Sierra Wireless 555 User Manual

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AirCard® 555 Wireless Network Card

User Guide

2130142

Rev 3.0

Preface

Important Notice Because of the nature of wireless communications, trans-

mission 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 network card are used in a normal manner with a well-constructed network, the Sierra Wireless network card 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, Inc. accepts no responsibility for damages of any kind resulting from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using the Sierra Wireless network card, or for failure of the Sierra Wireless network card to transmit or receive such data.

Safety and Hazards Do not operate the Sierra Wireless AirCard

network card 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 network card MUST BE POWERED OFF. The Sierra Wireless network card can transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment.

Do not operate the Sierra Wireless network card in any aircraft, whether the aircraft is on the ground or in flight. In aircraft, the Sierra Wireless network card MUST BE POWERED OFF. When operating, the Sierra Wireless network card 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 network cards may be used at this time.

The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the Sierra Wireless network card while in control of a vehicle. Doing so will detract from the driver or operator's control and operation of that vehicle. In some states and provinces, operating such communications devices while in control of a vehicle is an offence.

555 wireless

Limitation of Liability

Rev. 3.0 Dec.01 3

The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Sierra Wireless, Inc. SIERRA WIRELESS, INC. SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, GENERAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSE-

AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Patents Portions of this product are covered by some or all of the

QUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUE OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS OR REVENUE ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE ANY SIERRA WIRELESS, INC. PRODUCT, EVEN IF SIERRA WIRELESS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR THEY ARE FORESEEABLE OR FOR CLAIMS BY ANY THIRD PARTY.

following US patents: 5515013, 5617106, 5629960, 5682602, 5748449, 5845216, 5847553, 5878234, 5890057, 5929815, 6169884, 6191741, 6199168, D367062, D372248, D372701, D416857, D442170 and other patents pending.

Licensed by QUALCOMM Incorporated under one or more of the following United States Patents and/or their counterparts in other nations: 4901307 5490165 5056109 5504773 5101501 5506865 5109390 5511073 5228054 5535239 5267261 5544196 5267262 5568483 5337338 5600754 5414796 5657420 5416797 5659569 5710784 5778338

Trademarks Sierra Wireless and the Red Swoosh design are trademarks of

Sierra Wireless, Inc. Heart of the Wireless Machine AirCard Quick 2 Net nications. Other trademarks are the property of the respective owners. All product specifications are subject to change without notice.

are registered trademarks of Sierra Wireless, Inc.

is a service mark of Verizon Wireless Commu-

and

Comments Your comments and suggestions on improving this documen-

tation are welcome and appreciated. Please e-mail your feedback to

Consult our web site for up-to-date product descriptions, documentation, application notes, firmware upgrades, troubleshooting tips, and press releases:

documentation@sierrawireless.com. Thank you.

www.sierrawireless.com

4 2130142

Preface

Technical Support For technical support of this product, contact Verizon Wireless

at 1-800-922-0204.

Rev. 3.0 Dec.01 5

AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

6 2130142

Table of Contents

Introducing the AirCard® 555 Network Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

A Network Card, a Modem, and a Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Package Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

About This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

The AirCard 555 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Account Activation and Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Care and Maintenance of Your AirCard 555 Wireless Network Card . . . . . . 21

Installation and Use on Notebook PCs

Installation on Notebook PCs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

AirCard Software Installation Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Windows 95 Pre-Installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Installation Procedures for Windows 95, 98, Me, and 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Installation Procedures for Windows XP & NT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Venturi Software Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Card Insertion and Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Inserting the AirCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Removing the AirCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Account Configuration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

The Watcher Window and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Components of the Watcher Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

The Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

The Minimize, Toggle Full/Compact, and Close Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Connection Status Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

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AirCard 555 Wireless Network Card User Guide

Call Status Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Indicator Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Taskbar Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Data Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Dial-Up Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Incoming Data Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Quick 2 Net Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Express Network Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Voice Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

The Dial Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

The Scratch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Outgoing Calls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Incoming Calls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

The Watcher Menu Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

The View Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Always On Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Toggle Full/Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

The Tools Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Mobile Messenger… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Phone Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Call Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Dial-Up Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

KeyGuard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Activation Wizard… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Options… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

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Table of Contents

The Help Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Help Topics… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

About Watcher… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

The Network Adapter Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Windows 95, 98, NT and Me. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Switching Primary Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Windows 2000 and XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

On-Line Help and Version Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Closing the Network Adapter Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Problem Causes and Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Reinstalling the AirCard Driver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Windows 95/98 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Windows 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Windows Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Windows XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Resolving Resource Conflicts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Windows 95/98 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Windows 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Windows Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Windows XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Installation and Use on Handheld and Pocket PCs

Installation on Handheld and Pocket PCs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Software Installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

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AirCard 555 Wireless Network Card User Guide

Card Insertion and Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Inserting the AirCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Removing the AirCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Account Configuration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

The Watcher Window and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Components of the Watcher Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

The Menu Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Connection Status Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Call Status Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Indicator Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

The Minimize, Toggle Full/Compact, and Close Boxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Taskbar Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Data Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Dial-Up Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Incoming Data Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Quick 2 Net Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Express Network Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Voice Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

The Dial Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

The Scratch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Outgoing Calls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Incoming Calls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

The Watcher Menu Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

The View Menu (Handheld PCs). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Always On Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

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Table of Contents

Toggle Full/Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

The Tools Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Mobile Messenger… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Phone Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Call Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Dial-Up Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

KeyGuard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Activation Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Options… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

The Admin Menu (Pocket PCs). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

About Watcher… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Administration > Activation Wizard… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

The Help Menu (Handhelds PC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

Help Topics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

About Watcher … . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Problem Causes and Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Uninstalling the AirCard Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

LED Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

Radio Frequency and Electrical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Regulatory Information

Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Index

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

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AirCard 555 Wireless Network Card User Guide

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AirCard 555 Basics

1: Introducing the AirCard® 555

Network Card

• A Network Card, a Modem, and a Phone

• Package Contents

• About this Guide

The AirCard® 555 wireless network card fits into a standard Type II PC card slot (available on most notebook PCs) and functions as a wireless network card, a modem, and a mobile phone. This card allows you to connect to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, connect to a corporate network, and make phone calls, without the need of a network cable or phone line.

Basics

AirCard 555

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 (notebook PCs) or Chapter 10 (Handheld and Pocket PCs) for detailed procedures.

Note: The Venturi compression software that allows for dial-up data transmission speeds of 56 kbps is available for notebook PCs running Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, and Me only.

The AirCard 555 functions in notebook PCs with these Windows® operating systems: 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, and XP. The AirCard 555 also functions in Handheld and Pocket PCs with the Windows CE 3.0 operating system.

The AirCard 555 operates over a type of wireless network called CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). This network technology has many features beyond providing a wireless link, including:

• SMS (Short Messaging Service), which allows you to

send and receive short messages using the AirCard

• Quick 2 Net, which provides a direct Internet connection

Use of the AirCard 555 requires that you have an account that gives you access to a CDMA network.

Every CDMA network operates on one of three radio frequency bands. As a dual band product, the AirCard 555 operates on two of these bands, providing a wide coverage area.

The AirCard operates on the original CDMA network (IS 95A) that provides data transmission speeds of up to 14.4 kbps (kilobits per second) or 56 kbps where Venturi compression is in use. The AirCard also runs on the newer 1xRTT network technology that provides data transmission speeds up to 144 kbps. The AirCard 555 provides all the advantages of 1xRTT where it is available while allowing you to use the older CDMA IS 95A standard where 1xRTT 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.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Note: More information about CDMA networks is available on the CDMA Development Group web site, www.cdg.org.

A Network Card, a Modem, and a Phone

On notebook PCs, during 1xRTT connections, the AirCard 555 is a true network card, functioning just like the network cards familiar to most corporate computer users. Once installed and configured, the AirCard connects instantly to the CDMA network with a few mouse clicks. You can just insert the AirCard 555, click a few buttons, launch your Internet browser, and you’re ready to web surf.

As a modem, the AirCard 555 allows you to dial up any other modem, or send and receive faxes. You can also connect a headset to the AirCard 555 and use it as a phone.

Package Contents

Your AirCard 555 package contains the following components:

• AirCard 555 wireless network card

• Antenna

• Installation CD containing the AirCard software and this

user guide

• Quick reference card

If you want to use the AirCard as a phone, a headset is necessary. See the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com, for a listing of approved headsets that will work with the AirCard.

About This Guide

This user guide is designed to provide you with all the information you need to install and use your network card.

• Section 1 (which you are reading) gives you an overview

of the AirCard 555, providing the background information that is the basis for understanding the following sections.

• Section 2 provides step-by-step instructions on installing,

configuring, and using the AirCard 555 on notebook PCs.

