AirCard® 580 Wireless Modem
User Guide
2130374 v3
Preface
Important Notice Due to the nature of wireless communications, transmission
and reception of data can never be guaranteed. Data may be
delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors) or be totally lost.
Although significant delays or losses of data are rare when
wireless devices such as the Sierra Wireless modem are used in
a normal manner with a well-constructed network, the Sierra
Wireless modem should not be used in situations where failure
to transmit or receive data could result in damage of any kind
to the user or any other party, including but not limited to
personal injury, death, or loss of property. Sierra Wireless
accepts no responsibility for damages of any kind resulting
from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using the
Sierra Wireless modem, or for failure of the Sierra Wireless
modem to transmit or receive such data.
Safety and Hazards Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in areas where
blasting is in progress, where explosive atmospheres may be
present, near medical equipment, near life support equipment,
or any equipment which may be susceptible to any form of
radio interference. In such areas, the Sierra Wireless modem
MUST BE POWERED OFF. The Sierra Wireless modem can
transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment.
Limitation of Liability
Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in any aircraft,
whether the aircraft is on the ground or in flight. In aircraft, the
Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE POWERED OFF. When
operating, the Sierra Wireless modem can transmit signals that
could interfere with various onboard systems.
Note: Some airlines may permit the use of cellular phones while the
aircraft is on the ground and the door is open. Sierra Wireless
modems may be used at this time.
The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the
Sierra Wireless modem while in control of a vehicle. Doing so
will detract from the driver or operatorʹs control and operation
of that vehicle. In some states and provinces, operating such
communications devices while in control of a vehicle is an
offence.
The information in this manual is subject to change without
notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of
Sierra Wireless. SIERRA WIRELESS AND ITS AFFILIATES
SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL
DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, GENERAL, INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS OR
v3 Mar.11 i
Us er Gui de
REVENUE OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS OR REVENUE
ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE ANY
SIERRA WIRELESS PRODUCT, EVEN IF SIERRA WIRELESS
AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR THEY ARE
FORESEEABLE OR FOR CLAIMS BY ANY THIRD PARTY.
Not withstanding the foregoing, in no event shall Sierra
Wireless. and/or its affiliates aggregate liability arising under
or in connection with the Sierra Wireless product, regardless of
the number of events, occurrences, or claims giving rise to
liability, be in excess of the price paid by the purchaser for the
Sierra Wireless product.
Patents & Licenses This product may contain technology developed by or for
Sierra Wireless Inc.
This product includes technology licensed from
QUALCOMM® 3G.
This product is manufactured or sold by Sierra Wireless Inc. or
its aliates under one or more patents licensed from
InterDigital Group.
Copyright ©2011 Sierra Wireless. All rights reserved.
Trademarks AirCard and “Heart of the Wireless Machine” are registered
trademarks of Sierra Wireless Sierra Wireless, the Sierra
Wireless logo, the red wave design, the red-tipped antenna,
and Watcher are trademarks of Sierra Wireless.
®
Windows
Qualcomm
rated.
Other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.
is a registered trademark of Microso Corporation.
®
is a registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorpo-
ii 2130374
Contact Information
Preface
Sales Desk: Phone: 1-604-232-1488
Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm Pacific Time
E-mail: sales@sierrawireless.com
Post: Sierra Wireless
13811 Wireless Way,
Richmond, BC
Canada V6V 3A4
Fax: 1-604-231-1109
Web: www.sierrawireless.com
Your comments and suggestions on improving this documentation are welcome and appreciated. Please e-mail your
feedback to documentation@sierrawireless.com. Thank you.
Consult our website for up-to-date product descriptions,
documentation, application notes, firmware upgrades, troubleshooting tips, and press releases:
www.sierrawireless.com
v3 Mar.11 iii
User Guide
iv 2130374
Table of Contents
1: Introducing the AirCard 580 Wireless Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Package contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Feature summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Verizon Wireless BroadbandAccess/NationalAccess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
System components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Care and maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2: Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
The AirCard 580 software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Your account and coverage area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3: Installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
System requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Part 1: AirCard 580 software installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Part 2: Inserting and removing the AirCard 580 and driver installation . . . . 12
Inserting the AirCard 580 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Removing the AirCard 580 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Part 3: Activating the AirCard 580 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
TM
4: Watcher
Launching and exiting Watcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Connect and disconnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Components of the Watcher window (Full Mode View) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
System tray mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5: Understanding Alert Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
3G service alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Basics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
v3 Mar.11 2130374
AirCard 580 User Guide
Auto-connect alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Auto-connection failure alert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Call lost alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Card eject warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Connection in progress alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Premium service alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Power on card alert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Reset call log information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Security lock enabled alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Security enter lock code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Security incorrect lock code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Software mismatch alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Tray mode alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6: Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
7: Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
8: Regulatory and Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
v3 Mar.11 2130374
1: Introducing the AirCard® 580 Wireless Modem
•Welcome
• Package contents
• Feature summary
• System components
• Care and maintenance Welcome
1
Note: Do not insert the AirCard
into your PC Card slot prior to
installing the software. It is
important to install the software
and driver in the correct order.
(See Chapter 3: “Installation
Procedures”, beginning on page
9).
The AirCard® 580 wireless modem is a dual-band wireless
PC Card that provides true wireless Internet access leveraging
Verizon Wireless’ premier high-speed data networks, BroadbandAccess
functionality of your notebook PC by adding access to highspeed wireless data.
The AirCard 580 functions as a wireless modem with WWAN
(Wireless Wide Area Network) connectivity. This card allows
you to connect to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and
connect to a corporate network (VPN) without the need of a
network cable or phone line.
SM
and NationalAccessSM. It enhances the
Package contents
Your AirCard 580 package contains the following components:
• AirCard 580 wireless modem
• Card case for portable storage
• Installation CD containing the AirCard software and this
User Guide
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card
Feature summary
Note: For step by step instructions to access features of the
AirCard 580, consult the online
help available with Watcher.
v3 Mar.11 1
The AirCard® 580 wireless modem is designed to provide a
wide range of capabilities using CDMA network technology.
Implementation of these features will depend on network
coverage availability and account features you have chosen.
Contact Verizon Wireless Customer Service for details of the
services and accounts available at
1-800-2-JOIN-IN.
User Guide
A Type II PC card wireless modem
The AirCard fits into the standard (Type II) PC Card slot
available on most notebook PCs. Once installed and
configured, the AirCard 580 connects to the high-speed third
generation (3G) CDMA wireless network. You just insert the
AirCard 580, allow Watcher to autolaunch, click connect, then
launch your Internet browser—you’re on-line!
Verizon Wireless
NationalAccess/BroadbandAccess
The AirCard 580 operates on Verizon Wireless NationalAccess/
BroadbandAccess networks which leverage a 3G wireless
cellular technology called CDMA (Code Division Multiple
Access).
3G CDMA technology provides a variety of connectivity
features, depending on network coverage availabilty and
account features:
• BroadbandAccess is Verizon Wireless’ premier high-speed
wireless data network and is one of the fastest, fully
mobile wireless Internet data solutions available. Leveraging 3G CDMA 1xEVDO, the AirCard quickly
downloads complex files and views email attachments at
typical speeds of 300-500 kbps, capable of reaching speeds
up to 2 Mbps.
• NationalAccess is Verizon Wireless’ national wireless
Internet service that operates on 3G CDMA 1xRTT
technology. NationalAccess enables users to access the
Internet, corporate email, attachments, and business applications with a laptop at typical speeds of 40-60 kbps and
bursts up to 144 kbps. NationalAccess is available in
thousands of cities and towns across America.
SM
Once the connection is established, you can open your browser
and connect to any web site that is accessible through the
Internet, or access other Internet services (such as e-mail and
your corporate VPN).
