¶ Introduction
The 22 IDEX V4 printer for Department of Defense (DoD) customers is configured specifically for secure, wired-only network connectivity. As per standard DoD procurement requirements, these machines are shipped without a WiFi module installed, ensuring that all network communication occurs exclusively through Ethernet connections. This configuration meets security requirements for environments where wireless connectivity is restricted or prohibited.
This manual is designed for DoD customers who need to establish a network connection using only the Ethernet interface. Unlike standard 22 IDEX V4 printers that support both WiFi and Ethernet, your machine relies entirely on wired Ethernet connectivity. The printer includes an automatic network detection system that simplifies the setup process by testing your Ethernet connection and configuring the appropriate network mode.
By the end of this guide, you'll understand how to verify your WiFi module has been removed, connect your printer via Ethernet to either a network switch/router or directly to a computer, and access the printer's web interface for operation and monitoring.
Important: This manual is specifically for DoD customers with machines configured for Ethernet-only operation. If your machine has a WiFi module installed, you must remove it before proceeding with this setup.
¶ Prerequisites
Before beginning the Ethernet setup process, ensure you have the following:
¶ Required Equipment:
- 22 IDEX V4 Printer: Configured for DoD (no WiFi module)
- Ethernet Cable: Cat5e or better, appropriate length for your setup
- Network Infrastructure: One of the following:
- Network switch or router with available Ethernet port (for Regular Ethernet Mode)
- Computer with Ethernet port or USB-to-Ethernet adapter (for Ethernet to PC Mode)
¶ Required Access:
- Physical Access: Ability to access the printer's control board to verify WiFi module removal
- Network Access: Ability to connect to your network infrastructure or configure computer network settings
- Administrative Privileges: If connecting directly to a computer, you'll need permission to modify network settings
Note: DoD machines are shipped without WiFi modules by default if requested during procurement. However, always verify the module has been removed before proceeding.
¶ Step 1: Verify WiFi Module Removal
DoD machines are shipped without WiFi modules. Verify the module has been removed before connecting to your network.
¶ Verification Steps
- Power off the printer and unplug the power cable.
- Open the left-hand rear door (as viewed from the back).
- Locate the control board and check near the Ethernet port—the WiFi module socket should be empty.
If the socket is empty, close the door and proceed to Step 2.
If a WiFi module is installed (small circuit board in the socket):
- Disconnect the antenna cable (if present)
- Gently pull the module straight up from the socket
- Store in an anti-static bag
- Close the rear door
Warning: Operating a DoD machine with an active WiFi module may violate your facility's security policies.
¶ Step 2: Choose Your Ethernet Connection Method
Your 22 IDEX V4 printer supports two distinct Ethernet connection modes. Choose the method that best fits your network infrastructure and security requirements.
¶ Option 1: Regular Ethernet Mode (Network Switch/Router)
Regular Ethernet Mode connects your printer to your existing network infrastructure through a switch or router using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).
Characteristics:
- Printer automatically obtains an IP address from your network's DHCP server
- Multiple devices on your network can access the printer
- Integrates seamlessly with existing network infrastructure
- Recommended for most DoD installations with standard network infrastructure
When to Use:
- You have an established network with a DHCP-enabled switch or router
- Multiple workstations need access to the printer
- You want automatic IP address management
- Your facility's network security policies permit DHCP-based device enrollment
Proceed to: Connecting via Regular Ethernet Mode
¶ Option 2: Ethernet to PC Mode (Direct Computer Connection)
Ethernet to PC Mode creates a direct point-to-point connection between the printer and a single computer using static IP addresses.
Characteristics:
- Printer uses a fixed IP address (default:
192.168.1.50) - Only the directly connected computer can access the printer
- Requires manual IP configuration on both printer and computer
- No network switch or router required
- Complete network isolation
When to Use:
- You do not have access to a network switch or DHCP server
- Security policies require isolated, point-to-point connections
- Only one workstation needs printer access
- The printer must be physically isolated from the broader network
- You need maximum control over network addressing
Proceed to: Connecting via Ethernet to PC Mode
Important: Once you choose a connection method and complete the setup, the printer will automatically use that method after each restart. You can change modes later if your requirements change.
