Industrial Data Communication Products from DCB

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Education Information	We believe that an informed customer is the best customer. In addition to our technical papers, tutorials, and applications notes, we have links to other Internet resources on this page. If you don't find the answers here, send us an email with your questions. We actually answer them!
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Application Notes and Tutorials	Applications Notes and tutorials help you use DCB equipment to solve your problems. These are usually taken from actual customer projects, cleaned up a little, and made available for others. Some are tutorials, some are papers given at various conferences.
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Categories	WAN General Info Frame Relay	General Networking General Info Reference Tutorials	SCADA
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General Index of Notes	LAN Ethernet	Serial Connectivity General Info, Standards Cables	Internet General Info Security

WIDE AREA NETWORKING

General Info		T-1 Cables and Cross-Talk We receive many questions about what kind of cable works best for T-1 extensions. Many people mistakenly believe Cat-5 LAN cable works well. Here's the scoop... a technical discussion about why you should use real T-1 cable, and some manufacturer's part numbers. T-1 Cables and Cross Talk Solving T-1 Problems with the T-Extender This application note illustrates how to solve common T-1 demarc problems by using the T-Extender. The T-Extender is a no-configuration T-1 repeater/extender that allows a T-1 line to stretch 5,000 feet or longer. Read the application note here. Where'd the "T" in T-1 come from? After reading our T1 white paper, a number of customers asked us "Where'd the "T" come from in T-1, T-3, etc.? There are many stories floating around (such as T=Time, T= Transmission, T=Terrestrial, Just the next letter in sequence, etc.). We thought the best place to get the true story would be from someone who helped develop this technology. So, we asked our friend Dr John Pan. Here's his answer. Port Redirection and the EtherPath "Using the EtherPath with Unix and PC Port Redirection" is an article that discusses the options available when using port redirection software and custom-written software to access remote serial ports with the EtherPath serial device server. Sources of sample programs and free port redirector software are provided.Read the article! Embedded Server Technology to Connect RS232 Devices "Globally Serial: Extending the Reach of your Serial Devices Around the World" is an article that recently apeared in information technology trade journals. This article discusses the use of DCB's EtherPath external device servers and how they are used to connect RS-232 serial devices using a wide area ethernet network. Read the article! Using the SR-DC Data Concentrator Multiplexer Describes how to use the unique features of the SR-DC such as single-ended operation with data stream decode by user-provided workstations, one-way data transmission of multiplexed data to multiple receiving sites, and half-duplex operation over slow links such as satellite or radio links. Managing Multiplexer Based Wide Area Networks: Describes how inexpensive tools can be utilized to manage small to large sized WANs based upon multiplexers. "SNMP or not" is often the question. Look here for an answer. . Automated Dial-up Router and Bridge Connections Using Windows workstations An application note that details one common method of automating the use of IP-6600 routers and ET-6600 bridges to dial multiple remote locations on a scheduled or automated basis. Saving Time and Money... The DCB Access Switch and Remote Maintenance Ways to save money and time by using the DCB Access Switch. Mix 'n Match: Running Routers behind the DCB Multiplexer Details how you can add LAN routers to existing DCB multiplexer WAN connections. Saves money by adding email and low-priority LAN traffic to your existing WAN. All You Wanted to Know About T1 But Were Afraid to Ask A complete explanation of T1 in all its gory details from basics to signaling. Written for our distributors and rather deep. Network Management with SNMP Extend In-house T-1 Links with the T-Extender A short note describing the problem of long T-1 lines and how the T-Extender has solved it.
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Frame Relay		Frame Relay versus Analog Circuits... Reliability and Maintainability Issues Customers often ask "What is the reliability of Frame Relay versus analog phone lines?". In our experience, the Frame Relay service has been more reliable. This discussion presents some evidence and technical information that supports this improved reliability. High Availability Networking with DCB SR Async Frads How one DCB customer, Merchant's Tire, solved their high availability frame relay networking problems using DCB Async FRAD Multiplexers. Frame Relay: An Overview A Paper describing Frame Relay originally delivered to the Third Annual Traffic Communications Seminar, Tahoe, October 1995 and updated March, 1997. DCB SR Multiplexer and Cisco routers co-exist with frame relay You can locate our SR Multiplexer behind a frame relay router to let RS-232 and LAN traffic share the WAN. Frame Relay Forum The Frame Relay Forum website from the industry group publishing frame relay standards. Cisco Frame Relay Tutorial Cisco points their people to some of our tutorials... thought we'd return the favor. This is a very good Frame Relay tutorial, although it's oriented towards routers. Frame Relay is the same, we simply use it to transport other protocols in addition to LAN traffic.
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LOCAL AREA NETWORKING

