BlackBerry R6420GN Users Guide

RIM GPRS Radio Modem

1902G, 1902GS, 1802G, 1802GS

Integrator Guide

Version 1.0

RIM GPRS Radio Modem 1902G, 1902GS, 1802G, 1802GS Integrator Guide Last revised: 28 June 2002

Part numbers: PDF-04522-002

The information in this document is RIM confidential and is for internal distribution only.

© 2002 Research In Motion Limited. All Rights Reserved. The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties of Research In Motion Limited. RIM, Research In Motion, ‘Always On, Always Connected’, the “envelope in motion” symbol and the BlackBerry logo are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners.

The handheld and/or associated software are protected by copyright, international treaties and various patents, including one or more of the following U.S. patents: 6,278,442; 6,271,605; 6,219,694; 6,075,470; 6,073,318; D445,428; D433,460; D416,256. Other patents are registered or pending in various countries around the world. Visit www.rim.net/patents.shtml for a current listing of applicable patents.

While every effort has been made to ensure technical accuracy, information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Research In Motion Limited, or any of its subsidiaries, affiliates, agents, licensors, or resellers. There are no warranties, express or implied, with respect to the content of this document.

Research In Motion Limited 295 Phillip Street Waterloo, ON N2L 3W8 Canada

Research In Motion Europe Centrum House, 36 Station Road Egham, Surrey TW20 9LF United Kingdom

Published in Canada

NOTE: This document is provided for informational purposes only, and does not constitute a binding legal document unless specifically incorporated by reference into a binding legal agreement between you and Research In Motion (RIM). In the event that you enter into a binding legal agreement with RIM, all provisions contained in such binding legal agreement shall apply, regardless of whether such provisions conflict with information contained herein.

RIM assumes no responsibility for any typographical, technical or other inaccuracies in this document. RIM reserves the right to periodically change information that is contained in this document; however, RIM makes no commitment to provide any such changes, updates, enhancements or other additions to this document to you in a timely manner or at all.

FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION.

The information contained in this document is commercially confidential, for internal use only, and must not be disclosed to any third party without the express written consent of RIM. This document is to be treated as Confidential Information for the purposes of any Non-Disclosure Agreement between you and RIM.

Warning: This document is for the use of licensed users only. Any unauthorized copying, distribution or disclosure of information is a violation of copyright laws. No reproduction in whole or in part of this document may be made without express written consent of RIM.

THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THE CONTENT OF THIS DOCUMENT, AND ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN IS PROVIDED "AS IS". IN NO EVENT SHALL RIM BE LIABLE TO ANY PARTY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR ANY USE OF THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, RELIANCE ON THE INFORMATION PRESENTED, LOST PROFITS OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, EVEN IF RIM WAS EXPRESSLY ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

Important Safety and compliance information

This section provides information on the following topics:

• FCC compliance statement (USA)

• Industry Canada Certification

Important Safety and compliance information

FCC compliance statement (USA)

FCC Class B Part 15

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that

may cause undesired operation.

Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference harmful to radio communications.

There is no guarantee, however, that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Industry Canada Certification

This device complies with Industry Canada RSS 133, under certification number 2503A-R6020GN.

Class B compliance

This device complies with the Class B limits for radio noise emissions as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled “Digital Apparatus,” ICES-003 of Industry Canada.

6 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Contents

Important Safety and compliance information ................................................................ 5

FCC compliance statement (USA)...........................................................................6

Industry Canada Certification .................................................................................6

Class B compliance.............................................................................................6

About this guide................................................................................................................11

Related documentation...........................................................................................11

HAPTER 1 Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem.................................................................. 13

About the RIM GPRS Radio Modem ....................................................................14

Range of applications.......................................................................................15

Receiver sensitivity...........................................................................................15

Noise immunity ................................................................................................15

Powerful and efficient transmitter.................................................................16

Small size ...........................................................................................................16

GPRS network technology......................................................................................16

HAPTER 2 Getting Started.................................................................................................................. 19

About the Integrator Kit .........................................................................................20

Working with RIM...................................................................................................20

Integration overview...............................................................................................21

HAPTER 3 Setting up the test board ................................................................................................. 25

Test board components...........................................................................................26

Setting up the test board (GS models) ..................................................................27

To connect the radio modem to the test board.............................................28

To connect the test board to the computer ...................................................29

To insert the SIM card into the SIM card holder..........................................29

