FALCOM DISCO-B4 Hardware Manual

THIS DOCUMENT IS AVAILABLE AT HTTP://WWW.FALCOM.DE/

.

DISCO-B4

Hardware manual

Version: 1.0.3; Modified: Thursday 15 September 2011

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

Table of contents

1 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................5

1.1 General......................................................................................................................5

1.2 Circuit concept.........................................................................................................6

1.3 Related documents..................................................................................................7

2 SECURITY.......................................................................................8

2.1 General information.................................................................................................8

2.2 Exposure to RF energy............................................................................................8

2.3 Driving.......................................................................................................................9

2.4 Electronic devices....................................................................................................9

2.5 Vehicle electronic equipment.................................................................................9

2.6 Medical electronic equipment.................................................................................9

2.7 Aircraft.......................................................................................................................9

2.8 Children.....................................................................................................................9

2.9 Blasting areas...........................................................................................................9

2.10 Potentially explosive atmospheres....................................................................10

3 SAFETY STANDARDS.......................................................................11

4 TECHNICAL DATA...........................................................................12

4.1 Product features.....................................................................................................12

4.1.1 Power consumption............................................................................................13

4.1.2 Operating temperatures......................................................................................13

4.1.3 GSM/GPRS engine features..............................................................................14

4.1.4 GPS engine features..........................................................................................15

4.2 NMEA data message..............................................................................................16

5 DISCO-B4 APPLICATION INTERFACE.................................................17

5.1 Power supply..........................................................................................................17

5.1.1 Power supply pins (1 and 2) on the 8-pin connector..........................................17

5.1.2 Automatic shutdown...........................................................................................17

5.1.3 Power saving......................................................................................................18

5.2 Determining the External Equipment Type.........................................................18

6 HARDWARE INTERFACES..................................................................19

6.1 8pin connector, pin assignments.........................................................................20

6.1.1 8-pin connector pinout........................................................................................20

6.1.2 Special pin description (Pins 4, 5, 6)..................................................................21

6.1.2.1 How to use them as analog inputs......................................................................................... 21

6.1.2.2 How to use these pins as digital Inputs (Pin 4, 5, 6)..............................................................23

6.1.2.3 How to use these pins as digital outputs (Pin 4, 5, 6)............................................................24

6.1.2.4 How to use IGN pin(pin 3)......................................................................................................25

6.1.2.5 Serial communication signals (RxA and TxA)........................................................................ 26

6.1.3 4pin row connector.............................................................................................26

6.2 SIM card holder inside the device........................................................................27

6.2.1 How to enter the SIM card PIN:..........................................................................29

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 2 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.3 Mounting.................................................................................................................29

6.4 Audio jacks.............................................................................................................30

6.4.1.1 Audio Interface ..................................................................................................................... 31

7 HOUSING.....................................................................................32

8 APPENDIX....................................................................................33

8.1 Schematics.............................................................................................................33

8.1.1 Installation guidance for 8-pin connector............................................................33

8.2 Setting up DISCO-B4-EVALKIT.............................................................................34

8.3 What should be considered when using the DISCO-B4 device........................35

Version history:

This table provides a summary of the document revisions.

Version

Author Changes Modified

1.0.3 F. Beqiri - Changed device name from FOX-LT-IP to DISCO-B4 15/09/2011

1.0.2 F. Beqiri - Added the maximum and recommended tightening torque values used on the Torx

screws. Reed point 7 in chapter 6.2.

01/09/2010

1.0.1 F. Beqiri - Updates and corrections made throughout the document. 04/01/2010

1.0.0 F. Beqiri - Initial version. 11/11/2009

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 3 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

Cautions

Information furnished herein by FALCOM is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Please, read carefully the safety
precautions.
If you have any technical questions regarding this document or the product described in
it, please contact your vendor.
General information about FALCOM and its range of products are available at the
following Internet address: http://www.falcom.de/

Trademarks

Some mentioned products are registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Copyright

This document is copyrighted by FALCOM WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS GmbH with all rights
reserved. No part of this documentation may be produced in any form without the prior
written permission of FALCOM WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS GmbH.

FALCOM WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS GmbH.

No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein.

Note

Specifications and information given in this document are subject to change by FALCOM
without notice.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 4 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

1 INTRODUCTION

This product manual is only addressed to qualified personnel which are well skilled
in electronical/electrical installation and not addressed to private consumers/end
users. The installation, implementing or setting into operation of the product can
only be performed by qualified personnel.

The status of the product described in the data sheet may have changed since
publication of the data sheet and therefore information in this data sheet on
product status may be outdated. The latest information of the product is available
on the download area of the FALCOM website.

1.1 General

FALCOM is providing all kinds of GPS and Telematics products as required by the
market today. The new DISCO-B4 is an unique, low-cost and weatherproof device that
uses a quad-band GSM/GPRS technology for two way communication and the latest
GPS technology for positioning. The DISCO-B4 comes with a protection class IP6K9K
ideal for applications with extreme environmental conditions. This protection class

IP6K9K allows the device to be mounted on an exterior surface of the vehicle. The
DISCO-B4 device comprises an embedded configurable software that provides even

greater performance and flexibility for its users and system integrators to develop high­performance applications that allow vehicle tracking via SMS and over the Internet.
The device concept is targeting for direct implementation as a mobile client in a wide
range of high volume, low-cost flexible system solutions like AVL, fleet management,

vehicle security and recovery and other related areas. The configuration of the DISCO­B4 can be done via local serial link or remotely via SMS or TCP/Internet. The tracking

functionality of the embedded mobile client application is combin ed with a variety of
alert messaging capabilities. The configurable alert messages contain current position
and status report and use 3 multi-function I/O. In addition to that two predefined digital
inputs are detecting ignition line status and main power (car battery) failure, so you
may handle these events and use as notification.

By default, DISCO-B4 is offered without an internal battery. Should you need a
DISCO-B4 device with an internal battery, please see “Ordering Guide” and
choose one which meets your application requirements.