¶ Connecting via Regular Ethernet Mode
This section covers connecting your printer to a network switch or router using automatic DHCP configuration.
¶ Step-by-Step: Connect to Network Switch/Router
¶ 1. Verify WiFi Module Removal
Ensure you completed Step 1 and verified the WiFi module has been removed from the printer.
¶ 2. Connect Ethernet Cable (Machine OFF)
- Ensure the printer is powered OFF.
- Locate the Ethernet port on the side of your printer (near the control board).
- Plug one end of your Ethernet cable into the printer's Ethernet port.
- Plug the other end into an available port on your network switch or router.
- Verify the connection:
- Check that the cable is firmly seated in both ports
- Link LEDs on the switch/router should illuminate when cable is connected
¶ 3. Power On and Observe LEDs
- Turn on the printer using the power switch.
- Look inside the printer chamber and observe the LED lights.
- Wait 60 seconds for automatic network detection to complete.
LED Status After 60 Seconds:
- 🟡 Yellow LEDs: Connection successful! Proceed to Step 4.
- 🔴 Red LEDs: Connection failed—see troubleshooting section.
Note: The printer automatically detects the Ethernet connection, requests an IP address from your network's DHCP server, and configures itself. This process takes up to 60 seconds.
¶ 4. Check Touchscreen for Connection Prompt
When the printer successfully connects (yellow LEDs appear), the touchscreen will display a pop-up:
Pop-up Title: Network Connected - IP: [your IP address]
Message: Do you want to remember this network mode after restart?
Buttons:
- Save network configuration - Printer will automatically use Ethernet mode after every restart
- Don't save - Printer will attempt the previously configured mode on next startup
Important: The pop-up shows your printer's IP address (example: 192.168.1.150)
¶ 5. Connect to Web Interface First
Before saving the network mode, verify the connection works:
- Write down the IP address shown on the touchscreen pop-up
- Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network
- Enter the IP address in the address bar (example:
http://192.168.1.150) - Verify the web interface loads successfully
Alternative: You can also try
http://22idex.localinstead of the IP address
¶ 6. Save Network Configuration
After confirming the web interface works:
- Return to the printer's touchscreen
- Tap "Save network configuration" on the pop-up
- The printer will remember this network mode after every restart
Recommendation: Always save the configuration after verifying the connection works.
¶ 7. Verify Connection Persistence (After Restart)
Test that the printer automatically reconnects after restart:
To verify:
- Turn off the printer using the power switch.
- Turn on the printer and wait 60 seconds.
- Look inside the chamber at the LED lights:
- ⚪ White LEDs: Configuration saved correctly—printer is working normally
- 🟡 Yellow or 🔴 Red LEDs: Setting was NOT saved
If LEDs are NOT white after 60 seconds:
- Reconnect to the printer's web interface
- Navigate to Macros > System > Settings > Network
- Select Enable Ethernet Mode
- Restart the printer and verify white LEDs appear after 60 seconds
¶ Troubleshooting Regular Ethernet Mode
If you encounter connection issues, refer to the Troubleshooting Section for detailed solutions.
¶ Connecting via Ethernet to PC Mode
This section covers creating a direct Ethernet connection between your printer and a single computer using static IP addresses. This method provides complete network isolation and is ideal for secure environments where the printer must not be connected to a broader network.
Warning: This is an advanced configuration method that requires manual IP address configuration on your computer. Only use this mode if you cannot connect to a network switch/router or if security policies require isolated connections.
¶ Step-by-Step: Direct Connection to Computer
¶ 1. Configure Your Computer's Network Settings FIRST
Before connecting the printer, you must configure your computer with a static IP address that will allow communication with the printer.
Required Computer Configuration:
- IP Address:
192.168.1.51 - Subnet Mask:
255.255.255.0 - Gateway: Leave empty or set to
192.168.1.50
Critical: Your computer and printer must be on the same subnet. The first three numbers must match:
192.168.1.xxx— only the last number should be different (printer:.50, computer:.51).
¶ Configure Network Settings - Windows
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet
- Click on your Ethernet adapter
- Click Edit next to "IP assignment"
- Select Manual
- Enable IPv4
- Enter the following values:
- IP address:
192.168.1.51 - Subnet mask:
255.255.255.0 - Gateway: Leave empty or enter
192.168.1.50
- IP address:
- Click Save
¶ Configure Network Settings - macOS
- Open System Preferences > Network
- Select your Ethernet connection
- Click Advanced
- Go to the TCP/IP tab
- Set Configure IPv4:
Manually - Enter the following values:
- IP Address:
192.168.1.51 - Subnet Mask:
255.255.255.0 - Router: Leave empty or enter
192.168.1.50
- IP Address:
- Click OK, then Apply
¶ Configure Network Settings - Linux
- Open your network settings (varies by distribution)
- Select your Ethernet connection
- Change connection method to Manual
- Enter the following values:
- Address:
192.168.1.51 - Netmask:
255.255.255.0 - Gateway: Leave empty or enter
192.168.1.50
- Address:
- Save and apply the settings
Important: After configuring these settings, your computer's Ethernet adapter will NOT have internet access. Use WiFi or a separate network adapter if you need internet connectivity while connected to the printer.
¶ 2. Verify WiFi Module Removal
Ensure you completed Step 1 and verified the WiFi module has been removed from the printer.
¶ 3. Connect Ethernet Cable (Machine OFF)
- Ensure the printer is powered OFF.
- Locate the Ethernet port on the side of your printer (near the control board).
- Plug one end of your Ethernet cable into the printer's Ethernet port.
- Plug the other end directly into your computer's Ethernet port (or USB-to-Ethernet adapter).
- Do NOT connect to a router or switch—this must be a direct point-to-point connection.
¶ 4. Power On and Observe LEDs
- Turn on the printer using the power switch.
- Look inside the printer chamber and observe the LED lights.
- Wait 60 seconds for automatic network detection to complete.
LED Status After 60 Seconds:
- 🔵 Blue LEDs: Configuration successful! Proceed to Step 5.
- 🔴 Red LEDs: Configuration failed—see troubleshooting section.
Note: The printer attempts DHCP first (finds no DHCP server), then automatically configures Ethernet to PC mode with static IP
192.168.1.50. This process takes up to 60 seconds.
¶ 5. Check Touchscreen for Connection Prompt
When the printer successfully connects (blue LEDs appear), the touchscreen will display a pop-up:
Pop-up Title: Network Connected - IP: 192.168.1.50
Message: Do you want to remember this network mode after restart?
Buttons:
- Save network configuration - Printer will automatically use Ethernet to PC mode after every restart
- Don't save - Printer will attempt the previously configured mode on next startup
Important: The pop-up confirms the printer's IP address is 192.168.1.50
¶ 6. Connect to Web Interface First
Before saving the network mode, verify the connection works:
- Open a web browser on your computer
- Enter
http://192.168.1.50orhttp://22idex.localin the address bar - Verify the web interface loads successfully
¶ 7. Save Network Configuration
After confirming the web interface works:
- Return to the printer's touchscreen
- Tap "Save network configuration" on the pop-up
- The printer will remember this network mode after every restart
Recommendation: Always save the configuration after verifying the connection works.
¶ 8. Verify Connection Persistence (After Restart)
Test that the printer automatically reconnects after restart:
To verify:
- Turn off the printer using the power switch.
- Turn on the printer and wait 60 seconds.
- Look inside the chamber at the LED lights:
- ⚪ White LEDs: Configuration saved correctly—printer is working normally
- 🔵 Blue or 🔴 Red LEDs: Setting was NOT saved
If LEDs are NOT white after 60 seconds:
- Reconnect to the printer's web interface at
http://192.168.1.50 - Navigate to Macros > System > Settings > Network
- Select Enable Ethernet to PC Mode
- Restart the printer and verify white LEDs appear after 60 seconds
¶ Troubleshooting Ethernet to PC Mode
If you encounter connection issues, refer to the Troubleshooting Section for detailed solutions.
