Multitech MTCBA-C-U-N1, MTCBA-C-U-N12, MTCBA-C-U-N14, MTCBA-C-U-N4, MTCBA-C-U-N2 User Manual

®

MultiModem

USB Wireless Modem

CDMA

MTCBA-C-U

User Guide

Copyright and Technical Support

MultiModem® CDMA
USB Wireless Modem User Guide
MTCBA

-C-U

S000345J, Revision J

Copyright

his publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior expressed written permission from Multi-

T
Tech Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2008 by Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. makes no representation or warranties with respect to the contents hereof and specifically
disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
Furthermore, Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to
time in the content hereof without obligation of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc., to notify any person or organization of such
revisions or changes. Check Multi-Tech’s Web site or product CD for current versions of our product documentation.

Revision History
Revision Date Description

A 07/13/04

Initial release.
B 05/05/05 Revised installation procedures.
C 09/15/05 Added the WEEE update.
D 10/13/05 Changed temperature range, added humidity rating, changed modem maintenance, and

warranty chapter.
E 05/04/06 Updated USB Plug & Play software installation.
F 06/30/06 Added AT command examples and frequently asked questions. Reorganized the chapters.

Changed the location of the Adtivation Notices. Added a note about current documentation on

Web site. Many other minor changes made.
G 09/05/06 Removed caution about not connecting USB cable to pc.
H 01/19/07 Added caution to splash screen.
I 05/11/07 Revised tech support listing, trademark description, and warranty/repair descriptions.
J 03/20/08 Add Vista Driver support.

Trademarks and Logos

Multi-Tech, the Multi-Tech logo, and MultiModem are registered trademarks of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. Windows is
a registered trademark of Microsoft in the U.S. and other countries. Other trademarks and trade names mentioned in
this publication belong to their respective owners.

World Headquarters

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
2205 Woodale Drive
Mounds View, Minnesota 55112
[phone] or [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Internet Address: http://www.multitech.com

Technical Support
Country By Email By Phone

Europe, Middle East, Africa:

[e-mail] +(44) 118 959 7774

U.S., Canada, all others: [e-mail] [phone] or +[phone]

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 2

Table of Contents

Contents

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications................................................................................................4

Product Description.................................................................................................................................................4

Features..................................................................................................................................................................4

Safety......................................................................................................................................................................5

General Safety.................................................................................................................................................5

RF Interference Issues.....................................................................................................................................5

Vehicle Safety..................................................................................................................................................5

Maintenance of Your Modem...........................................................................................................................6

Your Responsibility..........................................................................................................................................6

Package Contents............................................................................................................................................6

Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................7

Functions – CDMA USB Modes..............................................................................................................................7

Electrical Characteristers........................................................................................................................................7

Antenna/RF Specifications......................................................................................................................................8

Interfaces................................................................................................................................................................8

LEDs.......................................................................................................................................................................8

AT Command Information.......................................................................................................................................8

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation......................................................................................................................9

Activate Your Wireless Account.............................................................................................................................. 9

Hook up the Antenna and USB Cable.....................................................................................................................9

Handset Connection (Optional).............................................................................................................................10

Attach the Modem to a Flat Surface (Optional)....................................................................................................10

Install the Modem Driver.......................................................................................................................................12

Installing the Modem Driver in Windows Vista...............................................................................................13

Installing the Modem Driver in Windows XP/2003 ......................................................................................... 20

Installing the Modem Driver in Windows 2000...............................................................................................28

Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem ................................................................................................................36

Phone Numbers for the Wireless Modem .............................................................................................................36

Examples of Useful AT Commands ......................................................................................................................36

Verifying Signal Strength ...............................................................................................................................36

Checking Network Registration and Roaming Status.....................................................................................36

Checking the Modem’s Identity......................................................................................................................36

Establishing a Voice Call ...............................................................................................................................37

Establishing a Circuit-Switched Data (CSD) Connection ...............................................................................37

