There are three basic ways to connect ElkRP to a system:
• Directly through your computer’s USB port using a USB Serial converter
• Through a modem
• Through a network or internet connection
Serial Ports
Direct connections are made through one of your computer’s USB port using a serial to USB converter cable. The computer assigns a COM port to the USB Serial Converter. This offers a high speed connections, typically at 115,200 baud. To use a direct connection, plug the USB end of the cable to your computer’s USB port and connect the DB9 end to the RS-232 connector on the system’s main unit. Select the correct COM port in the Communications section of the Setup menu.
Modems
Modem connections require a standard POTS phone line connected to the control panel and compatible modem, which are both increasingly difficult to find. This connection method is also the slowest connections at 2,400 baud. If not already done, install a modem in your computer according to the instructions that came with it. Select the modem from the list on the Setup menu, Communications dialog.
Networks
If your computer is connected to a network or has an internet connection, ElkRP can connect to a system via the network. The system must have a network interface module installed. If the system is on a local (private) network, the computer must be connected to the same network. Enter the system’s IP address/URL on the Account Details screen before connecting. If the system has a full-time connection to the internet, ElkRP can connect to it provided your computer is also connected to the internet.