System shell

All controllers have a system shell that provides low-level access to a few basic platform settings. Using a special power-up mode and a serial connection via an appropriate type USB cable connected to the controller, you can access this system shell from your PC. System shell is also available via SSH (Secure Shell) provided that SSH is enabled in the controller.

Typical usage is for initial controller setup, troubleshooting, or to create or restore a backup. Also, in the case of IP address mis-configuration, you can use the serial system shell to regain access to the unit.

Depending on your preference, you may wish to use the serial shell to set the controller IP address as an alternative to reconfiguring your PC’s IP address in Windows (to initially connect to a new controller). If done as the first step, afterwards you could connect normally (Ethernet/IP) and perform all the other Niagara software installation and platform configuration using Workbench and the Commissioning Wizard. This method would save you from having to re-configure your PC’s IP address settings in Windows: first to connect to the controller as shipped from the factory, and then back again to its original settings.

The following topics provide more details.