¶ Connection Logs and Diagnostics
The printer automatically saves connection information to help with troubleshooting.
Saved File Location: 0:/IP_address.txt (on the printer's SD card)
Contents:
- Network mode (Ethernet or Ethernet to PC)
- Assigned IP address
- Connection timestamp
To access this information:
Method 1: Using Console Command
- Access the printer's web interface
- Go to the Console tab
- Type:
M552 I0 - Press Send
- The printer displays its current IP address and connection status
Method 2: Remove SD Card
- Power off the printer
- Remove the SD card from the printer
- Insert the SD card into a computer
- Open the file
IP_address.txtto view connection details
¶ Troubleshooting Ethernet Connection Issues
This section provides detailed troubleshooting steps for common network connectivity issues specific to DoD machines.
¶ Red LEDs After 60 Seconds - Network Communication Blocked
Symptoms:
- Ethernet cable is connected
- Printer powered on and startup complete
- Chamber LEDs remain RED for more than 60 seconds
- Printer is not accessible via any IP address
What This Means:
Red LEDs persisting after 60 seconds indicate that the printer cannot communicate with your network infrastructure. The printer has attempted all available Ethernet connection methods (Regular Ethernet Mode and Ethernet to PC Mode) and all have failed.
Most Likely Causes:
- Network security policies blocking the printer
- DHCP server refusing to assign an IP address
- MAC address filtering enabled on the network
- Network port security or authentication requirements
- Firewall blocking printer communication
- VLAN configuration preventing device enrollment
¶ Troubleshooting Steps for Red LEDs
¶ Step 1: Verify Physical Connection
Before contacting your network department, verify the basics:
-
Check cable connection:
- Verify Ethernet cable is firmly seated in printer's Ethernet port
- Verify Ethernet cable is firmly seated in network switch/router port
- Look for link LEDs on both the printer and switch/router (should be lit when connected)
-
Try a different cable:
- Use a known-good Ethernet cable (Cat5e or better)
- Replace any damaged or worn cables
-
Try a different network port:
- Connect to a different port on your switch/router
- Some ports may have different security configurations
-
Verify network equipment is powered on:
- Confirm switch/router is functioning
- Check that other devices can connect to the same network
¶ Step 2: Test with Ethernet to PC Mode (Bypass Network)
To determine if the issue is with your network infrastructure or the printer itself, test direct computer connection:
- Disconnect from network switch/router
- Configure your computer:
- Set static IP:
192.168.1.51 - Subnet mask:
255.255.255.0 - See Connecting via Ethernet to PC Mode for detailed instructions
- Set static IP:
- Connect Ethernet cable directly from printer to your computer
- Restart the printer
- Wait 60 seconds and observe LEDs:
- 🔵 BLUE LEDs: Printer hardware is working—network infrastructure is the issue
- 🔴 RED LEDs persist: Potential printer hardware issue—contact support
If BLUE LEDs appear with direct connection:
- The printer hardware is functioning correctly
- Your network infrastructure is blocking the printer
- Proceed to Step 3 to contact your network department
¶ Step 3: Contact Your Network Department
If Red LEDs persist when connected to your network (but direct PC connection works), your network infrastructure is preventing printer connectivity.
DoD networks often have strict security policies that block unauthorized devices from connecting. You will need assistance from your network or IT department to authorize the printer.
Information to Provide Your Network Team:
-
Device Type: 22 IDEX V4 3D Printer (DoD Ethernet-only configuration)
-
Required Network Access:
- DHCP IP address assignment (preferred)
- OR: Static IP address assignment (if DHCP is not allowed)
- HTTP access on port 80 (web interface)
- FTP access on port 21 (file transfer, if needed)
-
Connection Behavior:
- Printer attempts DHCP request but receives no response
- Printer cannot obtain IP address
- Direct computer connection works (rules out hardware issues)
Questions to Ask Your Network Team:
- "Does this network require device pre-registration?"