The embedded software can be controlled by word like “PFAL” commands needed

for executing particular actions, reading or setting particular configurations. These
commands are valid for all kinds of operation channels including Serial, SMS, CSD, TCP
and SMTP.

DISCO-B4 provides Geofence features for territory management, route verification,
prohibited locations, parking area and more, with exception reporting to a wide variety
of events such as arrivals, departures, deliveries, pick-ups, illegal entries, unauthorized
movement, etc. DISCO-B4 contains a data-logger (history feature) that enables you to
archive unique vehicle locations in sequence for up to 45 days for later analysis and
evaluation (for example, archive interval up to 20 sec.).

The physical interface to the device application is made through an integrated 8pin
connector. It is required for controlling the device, receiving GPS location data,
transferring data and providing automotive power supply lines. This connector provides
1 serial interface giving you maximum flexibility for local use. A separate 4pin double
row connector (containing RX, TX, GND and VOUT - on STEPPIII known as second serial
interface) is for connecting a MFD device and two separate audio jacks for directly
connecting an active speaker and a microphone.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 5 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

DISCO-B4 is a device that can be configured and integrated onto any asset platform,
including:

- Trailers,

- Trucks,

- Delivery vans,

- Rail cars,

- as well as other industrial monitoring installations.

and it can be used in a variety of applications, including:

• Real time online tracking,

• Fleet management / monitoring,

• Security / emergency services,

• Real time satellite navigation,

• Territory management,

• Personalized drivers logbook,

• Route verification,

• Trip management / distance calculations,

• Theft protection,

• Toll collection / pay as you drive.

1.2 Circuit concept

DISCO-B4 architecture consists of the following major components (a block
diagram is available below):

 HARDWARE ARCHITECTURE:

 High-performance Quad-Band GSM/GPRS core,
 50 parallel channel, high sensitive GPS core,
 ARM7TDMI Processor controlling all functions of the system,
 Internal GSM antenna,
 Internal GPS antenna.

 ADDITIONAL OPTIONS TO DISCO-B4

 3D motion sensor,
 Rechargeable Li-Polymer battery (see Ordering Guide).

 PHYSICAL INTERFACES:

 Power supply lines,
 3 x Multi-line I/O,
 1 x Ignition,
 RS232 port (Rx, Tx, GND),
 Audio jacks for voice call (1 x Microphone; 1 x Speaker),
 Additional 4pin single row connector.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 6 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

Figure 1: DISCO-B4 block diagram

1.3 Related documents

Some other PDF documents such as FCC approval, application notes, Certificate
of Conformity R&TTE etc. are also available on the Web at: http://www.falcom.de/ in
the published download area.

In addition to this document, the following files comprise the full set of FALCOM
FOX -LT-IP product manuals:

NR PDF file name Description

[1] SteppIII_fox_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Comman

d_Set.pdf

Contains the description of the internal firmware and the
supported Configuration Command Set for the FALCOM
STEPPIII, FOX/-LT/-IP and BOLERO-LT.

[2] AppNotes_Transform_history_data.pdf Contains information of how to transform history data that is being

transmitted from a FALCOM AVL device via TCP connection.

[3] AppNote_Remote_update.pdf Contains information of how to upgrade FALCOM AVL devices to

a new firmware revision remotely via TCP (server based
application).

[4] STEPPIII_FOX_BOLERO_LT_Software_Update.pdf Contains information how to upgrade a FALCOM AVL device to a

new firmware version locally via serial port.

[5] AppNotesRemoteUpdateWithWorkbench.pdf Contains information how to upgrade a FALCOM AVL devices to

a new firmware version remotely via TCP.

These PDF files are viewable and printable from Adobe Reader. If you do not have the Adobe Reader
installed, you can download it from http://www.adobe.com.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 7 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

2 SECURITY

IMPORTANT FOR THE EFFICIENT AND SAFE OPERATION OF YOUR GSM-MODEM, READ

THIS INFORMATION BEFORE USE!

Your cellular engine DISCO-B4 is one of the most exciting and innovative electronic
products ever developed. With it you can stay in contact with your office, your
home, emergency services and others, wherever service is provided.

This chapter contains important information for the safe and reliable use of the
DISCO-B4 device. Please read this chapter carefully before starting to use the
cellular engine DISCO-B4.

2.1 General information

Your DISCO-B4 device utilizes the GSM/GPS standard for cellular technology. GSM is
a newer radio frequency („RF“) technology than the current FM technology that
has been used for radio communications for decades. The GSM standard has been
established for use in the European community and elsewhere. Your DISCO-B4 is
actually a low power radio transmitter and receiver. It sends out and receives radio
frequency energy. When you use your modem, the cellular system handling your
calls controls both the radio frequency and the power level of your cellular
modem.

SIM cards are needed for the use of the acquired devices, which are not included
in the scope of delivery of the device. The SIM cards can be acquired e.g. by
specific providers. Additional costs can result from the use of the SIM cards which
are to be borne by the purchaser (client) of the devices. The seller does not cover
the extra costs for the use of the devices. The seller gives no recommendation for
the use of specific SIM cards and is not liable for the fact that the devices are
usable with all available SIM cards. The seller is also not liable for any other costs
that are needed for the application of the customer in connection with this device.

2.2 Exposure to RF energy

There has been some public concern about possible health effects when using
GSM modems. Although research on health effects from RF energy has focused for
many years on the current RF technology, scientists have begun research
regarding newer radio technologies, such as GSM. After existing research had
been reviewed, and after compliance to all applicable safety standards had been
tested, it has been concluded that the product is fit for use.

If you are concerned about exposure to RF energy, there are things you can do to
minimize exposure. Obviously, limiting the duration of your calls will reduce your
exposure to RF energy. In addition, you can reduce RF exposure by operating your
cellular modem efficiently by following the guidelines below.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 8 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

2.3 Driving

Check the laws and regulations on the use of cellular devices in the area where
you drive. Always obey them. Also, when using your DISCO-B4 while driving, please
pay full attention to driving, pull off the road and park before making or answering
a call if driving conditions so require. When applications are prepared for mobile
use, they should fulfil road-safety instructions of the current law!

