Galaxy: How do I setup a network time server on a display?

Potential Symptoms

  • Set a network time server on a Galaxy display

Environment

  • Product Family: Message Displays
  • Product: Galaxy, GalaxyPro, AF-3150, AF-3160, AF-3165, AF-3180, AF-3190, AF-3197, AF-3200, AF-3220, AF-3400, AF-3500, AF-3550, AF-3700, Electronic Message Center (EMC), Marquee, Electronic Message Board (EMB), Display, M2 & M3 Controller based products
  • Component: M2Config Utility Software, Ethernet Communication
  • Control System: Venus 1500

Cause

Please Note: To use Network Time Protocol (NTP) the sign controller must have internet access. If the sign is connected directly to just one control computer and not reachable over a local network, NTP will not work.
Warning: Misuse of this utility can render your sign inoperable.

Resolution

Step 1: Install M2Config. Follow How to download & install the M2Config Utility on your computer, DD2059662.

Step 2: Connect to the display using M2Config. Follow How To Connect To My Galaxy Display Using The M2Config Utility, DD2342173.

Step 3: Use M2Config to set a network time server on a M2 or M3 controller.

  1. After connection is established go to the Configuration tab & click the Communications folder.
    Configuration Tab communication folder.png 
  2. Click TCP/IP and verify that IP information is correct for the network and that DNS servers are set (If not, set them).  Use the DNS Server from your ISP (Internet Service Provider).  To find your current DNS server type "ipconfig /all" at the command prompt and look for the "DNS  Server" entry under Ethernet adapter.
    • DNS can also be setup to use public DNS servers.  The following are the Google DNS servers that could be used:
      • Primary server: 8.8.8.8
      • Secondary server: 8.8.4.4
  3. Click back onto the Display folder under the Configuration tab and click on Clock.
    Display Folder Clock.png
  4. Check the box next to Enable NTP Time Synchronization and enter the following info:
    • Primary Server: 0.daktronics.pool.ntp.org
    • Secondary Server: 1.daktronics.pool.ntp.org
    • Update Frequency: 720 minutes.
    • NTP (Network Time Protocol) is a protocol for synchronizing time over a network.
  5. Click the blue down arrow to set configuration or click on File and then Set Configuration.
    Enable NTP Time.png
  6. Verify you can ping 0.daktronics.pool.ntp.org and 1.daktronics.pool.ntp.org from a computer on the same network as the sign. If these cannot be pinged, NTP will not function as intended. Positive response to ping also does not guarantee the network has port 123 open to allow full function.

KB ID: DD2208009


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