Issue
Step by step instructions for installing and configuring a Loytec NIC852 dongle, also known as an Orion Stack.
Environment
- Vista LNS Network
- Echelon LonMaker
Cause
A single Vista server can handle communications to about four "average" sized LNS Networks. Very large networks or many LNS ports in a single server may result in a degradation of communication reliability. An Orion Stack changes the way Vista communicates with the LNS Server and allows up to 28 LNS Ports to be added.
Resolution
NOTE: If LonWorks Interfaces was previously configured as your Network Interface you must delete the computers IP address from the IP-852 tab before you continue.
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Insert NIC852 Dongle into USB slot on Front-End computer. This dongle must be plugged in at all times for the Orion Stack to work.
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Use the Loytec CD to install the necessary software to use the dongle such as hardware drivers and the LConfig interface
- Make sure that the latest drivers are installed for the NIC Interface. The latest drivers can be found at: http://www.loytec.com/index.php?option=com_docman&task=cat_view&gid=116&Itemid=25
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When properly installed, the Loytec symbol should appear on the bottom right corner of the Windows Toolbar.
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Right-clicking on the symbol will allow you to easily access the LConfig interface. Click on LConfig to configure the NIC852 (Orion Stack)
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Using the LConfig interface, navigate to the NIC852 tab and check the box next to enable the device. The transceiver should most likely be set to IP-10L and the number of LNS Applications should be selected (aka, the number of LNS databases)
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Click CNIP configuration to set up the IP addresses for the Device (aka..The Front-End Computer IP address) and the Config. Server’s IP address.
* Don’t forget to enter the Device Name (aka Computer Name). Click “Ok” twice and the device should be configured. Test it before closing out.
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With the NIC852 configured, open Lonmaker and open the first drawing directory with “Show all network options dialogs” checked.
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When the Network opens, click ‘Next’ to configure the Network Interface. Check the box next to ‘Network Attached’ and select the first NIC_852 entry. Click next to let the network configure. Go through the rest of the windows by clicking ‘Next”, save the drawing, and exit.
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The network interface for each LNS can also be chosen by going to Lonmaker > Network Properties in the Visio drawing and utilizing the Network Interface tab.
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Next, set the Communication Port for the TAC Network to look for a Loytec device. To do, this open ‘TAC Vista System Plug-In’ which can be found at Lonmaker > System Plug-in > TAC Vista System Plug-In. In this window, right-click the Network (top of the controller tree under the TAC Network) and click “Settings.”
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When the ‘TAC Network Settings’ window opens, under the Network tab select “Communication Port-Loytec” and click OK. The TAC Network will have to be updated after this.
- Repeat Steps 6-10 for each LNS database. Remember to select a different Network Interface each time.
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After configuring the NIC for each LNS Database. The Orion Stack should be properly setup.
* Note: It is a good idea to note that an Orion Stack is installed on the main graphics page for the site to keep other potential users informed, like remote support engineers.