Ethernet


Tunnel IPv6 Via IPv4 WANs
IPv6 LAN traffic is easily tunneled through IPv4 WAN connections using one of the DCB encrypted tunnel family products from the UT, ET, or FT series. Since the encrypted tunnels package and transport all ethernet protocols, there's no IPv6 configuration required. Quick, economical, and simple! Read the application note here.

Automated Dial-up Router and Bridge Connections Using Windows workstations
An application note that details one common method of automating the use of IP-6600 routers and ET-6600 bridges to dial multiple remote locations on a scheduled or automated basis.

Network Management with SNMP
A beginner's introduction to SNMP.. This one ends where most SNMP introductions begin.

Charles Spurgeon's Quick Reference Guide to Ethernet
A very good reference work on Ethernet, LAN Configuration, 10BaseEverything, etc. And, it's hypertext!

SERIAL CONNECTIVITY

General Info and Serial Interface Standards

Port Redirection and the EtherPath
"Using the EtherPath with Unix and PC Port Redirection" is an article that discusses the options available when using port redirection software and custom-written software to access remote serial ports with the EtherPath serial device server. Sources of sample programs and free port redirector software are provided.Read the article!
Transferring Asynchronous Data Using Synchronous Paths
This educational paper describes the various methods used to transport asynchronous data through synchronous links. In some applications, only asynchronous ports are available on the end equipment, while the only practical communication path is synchronous. The concept of "oversampling", dedicated hardware, and reasons for selecting each are detailed.Read the article!

Embedded Server Technology to Connect RS232 Devices
"Globally Serial: Extending the Reach of your Serial Devices Around the World" is an article that recently apeared in information technology trade journals. This article discusses the use of DCB's EtherPath external device servers and how they are used to connect RS-232 serial devices using a wide area ethernet network. Read the article!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cabling.
This is the "FAQ" document for the comp.dcom.cabling newsgroup. Topics covered include the types of cables (fiber, coax, copper, unshielded twisted pair-UTP, shielded twisted pair), installation techniques, standards as well as fire and building safety codes. A mirror of the faq maintained by Peter Macaulay (pmac@fox.nstn.ca)

Using the SR-DC Data Concentrator Multiplexer
Describes how to use the unique features of the SR-DC such as single-ended operation with data stream decode by user-provided workstations, one-way data transmission of multiplexed data to multiple receiving sites, and half-duplex operation over slow links such as satellite or radio links.

Managing Multiplexer Based Wide Area Networks:
Describes how inexpensive tools can be utilized to manage small to large sized WANs based upon multiplexers. "SNMP or not" is often the question. Look here for an answer.

Web site for EIA.
The Electronics Industry Association is the source of those RS type specs. Get them from the source!

EIA-561 Standard for RS-232 signals on the 8-conductor RJ-45/48

RS-530 Standard

V.35 Interface Standard Pinout

Saving Time and Money... The DCB Access Switch and Remote Maintenance
Ways to save money and time by using the DCB Access Switch.

Extend In-house T-1 Links with the T-Extender
A short note describing the problem of long T-1 lines and how the T-Extender has solved it.

Cable Selection Guides

Cable Selection Guides
Go here to select the proper cable for your application. If you know the equipment you want to connect, here's where you find out which cables you need.

Cable and Hood Wiring Diagrams
Actual part numbers, prices, and wiring diagrams for our cables. Build your own if you want, or purchase ours.. pretested and built with quality components.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cabling.
This is the "FAQ" document for the comp.dcom.cabling newsgroup. Topics covered include the types of cables (fiber, coax, copper, unshielded twisted pair-UTP, shielded twisted pair), installation techniques, standards as well as fire and building safety codes. A mirror of the faq maintained by Peter Macaulay (pmac@fox.nstn.ca)

GENERAL NETWORKING

General Info

Port Redirection and the EtherPath
"Using the EtherPath with Unix and PC Port Redirection" is an article that discusses the options available when using port redirection software and custom-written software to access remote serial ports with the EtherPath serial device server. Sources of sample programs and free port redirector software are provided.Read the article!

