How To Set Up Remote Access on an OptixPanel

This video demonstrates the setup of remote access on a standard OptixPanel. It covers configuring the hardware, enabling enhanced discovery, setting up the connection with Remote Access Manager, and troubleshooting common issues. The process includes rebooting the device, enabling LAN interface settings, and generating a unique ID and password for secure remote access. Users are guided through connecting via VPN, allowing both LAN and WAN access, and verifying the firmware version. The video concludes with a look at managing connections, displaying a green icon for active devices, and confirming remote desktop functionality.

Step 1: Hardware Setup

1. Reboot the OptixPanel:

   • Begin by rebooting the OptixPanel to ensure it is ready for configuration.

2. Enter the Configuration Menu:

   • On the screen, press the button to edit the configuration menu.

3. Enable Enhanced Discovery on ETH1:

   • Navigate to the Interfaces menu.

   • Check the box to enable Enhanced Discovery on the ETH1:LAN interface. This is necessary to establish a local connection and verify that the equipment is ready for a VPN connection.

Step 2: FT Remote Access Configuration

1. Access FT Remote Access Menu:

   • Go to the FT Remote Access menu.

   • Press the Connect button, which will generate a random ID and Password. These credentials are required for the Remote Access Manager.

2. Save Your ID and Password:

   • Note down the ID and Password displayed on the screen. If you forget these details, you can return to the configuration page or use the Remote Access Widget within the HMI application to view them again.

3. Enable Pass-Through VPN Connection:

   • If you need pass-through VPN connectivity, ensure the checkbox is selected for both WAN and LAN network interfaces.

4. Enable Local Connection:

   • It is recommended to check the box to allow Local Connection. This enables the local connection tool to access the hardware on both LAN and WAN networks.

5. Confirm Firmware Version:

   • Ensure the firmware version of the OptixPanel is 4.0.2 or newer for successful remote connection setup.

Step 3: Remote Access Manager Setup

1. Install Remote Access Tools:

   • Before adding a device, ensure the Remote Access Tools are installed. You can download them from the Tools > Download section within the Remote Access Manager.

2. Add Device Remotely:

   • In the Remote Access Manager, select Add Device > Add Device Remotely.

   • A new screen labeled Add Device should appear. If this screen doesn’t appear, confirm that you have installed the required tools.

3. Enter ID and Password:

   • In the Add Device window, enter the ID and Password you collected from the OptixPanel’s FT Remote Access configuration page or from the Remote Access Widget within the HMI application.

4. Device Registration:

   • Once the device is found, the window will close, and the device will now appear in the Domain View of the Remote Access Manager.

Step 4: Device Status and Connection

1. Check Device Status:

   • The device will appear with a green icon next to it, indicating an active WAN connection and visibility to the Remote Access Manager.

   • If the icon turns gray, this means the Remote Access Manager can no longer detect the hardware.

2. Enable Device Operator Controls:

   • If you choose to enable Device Operator Controls, a pop-up window will appear on the HMI, requesting operator verification before proceeding.

3. VPN Connection:

   • If both LAN and WAN interfaces are enabled, you will receive an IP address in the private network. This will be visible in the VPN screen, where you can access the remote desktop session and monitor connections.

Step 5: Monitoring and Troubleshooting

1. Verify Remote Access:

   • The VPN tool functions similarly to the local connection tool and provides a similar interface for managing remote connections.

2. Troubleshooting Tips:

   • If the device doesn’t appear in Remote Access Manager after entering the ID and password, check the firmware version of the OptixPanel and confirm that the Enhanced Discovery and Local Connection settings are correctly configured.

   • Ensure the Remote Access Tools are up to date.

Conclusion:

Once you complete these steps, your Standard OptixPanel will be fully configured for remote access. The connection can be monitored through the Remote Access Manager, and you will have secure remote desktop access to the device.