Additional AirCard 580 features
Beyond the features of high-speed wireless connectivity, the
AirCard 580 provides additional software and hardware
features:
• PIN security code to protect your AirCard and account
from unauthorized use.
2 2130374
Introducing the AirCard® 580 Wireless Modem
• A 32-bit Cardbus electrical interface that extends battery
life.
• An Activation Wizard (page 14) to assist with configuring
your CDMA accounts.
• Customized settings for alerts, auto-connection, and more.
TM
• Supports Venturi Wireless
software to boost performance while surfing the web.
network optimization
System components
Your AirCard 580 wireless modem is just one part of a system
designed to provide you with a wide range of communication
features. Every component of the system is needed to enable
these capabilities.
Your host computing device
Your notebook PC hosts the AirCard hardware and runs the
communication software: your web browser and e-mail application, and Watcher—the AirCard enabling software.
You may also have other software on your computer that can
be used wirelessly with the AirCard 580, such as: file transfer
protocol (FTP), chat or instant messaging, and VPN (Virtual
Private Network) client software for a corporate server.
The AirCard 580 wireless modem
The AirCard fits into a standard Type II PC Card slot available
on most notebook PCs.
As a dual-band product, the AirCard 580 provides all the
advantages of BroadbandAccess where it is available while
allowing you to use the widely available NationalAccess
network where BroadbandAccess has not yet been implemented. The benefits to you are that you can use the AirCard
in any area that has coverage (assuming there are no account
restrictions) and you will be able to take advantage of the
fastest possible data transmission speed.
AirCard software and driver
Required to control, monitor, and manage your wireless
connections is the Sierra Wireless Watcher™ software. The
driver enables the AirCard to work with your computer’s
operating system.
v3 Mar.11 3
User Guide
The AirCard comes with a CD containing this software:
• The Watcher application required to manage the AirCard
and monitor your connections. (This User Guide outlines
the details of Watcher).
• The driver software that enables communication between
the AirCard and your Windows
®
operating system.
The driver and application software must be installed before
you insert the AirCard 580 for the first time. Detailed instructions are provided in Chapter 3: “Installation Procedures”,
beginning on page 9.
A Verizon Wireless account
In order to begin using the AirCard 580, you must have an
account with Verizon Wireless.
Note: You can use the Lock
Code feature to prevent others
from using your account should
your AirCard be stolen. (See
Chapter 4: “Watcher Basics”,
page 25 for more information on
this security feature).
Note: More information about
CDMA networks is available on
the CDMA Development Group
web site, www.cdg.org.
Note: To review coverage maps
and roaming options, visit:
www.verizonwireless.com.
Each AirCard 580 has been provisioned at the factory for use
with Verizon Wireless. The process of configuring your
account is called activation. Review the various account options
available at
Customer Service at:
verizonwireless.com, or call Verizon Wireless
1-800-2-JOIN-IN.
Procedures to activate your AirCard are covered in Chapter 3.
The 3G CDMA wireless network
This is the worldwide infrastructure providing the radio
coverage that allows you to stay connected. Made up of radio
towers, and a variety of network switches, routers, and servers,
the network is an interconnection of many service provider
companies.
There are CDMA networks, that operate in the frequency
bands supported by the AirCard 580 throughout North
America and parts of Latin America, Asia, New Zealand, and
Australia. However, each service provider operates a network
that covers a limited geographical area within the overall
CDMA coverage area.
Most service providers have “roaming” agreements with other
service providers, so that they can offer service outside of the
coverage area of their own networks. For example, assuming
you live in Seattle, Washington and travel frequently to
Vancouver, Canada, you can obtain an account with a service
provider in Seattle that has a roaming agreement with a
service provider in Vancouver. You would then have local
service in Seattle, and roaming service in Vancouver.
4 2130374
Introducing the AirCard® 580 Wireless Modem
Care and maintenance
As with any electronic device, the AirCard must be handled
with care to ensure reliable operation. Follow these guidelines
in using and storing the AirCard:
• Do not apply adhesive labels to the AirCard. This may
cause the AirCard to become jammed inside the card slot.
• Optimal signal strength is usually obtained when the
antenna is perpendicular to the modem. The antenna
should bend easily at the hinge. Do not forcefully bend the
antenna.
• When storing or transporting your PC in a case (such as a
notebook case), remove the AirCard antenna and store it in
a compartment where it cannot be crushed or broken.
• The AirCard should fit easily into your PC Card slot.
Forcing the AirCard into a slot may damage connector
pins.
• Protect the card from liquids, dust, and excessive heat.
When not installed in your computer, store the AirCard in
a safe place.
v3 Mar.11 5
User Guide
6 2130374
2: Getting Started
• The AirCard 580
software
• Your account and
coverage area
Note: Do not insert the AirCard
580 into your notebook’s PC
card slot until you are prompted
to do so by Watcher.
Before you can begin using the AirCard 580 wireless modem,
you must:
1. Install the Watcher software and the AirCard drivers.
2. Obtain a CDMA account (if this wasn’t done when you
purchased the card).
3. Activate an account and configure the AirCard to use your
account (unless the AirCard has been pre-activated).
This section provides an overview of this process.
The AirCard 580 software
The AirCard comes with this software:
• An application called Watcher™ that you use to manage
the AirCard and monitor your connections.
• The driver software that forms the interface between the
network card and your Windows operating system.
The Watcher software should be installed before you insert the
AirCard 580 for the first time. Detailed instructions are
provided in Chapter 3: “Installation Procedures”.
2
Your account and coverage area
You must have an account with Verizon Wireless to use the
AirCard 580. The process of setting up an account is called
activation.
Before you can use the AirCard, you must install the AirCard
software and ensure that your AirCard is configured to use
your account. Instructions on completeing these steps are
provided in the chapters that follow.
Once installed and configured, you can connect to the Internet
with the AirCard in any area in which you may obtain Verizon
Wireless BroadbandAccess and/or NationalAccess service.
Your ability to obtain service depends on these factors:
• Proximity to a CDMA network - You must be within the
coverage area of a CDMA network on which 1x-EV-DO
and 1xRTT has been implemented, in order to use the
AirCard.
v3 Mar.11 7
User Guide
Note: Additional fees may apply when roaming.
• Roaming agreement - If you are within the coverage area
of a network that is not operated by Verizon Wireless , you
can only obtain service if your plan includes roaming.
• Account provisions - Your account may restrict your
usage to certain networks or limit the amount of time you
can use the network.
Visit the Verizon Wireless website for coverage maps and
detailed roaming information.
Unless your AirCard has been pre-activated, Watcher automatically detects that no account has been configured when you
run it for the first time. Watcher then runs the Activation
Wizard to guide you through the activation and configuration
process. (See Chapter 3 for complete steps on Activaton).
8 2130374
User Guide
3: Installation Procedures
• Overview
• Part 1: AirCard 580
software installation
• Part 2: Inserting and
removing the
AirCard 580 and
driver installation
• Part 3: Activating the
AirCard 580 with a
service provider
Note: Do not insert the
AirCard 580 into your PC Card
slot before installing the
software.
Overview
This chapter is separated into three parts that guide you
through the steps necessary to install and to begin using the
AirCard 580.
The basic steps are:
1. Insert the AirCard 580 installation CD into your CD-ROM
drive to install Watcher.
2. Insert the AirCard 580 into the PC Card slot to install the
AirCard 580 driver.
3. If the AirCard 580 has not been pre-activated, use the
Activation Wizard to configure the AirCard 580 (as
described in Part 3 of this chapter: “Activating the AirCard
580 with a service provider,” beginning on page 14).
3
Note: The AirCard 580 is not
designed to function in
Handhelds and Pocket PCs, nor
does it support SMS or voice
services.
Before you begin the installation process, ensure your PC
meets the hardware requirements described below.