• Section 3 provides step-by-step instructions on installing,

configuring, and using the AirCard 555 on Handheld and Pocket PCs.

• Section 4 provides electrical, radio frequency, and other

parameters of the AirCard 555 for those who require technical information.

• Section 5 provides regulatory information.

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Installation and Use on Notebook PCs

2: Getting Started

• The AirCard 555 Software

• Account Activation and Configuration

• Care and Maintenance

Before you can begin using the AirCard 555 wireless network card, you must:

1. Install the AirCard 555 software.

2. 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 555 Software

The AirCard comes with this software:

• An application called Watcher that you use to manage the

AirCard and monitor your connections

• An application called the Network Adapter Manager that

allows you to switch between the AirCard 555 and other network cards (for notebook PCs only)

• The driver software that forms the interface between the

network card and your Windows operating system

• Venturi compression software that increases data

throughput, effectively increasing the data transmission speed (for notebook PCs only)

Basics

AirCard 555

Note: When you have the Venturi software installed and enabled, the compression will automatically be used where it is available on the network. In areas where the Venturi server is implemented, you should notice an increase in the speed of your dial-up data connections.

The Watcher software (and on notebook PCs, the Network Adapter Manager) should be installed before you insert the AirCard 555 for the first time. The Venturi software should only be installed after the driver is installed. Detailed instructions are provided in Chapter 3.

Account Activation and Configuration

Companies that operate CDMA networks and provide access to these networks are called service providers. You must have an account with a CDMA service provider to use the AirCard 555. The process of setting up an account is called activation.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

If you purchased the AirCard from a service provider, you may already have an account. (That is, your network card is pre-activated.) Otherwise, you can refer to the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com, for a list of service providers.

When selecting a service provider, it is important to consider the following:

• Coverage

Note: Most service providers have coverage maps on their web sites.

Note: The fee for service is usually higher when you are roaming (connecting to a network other than the one belonging to your service provider).

There are CDMA networks, that operate in the frequency bands supported by the AirCard 555, 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 Vancouver and travel frequently to Seattle, you can obtain an account with a Vancouver service provider that has a roaming agreement with a service provider in Seattle. You would then have local service in Vancouver, and roaming service in Seattle. (Most service providers charge more for roaming service than local service.)

Select a service provider that gives you network coverage in all areas you intend to use the AirCard 555.

• Pricing

Each service provider has its own pricing options. There are flat rate accounts which provide you a maximum number of minutes of network usage for a fixed monthly fee. There are accounts for which you are charged for network usage by the minute or by the amount of data transmitted. You may want to shop around to find the best value.

Your service provider will activate your account. To do so your service provider requires from you:

• The billing information used to collect payment for your

network usage

• The ESN (electronic serial number) assigned to your

modem during the manufacturing process. (This number is printed on a label on the AirCard and can be displayed in Watcher.)

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Chapter 2: Getting Started

Note: You can use the Lock Code feature to prevent others from using your account should your AirCard be stolen. See page 79 (notebook PCs) or page 159 (Handheld and Pocket PCs) for instructions on using this feature.

You require from your service provider:

• A phone number for your AirCard

• An activation code that gives you access to the window in

which the phone number is entered

• A SID (System Identifier) that identifies your home

network area and is used in conjunction with your phone number to identify your account when you connect to the CDMA network

Unless your AirCard has been pre-activated, Watcher will automatically detect that no account has been configured when you run it for the first time. Watcher will then run the Activation Wizard to guide you through the activation and configuration process.

Care and Maintenance of Your AirCard 555 Wireless Network Card

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 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.

Basics

AirCard 555

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

22 2130142

3: Installation on Notebook PCs

• System Requirements

• AirCard Software Installation Procedures

• Venturi Software Installation Procedures

• Card Insertion and Removal

• Account Configuration Procedures

This chapter guides you through the steps necessary to making the AirCard operational on a notebook PC. The basic steps are:

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Note: Do not insert the AirCard into your PC card slot beofre installing the software.

1. Insert the AirCard installation CD into your CD-ROM

drive and install Watcher and the Network Adapter Manager.

2. Insert the AirCard into the PC card slot and install the

AirCard driver from the CD.

3. Install the Venturi software from the AirCard installation

CD.

4. If the AirCard has not been pre-activated, use the

Activation Wizard to configure the AirCard.

Before you begin the installation process, ensure your PC is running a supported operating system and meets the hardware requirements described below.

System Requirements

The AirCard 555 wireless network card is supported on:

• Windows 95 OSR2 and higher

• Windows 98 / 98 SE

• Windows 2000 with Service Pack 1

• Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 6a

• Windows Me

• Windows XP (Home and Professional versions)

To install the AirCard, you require these system resources:

Table 3-1: System Resource Requirements

Card Slots 1 Type II PCMCIA (PC Card) Slot

Communications Ports 1 Available

Disk Drive CD-ROM

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Table 3-1: System Resource Requirements

I/O Resources 1 IRQ, 40 bytes I/O Space

Memory 32 MB

Disk Space 7 MB

AirCard Software Installation Procedures

This section provides detailed installation instructions. Proceed to the heading that corresponds to your operating system.

Windows 95 Pre-Installation Procedures

Note: Windows system files may be required to complete installation of the AirCard 555 driver. These files are located on the Windows CD and may be stored on your hard drive in CAB files. Ensure you have your Windows CD, or know the location of the .CAB files before proceeding.

Depending on how Windows 95 was installed on your PC and what devices have since been installed, your PC card (PCMCIA) slots may or may not have been enabled and the TCP/IP stack may or may not be installed. Since the AirCard requires these, this section guides you through these steps:

1. Verifying that the PC card slots are enabled

2. Verifying that TCP/IP is installed

Verifying That the PC Card Slots Are Enabled

1. Open the Control Panel by selecting Start > Settings >

Control Panel

2. Double click the PC card icon.

3. If the PC Card (PCMCIA) Properties window is displayed,

the slots are enabled and you can proceed to the section “Verifying That TCP/IP Is Installed”.

4. If the PC Card (PCMCIA) Wizard is displayed, the slots

are not yet enabled, and the wizard guides you through the enabling process. (Generally it is sufficient to click at each window.) Click click

Yes when prompted to restart the PC.

Finish on the final window and

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Chapter 3: Installation on Notebook PCs

Verifying That TCP/IP Is Installed

1. If the Control Panel is not already open, select Start >

Settings > Control Panel

to open it.

2. Double click the Network icon.

3. Look for “TCP/IP” next to any listing on the Configuration

tab. If TCP/IP is listed, you can close the window and proceed to the section “Installing Procedures for Windows 95, 98, Me, and 2000”.

4. If TCP/IP is not listed, click the Add... button to open the

Select Component Type window.

5. Select Protocol in the component type list and click the

Add... button to open the Select Network Protocol window.

6. Select Microsoft under Manufacturers and TCP/IP under

Network Protocols, then click the

OK button.

7. Verify that a listing for TCP/IP appears in the Network

window and then click the

OK button to close the window.

8. If you are prompted that your network is not complete,

make the selections appropriate to your network configuration.

9. If you are prompted for the Windows CD, replace the

AirCard installation CD with the Windows 95 CD, or enter the path to the .CAB files.

10. Click Yes at the prompt to restart your PC. Once the PC

has restarted, proceed to the next section.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Note: A driver is software that forms the interface between a device (such as the AirCard) and the operating system on your PC (such as Windows 98).

Note: Users of Windows 2000 must be logged in with administrative privileges to install the AirCard software.

Installation Procedures for Windows 95, 98, Me, and 2000

Follow these steps to install Watcher, the Network Adapter Manager, and the AirCard driver.

1. If the AirCard CD is not already in your CD-ROM drive,

insert it. The CD should auto-start and display a menu.

2. If the CD does not auto-start, select Start > Run and enter

d:\launch.exe where d is the drive letter of your CD-ROM

drive.

3. From the CD start-up window, select notebook installation

and documentation

launch the InstallShield Wizard.

4. Use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the

wizard noting the following:

· You must click Yes to indicate your acceptance of the

terms of the license agreement to proceed with the installation.

and then notebook software installation to

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

· Using the default settings for the Destination Location

and Program Folder is recommended unless you have special requirements and an advanced understanding of PC configuration. (The Destination Location dictates where the software is installed. The Program Folder dictates the name assigned to the software in the Add/ Remove Programs in the Control Panel.)

· A check box allows you to choose to display release

notes. The release notes list known issues in the software and are displayed in the Windows Notepad. (If you choose to display them, when you are finished reading, use the close box in the upper right corner of the window to close the Notepad.)

