Wireless connection

JimmyJ1

What I want to do is load the software on a notepad, and use a wireless router so that I can walk around the building and dial in each zone on the 1260. Has anyone done this that can tell me exactly how to do it? What router will accept a null modem cable??
Thanks, Jimmy.

Gadget

Hi,
This is older, and deals with a 260, but the process should work with a 1200 series..
Gadget

http://www.driverack.com/drug/view_thre ... d_id=40451

Dennis

Another option is a serial to ethernet converter (as well as a wireless router)

Dennis

JimmyJ1

Dennis wrote:

Another option is a serial to ethernet converter (as well as a wireless router)

Dennis

Can you explain how that is set up? I have not used these things in the past, so I need explicit info.

Dennis

JimmyJ1 wrote:

Can you explain how that is set up? I have not used these things in the past, so I need explicit info.

ZonePro serial connector to converter serial connector.
Converter ethernet connector to wireless router ethernet port (NOT internet WAN port)
Connect to router wirelessly with computer.

Google "serial to ethernet" for a gazillion converter options.
My consumer level wireless router of choice is an Apple Airport Extreme.

Dennis

JimmyJ1

I read somewhere that not all serial/ethernet converters work well with the Zonepro. Can we just use the ethernet jack and go straight to a router?

Dennis

JimmyJ1 wrote:

I read somewhere that not all serial/ethernet converters work well with the Zonepro. Can we just use the ethernet jack and go straight to a router?

I would have to double check but I think the ethernet jack is just for linking multiple ZonePros...not for talking to your computer.

Dennis

Gadget

I would have to double check but I think the ethernet jack is just for linking multiple ZonePros...not for talking to your computer.

Dennis is correct as usual...

JimmyJ1

Hmmmm, I have used only the ethernet connection on the last 2 installs. Would an adapter work such as this one?
http://www.compusa.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2272642&CatId=3

Dennis

JimmyJ1 wrote:

Hmmmm, I have used only the ethernet connection on the last 2 installs. Would an adapter work such as this one?
http://www.compusa.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2272642&CatId=3

I assumed you were using the ZonePro Designer GUI with a laptop...I thought the ethernet connector that was below the serial connector was for Crestron control (or similar) which is above my pay grade.

Dennis

JimmyJ1

Yes, I am using a laptop to the ethernet jack. I am wanting to use the serial jack. Can you recommend an adapter? I found that cheap adapter but shouldn't it have something to it more than just wiring the two plaugs together?

Dennis

JimmyJ1 wrote:

Yes, I am using a laptop to the ethernet jack. I am wanting to use the serial jack. Can you recommend an adapter? I found that cheap adapter but shouldn't it have something to it more than just wiring the two plaugs together?

I just gotta answer a question with a question....if you are successfully controlling the ZonePro with your laptop through the ethernet connector, why do you want to take several steps backward and use the serial connector??

JimmyJ1

My rep told me the serial port was a better connection for some reason. ?? Don't know why they don't put in a USB2.
No one else using a wireless setup?

Dennis

JimmyJ1 wrote:

My rep told me the serial port was a better connection for some reason. ?? Don't know why they don't put in a USB2.
No one else using a wireless setup?

I just took the time to RTFM and sure enough, the ethernet connector below the serial connector is for computer control of the unit. All that you need is a wireless router which you connect to the ZonePro and you should be in business. You don't need the serial connector or a serial to ethernet adapter. FYI the serial/ethernet adapters I am talking about are in the $75 - $150 range and have active electronics. This is the unit I am using:
http://us.startech.com/product/NETRS232 ... et-Adapter

Dennis