System requirements
The AirCard 580 wireless modem is supported on notebook
PCs equipped with the following Windows® operating
systems:
• Windows 98 SE
• Windows Me
• Windows 2000 (with Service Pack 3 for optimal perfor-
mance)
• Windows XP
To install the AirCard 580, you require these system resources
Table 3-1: System Resource Requirements
Card Slots 1 Type II PCMCIA (PC Card) Slot
Disk Drive CD-ROM (for installation only)
v3 Mar.11 9
User Guide
Table 3-1: System Resource Requirements (cont.)
Processor Pentium 150 MHz or higher
Memory at least 32 MB
Disk Space at least 14 MB
Dial-up Networking DUN bound to TCP/IP
Part 1: AirCard 580 software
installation
Windows 98 SE, Me, 2000, and XP
installation procedures
To install Watcher and the AirCard 580 drivers:
Windows 2000 & XP: You may require administrative privileges to
install the AirCard 580.
1. The Installation CD launches automatically. Select Install
Watcher
2. Click
3. Use the
wizard noting the following:
· You must click
· Use the default settings for the
· To customize Watcher to launch automatically each time
· Click
and a welcome window appears.
Next on the Watcher Setup Welcome window.
Next and Back buttons to navigate through the
Yes to indicate your acceptance of the
terms of the license agreement to proceed with the
installation.
Destination Location and
Program Folder unless you have special requirements and
an advanced understanding of PC configuration. (The
Destination Location dictates where the software is
installed. The
to the software in Add/Remove Programs in the Control
Panel.)
your notebook PC starts up, select the
Start up
desktop, providing you with the option of launching
Watcher by double clicking an icon on your desktop (as
well as from the Start menu), select the
check box. (You may select both).
Finish to close the last screen of the wizard.
Program Folder dictates the name assigned
Run Watcher at
check box. To add the Watcher shortcut to your
Desktop Shortcut
10 2130374
Installation Procedures
Windows Me: It is recommended that your restart your PC at this
time before proceeding with the insertion of the AirCard 580 and
driver installation.
Windows 98 SE: Allow your notebook PC to fully restart before
proceeding with the insertion of the AirCard 580 and driver installation.
4. Skip to step 5 if you did not check the option Run Watcher at
Start up
from the Setup window (refer to step 3).
Skip to step 6 if you did check the option
Start up
5. If you selected the
from the Setup window (refer to step 3).
Desktop Shortcut option only from the
Run Watcher at
Watcher Setup window (refer to step 3) in order to
manually launch Watcher, double-click the Watcher icon
located on your desktop or access Watcher from the
Windows Start menu:
Figure 3-1: AirCard 580 Watcher desktop icon
Start > Programs > Watcher.
6. Watcher launches and the system tray icon appears:
Figure 3-2: Watcher System tray icon
7. Watcher instructs you to insert the AirCard 580. Continue
to Part 2: Inserting the AirCard 580 and driver installation.
Figure 3-3: Watcher Full Mode view - Please Insert Card
v3 Mar.11 11
User Guide
Part 2: Inserting and removing
the AirCard 580 and driver
installation
This section outlines proper insertion and removal of the
AirCard 580 into your notebook PC and explains the steps of
driver installation.
Inserting the AirCard 580
To insert the AirCard 580 into your notebook PC:
Note: Before inserting the
AirCard 580 into your PC Card
slot, it is recommended that you
remove the Installation CD from
your CD-ROM drive.
Note: If your AirCard 580 has
not been activated, you will need
to follow the steps required for
activation to begin using the
AirCard 580. (See Part 3:
“Activating the AirCard 580” in
this Chapter, beginning on page
14.)
1. Insert the AirCard 580 into the PC Card slot with the label
facing up. Then, raise the antenna so that it is fully
extended and pointed up at a 90
other configuration may exceed FCC RF Exposure Limits.
When you insert the AirCard, the following should occur:
• If sound effects are enabled, the PC beeps.
• The PC Card icon appears in the status area, if it is not
already displayed for another card, (and unless the feature
has been disabled).
• Watcher launches (unless the auto launch feature has been
disabled).
• The AirCard 580 is powered as soon as you insert it.
WARNING: Once the card is inserted, DO NOT physically remove
the AirCard 580 until you have reviewed instructions for proper
removal on page 12. Removing the AirCard 580 improperly may
damage your notebook PC.
degree angle. Use in any
Removing the AirCard 580
To remove the AirCard 580 (Windows 98 SE, 2000, Me, or XP):
1. Verify that Watcher is disconnected and that a connection
is no longer active. (See Chapter 4: Watcher Basics,
beginning on page 17 for more information).
2. Right or left-click on the Watcher icon found in the system
tray and select
3. Double-click the Unplug/Eject Hardware PC Card icon in
the system tray to display the option to stop the card.
Exit from the menu.
Windows 2000 & Me Windows XP Windows 98 SE
Figure 3-4: Unplug/Eject hardware icons
12 2130374
Installation Procedures
4. Select the following menu selection from the ʺUnplug or
Eject Hardware
Stop to proceed:
click
· Windows 98 SE and Me ONLY: Select ʺ
USB Open Host Controller
· Windows 2000 ONLY: Select
Host Controller”
ʺ window for your operating system and
Wireless PC Card
ʺ
“Standard OpenHCD USB
· Windows XP ONLY: Select “Lucent USB OpenHost
Controller”
5. Select the appropriate menu selection for your operating
system from the "
Stop a Hardware Device" window. (Refer to
step 4)
Tip: Windows shortcut for
Unplug/Eject and Stop Hardware
steps: Left-click on the "Unplug
and Eject Hardware" icon found
in the system tray. A menu
appears. Select the appropriate
selection for your operating
system (see step 5) and click OK
when the Safe to Remove
Hardware window appears.
6. Once the “Safe to Remove Hardware” message appears, click
OK.
7. You may now remove the AirCard 580 from your
notebook. Use the ejector button on your notebook to eject
the AirCard 580 from the slot. Do not pull the AirCard 580
out by the antenna.
Figure 3-5: Proper PC card insertion and removal
Driver installation
driver:
A driver is software that provides the interface between
a device (such as the AirCard 580) and the operating
system on your PC (such as Windows Me).
1. Once the card is properly inserted, your Windows
operating system will notify you that new hardware has
been detected. Please review the following notes :
v3 Mar.11 13
User Guide
Windows 98 SE/2000/Me: Once you have inserted the card properly
your Windows operating system will notify you that new hardware has
been detected. Please wait for the “Found New Hardware” function to
complete the automated tasks. (Multiple windows will appear briefly.
Once complete you will be prompted to begin activation).
Windows XP: Once you have inserted the card properly, your
Windows operating system will notify you that new hardware has been
detected. Please wait for the “Found New Hardware” function to
complete the automated tasks. (Multiple ToolTips will appear briefly in
the system tray. Once complete you will be prompted to begin
activation).
If you previously installed drivers for your AirCard 580, a
message will appear:
· If you have installed an earlier version of the drivers,
Yes to upgrade to the current version. (Recom-
click
mended).
· If you have already installed the current version of the
drivers onto your PC, click
Yes to keep the current
drivers.
· In the event that you have installed a later version of the
drivers, click
Yes to keep the latest version of drivers on
your PC.
Note: If you cancel the
Activation Wizard before
Activation is complete, an
Activation Alert Notification will
be displayed explaining that you
must activate your card in order
to connect to the Internet or
other Internet dependent
function, such as email.
Part 3: Activating the AirCard
with Verizon Wireless
Once the AirCard 580 is properly installed into the Type II PC
Card slot of your notebook PC, the Activation Wizard will
automatically appear. (In order to use your AirCard 580, you
must have an account set up with Verizon Wireless). The
process of setting up an account is called activation.
