Multi-Tech Systems MTCBA-G-F4 User Manual

®

MultiModem

Wireless Modem

GPRS

MTCBA-G-F4

User Guide

Copyright and Technical Support

MultiModem® GPRS User Guide
Wireless Modem
MTCBA-G-F4
S000443A, Revision A

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 © 2007 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 10/03/07 Initial Release

Trademarks and Logos

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.

Technical Support
Country By Email By Phone

Europe, Middle East, Africa: [e-mail] +(44) 118 959 7774
U.S., Canada, all others: [e-mail] 800-972-2439 or 763-717-5863

World Headquarters

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
2205 Woodale Drive
Mounds View, Minnesota 55112
Phone: [phone] or 800-328-9717
Fax: [phone]
Internet Address: http://www.multitech.com

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS 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

Installation Instructions and Hazardous Locations Warnings...........................................................................5

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

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

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

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

General Specifications .........................................................................................................................................7

Functions – GSM/GPRS Modes...........................................................................................................................7

Electrical Specifications.......................................................................................................................................7

RF Specifications..................................................................................................................................................8

Antenna Specifications ........................................................................................................................................8

GSM/EGSM Antenna Requirements/Specifications.........................................................................................8

Antennas Available from Multi-Tech Systems, Inc...........................................................................................8

PTCRB Requirements Note.............................................................................................................................8

FCC Requirements Note..................................................................................................................................8

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

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

RS232 15-Pin Connector Pinout..........................................................................................................................9

AT Command Information....................................................................................................................................9

Chapter 2 – Activation and Installation....................................................................................................................10

Step 1 – Activate Your Wireless Account .........................................................................................................10

Step 2 – Insert the SIM Card into the Holder ....................................................................................................10

Step 3 – Hook up the Antenna, Serial Cable, and Power.................................................................................11

Step 4 – Optional – Attach the Modem to a Flat Surface.................................................................................13

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

Chapter 3 – Using Your Wireless Modem ................................................................................................................15

Phone Numbers for the Wireless Modem.........................................................................................................15

Examples of Useful AT Commands...................................................................................................................15

Verifying Signal Strength ...............................................................................................................................15

Checking Network Registration and Roaming Status.....................................................................................15

Checking the Modem’s Identity......................................................................................................................15

Establishing a Voice Call ...............................................................................................................................16

Establishing a Circuit-Switched Data (CSD) Connection ...............................................................................16

Answering a Circuit-Switched Data (CSD) Connection..................................................................................16

Using Short Message Services (SMS)...............................................................................................................17

SMS Examples .............................................................................................................................................. 18

Internet Access ...................................................................................................................................................20

Connecting to the GPRS Network for Internet Access...................................................................................20

Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions............................................................................22

Troubleshooting Examples................................................................................................................................22

Frequently Asked Questions .............................................................................................................................23

Chapter 5 – Reference Information...........................................................................................................................25

Wireless Modem Reference Information...........................................................................................................25

Data Cable Diagram – No Voice....................................................................................................................25

Data Cable Diagram – with Voice..................................................................................................................26

Fused DC Power Cable Dimensions..............................................................................................................26

How to Change the Fuse...............................................................................................................................26

Appendix A – Warranty and Repairs........................................................................................................................27

Appendix B - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Statement .....................................................29

Appendix C – C-ROHS HT/TS Substance Concentration........................................................................................30

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

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

Chapter 1 – Product Description

and Specifications

Product Description

The Multi-Tech MultiModem® GPRS 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 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 GRPS Wireless Modem is based on industry­standard open interfaces, is fully type approved, and can be desktop or panel mounted.

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

• Quad-band 850/900/1800/1900

• 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

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem GPRS 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.

Installation Instructions and Hazardous Locations
Warnings

1. The modems are open devices intended for installation in an ultimate enclosure suitable for the intended

application.

2. THIS EQUIPMENT IS SUITABLE FOR USE IN CLASS I, DIVISION 2, GROUPS A, B, C, AND D OR NON-

HAZARDOUS LOCATIONS ONLY.

3. “WARNING – Explosion Hazard – Substitution of Components may Impair Suitability for Class I Division 2”.

4. “WARNING – Explosion Hazard – Do not Disconnect Equipment Unless Power has been switched off or the

area is known to be Non-Hazardous”.

5. “WARNING – Explosion Hazard - Do not replace the Fuse Unless Power has been switched off or the area

is known to be Non-Hazardous”.

6. “WARNING – Do not install or remove SIM card unless power has been switched off or the area is known to

be Non-Hazardous”.

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 GPRS 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

Unbundled Package
Modem with No Accessories

1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 fused DC power cable
1 Quick Start Guide
1 MultiModem CD

Note: You must supply bracket
screws and an antenna.

Bundled Package
Modem with Accessories

1 modem
1 mounting bracket
1 antenna
1 serial cable
1 DC power supply/cable (varies)
4 rubber feet
1 Quick Start Guide
1 MultiModem CD

Note: You must supply bracket
screws.

