The SmartLink Interface

The SmartLink interface allow a user to define a message and format type that may be sent on the second COM port or to a disk file. The following pages explain how to build a character string that can be sent through the SmartLink. Using the SmartLink feature, you can interface to just about any intelligent device such as video matrix switchers, paging systems, etc. To do this, a RS-232 link is cabled between one of the EntraPass Workstation and the external device. The necessary command strings and protocols can be easily edited on connection to fit just about any job.

The SmartLink simplifies the interfacing to “alien” intelligent devices because it provides the system installer all the tools necessary to build and maintain the actual interface without having to purchase “special” drivers from Kantech. In communications, a link is a line or channel over which data is transmitted. The transmission of data from one computer to another, or from one device to another. A communications device, therefore, is any machine that assists data transmission. For example, modems, cables, and ports are all communications devices.

Required Material

•  A computer that meets the same requirements as an EntraPass Workstation (see Minimum System Requirements).

•   Installation CD-ROM for the SmartLink application including the serial number.

Installation

1 - Create the new application in the Workstation Registration menu, see  Minimum System Requirements for more information on how to create new applications,

2 - Install the SmartLink application on the computer (see System Installation).

NOTE: EntraPass Web will be installed automatically with SmartLink.

3 - Once the SmartLink application is installed, you need to configure the SmartLink application,

4 - If you are using the Message Mode, you will need to create tasks. For more information on how to create tasks with the Task Builder, see Task Builder Definition.

Configuring the SmartLink Application

The configuration is done on an ordinary EntraPass workstation or any EntraPass Workstation for configuration (found on the same computer as the Server software). Depending on the modes that will be used for the SmartLink (Messages or Commands), you must program the workstation accordingly.

Starting the SmartLink Application   

1 - From the computer where the SmartLink application is installed, click on the Windows® task bar and select Start > All Programs > EntraPass > SmartLink > SmartLink . The SmartLink application will be started. Refer to the SmartLink Reference Manual DN1327  for more information on the SmartLink Application.

NOTE: Limited support is provided on the SmartLink interface.