Reference

Frequently Asked Questions about Cabling.
This is the "FAQ" document for the comp.dcom.cabling newsgroup. Topics covered include the types of cables (fiber, coax, copper, unshielded twisted pair-UTP, shielded twisted pair), installation techniques, standards as well as fire and building safety codes. A mirror of the faq maintained by Peter Macaulay (pmac@fox.nstn.ca)

Steve Kropla's Help For World Travelers!
The best source for information on world power and telephone connector standards. If you travel internationally, you need to know about Steve Kropla.

Security Applications

General Info


Just The Facts, Please. Read the encryptor FAQ for quick answers to questions others have asked. Just click here.
Adding a Self-Signed Web Certificate to the Certificate Store.
This guide steps through the process of adding a self-signed web certificate to a Windows computer certificate store. The purpose is to eliminate the security warning, displayed by the web browser, when connected to the device. Once the certificate is installed, it can serve as verification that you are communicating with your device and not an impostor device.
Quick-start guide to the XT family products.
This application note guides the new XT user from opening the boxes to having a working encrypted tunnel between two XT units on a test bench. Step-by-step instructions make it quick and painless to learn the configuration process. Uses the XT-hEX as an example, but also covers other XT products.

Troubleshooting guide for the above Quick-start.
If it didn't go well and doesn't immediately work, this guide offers some troubleshooting hints. Most people won't need this, but it's here if you do.


What Do Those Tunnel Log Entries Mean?
When analyzing logs from DCB Tunnels (XT, UT, ET, and FT), there are often log entries that are surprising to the new user. We discuss those here.


Configuring the LAN3 on the XT-hEX, a Quick-start guide.
Most people won't need this, but if you want to use the third LAN port on the XT-hEX, this information will help you configure it.


All DCB ethenet encryptors operate similarly, with differences being in the protocols, capabilities, and authentication methods. Since the topology is comparable for all of them, we show application notes for all these products together.

DCB's Encryption Product Export Statement
Some of our encryption products are export controlled items and are regulated by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Some are classified as mass market encryption devices and may not be exported or shipped for re-export to restricted countries in Country Group E:1. They are exportable to most other countries. Read our Encryption Product Export Statement here for more specifics.

Using XT Tunnels with IP Radio Dispatch Systems.
Radio installers rely on DCB tunnel products to implement secure networks for mission critical applications. DCB Encryptors (XT, UT, and ET roducts) enable IP dispatching across multiple networks. They remove the multi-cast problem faced in many IP network installations so are frequently used along with Telex, Motorola, Kenwood, Harris, Zetron, AVTEC, and other two-way radio consoles. This document describes some of those techniques with examples we've seen at PSAPs and other dispatch centers.

Tunnel Product Security In Perspective.
Our encrypted tunnel appliances provides a LAN -to- LAN encrypted tunnel between locations. It employs a layer three (UDP/IP or TCP/IP) connection between two or more tunnel devices to create a secure, AES encrypted tunnel. For export purposes, the Some models are considered a Mass Market Encryption Device by the Department of State Bureau of Industrial Security and are export limited. This product line meets HIPPA and most government standards for non-classified data transfer. However, it is not NIST FIPS 140-2 approved. For a FIPS 140 approved product, the (more expensive) FT line of encryption appliances is required. This note discusses the security implications of using our encrypted tunnels.

Redundancy Techniques Using DCB Tunnel Devices and Software.
Users have come to rely on DCB tunnel products to implement secure networks for mission critical applications in which downtime must be kept to a minimum. Thus it is not unusual for customers to ask questions about techniques that may be applied to make the tunnel network more robust. This document describes some of those techniques with examples.
Quick-start guide to the XT-3306.
This application note guides the new XT-3306 user from opening the boxes to having a working encrypted tunnel between two XT-3306 units on a test bench. Step-by-step instructions make it quick and painless to learn the configuration process. One difference between the XT and the UT/ET families is that the XT allows the selection of TCP and UDP protocols for the tunnel path.

