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- Are all of the components of the CommPlete Server hot swappable?
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- RASCARDS AND MODEM CARDS ARE NOT HOT SWAPPABLE. To remove these cards, you must first turn off the RASCard in the segment. If you have a CC9600 chassis with more than one segment, you may leave the two power supplies turned on to keep the other segments running. (A segment consists of a RASCard and the three cards to its right.) You can hot-swap only the MR9600 Controller module and the CC9600’s redundant power supplies.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v, MR9600
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- Can I expect to achieve 56K bps transmission over existing phone lines?
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- The condition of the local loop will determine the actual performance level achieved. Some local loops will support speeds up to 56Kbps, while other lines do not support speeds over 33.6Kbps. The local loop is the portion of the circuit that is from the client modem to the central office of the phone company. This is the only portion of the circuit that is analog. The remaining portion of the circuit must be digital (from the client end central office all the way to the CommPlete). Once the analog line/signal hits the central office, it's converted to a digital signal and must remain in a digital format until it is received by the V.90 Central Site modem in the CommPlete.
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- Models: MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- Can I upgrade my modem firmware and how much does it cost?
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- Yes, and Multi-Tech modem firmware upgrades are absolutely FREE. If you have a flash upgradeable modem or an EPROM upgradeable modem, check our web site for more information. Go to the firmware page on our web.
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- Models: PRI-Starter
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- Can the T1 PRI ports be configured to support either T1 or PRI?
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- A single CommPlete RAS segment can support only T1 or PRI, but not both, because T1 segments use different hardware than PRI segments. We provide RAS segment starter kits, which are individual RAS segments pre-configured to use a single PRI line (PRI-Starter), a single T1 line (T1-Starter), or two T1 lines (2T1-Starter). For more information, contact our Sales department at 800-328- 9717.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, T1-Starter
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- Does RAS Express Support RADIUS Assigned IP Addresses (static) and Dynamic IP Addresses Simultaneously? If So, How Is It Setup?
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- Set the "Remote Client Address" method of RAS Express to use "Address Pool". The range of IP Addresses for this pool must match the number of RAS WAN Ports (24,32 or 48). This range of IP Addresses must be unique and cannot conflict with the RADIUS Assigned IP Addresses. Save these settings to disk and reboot RAS Express. Now set the "Remote Client Address" method to "Radius", save to disk and reboot the server. Please Note: The "Security Protocol" of RAS Express must be set to RADIUS. The next step involves editing the RADIUS server’s user data file (called the Users file). Since different RADIUS servers implement their security features differently, this FAQ will provide only a general answer to cover most RADIUS servers. In RADIUS, each user must have a Service-Type of "Framed" and Framed-Protocol of "PPP." Add the attribute Framed-IP-Address to each user entry, if it doesn’t exist. If a user requires a static address, set Framed-IP-Address to the static address. Otherwise, set Framed-IP-Address to 255.255.255.254. This "address" tells RADIUS to let RASExpress assign the user an IP address. RASExpress will assign the user an address from its address pool.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- Does V.90/K56flex provide 56K bps in both directions?
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- V.90/K56flex is asymmetrical. It provides speeds up to 56Kbps in the downstream, and speeds of up to 33.6Kbps (V.34) in the upstream.
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- Models: MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- How do I contact Multi-Tech Technical Support?
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- Monday – Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM (Central Time), dial 1-800-972-2439 and select option 6 for technical assistance with the CommPlete CC9600 or CC2400 Remote Access Servers, or email tsupport@multitech.com and specifiy Your model of CommPlete.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- How do I determine the version of firmware for a particular component of the CommPlete System?
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- With MR9600 Controller version 2.50 or greater, log into the controller via a Telnet or Terminal session and type "ver csn", where csn = card slot number. For example type "ver 1a". The controller will respond with the version for the device specified. Device 1a is the first RAS Card so the version of RAS Express will be displayed. Type "ver 1a:4h" and the controller will display the version of each device specified in the csn range. To determine the version of the controller; while logged in type "ver" or open a telnet session to the Controller. The initial login menu will display the version currently running. If the MR9600 controller is prior to version 2.50, then perform the following steps to determine the particular component's version:
RASExpress (Remote Access Software on the RASCard/s RAS96-T1)
Telnet to RASExpress. The initial main menu screen displays the version currently running.
Modem Firmware (MT5634HD8, MT5634HD16, MT3334HD8)
While Logged into the controller. Issue the command online xy (where x is the slot number & y is the device specifier for the modem under investigation, ie online 2h). Once online with the modem, issue the command ati3. The version currently running will be displayed. Press twice to exit online mode.
Modem Boot Code(MT5634HD8, MT5634HD16),
While Logged into the controller, go online with an idle modem. Issue the command online xy (where x is the slot number & y is the device specifier for the modem under investigation, ie online 2a). Once online with the modem, issue the command at*fs. The command *FS stops the running modem code, which allows you to issue AT commands to the boot code. Type ATi1i2i3i4 and the boot code will respond with it's version information. Type atflend to restart the modem code. Press twice to exit online mode. PLEASE NOTE: If just OK is displayed as a response to the i1i2i3i4 commands, then contact CommPlete Support at 800-972-2439 to determine the boot code version, or go to ftp://ftp.multitech.com/commplete/modem/bootcode/current/bootcode.txt.
