Multi-Tech Systems MTCBA-C-U User Manual

®

MultiModem

Wireless Modem

CDMA USB

MTCBA-C-U

User Guide

Copyright and Technical Support

MultiModem® CDMA USB User Guide
Wireless Modem
MTCBA-C-U
S000345G, Revision G

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 © 2006 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 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.

Trademarks and Logos

Multi-Tech 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-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

France: [e-mail] +(33) 1-64 61 09 81
India: [e-mail] [phone]
Europe, Asia, 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

Application Overview...............................................................................................................................................5

Application Types.............................................................................................................................................5

Benefits/Features in Applications............................................................................................................................6

Safety......................................................................................................................................................................7

General Safety.................................................................................................................................................7

RF Interference Issues.....................................................................................................................................7

Vehicle Safety..................................................................................................................................................7

Maintenance of Your Modem...........................................................................................................................8

Your Responsibility..........................................................................................................................................8

Package Contents............................................................................................................................................8

Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................9

Functions – CDMA USB Modes..............................................................................................................................9

Electrical Characteristers........................................................................................................................................9

Antenna/RF Specifications....................................................................................................................................10

Interfaces..............................................................................................................................................................10

LEDs.....................................................................................................................................................................10

AT Command Information.....................................................................................................................................10

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation....................................................................................................................11

Step 1 – Activate Your Wireless Account..............................................................................................................11

Step 2 – Hook up the Antenna and USB Cable ....................................................................................................11

Step 3 – Handset Connection (Optional)...............................................................................................................12

Step 4 – Attach the Modem to a Flat Surface (Optional)......................................................................................12

Step 5 – Install the Modem Driver.........................................................................................................................14

Introduction....................................................................................................................................................14

Installing the Modem Driver in Windows XP/2003 .........................................................................................14

Installing the Modem Driver in Windows 2000...............................................................................................18

Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem ................................................................................................................22

Phone Numbers for the Wireless Modem .............................................................................................................22

Examples of Useful AT Commands ......................................................................................................................22

Verifying Signal Strength ...............................................................................................................................22

Checking Network Registration and Roaming Status.....................................................................................22

Checking the Modem’s Identity......................................................................................................................22

Establishing a Voice Call ...............................................................................................................................23

Establishing a Circuit-Switched Data (CSD) Connection ...............................................................................23

Answering a Circuit-Switched Data (CSD) Connection..................................................................................23

Using Short Message Services (SMS)..................................................................................................................24

SMS Examples ..............................................................................................................................................25

Internet Access.....................................................................................................................................................26

Connecting to the CDMA Network for Internet Access ..................................................................................26

Mobile PhoneTools ...............................................................................................................................................28

Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions............................................................................29

Troubleshooting Examples....................................................................................................................................29

Situation A: The modem does not respond through the serial link.................................................................29

Frequently Asked Questions.................................................................................................................................30

Chapter 6 – Reference Information...........................................................................................................................32

Wireless Modem Reference Information...............................................................................................................32

General..........................................................................................................................................................32

Appendix A – Warranty and Repairs........................................................................................................................33

Appendix B - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Statement ..................................................... 35

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

Application Overview

Application Types

With packet data speeds up to 153K bps, the MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem is targeted at
applications that periodically need to send or receive data over a wireless network. It is an ideal solution for:

Appliances
ATM Terminals
Automotive
Data Collection
Gas Pumps
Industrial and Medical Remote Monitoring Systems
Remote Diagnostics
Remote Metering
Security Systems
Vending/Gaming Machines
Other devices requiring wireless connectivity.

Note: The Wireless MultiModem must be mounted with at least 8

inches (20 cm) of clearance from the human body.

RS23 2

Wireless Mu ltiModem used in
remote ATM application.

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

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Benefits/Features in Applications

Short Development Time. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem can make your existing and next
generation device, machine, or system, communication-ready without requiring any hardware changes to its
design. It actually provides faster time-to-market because it relieves the burden and expense of obtaining
network and RF approvals. This complete, ready-to-deploy wireless modem allows you to enhance your
product while you focus on developing its core features.

Voice Features. The MultiModem CDMA USB provides telephony and Dual Tone Multi Frequency (DTMF)
functionality as well as QCELP (13K) and echo cancellation.

Short Message Services. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem offers SMS features such cell
broadcast, Over the Air Activation (OTA), OTASP, and OTAPA. It is SMS Mobile Originated and SMS Mobile
Terminated.

Compatible Supplementary Services. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem is compatible with
supplementary services such as call forwarding, call barring, multiparty, call waiting and call hold, calling line
identification, closed user group and explicit call transfer.

Management Features. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem provides advanced management
features including phone book management, fixed dialing number, and real time clock and alarm management.

Industry-standard Modem Commands. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem provides industry­standard AT-style commands for ease of integration into your existing software application.

Industrial Chassis. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem is packaged in a rugged, water resistant,
industrial chassis. The chassis has an RS-232 DE-15 Voice/Data interface connector and a permanent screw­type power connector. It also has an SMA antenna connector. The chassis can be side-mounted on a panel or
top-mounted on a desktop or other surface. A set of LEDs indicates the modem’s operational status.

Packet-Switched Data. The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem supports CDMA2000 1xRTT packet­switched cellular data. This enables mobile Internet functionality by allowing interworking between the existing
Internet and the cellular network at speeds up to 153.6K bps (forward and reverse). Any service that is used
over the fixed Internet today – File Transfer Protocol (FTP), web browsing, chat, e-mail, telnet – is available
over the cellular network, as well.

Circuit-Switched Data (CSD). The MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem supports CDMA IS-95A and
IS-95B circuit-switched cellular data connections. Circuit-switched data connections support speeds up to

14.4K bps as well as Class 2.0 Group 3 fax. CSD cellular wireless connections are ideal for applications that
require a quick wireless replacement of an existing point-to-point analog dial-up connection. They integrate
seamlessly with your current application requiring little infrastructure change.

Internet-Enabled. Some models of the MultiModem CDMA USB Wireless Modem include an embedded
TCP/IP protocol stack to bring Internet connectivity to any device without making changes to its hardware
design. Using the Internet protocols and the wirless connection to an IP network, the modem sends and
receives data over the Internet. It can also serve a single web page in response to a web browser request.

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

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 7

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

Single Package (one unit) Bundled Package (multiple units)

1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 Quick Start Guide

Each individual package in the bundle includes the following:

1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 USB cable
1 antenna
4 adhesive-backed rubber feet for table-top mounting
1 MultiModem CD
1 Quick Start Guide

Parts to be Supplied by End User

• mounting screws (screw shaft diameter = .17” max.)

• antenna (Basic Package)

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

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 (OTA), 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 9

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 10

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation

Chapter 2 – Activation and

Installation

Step 1 – Activate Your Wireless Account

Multi-Tech – A Certified National Activation Agent

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. is a certified national activation agent for Cingular and Sprint wireless. For more
information about available data plans and to purchase and activate a wireless data account, contact Multi­Tech at 888-288-5470.

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.

Step 2 – Hook up the Antenna and USB Cable

Antenna

Connect a suitable antenna to the SMA connector (see antenna specifications on page 10).

USB Cable

Connect the USB cable to the modem and to the USB connector on the PC.

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