· A check box allows you to choose to have a desktop

shortcut for Watcher. This gives you the option of launching Watcher by double clicking an icon on your desktop (as well as from the Start menu).

· Click Finish to close the last screen of the wizard.

Note: Do not forcefully connect the antenna, or forcefully insert the AirCard. This may damage connector pins. See page 34 for instructions on removing the AirCard.

5. If your operating system is Windows 2000, you are

prompted that the driver files will be copied to your notebook. Click

OK. Click Yes on the Digital Signature Not

Found window each time it appears.

6. Click OK when you are prompted to insert the AirCard.

Attach the antenna and insert the AirCard into your PC card slot.

7. Click OK when you are notified that the installation is

complete. If your operating system is Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows Me, restart your PC from the

Start menu.

On completion of this step, Watcher, the Network Adapter Manager, and the AirCard driver are installed and you can proceed to install the Venturi compression software. This is described in the “Venturi Software Installation” section on page 33.

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Chapter 3: Installation on Notebook PCs

Installation Procedures for Windows XP and NT

Note: Users of Windows NT must be logged in with administrative privileges to install the AirCard software. Users of Windows XP may require administrative privileges, depending on the XP installation.

Follow these steps to install Watcher and the Network Adapter Manager.

1. If the AirCard CD is not already in your CD-ROM drive,

insert it. The CD should auto-start and display a menu.

2. If the CD does not auto-start, select Start > Run and enter

d:\launch.exe where d is the drive letter of your CD-ROM

drive.

3. From the CD start-up window, select notebook installation

and documentation

and then notebook software installation to

launch the InstallShield Wizard.

4. Use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the

wizard noting the following:

· You must click Yes to indicate your acceptance of the

terms of the license agreement to proceed with the installation.

· Using the default settings for the Destination Location

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

· A check box allows you to choose to display release

· A check box allows you to choose to have a desktop

shortcut for Watcher. This gives you the option of launching Watcher by double clicking an icon on your desktop (as well as from the Start menu).

· Click Finish to close the last screen of the wizard.

5. If you are running Windows XP, a window indicates that

the driver files will be copied to your notebook. Click and click

Continue Anyway on the Software Installation

window each time it appears. A window prompts you to insert your AirCard 555 to install the drivers. Click

OK.

Follow the driver installation instructions for your operating system.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Windows XP Driver Installation

Note: Do not forcefully connect the antenna, or forcefully insert the AirCard. This may damage connector pins. See page 34 for instructions on removing the AirCard.

1. Attach the antenna to the AirCard and, with the label

facing up, carefully insert the AirCard into your PC card slot. Windows should detect that a new device has been inserted and launch the wizard that guides you through the driver installation.

2. Select Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) on the

first window of the Found New Hardware Wizard and click

Next to proceed.

3. Select the Search for the best driver in these locations radio

button, and the then enter your CD-ROM drive. Click

Include this location in the search check box,

d:\Drivers\WinXP where d is the drive letter of

Next to proceed to the next

window.

4. If a warning appears stating that AirCard 555 has not

passed Windows Logo testing, click

Continue Anyway.

5. Click Finish and repeat steps 1 to 4 as prompted.

6. Click OK when prompted that the AirCard 555 has been

successfully installed.

On completion of this step, the driver is installed and you can proceed to install the Venturi software. This is described in the “Venturi Software Installation” section on page 33.

Windows NT Driver Installation

Since Windows NT does not have the “Plug and Play” feature included in other Windows operating systems, installing the AirCard driver requires more steps. Installation involves:

• Verifying that your PC card slots are enabled

• Checking whether Networking is installed

• Installing the network card driver (procedures depend on

whether or not Networking is already installed)

• Installing the modem driver

• Verifying that RAS (Remote Access Service) is installed

Note: You must re-install the Windows NT Service Pack after you install the AirCard driver. Ensure you have your Service Pack CD before you begin. (Version 6a is supported.)

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Chapter 3: Installation on Notebook PCs

Note: Windows system files may also be required to complete the installation. These files are located on the Windows NT CD and may also be stored as CAB files on your hard drive. If the .CAB files are not available to you, the recommendation is to copy the Windows NT driver from the AirCard CD to a directory on your hard drive. The Windows NT driver is located on the AirCard installation CD in the directory \Drivers\WinNT.

Windows NT Users: Your P C must be off whenever you insert or eject the AirCard.

1. If your PC is on, close any Windows programs that are

running and shut down the PC.

2. Attach the antenna to the AirCard, and with the label

facing up, carefully insert the AirCard into your PC card slot. Turn on your PC.

3. If the AirCard installation CD is not already in your CD-

ROM drive, insert it.

4. If the CD start-up menu is displayed, use the exit option in

the lower left corner of the screen to exit the menu.

Verifying That the PC Card Slots Are Enabled:

5. Open the Control Panel by selecting Start > Settings >

Control Panel

from the taskbar.

6. Double click the PC Card icon.

7. If a window titled PC Card (PCMCIA) Properties appears,

the slots are already enabled. Close this window and proceed to the next section.

8. If the PC Card (PCMCIA) Wizard appears, the slots are not

yet enabled, and the wizard guides you through the installation process. (Generally it is sufficient to click each window.) Click

Finish on the final window and you

should be prompted to restart your PC. Click

Next at

Yes and

allow the PC to shut down. Then restart it.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Determining Whether Networking is Installed:

1. If the Control Panel is not open, select Start > Settings >

Control Panel

2. Double click the Network icon.

3. If the Network window opens, networking is already

installed. Proceed to the section “Installing the Network Card Driver When Networking Is Already Installed” on page 31.

4. If a dialog box appears, prompting you to install

Networking, the component has not yet been installed. Proceed to the section “Installing the Network Card Driver When Networking Has Not Been Installed” that follows.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Installing the Network Card Driver When Networking Has Not Been Installed:

1. Click Yes at the prompt, “Do you want to install it now?”

to launch the wizard that installs Networking.

2. Click the check boxes on the first window of the wizard so

that

Wired to the network: is checked and Remote access to the

network:

is NOT checked. Click Next to proceed.

3. Click the Select from list... button to open the Select

Network Adapter window.

4. Click the Have Disk... button to open the Insert Disk

window.

5. If you have copied the driver from the AirCard installation

CD to your hard drive, enter the path to the driver and click

OK to open the Select OEM Option window.

6. If you are installing the driver from the AirCard instal-

lation CD, enter for your CD-ROM drive and click

d:\Drivers\WinNT where d is the drive letter

OK to open the Select

OEM Option window.

7. If Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 is highlighted, click OK. The

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 should appear in the Network Setup Wizard under Network Adapters. Otherwise click

Cancel and repeat the previous two steps.

8. Click Next to display a list of network protocols.

9. Ensure TCP/IP Protocol is checked (as well as any other

protocols appropriate to your network configuration) and click

Next to display a list of network services.

10. Select the services appropriate to your network configu-

ration and click

Next. (For the purpose of installing the

AirCard 555, it does not matter what selections you make in this window.)

11. Click Next.

12. If the Windows NT Setup window appears, system files

are required to install the components you checked. Either insert the Windows NT CD and enter your CD-ROM drive letter, or enter the path to the .CAB files. Click

Continue.

Note: Use the Windows NT Diagnostics window to locate an available IRQ and I/O space. Make note of the Com Port that you use to install the network card driver. You must enter the same Com Port when installing the modem driver.

13. Use the drop down menus to select an I/O Port, Interrupt,

Memory, and Com Port, noting that the AirCard 555 requires 1 IRQ and 40 bytes of I/O Space. Click

Continue.

14. If the Windows NT Setup window appears again, enter the

path to your CD-ROM drive or the CAB files.

15. Click Yes at the DHCP prompt to proceed to a display of

network bindings. (DHCP or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol is required by the AirCard 555 regardless of your network configuration.)

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Chapter 3: Installation on Notebook PCs

16. Click Next to start the Network component.

17. Click Next to proceed to the window in which you enter a

Computer Name and Workgroup or Domain.

18. Enter the information appropriate to your network config-

uration and click

Next.

19. Click Finish on the final window of the wizard.

20. Click Yes at the prompt to restart your PC. (You must

restart your PC to complete the driver installation.)

21. When the PC restarts, reinstall your Service Pack.

On completion of this step, the network card driver is installed and you can proceed to install the modem driver. Follow the instructions in the section, “Installing the Modem Driver” on page 31.

Installing the Network Card Driver When Networking Is Already Installed:

1. Click the Adapters tab in the Network window.

2. Click the Add... button to open the Select Network Adapter

window.

3. Click the Have Disk... button to open the Insert Disk

window.

4. If you have copied the driver from the AirCard CD to your

hard drive, enter the path to the driver and click

OK to

open the Select OEM Option window.