T1 Firmware (T1 card piggy backed on RASCard/MTRAS96-T1)
While logged into the Controller. Issue the command t1status xy (where x is the slot number & y is the device specifier, ie t1status 5b for the T1-1 card in slot 5, and t1status 5c for the T1-2 card in slot five). The T1 Card Status screen is displayed. The version currently running is listed at the bottom of the screen. Please note the T1's boot code follows the version number (firmware version/boot code version).
PRI Firmware (MTPRI-HD23B, MTPRI-HD30B)
While logged into the Controller. Issue the command pristatus xa (where x is the slot number, ie pristatus 2a for the PRI card in slot 2). The PRI Card Status screen is displayed. The version currently running is listed at the bottom of the screen. Please note the PRI's boot code follows the version number (firmware version/boot code version).
MultiCommManager Software
To determine the current version of your MultiCommManager software, either refer to the version number printed on the installation diskette or, if already installed, click on File | About.
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- Models: MR9600, MT3334HD8, MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8, MTPRI-HD23B, MTPRI-HD30B, 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, T1-Starter
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- How do I distinguish a problem with the CommPlete Server from a problem on the network to which it is connected?
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- There are three questions that you can ask yourself when troubleshooting this situation:
1. Are any devices on the network having the same trouble that the CommPlete is having? If so, then the problem is most likely on the network, not the CommPlete Server.
2. If the CommPlete Server is disconnected from the network, does the problem disappear from the network? If so, then the problem most likely lies in the CommPlete Server.
3. Were any changes made to the network prior to the problem occurring? Check the history of the network before the problem appeared to find out if any changes were made to the CommPlete Server or the network. This will narrow your search for the cause of the problem.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- How do I fax with a CommPlete modem?
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- Two methods exist based on your fax needs. Large Fax Server applications can access CommPlete modems directly across your network. The Fax Server must be configured to open TCP Sockets to RAS Express. RASExpress assigns a specific Socket (TCP Port Number) to each modem. The Fax software communicates to the modems over the TCP/IP Sockets. Another method, which applies more to the needs of an individual workstation, requires the use of a software redirector program, such as Multi Tech's WinMCSI for Windows 95/98 and NT Workstation. This software allows users on your LAN to map virtual COM ports from their workstation to the modems in the CommPlete Server and use them as if they were connected to the modems with a serial cable. For more information about WinMCSI, contact Multi Tech Sales at 800-328-9717.
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- Models: MT3334HD8, MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- How do I update the boot code of my CommPlete Server modems?
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- These instructions illustrate updating the MT5634HD8 modems and assume that you are using a controller running 2.42 firmware or later. Note: When boot code is updated, the modem firmware is erased and will have to be reprogrammed.
Preliminary Steps
Boot code version 2.00 and later requires 4 MB PROMs in the modems. Check your modems for this requirement:
1. Go online with one modem from each card you plan to update. Command: "ONLINE 2A,3A,4A" starts an online session with the first modem of each card.
2. Type ATI8. The modem should respond with: PROM SIZE: 4 MEG. If it does, continue with step 3. If the modem responds with: PROM SIZE: 2 MEG or simply OK, Contact CommPlete Support at 1-800-972-2439 for further technical details.
Note: Updating boot code (the boot prom) with the incorrect file will damage your modem card to the point of needing repair. Also, it is NOT necessary to identify the PROM size of every modem on the card; however, since both types can run in the same segment it is important verify one modem on each card.
3. Repeat step 2 for each modem you specified in the ONLINE command in step 1 (Press Esc-N to advance to the next modem).
4. Press Esc twice to exit the ONLINE session.
Updating the Boot Code
WARNING: Boot code version 2.02 (used on 4 MEG modem) requires controller firmware version 2.40 or later. To update the controller refer to related FAQ.
1. Telnet to the controller, login, change to the B: drive (by typing B: at the # prompt) and use the directory command to determine the amount of free space on the B: drive. Updating requires about 15K bytes of free space plus the size of the boot code file. If you need more space on the B: drive, ftp to the controller, copy the files in the B:\MMM\MR.LOG\ directory to another computer, and then delete them from the B:\MMM\MR.LOG\ directory.
2. FTP the new boot code file to the root directory of the controller's B: drive.
3. Close your FTP session, then telnet to the controller (Note: A terminal attached to the controller with a null-modem serial cable is equivalent to telnet).
4. Log in with supervisor level credentials and change to the B: drive.
5. Type DIR to view the root directory. Verify the size of the hex file is correct. The copy on the b: drive MUST be the same size as the original for the update to work properly.
6. Type "UPDATE -boot <filename.ext> <device specifier>" (e.g., "update -boot bt_205.hex 2A:2H" updates first eight modems with boot code 2.05). A space is required between the update command and the -boot option, also between the option and file name and between the file name and device specifier. Use a colon (2a:2h) to define a range, or a comma (2a,2h) to specify individual modems.
7. Press ENTER to confirm the conditions, or type n to abort the update process. If you confirm the conditions, the controller will check the file for errors. DO NOT PRESS ANY KEYS DURING THE FILE CHECK. Doing so will abort the file check and start the update of the firmware, which risks flashing damaged code into the modems.
