Rockwell Automation 57C650 AutoMax Programming Executive Version 3.8 - Manual (Page 167)

12Ć5 On Line Menu: Connect
12.5 Connecting to a Network or a Local Rack
You can communicate with an AutoMax rack by using either an
RSĆ232 serial connection to a Processor in the rack or by using a PC
Link module (M/N 57C445). You can choose which one of these
methods you want to use for communication to AutoMax racks (see
section 5.5.3 for instructions).
When using a serial connection, communication between the
personal computer running the AutoMax Executive software and a
given rack in the system can take place either directly with the local
rack or over a network through the Network Communication module
(M/N 57C404A). The default status is direct communication with the
rack that is physically connected to the personal computer. See
12.5.1 and 12.5.2 for more information on direct and network
communication.
When using a PC Link module, communication can be established
with any rack on the network through the coaxial cable that is used
by the network. Direct communication with the local rack is not an
option when using the PC Link module. See 12.5.2 for more
information on network communication.
Note that you do not need to establish a network connection through
the ON LINE menu to load an operating system over a network. The
loading procedure is always performed through the Commands
menu in the System Configurator.
12.5.1 Direct Communication with the Local Rack
Selecting D" for Direct" from the ON LINE CONNECT menu will
cause the Executive software to send all communication to the rack
to which the personal computer is directly connected. The word
direct" will be visible on the top line of most ON LINE menu screens.
Direct connection is the default status.
12.5.2 Network Communication
Selecting N" for Network" from the ON LINE CONNECT menu will
cause the Executive software to send all communication to the
network rack (drop) specified. Until you change the type of
connection, either by using N" for Network" to connect to another
network rack or by using D" for Direct," all communication will take
place with the specified rack.
If you are using a PC Link module, the Executive software will display
the screen shown in figure 12.3. You can skip to the description that
follows figure 12.3.
If you are using serial communication, the Executive software will
display the screen shown in figure 12.2.