To connect the antenna to the radio modem................................................30

To connect the test board to an AC outlet.....................................................31

To turn on the system ......................................................................................31

To connect the headset.....................................................................................31

Setting up the test board (G models) ....................................................................32

To connect the SIM card to the test board.....................................................33

To connect the radio modem to the test board.............................................34

To connect the test board to the computer ...................................................35

To insert the SIM card into the SIM card holder..........................................35

To connect the antenna to the radio modem................................................36

To connect the test board to an AC outlet.....................................................36

To turn on the system ......................................................................................36

To connect the headset.....................................................................................36

HAPTER 4 Integrating the radio modem .......................................................................................... 37

Overview...................................................................................................................38

Environmental properties.......................................................................................38

Storage temperature ................................................................................................38

Operating temperature ...........................................................................................38

Physical properties ..................................................................................................38

Weight ................................................................................................................38

Dimensions........................................................................................................39

Mounting methods ..................................................................................................39

Bolts or standoffs ..............................................................................................40

Tie wraps............................................................................................................40

Permanent industrial adhesive.......................................................................41

Cables and connectors.............................................................................................41

Radio interface cable and connector..............................................................41

SIM interface cable and connector .................................................................42

Antenna cable and connectors........................................................................43

HAPTER 5 Power Requirements ........................................................................................................ 45

Load specifications ..................................................................................................46

Power supply parameters ...............................................................................46

Ripple specification ..........................................................................................46

Power requirements ................................................................................................47

Batteries.....................................................................................................................47

Rechargeable batteries .....................................................................................47

Single-use batteries...........................................................................................48

Plug-in supplies .......................................................................................................48

Automotive supplies...............................................................................................48

HAPTER 6 Interface specification ...................................................................................................... 51

RIM GPRS Radio Modem interface.......................................................................52

AT Commands .........................................................................................................52

SIM interface pins ....................................................................................................53

Radio Interface Pins.................................................................................................54

Serial port...........................................................................................................54

Pin descriptions ................................................................................................54

Turning off and turning on the radio ...................................................................58

Turning on the radio ........................................................................................58

Turning off the radio........................................................................................58

Resetting the Radio...........................................................................................59

Loading firmware (optional)..................................................................................59

HAPTER 7 Antenna selection .............................................................................................................61

Introduction to antenna terminology ...................................................................62

Gain and ERP ....................................................................................................62

Impedance matching, return loss, and VSWR .............................................62

Antenna size......................................................................................................63

Selecting an antenna................................................................................................63

Antenna requirements ............................................................................................64

Antenna design considerations .............................................................................64

Vertical polarization.........................................................................................65

Proximity to active electronics........................................................................65

Transmit interference.......................................................................................65

Device position .................................................................................................65

Antenna cable....................................................................................................66

Additional notes ...............................................................................................66

Shielding ...................................................................................................................67

HAPTER 8 Certification....................................................................................................................... 69

FCC radio frequency exposure rules ....................................................................70

Complying with FCC SAR/MPE guidelines........................................................70

Antenna..............................................................................................................70

SAR and MPE limits.........................................................................................71

Guidelines..........................................................................................................71

Operating manual compliance statement .....................................................71

Labelling ............................................................................................................72

For more information.......................................................................................72

HAPTER 9 Specifications .................................................................................................................... 73

Power supply & typical current usage .................................................................74

RF properties ............................................................................................................74

Serial communications............................................................................................74

Other features...........................................................................................................74

Mechanical & environmental properties..............................................................75

Audio.........................................................................................................................75

Gain setting........................................................................................................76

Frequency response (voiceband filter) ..........................................................76

Input/output impedance .................................................................................76

Signal to (noise + distortion) ...........................................................................76

HAPTER 10 Glossary ............................................................................................................................. 77

Index .................................................................................................................................. 81

About this guide

This guide explains how to integrate the RIM GPRS Radio Modem into a variety of devices such as laptop computers, handhelds, vending machines, point-of-sale terminals, vehicle-based mobile terminals, and alarm systems.

This guide includes the following topics:

• integration overview

• test board overview

• mounting requirements

• power (battery) requirements

• interfacing to the RIM radio modem

• antenna selection and placement

Throughout the guide, there are suggestions and precautions that can ease the implementation of a wireless communication solution. To discuss the technical integration of this radio modem, contact RIM at

oemsupport@rim.net.

Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

This section provides information on the following topics:

• About the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

• GPRS network technology

Chapter 1: Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

About the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

With the introduction of the RIM GPRS Radio Modem, Research In Motion® (RIM®) sets a new standard for radio modem performance. Its small size and weight makes it suitable for virtually any wireless data and voice application, including handheld devices and mobile terminals. Its multislot class allows for the highest possible download rates allowed using a single receiver on a GPRS network.

The RIM GPRS Radio Modem consists of the following models:

• 1902G

• 1902GS

• 1802G

• 1802GS

Model Description

1902G This model is designed for use with GPRS and GSM wide-area wireless

data/voice networks operating in the 1900 and 850 MHz range in North America. It is identical to the 1902GS, but it has a 6-pin zif connection, which allows you to position the SIM card in the location that best suits your design.

1902GS This model is designed for use with GPRS and GSM wide-area wireless

data/voice networks operating in the 1900 and 850 MHz range in North America. It is identical to the 1902G, but it has an on-board SIM card.

1802G This model is designed for use with GPRS and GSM wide-area wireless voice

and data networks operating in the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz ranges. It is identical to the 1802GS, but it has a 6-pin zif connection, which allows you to position the SIM card in the location that best suits your design.

1802GS This model is designed for use with GPRS and GSM wide-area wireless voice

and data networks operating in the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz ranges. It is identical to the 1802G, but has an on-board SIM card.

The RIM GPRS Radio Modem offers the following advantages:

• range of applications

• radio performance

• reciever sensitivity

• noise immunity

• powerful and efficient transmitter

• small size

14 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

About the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

These advantages are described below.

Range of applications

RIM radio modems are designed to integrate easily into a computing device and are suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

• laptop computers

• vehicle tracking

• point-of-sale devices

• monitoring and telemetry

• ruggedized terminals

• vending machines

• handheld computers

• utility meters

• parking meters

• billboards

• dispatching

• security alarm panels

Receiver sensitivity

Receiver sensitivity is a measure of how well the radio modem can receive and decode data from a network base station. This figure is important when a device is used in areas where signal strength is weak, such as inside buildings and in locations that are not close to a base station. A radio modem with good receiver sensitivity can be used in more places than a radio modem with poor receiver sensitivity.

The RIM GPRS Radio Modem typically has a receiver sensitivity of -107 dBm with a

2.4% bit error rate (BER).

Note: BER is an industry standard error rate used to define sensitivity; it does not indicate that

2.4% of the data that is passed by the radio to the application is corrupted.

Noise immunity

The RIM GPRS Radio Modem is not desensitized by the electromagnetic interference (EMI) or “noise” generated by the electronics of the terminal into which it is integrated. As a result, no special shielding is required between the radio and your device.

Integrator Guide 15

Chapter 1: Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Noise immunity offers several key benefits:

• easier integration

• longer battery life

• increased reliability

• improved RF performance

• more coverage from each base station

• no need for special RF shielding

Powerful and efficient transmitter

When necessary, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem can supply a full 1.0 watt at 1900 MHz. However, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem quickly decreases the output power when it is close to a base station, because a stronger signal is needed only when the radio modem is far from a base station. By transmitting a strong signal only when it is necessary, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem conserves battery power and ensures a balanced link.

Preliminary results indicate that the RIM GPRS Radio Modem provides reliable transmit efficiency across the entire operating voltage range of 3.5 to 4.75 volts. As a result, batteries can be used even when nearing depletion. The transmit efficiency also maximizes the radio coverage area throughout the life of the battery. Final numbers are yet to be determined.

Small size

Because of its single board design, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem is very thin and, at only 42.0 by 67.5 mm, is smaller than a business card. This tiny size allows the RIM GPRS Radio Modem to meet most applications’ tight space requirements. The radio modem’s single-board design is more reliable than multi-board designs, particularly in high-vibration environments (such as vehicles) or in devices that can be dropped (such as handheld devices).

GPRS network technology

The Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), first deployed by Oy Radiolinja Ab of Finland in 1992, has become the international voice communication standard. The General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) supplement to the GSM network was first proposed in 1992 to combine telecom and datacom, and the result has been well-received. For more information on GSM and GPRS, visit

16 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

http://www.gsm.org.

GPRS network technology

GPRS is a packet switched overlay to the circuit switched GSM network that gives a mobile device on that network “always on” capabilities. GPRS allows for a theoretical maximum transfer speed of 171.2 kbps. It is also IP-based, which means that a mobile device on the GPRS network is Internet-aware.

