The Remote Serial Communications (RSC) system is a communication package that allows RS232 serial communications to be transported over modern communications networks. The system uses the power of the IP network to provide access to remote serial devices as well as a reliable end-to-end serial communication path between two serial ports.

Many software applications have been written to communicate with serial devices that are directly connected to the computer's COM ports. These devices are sometimes moved to remote locations where, due to distance limitations can no longer be directly connected to their servers.

In order to enable these applications to communicate with serial devices across an IP network infrastructure, a solution, which is seamless to both the application and device, is required.

The RSC communications system uses industry standard IP protocols to address these requirements in two major ways. The system allows telnet access to the remote serial ports for remote access and monitoring. The client / server configuration brokers an IP communication path between two serial ports and provides a reliable end to end communication path between the applications software and the target serial device.

On the surface, RSC is a general purpose Serial to Ethernet / TCP/IP conversion device… Indeed RSC converts Glenayre and other serial ports to standardized IP sockets which allows fast and efficient communications on a local or remote basis... but RSC goes way beyond the Serial to IP Conversion:
 

Feature: Multiple simultaneous connections.
Benefit: Two or more users can simultaneously access the Glenayre serial port. This allows sharing and multiple access point to the previous Glenayre resources.

Applications include TNPP / TAP / Computer Interface over the internet as well as remote and local sharing of Printer and Operator ports. 
 

Feature: Operates as a client or server
Benefit: Connections can be “nailed” to a point to point communications path or connected as needed using the industry standard “Telnet” protocol. Each port can be defined as a client or server.

• RSC can act as a TNPP Gateway. Provides TNPP over the Internet functionality.
   
• RSC can act as a TAP Gateway. Provides TAP over the Internet functionality.
   
• RSC can automatically connect and maintain reliable connections to a local or remote printer or dumb terminals.
   
• RSC is compatible with other industry gateways to expand and add flexibility.

 

Feature: Data Logging
Benefit: RSC can be set to automatically log all transactions to individual serial port(s). Never miss important alarms or system crash information.

 

Feature: Data Line Monitor
Benefit: RSC incorporates a data line monitor and debug tool. The system can monitor and log serial port and IP activity. Check boxes are included to enable monitoring of one or more serial ports. Data types to be included are selected by checking the Serial Events, Socket Events and Serial Data options. There are also options to add time stamps and log trace information to a log file.

 

Example Applications

TNPP over IP / Internet: The RSC System is a great solution for network connections to remote paging systems. TNPP over the Internet provides a cost effective and reliable alternative to expensive dedicated facilities.

The multiple concurrent connections feature allows technicians to monitor the data without affecting the TNPP traffic. This can be a handy tool while troubleshooting data communications problems.

Operator Ports: The RSC System excels at for providing local and remote access to paging systems. The operator can use a cheap PC or an existing computer to replace the Glenayre's old and expensive "dumb terminal" for CN00 access. Using RSC, all CN00 activity can be recorded to a log file that can provide invaluable information during error conditions and system crashes.

The multiple concurrent connections capability allows multiple employees to participate in the system menus and connections. This creates a virtual training classroom from any location(s). This feature can also be extremely useful as fast and convenient system access is required to minimize customer outages.

Gone are the days of having to fight modem errors and long distance access  issues associated with dedicated telephone / modem lines. With RSC any authorized user can quickly access system with an efficient reliable connection Solving customer service or system related issues are as close as a pc (telnet client, command prompt, many cell phones, pda's, etc.).

Another side benefit of RSC is that the system will generally require less opera ports. Users find that they no longer need a dedicated dumb terminal on their workstation. Operators prefer accessing the Glenayre from a scalable window their existing pc. With RSC, users can handle service calls from any pc in the world. With a common pool of access ports more operators can share a given group of Glenayre ports. Each RSC port is configurable with a timeout so ports with no activity are release back to the pool for access to a larger number of users. The multiple concurrent connections capability allow senior staff to train and monitor transactions in real time.

 

Printer Logs and Reports: The RSC System was designed to reduce cost an increase system reliability. Connecting printer ports to RSC ensures that this valuable information is accessible. Often printers run out of paper or get locked up in error conditions. RSC provides an invaluable service by allowing users to monitor and log all error transactions. An intermittent problem can easily be pinpointed by searching through electronic copies of the printer log. This is a sharp contrast to digging through boxes of old printouts.

 

TAP over IP / Internet: TAP over IP and connections over the Internet are excellent alternatives to expensive dialup and dedicated TAP facilities. RSC connections are much more reliable and efficient and provide many cost saving alternatives. RSC can also be used with simple applications to replace a dedicated paging system at strategic customer sites (such as a hospital or large customer).

 

System Architecture

Vision