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I posted this to another smaller list this morning (so, I don't think it'd
be cross posting), but it might answer some questions. The company mentioned
is BlackBox. They have a URL, but I don't know it. Phone is 800-552-6816.
Good luck,
Mark
Don,
I hope you haven't ordered the BlackBox stuff yet. Let me see if I can help.
I started with a simple one computer setup that grew to two then three then
four. So, I split the BMI feed once with the cheap (aprox $30) 25 pin three
way splitter. With the right cables you don't need pin converters (9 to 25
or 25 back to 9). If your cable lengths are under a total of 50 feet, this
solution will likely work. The 'load chip' in the BMI box will support up to
five devices. This is on the word of a smart techie friend.
The third split to the third computer was no problem. I had the three way
splitter already and the "total" cable lengths still didn't exceed 50 feet.
The fourth computer was a little more interesting. I ran another three way
splitter off one of the 'split' lines and ran a cable over the attic. Now I
had about 140 feet of total cable length (I'll get back to why I keep
referencing "total feet" in a second). So, 4 computers, 4 splits and 140
feet of data cable...Everything worked fine for a month or two, but I know I
was stretching it. Then it failed.
I spent a week checking output voltages at each computer, changing cables,
etc. etc., etc. Want to have some fun? Call Omega Tech support and ask what
the minimum signal strength is needed for their data server to recognize the
data stream. HA! I finally decided I needed to boost the signal strength.
One of the key elements in configuring your computer layout is signal
degradation. The cables the data flows over are RS 232 Standard cables. That
Standard was designed by the EIA (Engineering Industry Association (I
think)) and states "the combined cable lengths of cable sections should not
exceed 50 feet". Why 50? Why combined? I know not.
So, On to BlackBox (who I now love). The tech support recommended several
models of "broadcasting regenerators" (my paraphrase name). I chose a 4
port model and had it shipped overnight. The advertisement met all the specs
I could think of, so I thought I was on my way. HOWEVER, the unit I ordered
only allowed a throughput of 19.8K baud and BMI is humming in at 38K. The
baud rate limitation wasn't mentioned in their material. I called back
Saturday afternoon to verify this and they agreed. We decided the $515
dollar unit mentioned in the other post would fit the order. They paid to
ship me the new device and paid for me to return the old device. I did have
to open the box and set a dip switch to 'broadcast only' mode. Total setup
was a coupe hours, only because I was rerunning all the cables.
Now, it works flawlessly. And I am very confident in the reliability of the
setup.
So I would conclude your options would be:
1) If your computers are close together and close to the BMI box, the cheap
3 way splitter would probably be sufficient.
2) BlackBox has a one line (in line) regenerator for $105.00. It is AC
powered. I could look up the part number if you need it. You would probably
be safe with that just before the splitter.
3) Get the parts you mentioned in your posts if you want the added security
and stability.
4) Check out http://www.bb-elec.com/ I found this source after I had made
my purchase.
Sorry I didn't get this feedback to you sooner. I hope it helps.
Good luck,
Mark
P.S. I was saddened to later learn that splitting the BMI feed was in
violation of the exchange rules and BMI's contract, so, I immediately
disconnected the Line Sharer box and threw it down the street!
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-realtraders@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
[mailto:owner-realtraders@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Andrew
Sent: Wednesday, March 03, 1999 12:24 PM
To: RealTraders Discussion Group
Subject: Re: Splitter Cable
I have never done this, but I am told that a simple serial "Y" connector
will work
but if you are using trade station you have to turn off feed back from trade
station
to the box on your secondary computer. If you don't both will send messages
to the
box and confuse it.
Neil, when get a working solution, please let me know, as I am going to be
setting up
a second system shortly.
Thanks
Andrew S.
-----Original Message-----
From: Neil Kerr <nck1@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: RealTraders Discussion Group <realtraders@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Wednesday, March 03, 1999 10:20 AM
Subject: Splitter Cable
>I need to find a splitter cable so I can connect my BMI cable box to two
>of my computers. Thanks.
>Neil
>
>
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