8. If the file check succeeds the update continues and then the # prompt reappears. The updated modems are put out of service and then reset. During the update, the CD LED on each modem blinks as code is received (as each block of new boot code is written to the modem's boot prom).
9. Wait for the response "Flash complete - use UPDATE to display status". At this point the controller will reset the modem and now the modem's CD LED flashes continuosly. Type "update" and a summary of the update will be displayed.
10. When the boot code update is finished, you must next program appropriate modem firmware into the modem(s). Until you do, their CD LEDs will continue to flash and the modems will be non-functional.
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- Models: MT3334HD8, MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- How do I update the firmware code of my CommPlete controller module?
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- The instructions in this file use the scenario of updating the CommPlete controller module. The steps below use this scenario to provide you with examples of the commands to enter. The instructions also assume that you are updating a controller currently running 2.40 firmware or later.
1. Log into the controller via Telnet and change to the B: drive (At the # prompt, type B: to change to the B drive) and use the directory command (dir or ls) to determine the amount of free space on the B: drive. The amount of free space that is needed should be approximately 15 kbytes larger than the size of the new controller firmware file. If enough free space is not available, Log into the controller using an FTP client program. The "B:\MMM\MR.LOG\" directory contains system event files that the controller generates hourly. Copy these files to another computer for future analysis and then delete them from the "B:\MMM\MR.LOG\" directory.
2. Using FTP software, transfer the new controller firmware file to the root directory of the controller’s B: drive. CAUTION: Do NOT transfer the firmware file to the controller’s A: drive. The A: drive does not have enough space to maintain the file's integrity.
3. Close your FTP session. Then open a Telnet session with the controller. (Note: A terminal attached to the controller with a null-modem serial cable will perform the same function that the Telnet session will perform.)
4. Log in with supervisor level credentials and change to the B drive.
5. Type DIR to display the contents of the root directory. Compare the size of the original firmware file to the size now on the controller's B: drive. The copy MUST be the same size as the original for the update to work properly.
6. If the controller’s copy of the firmware file is the correct size, type "update" followed by the file name, i.e. "UPDATE REL254.HXC". The controller will display the conditions of the update.
7. Press ENTER to confirm the conditions, or type n to abort the update process. If you confirm the conditions, the controller will check the file for errors. DO NOT PRESS ANY KEYS DURING THE FILE CHECK. Doing so will abort the file check and start the update of the firmware, which risks flashing damaged code into the controller.
8. If the controller finds no errors in the file, it will start updating itself. A continuous progress percentage will appear throughout the update.
9. When the update is finished, the controller will ask you if you want to reboot it. Type y. The controller will drop your Telnet session and reboot, starting up with the new firmware.
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- Models: MR9600
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- How do I update the firmware code of the modems in my CommPlete Server?
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- These instructions illustrate updating the MT5634HD8 modems in slots 2-4 and provide you with examples of the commands to enter. The instructions assume that you are using a controller running 2.42 firmware or later.
1. Telnet to the controller, login, change to the B: drive (by typing b: at the # prompt) and use the directory command to determine the amount of free space on the B: drive (you need about 15K more than the size of the firmware file you'll be transferring). If there's not enough free space, ftp to the controller. The B:\MMM\MR.LOG\ directory contains system event files generated hourly by the controller. Copy these files to another computer for future analysis and then delete them from the B:\MMM\MR.LOG\ directory.
2. FTP the new modem firmware file to the root of the controller’s B: drive. CAUTION: It is recommeded to transfer all firmware files to the controller’s B: drive. The A: drive has less space and contains system files. A modem firmware file normally can fit on the A: drive and if placed there the update would succeed, but we are just trying to instill a wise administrative practice.
3. Close your FTP session. Then open a Telnet session with the controller. (Note: A terminal attached to the controller with a null-modem serial cable is equivalent to telnetting.)
4. Log in with supervisor level credentials and change to the B: drive.
5. Type DIR to display the contents of the root directory. Compare the size of the original firmware file to the size of the file now on the controller's b: drive. The copy MUST be the same size as the original for the update to work properly.
6. If the controller’s copy of the firmware file is the correct size, type "UPDATE filename(with extension) device specifier(s)". For example, "update hd8_110v.hex 2A:2H", will update the first eight modems with firmware file hd8_110v.hex. A space is required between the command and the file name and between the file name and device specifier. The punctuation mark colon (2a:2h) defines a range of devices, where as the comma (2a,2h) specifies just those two modems. The controller will display the conditions of the update and ask you if they are correct.
7. Press ENTER to confirm the conditions, or type n to abort the update process. If you confirm the conditions, the controller will check the file for errors. DO NOT PRESS ANY KEYS DURING THE FILE CHECK. Doing so will abort the file check and start the update of the firmware, which risks flashing damaged code into the modems.
8. If the controller finds no errors in the file, it will continue with the update. The # prompt will reappear. The modems are then put out of service and then reset. During the update, the CD LED on each modem will blink each time it receives a packet of code from the controller.
9. To find out how much of the update that the controller has performed, type UPDATE or wait for the response "Flash complete - use UPDATE to display status".
