This guide provides detailed instructions on setting up a remote Ethernet connection via GateManager for efficient remote maintenance of PLC/HMI devices. Before initiating the process, it's crucial to ensure that the gateway is properly assigned to the customer, has an active contract within the mobileIoT Suite, and has an associated account with an active appliance in GateManager.

Starting with logging in to GateManager using authentication credentials, users are guided through the steps of establishing remote access to the gateway WebUI, including logging in with default credentials. The guide then explains two methods for establishing remote connections to devices connected to the gateway: using the Subnet agent or connecting all agents.

Subsequent steps cover installing/updating LinkManager software, initiating and closing the remote connection, conducting a ping test for connectivity stability, and manually entering the target IP address if necessary. The guide emphasizes the importance of properly closing the remote connection to ensure security.

By following these comprehensive steps, users can establish a secure and efficient connection to PLC/HMI devices via the ifm gateway for remote maintenance purposes.

To begin the process, log in to GateManager by navigating to GateManager and using your certificate and password for authentication.

Within GateManager, select the Desktop PC agent and proceed to click on the WWW button to establish remote access to the gateway WebUI.

Upon clicking the WWW button, a new window or tab will open in your browser, prompting you to enter the default username (which is typically admin) and the default password (which is usually the gateway MAC address). Upon successful authentication, your remote connection to the gateway WebUI will be established. Please note that the URL displayed in your browser indicates a remote connection, not a local one.

There are two methods to establish a remote connection to the devices connected to the gateway:

Select the Subnet agent and proceed to click the Connect button.

Alternatively, choose the Gateway/Appliance and click on the Connect All button. This method grants access not only to the subnet but also to the Gateway WebUI.

If the LinkManager software is not already installed, click on the Install/Update LinkManager button. Follow the on-screen instructions to download, install, and start the LinkManager software.

If LinkManager is already installed, simply click on the Start LinkManager button. The web browser window or tab will close automatically.

In GateManager, an active remote connection is indicated by a green lightning bolt on the relevant icons.

To ensure stable connectivity, perform a ping test on the target PLC/HMI device. If the ping response time is less than 200ms, the Codesys connection should be stable.

In cases where the implemented Codesys scan function fails to resolve the address, manually enter the target IP address.

After completing your tasks, it's important to properly close the remote connection. Click the Disconnect button in GateManager to ensure a secure disconnection.

Follow these comprehensive steps to establish a secure and efficient connection to the PLC/HMI devices via the ifm gateway for remote maintenance purposes.