2.4 Electronic devices

Most electronic equipment, for example in hospitals and motor vehicles is shielded
from RF energy. However, RF energy may affect some malfunctioning or improperly
shielded electronic equipment.

2.5 Vehicle electronic equipment

Check your vehicle manufacturer’s representative to determine if any on board
electronic equipment is adequately shielded from RF energy.

2.6 Medical electronic equipment

Consult the manufacturer of any personal medical devices (such as pacemakers,
hearing aids, etc.) to determine if they are adequately shielded from external RF
energy.

Turn your DISCO-B4 device OFF in health care facilities when any regulations
posted in the area instruct you to do so. Hospitals or health care facilities may be
using RF monitoring equipment.

2.7 Aircraft

Turn your DISCO-B4 OFF before boarding any aircraft. Use it on the ground only with
crew permission. Do not use it in the air.

To prevent possible interference with aircraft systems, Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) regulations require you to have permission from a crew­member to use your modem while the plane is on the ground. To prevent
interference with cellular systems, local RF regulations prohibit using your modem
whilst airborne.

2.8 Children

Do not allow children to play with your DISCO-B4 device. It is not a toy. Children
could hurt themselves or others (by poking themselves or others in the eye with the
antenna, for example). Children could damage the modem or make calls that
increase your modem bills.

2.9 Blasting areas

To avoid interfering with blasting operations, turn your device OFF when in a
“blasting area” or in areas posted: „turn off two-way radio“. Construction crew
often uses remote control RF devices to set off explosives.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 9 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

2.10 Potentially explosive atmospheres

Turn your DISCO-B4 device OFF when in any area with a potentially explosive
atmosphere. It is rare, but your modems or their accessories could generate sparks.
Sparks in such areas could cause an explosion or fire resulting in bodily injury or even
death.

Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are often, but not always, clearly
marked. They include fuelling areas such as petrol stations; below decks on boats;
fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities; and areas where the air contains
chemicals or particles, such as grain, dust or metal powders.

Do not transport or store flammable gas, liquid or explosives, in the compartment of
your vehicle, which contains your modem or accessories.

Before using your modem in a vehicle powered by liquefied petroleum gas (such
as propane or butane) ensure that the vehicle complies with the relevant fire and
safety regulations of the country in which the vehicle is to be used.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 10 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

3 SAFETY STANDARDS

Your GSM/GPRS/GPS device complies with all applicable RF safety standards.
DISCO-B4 meets the safety standards for RF receivers and the standards and

recommendations for the protection of public exposure to RF electromagnetic
energy established by government bodies and professional organizations, such as
directives of the European Community, Directorate General V in matters of radio
frequency electromagnetic energy.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 11 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

4 TECHNICAL DATA

4.1 Product features

 Supply voltage range:

➢ Operating power supply voltage range of +10.8 V to

+32.0 V, suitable for direct connection to an automotive
+12V or +24V DC power source (car battery).

 Power saving:

➢ 7 different energy-saving modes - programmable with

PFAL commands. Refer to the chapter 5.1.3, "Power

saving" for a brief overview.

 Operating temperature range:

➢ - 40°C to + 85°C (see chapter 4.1.2 for more details).

 Physical characteristics:

➢ Size: Ø 187.2 ± 0.1 mm; ↕ 47.2 ± 0.1 mm.
➢ Weight (without options): ca. 468 gr.

 Physical Interfaces:

➢ 8-pins connector :

✔ 3 x I/Os multi functional (each pin has dual functions as

analog or digital - software configurable. Each digital
pin can operate either as an input or output -
depending on the external user-circuit),

✔ 1 x Ignition (software controlled feature),
✔ 1 x Power supply (software controlled feature),
✔ 1 x Serial port (Rx, Tx), Baud rate is controlled by firmware

4800...115200 bps (default=57600 bps), 8 data bits, no
parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.

➢ 4-pins row connector:

✔ 1 x Power supply (output voltage)
✔ 1 x Serial port (Rx, Tx 3.3V levels), Baud rate is controlled

by firmware 4800...115200 bps (default=57600 bps), 8
data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.

➢ Audio jacks:

✔ 1 x Microphone (2.5mm jack),
✔ 1 x Speaker (3.5mm jack).

➢ Internal SIM Card holder (supports 1.8/3 V SIM cards) - SIM

card should be inserted by skilled personnel.

 Housing:

➢ PA6 Plastic.
➢ Protection class: IP6K9K

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 12 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

 Directive:

➢ RoHS compliant.

 Firmware:

➢ Embedded TCP/IP stack, including TCP, IP and SMTP

protocols,

➢ Accessible via PFAL commands,
➢ Upgradable locally via serial port and remotely over the

air (GPRS/TCP).

 Internal memory:

➢ 8 Mbyte FLASH for configuration, data-logging and

firmware storage,

➢ 2 MByte RAM.

 Evaluation board:

➢ To evaluate with DISCO-B4 you need a FOX evaluation

board which is included in the DISCO-B4 EVALKIT (see
chapter 8.2).

 Supported protocols:

➢ NMEA Msg.: GLL, GGA, RMC, VTG, GSV, GSA

FALCOM Msg.: IOP, GSM, AREA, 3DP, BIN - see

related documents [1] and Table 3.

4.1.1 Power consumption

To be defined.

4.1.2 Operating temperatures

Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Unit

Storage temperature (without internal battery) -40 +25 +90 °C

Storage temperature (with internal battery) -20 +25 +60 °C

Operating temperature (without internal battery) -40 +25 +85 °C

GSM* (without internal battery) -30 +25 +80 °C

Charging temperature 0 +25 +45 °C

Charging temperature (with BX option)) -20 +25 +60 °C

Discharging temperature -20 +25 +60 °C

* These temperatures can affect the sensitivity and performance of the GSM engine.

