CS141 Communication Services Overview

This article includes the following:

Webserver

SNMP

Modbus

BACnet Server

Serial Trace

UNMS & RCCMD Trap Service

RSyslog Client

BACS Viewer

For this configuration step, navigate to the following menu:

The CS141 uses separate system services for communication, which can be started and stopped independently to each other:

This allows activating and deactivating the functions without having to restart the CS141 completely.

While Modbus and SNMP are used as the industry standard inside almost all higher-level monitoring systems, the UNMS server is only necessary if you use the monitoring software UNMS 2 from GENEREX.

To enable or disable the according service, use the buttons.

Note: Doctrine Change with Firmware 2.14 – Cybersecurity Enhanced!

In accordance with best practice, the default settings were selected in such a way that a quick and uncomplicated integration into existing systems based on standards was possible. With a view to cybersecurity, this has now been changed. All services that are not required for the initial setup will be set to "OFF" by default in the factory setting - administrators will have to manually and deliberately activate functions such as SNMP or remote syslog before they can be used.

Webserver

The web server service is the local web interface of the CS141. It establishes a connection via port 80 using a web browser, through which the CS141 can be configured.

Disabling HTTP will restart the device without starting the web interface. By disabling, no further configuration is possible. The CS141 therefore issues a direct alert before disabling this option. Ensure your configuration is done perfectly - Disabling the HTTP Server cannot be withdrawed without physical access to the device.

Why is it possible to deactivate this server?

In some cases, it is necessary to ensure a minimum of possible interactions. The CS141 takes care even in this seldom cases: Depending on its configuration only additional sftp-access is possible in order to download data logs. Therefore, the admin password can be known without consequences of network security.

Note:

The rescue system on the CS141 has not only saved the last firmware, but also the last configuration before your update. If you intend to deactivate the http functionality, it is recommended to perform a firmware update before this last configuration step.

By doing it, you will be able to access the system by its built-in rescue mode.

SNMP

The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a network protocol developed by the IETF to monitor and control network elements from a central station.

The protocol controls communication between the monitored devices and the monitoring station. Thereby SNMP describes the structure of the data packets that can be sent as well as the entire communication process.

It was designed to ensure that any network-capable device can be implemented into monitoring systems.

Possible tasks of network management using SNMP include:

- monitoring of network components,

- Remote control and remote configuration of network components

- Error detection and error notification.

With its simplicity, modularity and versatility, SNMP has become the standard supported by most management programs as well as endpoints.

If you want to use SNMP in your network, leave the check mark active for this function.

Modbus

Fieldbuses are bus systems that connect field devices like sensors or actuators inside a complex operating scenario to allow communication to an according full-automated managing system.

If several communication partners send their information over the same line, it is necessary to ensure communication about fixed rules:

• who (identifier)
• what (measure, command) and
• when (initiative)

To ensure this communication, there are standardized protocols to be used.

For more information, please refer to the chapter “Modbus” in the CS141 manual. Modbus-tables are appendixed.

BACnet Server

BACnet (Building Automation and Control Networks) is a network protocol, standardized by ASHRAE, ANSI and ISO 16484-5 for building automation. 

For more information about the possibilities and configuration, please refer to the chapter "BACnet" in the CS141 manual.

Serial Trace

The toolbox, at System>Tools, provides a serial UPS tracer for visualizing and evaluating communication problems between the CS141 and the UPS. This communication takes place via port 4000.  With this slider, it is possible to selectively open (on) or close (off) port 4000.

UNMS & RCCMD Trap Service

The UNMS & RCCMD Trap Service was specially developed for communication with the universal network management software from GENEREX. The powerful successor UNMS 2 communicates with the CS141 via UPSTCP on port 5769. The UPS server service activates or deactivates the availability to communicate via this port.

RSyslog Client

Remote syslog is a popular method of sending locally stored log files in a standardized format to a central network node, called a syslog receiver, regardless of the device or manufacturer. This slider enables / disables the Remote syslog service.

BACS Viewer

If running a BACS system, you can use the BACS Viewer software to download the data from the batteries being monitored. This function opens the necessary SSH / SFTP at port 22 and enables the agent via which the BACS viewer can connect to the CS141 / BACS WEBMANAGER.