5. If you are installing the driver from the AirCard CD, enter

d:\Drivers\WinNT where d is the drive letter for your CD-

ROM drive and click

OK to open the Select OEM Option

window.

6. If Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 is highlighted, click OK. The

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 should appear under Network Adapters in the Network Setup Wizard. Otherwise, click

Cancel and repeat the previous two steps.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

7. Use the drop-down menus to select an I/O Port, Interrupt,

Memory, and Com Port, noting that the AirCard 555 requires 1 IRQ and 40 bytes of I/O Space. Click

Continue.

8. Select the Obtain an IP address from a DHCP Server radio

button and click the

Close button.

9. Click Yes to confirm that you want to use DHCP.

10. Click No if prompted to restart your PC. (You must restart

your PC after the modem driver installation.)

On completion of this step, the network card driver is installed and you can proceed to install the modem driver. Follow the instructions in the next section.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Installing the Modem Driver

1. In the Control Panel, double click the Modem icon to open

the Modem Properties window.

2. Click the Add button to open the Install New Modem

wizard.

3. Select Don’t detect my modem, I will select it from a list and click

Next.

4. Select the Have Disk button.

5. Enter d:\Drivers\WinNT\mdmac555 where d is the drive letter

for your CD-ROM drive and click

Open.

6. Click OK.

7. Verify that Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 Modem is displayed

and click

Next.

8. Select the Selected Ports radio button and select the same

communications port you selected when you installed the network card driver. Click

Next.

9. Click Finish.

10. If you are prompted that Dial-Up Networking needs to be

configured, click

Yes.

11. Click Add in the Remote Access Setup window.

12. Select the AirCard 555 listing under RAS Capable Devices

and click

OK.

13. If you are prompted to restart your PC, click Yes.

Otherwise restart your PC from the Start menu.

14. When the PC restarts, re-install your Service Pack.

On completion of this step, the modem driver is installed. Verify that Remote Access Service is installed before proceeding to install the Venturi software.

Verifying that RAS is Installed:

1. In the Control Panel, double click the Network icon to open

the Network window.

2. Click the Services tab.

3. If Remote Access Service is listed under Network Services,

the component is installed and you can skip to the next section. Otherwise, proceed to step 4.

4. Click to select Computer Browser.

5. Click the Add…button to open the Select Network Service.

6. Select Remote Access Service and click OK.

7. If the Windows NT Setup window appears, either insert

the Windows NT CD and enter your CD-ROM drive letter, or enter the path to the .CAB files. Click

Continue.

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Chapter 3: Installation on Notebook PCs

8. Select COMx - Sierra Wireless AirCard 555… (where x is the

letter of the Com Port you assigned to the AirCard 555) from the drop-down menu and click

OK.

9. Verify that Sierra Wireless AirCard 555… is displayed in the

Remote Access Setup window and click

Continue.

10. Restart your PC if prompted.

On completion of this step, the driver is installed and you can proceed to install the Venturi software. This is described in the next section.

Note: Users of Windows 2000 and Windows NT must be logged in with administrative privileges to install the Venturi software. Users of Windows XP may require administrative privileges, depending on the XP installation.

Venturi Software Installation

Follow these steps to install the Venturi compression software.

1. If the AirCard CD is already in your CD-ROM drive, select

Start > Run and enter d:\launch.exe (where d is the drive

letter of your CD-ROM drive) to display the startup menu. Otherwise, insert the CD in your CD-ROM drive. (The CD should auto-start and display the menu.)

2. From the CD start-up window, select notebook installation

and documentation

then

Venturi software installation, to launch the InstallShield

Wizard.

3. Use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the

wizard noting the following:

· You must click Yes to indicate your acceptance of the

terms of the license agreement to proceed with the installation.

· Using the default settings for the Destination Location

, then Venturi installation and documentation,

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

· A check box allows you to choose to display release

· Radio buttons on the final window of the wizard allow

you to choose to restart your PC now or later. You must restart your PC before you can use the software. Select a

Rev 3.0 Dec.01 33

AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

radio button and click Finish to close the last screen of the wizard.

· Use the exit option in the lower left corner of the window

to close the CD start-up menu.

On completion of this step, the Venturi software is installed and you can proceed to configure the AirCard to use your account (if it was not pre-activated). See the section “Account Configuration Procedures” on page 35.

Card Insertion and Removal

Inserting the AirCard

The AirCard should be inserted into the PC card slot with the label facing up.

Note: If you are using Windows NT, you must restart your PC whenever you insert or eject the AirCard.

In Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, and XP, 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 is powered as soon as you insert it.

Removing the AirCard

To remove the AirCard (Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, or XP):

1. Close Watcher if it is open.

2. Click the PC Card icon in the status area to display the

option to stop the card.

3. Click “Stop Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent”

(Windows 95, 98, 2000, or Me) or “Safely remove Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent” (Windows XP).

4. If a dialog box appears notifying you that it is safe to

remove the card, click

5. Use the ejector to remove the AirCard from the slot.

OK.

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Chapter 3: Installation on Notebook PCs

Account Configuration Procedures

The final step to making the AirCard operational is configuring it to use your account.

Note: See Chapter 2 “Getting Started” for an overview of account activation and configuration.

Note: Keep a written record of your activation code, phone number, and SID in a secure place. You will need this information if you need to reactivate the AirCard.

If you purchased a pre-activated AirCard, this step is not necessary. Once the application software and driver are installed, the AirCard is ready for use.

Otherwise, you must use the Activation Wizard to activate and configure your account. Future releases of the AirCard software will allow for Manual Activation and Voice-Assisted Activation but only Manual Activation is available in this release. Manual Activation involves phoning a service provider, exchanging information, and entering your account information into the appropriate fields in the wizard. You require a phone, other than the AirCard, to use this method.

If you have not yet selected a service provider, refer to the Sierra Wireless web site, (www.sierrawireless.com) for a listing of service providers.

To activate an account and configure your AirCard:

1. Insert the AirCard into your PC card slot, if it is not

already inserted.

2. If the Activation Wizard does not auto-launch, run

Watcher (by selecting

AirCard 555 for Verizon Wireless) and in Watcher select Tools

Administration > Activation Wizard.

3. Use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the

Activation Wizard, noting the following:

· Use the radio button to select Manual Activation as the

method of activation you want to use.

· Obtain the billing information listed on the second

window of the wizard before phoning the service provider or proceeding to the next window.

· Contact your service provider. The representative will

request your ESN (electronic serial number). This is displayed in the Activation Wizard (and is printed on the AirCard box and on the label on the back of the AirCard).

· The representative will tell you your activation code,

phone number, and SID (System ID). Enter these values into the appropriate fields in the Activation Wizard.

4. Click Finish on the final window of the wizard.

Start > Programs > Sierra Wireless >

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

On completion of this step, the AirCard is ready for use. The next chapter explains how to use Watcher to manage and monitor your connections.

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4: The Watcher Window and

Indicators

• Components of the

Watcher Window

• The Menu Bar

• The Minimize, Toggle

Full/Compact, and Close Buttons

• Connection Status

Area

• Call Status Box

• Indicator Area

• Taskbar Icons Watcher is the application that allows you to manage and

monitor the connection between the AirCard 555 network card and the CDMA network. You use Watcher to:

• Determine your signal strength, roaming status, 1xRTT

availability, and other network connection parameters

• Initiate voice and data calls

• View call statistics and SMS messages

• Enable and disable features like Always On Top (that

allows you to set the Watcher window to display in front of other application windows), and KeyGuard (that prevents accidental dialing)

• Set options related to SMS messages, sounds played, voice

calls, and the lock code security feature (that you can use to prevent others from using your AirCard)

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Installation and Use

Anytime you use the AirCard you must run Watcher.

Note: Help is available in most windows by pressing F1. Also, in any window that has a ? next to the close button, you can click the ? button, then click any field in the window, to display a description of the field. Fully indexed help is also available from the Help menu.

Rev 3.0 Dec.01 37

Depending on your settings in the Options window, Watcher launches automatically anytime you insert the AirCard 555. You can also launch Watcher by:

• Double clicking the Watcher icon on your desktop

• Selecting Start > Programs > Sierra Wireless >

AirCard 555 > Watcher 555 for Verizon Wireless

AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Components of the Watcher Window

The Watcher window has these components:

• A menu bar on the upper left side of the window

• The Minimize, Toggle Full/Compact, and Close buttons in

the top right corner

• The Data and Voice tabs on the upper right side of the

window

• A section of the window that resembles an LCD screen

(beneath the menu bar) that includes these areas:

· The connection status area at the top

· The call status box in the middle

· The indicator area at the bottom

Connection Status Area Call Status Area

Indicator Area

Menu Bar

Toggle Full/Compact Button

Close ButtonMinimize Button

Data/Voice

Control Tabs

Dial-Up

Manager

Button

The Menu Bar

Chapter 7 gives a detailed description of each option in each of Watcher’s three menus: View, Tools, and Help.

