DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It is a protocol that allows a server to dynamically assign IP addresses to devices that are connected to the network. 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.
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.
When a DHCP server is not available, a Static IP address can be used. A Static IP address is a fixed address. After being set, it will always remain the same, and care must be taken to not conflict with other equipment on the network.
When using a static IP address on an established network, always request the Static IP address from the network administrator. Randomly choosing a Static IP address on an established network may result in duplicate IP addresses or other conflicts.
Three parameters must be set prior to using a Static IP address:
IP Address
This is the Static IP address on the network.
Default Gateway
Often when a static IP address is assigned, a default gateway is also identified. If the default gateway is unknown, then type in the Static IP address so that the Static IP address and Default Gateway are the same number.
Subnet Mask
This parameter is usually extracted from the Static IP address based on the class of the address and determines the destination of any broadcast messages that might be sent from the instrument. It can be customized if necessary. The subnet mask may also be provided with the Static IP address.
Example 1
In this example, a Static IP address has been chosen because no network DHCP service is available. The instrument is connected to the network port on the PC with a crossover Ethernet cable (not included). This is also referred to as Direct Connect:
IP Address: 10.0.0.2
Default Gateway: 10.0.0.2
Subnet Mask: 255.255.0.0
Example 2
In this example, the Static IP address has been assigned with an associated gateway and subnet mask: