ARW-VESP211 to an FX-2000 Fire Alarm Control Panel using OpenGN, follow these steps, referencing the Mircom FX-2000 Series Addressable Fire Alarm Control Panels Instruction Manual for detailed guidance.
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Required Components: You'll need the following:
- ARW-VESP211 Advantech Serial to Ethernet Converter
- Advantech software CD
- Ethernet cable (maximum 300’)
- 9-pin male to female serial cable
- OpenGN version 3.3 or later
- OpenGN Gateway version 3.3 or later
- OpenGN license key
- FX-2000 Config Utility version 2.3.30 or later
- FX-2000 Fire Alarm Control Panel with firmware version 2.14 or later
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Physical Connections: Perform these steps:
- Connect the 9-pin serial cable from the COM port on the ARW-VESP211 to the RS-232 port on the FX-2000.
- Use an Ethernet cable to connect the LAN port on the ARW-VESP211 to the computer running the OpenGN Gateway.
- Connect the ARW-VESP211 to a power source.
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Configuration Settings: Configure these settings:
- On the OpenGN Gateway computer, assign a static IP address (e.g., IP address: 169.254.102.40, Subnet mask: 255.255.0.0).
- Install the Vlinx Serial Server Manager from the Advantech CD on the OpenGN Gateway computer.
- Configure the ARW-VESP211 with an IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and network settings that match those of the OpenGN Gateway computer.
- Set the ARW-VESP211 to use the TCP protocol, set the port number, configure serial settings, and save your changes.
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Configuration Export and Import:
- Use the FX-2000 Config Utility to open the FX-2000 panel job, enable settings, and send the job to the panel.
- Export the job file as an XML file and transfer it to the computer running OpenGN.
- Import the XML configuration file into OpenGN by selecting the job file, importing it, and updating the stored version when prompted.
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Final Setup in OpenGN Gateway:
- Configure the OpenGN Gateway, including setting up the adapter configuration with the destination IP address, port, and command connection details.
- Enable auto-start settings.
- Verify the connection by checking the adapter status in the OpenGN Gateway interface. This ensures the ARW-VESP211 and FX-2000 panel are communicating correctly via OpenGN for monitoring and control.