Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Connection Options

There are two primary ways to connect a SubStation to a BaseStation 3200 controller, depending on whether the devices are located at the same site or in different locations.

Local Area Connection (On-Site): When the SubStation and BaseStation 3200 are located at the same physical site, you can connect them directly using radios or Ethernet. The radio connection creates a wireless local area connection where the controller and SubStation communicate directly with each other on-site. Alternatively, you can use an Ethernet cable to establish a local area network connection between the two devices.

Internet Connection (Remote): When the SubStation is located remotely—whether across town, in another state, or even in another country—the devices communicate through the web rather than directly. In this configuration, the SubStation connects to BaseManager via Ethernet or cellular modem, and the BaseStation 3200 manages it through the cloud.

Connecting a Remote SubStation to BaseManager

When setting up a SubStation that will communicate through the internet, you first need to connect it to BaseManager and obtain an authorization PIN code.

1. Connect the SubStation to the internet by plugging an Ethernet cable into it.

2. Complete the BaseManager connection process (similar to connecting a 1000 series controller). BaseManager will send you back an authorization PIN code.

3. Navigate to Admin Manager in BaseManager.

4. Select Manage Substations.

5. Click Add a New Substation.

6. Enter the authorization PIN code you received from BaseManager.

7. Choose the site you want to connect the SubStation to from the available options.

8. Click Add to complete the connection to BaseManager.

Assigning the SubStation to a BaseStation 3200

After connecting the SubStation to BaseManager, you need to assign it to the specific BaseStation 3200 controller that will manage it.

1. In Admin Manager, navigate to Manage 3200s.

2. Locate and select the BaseStation 3200 controller you want to use to manage the SubStation.

3. Add the SubStation to that controller.

This process connects the SubStation to BaseManager first, then allows you to choose which controller manages it.

Connectivity Costs and Cellular Option

When a SubStation is connected through the internet (rather than through a local area connection), there is an annual service fee of $99 per year for the cloud connectivity.

If the remote site where you want to install the SubStation does not have Ethernet access, you can install a cell modem in the SubStation instead. The SubStation will then communicate with the controller through the cloud using the cellular connection. There is no additional charge for the cell modem connection itself.

Video Walkthrough

Video originally published May 2021.

If you have questions, here are 3 ways to get answers:

1. Search within this HydroPoint knowledgebase

2. Visit the HydroPoint support page

3. Call 800-362-8774 or email support@hydropoint.com, hours are Mon-Fri 3:00 AM – 6:00 PM PT and Sat 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM PT.