Multiple Gateways per node

[Garrett Cook]

Is it possible to add a node to two or more gateways in the MAX software, such as to allow the node to go the best route (or, both routes) to avoid interference that may only happen at certain times?

[Kevin_H]

Hey Garrett,

This is not possible.  A node can only be connected with one gateway at a time.   You can configure nodes as router nodes, which allow them to dynamically mesh with each other and form other altnerate routes back to the gateway.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

Kevin

[Garrett Cook]

If we needed to move a node to a different location, which would use a different gateway, would we first need to remove it from the original network using the software, or can we just physically move it and then associate it to the new gateway?

[Kevin_H]

Hey Garrett,

In this situtation, you would remove the node serial number from the gateway in Measurement and Automation Explorer (MAX), and add it to the new gateway in MAX. You would then power up the node in its new location, and reset its network channel by holding the signal strength button down for 5 seconds.  This will allow the node to join a new network.

Kevin

[Garrett Cook]

So it sounds like the same instance of MAX software controls, or can control, multiple gateways...is that correct?

Garrett

[Kevin_H · Accepted solution]

Thats correct.  MAX can control multiple NI network targets. The 9791 appears just like any other NI network target.

Message Edited by Kevin_H on 10-12-2009 04:32 PM

[Garrett Cook]

If we did have a measurement node that was assigned to a gateway, and someone else set up a different gateway (using a completely different copy of MAX software) and tried to add that node's serial number to the new gateway, what would happen in that case?

Thanks,

Garrett

[Kevin_H]

Hey Garrett,

There are a two scenerios here, so let me see if I can address each one.

Scenerio 1

• Gateway A is on channel 15 with Node A attached and communicating.
• User adds Node A to Gateway B that is operating on a different channel (Any channel but 15).
• As long as Node A is not factory reset or told to disconnect from Gateway A (pressing the signal strength button for 5 seconds), the node will remain connected to Gateway A.

Note: If Node A is factory reset or told to disconnect, there is a chance Node A could find Gateway B before finding Gateway A.  In that case, Node A would join Gateway B, and not rejoin Gateway A.

Scenerio 2

• Gateway A is on channel 15 with Node A attached and communicating.
• User adds Node A to Gateway B on a that is operating on the same channel (Channel 15)
• In this case, Node A would remain connected to Gateway A until there was some sort of network event causing the node to drop off, or if the node resets (power cycle, user forced, etc).  In this case, Node A would begin scanning channel 15 again, and could run into to either gateway first, join up, and then not join the other.  This is obviously not a recommened setup.

Let me know if you need any further explaination.

Kevin