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CTI 2572 Installation and Operation Guide
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3.3. Serial Port Operation
The 2572 serial ports provide a method for configuring the module, performing diagnostic
operations, and accessing the PLC memory. The 2572 module has a Transmit LED and a Receive
LED for each port. When a signal is received at the port, the Receive LED will light. When a signal
is transmitted from the port, the Transmit LED will light. When the port is in use, the LED’s should
appear to flicker.
NOTE:
The serial ports compete with the network port for access to the PLC and module resources. Heavy
use of the serial ports will slow down network access. To maximize network performance, avoid
using the serial ports for sustained PLC monitoring activity. Instead, consider installing a CTI 2573
module to attach the operator interface devices.
3.4. Serial Redirect Operation
The Serial Redirect function allows you to redirect PLC commands arriving at a 2572 serial port to
another PLC located on the network. Using this feature you can use most PLC programming
programs and operator interfaces (such as the CTI 5251) to perform remote programming and data
access.
To redirect the serial port, you must execute a program named IPRDIR.EXE. This program is
located on the 2572 Utilities diskette included with your module. The diskette also contains a text
file IPRDIR.TXT that describes the use of the program in complete detail.
You may run IPRDIR from the command line or from a batch file. Once the program has been
successfully executed, the NITP commands from the operator interface device or the PC program
will be directed to the remote unit. All responses from the remote unit will be returned via the serial
port.
CAUTION
Exercise care in redirecting the serial port. Make sure that you know which PLC you are
communicating with. If you are using a DOS PC program such as TISOFT, it is best to use a
batch file to:
1. Run IPRDIR to set the redirection,
2. Run the DOS program,
3. Run IPRDIR to reset the serial port to local.
NOTE:
When the module is reset, all serial ports are always reset to Local operation. Any Serial Redirect
settings will be canceled.