10. When the update is finished, type "update" to see the update results. Use the ONLINE command to go online with the modem(s) you updated. Example: "ONLINE 2A,3A,4A" starts an online session with the first modem of each card.
11. Type ATI. The modem will respond with its new firmware version. Example:
[0] A:\ # ONLINE 2A
==== Online with device: Slot 02 Device A ====
==== type " and ?" to display help information ====
ATI
Lucent kfd254 MT5634HD8 Central Site Data Modem Version 1.10V
OK
12. Repeat step 11 for each modem you specified in the ONLINE command in step 10. Press Esc-N to go online with the next modem you specified.
13. Press Esc twice to exit the ONLINE session.
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- Models: MT3334HD8, MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- How do I use the CommPlete modems with my Proprietary Data Application?
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- Please refer to question and answer 8. The server/host computer running your data application can open TCP/IP Sockets to the CommPlete modems in the same manner as a FAX server. Another option is to use the Telnet Dial-Out feature of RASExpress. To use it, simply telnet to the RASCard, and choose the first menu item, which is "Dial out." Follow the menu to pick an available Line and modem. The user attempting this must have dial out rights.
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- Models: MT3334HD8, MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- I have more than one segment (more than one RASCard) in my CommPlete server; how can I use RASExpress Local Security without having to repeatedly enter usernames and passwords into each RASExpress Server?
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- After creating the new users on one of the RASExpress segments, ftp into that RASExpress Server and download the USERLIST.CFG and USERINFO.OVL files to your local PC. Then ftp these files up to all of the other RASExpress Servers individually. Changes to the local data base does not require RASExpress to be restarted. For this procedure to be effective, all RASCards should be running the saem version of RASExpress.
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- Models: CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- I have RADIUS Accounting enabled, but I'm not getting any information sent to my authentication server from RASExpress. How can I be sure that Accounting is working in RASExpress?
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- Make sure Accounting is enabled in the Security section of Sever Setup. RAS Express 5.40 and higher supports separate Radius Authentication and Radius Accounting Servers. If a serperate Accounting Server is not defined, the accounting packets will be sent to the Radius Authentication Server. When Accounting is enabled (regardless if authentication and accounting is implemented through the same Radius Server or seperate Servers) RAS Express sends one accounting packet per event (one start packet at the beginning of a session and one stop packet at the end of a session). RAS Express can be configured to send multiple Accounting packets to the Accounting Server until it receives an acknowlegdement packet from the Accounting Server (This is referred to as enabling RAR).
To verify your current RAS Express Security settings use the Command Line Interface to RAS Express. Telnet to RAS Express on TCP port 7000 (or if TCP 7000 is not available, in the Server Setup Menu change the Telnet Interface setting to Command Line, exit your Telnet session and re-open it to RAS). Type the following commands to get a security overview:
get security protocol
get security primaryserveraddress
get security accounting
get security accountingserveraddress
get security rar
To make Security changes to RAS Express, use set instead of get and add the necessary parameter to the end of the command. For example, to enable the sending of multiple accounting packets type, set security rar enable.
RAS Express must be rebooted after any security parameters are changed. If security parameters are changed via the command line interface, the changes are saved automatically but you must enter the reboot command. Type help at the command prompt for additional commands.
Please Note: Versions of RASExpress prior to Version 5.50 do not report accounting information when the Dial in Client is an ISDN Digital client.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- I installed the Mac modem script(s), but where do I select the one to use in Classic Mac OS?
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- After the desired modem script has been installed, open the Modem control panel and select the desired Multi-Tech modem script for your use.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- I installed the Mac modem script(s), but where do I select the one to use in Mac OS X?
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- Open System Preferences from the Apple menu and select the Network pane. Make sure you have a dial-up device or port selected in the "Configure:" pop-up list and then select the Modem tab. Select the desired Multi-Tech Mac modem script from the "Modem:" pop-up list and then click on the Save button. You are now ready to use your Multi-Tech modem or terminal adapter.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- I want a Multi-Tech serial modem that is easy to install for my Mac. Which modem would you recommend?
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- Select the Multi-Tech modem that suits your application and order the Multi-Tech MacKit along with the modem. The MacKit includes a serial cable that is configured for Multi-Tech modems, terminal software, and fax software. The Kit makes installation easier and the terminal/fax software gives you added modem control not available in some serial Macs.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- My CommPlete Server is up and running; which files should I back up?
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- When you have configured your RASExpress server and have it fully functioning, back up four files from the RAS directory on the RAS Server.
Backup the CONFIG.RN file. This file contains system configuration information for the RASExpress server.
Backup the SERVER.CFG file. This file contains administrative passwords and profile information.
Back up the file USERLIST.CFG. This file contains all local security usernames and passwords.
Back up the file USERINFO.OVL. This file contains user profile and permission information for each entry in the userlist.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, EURO-PRI-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- My MT5634HD8/16 modems' 31.2-33.6 connections are SLOW. What can I do for faster connections?