Follow these steps for activation:
1. The Activation Wizard
automated activation in two simple steps. A window will
automatically appear and activation will begin immediately. This process will last about one minute. Please do
not power off or eject the card during activation.
2. The Automated Activation will complete quickly (about
one minute). Click
few moments for the AirCard 580 to automatically reset.
‘Welcome’ window provides
Finish to complete Activation. Wait a
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Installation Procedures
Note: If you receive a message
explaining that "Activation
Failed" check to ensure that you
are in a strong signal area.
You are now ready to use the Sierra Wireless AirCard 580!
For further assistance, contact Verizon Wireless, toll-free,
1-(800) 2-JOIN-IN (256-4646).
v3 Mar.11 15
User Guide
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4: Watcher™ Basics
• Launching and exiting
Watcher
• Connect and
disconnect
• Components of the
Watcher window
• System tray mode Launching and exiting Watcher
Watcher is the application that allows you to manage and
monitor the connection between the AirCard 580 wireless
modem and the CDMA network. You use Watcher to:
· Determine your signal strength, roaming status, 1xEV-
DO high-speed data availability, and other network
connection parameters
· Initiate data calls
· View call statistics
· Customize features and options
Anytime you use the AirCard you must run Watcher. Once
you make a connection in Watcher, you can launch whatever
application you want to use (such as your web browser or email application).
4
Launching Watcher
Depending on your settings, Watcher launches automatically
anytime you turn on your notebook PC. (See “Action Buttons:
Settings”, further in this chapter on page 24).
You can also launch Watcher by:
• D o u b l e - c l i c k i n g t h e W a t c h e r i c o n o n y o u r
desktop
- or -
•
Start > Programs > Watcher
Watcher launches in Full Mode view by default and the system
tray icon also appears:
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User Guide
Exiting Watcher
In order to close and exit Watcher, you must ensure that you
are disconnected from the network. (See “Connect /
Disconnect” in this chapter on page 18).
1. Click the Watcher system tray icon found in the system
tray and a menu appears:
Figure 4-1: System tray shortcut menu
2. Select Exit from the menu. (This closes and exits Watcher
and the icon disappears from the system tray).
Note: Powering Off the AirCard 580 does not mean that you have exited Watcher.
Note: If you have not activated your AirCard 580, an Activation Alert Notification displays once an attempt to connect is made. The dialog explains that you must activate your card in order to establish a connection.
Powering the AirCard 580 (On/Off)
To power the AirCard 580 on and off:
1. Click the Watcher icon found in your system tray.
2. Select
WARNING: Do not eject theAirCard 580 from your notebook PC until
you have followed the Unplug/Eject Hardware instructions for proper
removal [See Chapter 3, page 12]. Removing the card improperly may
damage your computer.
“Power Off Card” or “Power On Card” from the shortcut
menu.
Connect and disconnect
Connect
Once you have properly inserted the AirCard 580 wireless
modem into your notebook PC’s Type II PC Card slot. Watcher
notifies that it is “Ready” to connect to the network.
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Watcher™ Basics
Note: A “No Service” message appears when the AirCard 580 cannot locate the network.
1. Click the Connect button to establish a connection.
Figure 4-2: Watcher in Full Mode view - Connect action button
2. Watcher will take a few moments to connect to the
network. Once a connection is established, the dialog box
at the bottom of the Watcher window displays the word
“Connected,” notifying that a connection has been established. The
Connect button changes to read Disconnect.
Disconnect
1. To end the current connection, click the Disconnect button.
Figure 4-3: Watcher in Full Mode view - Disconnect action button
2. The dialog box returns to the “Ready” state, notifying that
the current session is no longer active.
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User Guide
Components of the Watcher window
Figure 4-4: Full Mode view of Watcher
Each time Watcher launches, it launches in Full Mode view. In
Full Mode view all menus, indicators, and buttons are
displayed.
The window contains:
· The indicator area which contains icons showing your
signal strength, coverage, and roaming status.
· Action buttons to connect and disconnect, links to
customization menus, a digital help guide, and a
shortcut that closes Full Mode view and enables System
Tray Mode.
In the alternate view, System Tray Mode, Watcher remains
running in the background but no window is displayed. This
feature provides the option of keeping your desktop clear of
multiple windows.
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Indicator area and icons
Depending on the AirCard 580’s operating status, various
icons are displayed in the Indicator Area.
Table 4-1: Indicator Area Icons
Icon Meaning
The Signal Strength icon displays when Watcher is turned on. The bars indicate the
strength of the radio signal. Four bars signify that the signal strength is at its
maximum peak. The strength will change depending on where you are.
This displays when no signal is available or when the AirCard 580 is powered off. The
antenna symbol is red and the bars are dimmed. When this occurs, no connection is
possible for one of the following reasons:
• No antenna is attached
• You are outside the CDMA network coverage area
• The signal strength is too weak
• A network or account problem is preventing the AirCard 580 from obtaining
service
The Service Indicator icons display which network service is currently available at
your location (3G - 1xEV-DO and 1xRTT or 2G)
Watcher™ Basics
1xEV-DO service is the default connection. This icon displays “3G 1x EVDO” and
communicates that the 1xEV-DO network is available. Watcher defaults to the best
available network connection once connected. (For example: if all three connection
types are available, Watcher selects the 1xEV-DO connection first, by default,
because it is the premier service).
The “3G 1xRTT” icon signifies that because the 1xEV-DO network is currently
unavailable, Watcher establishes a session with the next best network connection
available (1xRTT).
The “2G” icon signifies that only the 2G network is available. The “3G 1xEVDO” icon
becomes dimmed and 3G changes to read 2G.
The icon is “off” (dimmed) when no service is available.
v3 Mar.11 21
User Guide
Icon Meaning
The Roaming Status indicator shows whether you are roaming onto the network of a
service provider other than your own.
When the indicator is off (gray), you are within the local coverage area of your service
provider. When the indicator is on (solid black), you are in a “preferred” roaming area.
When the indicator is blinking, you are within the coverage area of a CDMA network
but not in a “preferred” roaming area.
Note: Your coverage area and account charges depend upon your service provider
and the type of account you have. There may be surcharges for roaming service that
vary based on whether you are in a preferred or non-preferred roaming area. If there
is no roaming agreement between your service provider and the local carrier, you
may be unable to complete calls.
The Connection Indicator icon signifies that a connection is established. The icon
flashes while you are in the process of connecting and remains static once you are
connected.
If the Connection Indicator icon is dimmed, there is no connection, nor is a connection
attempt in progress.
Service status area and counters
Figure 4-5: Full Mode view - service status and counters
The Service Status Dialog area displays messages related to the
status or progress of a connection.
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Watcher™ Basics
Service status dialog
Table 4-2: Service Status Dialog and Associated Icon
Service Status Dialog Description Associated System Tray
Icon
Please Insert Card No card is detected
Card is Off AirCard 580 is powered off
Ready Service is available
No Service No service is available
Connecting Attempting to make a connection
Connected 1xEV-DO
or
Connected 1xRTT
Dormant / Connected A connection is established but no
Disconnecting Disconnecting the current call
Call Lost Call is dropped; transient state
Card is Locked The modem security feature has
A connection is established
(1xEV-DO or 1xRTT - active or
dormant)
data transfer is in progress
returning to Ready
been enabled
Connection timer
The connection timer displays the duration of the current data
call and begins as soon as a connection is established. The time
format is 00hrs: 00min: 00sec.
Byte counter
The byte counter displays the amount of data transmitted and
received during a session as soon as a connection is established. The measurements are listed in kilobytes and
megabytes.
For 0-999 kilobytes, the format is displayed as:
“ XXX kB” (i.e. 7 kb, 68 kB, or 768 kB).
For 1 megabyte and up, the format is displayed as:
“ XXX.X MB” (i.e. 1.0 MB, 3.2 MB, or 132.3 MB).