Answering a Circuit-Switched Data (CSD) Connection..................................................................................37

Using Short Message Services (SMS)..................................................................................................................38

SMS Examples ..............................................................................................................................................39

Internet Access.....................................................................................................................................................40

Connecting to the CDMA Network for Internet Access ..................................................................................40

Mobile PhoneTools ...............................................................................................................................................42

Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions............................................................................43

Troubleshooting Examples....................................................................................................................................43

Situation A: The modem does not respond through the USB link..................................................................43

Frequently Asked Questions.................................................................................................................................44

Chapter 5 – Reference Information...........................................................................................................................46

Wireless Modem Reference Information...............................................................................................................46

General..........................................................................................................................................................46

Appendix A – Warranty and Repairs........................................................................................................................47

Appendix B - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Statement .....................................................49

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 3

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Chapter 1 – Product Description

and Specifications

Product Description

The Multi-Tech MultiModem CDMA USB is an external data/fax/voice wireless modem. It also supports mobile
originated short message service (SMS) and mobile-terminated SMS. It offers standards-based multi-band CDMA
2000 1xRTT performance. This ready-to-deploy, standalone modem allows developers to add wireless
communication to products with a minimum of development time and expense. The MultiModem CDMA USB
Wireless modem is based on industry-standard open interfaces, is fully approved, and can be desktop or panel
mounted.

Models:
MTCBA-C-U-N1 is a generic 800/1900 MHz CDMA USB modem that must be programmed with Provisioning

Information (PRI) and a Preferred Roaming List (PRL). (A-key = Random). Recommended for
developers.

MTCBA-C-U-N2 is an 800/1900 MHz CDMA USB modem provisioned for Sprint networks. USA
MTCBA-C-U-N3 is an 800/1900 MHz CDMA USB modem provisioned for Verizon networks. USA
MTCBA-C-U-N4 is an 800 MHz CDMA USB modem for regions that use R-UIM cards. (R-UIM).
MTCBA-C-U-N9 is a generic 800/1900 MHz CDMA USB modem must be programmed with Provisioning Information

(PRI) and a Preferred Roaming List (PRL). (A-key = 0). Recommended for developers.

MTCBA-C-U-N12 is an 800/1900 MHz CDMA USB modem provisioned for Bell Mobility. Canada.
MTCBA-C-U-N14 is an 800/1900 MHz CDMA USB modem provisioned for Alltel networks. USA.

Other Product Codes:
NAM is the model for US and Canada
E/U is the model for Europe and the rest of the world

A Note About Documentation:

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the
content hereof without obligation of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc., to notify any person or organization of such revisions or
changes. Check Multi-Tech’s Web site for current versions of our product documentation.

Features

• CDMA2000 1xRTT operation

• Dual-band 800/1900 CDMA

• 800 MHz with R-UIM support

• Class 2.0 Group 3 FAX

• Desktop or panel mounting

• Short Message Service features including SMS mobile originated, SMS mobile

terminated, cell broadcast, Over the Air Activation (OTA), OTASP, OTAPA

• Voice features include DTMF, telephony, OCELP 13K, echo cancellation

• SMA antenna connector

• Serial interface supports DTE speeds to 230K

• AT command compatible

• CDMA IS-95-A, IS-95B; backwards compatible

• Packet data up to 153K bps forward and reverse

• Circuit-switched data up to 14.4K bps

• Phone book management and Personal Information Management (PIM)

• Fixed dialing number

• Supplementary services including call forwarding, call barring, multiparty, call

waiting and call hold, calling line identification, closed user group, call transfer

• Numerous LEDs present operational status

• Real time clock

• Alarm management

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 4

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Safety

General Safety

The modem is designed for and intended to be used in fixed and mobile applications. “Fixed” means that the device is
physically secured at one location and is not able to be easily moved to another location. “Mobile” means that the
device is designed to be used in other than fixed locations.