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- There are a few reasons this may happen. The most common reason is that the user is calling in from a location that is routed through a telephone company switch circuit that creates an extra digital-to-analog conversion. Remote users are dialing with analog modems on an analog phone circuit. When the call reaches the telco, it is translated to digital signals. If the signal gets re-converted to analog at any point along the way, you cannot get a V.90 or K56flex connection. If a single user can get a V.90 or K56flex connection to the CommPlete, then the T1 connection between the CommPlete Server and the telco T1 switch is fine. If there is a problem between the CommPlete Server and the T1 switch, no one (not a single caller) would get a V.90 or K56flex connection. Again, it is critical that there are no extra analog conversions along the entire circuit. The basic circuit plan needs to look like this:
CommPlete <-digital-> T1 Switch <-digital-> Remote CO <-analog-> Caller
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- Models: MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- My WIN 98 Dial Up Networking Session Authenticates, but I am unable to Browse. How can I trouble shoot this?
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- Verify Configuration: Check the configuration of the PPP client (WIN 95/98 DUN Settings). Be sure the check box "Use Default Gateway On Remote Network" is selected in the "TCP/IP Settings" Dialog Box. If Radius Authentication is implemented, make sure the User entry in Radius contains the appropriate PPP attributes for dial in access.
Troubleshooting: From the computer that is dialed in, "Ping" a host computer on the Internet via IP address and then via Domain Name and compare the results. If the host replies via IP Address but not Via Domain Name then a DNS (name resolution) issue exists. Check to see Server Assigned DNS is selected in the TCP/IP Settings dialog box. If the Host computer does not respond to either ping method try 2 or 3 other host computers (via both methods). If you are unable to ping any computer on the Internet, try pinging a local network computer (the same network that the CommPlete is plugged into). If the ping is successful to the Local Network then a routing issue may exist with the local network to the Internet. If "pings" are successful yet browsing is not, try another browser. Also try to FTP and or Telnet to other host computers supporting these TCP/IP Applications. If these other applications work there is a problem with the browser and/or TCP/IP Protocol Dialup Adapter.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- Once the system is configured and running, what are the minimum things I need to know to monitor and administer the CommPlete System?
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- Using Telnet to communicate with the MR9600 Controller is fast, easy and encompasses most of the System's features and functions. Once logged into the controller, type ? followed by a carriage return and all available commands will be listed. Type Readme followed by a carriage return and release information about the controller will be displayed. The command "getmodems" gives the current state of the modems. The command "getcalls" displays call history information, up to the last 200 calls. Getcalls contain time stamps of when the call started and the duration, plus the connect type, speeds and user name of the PPP dial in client or Telnet user. The command "getfaults" displays, fault information such as failed calls, Telco line Alarms and device power on resets. It also displays system SNMP session status with SNMP Supervisors. T1/PRIstatus commands give current settings and Line status of the Digital Line. The controller consists of two drives, the A: drive is just over 1 meg in size and is considered non-volatile (ROM). Files placed on the A: drive will NOT be lost if the controller loses power or is rebooted. The A:\MMM directory contains system files for the controller. The B: drive is about 4.6 meg in size and is considered Volatile (RAM). Files placed on this drive WILL NOT be lost if the controller performs a soft boot. Files place in the B: drive will be lost if the controller loses power. All system and device events are logged in the event files. The event files are written on an hourly basis in the B:\mmm\Mr.log directory. These event files should be harvested via FTP on a regular basis and then processed by MultiCommManger's statisical analyzer for a complete system review.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- RADIUS authentication is not working. How can I troubleshoot RASExpress and RADIUS problems?
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- Verify Configuration: Make sure that you have RADIUS as the security type on your RASExpress Server. Make sure the Primary Server IP address is that of your RADIUS server. Make sure the Shared Secret Password (case sensitive) matches the "Key"/client password defined in the RADIUS Clients file. These parameters must be written to disk and RAS Express must be reboot for them to take effect. Make sure the IP address of the RASExpress Server is in the RADIUS Clients file. The Client Name must be the IP address of the RASExpress Server (not the server name). The Key must be the same as the Shared Secret Password that you have set in the RASExpress Server security section.
Trouble Shooting: Dial into the rack using HyperTerminal. If you can log in and get to a RASExpress menu, the RASExpress Server is communicating with RADIUS, assuming the security parameter "allow call if security server is down" is "disabled" ("allow call if security server is down" is a feature of RAS Express 5.40 and higher). If using a terminal works but using a PPP dialer does not, there could be an incorrect setting in RADIUS that is not allowing the remote user to connect via PPP, or possibly PAP authentication is turned off in RADIUS. If dialing from a terminal program works, try to dial in using the Win98 PPP dialer. Before dialing in, change the Connection Settings so the Terminal Window will appear after connection. Dial out using the Win98 dialer, but then type the Username and Password manually. Then choose Option #1 ( PPP Session) and click the Continue button. If this works, there is a problem with PAP authentication and RADIUS/the entry in the users file is set incorrectly. Go to General Setup of RAS Express and enable "write error messages to file". After an authentication attempt is made, FTP off the message file from RAS Express and view it. The statement of "username Radius Authentication Failed" means Radius denied the request. The statement of "Radius Authentication Timed out" means there is a communication problem at the IP level between RASExpress and RADIUS.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, EURO-PRI-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- Some callers say their modems will simply not connect with the V.90 modems in my CommPlete Server. What can be done to about this?
