Introduction
If you would like to supply a hard line internet connection to your controller or connect the controller to the internet via a mobile router and aircard or WiFi hotspot, you will need to configure your Router/Hotspot with a set IP address of 172.20.23.1 so that it is on the same network scheme as the controller, and not within any IP range used by controllers or other hardware.
There are a variety of mobile router brands and models for which ChronoTrack has supplied configuration files and instructions. If you already have a router of a different make or model, or you prefer a different brand, this guide will explain the general guidelines about how to configure most any router model.
• It is usually best for the router to be powered from the Controller which supplies 5 volts of power from a single USB port. Most routers come with a USB cable, but it is best to check before purchasing. If the router comes with a 'y-cable', this may be sufficient to power the router.
• For mobile routers, remember to check the modem compatibility list for your router to ensure that the USB modem you intend to use will work.
Configuring the Router
The first thing you will need to do is log into the router's admin interface. Often, this is accessed by opening a web browser, entering the Router's default IP into the address bar, and pressing Enter. Most routers have a Username and Password which are often found on the bottom or side of the router. Reference the instructions if you are unsure of how to access the admin interface.
If the router has multiple Ethernet ports, like the CradlePoint below, configuration will generally only be possible if you connect the Router to your computer with the WAN port.
Set the Router's IP
The most important part of configuring the Router is setting the router's IP address. MiniTrack controllers are configured to 'listen' for a router with an IP of 172.20.23.1. This is the IP address you should enter as the router's default IP. Normally, this IP will take the place of the IP you entered to access the admin interface.
Set SSID and Security Information
To prevent unauthorized users from logging into your router, it is best to set the router's login and password as something you'll remember but only you know.
If you want to be able to connect a laptop or other device to the router, you should also set the WiFi SSID (name) to something you'll recognize. Also set the SSID password. If offered the chance to choose an encryption type, WPA/WPA2 is usually best.
If Configuring as a Client...
In ChronoTrack documentation and terminology, a Client router is one that connects wirelessly to another router or a WiFi hotspot to provide connected devices with internet access. This is useful for 'networking' MiniTrack controllers wirelessly for Gatorless splits.
Remember that MiniTracks do not share reads, but simply pass data through.
Since you are configuring the Client router to connect to another Router or WiFi Hotspot, no change to the Client router's IP will be necessary, but you must configure the Client router to connect to the Host's WiFi network. This can be accomplished through the Client's admin interface or if the routers have a WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) button.
The Host router or Hotspot that will be supplying internet to the Client MUST be configured with the 172.20.23.1 address. You must also ensure that the Host router's WiFi modem is enabled and broadcasting its network.