1. Introduction
The VONETS VAP11S-232 is an industrial-grade mini 2.4GHz WiFi Serial Server, WiFi Bridge, Wireless Repeater, and WiFi Router. This versatile device is designed to facilitate seamless WiFi to wired (Ethernet) or wired to WiFi conversions, making it an ideal solution for various industrial, medical, and IoT applications. It offers long-distance, fast transmission, and stable performance.
2. Safety Information
- Ensure the device is powered by a DC5V-24V power supply. A 5V/2A power supply is recommended for optimal performance.
- The device features automatic overvoltage protection (up to 27V) and undervoltage protection.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures outside its operating range of -40℃ to 55℃.
- Keep the device away from water and high humidity environments.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this will void the warranty and may cause damage.
3. Package Contents
Please check the box for the following items:
- VAP11S-232 device (1)
- 2.4G External Antennas (2)
- Industrial rail mounting kit (1)
- Industrial power supply DC connector (1)
- USB power cable (1)
- User manual (1)
- Retail box (1)
4. Product Features and Highlights
- Industrial Grade Design: Robust construction suitable for demanding environments.
- Multi-functional: Operates as a WiFi Serial Server, WiFi Bridge, Wireless Repeater, and WiFi Router.
- Wide Voltage Support: DC5V-24V power supply with automatic overvoltage (27V) and undervoltage protection.
- High-Speed WiFi: 2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n protocol with up to 300Mbps wireless transmission rate.
- Extended Range: Two external 3dBi antennas for enhanced signal strength and longer transmission distance (100-200 meters point-to-point barrier-free).
- Serial Port Connectivity: Features 2*UART serial ports (TTL level LVTTL-3.3V or CMOS level-3.3V) with a default baud rate of 57600.
- Ethernet Port: One 10/100Mbps adaptive Ethernet port.
- Temperature Resilience: Operates reliably in temperatures from -40℃ to 55℃.
- Advanced Features: SSID broadcast switch, WiFi hardware switch, WiFi hotspot memory (up to 100 hotspots), SSA signal strength detection, configuration parameter import/export, and support for over 20 WiFi terminal devices simultaneously.
- Transparent Transmission: Supports IP layer and MAC layer transparent transmission for various bridge applications, including those with MAC layer encryption (e.g., AC managed APs, GoPro, Cisco APs, Hikvision surveillance systems).
5. Setup and Installation
5.1 Physical Connection
- Power On: Connect the USB power cable to the VAP11S-232 and plug it into a 5V/2A power source. The device supports wide voltage DC5V-24V.
- Antenna Placement: Ensure the two external antennas are attached and positioned at a 90-degree angle for optimal WiFi signal reception and transmission.
- Wired Connection: If using the device as a WiFi bridge or router, connect the Ethernet port of the VAP11S-232 to your computer or network device using an Ethernet cable.
5.2 Configuration via Computer
- Connect to Device: Ensure the VAP11S-232 is powered on and wired to your computer via Ethernet.
- Access Configuration Page: Open a web browser and enter the configured domain
http://vonets.cfgor the default IP address192.168.254.254. - Login: Enter the default User ID "admin" and password "admin", then click "Login".
- Scan Hotspots: Navigate to the "Scan Hotspots" section. The device will search for available WiFi networks.
- Select Network: Choose the desired WiFi hotspot from the list and click "Next".
- Enter Password: Enter the password for the selected WiFi hotspot.
- Apply and Reboot: Click "Apply" and then "Reboot" (or power off/on the device). The device will take approximately 1 minute to reboot. Wait until the LED light flashes normally.
- Verification: Once rebooted, the configuration is successful, and you can enjoy WiFi Internet.
5.3 Configuration via Smartphone
- Find MAC Address: Locate the MAC address of the VAP11S-232 (usually printed on the device).
- Connect to Device WiFi: On your smartphone, go to WiFi settings and connect to the VAP11S-232's default SSID (e.g., VONETS_2.4G_XXXXX). The default password is
12345678. - Access Configuration Page: Open a web browser on your smartphone and enter
http://vonets.cfgor192.168.254.254. - Login: Enter the default User ID "admin" and password "admin", then click "Login".
- Scan Hotspots: Navigate to the "Scan Hotspots" section. The device will search for available WiFi networks.
- Select Network: Choose the desired WiFi hotspot from the list and click "Next".