Note:

Your wireless provider will supply the SIM card.

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

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

General Specifications

General Specifications

Power Requirements
Mechanical Dimensions & Weight

Connectors & Fasteners Antenna Connection type: SMA jack

5 V to 32VDC; 400mA Average @5V, 1A Peak @ 5V

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)

Serial Connector: DE15
Pins: RS232 link, audio link, BOOT, RESET
Power Connector: 2.5mm miniature power jack
SIM receptacle: standard 3V

Operating Temperatures
Storage Temperatures
Humidity
Certifications

-30° to +70°C

-40° to +85°C
Relative humidity 20% to 90% noncondensing
CE Mark, R&TTE

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

Functions – GSM/GPRS Modes

Mode Description
Standard

Interface
SMS

Data
Fax
GPRS

Quad Band 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Serial interface RS-232. V.24/V.28 Autobauding function.
Mobile Originated (MO) and Mobile Terminated (MT) SMS Mode Text & PDU point to point. Cell

broadcast in accordance with GSM 07.05.
Data circuit asynchronous, transparent, non-transparent up to 14,400 bits
Class 1 and Class 2 Group 3 compatible.
Class 10. Coding schemes: CS1 to CS4.

Electrical Specifications

Electrical Characteristics

Switching on/off
Voltage Range

Over voltage and under voltage

The device is permanently powered (when connected to the power supply).
Voltage range : 5 to 32V DC

GND : 0V
Correct operation of the Wireless MultiModem in communication mode is

not guaranteed if input voltage falls below 5V.

Input/output electrical characteristics for external connections

Parameters
Typ. Typ.

Input Supply Voltage
Input peak supply current in comm. mode at P
Input average supply current in comm. mode at P

Input average supply current in idle mode

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

max

GSM/GPRS 850/900 GSM/GPRS 1800/1900

5 13.2 32 5 13.2 32 V

max

1 .4 .2 1 .4 .2 A

360 150 75 300 125 70 mA

30 10 10 30 10 10 mA

Unit

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

RF Specifications

Frequency RX
Frequency TX

RF Power Stand

GSM 850 EGSM 900 GSM 1800 GSM 1900

869 to 894 MHz 925 to 960 MHz 1805 to 1800 MHz 1930 to 1990 MHz
824 to 849 MHz 880 to 915 MHz 1710 to 1785 MHz 1850 to 1910 MHz

2W at 12.5% duty
cycle

2W at 12.5% duty
cycle

1W at 12.5% duty
cycle

1W at 12.5% duty
cycle

Antenna Specifications

GSM/EGSM Antenna Requirements/Specifications

Frequency Range: 824 – 960 MHz / 1710 – 1990 MHz
Impedance: 50 Ohms
VSWR: <2.0:1
Typical Radiated Gain: 3 dBi on azimuth plane
Radiation: Omni
Polarization: Vertical
Wave: Half Wave Dipole

Antennas Available from Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.

Description Part Number

Hinged Right Angle 900/1800 MHz Cellular Modem Antenna ANF1-1HRA
Hinged Right Angle 800/1900 MHz Cellular Modem Antenna ANF21HRA
Hinged Right Angle 850/900/1800/1900 MHz Cellular Modem Antenna ANQB-1HRA

PTCRB Requirements Note

There cannot be any alteration to the authorized antenna system. The antenna system must be the same type
with similar in-band and out-of-ban radiation patterns and maintain the same specifications.

FCC Requirements Note

The antenna gain, including cable loss, must not exceed 3.0 dBi at 1900 MHz / 1.6 dBi at 850 MHz for mobile
operating configurations and 7.0 dBi at 1900 MHz / 2.3 dBi at 850 MHz for fixed mounted operations, as defined
in 2.1091 and 1.1307 of the rules for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

Interfaces

The Wireless MultiModem has several interfaces:

• LED function indicating operating status

• External antenna (via SMA connector)

• Serial and control link (via 15 pins SUB D)

• Power supply (via 2.5mm miniature power jack)

• SIM card holder

LEDs

LED Indicators

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.

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

Chapter 1 – Product Description and Specifications

RS232 15-Pin Connector Pinout

10

15

PIN EIA CCIT Designation

RS-232

Audio

Boot 3 BOOT For factory use only.
Reset 14 RESET To reset, connect to GND momentarily (typical:

1 DCD 109 Data Carrier Direct
6 RX 104 Receive Data (out)
2 TX 103 Transmit Data
8 DTR 108.2 Data Terminal Ready
9 GND Signal Ground

7 DSR 107 Data Set Ready
12 RTS 105 Request to Send
11 CTS 106 Clear to Send
13 RI 125 Ring Indicator

4 MICROPHONE (+)

5 MICROPHONE (-)
10 SPEAKER (+)
15 SPEAKER (-)

15

6

11

2mSec). Open for normal operation.

AT Command Information

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

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

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