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User Guide
Action buttons
The action buttons allow you to customize Watcher and
monitor your connections.
Connect / disconnect
When a connection has not been made, the action button reads
Connect. To initiate a connection, click Connect. Once a
connection is established, the button changes to read
Disconnect. Select Disconnect to terminate your session.
System tray shortcut
Note: Clicking on the System Tray shortcut does not close the Watcher application.
Tip: In order to change the default settings on any of the options, simply place or remove a check mark in the designated check box for each option. You may do so by clicking the mouse on the check box.
When viewing Watcher in Full Mode, you have the option to
ʺminimizeʺ the Full Mode window and monitor your
connection status from the System Tray Mode view. The icon
located in the system tray communicates your connection
status similarly to the service status dialog in Full Mode. By
clicking on the system tray icon, you are activating the System
Tray Mode.
Tip: Once you are in System Tray Mode, you may easily return to the
Full Mode view. Simply click the system tray icon and select Open
from the menu.
Settings
The settings tool allows you to customize Watcher. Once you
click this button, a window with two tabs appears:
About.
General and
General tab
You are able to customize options and alert settings by
accessing the general tab. An explanation of options and alerts
is outlined on the following page.
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Watcher™ Basics
Table 4-3: Settings Menu - General Tab Options
Option Choices Description
Start in System Tray
Mode
Run AirCard 580
Watcher at Startup
Enable Auto-Connect On
Call Lost Alert On (default)
Card Eject Warning On (default)
Premium Service
Alert
Tray Mode Alert On (default)
On
Off (default to Full
Mode at launch)
On (default)
Off
Off (Default)
Off
Off
On (default)
Off
Off
When this option is enabled, Watcher will launch
from the system tray. (See System Tray Mode on
page 26).This feature is turned off by default (it is
unchecked) and Watcher launches in Full Mode.
(See Full Mode on page 20).
When this option is enabled, Watcher automatically
launches when your notebook PC is powered on.
Turning this feature “off” disables autolaunch and
Watcher may only be opened through the desktop
shortcut or from the start menu (See page 17 in this
chapter “Launching Watcher”).
When this option is enabled, Watcher automatically
establishes a connection at startup, and
reestablishes a connection if the connection is
dropped. If you prefer to manually establish a
connection, turn the feature off (default).
When enabled, a pop-up window and warning sound
notify you when a connection is dropped.
When enabled, a message regarding proper card
removal is displayed when you exit Watcher.
When enabled, a notification appears each time an a
connection attempt the high-speed 3G CDMA
1xEVDO BroadbandAccess network is made.
When enabled, you are prompted to indicate
whether you want to close Watcher or minimize
Watcher when you select the system tray shortcut
action button.
System Select Automatic
Automatic A
Automatic B
Home Only
The System Select menu displays the current
selection when the Settings tool is launched while
the modem is connected and powered on. If the
modem is not connected or powered on, the menu
will be grayed out. These settings cannot be
changed during an active data call.
Note: Do not change the default System Select
option, unless instructed to do so by a Verizon
Wireless Customer Service Representative
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User Guide
Option Choices Description
Security Lock On
Off (default)
Run Activation
Wizard
For security purposes, you have the option to lock
the AirCard 580 when not in use. Place a
checkmark in the check box entitled, “Lock Card” to
enable this feature. By enabling this feature, the
AirCard 580 locks, disabling any connection
attempts, even if Watcher is set to "Auto Connect".
Each time you use the AirCard 580, you are asked
to enter a four-digit passcode.
The default lock code is the last four digits of your
Directory Number. To change your code, select
“Change Lock Code” and follow the on-screen
instructions.
Tip: Access the About tab to locate your Directory
Number or contact Verizon Wireless Customer
Service.
-- You may manually launch the Activation Wizard from
the general tab. Select “Run Activation Wizard” and
follow the on-screen instructions.
About tab
The About Tab lists useful information about your device and
provides direct access to a digital help file.
Call log
Tip: You are able to sort/ organize the view (ascending and descending by any of the above columns).
Column Header Format Descriptions
Call Type 3G
2G
Phone Number 15 digits Destination data phone number, if available.
Date and Time YYYY MMM DD
hh:mm am (or pm)
Duration hh:mm:ss OR mm:ss Duration of the data call.
The call log lists a summary of all data calls made. A window
appears displaying the following options:
Table 4-4: Call Log Column Descriptions
Indicates the type of call initiated. Click on the
column header to sort by “Call Type”.
Date and time when the data call was made.
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Watcher™ Basics
Column Header Format Descriptions
Bytes In Examples: 7 KB, 68 KB, 768 KB,
3.2 MB, 343.3 MB, 1.3GB
Bytes Out Examples: 7 KB, 68 KB, 768 KB,
3.2 MB, 343.3 MB, 1.3GB.
Indicates the total amount of data received
during a session.
Indicates the total amount of data transmitted
during a session.
To reset the counter (and begin counting from 0):
1. Select
Reset.
2. Select Yes to confirm that you want to delete the entries.
The
Last Reset Time is then updated with the current date
and time.
Help
The
Help button provides access to Watcher Help, a digital help
guide. Click
appears. Select
Help and the About Tab in the Settings menu
AirCard 580 Watcher Help and Help opens in a
separate window. (See “Action Buttons: Settings - About Tab”
on page 26).
System Tray Mode
Figure 4-6: System tray area If you prefer to minimize the Full Mode view of Watcher, you
can still monitor your connections with the System Tray Icon.
system tray: a section of the task bar in Windows which
displays the clock and icons of certain programs. Sometimes
referred to as the notification or status area.
System Tray Icon
Watcher launches in Full Mode view by default. Once the
program launches, an icon appears simultaneously in the
system tray on your desktop. This icon changes colors
according to the current status of your connection. By moving
the mouse pointer over the icon, ToolTips appear explaining
the current status of Watcher. Once you exit Watcher, the
system tray icon disappears.
ToolT ip : Pop-up text box that displays information about a
particular application. These text boxes may be viewed when
the mouse pointer is placed on the particular icon.
v3 Mar.11 27
User Guide
Table 4-5: System Tray Icon meanings
Icon Description ToolTip
Ready - Watcher is ready to make a connection AirCard 580 Watcher:
Ready
Connecting - Icon flashes as it attempts to make a
connection
Connected - Connection is established and data
transfer is in progress
Dormant / Connected - Icon color is yellow,
signifying that the connection is established, but idle
(no data transmission is occurring)
No Service - Icon color is red; card has no service AirCard 580 Watcher:
Off - Icon color is gray, signifying that the power to
the card is off
No Card is Detected - Icon color is gray AirCard 580 Watcher:
Modem Locked - Icon color is gray; security lock is
enabled
Note: When you select “Exit”
from the system tray menu, you
are “exiting” the Watcher
program/application. Clicking on
the system tray shortcut action
button while in Full Mode does
not close and exit Watcher; it
only minimizes Watcher from
Full Mode view. Remember: the
Watcher system tray icon is only
visible while Watcher is running.
AirCard 580 Watcher:
Connecting
AirCard 580 Watcher:
Connected
AirCard 580 Watcher:
Dormant/Connected
No Service
AirCard 580 Watcher:
Card is Off
Please Insert Card
AirCard 580 Watcher:
Card is Locked
System tray menu
Click the system tray icon to display a menu with these
options:
Table 4-6: System Tray menu options
Menu Item Action
Open Maximizes Watcher to Full Mode
view.
Connect or Disconnect Select to Connect or Disconnect a
data call session.
Power On Card or
Power Off Card
Settings Open the Settings window.
Select to Power On or Off the
AirCard 580.
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Watcher™ Basics
Menu Item Action
Help Open the About tab in the Settings
window. The About tab displays a
direct link to the digital Watcher Help
guide.