Table 1: Operating temperature

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 13 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

4.1.3 GSM/GPRS engine features

 GSM/GPRS core:

➢ Telit GE864-Quad module
➢ Quad-Band: GSM 850, 900, DCS 1800, PCS 1900.
➢ Compliant to GSM Phase 2/2+

 Output power:

➢ Class 4 (2 W) at EGSM900/850
➢ Class 1 (1 W) at GSM1800 and GSM 1900

 GPRS connectivity:

➢ GPRS multi-slot class 10
➢ GPRS mobile station class B

 DATA:

GPRS ⇒

➢ GPRS data downlink transfer: max. 85.6 kbps (see table 2).
➢ GPRS data uplink transfer: max. 42.8 kbps (see table 2).
➢ Coding scheme: CS-1, CS-2, CS-3 and CS-4.

CSD ⇒

➢ CSD transmission rates: 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, 14.4 kbps, non-

transparent, V.110.

 SMS:

➢ Text mode.

 Ring tones:

➢ Offers a choice of 30 different ringing tones, easily

selectable with PFAL commands.

 GPRS Coding scheme:

Coding scheme 1 Timeslot 2 Timeslots 4 Timeslots

CS-1: 9.05 kbps 18.1 kbps 36.2 kbps

CS-2: 13.4 kbps 26.8 kbps 53.6 kbps

CS-3: 15.6 kbps 31.2 kbps 62.4 kbps

CS-4: 21.4 kbps 42.8 kbps 85.6 kbps

Table 2: Coding schemes and maximum net data rates over air interface

Please note that, the values listed above are the maximum ratings which, in practice, are
influenced by a great variety of factors, primarily, for example, traffic variations and network
coverage.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 14 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

4.1.4 GPS engine features

 GPS engine:

➢ UBX-G5010 single chip from u-blox
➢ 50-channel u-blox 5 engine
➢ GPS L1 C/A code

 Accuracy:

➢ Position: < 10 m CEP

 Time to First Fix (TTFF):

➢ Hot starts < 1 sec., average
➢ Cold starts 29 sec, average

 Sensitivity:

➢ Tracking -160 dBm

 Dynamic Conditions:

➢ Velocity < 515 m/s (1000 knots).
➢ Max. update rate 1 Hz

 A-GPS support:

➢ AssistNow Online
➢ AssistNow Offline,

 Crystal oscillator (TCXO):

➢ Load sensitivity ± 10 % load change, 0.2 ± ppm

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 15 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

4.2 NMEA data message

DISCO-B4 delivers data in the NMEA-0183 format. Table below lists the NMEA and
FALCOM output messages supported by the DISCO-B4 device and gives a brief
description for each protocol. For further description about these protocols, refer to
the related documents [1].

The running firmware inside the device offers the possibility to switch on and off
each protocol that is listed in the table below. As mentioned above the firmware
inside the device supports a lot of PFAL commands enabling full control of the
device. There are also PFAL commands which allow sending of these protocols via
SMS, TCP, Data call and e-mail. For example, the PFAL commands
"PFAL,GSM.SMS.Send..." and "PFAL,GSM.Send.TCP..." allow you to send an SMS
message to a user or a TCP packet to a TCP server to let him know the current
location, GPS state, UTC time, Date, Speed and Course over ground of the device.
The received SMS contents or TCP packet can then be forwarded to a map
software for graphical representation of the device location. When you install such
a device in a vehicle, you are then able to have always full control of the vehicle.
In this way you will know where your vehicle is, what is happening with your vehicle,
has your vehicle been moved without authorization from a park area, real time
vehicle movements and more. The TCP server developed by FALCOM called
"Trace4You" has a lot of such features allowing you to have full control of your
vehicle, fleet and other assets.

NMEA Description

GGA Time, position and fix type data.

GLL Latitude, longitude, UTC time of position fix and status.

GSA GPS receiver operating mode, satellites used in the position solution and DOP values.

VTG The direction and the ground speed

GSV The number of GPS satellites in view, satellite ID numbers, elevation, azimuth and SNR values.

RMC Time, date, position, course and speed data.

FALCOM Description

IOP The status of the digital/analog inputs and output ports and battery voltage (if battery available)

GSM The GSM operator, reception, registration status, GSM field strength, area code and cell ID.

AREA The state (entered / remaining) of 32 areas/geofences - such as territory management, route

verification, prohibited locations, parking area and more.

3DP The state of the Motion Sensor (hardware option)

BIN User protocol including time, date, position, course and speed data in binary format (small sized -

only 21 characters).

Table 3: NMEA Output Messages

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 16 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

5 DISCO-B4 APPLICATION INTERFACE

5.1 Power supply

The power supply for the DISCO-B4 unit has to be a single voltage source of V

+IN

=

+10.8 V...+32.0 V DC. The operating voltage (V+IN) has to be permanently applied
to the DISCO-B4 unit and able to provide sufficient current of up to 1.9 A.

The operating voltage (V

+IN

and GND) is protected against voltage spikes and reverse

polarity, but not against continuous-overvoltage.

NOTE: Operating voltage range must never be exceeded; care must be taken in

order to fulfill min/max voltage requirements.

5.1.1 Power supply pins (1 and 2) on the 8-pin connector

One +IN pin on the 8-pin double row connector is dedicated to connect the supply
voltage, and the GND pin for grounding.

Both +IN and GND pins serve for charging the internal Li-Polymer battery
(option) and powering the DISCO-B4 device. DISCO-B4 has an automatic
power ON-function when external power is applied. The power supply for the
DISCO-B4 is capable of utilizing current ranging from V

+IN

=+10.8 V... +32.0 VDC

designed for automotive application.

Signal name I/O Parameter Description

+IN I +10.8 V...+32.0 VDC. The

operating voltage must never
be exceeded.

Positive operating voltage.

For security reason, it is recommended to integrate
externally a 2A fuse link between interconnection plug (8­pin connector) and d.c.-power source (see Fig 15).

GND - 0 V Ground

5.1.2 Automatic shutdown

Automatic shutdown takes effect if:

• battery voltage level runs low and external power supply is

disconnected.

