A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up ControlByWeb Devices Banner

A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up ControlByWeb Devices

Introduction

ControlByWeb devices are powerful tools for remote monitoring and automation, but getting them connected can feel overwhelming if you’re new to networking. Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through two foolproof methods to set up your device, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a pro. Let’s dive in!

Method 1: The Basic Setup (Ideal for Beginners)

Use this method if: You’re setting up a single device and prefer simplicity.

Step 1: Adjust Your Computer’s IP Address
ControlByWeb devices ship with a default IP address (192.168.1.2). To “talk” to the device, your computer needs to be on the same network. Here’s how:

  1. Connect the device to your computer via Ethernet cable.
  2. Manually set your computer’s IP address:
    • Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
    • Right-click your Ethernet adapter > Properties > Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
    • Select “Use the following IP address” and enter:
      • IP Address: 192.168.1.1
      • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
    • Why this works: This puts your computer and device on the same “192.168.1.x” network.

Step 2: Access the Device’s Web Interface

  1. Open a browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and type: http://192.168.1.2/setup.html
  2. Log in with the default credentials:
    • Username: admin
    • Password: webrelay (all lowercase!)

Step 3: Assign a New IP Address

  1. Navigate to the Network Settings tab.
  2. Enter an IP address that matches your existing network (e.g., 192.168.0.50 if your router uses 192.168.0.x).
  3. Save settings and power cycle the device.


Pro Tip: Write down the new IP! You’ll need it to reconnect later.

Method 2: The Advanced Setup (For Existing Networks)

Use this method if: You don’t want to change your computer’s IP or are setting up multiple devices.

Step 1: Assign a Temporary IP via Command Prompt

  1. Connect the ControlByWeb device to your network (via router or switch).
  2. Open Command Prompt (Windows) and type: ARP -s [New_IP] [Device_Serial_Number]
    • Example: ARP -s 10.10.10.40 00-0C-C8-01-00-01
    • What’s happening? This temporarily assigns an IP to the device using its MAC address.

Step 2: Confirm Communication

  1. Ping the device to test the connection: ping -l 102 [New_IP]
    • A successful reply means you’re connected!

Step 3: Configure the Device

  1. Open your browser and go to: http://[New_IP]/setup.html
  2. Log in with the default credentials (same as above).
  3. Assign a permanent IP address under the Network Settings tab.

Pro Tip: After setup, clear the ARP cache with ARP -d to avoid conflicts with other devices.

Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

  1. IP Address Conflicts
    • Never connect two ControlByWeb devices with the default IP (192.168.1.2) at the same time. Set them up one by one!
  2. Case-Sensitive Passwords
    • The default password is webrelay—all lowercase. “WebRelay” or “WEBRELAY” will fail.
  3. Power Cycling Matters
    • After changing the IP, unplug and replug the device. Settings won’t apply until it reboots.
  4. Firewall/Antivirus Blocking Access
    • If the setup page doesn’t load, temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus.

When to Use Each Method

  1. Basic Method: Great for quick setups or if you’re offline.
  2. Advanced Method: Ideal for corporate networks or when you can’t alter your computer’s IP.

Final Thoughts
Setting up ControlByWeb devices is like learning to ride a bike—it feels tricky at first, but once you’ve done it, you’ll never forget. Whether you’re automating HVAC systems, irrigation, or industrial equipment, these steps will get you up and running. Happy configuring!