When computer networks are divided into multiple sub-networks (subnets), there are several ways of using the Connected Science System when devices are in a different subnet than the LabQuest.

1) Manually specify the IP address of the LabQuest on the device.

2) Manually specify the hostname of the LabQuest on the device. (Note: If you use the .local hostname of the LabQuest it will not work.)
This method requires a Network Administrator to create DNS entries for each LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3 unit in the school’s DNS server and results in a connection sequence that is more easily communicated and remembered. A domain name service (DNS) entry maps a friendly name to an IP address on the network. (Example: lq2-bench3.schoolname.edu could resolve to an IP like 192.168.9.23.) Typically a network administrator creates DHCP static leases for each LabQuest and the DNS entries simultaneously. This ensures that each LabQuest always receives the same IP address from the DHCP server. Alternatively, you can configure each LabQuest to use a manual (static) IP address.

3) A network administrator could install a Bonjour Gateway to redirect mDNS and Bonjour requests across subnets. This would require a school to work with their networking equipment vendor to procure the appropriate hardware and software to match their existing network configuration. See: What Bonjour service strings does LabQuest/Logger Pro use to advertise?

Additional information about Data Sharing when the source is on a different subnet:
Traffic between two devices on different subnets must be passed through a router. The Connected Science System relies on Bonjour for service discovery (which utilizes mDNS) and typically does not work across subnets. Without Bonjour, you must enter the IP address or fully qualified domain name of the LabQuest on a device before a connection can be established. LabQuest units will not be auto-discovered when using Graphical Analysis 4, Data Share, or LabQuest Viewer.

Colleges, universities and high schools often have large networks, in which wireless clients are on a different subnet than wired computers. Different departments or buildings may be on different subnets, as well. Additionally, teacher devices may be on a different subnet than student devices.