• supply voltage is below the specified input voltage range.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 17 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

5.1.3 Power saving

SLEEP mode reduces the functionality of the modules of the DISCO-B4 device to a
minimum and thus minimizes the current consumption to the lowest level. Settings
can be made using the $PFAL,Sys.Device.Sleep command. For details, see
example in table below.

Following SLEEP modes are supported by the DISCO-B4 device:

Modes Description

IGN

Device goes to sleep and wakes up when IGN (pin 3 - blue color) changes its digital
level from Low to High (performs a rising edge).

Ring

Device goes to sleep and wakes up when the GSM module receives a voice call or
an SMS.

Timer=1:20:00

Device goes to sleep and wakes up after the defined time has expired.

Motion=5,20,20

Device goes to sleep and wakes up when motion is detected.

ExtPwrDetect

Device goes to sleep and wakes up when external power (higher than 9 V) is
connected to the device.

ExtPwrDrop

Device goes to sleep and wakes up when external power is disconnected or it drops
below 8 V.

AiWu=5.1,12

Device goes to sleep and wakes up when the voltage on I/O1 (pin 4 used as analog
input) exceeds the defined upper or lower threshold.

Example $PFAL,Sys.Device.Sleep=IGN+Ring+Timer=1:20:00

IMPORTANT: The sleep and wake-up procedures are quite different depending on

the selected sleep mode. Please keep in mind that the power
saving with "Ring" parameter works properly only when PIN
authentication has been done and the device is already registered
in the GSM network. If you attempt to activate power saving while
the device is not registered in the GSM network, the SIM card is not
inserted or the PIN not correctly entered, the device responds with
an error "ring shutdown aborted due to bad GSM coverage" and the
power saving does not take place. For more details, refer to the
manual "steppIII_FOX-LT_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf".

NOTE (This note is related to the battery-powered devices only): The internal battery of

the DISCO-B4 must have enough power to safely wake up the device from a sleep
mode. If the internal battery of the DISCO-B4 device does not have enough power,
the device cannot complete the wake up operation.

5.2 Determining the External Equipment Type

Before you connect the serial port pins on the aforementioned terminals (DCE units)
to external equipment, you need to determine if the external hardware serial ports
are configured as DTE or DCE.

DISCO-B4 is designed for use as a DCE device. Based on the aforementioned
conventions for DCE-DTE connections, it communicates with the customer
application (DTE) using the following signals:

DISCO-B4 Terminal (DCE) to Application (DTE)

RxA <---------- TXD
TxA ----------> RXD

Table 4: The signalling definitions between DTE and DCE.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 18 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6 HARDWARE INTERFACES

This chapter describes the hardware interfaces:

• 8pin connector

• Mounting holes

• Audio jacks

• 4pin single row connector

Interface specifications

8pin connector Eight-wire cable with an 8-pin connector on the end and 1 meter cable

length. It consists of IN/OUT, power supply line and RX/TX.

Audio jacks 3.5mm and 2.5mm audio jacks. The 3.5mm jack is where you plug in a

speaker. The 2.5mm jack is where you plug in a microphone.

Mounting holes 6 holes for attaching it to a suitable location (use M4x30 self tapping or

machine screws, not included).

Fastening screw holes 12 x holes for fastening both cases together.

4pin single row connector For connecting a MFD device to the DISCO-B4.

Table 5: Interface specifications

Figure 2: Interface specifications of the DISCO-B4.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 19 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.1 8pin connector, pin assignments

Figure 3: Pin assignments of the 8-pin connector.

6.1.1 8-pin connector pinout

PIN NAME COLOR DIRECTION DISCRIPTION LEVEL

1 +IN Red Input

Power supply input. The power supply must be
able to meet the requirements of current
consumption. Care must be taken so that the
operating voltage applied to the terminal stays
within the voltage range. Applying a voltage outside
of the voltage range can damage the module. For
security reason, it is recommended to integrate
externally a 2A fuse link between power source
and DISCO-B4.

V

+IN

= + 10.8 ... + 32.0 V

Imax ≤ 2A

2 GND Braun - Ground. 0 V

3 IGN Blue Input

General purpose input. Either connect it to the
vehicle ignition and use it for journey START and
STOP reports or connect it to the operating voltage
+IN and with the help of an external switch you
wakeup the DISCO-B4 device from IGN-Sleep
mode (awaking from this mode requires a HIGH
signal). See also chapter 6.1.2.4.

HIGH ≥+10.8 .. +32.0 V DC;
LOW = 0V

4 I/O1 Orange

5

I/O2 or

CAN_L

Yellow

6

I/O3 or

CAN_H

Green

Input/Output

Software configurable pins. Each pin has dual
functions as analog or digital. Each digital pin can
be individually set to operate either as input or
output.

OUT: 100 mA max. @ +0 ..
+32.0V DC

IN: 0 V..+32.0V DC
(High & Low levels are free-

programmable)

Analog : Up to 32.0 V
DC/10 bits resolution

7 RxA Purple Input

Serial port (receive data) for direct connection to
the host PC (configuration, evaluation, firmware). If
not used leave open.

V24, ±12 V

8 TxA Black Output

Serial port (transmit data) for direct connection to
the host PC (transmitting history data, output GPS
protocols and others). If not used leave open.

V24, ±12 V

Table 6: Description of the 8-pin double-row connector

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 20 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.1.2 Special pin description (Pins 4, 5, 6)

These pins have dual functions. All of them are controlled by the internal firmware of
DISCO-B4. Therefore, the user must specify whether they will be as analog or digital pins.

This function is controlled by the command PFAL,IO0[1,2].Config. If, for example, you
want to use I/O1 as an analog pin, and the I/O2 and I/O3 as digital, the command
settings would look like this:

PFAL,IO0.Config=AI,2,11 //0 = I/O1; AI = analog; 2 and 11 = min. and max.

voltages for Low and High events.

PFAL,IO1.Config=DI,5,10 //1 = I/O2; DI = digital; 5 and 10 = min. and max.

voltages for Low and High events

If a pin from I/O1 to I/O3 is configured as a digital pin, then the pin must be assigned as
an input or an output. If you want I/O2 to be an input and I/O3 to be an output, the
command settings would look like the following:

PFAL,IO1.Config=DI,5,10 //1 = I/O2; DI = digital; 5 and 10 = min.

and max. voltages for Low and High
events.