GPRS networks are deployed worldwide. There are currently 172 countries with deployed GSM networks. Enabling GPRS communication on GSM networks requires only two additional hardware devices and a software upgrade. Many GSM network providers have already supplemented their networks with GPRS capability. GPRS technology is deployed or is being deployed in the following countries:

Australia Germany Luxembourg Singapore

Austria Greece Malaysia Slovenia

Belgium Hong Kong Malta South Africa

Canada Hungary Netherlands Spain

China Iceland New Zealand Sweden

Croatia Ireland Norway Switzerland

Czech

Israel Philippines Taiwan

Republic

Denmark Italy Poland Turkey

Estonia Lebanon Portugal United Arab

Emirates

Finland Liechtenstein Romania United

Kingdom

French W.

Lithuania Russia United States

Indies

Note: The RIM 1902G and 1902GS models are compatible with networks in North America that operate in the 1900 and 850 MHz range. The RIM 1802G and 1802GS models are compatible with networks, usually in Europe, that operate in the 900 and 1800 MHz range.

Integrator Guide 17

Chapter 1: Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem

18 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Chapter 2

Getting Started

This section provides information on the following topics:

• about the Integrator Kit

• working with RIM

• integration overview

Chapter 2: Getting Started

About the Integrator Kit

RIM is committed to facilitating RIM GPRS Radio Modem integration. RIM provides resources for you to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a wireless communication solution and works closely with partners to develop an application in the shortest time possible.

The Integrator Kit includes several tools to help streamline the evaluation and integration process. Using the kit, you can quickly interface the radio modem to your computing device.

Note: The radio modem that is part of the Integrator Kit is not activated on the GPRS network until a SIM card, which has been activated for GPRS communication, is attached to the device through the proper lines. Contact your GPRS network provider to obtain a SIM card and activate the radio modem.

Working with RIM

RIM has an experienced team to help you with design and implementation. If you need help getting started, or if you have any questions about the radio technology or its integration into your platform, contact the engineering development team:

phone: +1 (519) 888-7465 ext. 5200 fax: +1 (519) 883-4940 email: web site: http://www.rim.net/oem

oemsupport@rim.net

20 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Integration overview

The following flowchart illustrates the integration process.

Integration overview

Integrator Guide 21

Chapter 2: Getting Started

Contact the RIM OEM team Email OEMinquiry@rim.net or call (519) 888-7465 x5200 to

Obtain Integrator Kit Request the Integrator Kit from Research In Motion. This kit

Read the Integrator Guide Read the Integrator Guide first to make sure that you follow

Obtain SIM Contact the appropriate network provider to obtain a SIM

Step Description

obtain more information about RIM Radio Modem products and whether they are suitable for your application.

includes the radio modem, two mechanical samples of the radio, an interface and test board, AC to DC power supply, required cables, magnetic mount antenna, and documentation.

proper procedures to prevent unnecessary delays and equipment damage. This guide explains topics such as mounting requirements, battery power characteristics, interfaces to the RIM radio modem, and antenna selection and placement.

card. For network contact information, visit

http://www.rim.net/oem or contact RIM at oemsupport@rim.net.

Activate GPRS account Contact the appropriate network provider to activate the

GPRS account. For network contact information, visit

http://www.rim.net/oem or contact RIM at oemsupport@rim.net.

Contact Certification Labs Learn about obtaining FCC and/or Industry Canada

certification. Radio frequency (RF) emitting products cannot be sold in the United States or Canada until you have the necessary government approvals. Understanding what you are permitted to do before beginning your design will help you to avoid redesign costs. For more information on testing, visit

http://www.rim.net/oem/ or contact the RIM at oemsupport@rim.net.

Start Development Plan your project carefully before starting development. You

must address several important considerations when planning your design. To speed up the development process, you can often perform several procedures in-parallel. Contact RIM at

oemsupport@rim.net for further details.

22 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Integration overview

Step Description

Develop Software Contact RIM if you encounter any problems with the

communication between the offboard processor and the radio.

Develop an Antenna Start developing an antenna. The antenna that is provided

with the Integrator Kit has been certified for use with the RIM GPRS Radio Modem. If this antenna does not meet your needs, develop an antenna for use with the final product. Refer to the Integrator Guide for guidelines selecting an antenna.You can also contact RIM for general assistance and for recommendations of antenna companies that can provide further assistance.

