Multitech MTCBA-G-U-F1, MTCBA-G-U-F2, MultiModem MTCBA-G-U User Manual
MultiModem® GPRS
USB Wireless Modem
MTCBA-G-U
User Guide
Copyright and Technical Support
MultiModem® GPRS
USB Wireless Modem User Guide
MTCBA-G-U
S000346J, Revision J
Copyright
This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior expressed written permission from MultiTech 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 04/04/05 Changed model nomenclature to GPRS.
C 05/05/05 Revised installation procedures.
D 09/15/05 Add WEEE update to User Guide.
E 10/13/05 Change temperature range, added humidity rating, changed modem maintenance, and
warranty chapter.
F 05/04/06 Updated USB Plug & Play software installation.
G 06/29/06 Changed the location of the Activation Notices. Added note about current documentation
on Web site. Added Frequently Asked Questions.
H 09/05/06 Removed caution about not connecting USB cable to PC.
I 01/19/07 Added caution to splash screen.
J 03/20/08 Add Vista Operating System support.
Trademarks and Logos
Multi-T
ech and the Multi-Tech logo are trademarks of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem is a registered trademark
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-T
ech Systems, Inc.
2205 Woodale Drive
Mounds View, Minnesota 55112
(763) 785-3500 or (800) 328-9717
Fax: (763) 785-9874
Internet Address: http://www.multitech.com
Technical Support
Country By Email By Phone
Europe, Middle East, Africa:
support@multitech.co.uk +(44) 118 959 7774
U.S., Canada, all others: support@multitech.com (800) 972-2439 or +(763) 717-5863
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS 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...........................................................................................................................5
Your Responsibility..........................................................................................................................................5
Package Contents...................................................................................................................................................6
Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................7
Antenna/RF Specifications...............................................................................................................................7
Interfaces................................................................................................................................................................8
LEDs................................................................................................................................................................8
AT Command Reference Guides.....................................................................................................................8
Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation......................................................................................................................9
Activate Your Wireless Account.............................................................................................................................. 9
Insert the SIM Card into the Holder.........................................................................................................................9
Connect the Antenna and USB Cable...................................................................................................................10
Step 4 – Handset Connection (Optional)...............................................................................................................10
Step 5 – Attach the Modem to a Flat Surface (Optional).......................................................................................11
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 Number 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.....................................................................................................................................................41
Connecting to the GPRS Network for Internet Access...................................................................................41
Mobile PhoneTools ...............................................................................................................................................43
Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions............................................................................44
Troubleshooting Examples....................................................................................................................................44
Frequently Asked Questions.................................................................................................................................45
Chapter 5 – Reference Information...........................................................................................................................47
Wireless Modem Reference Information...............................................................................................................47
Appendix A – Warranty and Repairs........................................................................................................................48
Appendix B - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Statement .....................................................50
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 3
Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications
Chapter 1 – Product Description
and Specifications
Product Description
The Multi-Tech MultiModem GPRS-U is an external data/fax/voice wireless modem with a USB interface. It supports
mobile originated short message service (SMS) and mobile-terminated SMS. Designed for global use, it offers
standards-based multi-band GSM/GPRS Class 10 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 GPRS is based on industry-standard open interfaces, is fully type approved, and can be desktop or
panel mounted.
Models:
MTCBA-G-U-F1 is the 900/1800 MHz GPRS USB modem (RS-232)
MTCBA-G-U-F2 is the 850/1900 MHz GPRS USB modem (RS-232)
Other Product Codes:
NAM is the model for US and Canada
GB/IE is the model for Great Britain and Ireland
Euro/ROW 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
• GPRS Class 10 operation
• Dual-band 850/1900 or 900/1800 GSM/GPRS
• GSM Class 1 and Class 2 Group 3 FAX
• Desktop or panel mounting
• Short Message Services including text and PDU, point-to-point, cell
broadcast
• 14.4K GSM circuit switched data
• SMA antenna connector and SIM socket
• Serial interface supports DTE speeds to 115.2K
• AT command compatible
• MNP2 V.42bis data compression
• Numerous LEDs provide operational status
• ME + SIM phone book management
• Fixed dialing number
• SIM Toolkit Class 2
• SIM, network and service provider locks
• Real time clock
• Alarm management
• UCS2 character set management
• Packet data up to 85K bps
• Embedded TCP/IP stack
• Circuit-switched data (GSM) up to 14.4K bps transparent and non-
transparent
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 4
Chapter 2 – Installation
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.