Caution: Maintain a separation distance of at least 20 cm (8 inches) is normally maintained

between the transmitter’s antenna and the body of the user or nearby persons. The Modem

is not designed for or intended to be used in portable applications within 20 cm. (8 inches) of

the body of the user.

RF Interference Issues

It is important to follow any special regulations regarding the use of radio equipment due in particular to the possibility
of radio frequency, RF, interference. Please follow the safety advice given below carefully.

• Switch OFF your Wireless MultiModem when in an aircraft. The use of cellular telephones in an aircraft may

endanger the operation of the aircraft, disrupt the cellular network and is illegal. Failure to observe this
instruction may lead to suspension or denial of cellular telephone services to the offender, or legal action or
both.

• Switch OFF your Wireless MultiModem when around gasoline or diesel-fuel pumps and before filling your

vehicle with fuel.

• Switch OFF your Wireless MultiModem in hospitals and any other place where medical equipment may be in

use.

• Respect restrictions on the use of radio equipment in fuel depots, chemical plants or where blasting operations

are in progress.

• There may be a hazard associated with the operation of your Wireless MultiModem close to inadequately

protected personal medical devices such as hearing aids and pacemakers. Consult the manufacturers of the
medical device to determine if it is adequately protected.

• Operation of your Wireless MultiModem close to other electronic equipment may also cause interference if the

equipment is inadequately protected. Observe any warning signs and manufacturers’ recommendations.

Vehicle Safety

• Do not use your MultiModem while driving.

• Respect national regulations on the use of cellular telephones in vehicles. Road safety always comes first.

• If incorrectly installed in a vehicle, the operation of Wireless MultiModem telephone could interfere with the

correct functioning of vehicle electronics. To avoid such problems, be sure that qualified personnel have
performed the installation. Verification of the protection of vehicle electronics should be part of the installation.

• The use of an alert device to operate a vehicle’s lights or horn on public roads is not permitted.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 5

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Maintenance of Your Modem

Your Wireless MultiModem is the product of advanced engineering, design and craftsmanship and should be treated
with care. The suggestions below will help you to enjoy this product for many years.

• Do not expose the Wireless MultiModem to any extreme environment where the temperature is above 50ºC or

humidity is above 90% noncondensing.

• Do not attempt to disassemble the Wireless MultiModem. There are no user serviceable parts inside.

• Do not expose the Wireless MultiModem to water, rain, or spilled beverages. It is not waterproof.

• Do not place the Wireless MultiModem alongside computer discs, credit or travel cards, or other magnetic

media. The phone may affect the information contained on discs or cards.

• The use of accessories not authorized by Multi-Tech or not compliant with Multi-Tech's accessory

specifications may invalidate the warranty of the Wireless MultiModem.

• In the unlikely event of a fault in the Wireless MultiModem, contact Multi-Tech Tech Support.

Your Responsibility

This Wireless MultiModem is your responsibility. Please treat it with care respecting all local regulations. It is not a
toy. Therefore, keep it in a safe place at all times and out of the reach of children.

Try to remember your Unlock and PIN codes. Become familiar with and use the security features to block
unauthorized use and theft.

Package Contents

Modem with No Accessories

1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 Quick Start Guide
1 MultiModem CD

Note: You must supply a USB cable,
bracket screws, and an antenna.

Unbundled package

1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 USB cable
1 antenna
4 rubber feet
1 Quick Start Guide
1 MultiModem CD

Note: You must supply bracket
screws.

Bundled Package

Modem with Accessories

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 6

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Specifications

General Specifications

Mechanical Dimensions & Weight 4.3" L x 2.4" W x 0.94" H; 4.2 oz.