Exit Close the Watcher application. Once
you have exited Watcher, the
System Tray Icon disappears.
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5: Alert Windows
5
• Understanding alert
windows
Understanding alert windows
Alerts are windows generated by Watcher in response to your
selections. Close an alert window by selecting
You also have the option to “turn off” an alert so that it never
appears again either from the alert window itself, or by
manually shutting it off. To manually shut off an alert, access
Settings menu in Full Mode view or click the System Tray
the
Icon in the system tray of your notebook PC to access the
shortcut menu. (See Chapter 4, pages 20-26).
Following are different alerts that may appear during use:
3G service alert
If 3G service is currently unavailable at your location, an alert
appears explaining that you need to try to reconnect again.
Auto-connect alert
Watcher includes a convenient auto-connect feature. When a
call is lost due to poor signal strength, Watcher automatically
attempts to reconnect to the Verizon Wireless network. The
auto-connect alert appears whenever this instance occurs.
Yes, No, or OK.
Auto-connection failure alert
The auto-connect feature attempts to reconnect to the Verizon
Wireless network if a call has been lost. If, after three times, the
auto-connect feature is unsuccessful, the auto-connection
failure alert appears. Click
attempts.
Yes to resume auto-connection
Call lost alert
A visual and audible alert occurs whenever a connection has
been inadvertently lost, due to poor signal strength or being
outside a local coverage area. Select
notice and close the window.
OK to acknowledge the
Card eject warning
This warning appears when you exit Watcher. Follow the
instructions displayed for proper removal of the AirCard 580.
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User Guide
WARNING: Removing theAirCard 580 improperly may damage your
notebook PC. See page 12 for complete instructions on proper
removal of the AirCard 580 from your notebook PC.
Connection in progress alert
A “Connection in Progress” or “Connection is still Active” alert
occurs if you attempt to your select
AirCard 580 from the system tray shortcut menu prior to
terminating your connection.
When a connection is in progress, you cannot exit or power off
the AirCard 580 without first terminating the connection.
Disconnect from Full Mode view or the system tray icon
Select
shortcut menu.
Click
No to dismiss the alert message and keep Watcher power
on and the connection active.
Exit or Power Off the
Power on card alert
If the AirCard 580 has been “powered off,” an attempt to
connect by clicking the
alert to appear. Click
on the AirCard 580.
Note: You must turn the AirCard 580 power on before making a
connection. Access the shortcut menu by clicking the system tray icon
and selecting “Power On Card”.
Connect or Settings buttons causes this
Yes to close the alert window and power
Premium service alert
When attempting to connect to the Verizon Wireless
NationalAccess/BroadbandAccessSM networks, a pop-up
window appears advising you of your connection choice.
Reset call log confirmation
When you reset the Call Log, a confirmation message appears.
Yes to confirm the deletion of the current entries and to
Select
reset the
Last Reset Time to the current time.
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Alert Windows
Security lock enabled alert
A connection cannot be made while the security lock feature is
enabled. If a connection attempt is made while the security
lock is on, an alert appears explaining that the card is locked.
You may disable the feature from the
Settings menu.
Security enter lock code
For security purposes, you have the option to lock the
AirCard 580 when not in use. Each time you use the
AirCard 580, you will be asked for a four-digit passcode. The
default lock code is the last four digits of your Directory
number. Access the About tab from the Settings menu or
contact Verizon Wireless Customer Service if you cannot
remember your Directory number. You may change your lock
code by accessing the
Settings menu.
Security incorrect lock code
An alert appears if the security lock code entered is incorrect.
OK to dismiss the dialog and re-enter the correct lock
Click
code.
Software mismatch alert
This alert appears if the Watcher software version you are
installing is older than the modem software. Click
dismiss the dialog.
OK to
Note: You may continue to use the AirCard 580 after closing the alert
window, even with the software mismatch. Please contact your
service provider to check when the latest software upgrades are
available.
Tray mode alert
In order to run Watcher System Tray Mode rather than Full
Mode, you must click the System Tray Icon. When this action
occurs, an alert appears explaining that you have switched
modes. In order to turn off the alert in the future, place a check
mark in the check box next to “
future.
”
v3 Mar.11 33
Do not show this Alert in the
User Guide
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User Guide
6: Troubleshooting Tips
The Watcher Help file includes descriptions of most common
error messages and troubleshooting tips, including answers to
frequently asked questions. Look in the table of contents under
Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting.
For help with other problems:
• Consult the Sierra Wireless website at
www.sierrawireless.com. There is a troubleshooting wizard
and an extensive knowledge base that can be searched to
address most problems.
• Contact Verizon Wireless Customer Service at:
JOIN-IN
My AirCard 580 becomes noticeably hot after using it for a while, is this normal?
Like all wireless network cards, the AirCard 580 generates heat
in its normal operation and is also heated by the host
computer. For this reason it is recommended that you allow
the AirCard 580 to cool down after extensive operation so that
it may become cool to the touch before you remove it from
your notebook PC.
.
6
1-800-2-
How do I log in to my Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
Once you establish a connection to the Internet with the
AirCard 580 and Watcher, open the VPN application and sign
in as you normally do.
How do I un-install Watcher?
Before you attempt to un-install the software, ensure that you
have powered off the card and exited Watcher.
1. Access the Add/Remove Programs utility in the Control
Panel.
Start > Settings > Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs
2. Select Sierra Wireless AirCard® 580 Watcher to un-install
and click
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Change/Remove.
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User Guide
(For further information on specific operating systems, consult
Windows® Help (
Start > Help).
A “Location Information” window has popped up asking for dialing information. Do I need to put any information in this window?
Windows 98 SE & Windows Me ONLY: During Watcher
software loading, if the computer has never had any modem
configuration performed, the
Location Information screen may
pop up. This window has nothing to do with Watcher
software. Windows just thinks a modem is being loaded and is
asking for dialing information. Simply put in the area code of
the computer’s location. The remaining requested information
can be left blank or dummy information can be put in. Information in this window will not affect the AirCard 580. After
entering the information click
Close. (This only applies if the
computer also uses a dialup modem).
I use Windows 98 SE and I've noticed that my computer is performing slower than usual, why?
On the second attempt by Windows 98 SE to go into Standby
Mode, the system may become sluggish and unusable. The
computer must be rebooted at this point in order to recover
and restore normal operating speed.
It is recommended to inhibit Standby Mode by selecting
Standby “Never” option under the ‘Power Manager’ menu options
in the Control Panel. It is also recommended not to use
>Shutdown > Standby
.
Start
What do I do with the message window: “The feature you are trying to use is on a CD-ROM or other removable disk that is not available. Insert the 'Watcher' Disk and click OK”?
If Watcher is being loaded on a computer that has a fresh
Windows 2000 operating system load and has not had any
other software loaded to this point, you may see the following
message: “The feature you are trying to use is on a CD-ROM or
other removable disk that is not available. Insert the ʹ Wat cher ʹ
Disk and click OK”. Dismiss the message by clicking
Cancel.
This is a one time event and should not happen again.
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Troubleshooting Tips
Why won’t my laptop hibernate or go into standby since I loaded Watcher software?
Due to power control issues with Windows 2000 SP2 (Service
Pack 2) and earlier regarding USB device management, a
standby / hibernate blocker has been written into Watcher
software. If the laptop is upgraded to Windows 2000 SP3, the
software will see this and restore the standby and hibernate
functionality.
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7: Technical Specifications
• LED operation
• Radio frequency and
electrical
specifications
• Environmental
specifications
This chapter describes the function of the LED, and provides
technical product data for the AirCard 580 wireless modem.
LED operation
The AirCard 580 has a single red/green LED on the antenna
end of the card. The LED operates as follows:
Table 7-1: LED operation
LED Behavior Indicates
Slow flashing
green
Fast flashing
green
Blinking red There is no signal.