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.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 5
Package Contents
Chapter 2 – Installation
Unbundled package
Modem with no Accessories
1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 Quick Start Guide
1 MultiModem CD
Note: You must supply a USB cable,
screws for the bracket, and
an antenna
1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 USB cable
1 antenna
4 rubber feet
1 Quick Start Guide
1 MultiModem CD
Note: You must supply screws for the bracket.
Bundled Package
Modem with Accessories
Part to be Supplied by Your Wireless Service Provider
Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) configuration chip. The SIM contains information specific to your wireless
account and its features.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 6
Chapter 2 – Installation
Specifications
General Specifications
Mechanical Dimensions & Weight
Connectors & Fasteners Antenna Connection type: SMA jack
Operating Temperatures
Storage Temperatures
Humidity
Certifications
Switching the GPRS modem on/off The device is permanently powered when connected to the USB port.
Voltage Voltage Range: 5 to 32V DC
Parameters
Input average supply current in comm. mode at P
Input average supply current in idle mode 30 30 mA
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)
Interface Connector: USB Type B
Phone Handset: Modular handset jack
SIM receptacle: Standard 3V SIM receptacle
-20° to +55°C
-40° to +85°C
Relative humidity 20% to 90% noncondensing
CE Mark
EMC: FCC Part 2, 15, 22, 24, EN 55022 & EN 55024
Safety: UL 60950, EN 60950
Electrical Characteristics
GND: 0V
Current Requirements
GSM/GPRS 850/900 GSM/GPRS 1800/1900
Typ. Typ.
360 300 mA
max
Unit
Antenna/RF Specifications
Frequency RX
Frequency TX
RF Power Stand
Impedance
VSWR
Typical Radiated Gain
Frequency RX
Frequency TX
RF Power Stand
Impedance
VSWR
Typical Radiated Gain
GSM 850
869 to 894 MHz
824 to 849 MHz
2W at 12.5% duty cycle
50 ohms
<2
0 dBi on azimuth plane
GSM 1800 GSM 1900
1805 to 1880 MHz 1930 to 1990 MHz
1710 to 1785 MHz 1850 to 1910 MHz
1W at 12.5% duty cycle 1W at 12.5% duty cycle
50 ohms
<2
0 dBi on azimuth plane
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 7
Interfaces
The Wireless MultiModem has several interfaces:
• LED function indicating operating status
• External antenna (via SMA connector)
• Serial and control link (via USB connector)
• Microphone and speaker (via handset jack)
• SIM card holder
LEDs
TD Transmit Data. Lit when modem is transmitting data.
RD Receive Data. Lit when modem is receiving data.
CD Carrier Detect. Lit 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. Indicates presence of DC power when lit.
Chapter 2 – Installation
LED Indicators
AT Command Reference Guides
AT commands for the GPRS USB wireless modem are published in a separate GPRS AT Commands
Reference Guide included on the MultiModem CD and posted on the Multi-Tech web site.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 8
Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation
Chapter 2 – Activation and
Installation
Activate Your Wireless Account
Pre-Configuration and Activation
Pre-Configured Multi-Tech Products
Each Multi-T
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 may simply be given to you by
your wireless service provider or it may be on the SIM card or both. Wireless provider implementations may vary.
ech wireless product has been pre-configured to operate on a wireless network.
Insert the SIM Card into the Holder
The wireless MultiModem requires a SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module) to operate on a GSM network. To install
the card, do the following:
1. Using your fingernail or a small wedging tool (e.g., a small screwdriver), pry off the SIM cover.
2. Insert the SIM card into the holder.
3. Verify that the SIM card fits into the holder properly and then replace the cover.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 9
Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem
Connect 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 the other end to the PC.
Step 4 – Handset Connection (Optional)
If you intend to use a phone handset, connect it to the MultiModem now.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 10
Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem
Step 5 – 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 MultiModem. 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 (if applicable).
3. Slide the mounting brackets into the corresponding slots on the backside of the MultiModem chassis.
4. Attach the MultiModem with two screws to the mounting surface at the desired location on the
equipment.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 11
Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem
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 GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 12
Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem
Installing the Modem Driver in Windows Vista
Preliminaries
1. Power up your computer.
2. Windows will detect that the new modem is present.
Driver Installation of your TUSB3410 Serial Port
3. 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.
4. 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 GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 13
Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem
5. Choose Browse my computer for driver software (advanced).
6. At the Browse for driver software on your computer screen, click the Browse button.
7. 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.
8. Windows can’t verify the publisher of this driver software screen appears.
Select Install this driver software anyway.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 14
Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem
9. Installing driver software… screen appears.
10. When the software for this device has been successfully installed screen appears with Windows
has finished installing the driver software for this device: MultiTech Systems USB
GSM_GPRS Wireless Modem.
Click Close.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS USB Wireless Modem User Guide 15
Loading...