PFAL,IO6.Set=high[low,hpulse,lpulse,cyclic] //6 = I/O3; high = sets output to high.

Some examples how to use them are given in sections below.
When using an I/O as digital you must set it to high first (with PFAL command

“$PFAL,IO4[5,6].Set=high”), otherwise 0V will be measured (and the device could be

damaged).

6.1.2.1 How to use them as analog inputs

Because these pins can operate either as digital or analog, they have to be configured
and calibrated with PFAL commands before using them.

Analog voltages of up to 32.0V with a 10 bits resolution can be processed and remotely
evaluated by a server application. A pull-up resistor to a constant input voltage allows
for resistive transducers to ground, e.g. fuel sensor or thermistors.

To use these IOs as analog, the following command should be set to the device.

PFAL,IO0[1,2].Config=AI,2,11

where 0, 1 and 2 are indices corresponding to IO1 (pin 4), IO2 (pin 5) and IO3 (pin 6)
respectively. While the value 2 and 11 are min. and max. voltages that will be used to
generate Low and High events, respectively.

Detailed information can be found in software manual “steppIII_FOX­LT_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf“.

↓ Connection example 1 (for I/O1 and I/O2):

An analog input can be connected to a temperature sensor (a NTC resistor for
instance). In the diagram below is used a fixed resistor is used from the input
voltage to the I/O 2, and a variable resistor ( Negative Temperature Coefficient -
whose resistance or capacitance decreases when temperature increases) to ground.
It is possible to set a low temperature alarm and a high temperature alarm.
Passage through these thresholds will trigger an alarm. We recommend to use
SMS or TCP as alarm type with GPIOP protocol. The SMS can be received on a
mobile phone, modem or any GSM device when changes are detected. The
analog-to-digital converter (ADC) inside the unit has an input voltage range
from 0 to 2.5 V. An application example is shown in figure below:

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 21 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

Figure 4: Connection example 1 when used as analog input.

↓ Connection example 2 (for I/O1 and I/O2):

An analog input can be connected to a tachometer generator. The
maximum output voltage of the tachometer should be + 32.0 V (see
illustrated example in figure below).

Both circuit examples (the NTC diagram above and the Tachometer below) are only
illustrations to show the aim of these I/Os when used as analog inputs.

Figure 5: Connection example 2 when used as analog input.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 22 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.1.2.2 How to use these pins as digital Inputs (Pin 4, 5, 6)

These pins are high active when used as digital inputs, so y ou can set V

IN(LOW)

and

V

IN(HIGH)

to any levels within the range from +0 to +32.0 VDC. The High and Low levels

can be set with PFAL command (e.g. PFAL,IO0[1,2].Config=DI,5,10) - where 0, 1 and 2

are indices corresponding to IO1 (pin 4), IO2 (pin 5) and IO3 (pin 6) respectively. While
the values 5 and 10 are min. and max. voltages that will be used to generate Low and
High events respectively. Detailed information can be found in software manual

“steppIII_FOX-LT_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf“.

The figure below illustrates how these inputs can be used in practice. When the internal
software detects input changes from High to Low or vice versa, a Falling or Rising edge
Event is respectively generated. Therefore, depending on the alarm type, the DISCO­B4 can react to the input changes and release different alarms such as sending out an
SMS, email message, TCP packet, opening a CSD connection or activating an output
port. The alarm type is user-dependant.

Figure 6: Connection example when using it as digital input

A completed circuit example for all inputs is attached in section 8.1.1.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 23 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.1.2.3 How to use these pins as digital outputs (Pin 4, 5, 6)

The DISCO-B4 device supports three IOs which can be used either as input or
output. These outputs are open collectors. They can be directly connected via

resistors (R) to LEDs, Relays etc., which need no more than 100 mA @ up to + 32.0 V DC.
The figures below show the schematic of possible output connections. To use and

activate these outputs use the command $PFAL,IO4[5,6].Set=high[low,hpulse,lpulse,

cyclic] for IO1, IO2 and IO3 respectively or you can configure one or more alarms that

activate these outputs when specific events occur (e.g. PFAL,Cnf.Set,AL0=IO.e8=redge:

IO4.Set=cyclic,1000,2000).

In order to evaluate this alarm, first send this configuration to the DISCO-B4 device and
then trigger IGN-pin to High – as result the IO1 goes High for 1 sec and Low for 2 sec. To
set IO1 to Low, just execute the command PFAL,IO4.Set=Low. For more details how to

activate an output and how to configure an alarm, refer to the manual
“steppIII_FOX-LT_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf“. Both figures

below show the schematic connections of how to use this output. Please note: do

not apply power directly to an output pin without having a device (e.g. a resistor)
between the output pin and external power.

Figure 7: Connection example 1 when using it to control an Relay.

Figure 8: Connection example 2 when using it to control an LED

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 24 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.1.2.4 How to use IGN pin(pin 3)

The IGN-pin has two functions:

✔ It wakes up the system DISCO-B4 from the IGN-sleep mode (when

sleeping),

✔ and can be used to monitor the vehicle ignition state, to report/store the

START and STOP of a trip by using the events IO.e8=redge and IO.e8=fedge
for START and STOP respectively.

IGN-sleep mode is one of the eight supported energy-saving modes of operation in
which all unnecessary components are shut down. Once the device is awakened by
IGN high signal, it returns to full functionality.

Note that, the DISCO-B4 device powers on automatically when external power is

applied, and IGN pin provides an additional “wake up” function for the IGN-sleep
mode when it is requested.

Using IGN pin you can configure the system to store a specific location or to deliver
an alarm SMS or TCP packet if an unauthorised entry to start your vehicle is

attempted. In such a case use the IGN generated event as a condition to start vehicle
tracking.

NOTE: All battery powered DISCO-B4 devices are shipped into the IGN-sleep mode. Therefore, to wake

up the device, connect the IGN-line to the d.c.-power source.