- "Are there VLAN restrictions that would prevent this device from connecting?"
- "Is 802.1X authentication required for network access?"
- "Can you verify DHCP is enabled and has available addresses in the pool?"
¶ Issue: Printer Shows Red LEDs and Does Not Connect
Symptoms:
- Red LEDs illuminate during startup
- Printer is not accessible via any IP address
- Connection test appears to fail
Solutions:
¶ For Regular Ethernet Mode (Network Switch/Router):
- Verify Ethernet Cable Connection:
- Ensure cable is firmly seated in both printer and switch/router ports
- Check for link LEDs on both the printer and switch/router
- Try a different Ethernet cable to rule out cable defects
- Check Network Infrastructure:
- Verify your router or switch is powered on and functioning
- Confirm DHCP is enabled on your router (check router admin panel)
- Test the switch/router port with another device to verify it works
- Try connecting to a different port on the switch/router
- Cable and Port Issues:
- Ensure you're using at least Cat5e cable
- Verify cable length does not exceed 100 meters (328 feet)
- Check for physical damage to cable or connectors
- Timing Issues:
- Wait the full 60 seconds for automatic detection to complete
- Restart the printer to retry the detection process
- Some network switches take longer to negotiate link—wait up to 90 seconds
¶ For Ethernet to PC Mode (Direct Computer Connection):
- Verify Computer IP Configuration:
- Confirm your computer is set to static IP
192.168.1.51 - Verify subnet mask is
255.255.255.0 - Ensure the first three numbers match:
192.168.1
- Confirm your computer is set to static IP
- Check Cable Connection:
- Ensure cable connects DIRECTLY from printer to computer (not through router)
- Verify cable is firmly seated at both ends
- Try a different Ethernet cable
- Computer Network Settings:
- Restart your computer's network adapter (disable/re-enable)
- Temporarily disable WiFi on your computer to ensure Ethernet takes priority
- Verify your computer's Ethernet adapter is set to Manual/Static IP (not DHCP)
- Firewall and Security:
- Temporarily disable firewall to test if it's blocking the connection
- Check if security software is blocking network communication on the Ethernet adapter
- Restart and Retry:
- Restart your computer after configuring network settings
- Power cycle the printer to restart automatic detection
¶ Issue: Cannot Access Printer - Wrong Subnet (MOST COMMON)
Symptoms:
- Printer connected successfully (yellow or blue LEDs)
- IP address is known
- Cannot access web interface via browser
- Browser shows "Cannot reach this page" or "Connection timeout"
Warning: This is the most common issue for both Regular Ethernet Mode and Ethernet to PC Mode. Your computer and printer must be on the same subnet!
Explanation:
For your computer to communicate with the printer, both devices must have IP addresses in the same subnet. The first three numbers of the IP address must match.
Examples of CORRECT subnet matching:
✅ Printer IP: 192.168.1.150
✅ Computer IP: 192.168.1.100
Result: ✅ Can communicate (first three numbers match: 192.168.1)
✅ Printer IP (PC Mode): 192.168.1.50
✅ Computer IP: 192.168.1.51
Result: ✅ Can communicate (first three numbers match: 192.168.1)
Examples of INCORRECT subnet matching:
❌ Printer IP: 192.168.1.150
❌ Computer IP: 192.168.0.100
Result: ❌ Cannot communicate (third number different: 1 vs 0)
❌ Printer IP: 10.0.0.150
❌ Computer IP: 192.168.1.100
Result: ❌ Cannot communicate (first three numbers completely different)
Solutions:
- Check Your Computer's IP Address:
- Windows: Open Command Prompt, type
ipconfig, look for "IPv4 Address" - Mac: System Preferences > Network > Ethernet > Advanced > TCP/IP, look for "IPv4 Address"
- Linux: Open Terminal, type
ip addrorifconfig, look for Ethernet interface IP
- Windows: Open Command Prompt, type
- Compare IP Addresses:
- Write down your computer's IP (e.g.,
192.168.1.100) - Write down your printer's IP (e.g.,
192.168.1.150) - Verify the first three numbers match
- Write down your computer's IP (e.g.,
- Fix Subnet Mismatch - Regular Ethernet Mode:
- If your computer is on a different subnet, connect to the correct network
- Check your router's subnet configuration (most common:
192.168.1.xor192.168.0.x) - Restart your computer's network adapter to obtain a new IP from DHCP
- Check WiFi vs Ethernet: Ensure your computer is connected via Ethernet (or WiFi) to the same network as the printer
- Fix Subnet Mismatch - Ethernet to PC Mode:
- Verify you configured
192.168.1.51on your computer (not192.168.0.51or another subnet) - Double-check for typos in the static IP configuration
- Restart your computer to ensure settings are applied
- Verify you configured
¶ Issue: Connection Works Initially But Fails After Restart
Symptoms:
- First connection was successful (yellow or blue LEDs)
- After restarting printer, red LEDs appear
- Printer no longer accessible
What This Means:
The connection was not stable and the machine could not establish the connection after restart.
