Control Network Newsletter
Understanding BASrouter Routing Options
Contemporary Controls' BASrouter is commonly used to integrate BACnet MS/TP devices to a existing BMS network running over BACnet/IP. One of the most common tech support questions we receive is – does the router also support routing the other way, i.e., adding a BACnet/IP device to an existing BACnet MS/TP network? The answer to that question is "Yes".
The BASrouter supports routing between:
- BACnet/IP and BACnet MS/TP
- BACnet Ethernet and BACnet MS/TP
- BACnet/IP and BACnet Ethernet
- BACnet/IP and BACnet Ethernet and BACnet MS/TP
- Two BACnet/IP networks (between two UDP ports)
BACnet requests can originate from either side and are routed appropriately. All BACnet routers from Contemporary Controls support this functionality. The BASrouter supports 5 BBMD entries.
Besides the BASrouter, two additional models are available for different applications. The BASrouterLX is a high-performance router used to route messages between BACnet/IP, BACnet Ethernet and BACnet MS/TP networks. It supports 50 BBMD entries and incorporates a more powerful processor and memory. The BASrouterLX also supports the slave proxy feature to incorporate MS/TP slave devices in the network. It is DIN-rail mounted unit for use in fixed installations.
The Portable BASrouter is USB-powered unit that is easy to carry and is powered by any 5 VDC source through its USB connection. It is a great commissioning and/or troubleshooting tool for a technician that can be powered from the USB port of a laptop computer. BACnet MS/TP "Status" webpage with graphical table of present MS/TP device status and network statistics, in addition to a BACnet/IP "Routing" webpage with a discoverable routing table become useful when setting up or troubleshooting a BACnet network.
Visit the BASrouters page to learn more.