Figure 9: Monitoring vehicle starter by IGN line

Figure 9.1: Use IGN line to wake DISCO-B4 from IGN-Sleep

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 25 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.1.2.5 Serial communication signals (RxA and TxA)

The DISCO-B4 device incorporates a full duplex serial channel which allows two
devices to communicate directly with each other via the RS232 serial port. All
supported variable baud rates are software-controlled. It is recommended to use
the DISCO-B4 Evalboard in order to communicate with the DISCO-B4 device, as
there you will find all you need to evaluate with it.

This serial channel (RxA, TxA) operates at ±12 V signal level according to the V.24.
The signals on these pins are obtained to RS232 compatible signal levels.

RxA This is the main receiving channel and is used to receive

software commands to the board from any software (e.g.
HyperTerminal). Moreover, the firmware update can also be
done through this serial port.

TxA This is the main transmitting channel and is used to output

navigation, measurement, response and system data to
any software (e.g. HyperTerminal, FALCOM Workbench).

You may connect this port to a Bar code scanner and with the help of the serial
event Sys.eSerialData0 you may process the incoming data from a scanner.

Moreover, the incoming data on the serial line may be forwarded/sent via TCP to
an internet server and there processed/stored into a database. Therefore, you have

this data in real-time irrespective in which country they have been scanned. The
interface type and port settings of the bar code scanner must be compatible with the
DISCO-B4 one. For more information how to implement such an application, refer to the
application note "AppNotes_connecting_a_bar_code_scanner_to a_STEPPII.pdf".

6.1.3 4pin row connector

This interface is used to connect a MFD device to the DISCO-B4. The pin out is given
in table below.

Figure 10: 4pin connector for connecting a MFD device.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 26 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

PIN NAME COLOUR DIRECTION DESCRIPTION LEVEL

1 RxB Green-White Input

Second serial port (receive data). Default baud
rate = 57600bps.

2 TxB Blue-White Output

Second serial port (transmit data). Default baud
rate = 57600bps.

3.3V TTL levels

3 VOUT Red-White Output

Power supply output. This output pin is used to
apply power to the MFD device.

4 GND Orange-White - Ground.

V

+OUT

= + 5 V

Imax ≤ 100 mA

0 V

Table 7: Description of the 4-pin single row connector

6.2 Insert the SIM card holder inside the device

The DISCO-B4 device is equipped with a GSM modem. To use it, you must insert a
SIM card in the appropriate holder inside the device. There is no SIM card shipped

with the unit. The customers must provide their own SIM card for use. The unit has
altogether 12 screw holes. Because the SIM card must be inserted by the customers
only 2 screws are screwed on.

Attention: The opening and closing of the housing must be performed by

qualified electricians.

The SIM card is obtained from your mobile provider and must be activated for GSM
data services before using it. Together with the SIM card, you receive a 4-digit PIN
number. Entering of the PIN allows your device to access the mobile network.

To insert the SIM card into the SIM card holder inside the device, follow the steps
below:

1) Remove the power supply and any other connections from the device, then

place the device on the back. The housing has been screwed down by only 2
screws for quick opening and inserting the SIM card. These are located opposite
to each other on the housing ring. Unscrew these 2 screws (1), (2) by using a Torx
T6 Screwdriver. In the delivered package there are also 10 other screws which
should be used to assemble the housing after inserting the SIM card.

2) After unscrewing both screws, carefully open the housing cover (3) by using your

fingernails and then pull them apart using your finger. If you cannot open the
case with your fingernails, then use a flat non-metal object. The case has a black
rubber ring around the lower case of the housing which is advertised to make the
device whether proof. Improper handling of this rubber ring can lose the whether
proof capability of the the device housing.

Attention: Do not remove any of the cable connectors inside the device case!

3) Locate the SIM card holder (4) on the side where the PCB revision ID is shown.
Push the slider (metal lock) of the SIM card-holder (4) in the direction marked “­>OPEN”. Flap the card-holder up. Insert the SIM card into the SIM card-holder
(with care not to damage any components of the circuit board) - the bevelled corner on
the SIM card is facing toward the top of the card-holder and the golden contact
area is facing downwards when the holder closes. Push the SIM card down until it
stops. Make sure, that the SIM card properly fits in the SIM card-holder.

4) Flap the card-holder back (without force), then press the slider (metal lock), and
at the same time move it in the direction marked "<- LOCK" on the card-
holder until it stops (5).

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 27 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

Figure 11: Removing crews around the housing, opening the cover, inserting the SIM card

into the SIM card holder and screwing the housing again.

5) Clean the rubber ring and to maintain the life of the rubber ring we recommend
to grease it with a silicone grease before closing the housing.

6) Now, hold the lower case in your left hand with the battery showing on the left

side and the cover in your right hand as shown in figure above (6). Then place
the cover back to the lower case (7) by ensuring first that the holes at the outer
edge of the upper and lower cases fit exactly to each other as when both cases
fit in place it is not possible to rotate the cover.

7) Finally, press smoothly both cases (8) with your hands with care not to damage

the black O' ring rubber that goes around the lower case and then screw all 12
screws (included) on the housing ring (see below)using the Torx T6 Screwdriver.
The maximum tightening torque used on the Torx screws must not exceed the
maximum value of 0.6 Nm, recommend 0.5 Nm.

Figure 12: Secure the cover with provided screws

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 28 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.2.1 How to enter the SIM card PIN:

To insert the PIN of the SIM card follow the steps below:

1) Install and start the FALCOM Workbench software.

2) Connect your DISCO-B4 to a free PC COM port (see chapter 6.1.2.5) and power
up your device (see chapter 6.1).

3) Open a COM Port, a Console and an Editor. Select the COM port and port
settings (57600 bps, 8 Data bits, No Parity bit, 1 Stop bit, None Flow control) and
then click on the Connect icon on the left of the text "Port", to connect to.
Connect the Console to the COM Port and the Editor to the Console on the
Connection view. For more details refer to the Workbench User's Guide.