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- Some modems that were designed prior to the introduction of V.90 technology have a difficult time handshaking past the initial V.90 tone, known as the V.8bis tone. The CommPlete V.90 modems generate this tone almost immediately after going off-hook to answer a call. The first step in resolving this issue is to update your CommPlete modems to version x.09e or later, where x is 1 for MT5634HD8 modems and 2 for MT5634HD16 modems. Second, make sure that the users’ modems are at the latest firmware release. Recent revisions of V.90 server modems are making some client modems outdated, even modems with V.90 client firmware. Finally, if the first two suggestions don’t work for some users, contact our CommPlete Technical Support Group at 1-888-273-1610, and talk to one of our CommPlete Server technicians.
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- Models: MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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- What are the differences between the various CommPlete Server Kits?
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- The differences pertain to the total number of connections, the type of client (analog or ISDN) and the type of high speed digital line.
Each server kit consists of a RASCard, high-density central-site V.90 modem cards, and a high-speed digital access interface card. A RASCard is a single board computer with a processor, RAM, hard drive, on board video adapter and on board NIC. The hard drive comes pre-installed with Multi-Tech's RASExpress remote access software.
A server kit installs into an area of the CommPlete referred to as a segment. The 9600-Series (CCS-100 Starter) has four segments which are logically isolated from each other. The 2400-Series (CCS24-100 Starter) is a single segment solution. Each server(segment) is independently powered. For further chassis and system information please refer to FAQ #2 "What gives this product its name?".
The high-speed digital access interface is either a T1 card (24 B channels), PRI card (23B + 1D channel), or a EURO-PRI card (30B + 1D and Framing channels). For further digital line type information, refer to FAQ #3 "What do I need to know when ordering a high speed digital line for use with the CommPlete?"
The single T1 server kit supports up to 24 connections (dial-in or dial-out V.90 modem connections). It consists of one RASCard, one T1 daughter card and three MT5634HD8 V.90 modem cards.
The dual T1 server kit supports up to 48 connections (dial-in or dial-out V.90 modem connections). It consists of one RASCard, two T1 daughter cards and three MT5638HD16 V.90 modem cards.
The PRI server kit supports up to 23 connections. Either 23 dial-in ISDN connections or 23 dial-in V.110 connections or 23 dial-in or dial-out V.90 connections or any combination thereof, up to 23. It consists of one RASCard, one MTPRI-HD23B PRI card, one MT5634HD16 V.90 modem card and one MT5634HD8 V.90 modem card.
The EURO-PRI server kit supports up to 30 connections. Either 30 dial-in ISDN connections or 30 dial-in V.110 connections or 30 dial-in or dial-out V.90 connections or any combination thereof, up to 30. It consists of one RASCard, one MTPRI-HD30B PRI card, and two MT5634HD16 V.90 modem cards.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, EURO-PRI-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- What are the main applications for the CommPlete?
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- The CommPlete is ideal for Internet Service Providers, Enterprise LANs, and Corporate Intranet Applications requiring Remote Access solutions for up to 192 users (Dial Up PPP Clients). The CommPlete is ideal for Business Solutions requiring dial in and dial out modem access. Network Fax and Application Servers can directly access CommPlete modems via TCP/IP Sockets. Eliminating the need for; serial cards in the Fax/Application Server, RS-232 Cables and Legacy modem systems. The CommPlete also supports Dial In ISDN Digital calls for PPP connections and Dial In V110 calls at 9600 bps or slower.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- What can I do to test a system prior to bringing it online?
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- To test your system before announcing it to your users, follow these steps:
1. Configure the system according to the Quick Start Guide that is part of the CommPlete Manuals Kit. However, do not connect the Digital Line (T1 or PRI) to the CommPlete. Can you log into the Controller module and the RASCard via Telnet? If not, check the physical connection from the network to the CommPlete Server. The network cable should be plugged into the LAN port of the controller. Also, check the TCP/IP configuration of each device to which you cannot connect.
2. While logged into your Controller (version 2.41 or later) via Telnet, use the PING command to see if you can Ping your gateway, name server, and a known host on the Internet. If the controller can’t ping any hosts on the network, check the configuration of the controller. Be sure to match the Default Route to the IP address of the gateway and the Subnet Mask to that of your network.
3. Attach the digital line to the CommPlete. A PRI card must be reset after attaching the PRI line.
4. If it is a new T1 or PRI line, make sure that your telephone company has enabled it at the central office.
5. From the controller, check the status of the digital interface card by using t1status csn or pristatus csn (where csn is the card slot number of the device, for example t1status 1b is for the first t1 card in a cc2400). Make sure that the settings of the card match the provisioning of the digital line that your telco has provided. The alarm states of the card should extinguish within a minute. On a T1 card, the LED Status should be "Online." On a PRI card, the Layer 1 Status should be "Up," and the Layer 2 Status should be "MultiFrame Established." This status is also indicated by the PRI card’s LEDs: PHYS LINK and DATA LINK will be lit—and D CHANNEL will periodically change states—when the PRI card is ready to take calls.