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Chapter 4: The Watcher Window and Indicators

The Minimize, Toggle Full/ Compact, and Close Buttons

• The Minimize button closes the Watcher window but leaves

the application running. When Watcher is minimized, the Watcher icon in the status area can be used to determine the AirCard status. (See page 44.)

Once minimized, you can redisplay the Watcher window by double clicking the desktop shortcut or launching Watcher from the Start menu. (See page 37.) You can also click the Watcher icon in the status area. (The icons are shown in the section “Taskbar Icons” on page 44.)

• The Toggle Full/Compact button is used to switch between

the full Watcher window and the compact view:

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The compact view allows you to see connection status information while you use other applications.

• The Close button is used to exit Watcher.

Connection Status Area

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Note: Optimal signal strength is obtained when the antenna is perpendicular to the AirCard.

The Connection Status area uses these icons:

Table 4-1: Connection Status Area Icons

Icon Meaning

The Signal Strength indicator uses bars to show the intensity of the radio signal. The number of bars increases as signal strength increases to a maximum of five bars.

When the bars are dimmed and the antenna icon is crossed out, no connection is possible for one of these 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 555 from obtaining service

The 1x indicator shows whether 1xRTT is available in this area.

Where 1xRTT packet service is available, you can make high speed Express Network data connections, if your billing plan allows for it. (Depending on your billing plan, there may be a surcharge for 1xRTT data connections.)

Note that this indicator does not distinguish between voice service and packet service. If you are in an area where 1xRTT voice service is available, this indicator may be on although packet service is not available.

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Chapter 4: The Watcher Window and Indicators

Table 4-1: Connection Status Area Icons

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.

Your coverage area and billing 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 roaming area or a 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 in non-preferred roaming areas.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

The In Use indicator shows whether a call is in progress. No icon is displayed when the AirCard is idle. Otherwise, one of these icons is displayed:

When the In Use indicator is a handset, a voice call is in progress.

When the In Use indicator is a modem, a data call is in progress.

When the In Use indicator is a modem labelled “1x”, an Express Network (1xRTT) data call is in progress. (For a description of 1xRTT data calls, see page 49.)

When the In Use indicator is a large “X”, a fatal error has occurred and the AirCard is inoperable. (This may be resolved by closing Watcher and restarting your PC.)

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Call Status Box

The Call Status Box displays one of these messages:

• Ready to Connect indicates that you have a network

connection but there is no call in progress.

• Dialing indicates that the AirCard is attempting to connect

to a phone number.

• Time … the name of the person with whom you are connected

(or “Unknown” if the name is not obtainable), and the phone number indicates that a voice call is in progress. The time

shown is the duration of the call.

Note: Watcher begins timing outgoing calls from the time the call is initiated—not from the time the call is answered.

• Time…Rx…Tx… indicates that a data call is in progress.

The time shown is the duration of the call. Rx shows the number of bytes of data received. Tx shows the number of bytes of data transmitted.

• Voice Call From… indicates that an incoming voice call is in

progress.

• Roam Call From … indicates that an incoming voice call is

in progress and you are roaming.

• Data Call From … indicates that an incoming data call is in

progress.

• Fax Call From … indicates that an incoming fax call is in

progress.

• … New Missed Call(s) indicates that you received a call (or

calls) that you failed to answer. (Depending on your settings in the Options window, a record of these calls is maintained in the call log which is described on page 63.)

Indicator Area

The Indicator area displays icons that notify you when you receive messages and indicate whether certain options and features are enabled. The icons are black when “on” and gray when “off”.

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Chapter 4: The Watcher Window and Indicators

Table 4-2: Indicator Area Icons

Icon Meaning

The SMS message indicator shows whether you have unread messages. A blinking SMS message icon indicates that there are one or more urgent or important unread messages. To display the SMS Manager window (in which the messages are displayed) select Tools > Mobile Messenger… or double click the icon. See page 58 for instructions on reading SMS messages.

The voice mail indicator shows whether you have unheard voice messages. To hear the messages, you must connect to your voice messaging system. Double click this icon to dial your voice messaging system. (The phone number for your voice messaging system can be changed in the Options window. See page 86.)

The missed call indicator appears if you failed to answer an incoming call. To view the phone number(s) of any missed calls, double click the icon to display the call log. (See page 63 for instructions on using the call log.)

The auto-answer indicator shows whether Watcher is set to automatically answer incoming calls. You can enable and disable this feature under Tools > Options.

The headset indicator shows whether a headset is connected to the AirCard.

This indicator shows whether the silent ringer feature is enabled. When enabled, no sound is played when an incoming call is received. You can enable and disable this feature under Tools > Options.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Table 4-2: Indicator Area Icons

Icon Meaning

The privacy indicator shows whether encryption is in use on voice calls. (Encryption prevents your calls from being monitored.) The AirCard uses encryption where it is available on the network.

The compression indicator shows whether V.42bis compression is in use. In future releases, the AirCard will use V.42bis where available on the network, to increase throughput and the effective data transmission speed. (V.42 compression is not supported in this release.)

Taskbar Icons

Watcher displays an icon in the status area (which is usually located in the lower right corner of your screen). The status area icon indicates your connection status or notifies you when you have voice mail or SMS messages, or when you have missed a call.

Table 4-3: Status Area Icons

Icon Meaning

You are in service on the CDMA network but have no active voice or data connection.

You have an active voice or data connection.

You missed (failed to answer) an incoming call. You can view the number of the caller in the call log.

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Chapter 4: The Watcher Window and Indicators

Table 4-3: Status Area Icons

Icon Meaning

You have unread SMS message(s).

You have voice mail.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

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5: Data Connections

• Dial-Up Connections

• Quick 2 Net

Connections

• Express Network

Connections

The Data tab on the main Watcher window is used to make data connections for any of these purposes:

• Browsing the Internet

• Sending and receiving e-mail

• Dialing into your corporate network

• Sending and receiving faxes

The AirCard 555 network card offers three types of data connections:

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Note: You cannot have a data and a voice connection at the same time. If you have a data connection when an incoming call occurs, your caller will get a busy signal or be put through to your voice mail box.

Note: Depending on your billing plan, there may be a surcharge for 1xRTT calls.

• Dial-up connection – in this type of connection, the

AirCard 555 functions as a modem. You provide the phone number and the AirCard dials the number. Using this type of connection, you can connect to any other modem and receive faxes. The maximum speed of this type of connection is 14.4 kbps, or 56 kbps if Venturi compression software is used to increase the throughput.

• Quick 2 Net connection – in this type of connection, the

AirCard makes a direct Internet connection. The data transmission speed for this type of Internet connection is the same as for a dial-up connection but the time required to initiate the connection is shorter. Quick 2 Net availability is dependent on your service provider. (This type of connection is sometimes called Quick Net Connect or QNC.)

• Express Network connection – in this type of connection,

the AirCard functions as a network card. The AirCard establishes a high-speed Internet connection to the CDMA network. (You do not need to provide a phone number and there is no dialing involved.) The maximum speed of this connection is 144 kbps but it is only available in areas where 1xRTT has been implemented.

The Express Network connection provides access to the Internet. 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).

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Connection

Drop-Down

Phone Number

Display and Entry

Dial-Up Manager

Button

Connect / Cancel

Disconnect Button

Dial-Up Connections

These steps are required to make a dial-up connection:

1. Set up the number in the Dial-Up Manager. (This step is

only necessary the first time you dial the number.) The Dial-Up Manager is displayed by selecting

Manager

, or by clicking the Dial-Up Manager button to the right of the Connect button. See page 65 for detailed instructions on using the Dial-Up Manager.

2. Select the connection name from the pull-down menu on

the Data tab of the main Watcher window. The number is then displayed in the

Dial-Up # field.

Tools > Dial-Up

Note: Changing the phone number in the Dial-Up # field does not change the record in the Dial-Up Manager. (That is, the next time you select the connection, the phone number will revert to the number stored in the Dial-Up Manager.) For instructions on changing the record in the Dial-Up Manager, see page 67.

3. If necessary, change the phone number in the Dial-Up #

field. (For example, depending on your location, you may need to add or remove the area code.)

4. Click the Connect button.

Watcher then initiates the connection. Progress is shown in the call status area. Once the connection is established, the call statistics (duration, bytes transmitted, and bytes received) are displayed.

