OutBack Power Network without a Router

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Application Note

AXS Port Network Without a Router

Introduction

The OutBack AXS Port was designed to be used with an external router. However, some customers

may need to access it without a router to interface with SunSpec Modbus. This document will describe

the procedure to connect to the AXS Port using SunSpec Modbus by connecting directly to a desktop or

laptop computer.

Figure 1: AXS Port without router

Solution

Creating this local network without a router will require adjustments to your computer’s (PC or laptop)

network (IP and DNS settings).

The AXS Port will arrive with the default IP address of 192.168.0.64 and configured to DHCP. However,

if the AXS Port was previously connected to a network, it must be reset.

Procedure

 Reset AXS Port if required (see details below)

 Connect AXS Port to OutBack power-suppling device (inverter, charge controller, or HUB

connected to those devices)

 Verify connectivity

Resetting AXS Port (if required):

The AXS Port has a reset switch located below the micro SD card. Using the reset switch will restore all

settings to factory default values, including the IP address.

 Insert a paper clip (or other narrow tool) to press the reset switch on the AXS Port.

 Connect an OutBack CAT5 patch cable from the OutBack power-supplying device to the HUB

device port of the AXS Port (powered on) while the tool is still inserted. Hold the reset switch for

five seconds. The LED will blink during the resetting process.

Summary of content (4 pages)

PAGE 1
Application Note AXS Port Network Without a Router Introduction The OutBack AXS Port was designed to be used with an external router. However, some customers may need to access it without a router to interface with SunSpec Modbus. This document will describe the procedure to connect to the AXS Port using SunSpec Modbus by connecting directly to a desktop or laptop computer.
PAGE 2
Application Note Connect AXS Port to OutBack Device:  If the last step was skipped, connect an OutBack CAT5 patch cable from the OutBack power-supplying device to the HUB device port of the AXS Port.  Connect a CAT5 Ethernet crossover cable from the Ethernet port on the AXS Port to your PC or laptop.  Adjust your network, Ethernet, and DNS server settings in accordance with Figure 2 below.
PAGE 3
Application Note For Advanced Users & Developers OutBack’s Software Engineering team released Outback Modbus Interface Device Client Software in 2012, a development package designed to interface with your AXS Port. This package will not be updated or maintained by OutBack Power Technologies and may not operate correctly on future models.
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Application Note About OutBack Power Technologies OutBack Power Technologies is a leader in advanced energy conversion technology. OutBack products include true sine wave inverter/chargers, maximum power point tracking charge controllers, and system communication components, as well as circuit breakers, batteries, accessories, and assembled systems. Contact Information Address: Corporate Headquarters 17825 – 59th Avenue N.E. Suite B Arlington, WA 98223 USA Email: Support@outbackpower.