Connecting to a Network for Remote Control

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Overview of Network Connectivity

The RF Explorer Pro is a standalone host computer, meaning it cannot be directly connected to a PC via USB like a traditional peripheral. Instead, it requires network access to enable remote operation from a computer, tablet, or mobile device.

To achieve this, the RF Explorer Pro can be connected to a wired network using a USB-to-Ethernet adapter. Once connected, the device can be accessed remotely using VNC (Virtual Network Computing) from any compatible device (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).

Best Connection Method

  • A wired Ethernet connection is the most stable and interference-free way to access RF Explorer Pro remotely.
  • Only the USB 3.0 Type-A port can be used for connecting a USB-to-Ethernet adapter—the USB-C port is not for network access.
  • WiFi dongles are not recommended, as they introduce RF interference, affecting measurement accuracy. If a WiFi dongle is necessary, it should be placed at least 2 meters (6 feet) away from the analyzer using a USB extension cable.
  • A recommended USB-to-Ethernet adapter is the TP-Link UE300, which provides reliable compatibility and a plug-and-play experience.

Detailed Connection Setup and Remote Access Guide

Hardware Requirements

1

To set up network access for RF Explorer Pro, you will need:

  • A USB-to-Ethernet adapter (such as the TP-Link UE300).
  • An Ethernet cable to connect the RF Explorer Pro to your router or switch.
  • A VNC viewer installed on a PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, or Android device (e.g., RealVNC, TightVNC).
  • (Optional) A USB hub if additional USB 3.0 ports are needed.
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Setting Up the Ethernet Connection

2


To connect the RF Explorer Pro to a wired network, follow these steps:

  1. Connect the USB-to-Ethernet Adapter
    • Plug the USB-to-Ethernet adapter into the USB 3.0 Type-A port on the RF Explorer Pro.
    • If additional USB ports are needed, you can use a USB hub.
  2. Connect to Your Network
    • Insert an Ethernet cable into the USB-to-Ethernet adapter.
    • Plug the other end into your router or network switch for stable network access.
  3. Verify the Connection in Network Settings
    • On the RF Explorer Pro screen, tap the System button (highlighted in the first image).
    • Then, tap the Network icon to access network settings (marked as step 2 in the image).

Verifying Network Connectivity

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Once the network adapter is connected, check if the RF Explorer Pro has successfully joined the network:

  1. Open Network Details on RF Explorer Pro
    • Tap the Network name icon or go to Network & Internet settings (shown as step 3 in the second image).
    • Tap on the connected network name to access more details (step 4 in the image).
    • Locate the IP address assigned to RF Explorer Pro in the properties section (step 5).
  2. Confirm Connectivity from a PC
    • On a PC connected to the same network, open a command prompt or terminal.
    • Type ping <RF Explorer Pro's IP address> and press Enter (e.g. 192.168.1.150 in the image).
    • If the device responds, the connection is successfully established, and the RF Explorer Pro is accessible via the network.
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Accessing RF Explorer Pro via VNC

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  • Open a VNC Viewer on Your Remote Device
    • Install and launch a VNC viewer such as RealVNC or TightVNC on a PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, or Android device.
  • Enter the RF Explorer Pro’s IP Address
    • In the VNC viewer, input the RF Explorer Pro’s IP address (previously obtained from the Network Settings).
  • Establish the Remote Connection
    • Once connected, the full RF Explorer Pro interface will be displayed on your screen.
    • You can now operate the RF Explorer Pro remotely, just as shown in the image.
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Best Practices for Reliable Remote Access

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  • Use wired Ethernet with quality cable to minimize interference.
  • If WiFi is required, use a long USB extension cable to keep the WiFi dongle away from the RF Explorer Pro to reduce RF interference.
  • Ensure the USB-to-Ethernet adapter is properly connected and detected by the RF Explorer Pro before attempting VNC access.
  • Be aware that no password is set by default on the RF Explorer Pro’s VNC server. This means anyone who knows the device's IP address can connect to it.
  • If security is a concern, you can:
    • Set a VNC password to restrict access.
    • Limit access to specific IP addresses by configuring firewall rules on your network.
  • Always verify that your network settings are correctly configured and that your RF Explorer Pro is assigned a stable IP address to avoid connectivity issues.
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