Solutions:
-
Verify Cable Still Connected:
- Check that Ethernet cable wasn't accidentally disconnected
- Verify cable is firmly seated at both ends
-
Check Router/Switch Status (Regular Ethernet Mode):
- Ensure router or switch is still powered on
- Verify network infrastructure hasn't changed
- Check if router DHCP service is functioning
-
Verify Computer IP Configuration (Ethernet to PC Mode):
- Check that your computer's static IP (
192.168.1.51) is still configured - Some operating systems revert to DHCP after restart
- Reconfigure static IP if necessary
- Check that your computer's static IP (
-
Network Configuration Changed:
- Verify your network's subnet hasn't changed
- Check if router IP addressing scheme was modified
- Ensure DHCP is still enabled on the router
If red LEDs persist, follow all the troubleshooting steps outlined in the Red LEDs After 60 Seconds section above.
¶ Advanced Configuration - Assigning Static IP Address
If your network requires a static IP address instead of DHCP, you can use the built-in Assign Static IP macro.
To configure static IP:
- Connect to the printer using one of the connection methods above
- Access the web interface
- Navigate to: Macros > System > Settings > Network > Assign Static IP
- Follow the on-screen prompts to configure your static IP address
The macro will guide you through:
- Detecting your current network connection type
- Choosing to use your current IP or entering a custom one
- Testing the configuration before saving
- Saving the configuration for automatic use after restart
Note: After configuring a static IP, the printer will maintain this configuration across restarts and will not request DHCP addresses.
¶ Useful G-code Commands
This section provides alternative methods to retrieve network information using G-code commands. These are useful for troubleshooting or if the touchscreen pop-up was dismissed.
¶ Get IP Address and Network Status
Command: M552 I0
Purpose: Displays the current IP address and network status for the Ethernet interface
How to use:
- Access the printer's web interface
- Go to the Console tab
- Type:
M552 I0 - Press Send
- The printer will display its current IP address and connection status
Example Response:
Network interface 0: IP address 192.168.1.150
¶ Alternative Methods to Find IP Address
If you dismissed the touchscreen pop-up or need to find the IP address later:
Method 1: Using Console Command (Recommended)
- Use
M552 I0command in the Console tab (see above)
Method 2: Use Hostname
- Open a web browser and navigate to:
http://22idex.local - Works on most networks without needing the IP address
Method 3: Check Router/Switch Admin Panel
- Access your router or switch's administrative interface
- Navigate to the connected devices list (often called "DHCP Clients" or "Device List")
- Look for a device named "22idex"
- Note the assigned IP address
Method 4: Check SD Card File
- Power off the printer and remove the SD card
- Insert the SD card into a computer
- Open the file
IP_address.txtto view connection details
¶ Support and Contact Information
For technical support, network configuration assistance, or security-related questions regarding your 22 IDEX V4 DoD printer:
Vision Miner Support
Email: support@visionminer.com
Note: For security-sensitive questions or facility-specific network configurations, please contact your facility's network administrator or security officer before reaching out to external support.