How to access/control an RT controller in a remote place

[MemoryGrowth]

I've been using an RT controller (PXI-8108) directly connected to my PC via an Ethernet cable. Now it would be convenient if I can place the PXI in some distant place and monitor/control it without physically being there. The PXI is currently set up with a static IPv4 address. I use Windows Explorer to open the ftp server and manipulate data files on the PXI. To open the front panel of the main VI running on the PXI, I run a small VI containing an Invoke Method called Remote Panel: Open Connection to Server where the IP address, server port and the VI's name are input, on my PC connected to the PXI.

What I want to figure out is:

Would it be possible to retain the same full funtionality when I connect my PC and the PXI through the company network? If so, how can I make the connection work? I'd like to get some tips on network settings.

Also, what about, say, placing the PXI in a far-away foreign country and monitoring it at home? Is it viable?

Any tips/share of experience will be appreciated.

[P@Anand]

I have worked on office PC with the RT connected to the office network for that you have to have a static IP that is assigned by your IT team. You have to get assigned the IP address depending on the MAC address of your RT and then configure that into your RT controller. Now it is same as how you connect your RT with the PC but am not sure whether you can directly connect with an RT which is in other countries as there are lot of restrictions.

[Ryan-C]

Hi there,

You can do this across any network, as long as you have access on that network.  I would recommend setting a static IP address for your Real-Time controller, as the poster above indicated.  It would probably be a good idea for you to set this up with your IT administrator, as he/she may have dedicated IP addresses for you.

Other things to watch out for, especially in a company office, are firewalls and anti-virus software on your computer, which may inhibit the ability to communicate with the device in Measurement & Automation Explorer.

Talk to your IT department to make sure that you can be granted access to the network.  This also applies to foreign networks; it is possible to connect to your controller on any other network, but you will have to work with your IT department in order to obtain access remotely.  For example, you may need to set up VPN.

Best,

[MemoryGrowth]

Thanks for the input. I talked to the IT department and they gave me a static IP address. With small tweaks in the code, I am able to monitor and control the program in my office!