Troubleshooting guide for the above Quick-start.
If it didn't go well and doesn't immediately work, this guide offers some troubleshooting hints. Most people won't need this, but it's here if you do.

Quick-start guide to the UT-3302.
This application note guides the new UT-3302 user from opening the boxes to having a working encrypted tunnel between two UT-3302 units on a test bench. Step-by-step instructions make it quick and painless to learn the configuration process.

Troubleshooting guide for the above UT-3302 Quick-start.
If it didn't go well and doesn't immediately work, this guide offers some troubleshooting hints. Most people won't need this, but it's here if you do.

Encrypted Bridge Installation Option
An application note describing an appliance-like installation that allows the Tunnel to be located anywhere on the local LAN. Known around DCB as the "Single-Port Installation".

Using the UT Encrypted Bridges and UT-SOFT with IP Multicast.
Discusses applying the UT products to transport VOIP multicast via non-multicast wide area networks. Examples showing IP voice dispatch radios for public service agencies. The UT supports multi-cast IP over normal uni-cast networks and allows a private multi-cast network to span multiple IP networks. The UT-SOFT software client allows any PC to be a securely connected node on a remote network

Motorola MIP 5000 VoIP Radio Console VPN Solution Guide
This Motorola produced MIP 5000 VoIP Radio Console VPN Solution Guide features a virtual private network (VPN) solution that has been tested with MIP 5000 VoIP Radio Console. The VPN solution uses a pair of encrypted Ethernet bridges to provide a secure Ethernet tunnel between the dispatch center and a remote MIP 5000 console. The secure Ethernet tunnel supports a remote console operator receiving audio from and transmitting audio to radio channels and other MIP 5000 consoles using AES encryption.
UT Tunnel Installation Note - "Living On a Wild Feed... Safely"
This short application note summarizes the options and requirements for directly connecting the untrusted interface of UT encrypted tunnels to the Internet. Yes, the UT tunnels may be safely living on the wild side of your firewalls and if properly configured appear to be a "black hole" to your adversaries!

Using the UT for Remote Management Applications Since the UT along with UT-Soft enables a remote workstation to have a virtual presence on a remote LAN segment, it's quite useful for network monitoring and analysis, similar to a RMON without the headaches. Download an application note that discusses using UT-Soft and our UT servers for remote LAN network montoring.

ET Encrypted Bridge Quick-Start Installation Guide
A cookbook style quick start guide to installing the ET Encrypted Bridges. Illustrates common usage examples with fill-in-the-blank instructions.

ET-3302/6600 Encrypted Bridge Applications
Some ways the ET products are being used to tunnel IP traffic in the real world.


Using the ET-6601 Encrypted Bridge with EVDO & Wifi
Discusses using the ET-6601 with high speed cellular modems and 802.11 Wifi wide area connections.

ET Encrypted Bridge Installation Option
An application note describing an appliance-like installation that allows the ET to be located anywhere on the local LAN. Known around DCB as the "Single-Port Installation".

Using the ET Encrypted Bridges with 801.Q VLANs
Discusses configuring the ET products to handle 801.Q VLAN traffic. The ET supports 801.Q VLAN tagged packets, and allows a VLAN to span multiple IP networks.

Using the ET Encrypted Bridges with IP Multicast.
Discusses applying the ET products to transport VOIP multicast via non-multicast wide area networks. Examples showing IP voice dispatch radios for public service agencies. The ET supports multi-cast IP over normal uni-cast networks and allows a private multi-cast network to span multiple IP networks.

Automating Dial-Up Router and Bridge PPP Connections
An application note that details one common method of automating the use of IP-6600 routers and ET-6600 bridges to dial multiple remote locations on a scheduled or automated basis.

CONNECTING TO THE INTERNET

General Info


The AUTHORITATIVE Internet Reference site (Internic)
This is the source for those RFC's (Request for Comments), FYI's (For Your Information), STD's (IETF Standards), and other Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) or Internet Society documents.