4) Finally send from the editor the command "$PFAL,Cnf.Set,GSM.PIN=xxxx" (xxxx =
PIN of your SIM card). For more details refer to the manual “SteppIII_FOX-
LT_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf”.

6.3 Mounting

The DISCO-B4 device can be mounted in different locations. More detailed

information on how to install and mount your DISCO-B4 in a vehicle is given in the
application note "InVehicleMounting.pdf".

Figure 13: View of the mounting holes

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 29 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.4 Audio jacks

DISCO-B4 has two audio jack connectors one for an active speaker and one
microphone. Both connectors are shown in figure below:

Figure 14: Audio interfaces

The electrical characteristics for both paths is given separately in tables below:

Microphone path characteristic and requirements:

Microphone type Electret microphone

Line coupling AC

Line type balanced

Differential input voltage

≤ 65mVpp (23mVrms)

Microphone nominal sensitivity -45 dBVrms/Pa

Analog gain suggested +10dB

Microphone voltage 3 V

Table 8: Microphone characteristics

Speaker path characteristic and requirements:

Line coupling DC

Line type balanced

Output load resistance

≥ 14 Ω

Internal output resistance

4 Ω (>1.7Ω)

Signal bandwidth 150 - 4000 Hz @ -3 dB

Max. differential output voltage 1310 mVrms (typ, open circuit)

Max. single ended output voltage 656 mVrms (typ, open circuit)

Amplifier

Audio power amplifier 5-10 W

Input voltage range 6 ... 30 VDC

Table 9: Speaker characteristics

Detailed instructions on using audio parameters are presented in the manual

"SteppIII_fox_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf".

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 30 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6.4.1.1 Audio Interface

The DISCO-B4 device provides one audio interface suited for hands-free function
(car kit). The MIC/ACTIVE-SPK-SET offered by FALCOM contains a microphone and
an active speaker for direct connection to the SPK or MIC connectors of the
DISCO-B4 and using audio features. This set is tested by FALCOM and it provides
high-quality voice for in-car audio application. The following figure shows how this
set looks like.

Figure 15: KA13 & KA14

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 31 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

7 HOUSING

Figure 15: DISCO-B4 housing.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 32 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

8 APPENDIX

8.1 Schematics

The figure below illustrates a common schematic when you install your DISCO-B4
hardware in the vehicle and use it for vehicle security. For detailed information,
please, refer to the related documents [InVehicleMounting.pdf].

8.1.1 Installation guidance for 8-pin connector

On the top of the schematic you can find the corresponding pin out of the 8pin
double row connector.

When installing your DISCO-B4 you will not only be able to track and locate objects
all the time, but you will also be automatically notified when disagreements occur
between the configuration and device behaviours themselves. Depending on your
application requirements, the I/O pins can be configured and used as digital
outputs to lock/unlock vehicle doors, to activate a relay, buzzer, turn on a lamp; or
as digital inputs to detect when something in the vehicle is opened or closed. Input
changes may trigger an output to high or low. The IGN line can be connected to
the vehicle ignition key to monitor its ON/OFF position.

Note: Turn car ignition off before making any connection. Use a common ground

point for all ground wires. To avoid ground loops, isolate all ground pins of
the DISCO-B4 unit from the vehicle body. Do not connect power from a
different system to the DISCO-B4.

Software configured outputs of the DISCO-B4 must operate at the same
voltage level as the supply voltage +IN operates.

The operating voltage range must NEVER be exceeded as device is not
protected again continuous overvoltage. For security reasons it is
recommended to integrate externally a 2A fuse link between the positive
wire of the DISCO-B4 (+IN) and d.c. - power source.

The device should be mounted in the dash or on the windshield of the vehicle
with the GPS side facing the sky and the antenna has a clear view to the sky.

Connect the power cable to the DISCO-B4. With the vehicle ignition off and

antenna connected, attach the power pins to DISCO-B4 (FIRST connect
the GND pin and then the +IN pin).

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 33 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

Figure 16: Schematic example of installation guidance.

8.2 Setting up DISCO-B4-EVALKIT

To get started quickly with DISCO-B4 EVALKIT, follow the steps below:

1) Connect the 8pin single row connector on the external cable to the 8pin single
row connector socket on the evalboard. To remove it press the "lever" on the back
of connector and then pull it out.

2) Plug the RS232 serial cable into a free COM port on your PC.

3) Plug the other end of the RS232 serial cable into the 9pin serial port on the
evalboard.

4) Plug the AC adapter into the wall socket of your 220V electric mains.

5) Plug the 4pin connector on the “PS-002-N/JP3” power adapter into the left input
socket on the evalboard marked "POWER 10.8 V …32 V”.

Figure 17: Connecting DISCO-B4 to the evalboard

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 34 of 35

DISCO-B4 HARDWARE MANUAL VERSION 1.0.3

6) On the evalboard, turn the switches marked “E/ON”, “D/ON”, “IGN” to ON and

“Current” to CURRENT.

“E/ON” Supplies power to the DISCO-B4 evalboard.

“D/ON” and “Current” Supplies power to the DISCO-B4 device.

“IGN” Switches DISCO-B4 from IGN-sleep mode to full functionality

(Battery powered FOX devices are shipped by the factory in IGN
sleep mode. Therefore, the device requires a Low to High signal
on IGN-pin to be activated).

Figure 18: Turn on switches on the the evalboard

8.3 What should be considered when using the DISCO-B4
device

DISCO-B4 is a device controlled by PFAL commands in the operating firmware.
Therefore, in order to create application with the DISCO-B4 device and to obtain
maximum benefit from the DISCO-B4 operating firmware, you have to build a
specific configuration inside the device. All PFAL commands can be sent to the
DISCO-B4 with the help of the Workbench software which can be free of charge
from the FALCOM's website (http://www.falcom.de). The commands supported by
DISCO-B4 and other AVL devices are available in the manual
“SteppIII_fox_bolero_lt_PFAL_Configuration_Command_Set.pdf”.

This confidential document is a property of FALCOM and may not be copied or circulated without previous permission.

Page 35 of 35