Ethernet radio connection

[MerlinKnight]

I have a network that i would like to add a ethernet radio too. The radio has an ip address that i can't access from my computer. I can't change the address of the radio because it is set up for another network.
The question is , do i just use a router to get to it from my computer or is there something else out there that will take a compatible address to me and then change it to the address of the radio. I think that still goes under router, right?

 

[LawnBoy]

Uhhh... what's an 'ethernet radio'? Do you mean a wireless access point?

Lots I don't understand about your question but let's start here.

 

[MerlinKnight]

Sorry, the ethernet Freewave radio talks to flow computers in the field and gets flow reading.

 

[LawnBoy]

OK, so the Freewave is communicating with a series of field devices via RF. I assume the Freewave is also connected (via ethernet) to some sort of SCADA network. Your PC is not connected to the SCADA network, and you need it to be.
Is this correct so far?

 

[MerlinKnight]

yes, that is correct. Just want to get some data.

 

[LawnBoy]

I also assume your PC is on another network.
You can use a router to allow the two networks to exchange traffic. If you're the only one who needs access to the Freewave, it would be much simpler to install a second NIC in your PC that is connected to the SCADA network.

 

[MerlinKnight]

I have 2 computers that needs to collect data. So should i use a router instead because of having to put a hub and 2 NICs.

 

[LawnBoy]

A router would be much more versatile, particularly when you need to hook up two more PCs next year (or whatever expansion may come along). This will require someone to set up the routing table.

The hub-and-extra-NICs idea is more of a tape-and-string approach, but requires less technical knowledge.

So it really depends on whether you understand enough about IP subnetting to config the router yourself (or can hire someone to set it up for you).