(11 cm x 6.1 cm x 2.4 cm; 119 g)

Connectors & Fasteners

Operating Temperatures -20° to +55°C
Storage Temperatures -40° to +85°C
Humidity Relative humidity 20% to 90% noncondensing
Certifications

Antenna Connection type: SMA jack
Interface Connector: USB Type B
Phone Handset: Modular Handset Jack

EMC: FCC Part 2, 15, 22, 24, EN 55022, EN 55024
Safety: cUL, UL 60950, EN 60950
Network: CDG 1 & 2

Functions – CDMA USB Modes

Mode Description

Standard Dual Band 800/1900 CDMA
Interface USB 12 Mbps. AT command set based on TIA/EIA/IS707.3, V.25ter and CDMA 07.05 & 07.07
SMS Mobile Originated (MO) and Mobile Terminated (MT), Over the Air Activation (OT A), OTASP,

and OTAPA

Data Asynchronous 2400, 4800, 9600, and 14400 bps.

Transparent and Non-Transparent modes.
Mode 3.1 KHz (PSTN) and V110 (ISDN).

Fax [phone]/9600 bps

Class 2.0 Group 3 compatible.

Electrical Characteristers

Electrical Characteristics

Switching the modem on/off The device is permanently powered by the PC.
Voltage Range Voltage range : 4.75 to 5.25 coming from the PC
Overvoltage and Undervoltage Correct operation of the Wireless MultiModem in communication mode is

not guaranteed if input voltage falls below 4.75.

Current Requirement

Parameters
Typ. Typ.

Input supply current in comm. mode at full Tx power 500 500 mA
Input supply current in comm. mode at average Tx power 240 250 mA
Input supply current in idle mode 50 50 mA

800 MHZ 1900 MHZ

Unit

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 7

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Antenna/RF Specifications

Frequency
Impedance
VSWR
Typical Radiated Gain

CDMA 800 CDMA 1900

824 to 894 MHz 1850 to 1900 MHz

50 ohms

<2

0 dBi on azimuth plane

Interfaces

The Wireless MultiModem has several interfaces:

LED function indicating operating status
External antenna (via SMA connector)
USB connector
Microphone and speaker (via handset jack)

LEDs

LED Indicators

TD Transmit Data. Light is on when modem is transmitting data.
RD Receive Data. Light is on when modem is receiving data.
CD Carrier Detect. Light is on when data connection has been established.
LS Line Status.

Continuous “on” state indicates that the wireless modem is not registered on the network.
Flashing state indicates registration on network.

Off state. Modem is off (not ready) or in download mode.
TR Terminal Ready. Commonly called “Data Terminal Ready.” This is a readiness signal from the PC.
PWR Power. Light is on continuously to when power on. (On the IP model, this LED flashes when power is

on.

AT Command Information

AT commands for the CDMA wireless modem are published in a separate CDMA AT Commands Reference
Guide included on the MultiModem CD and posted on the Multi-Tech web site.

IP commands for CDMA modems are also published in a separate CDMA AT Commands Reference Guide
included on the MultiModem CD and posted on the Multi-Tech web site.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 8

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

Chapter 2 – Activation and

Installation

Activate Your Wireless Account

Pre-Configured Multi-Tech Products

Each Multi-Tech wireless product has been pre-configured to operate on a wireless network.

Activate Your Wireless Account

Please see the wireless account Activation Notices located on the MultiModem CD. Choose the one for your
wireless network provider and follow the directions to activate your account.

Phone Numbers for the Wireless Modem

Every

wireless modem will have its own unique phone number. The phone number will be given to you by your

wireless service provider. Wireless provider implementations may vary.

Hook up the Antenna and USB Cable

Antenna

Connect a suitable antenna to the SMA connector (see antenna specifications in Chapter 1).

USB Cable

Connect the Series B end of the USB cable to the modem and to the other end to the PC.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 9

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

Handset Connection (Optional)

If you intend to use a phone handset, connect it to the MultiModem now.