6. Note the unique parameters of your Digital Line, such as the telephone number to use for dial-in, the nature of the line (dial-in only or two-way?), and whether it takes rollover calls from another line.
7. Set up a PC to dial into your server (remote Node). Configure the modem to leave its speaker on until it connects.
8. Dial into the server. Listen to the client modem’s speaker for answer\carrier negotiation tones (You may or may not hear a "ring back" when dialing into a CommPlete because ring back is an option of the digital line provider). If you get a busy signal, check the phone number you are dialing. If the phone number is correct, then check the T1 card’s or PRI card’s status as explained in step #5. If any alarms are indicated, the modems will not receive a ring. The digital line cannot be in an alarm state at any time. If an alarm is not present but you still have a busy signal, contact your digital Line provider. If the CommPlete modem answers and negotiates, wait to see if the server authenticates you. If not, check the security settings in your authentication server and RASExpress.
9. After being authenticated, ping the gateway from the remote PC. If that works, try surfing the Web with a browser. If you can ping the gateway, then you should be able to surf. If neither ping nor browsing works, check the IP settings of RASExpress.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- What do I need to know when ordering a High speed Digital Line for use with the CommPlete?
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- You need to know; what type of digital line service is available in the area where the CommPlete will be located, what is the type of remote client and who will originate the connection. The type of CommPlete hardware must match the type of digital line. The terminology and variables associated with ordering a digital line vary from provider to provider.
General Info: The digital line provider routes the channels of your digital line to the public switched telephone network. Instruct the provider to configure the channels for inbound, outbound or both, based on your needs. To achieve V.90 modem connections, digital-to-analog conversions cannot exist between your digital line and the Central Office switch, or between switches. Direct Inward Dialing (DID) is not supported. The digital line must be a "Standard T1", "PRI T1", "Japan PRI" or "Net5 PRI E1 (commonly called Euro PRI)". The main differences between these line types are as follows:
The Standard T1 has 24 DS0s/Time Slots/B_Channels. All 24 channels are available for calls/connections. The Standard T1 performs "signaling" with the "AB" signaling bits in each channel. This is known as Robbed Bit Signaling (RBS), sometimes referred to as "in band" signaling. Standard T1 lines are commonly used in the United States and also in Canada. Standard T1 lines only support voice/analog modem connections (V.90 speeds or slower).
The PRI T1 has 23 DS0s/Time Slots/B_Channels available to the End User for calls/connections, plus one D_Channel used to perform "signaling". PRI T1 lines support ISDN (64Kbps digital) or voice/analog modem connections.
The NET 5 PRI-E1 (European ISDN, NET 5) line has 32 Channels/time slots (0 through 31). 30 channels are available to the End User for calls/connections. Time slot 0 is used for framing information and time slot 16 is used for signaling and control information. Euro PRI-E1 lines support ISDN Digital or Voice/analog modem connections. Euro PRI lines are for use outside of North America.
For Single or Dual T1 Starter Kits, We support the following options:
Line Coding Options:
1. B8ZS (Binary 8 Zero Substitution) ("Clear Channel")
2. AMI (Alternate Mark Inversion)
3. ZBTSI (Zero Byte Time Slot Interchange) (Note that "B8ZS without transcoders" is not supported)
Framing Formats:
1. DS1 AT&T Extended Super Frame (ESF - non-ANSI)
2. DS1 AT&T D4 format (SF)
3. DS1 ANSI Extended Super Frame (ESF - ANSI)
4. DS1 ITU-T G.704 section 2.1.3.2 5. DS1 ITU-T G.704 section 2.1.3.1
FXS Signaling Options:
1. E&M Wink Start Conversion
2. E&M Immediate Start Conversion
3. Ground Start Standard
4. Loop Start Standard (Note that "DLY" (Delay) is not supported)
For PRI-Starter & Japan-PRI-Starter Kits, we support the following options:
Switch Types:
1. AT&T 4ESS
2. AT&T 5ESS
3. NT1 DMS100/250
4. National ISDN 2
5. Japan NTT
Line Codes:
1. Alternate Mark Inversion (AMI)
2. Binary 8 Zero Substitution (B8ZS)
3. High Density Bipolar 3 Zero (HDB3)
Framing Formats:
1. 12 Frame Multiframe (F12-D3/4)
2. 4 Frame Multiframe
3. Extended Super Frame
4. 72 Frame Multiframe - Remote Switch Mode (F72)
Error Correction (CRC4/6)
1. Enabled
2. Disabled
For Euro-PRI-Starter Kits, The switch type, line code and framing format are set by the NET 5 standard (Net5/European ISDN, HDB3 and ESF respectively). CRC4\6 on or off is the only parameter that is a variable.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, EURO-PRI-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- What gives this product its name?