To terminate a call:

1. Click the Cancel button (during the connection process) or

the

Disconnect button (once the connection is established).

Incoming Data Calls

By default the AirCard is set to answer all calls as voice calls. To receive a fax or data call, you must set the AirCard to answer appropriately. This setting is in the Options window (

Tools > Options) on the General tab. See page 69 for a detailed

explanation.

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Chapter 5: Data Connections

To terminate an incoming call:

1. Click the Cancel button (during the connection process) or

the

Disconnect button (once the connection is established).

Quick 2 Net Connections

The Quick 2 Net connection is set up for you when Watcher is installed. All you need to do to make the connection is:

1. Select Quick 2 Net (14.4 kbps) from the drop-down menu on

the Data tab of the main Watcher window.

2. Click the Connect button.

Once connected you can use any Internet application (such as Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, or your e-mail application).

To terminate a Quick 2 Net connection:

1. Click the Cancel button (during the connection process) or

the

Disconnect button (once the connection is established).

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Installation and Use

Note: The 1xRTT indicator only shows that 1xRTT service is available; it does not indicate whether voice or packet service is available.

Note: Depending on a setting in the Options window, a message warning you of a possible surcharge for 1xRTT service may be displayed whenever you establish a 1xRTT connection. This warning message can be disabled in the Options window. See page 75.

Express Network Connections

An Express Network connection can be established only in areas where 1xRTT packet service has been implemented. To make an Express Network connection:

1. Select Express Network (1xRTT) from the drop-down menu

on the Data tab of the main Watcher window.

2. Click the Connect button. (No phone number or dialing is

required.)

Once the connection is established, you can use any Internet application (such as Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, or your e-mail application).

To terminate an Express Network connection:

1. Click the Cancel button (during the connection process) or

the

Disconnect button (once the connection is established).

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

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6: Voice Connections

• The Dial Pad

• The Scratch Pad

• Outgoing Calls

• Incoming Calls You can use your AirCard 555 network card as a mobile phone

simply by connecting a headset. Use only approved headsets with the AirCard 555. (See the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com for a listing of approved headsets.)

Note: The headset connects to the circular connector on the end of the AirCard next to the antenna.

Note: Many voice features are configured in the Options window. See page 83.

The AirCard 555 has several voice features:

• The volume controls allow you to adjust the loudness of

what you hear.

• The mute button allows you to turn off the speaker so that

you cannot be heard.

• The Send button allows you to redial the previously dialed

number.

• The Any-Key Answer feature allows you to answer an

incoming call by pressing any button on the dial pad except

• The Auto-Answer feature can be enabled to automatically

answer incoming calls within a specified number of rings.

• The KeyGuard feature prevents accidental dialing.

• The Silent Ringer feature prevents any sound from

occurring when you receive calls.

• The Missed Call indicator notifies you of any incoming

calls that were not answered.

• A scratch pad provides an easily accessible place to record

very brief notes.

• The call log records details about all incoming and

outgoing calls, providing useful information such as the phone numbers of missed calls.

• If your billing plan with your service provider includes

Conference Calling (Three-Way Calling), Voice Mail, Call Alert, or Caller-ID, they are supported by the AirCard.

End, Clr, or the volume controls.

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The Dial Pad

The dial pad for the AirCard is in Watcher and is displayed when you click the Voice tab. This performs the same functions as the dial pad on a mobile phone.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Volume Buttons

Mute

Button

Phone Book

Button

Scratch Pad

Button

Table 6-1: The Watcher Dial Pad

Dial Pad

Buttons

0-9, #, *

(or the same

keys on your keyboard)

Send

(<Enter> on

your keyboard)

End

(<Esc> on

your keyboard)

Function

Use these buttons to enter the digits (and other characters) you want to dial. The numbers are displayed in the call status area until you press Send, End, or Clr, or you receive an incoming call.

Any of these buttons can be used to answer an incoming call if the Any-Key Answer feature is enabled.

If you click (or press) these buttons during a call, the AirCard beeps and the characters are displayed in the call status area.

Use this button to dial and to answer incoming calls. When you are not receiving an incoming call, clicking Send dials the numbers in the call status area. If no numbers are displayed, Watcher re-dials the last number you dialed.

Use this button to hang-up or end a call, or to clear all the digits and characters in the call status area (i.e. to cancel a call that you’ve started to enter). This button also clears most status messages.

Clr

(<Backspace>

on your keyboard)

Use this button to clear the last number you’ve entered. If you hold this button down for one second, it has the same effect as the End key. This button can also be used to hang-up or end a call.

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Chapter 6: Voice Connections

Table 6-1: The Watcher Dial Pad

Dial Pad

Buttons

Volu m e

Buttons

(Up Arrow and

Down Arrow)

Mute Button Use this key during a call to prevent the caller

Use the Up Arrow to increase the headset volume you hear. Use the Down Arrow to decrease the volume.

from hearing what you say.

When no call is in progress, this key enables and disables the Silent Ringer feature.

Function

The Scratch Pad

The scratch pad gives you a place to record very brief notes (such as a name and phone number).

Display the scratch pad by clicking the Scratch Pad button on the right side of the Watcher window.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Note: The standard function keys for copy (CTRL+C), cut (CTRL+X), and paste (CTRL+V) can be used to move text from the scratch pad to another application (such as the Windows Notepad).

To enter text:

1. Type t he text from your keyboard.

To erase all the text in the scratch pad:

1. Click the clear button.

To close the scratch pad (saving any text in it):

1. Click the ok button.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Outgoing Calls

To initiate a call:

1. Connect a headset to the AirCard, if one is not already

connected.

Note: If you the Send button without entering a number, the AirCard redials the last number you dialed.

Note: The Options window, displayed when you select Tools > Options, allows you to customize the sound played when you receive an incoming call and to enable and disable the Silent Ringer feature.

Note: If an incoming call occurs while you have a data connection, your caller will get a busy signal or be put through to your voice mail box.

2. Enter the number you want to dial by either clicking the

number buttons on the dial pad or typing the numbers on your keyboard.

3. Click the Send button.

As the call is being dialed, Watcher displays “Dialing” and the phone number.

You can also initiate a call from the call log. The call log is displayed when you select

Tools > Call Log and is described on

page 63.

Incoming Calls

Depending on how certain features are configured, when you receive an incoming call the following occurs:

• A sound is played, unless the Silent Ringer feature is

enabled.

• If Watcher is in compact view when you receive the call,

the Watcher window maximizes.

To answer a call:

1. Connect a headset to the AirCard, if one is not already

connected.

2. Click the Send button (or, if the Any-Key Answer feature is

enabled, click any key except

End or Clr.)

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7: The Watcher Menu Options

• The View Menu

• The Tools Menu

• The Help Menu

This chapter describes each option in each of the Watcher menus.

The View Menu

The options under the View menu allow you to:

• Set the Watcher window to always display on top of other

application windows.

• Set the Watcher window to jump to the edge of the screen

(dock) when you reposition the window.

• Switch between the compact version of the Watcher

window and the full version.

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Always On Top

When Always On Top is enabled, the Watcher window displays in front of all other application windows, even when you position another window over Watcher. This allows you to view connection status indicators while using another application, such as your Internet browser.

To enable or disable Always On Top:

1. Select Always On Top from the View menu.

A check mark next to the option indicates that it is enabled.

Docking

When Docking is enabled, the Watcher window jumps to the edge of your screen when the window is dragged close to an edge. This allows you to easily position the window to a corner of your screen.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

To enable or disable Docking

1. Select Docking from the View menu.

A check mark next to the option indicates that it is enabled.

Toggle Full/Compact

The Watcher window has two sizes:

The Full Window

Note: The Watcher window switches to full view automatically when you receive an incoming call.

The Compact Window

The full window is required to initiate data connections and make voice calls, but if all you require from Watcher is status information, you can use the compact view.

To switch from the full window to the compact window:

1. Select Toggle Full/Compact from the View menu.

1. Click the Toggle Full/Compact button (next to the Close

button in the upper right corner of the Watcher window).

To switch from the compact window to the full window:

1. Click the Toggle Full/Compact button.

1. Right click on the Watcher window.

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Chapter 7: The Watcher Menu Options

2. Select Toggle Full/Compact from the shortcut menu.

The Tools Menu

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

The options under the Tools menu allow you to:

• Send and receive SMS messages. (See page 58.)

• View the call log that lists the phone numbers and other

details of voice and data calls you’ve made and received. (See page 63.)

• Maintain the Dial-Up Manager in which you enter the

phone numbers and details required to make data calls. (See page 65.)

• Enable and disable features like KeyGuard, Auto-Answer,

Any-Key Answer, the Lock Code, and certain alerts and warning messages.