A signal has been acquired.
The AirCard has established a connection
and is transferring data.
7
Solid red An error has occured.
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Radio frequency and electrical
specifications
Table 7-2: Radio frequency and electrical specifications
Approvals Compliant with:
IS-95A, IS-96B, IS2000,
Release 1.0 (CDMA 1XRTT)
IS-707-A Data, IS-856 (CDMA 1xEV-DO)
IS-866, IS-878, IS-890
CDMA Developers Group
FCC (ID: PNF-PC3220P)
Voltag e +3.3Vdc from PCMCIA slot
Current Maximum: 950 mA
Transmitter
Power
Transmit PCS: 1805 to 1870 MHz
Receive PCS: 1715 to 1780 MHz
Channel Spacing 1.25 MHz
Freq. Stability ±150 Hz
Typical: 370 mA (1xRTT)
470 mA (1xEV-DO)
200 mW (+23 dBm)
Cellular: 824 to 849 MHz
Cellular: 868 to 894 MHz
Environmental specifications
Table 7-3: Environmental specifications
Operating Temp. -20 to +60°C (ambient, outside PCMCIA
enclosure)
Storage Temp. -30 to +65°C
Humidity 95%, non-condensing
Vibration 15 g peak 10 to 2000 Hz (non-operating)
Drop 30” (76.2 cm) on to vinyl covered concrete
40 2130374
8: Regulatory and Safety Information
• Regulatory notices
• Safety hazards United States of America
FCC
This Section outlines important regulatory notices concerning
your new AirCard.
Regulatory Notices
This device complies with Parts 15, 22, and 24 of the FCC rules.
This PC card has been tested with the typical laptop computer
with the side loading PCMCIA bay. This PC card must not be
co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna
or transmitter. Use of this device in any other configuration
may exceed the FCC RF Exposure compliance limit. Operation
of this device is subject to the following two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference, and
• This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesirable operations.
8
Sierra Wireless stipulates that the antenna should be more than
1.5 cm (0.60”) from by-standers and 1.0 cm (0.39”) from the
user. When in use, the antenna should be fully extended
upward at a 90-degree angle.
FCC ID: PNF-PC3220P
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CAUTION: Unauthorized modification or changes not expressly
approved could void compliance with RF exposure guidelines.
WARNING: This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits pursuant to Part 15, 22, and 24 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in an appropriate installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communication. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help
WARNING: This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B
limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out
in the interference causing equipment standard entitled “Digital
Apparatus,” ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.
WARNING: Cet appareil numerique respecte les limites de bruits
radioelectriques applicables aux appareils numeriques de Classe B
prescrites dans la norme sur le materiel brouilleur. “Appareils Numeriques,” NMB-003 edictee par le ministre de Communications.
If you have purchased this product under a United States
Government contract, it shall be subject to restrictions as set
forth in subparagraph (C)(1)(ii) of Defense Federal Acquisitions Regulations (DFARs) Section 252.227-7013 for
Department of Defense contracts, and as set forth in Federal
Acquisitions Regulations (FARs) Section 52.227-19 for civilian
agency contracts or any successor regulations. If further
government regulations apply, it is your responsibility to
ensure compliance with such regulations.
42 2130374
Regulatory and Safety Information
Safety Information
This section outlines important liability and safety guidelines
concerning your new PC Card.
Important Notice
Because of the nature of wireless communications, transmission and reception of data can never be guaranteed. Data
may be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors) or totally be lost.
Although significant delays or losses of data are rare when
wireless devices such as the PC Card-Model AirCard 580
CDMA modem are used in a normal manner with a well
constructed network, they should not be used in situations
where failure to transmit or receive data could result in
damage of any kind to the user or another party, including but
not limited to personal injury, death or loss of personal
property. No responsibility for damages of any kind resulting
from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using the
PC Card-Model AirCard 580 CDMA modem, or for failure of
the PC Card-Model AirCard 580 to transmit or receive such
data.
Safety and Hazards
Blasting Areas and Hospitals
Do not operate the Sierra Wireless AirCard® 580 wireless
modem in areas where blasting is in progress, where explosive
atmospheres may be present, near medical equipment, life
support equipment, or any equipment which may be susceptible to any form of radio interference. In such areas the Sierra
Wireless AirCard® 580 wireless modem MUST BE POWERED
OFF. It can transmit signals that could interfere with this
equipment.
Aircraft
Do not operate the Sierra Wireless AirCard® 580 wireless
modem in any aircraft whether the aircraft is on the ground or
in flight. In aircraft, the Sierra Wireless AirCard® 580 wireless
modem MUST BE POWERED OFF. When operating it can
transmit signals that could interfere with various onboard
systems.
Driving
The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the
Sierra Wireless AirCard® 580 wireless modem while in control
of a vehicle. Doing so will detract from the driver or operator’s
control and operation of that vehicle. In some jurisdictions,
operating such communications devices while in control of a
vehicle is an offense.
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44 2130374
Appendix A: Glossary
1xEV-DO Evolution Data Optimized -- An evolution of cdma2000® 1x
technology and is an 3G standard. 1xEV-DO provides peak
data rates of up to 2.4 Mbps. Also known as high data rate, or
HDR, providing high-speed, high-capacity wireless Internet
connectivity, and is optimized for packet data services. EV-DO
only addresses data - not voice. It requires a dedicated slice of
spectrum, separate from voice networks using standards such
as 1xRTT.
1xRTT One Times Radio Transmission Technology (the ʺone timesʺ
refers to the frequency spectrum), a 3G standard technology
that supports speeds up to 144 kbps.
2G Second generation - 2G data transfer uses as much network
capacity as any other call, and uses that capacity for the
duration of the connection, regardless of whether data is being
transmitted at any one moment. In contrast, the newer 3G
standard is much faster for data, and only uses network
capacity when data is actively being transmitted
3G Third generation—A new generation of wireless systems,
including cdma2000 1xRTT and 1xEV-DO, that provides highspeed data transmission (144 kbps and higher) and Internet
Protocol (IP) based services in fixed, portable and mobile
environments.
A
.
bps bits per second—The actual data speed over the transmission
medium. See also baud.
carrier A wireless network service provider, licensed to use radio
frequencies in particular regions.
CDG CDMA Development Group. Consult
series of three test suites required to certify a device for use on
a CDMA network.
CDMA Code Division Multiple Access—A wideband spread
spectrum technique used in digital cellular, personal communications services, and other wireless networks. Wide
channels (1.25 MHz) are obtained through spread spectrum
transmissions, thus allowing many active users to share the
same channel. Each user is assigned a unique digital code,
which differentiates the individual conversations on the same
channel.
CDMA2000 1X Also known as 1xRTT, this is a high-speed standard for CDMA
cellular communications.
www.cdg.org. Also a
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CnS Control and Status—A proprietary protocol for managing
Sierra Wireless devices.
COM The serial communications port of a computer.
directory number See MIN
DNS Domain Name Server—Internet server that supplies the
mapping of domain names to IP addresses.
dormancy The packet data connection has the logical PPP session left
open while the underlying physical link (the radio channel) is
released. When traffic is to resume, a radio channel is reaquired and the original PPP session resumes.
DSRDUN Dial-Up Networking—A Windows
computer to a server via the telephone network.
E911 Emergency call mode.
ERP Effective Radiated Power—A measure of the RF energy
radiated from an antenna.
ESD Electro-Static Discharge
ESN Electronic Serial Number—The unique serial number
assigned to the modem for cellular network use.
®
protocol for connecting a
FCC Federal Communications Commission—The U.S. federal
agency that is responsible for interstate and foreign communications. The FCC regulates commercial and private radio
spectrum management, sets rates for communications services,
determines standards for equipment, and controls broadcast
licensing. Consult
www.fcc.gov.