Develop a Power Supply Start developing the power supply for the product. Refer to

the Integrator Guide for guidelines on the strict power requirements of the RIM radio modem. Contact RIM at

oemsupport@rim.net for further details on

power requirements, guidelines for power supply development, and recommendations of power supply companies that can provide further assistance.

Complete PCB and Remaining Development

Start developing the housing and Printed Circuit Board (PCB) for the product. Refer to the Integrator Guide for guidelines on radio and antenna placement.

Conduct Field Trials Start product field trials to ensure performance and reliability.

Perform Certification Choose a testing lab to perform FCC or Industry Canada

certification and any applicable network certification. Before sending your product for testing, contact RIM to make sure that the solution is set up properly for testing. For more information, visit

http://www.rim.net/oem/.

Pilot/Beta Release Contact RIM prior to beta release of the product, especially if

the product has not been certified yet. There are specific guidelines that must be followed prior to certification to make sure that the release conforms to legal requirements.

Final Release Congratulations on completing the development process!

Contact RIM if you encounter any obstacles related to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem. Please also provide RIM with regular updates on the release’s progress.

Integrator Guide 23

Chapter 2: Getting Started

24 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Chapter 3

Setting up the test board

This section provides information on the following topics:

• Test board components

• Setting up the test board (GS models)

• Setting up the test board (G models)

Chapter 3: Setting up the test board

Test board components

The RIM test board provides a standard RS-232 serial interface between a computer and the radio modem. The test board allows you to connect the RIM GPRS Radio Modem to a standard computer using a COM port or to a terminal device using a RS-232 serial port. The test board also provides access points to the radio’s communication port, which enables you to monitor activity with a logic probe, multimeter, or oscilloscope.

The test board includes the following components and functionality:

• RS-232 interface

• on/off switch

• test points

• power supply

• LED indicators

• standard SIM slot

• microphone/speaker jack

The test board components and functionality are described below.

Component Description

RS-232 interface The serial (COM) port on a computer and most terminal

devices operates at RS-232 signal levels, which are typically

±12V. This high voltage would damage the RIM GPRS Radio

Modem, which is typically integrated into a device that operates an asynchronous serial port at 3.0V. The RS-232 interface on the test board allows you to produce an output from the radio that is easily interpreted by a computer.

On/off switch When the switch is on, the radio turns on whenever power is

applied to the test board. When the switch is off, the radio shuts down. Refer to "Turning off and turning on the radio" on page 58 for more information.

Test points The test board is more than an RS-232 interface. It provides

direct access to each of the 22 pins on the radio interface cable, which enables connectivity to analytical equipment—such as a logic probe, multimeter, or oscilloscope—and real-time data flow indication.

26 RIM GPRS Radio Modem

Setting up the test board (GS models)

Component Description

Power supply The RIM GPRS Radio Modem requires a clean, high-current

power source. RIM uses a standard plug-pack to provide the current that is necessary to operate the radio. The voltage is converted into the necessary levels by the power supply section on the test board.

LED indicators The test board includes light emitting diode (LED) indicators

that are designed to indicate the flow of data to and from the host (in real time), the radio power status, power to the test board, network coverage, and more.

Standard SIM card holder The test board includes a SIM card holder for use with

standard 3V or 5V SIM cards. The SIM card is necessary in order to access GSM/GPRS networks.

Microphone/speaker jack The test board includes a microphone/speaker jack for use

with the headset that is included in the Integrator Kit. The microphone/speaker jack enables the integrator to take advantage of the GSM circuit-switched voice network that underlies the GPRS networks.

Setting up the test board (GS models)

To use the test board that is provided with your Integrator Kit, you must connect the RIM GPRS Radio Modem to an antenna, SIM card, and a computer (or another device with a RS-232 serial interface). Use the test board and cables that are supplied with your Integrator Kit.

Note: These steps apply to on-board SIM models (GS) only.

To set up the test board, complete these tasks in the following order:

1. Connect the radio modem to the test board.

2. Connect the test board to the computer.

3. Insert the SIM card into the SIM card holder.

4. Connect the antenna to the radio modem.

5. Connect the test board to an AC outlet.

6. Turn on the system.

7. Connect the headset.

The following graphic illustrates the GS model test board and major components.

Integrator Guide 27

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