Issue
Can Sigma system controllers sit on multiple VLANs?Can Sigma system controllers operate across multiple VLANs?
Product Line
Satchwell BAS & Sigma
Environment
Sigma UNC controllers
Cause
This is a common question raised by IT departments when planning to upgrade BAS systems to Sigma.
Resolution
Yes, Sigma controllers can be deployed across multiple VLANs. However, there are important considerations to ensure proper communication between devices:
1. Global Data Communication
- Sigma global data is transmitted using the Ethernet broadcast address.
- Most routers block broadcast messages between VLANs.
- To enable global data exchange across VLANs, Link Addressing must be configured.
2. Link Addressing Requirements
- Link Addressing acts as a tunneling mechanism to allow broadcast data to traverse VLAN routers.
- A DNN (Data Network Node) must be added to each sub-LAN to support Link Addressing.
- For detailed configuration steps, refer to Link Addressing on a Sigma System
3. Default Gateway Configuration
All Sigma devices must be configured with appropriate default gateway IP addresses:
-
Controllers:
Use the Pocket Terminal command:GW + 192.168.0.1(Replace
192.168.0.1with the actual default gateway of the local network.) -
DNNs:
Set a Static Route as defined in the article:
"Having set Link Addressing in a Sigma DNN3 can no longer communicate..." -
Sigma Servers:
Set the default gateway via:Network Settings > Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) > Properties
Recommendation
While Sigma controllers can operate across VLANs, a flat VLAN architecture is generally simpler to configure and maintain. Use multiple VLANs only when necessary and ensure all Link Addressing and gateway configurations are correctly implemented.
