Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is an Internet protocol that automates the process of setting IP addresses for devices that use TCP/IP, and is the most common method of configuring a device for network use. Most networks include a DHCP server to manage IP addresses. When a DHCP server is available on the network, DHCP is the preferred IP address assignment mode.
To determine if a network is set up for DHCP,
1. Connect the LMR Master to the network and select DHCP protocol in the Ethernet Config menu.
2. Turn the LMR Master off, and then on. If the network is set up for DHCP, the assigned IP address should be displayed briefly after the power up sequence.
When using DHCP, no setup is required to lease and use a dynamic IP address. In a dynamic IP operation, the IP address in use may change from use to use. The DHCP server hands out IP addresses on a first come, first served basis. As soon as the device is disconnected from the network, the IP address that it was using becomes available to lease to the next unit that requests an IP address. Normally, some amount of lag time is present on the DHCP server end, so if the device is connected again reasonably soon, then it may end up with the same address.
Note
The instrument may need to be connected to the network before it is turned on in order for DHCP to function. Key elements of the DHCP lease are performed during the instrument startup operations or when switching from manual to DHCP, and may not reliably synchronize during normal operation.