SCADA

General Info

Smart Metering using DCB communications products.
Utilities have discovered the ease and security benefits of using DCB's encrypted ethernet bridging products for backhauling smart grid information. Securely transport proprietary, private information on the shared, public network. Read it now.
SCADA Protocols over Frame Relay - Supporting Modbus, DNP, and others without configuration?
DCB supplies several products that allow asynchronous SCADA protocols such as DNP and Modbus to be transported using frame relay or ethernet networks. One unique feature of these products is their ability to handle most any byte-oriented protocol without protocol specific configuration. This short note describes this feature and its benefits along with some information on how it works. Read it now.
SCADA Communications Using Commercial Frame Relay Networks
The most commonly used wide area networking technology for SCADA systems is the venerable leased line and multi-drop modem. The infrastructure required to support this technology is fast becoming excessively costly as telephone carriers migrate to packet switched technology solutions. Current SCADA systems can be migrated to new Frame Relay wide area networks without costly deployment of new RTU and host equipment by using Frame Relay FRADS designed to support legacy SCADA protocols. This paper discusses the economics, practicality, and reliability of commercial Frame Relay networking for SCADA systems. Originally presented at Entelec 2001. Read it now.

SCADA over Frame Relay - How Much Bandwidth is really needed?
SCADA applications over Frame Relay require very little bandwidth. So why would we even bring up the discussion about bandwidth when using our BPF (a SCADA FRAD communications device) for SCADA over Frame Relay? Because the issue comes up every single time a customer installs a system. Here are the facts.

CDPD Modems And Remote Ethernet Devices
Most CDPD modems are designed to connect to remote devices (such as a laptop)using ppp, and with the proliferation of ethernet-enabled remote devices, a method is needed to connect the serial RS-232 CDPD modem to one or more ethernet-enabled RTU devices at remote sites along with serial devices. The DCB IP-5200 micro-router application described in this paper is an example of this technology in use. Along with the IP-5200, an EtherPath ethernet to serial converter may be used for direct access to serial devices. Read the article!

Port Redirection and the EtherPath
"Using the EtherPath with Unix and PC Port Redirection" is an article that discusses the options available when using port redirection software and custom-written software to access remote serial ports with the EtherPath serial device server. Sources of sample programs and free port redirector software are provided.Read the article!

SCADA Communications over Frame Relay: Introducing the Broadcast Polling FRAD
An overview of Frame Relay communications and how it is useful for SCADA communications. This white paper details the way Frame Relay can be used with asynchronous polling SCADA RTUs with no additional protocol needed on the RTU or host computer. DCB's frame relay access device, the BPF SCADA FRAD handles the interface between your multi-drop SCADA system and the Frame Relay network.

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition: The challenge of increased computer power, higher speeds and modern networks
A look at factors driving the changing modern SCADA and how some DCB products help SCADA users cope with that change.

Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative Devises Innovative use of Multiplexers to Save over $70,000 a year.
How a large electric cooperative used DCB SCADA Multiplexers to combine a Load Management System and a SCADA system over a single multi-drop radio system. Using SCADA-Mux equipment, two SCADA systems with incompatible protocols are communicating over an economical wide area network.

Frame Relay versus Analog Circuits... Reliability and Maintainability Issues
Customers often ask "What is the reliability of Frame Relay versus analog phone lines?". In our experience, the Frame Relay service has been more reliable. This discussion presents some evidence and technical information that supports this improved reliability.

Using the SR-DC Data Concentrator Multiplexer
Describes how to use the unique features of the SR-DC such as single-ended operation with data stream decode by user-provided workstations, one-way data transmission of multiplexed data to multiple receiving sites, and half-duplex operation over slow links such as satellite or radio links.

On-Line Demo of EtherPath and Access Switch via the Internet
Quickly check out the on-line use of our EtherPath, Access Switch, Remote Power Control, and the network management and configuration features of our SR, SRX, and SPL multiplexers through the Internet. Telnet to the Etherpath from your PC via the Internet.

Network Management, SNMP vs. Out-of-Band Management.
The realities of managing your LAN/WAN with SNMP and how Out-of-Band management can make the system more effective.

Saving Time and Money... The DCB Access Switch and Remote Maintenance
Ways to save money and time by using the DCB Access Switch.

Frame Relay: An Overview
A Paper describing Frame Relay originally delivered to the Third Annual Traffic Communications Seminar, Tahoe, October 1995 and updated in March, 1997.

