Ethernet Data Radios

The R70ER and DX700ER Ethernet Data Radios function as transparent Ethernet cable replacements by creating a wireless link that transmits standard Ethernet traffic between connected devices without requiring changes to device configuration.

Any Ethernet-based data can be transmitted, provided total network traffic remains within the radio’s throughput limits.

The connected devices (PLC, HMI, PC, etc.) treat the wireless link exactly like a wired Ethernet connection.

The R70ER and DX700ER are designed for:

• Cable replacement applications (point-to-point Ethernet links)
• PLC-to-remote I/O communications
• Machine-to-machine communication
• Large plant or campus-wide Ethernet extensions
• Applications requiring MultiHop (tree or star) topologies

Supported network topologies are:

• Point-to-point
• Star
• Tree (MultiHop)

Important: Broadcast-based star and tree topologies may introduce occasional packet loss. Control systems must be capable of re-requesting data (e.g., Modbus works well).

For best performance:

• Use low-to-moderate traffic applications
• Always use a managed Ethernet switch to prevent excessive broadcast traffic from overloading the radio

Radio data transfer rates are:

• 900 MHz models: 300 kbps raw data rate
• 2.4 GHz models: 250 kbps raw data rate

Actual usable throughput depends on:

• Network topology (point-to-point is fastest)
• Number of repeaters (each hop increases latency)
• Broadcast traffic volume
• Ethernet packet size

Point-to-point networks provide the highest throughput and lowest latency.

R70ER advantages are:

• Compact design
• Higher environmental rating (IP65)
• Wide temperature range

DX700ER advantages are:

• LCD configuration interface
• External antenna option
• Network diagnostics and site survey via LCD

General Network Requirements

• One radio must be configured as the Client
• Remaining radios must be configured as Server or Repeater
• Radios must be bound to form a secure network

R70ER Setup

1. Configure DIP switches (Client / Server / Repeater)
2. Apply power
3. Enter binding mode (triple-click the binding button)
4. Bind Server/Repeater radios to the Client
5. Exit binding mode
6. Verify LED operation

R70ER configuration is performed using:

• Base board DIP switches
• Radio board DIP switches (for transmit power, XML bypass options)

DX700ER Setup

1. Apply 12–30 V DC power

2. Use LCD menu:

• System Config → Network Radio → Role
• Set role to Client, Server, or Repeater

3. Bind radios:

• Radio Util → Binding

4. Perform Site Survey:

• Radio Util → Site Survey

The DX700ER also supports:

• Diagnostics menu
• Ethernet parameter configuration

Yes. A managed Ethernet switch is strongly recommended.

The radios forward all Ethernet traffic by default. Excessive broadcast or multicast traffic can overload the wireless link and cause network failure.

To prevent overload:

• Use managed switches
• Eliminate unnecessary traffic
• Turn IGMP snooping OFF (if required)

No. The radios operate as transparent Ethernet bridges and are not controlled via PLC programs or industrial Ethernet protocols.

• The DX700ER is configured using its LCD interface
• The R70ER is configured via DIP switches and binding button
• Site surveys must be initiated from the Client radio (via LCD for DX700ER)

Site surveys cannot be performed over standard TCP/IP from a PLC or PC.

Line of sight is not strictly required, but signal strength and achievable range improve significantly when there is an unobstructed path between radios. 

Always perform a site survey before permanent installation to verify signal quality at the intended mounting locations.