Attach the Modem to a Flat Surface
(Optional)

To mount the Wireless MultiModem, do the following:

1. Obtain mounting screws (two are needed) that are appropriate for the surface on which you will mount the

modem. For example, one might use two 6-32 self-tapping screws 5/8” in length to mount the unit in a
truck to the wall of the cab behind the passenger’s seat.

2. Typically, the unit is mounted against a flat surface into which holes can be drilled. The mounting holes

(center-to-center) must be separated by 125mm or 4 -15/16 inches.
Drill the mounting holes at the desired mounting location.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 10

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

3. Slide the mounting bridles into the corresponding slots on the backside of the modem chassis.

4. Attach the modem with two screws to the mounting surface at the desired location on the equipment.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 11

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

Install the Modem Driver

Introduction

Compatibility: This wireless MultiModem is compatible with Windows Operating Systems Vista/XP/2003/2000

and Linux.

Windows Drivers: The wireless MultiModem USB driver must be installed in your computer’s program directory.

The Windows USB drivers are located on the MultiModem CD in the Drivers I Windows Drivers folder. A
complete set of drivers for each operating system is organized into Vista and XP with either 32-bit or 64-bit
processor. Most users will select either the 32-bit Vista or 32-bit XP drivers (Windows 2003 also use the XP
drivers). Windows 2000 users must select the drivers from the Drivers I Windows_2000 directory. For 64-bit
operating systems, go to Start I All Programs I Accessories I System Tools I Computer and click on the
System Properties button. Under System you will see System Type: 64-bit Operating System.

When installing the 64-bit version of the Vista driver, a person will have to disable the “signed” driver check in
order to install it. Two methods are available, choose one:

• First Method

Boot your PC, press F8 and choose “Disable driver signature enforcement option”.

• Second Method

• Create a shortcut on the desktop to cmd.exe using the following steps:

• Right click on an empty space on the desktop to open the context menu

• Select New

• Select Shortcut with a left-click

• In the Location box type cmd /k

• Right-click on the shortcut and select Run as administrator

• When the command window opens, type or paste the following and press ENTER:

• Bcdedit /set loadoptions DDISABLE_INTEGRITY_CHECKS

• Reboot your PC and install the driver

Linux Drivers: Linux Operating System drivers are also located on the CD in the Drivers I Linux Folder. Refer

to the Readme file (also in the Linux directory) for the correct driver file and installation guide for your
distribution/version of Linux.

Overview of Windows Driver Installation: Three install wizards guide you through the software Installation in

this order:

• Part A installs the USB Driver.

• Part B associates the PC port with the USB Driver, and finally

• Part C installs the modem driver.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 12

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

Installing the Modem Driver in Windows Vista

Preliminaries

1. Power up your computer.

2. If you have not already done so, connect the modem’s USB cable to a USB port on the

computer.

3. Windows will detect that the new modem is present.

Driver Installation of your TUSB3410 Serial Port

4. The Found New Hardware screen appears with Windows needs to install driver software for

your TUSB3410 Serial Port.

Click on Locate and install driver software (recommended). Windows will guide you
through the process of installing driver software for your device.

5. The next screen prompts you to insert the disc that came with your MultiModem. If you have the

disc that came with your device, insert it now. Then, click on I don’t have the disc. Show me
other options. Windows may prompt you to search online, but this is not necessary.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 13

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

6. Choose Browse my computer for driver software (advanced).

7. At the Browse for driver software on your computer screen, click the Browse button.

8. Browse to the Drivers folder on your MultiModem CD, then select the Windows_Drivers folder

and then the Vista32 folder. If you were installing drivers on a Vista 64-bit Operating System,
you would browse to the Vista64 folder. Click OK, then Click Next.

9. Windows can’t verify the publisher of this driver software screen appears.

Select Install this driver software anyway.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 14

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

10. Installing driver software… screen appears.

11. When the software for this device has been successfully installed screen appears with Windows

has finished installing the driver software for this device: CDMA Device.

Click Close.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem User Guide 15