CommLink IV Technical Guide
3
Operator Interface
CommLink IV Overview
The CommLink IV is used to transfer communications between control-
lers on your control system loops. It can also be used as an interface for
connection of a computer to your system.
The CommLink IV provides communication with the control system
through any computer that is running Prism software. For remote com-
munications, an IP Module Kit can be installed for LAN and Internet
connections or a Remote Link II can be connected for dial-up connec-
tions.
Optional IP Module Kit
The OE415-02 IP Module Kit, when installed and configured in the
CommLink IV communication interface, provides TCP IP Internet and/
or intranet connection for Ethernet networked computer systems allow-
ing them to communicate with your control system. The OE415-02 IP
Module Kit consists of the IP Module and a 10 ft. long CAT5 Ethernet
crossover cable.
Using standard TCP/IP Protocol, with WattMaster’s Prism software,
you are able to monitor and configure your controllers without a modem
or a direct connection from a PC. Utilizing existing routers, proxies,
or firewalls allows a PC running Prism to connect to a controller in a
remote accessible location or building. Several IP connection profiles
can be created to facilitate monitoring several CommLink IVs with IP
Module Kits installed on individual sites.
Optional Remote Link II
The OE419-06 Remote Link II is a 14,400 baud modem that can be
used with a CommLink IV or a computer. It is used to provide remote
dial-up communications with the CommLink IV. When it is used as a
computer modem (at the remote computer location), it connects to the
remote computer.
NOTE: WattMaster will not support any other internal or external
modems by other manufacturers.
The Remote Link connects to the CommLink IV communications inter-
face at the control system location via a DB9 serial cable. A telephone
line connects the Remote Link to the local phone service. Using another
Remote Link modem connected to a computer and phone service at
a remote location, you can monitor and control the system using the
Prism computer front end software. Connection is made by dialing the
telephone number of the job site where the Remote Link is located.
Installing CommLink IV ONLY
When you are using the CommLink IV in an application without a
computer, Remote Link II, or IP Module, follow Steps 1 & 2 in the
Quick Guide on page 4.
System Requirements
To program the CommLink IV to work with Prism, you will need:
Standard Items (Required)
• CommLink IV with USB cable and power adapter
• A PC with an Ethernet communications port or USB
port (supplied by others)
• USB drivers on CD-ROM (supplied and also downloadable
from any of our websites)
• Microsoft Windows®XP, Vista or 7
(must be installed on the PC you are going to use)
• Prism software (can be downloaded from any of our
websites)
Optional Items
• CommLink IP Module that comes with Ethernet RJ-45
Crossover CAT 5, 10 ft. long cable for LAN, and Internet
remote communications
• Remote Link II that comes with connection cables for
dial up remote communications
General Information
Revised 1/24/11