• Configure options related to SMS messages, the call log,

the location of the Watcher window on your screen, and sounds used to notify you of incoming calls and messages.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Mobile Messenger…

The Mobile Messenger… window is used to display SMS messages you receive and to send SMS messages.

Note: Check with your service provider for information about SMS service subscription. Additional charges may apply.

SMS (Short Messaging Service) is a feature that some service providers offer, that allows you to send and receive short messages (up to 160 characters) through the CDMA network. Depending on your service provider, one or more of these methods of sending SMS messages may be available to you:

• Some wireless service providers have web pages on which

anyone can enter a message and direct it to your phone number. In this case, anyone who has access to the Internet can send you a message, provided he or she knows your phone number and can locate the appropriate web page.

• Some service providers allow SMS messages to be sent

through Internet e-mail applications. Your phone number is then used as an e-mail address (example: 6045553993@serviceprovider.com).

• Some products, such as the AirCard 555, have software

that allows you to send messages to other subscribers, using their phone numbers to direct the message.

The Mobile Messenger… option in the Tools menu allows you to read, create and send SMS messages.

Reading SMS Messages: The Inbox

Incoming messages are stored in the Inbox until you delete them or until they expire (depending on your settings in the Options window).

The SMS indicator notifies you when new messages are received by displaying an envelope icon. The ToolTip (displayed when you position the mouse pointer on top of the icon) identifies how many unread messages you have.

If the icon is flashing, one or more of the messages is tagged as urgent.

To read a message(s):

1. Double click the SMS icon, or select Tools > Mobile

Messenger…

2. Click the Inbox tab if it is not already selected.

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to display the Mobile Messenger window.

Chapter 7: The Watcher Menu Options

on Notebook PCs

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Note: Unread messages are displayed in bold.

Note: The Delete All menu option deletes all messages, whether or not the messages have been read. The message expiry feature deletes only messages that have been read.

The message header is displayed in the top of the window, showing the address or phone number from which the message was sent, the beginning of the message, and the call back number.

3. Click the message header to display the message in the

lower section of the window.

Messages marked with an exclamation mark (!) have been tagged by the sender as being urgent or important.

To delete messages:

1. Use the check boxes to the left of the messages to select the

messages you want to delete.

2. Select Edit > Delete.

3. Confirm that you want to delete the messages by clicking

Yes.

To delete all messages:

1. Select Edit > Delete All.

2. Confirm that you want to delete the messages by clicking

Yes.

Watcher also has a feature that allows you set an expiry period after which messages are automatically deleted. This is set in the Options window. (Select window, and then select the

Tools > Options to display the

SMS tab. This is described in the

“Options” section on page 76.)

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Note: The Reply to Sender menu option is only available if the e-mail address of the person who sent you the message is included in the message. This may not be available if, for example, the message was sent from a web site.

Note: The Call back Sender menu option is only available if the message includes a valid call back number.

To forward a message:

1. Select the message header.

2. Select File > Forward Message… to open the Message

window.

3. In the Message window you can edit the message, append

text to the message, and send it.

To reply to a message:

1. Select the message header.

2. Select File > Reply to Sender…to open the Message window.

3. In the Message window create the message and send it.

To phone the sender of a message:

1. Select the message header.

2. Select File > Call back sender.

Watcher then dials and attempts to connect to the call back number.

To exit the Mobile Messenger window:

1. Select File > Close or click the close box in the upper right

corner.

Note: In the Options window you can enable and disable the option to save outgoing messages to the Outbox.

Sending SMS Messages: The Outbox

The Outbox is the place where your outgoing messages are stored. Click the Outbox tab in the Mobile Messenger window to display the Outbox contents:

The third column from the left indicates the status of

each message in the Outbox:

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Chapter 7: The Watcher Menu Options

Table 7-1: Outgoing Message Status Icons

Icon Meaning

Saved

The message has been saved in the Outbox but not yet sent.

Sent

The message has been sent successfully to the CDMA network but has not yet been delivered to the recipient(s).

Delivered

The message has been delivered to the recipient(s)’ mail box(es).

Partially Sent

The message has been sent to the network but the network did not respond. (This may indicate a network problem.)

Not Sent

The message was sent to the network and the network responded with an error. The error message is shown in the Status field when you display the message.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Some possible reasons for a failure to send are:

• You do not have a subscription to a service that

allows you to send SMS messages.

• The e-mail address in the To field is not valid.

• The message exceeded the maximum length for

SMS messages.

• There is a network problem or a problem with your

account.

To send a message from the Mobile Messenger window:

1. Click New… in the menu bar, or select File > New Message ….

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Note: A message can have up to 10 recipients.

2. Enter the recipients for the message by typing e-mail

addresses, separating each address with a comma (,) or semicolon (;).

Click the To button to display the Add SMS Recipients window.

The Add SMS Recipients window allows you to create a list of e-mail addresses for the

To: field of the Message win-

dow. In this window, you can:

· Enter a new address and click Add-> to add it to the list

of recipients.

· Select an address and click <-Remove to delete it from the

list of recipients.

Use this window to create a recipient list and click OK to return to the Message window.

3. If you want to send a message that is tagged as urgent or

important, select

High from the Priority drop-down menu.

4. Type the message in the lower portion of the window.

5. If you want to save the message in the Outbox and send it

later, select

File > Save.

6. If you want to send the message immediately, click the

Send button, or select File > Send.

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To erase a message and start again:

1. Select Edit > Clear.

To open a message that is saved in the Outbox:

1. Double click the message header to open the message in

the Message window.

You can then edit the message and change or add recipients.

Exiting the Mobile Messenger Window

To exit from the Mobile Messenger window and return to the main Watcher window:

1. Select File > Close.

Click the Close box in the upper right corner of the window.

If there are any unsaved messages, Watcher prompts you to indicate whether you want to save them.

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Phone Book

This feature is not yet available.

Call Log

The call log maintains a record of your outgoing and incoming calls. In the Options window (displayed when you select >

Options) on the General tab, you can choose to keep a record

of:

• None of your calls

• All of your calls

• The last 50 calls

• The last 100 calls

To display the call log:

1. Select Tools > Call Log

Tools

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For each message, the call log displays:

• The call direction (see below)

• The phone number of the caller (for incoming calls), or the

phone number that you dialed (for outgoing calls)

• The date and time the call was made or received

• The name of the caller (for incoming calls), or the name of

the person called (for outgoing calls), if available

• The type of call (data, voice, or fax)

Note: The Dial option in the File menu can be used to establish a voice call to any number in the From or To column.

Table 7-2: Call Direction Icons

Icon Meaning

Incoming Call This is a call that you answered.

Outgoing Call

This is a call that you made.

Missed Call

This is a call you received but did not answer.

To phone a number contained in one of the call records:

1. Double click the record.

1. Select the number.

2. Select File > Dial.

This can be used to place voice calls only.

To save the information in the call log to a text file:

1. Select File > Save As….

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2. Use the Save As dialog box to select a location and name

for the file and click

Save.

Note: The Add to PhoneBook menu option will be available in future versions.

Note: Clicking All Types in the View menu causes all incoming, outgoing, and missed calls to be displayed. Clicking All Logs in the View menu causes all fax, voice, and data calls to be displayed.

To copy a phone number to the Windows Clipboard:

1. Select the record.

2. Select Edit > Copy Phone Number.

You can then paste the number into another window (in most cases, using CTRL+V). The phone number that is copied is the number in the in the

To column for outgoing calls.

From column for incoming calls, and the number

To delete a record:

1. Select the record.

2. Select Edit > Delete.

To delete all records in the call log:

1. Select Edit > Delete All

2. Tap Yes to confirm the deletion.

To select which call records are displayed:

1. Use the View menu to select the call type (Incoming,

Outgoing, Missed) and call logs (Fax Logs, Voice Logs, Data Logs

) to be displayed.

The call log displays only messages that correspond to the type and log that are checked in the View menu. For example, if only

Incoming and Voice Logs are checked, only incoming voice

calls are displayed.

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To sort the calls:

1. Click any column heading to sort by that column in

ascending order.

2. Click the same column heading again to sort by the same

column in descending order.

For example, to sort the calls by name, click the Name column heading. This sorts the records from A to Z. If you click the Name column heading again, the records will be sorted from Z to A.

Dial-Up Manager

The Dial-Up Manager is where dial-up data connections are set up. (See Chapter 5 for a description of the types of data connections.)

In the Dial-Up Manager you can:

• Add new records for phone numbers to which you want to

connect.

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• Change and delete existing records.

• Set the default connection.

• Select and establish a connection.

Note: The default connection is the one established if you click the Connect button on the main Watcher window without making a selection from the drop-down menu.