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- All of the components needed to get your data from the PSTN (public switched telephone network) to your company's Ethernet LAN are in one chassis. Internally, the 9600 CommPlete is a four segment chassis. Each segment is independent. Each segment contains a Remote Access Server with High Density V90 modem cards. Each Remote Access Server (RAS Card) can be configured (hardware options) to handle up to two standard T1 lines or one PRI line. Each RAS Card runs Multi Tech's RASExpress. Each RAS Card plug's into a port of the CommPlete's internal 10/100 Meg auto-sensing Ethernet Switch. The CommPlete also contains a Management Controller. The Controller is used for initial configuration, system monitoring and system maintenance. The Controller is a proprietary computer that also plugs into a port of the internal 10/100 Ethernet Switch. Upon power up the controller loads a TCP/IP stack which allows the System Administrator to manage the CommPlete via TCP/IP applications. The physical connections to the rack are simple. The Telephone Company provided T1/PRI line/s plug into the CommPlete. The CommPlete's Ethernet LAN port plugs into your Company's Ethernet back bone. Attach a terminal to the RS-232 supervisor port for initial configuration. The redundant Power Supplies support AC voltages from 100 to 240, 50/60 Hz.
Please Note: The Network Protocols supported by the complete are TCP/IP and IPX. Access to the PSTN must be terminated by your local phone company via high speed digital T1 or PRI lines.
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- Models: CCS24-Starter, CCS24-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100, CCS-Starter-100-48v
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- What is RADIUS and what role does it play with regards to the CommPlete system?
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- RADIUS is an acronym for Remote Authentication Dial In User Service. RADIUS is a protocol for carrying authentication, authorization and configuration information between a Network Access Server (commonly referred to as a RAS \ Remote Access Server), which desires to authenticate its links (users of it's access ports) and a shared Authentication server.
A RADIUS Server is a single database of users that one or more access servers query to authenticate a user. Once a user is authenticated, RADIUS Accounting can be implemented to track usage and associated variables.
RASExpress (the remote access server within the CommPlete System) is a "client" of a RADIUS server. The RADIUS server contains a list of valid Clients and a list of valid "users". When a RADIUS client sends an authentication request to the RADIUS server, it must provide a Shared Secret (password) that only the RAS and RADIUS server know. When the RADIUS server receives an authentication request, it checks its client database (clients file) to validate the RAS making the request, then it checks it's User data base (users file) to validate the username, password and service type the user is attempting to implement (service type being, dial in PPP, dial out, Rlogin, SLIP and other configuration information).
Dial in users provide login credentials to RASExpress (via PAP or CHAP protocols for PPP sessions, or plain text data entry for terminal type applications). Dial out users provide login credentials via plain text data entry. RASExpress in turn provides these credentials via an authentication request to the RADIUS server. If the credentials are valid, the RADIUS server provides an authorization response with configuration information. If the username, password or service type does not match predefined information within the RADIUS server the user is rejected (not allowed access to the ports of the NAS). Upon completion of the authorization process, if RADIUS accounting is enabled, the RAS will send a "start" and "stop" packets containing vital information (time stamps, port number, service type, IP address of the user and other helpful information) at the beginning and end of the user's session.
For more information regarding RADIUS see Internet RFC2138 and RFC 2139.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, EURO-PRI-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- What is the Server Message file, and how can I use its contents for troubleshooting?
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- The Server Message file, SERVER.MSG, is an ASCII text file that contains the messages RASExpress generates when certain events occur. The scope of the messages ranges from port-specific events to global (server) events. Port-specific messages include (but are not limited to) usernames, connect speeds, and authentication messages. Server messages include (but are not limited to) shutdowns, drivers being loaded, and configuration changes. For the SERVER.MSG file to be generated, you must configure RASExpress to do so. You do this in a Telnet session with the RASCard by choosing Configuration of server | Server Setup | General Setup. Make sure that Write Error Messages to File is Enabled. RASExpress writes to the SERVER.MSG file until it contains 100KB of messages. At that time, RASExpress renames the file SERVER.MS1 to archive the messages; then, it continues writing new messages into a new SERVER.MSG file. There are five message archive files named SERVER.MS1 through SERVER.MS5. SERVER.MS1 is the most recent archive.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, EURO-PRI-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- What type of PPP connections does the CommPlete support?
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- The CommPlete supports asynchronous PPP connections with dial up Nodes (LAN to Client) and dial-up Routers (LAN to LAN ). LAN-to-LAN connections require the remote router to have its WAN port set to asynchronous communication. The CommPlete does not support synchronous PPP session. A dedicated leased line connection to a remote premise is not supported.
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- Models: 2T1-Starter, E1-Starter, JAPAN-PRI-Starter, PRI-Starter, T1-Starter
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- Why can't anyone connect to my CommPlete V.90 modems above 33.6Kbps?
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- There are a few reasons this may happen. The most common reason is that the user is calling in from a location that is routed through a telephone company switch circuit that creates an extra digital-to-analog conversion. Remote users are dialing with analog modems on an analog phone circuit. When the call reaches the telco, it is translated to digital signals. If the signal gets re-converted to analog at any point along the way, you cannot get a V.90 or K56flex connection. If a single user can get a V.90 or K56flex connection to the CommPlete, then the T1 connection between the CommPlete Server and the telco T1 switch is fine. If there is a problem between the CommPlete Server and the T1 switch, no one (not a single caller) would get a V.90 or K56flex connection. Again, it is critical that there are no extra analog conversions along the entire circuit. The basic circuit plan needs to look like this:
CommPlete <-digital-> T1 Switch <-digital-> Remote CO <-analog-> Caller
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- Models: MT5634HD16, MT5634HD8
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