- Enter Password: Enter the password for the selected WiFi hotspot.
- Apply and Reboot: Click "Apply" and then "Reboot" (or power off/on the device). The device will take approximately 1 minute to reboot. Wait until the LED light flashes normally.
- Verification: Once rebooted, the configuration is successful, and you can enjoy WiFi Internet.
6. Operating Modes
The VAP11S-232 supports multiple operating modes to suit various networking needs:
- WiFi Serial Server Mode: Converts WiFi signals to serial port data and vice-versa, enabling communication for devices like medical equipment, industrial sensors, and PLCs. Supports one-to-one and one-to-many transparent transmission.
- WiFi Bridge Mode: Connects wired devices to a wireless network. Supports both IP layer transparent transmission (default) and MAC layer transparent transmission for specialized applications (e.g., AC managed APs, GoPro, Cisco APs, Hikvision surveillance systems).
- Wireless Repeater Mode: Extends the coverage of an existing WiFi network, improving signal strength and range.
- WiFi Router Mode: Provides wireless access to a wired network, acting as a standard WiFi router.
- WiFi Access Point (AP) Mode: Creates a new wireless network from a wired connection.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | VONETS |
| Model | VAP11S-232 |
| Type | Wireless WiFi Serial Server/Bridge/Repeater/Router |
| Wi-Fi Transmission Standard | 802.11b/g/n |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11.n |
| Frequency Band Class | Single-Band (2.4 GHz) |
| Wireless Transmission Rate | 300Mbps |
| Wired Transfer Rate | 10/100Mbps |
| WAN Ports | 1 x 10/100Mbps |
| LAN Ports | 1 |
| Number of USB Interfaces | 1 x USB (for power) |
| Power Supply | DC5V-24V (recommended 5V/2A) |
| Antenna Type | Retractable, 2 external 3dBi antennas |
| Transmit Power | 20dBm/23dBm optional |
| Max. Transmission Distance (Point-to-point barrier-free) | 100-200 meters |
| Serial Port | 2*UART serial port (TTL level LVTTL-3.3V or CMOS level-3.3V) |
| Baud Rate | Default 57600 |
| Operating Temperature | -40℃ to 55℃ |
| Supports WPS | No |
| Supports WDS | No |
| Support Mesh | Not Supported |
| With Modem Function | No |
| Certification | CE, FCC, RoHS, WEEE |
8. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check the VONETS official website for firmware updates. Updating the firmware can improve performance, add new features, and resolve potential issues.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the device within the specified temperature and humidity ranges to ensure longevity.
- Power Supply: Always use the recommended power supply (5V/2A) or a compatible DC5V-24V source to prevent damage.
9. Troubleshooting
- Cannot Access Configuration Page:
- Ensure the device is properly powered on and connected to your computer via Ethernet.
- Verify that your computer's network settings are configured to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
- Try using both
http://vonets.cfgand192.168.254.254in your browser. - Clear your browser's cache and cookies, or try a different browser.
- Frequent Disconnections:
- Check the signal strength (SSA function) of the connected WiFi hotspot. Weak signals can cause instability.
- Ensure the antennas are correctly positioned (90-degree angle).
- Verify that the power supply is stable and meets the recommended specifications (5V/2A).
- Consider updating the device's firmware to the latest version.
- Device Not Working with Specific Equipment (e.g., AC managed APs, GoPro, Cisco APs, Hikvision surveillance systems):
- In the configuration settings, change the "Transmission mode" from "IP layer transparent" (default) to "MAC layer transparent". This mode handles MAC layer encryption often used by such devices.
- Issues with Huawei or iPhone Hotspots:
- When configuring the device to connect to a Huawei or iPhone hotspot, ensure you select "SSID and password match" in the "Advanced Setting" under the upper-level hotspot password.
10. User Tips
- For optimal WiFi signal, always ensure the two external antennas are positioned at a 90-degree angle.
- If you encounter network conflicts or login issues, double-check that your computer's DHCP server is disabled or configured correctly, especially after changing parameters.
- The default login credentials for the web interface are 'admin' for both User ID and password. It is recommended to change these after initial setup for security.
- If you need to add more hotspots, use the "Continue Add" button in the configuration interface.
11. Warranty and Support
VONETS products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official VONETS website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or any inquiries, please contact VONETS customer service at support@vonets.com.