APPLICATION NOTE INDEX

General Info

T-1 Cables and Cross-Talk
We receive many questions about what kind of cable works best for T-1 extensions. Many people mistakenly believe Cat-5 LAN cable works well. Here's the scoop... a technical discussion about why you should use real T-1 cable, and some manufacturer's part numbers. T-1 Cables and Cross Talk

Solving T-1 Problems with the T-Extender

This application note illustrates how to solve common T-1 demarc problems by using the T-Extender. The T-Extender is a no-configuration T-1 repeater/extender that allows a T-1 line to stretch 5,000 feet or longer. Read the application note here.

SCADA Protocols over Frame Relay - Supporting Modbus, DNP, and others without configuration?
DCB supplies several products that allow asynchronous SCADA protocols such as DNP and Modbus to be transported using frame relay or ethernet networks. One unique feature of these products is their ability to handle most any byte-oriented protocol without protocol specific configuration. This short note describes this feature and its benefits along with some information on how it works. Read it now.

AirLink Raven (and Redwing) CDPD Modems and the IP-5200 Router Application Note on connecting the AirLink Raven CDPD Modem to Ethernet Devices using the IP 5200 from DCB This is Copyright March 2002 AirLink Communications, Inc. an dused by permission. This is a step-by-step cookbook that makes it easy.

SCADA Communications Using Commercial Frame Relay Networks
The most commonly used wide area networking technology for SCADA systems is the venerable leased line and multi-drop modem. The infrastructure required to support this technology is fast becoming excessively costly as telephone carriers migrate to packet switched technology solutions. Current SCADA systems can be migrated to new Frame Relay wide area networks without costly deployment of new RTU and host equipment by using Frame Relay FRADS designed to support legacy SCADA protocols. This paper discusses the economics, practicality, and reliability of commercial Frame Relay networking for SCADA systems. Originally presented at Entelec 2001. Read it now.

SCADA over Frame Relay - How Much Bandwidth is really needed?
SCADA applications over Frame Relay require very little bandwidth. So why would we even bring up the discussion about bandwidth when using our BPF (a SCADA FRAD communications device) for SCADA over Frame Relay? Because the issue comes up every single time a customer installs a system. Here are the facts.

Where'd the "T" come from in T-1, T-3, etc.?
After reading our T1 white paper, a number of customers asked us "Where'd the "T" come from in T-1, T-3, etc.? There are many stories floating around (such as T=Time, T= Transmission, T=Terrestrial, Just the next letter in sequence, etc.). We thought the best place to get the true story would be from someone who helped develop this technology. So, we asked our fiend Dr John Pan. Here's his answer.

CDPD Modems And Remote Ethernet Devices
Most CDPD modems are designed to connect to remote devices (such as a laptop)using ppp, and with the proliferation of ethernet-enabled remote devices, a method is needed to connect the serial RS-232 CDPD modem to one or more ethernet-enabled RTU devices at remote sites along with serial devices. The DCB IP-5200 micro-router application described in this paper is an example of this technology in use. Along with the IP-5200, an EtherPath ethernet to serial converter may be used for direct access to serial devices. Read the article!

Port Redirection and the EtherPath
"Using the EtherPath with Unix and PC Port Redirection" is an article that discusses the options available when using port redirection software and custom-written software to access remote serial ports with the EtherPath serial device server. Sources of sample programs and free port redirector software are provided.Read the article!


Embedded Server Technology to Connect RS232 Devices
"Globally Serial: Extending the Reach of your Serial Devices Around the World" is an article that recently apeared in information technology trade journals. This article discusses the use of DCB's EtherPath external device servers and how they are used to connect RS-232 serial devices using a wide area ethernet network. Read the article!

SCADA Communications over Frame Relay: Introducing the Broadcast Polling FRAD
An overview of Frame Relay communications and how it is useful for SCADA communications. This white paper details the way Frame Relay can be used with asynchronous polling SCADA RTUs with no additional protocol needed on the RTU or host computer. DCB's frame relay access device, the BPF SCADA FRAD handles the interface between your multi-drop SCADA system and the Frame Relay network.

