Accessing an IQ Network Remotely Using a Modem
Modems are a part of almost everyone's
life. Chances are you are using one now to look at this web page.
Modems can be used to control IQ Networks from any remote location
with a good data connection. Here's how...
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Modem Benefits
What does a modem have to do with audio? It can be
a very important part of your system if it is under IQ Network control.
Modems are the way we connect computers over phone lines. The IQ Network
uses a computer for setup, monitoring, control, and diagnostics. If
you and your computer are not anywhere near the audio system, then
modems may be the only effective way of connecting you and your system. |
Modem Connections to IQ
There are two methods that can be used to connect
to an IQ Network using modems. The method you use will depend on
nature of the application.
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| PC to PC |
In many systems
the PC remains connected to the IQ Network Interface at all times.
In this case the remote PC uses its modem and third-party remote control
software to call the host PC. The host PC (connected to the IQ Network)
must have a modem and host modem software that can answer the incoming
call from your remote PC. The remote PC is then used as a terminal
to the host PC. From the remote PC you can "take over" the
host PC and run the IQ software to access the IQ Network components.
The benefit of this type connection is that a host PC can be connected
to the IQ Network at all times. Also, connection of the host PC to
the IQ Network is not limited by the modem connection to the remote
PC. Another benefit is security. Modem software for remote connection
often includes password security options that would restrict unauthorized
users to dial in. Popular third-party remote control software packages
include ReachOut, CloseUp, and PCAnywhere. The most significant restriction
to this method is the requirement to have a PC always connected on
site, equipped with a modem and the supporting software.
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| PC
to IQ Direct |
Once an IQ
System is initially configured, the PC becomes optional. Often this
means that a laptop PC is used for initial configuration, then is
removed. System operation then relies on IQ automation and distributed
intelligence for day to day use. For any number of reasons you may,
from time to time, need to access the system remotely. If there is
no PC on site, the alternative is to dedicate a modem and a phone
line to the IQ Network for remote access. IQ for Windows software offers
support for direct modem connection. On your remote PC, run the IQ
software and use its remote modem feature to call the phone number
of the remote modem. The benefits of this method are that you do not
need to invest in a dedicated PC at the remote site or the modem software
required by a PC to PC connection. Connection speed is limited to
the highest interface baud which is lower than the lowest modem baud
used by either modem. In most cases we recommend running at 9600 baud.
Even at this reduced speed, however, the effective speed is much higher
at the remote PC because the IQ software is running on the remote
PC. All of the newer interfaces available today includes support for
direct modem connection, however older units and other types of IQ
interfaces may not support direct modem connection. If you have an
existing system and wish to upgrade your interface for direct modem
support contact IQ support. |
Configuring PC to PC Connections
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| Host PC to
Interface |
The standard
RS-232 connections are used between the PC and the interface. |
| Host PC
Software |
Any IQ software
compatible with the system's components may be used. The host PC must
be running remote control software (described above) and must
have a modem with a phone line connection. |
| Modems |
Any modems may
be used, although the faster the modems, the better the screen display
at the remote PC. |
| Remote PC
Software |
The remote PC
does not need to have the IQ software. It must run compatible remote
modem software with a modem and telephone connection. |
Configuring PC to IQ Direct Connections
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| Remote PC
Software |
The remote PC
must have IQ for Windows installed. |
| Modems |
Modems should
operate at 14,400 baud or higher and the host modem must be external
to the PC and capable of auto-answer. |
| Host Modem
To Interface |
The host modem
is connected to the IQ Network Interface by RS-232. Most external modems
offer a 25-pin RS-232 port. The wiring method depends on the whether
the interface has a 25-pin or 9-pin RS-232 connector. If it has a
25-pin connector, use a standard null-modem cable. If the interface
has a 9-pin RS-232 connector, special wiring is required for proper
operation. See the diagram below: |
9-Pin Interface to Modem RS-232 Wiring
Diagram
Note: Because IQ interfaces with 9-pin ports automatically
detect RS-422, pins 4, 6, 7, and 8 should be physically removed from one
male connector on the standard 9-pin to 9-pin RS-232 cable.
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