Dharma Seed routers

Using a Custom Router to Connect to the Dharma Seed Server

Denon DN-700R digital recorders upload to the Dharma Seed server via FTP. Each venue with digital recorders has an FTP account on the server. Access to the FTP service is not publicly available, it is only accessible via OpenVPN. Dharma Seed provides routers that are pre-configured with OpenVPN client keys so that the Denon can connect and "Archive" the recordings - this is a backup function that sends recorded files of the current media to the FTP server function of the Dharma Seed server. Once received on the Dharma Seed server they are then imported into the Dharma Seed database and made available for labeling.

Choice of Routers

As of December 2018 we use ASUS RT-AC66U_B1 routers. A very similar model is sold as the ASUS RT-AC1750_B1 - this works with the following instructions as well.

We use these because they are old enough to be reasonably priced (<≈$100) while modern enough to be flash-able with Asuswrt-Merlin firmware. Asuswrt-Merlin firmware gives us the access we need to set up the router as a VPN Client using OpenVPN.

We remove the antennas from the routers so that they fit better at the location with easier access to the LAN and WAN jacks in the back, and to disable the wireless functions of the router. We want them used only for VPN connections from the recorder to the server via wired connections. Some models allow the antennas to be unscrewed from the unit; other models require opening up the case, detaching the antennas from the board, and then removing them from the case.

Setting up an ASUS RT-AC66U_B1

Set up router via wired connection

1. Insert your wireless router's AC adapter to the DC-IN port and plug it to a power outlet.

2. Using the bundled network cable, connect your computer to your router's LAN port. Ensure that the LAN LED is blinking

3. Using another network cable, connect your modem to your router's WAN port.

4. Insert your modem's AC adapter to the DC-IN port and plug it to a power outlet.