Frame Relay versus Analog Circuits... Reliability and Maintainability Issues
Customers often ask "What is the reliability of Frame Relay versus analog phone lines?". In our experience, the Frame Relay service has been more reliable. This discussion presents some evidence and technical information that supports this improved reliability.

Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative Devises Innovative use of Multiplexers to Save over $70,000 a year.
How a large electric cooperative used DCB SCADA Multiplexers to combine a Load Management System and a SCADA system over a single multi-drop radio system. Using SCADA-Mux equipment, two SCADA systems with incompatible protocols are communicating over an economical wide area network.

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition: The challenge of increased computer power, higher speeds and modern networks
A look at factors driving the changing modern SCADA and how some DCB products help SCADA users cope with that change.


Remote Network Management Cuts Into Frequent Flyer Miles: Prudential Securities Solidifies Nationwide Network Uptime
Customer success story about Prudential Securities using DCB Access Switches to lower cost and improve network uptime.

Using the SR-DC Data Concentrator Multiplexer
Describes how to use the unique features of the SR-DC such as single-ended operation with data stream decode by user-provided workstations, one-way data transmission of multiplexed data to multiple receiving sites, and half-duplex operation over slow links such as satellite or radio links.

Managing Multiplexer Based Wide Area Networks:
Describes how inexpensive tools can be utilized to manage small to large sized WANs based upon multiplexers. "SNMP or not" is often the question. Look here for an answer.

On-Line Demo of EtherPath and Access Switch via the Internet
Quickly check out the on-line use of our EtherPath, Access Switch, Remote Power Control, and the network management and configuration features of our SR, SRX, and SPL multiplexers through the Internet. Telnet to the Etherpath from your PC via the Internet.

High Availability Networking with DCB SR Async Frads
How one DCB customer, Merchant's Tire, solved their high availability frame relay networking problems using DCB Async FRAD Multiplexers.

Network Management, SNMP vs. Out-of-Band Management.
The realities of managing your LAN/WAN with SNMP and how Out-of-Band management can make the system more effective.

Private Frame Relay network saves money and time.
Customer success story. How a private frame relay network was used in an RS-6000 and SCO Unix wide area network to extend the life of older equipment and save money and time.

All You Wanted to Know About T1 But Were Afraid to Ask
A complete explanation of T1 in all its gory details from basics to signaling. Written for our distributors and rather deep.

The True Story...Terminal Servers VS. Multiplexer Systems
Do you want to install remote terminal servers or multiplexers? Get the facts and do the analysis. You may be surprised!

Note on load balancing SRX/SPL Multi-host systems.
Tech Note that explains load balancing drops when using multiple SRX host multiplexers on a multi-drop line.

Network Management with SNMP
A beginner's introduction to SNMP.. This one ends where most SNMP introductions begin.

Saving Time and Money... The DCB Access Switch and Remote Maintenance
Ways to save money and time by using the DCB Access Switch.

Extend In-house T-1 Links with the T-Extender
A short note describing the problem of long T-1 lines and how the T-Extender has solved it.

Small Business Series: Connecting your LAN to the Internet
You have a local office LAN. Now, you want Internet access for everyone!

Small Business Series: Connecting Remote Office LANs
You have LANs in two offices. Now, you want to connect them together.

Small Business Series: Data Communications, A Primer
A simple, no-fluff examination of the choices available for data communications. Learn what your consultant is talking about.

Frame Relay: An Overview
A Paper describing Frame Relay originally delivered to the Third Annual Traffic Communications Seminar, Tahoe, October 1995 and updated in March, 1997.

Lightning and Power Surge Damage and Prevention
A short paper describing the problems caused by lightning and power surges along with some things you can do to prevent them.

More to come...



Data Comm for Business Inc. 2949 County Road 1000 E Dewey, Il 61840	Voice: 217-897-6600 Toll Free: 800-4-DCB-NET Toll Free: 800-432-2638	Email: Contact Page Web: www.dcbnet.com Fax: 217-897-8023
All DCB web pages copyright ©1995- Data Comm for Business, All rights reserved. EtherPath®, EtherSeries®, EtherPoll®, EtherBridge® and EtherModem® are Registered Trademarks of Data Comm for Business, Inc.

Just The Facts, Please.