FER Frame Error Rate - Ratio of data transmitted with errors, to
total data transmitted. Used to determine the quality of a
signal. If the FER is too high, (too many errors,) the connection
may be dropped.
firmware Software stored in ROM or EEPROM; essential programs that
remain even when the system is turned off. Firmware is easier
to change than hardware but more permanent than software
stored on disk.
FSN Factory Serial Number—A tracking number applied by and
for the manufacturer, distinct from the ESN.
GUI Graphical User Interface- Elements of a GUI include such
things as: windows, pull-down menus, buttons, scroll bars,
iconic images, wizards, the mouse, and no doubt many things
that havenʹt been invented yet.
host 1. A computer that uses a modem or a similar device to
answer a calling computer.
2. A source or destination in the communication network.
46 2130374
Glossary
3. A computer that contains data or files to be accessed by
client computers. Also known as a server.
HTTP Hypertext Transfer Protocol - A set of rules for transferring
files (text, graphic images, sound, video, and other multimedia
files) on the World Wide Web.
IC 1. Industry Canada
2. Integrated Circuit
IMSI International Mobile Station Identity
Internet address A 32-bit source or destination address that is given an IP
number and is assigned to hosts using IP.
IOTA Internet Over-The-Air—A mechanism to activate an account
over the wireless network using standard Internet (http)
protocols.
IP Internet Protocol—The basic Internet transport mechanism.
In CDPD it operates above the MDLP layer. Also, an OSI layer
3 network layer protocol.
IP address A unique address on the Internet. Each modem must have
one, to operate on a packet network. The IP address is a
unique number consisting of four parts separated by dots. See
also DNS.
IS Interim Standard—After receiving industry consensus, the
TIA forwards the standard to ANSI for approval.
IS-95 The standard for CDMA.
ISO International Standards Organization—A standards setting
group. Consult
ITU International Telecommunications Union. Consult
www.iso.ch.
www.itu.int.
kbps kilobits per second—Actually 1000, not 1024, as used in
computer memory size measurements of kilobytes.
MHz Mega-Hertz—One million cycles per second.
MIN Mobile Identification Number—A number that identifies a
specific mobile unit within a wireless carrier’s network.
mobile IP A software method of managing IP addresses through mobile
and home “agents” such that a mobile normally assigned
dynamic IP addresses (during handoffs by each network
serving station) can appear to keep a static IP address for the
duration of a session. See also Simple IP.
MSL Master Subsidy Lock—A password that allows a user to
configure parameters that are normally not accessible. See also
OTSL.
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OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer—A company that
manufactures a product and sells it to a reseller.
originate The origin of a connection or message. Mobile originated
means the connection of message starts from the mobile and
goes to the network for termination at the destination.
Contrast with terminate.
packet A short fixed-length block of data including a header that is
transmitted as a unit in a communications network.
PC Card™ Add-in memory and communications cards for portable
computers. PC Card is a trademark of the Personal Computer
Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA).
PCMCIA Personal Computer Memory Card International Associ-
ation—The organization that standardizes PC Cards.
PCS Personal Communications Services—A cellular communi-
cation infrastructure that uses a different frequency range than
AMPS.
PRI Product Release Instructions
PRL Preferred Roaming List. See also roaming.
protocol A defined procedure for determining the proper way of
exchanging information on a network.
terminate The destination of a connection or message. Mobile termi-
nated means the connection of message arrived at the mobile
from the network. Contrast with originate.
reverse channel A connection channel for moving data from the mobile to the
network. Contrast with Forward Channel.
RF Radio Frequency
roaming A cellular subscriber is in an area where service is obtained
from a cellular service provider that is not the subscriber’s
provider.
SAR Specific Absorption Rate—A test metric for RF exposure.
simple IP The standard method of allocating IP addresses to mobile units
as they register with network serving stations (handoff). This
is typically a dynamic IP addressing mechanism managed
through DHCP. See also Mobile IP.
SMS Short message services—A feature that allows users of a
wireless device on a wireless network to receive or transmit
short electronic alphanumeric messages (up to 160 characters,
depending on the service provider).
TCP Transmission Control Protocol—The common underlying
communication protocol used on the Internet. A connection
handshake establishes a point to point logical connection. In
48 2130374
Glossary
contrast to UDP, TCP ensures both ends of the connection are
present and active on the network. TCP ensures delivery of
datagrams.
TIA Telecommunications Industry Association—A standards
setting trade organization, whose members provide communications and information technology products, systems, distribution services and professional services in the United States
and around the world. Consult
WAN Wide Area Network—A computer network that uses high-
speed packet switched lines to serve a large geographic area.
Contrast with LAN.
Watcher™ A suite of programs that run on a Windows-based computer.
This program allows the user to configure the Sierra Wireless
modem for communications, and monitor various modem
parameters. It is not compatible with other vendors’ modems.
WWAN Wireless Wide Area Network— A wireless computer data
network that may extend over a large geographical area.
WWW World Wide We b—An Internet-based, hypertext, graphical
network created by CERN researchers in Switzerland. For
more information about CERN, visit their site at
www.tiaonline.org.
www.w3.org.
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50 2130374
Index
A
account, 7, 14
See also activation
action buttons, 24
See also
settings
call log
help
connect
disconnect
activation, 4, 7-9, 14, 26
Activation Code, 14
Activation Wizard, 14, 26
administrative privileges, 10
aircraft, using the AirCard in, (i), 43
alerts, 31
3G service, 31
auto-connect, 31
auto-connection failure, 31
call lost, 31
card eject, 31
connection in progress, 32
power on card, 32
reset call log, 32
security lock enabled, 32
security enter lock code, 33
security incorrect lock code, 33
software mismatch, 33
tray mode, 33
See also Settings, 24-25
antenna, 5, 13, 39, 41,
approvals, 40
auto-connect, 25, 29
See alerts
B
BroadbandAccess, 2
buttons
See action buttons
byte counter, 23
C
card locked, 25, 27, 33
call log, 26
call lost, 31
card eject, 25, 31
care and maintenance, 5
CD contents, 1
CDMA, 2
1xEV-DO, 2
1xRTT, 2
2G, 21
3G, 2, 21, 31
indicator
See Service Indicator
close Watcher, 24, 25, 28
See also exit Watcher
connect, 19
connection indicator, 22
D
destination location, 10
dial-up, 10
Directory Number, 26, 33, 47
disconnect, 19
dormant, 23, 27
driver, 12-13
E
ejecting the AirCard, 12
electrical specifications, 40
EMI warning, 42
environmental specifications, 40
ESN, 15
exit Watcher, 17
F
FCC ID, 41
FCC RF exposure information, 40
frequencies
receive, 40
transmit, 40
Full Mode view, 17, 20
H
hazards, 41
help, 26, 27
humidity, 40
I
icons
See system tray icon; system tray mode
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indicator area, 20-22
indicators
connection indicator, 22
roaming indicator, 22
service indicator, 21
signal strength indicator, 21
inserting the AirCard 580, 12, 41
installation
software (Watcher), 10
driver, 12
interface
See views; Full Mode view; system tray view
L
lock
See security lock
M
minimize
See system tray shortcut
MIN (Mobile Identification Number), 47
See also Directory Number
N
NationalAccess, 2
P
passcode, 25, 33
PC Card slot, 9, 12-13
R
removing the card, 12
roaming, 4, 25
indicator, 22
S
security lock, 23, 25, 27, 30-31
service status dialog, 22-23
settings, 24
signal strength, 21
system requirements, 9
System Tray Mode, 24, 26, 31
system tray icon, 11, 23, 27
system tray menu, 28
system tray shortcut, 18, 20, 24
T
troubleshooting, 33
W
O
operating limit, 40
Watcher, 3, 17
52 2130374
Index
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54 2130374
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