To add a phone number to the Dial-Up Manager:

1. Open the Dial-Up Manager window by,

Clicking the Dial-Up Manager button on the Data tab

of the main Watcher window.

Selecting Tools > Dial-Up Manager.

2. Click the Add… button to open the Connection Properties

window.

3. Enter a name for the connection and complete the

remaining fields noting the following:

· If the phone number must be preceded with an area

code, click the code. Click the

Use area code check box and enter the area

Use 1 check box if the phone number

must be prefixed with a 1.

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· If dialing into a system that requires you to enter a user

name and password, enter this information. If you want to save the information so that it is not necessary to enter it each time you connect, click the

Save password check

box.

4. Click OK to close the window and save the information

you entered, or

Cancel to close the window without saving.

To change an existing record in the Dial-Up Manager window:

1. Click the connection to select it and click the Properties…

button to open the Connection Properties window.

2. Enter the new information in the appropriate fields. (The

Connection Name cannot be changed.)

3. Click OK to close the window and save the information

you entered, or

Cancel to close the window without saving.

To delete a record in the Dial-Up Manager window:

1. Click the connection to select it and click the Delete button.

2. When prompted to confirm the deletion, click Yes.

To connect to a number in the Dial-Up Manager window:

1. Click the connection to select it and click the Connect

button.

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Note: Use the KeyGuard feature if you are concerned that you might inadvertently press Send and dial a number. No number (except 911) can be dialed while KeyGuard is enabled.

The AirCard then attempts a connection to the phone number you selected.

To set a number as the default in the Dial-Up Manager window:

1. Click the connection to select it and click the Set as Default

button.

KeyGuard

The KeyGuard feature is designed to prevent accidental dialing. When the feature is enabled, clicking the

Send button,

or any other button on the dial pad, has no effect.

To enable or disable KeyGuard:

1. Select KeyGuard from the Tools menu.

A check mark next to the option indicates that it is enabled.

Activation Wizard…

The Activation Wizard is used to configure the AirCard to use your account. An overview of this process is provided on page 19. Specific instructions on using the Activation Wizard begin on page 35.

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Options…

The Options window allows you to configure Watcher and the AirCard 555 to your preferences. In the Options window you can:

• Enable and disable several features, including: Auto-

Answer, Any-Key Answer, the Inactivity Time-Out, AutoConnect, SMS Message Expiry, and the Lock Code.

• Select whether certain warning messages are displayed to

warn you of circumstances such as your data connection being lost.

• Configure options related to call logging, the Watcher

window, the call back number in SMS messaging, sounds that notify you of incoming calls, new SMS messages, and new voice mail.

Use of the Options Window

In the Options window, buttons, drop-down menus, and check boxes are provided to allow you to select your preferences.

Use OK to exit the Options window, saving any changes you’ve made, or

The Restore Defaults button causes all the fields on all the tabs to revert to the settings they had at installation.

Cancel to exit without saving.

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General Tab

Table 7-3: General Tab Options

Field Description

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Data Call Inactivity Timeout: Disconnect

Incoming Calls Answer

The Inactivity Timeout terminates your data connection automatically when the AirCard is inactive for the amount of time you specify here. (The AirCard is inactive when no data transmission is occurring.) Select Never to disable the feature. Otherwise, select the number of minutes after which you want to automatically disconnect.

By default the AirCard is set to answer all calls as voice calls. To receive a fax or data call, you must set this field appropriately, before the call is answered. This means that anyone wanting to send a fax, or establish a data connection with the AirCard, must notify you in advance so that you can change this field before the call is made.

If you select “next call as Fax” or “next call as Data”, the AirCard maintains the setting for one call, or until Watcher is restarted. If you select “all calls as Fax” or “all calls as Data”, the AirCard maintains the setting until you select another option.

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Table 7-3: General Tab Options

Field Description

Call Logging Retain

Active NAM* Profile

You have the option of maintaining records of your outgoing and incoming calls in the call log. (The call log is displayed when you select Tools > Call Log, and is described above.)

This field allows you to specify the number of calls retained. Select none, all, last 50 calls, or last 100 calls from the drop-down menu.

The AirCard allows you to configure and use up to two accounts (with two different phone numbers). This may be useful to users who want, for example, to have one account for business calls and one for personal calls.

This drop-down menu lists these items: Auto-Select, NAM 1, and NAM 2. If one account has been activated, NAM 1 has a phone number next to it, and if two accounts have been activated, NAM 1 and NAM 2 have phone numbers.

When Auto-Select is in effect, the AirCard uses the account most appropriate to your location, based on the coverage of your accounts.

To configure a second account (where only one account has been activated):

1. Select the option NAM 2 from this

drop-down menu and click OK.

2. The Activation Wizard should launch.

You can then configure a second account.

If two accounts are configured, both phone numbers should be displayed in this dropdown menu. To switch from one account to the other:

1. Select the phone number from the

drop-down menu.

* NAM stands for Number Assignment Module and is information stored in the flash memory of the AirCard. The information includes your phone number and parameters specific to your service provider.

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Table 7-3: General Tab Options

Field Description

System Select This field allows you to prevent the AirCard

from roaming or limit roaming to specific channels. (The term “roaming” is explained on page 20.)

CDMA networks use designated radio frequency channels. In every cellular market, the channels are divided into two sets: the A side channels and the B side channels. CDMA network carriers (or service providers) are assigned either the A side or the B side channels in each market by the regulatory agencies that oversee radio transmissions.

The options in this field are:

• Home Only—prevents the AirCard

from roaming

• Automatic—allows the AirCard to

roam on networks of “preferred” service providers.

• Automatic A—allows the AirCard to

roam on networks of “preferred” service providers as well as “nonpreferred” A side service providers.

• Automatic B—allows the AirCard to

roam on networks of “preferred” service providers as well as “nonpreferred” B side service providers.

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Based on the SID (System Identifier) assigned to your account during activation (see page 21), the default in this field is either Automatic A or Automatic B. It is recommended that you leave the default, unless you are advised to change this field by technical support.

Auto-Launch Watcher

This field determines whether Watcher launches automatically when you insert the AirCard 555 into a PC card slot.

If this feature is enabled, Watcher autolaunches when you insert the AirCard. When disabled, you must launch Watcher from the desktop shortcut or from the Start menu.

Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

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Table 7-3: General Tab Options

Field Description

Update System Clock with CDMA time during startup

TTY Mode A TTY (TeleTYpewriter) is a device for

All PCs have an internal clock called the system clock. Depending on your configuration, the time according to this clock is usually displayed in the status area, in the lower right corner of your screen.

Generally you would use the Windows Control Panel to change the time on the system clock. This field gives you the option of setting the time of your system clock automatically from the CDMA network each time you connect. This might be useful to you if you frequently change time zones. Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (It is enabled when checked.)

people with hearing and speech impairments. The device allows people to communicate over phone systems using a typewriter-like keyboard.

When TTY Mode is enabled, you can attach a TTY device to the headset connector and use a TTY device with the AirCard. Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (It is enabled when checked.)

Enable Venturi Client

Note that this feature has not been tested in the current release.

Venturi Client is compression software that increases data throughput between the CDMA network and the AirCard, effectively increasing the data transmission speed. This compression can only be used where it is available on the network. The Venturi Client software necessary to using this compression, is normally installed when you install Watcher and the Network Adapter Manager

When this option is enabled (assuming the Venturi Client software is installed) Venturi compression is used where available to increase throughput. When disabled, Venturi compression is not used even when it is available on the network.

Use the check box to enable and disable support for Venturi compression.

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Network Tab

Table 7-4: Network Tab Options

Field Description

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Automatically establish a network session when available

Display Tab

In future releases the AirCard will have a feature to allow for an immediate 1xRTT connection whenever the AirCard is inserted, where 1xRTT service is available. (See Chapter 5 for a description of 1xRTT connections.) This option is not yet available.

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Table 7-5: Display Tab Options

Field Description

Restore previous position on startup

Remember Compact View position

This field determines where the full Watcher window appears when launched. (The full and compact views of the Watcher window are shown on page 56.)

If this feature is disabled, Watcher always opens in the center of your screen.

If you enable this feature and move the Watcher window, the window will re-appear in its new position if you close and re-open it, or change the view to compact and then full again.

Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

This field determines where the compact Watcher window appears.

If this feature is enabled, when you switch from the full view to the compact view, the Watcher window remains in the same place.

If this feature is disabled, when you switch from the full view to the compact view, the Watcher window displays in the position it last occupied.

Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

Enable Docking When Docking is enabled, the Watcher

window jumps to the edge of your screen when the window is dragged close to an edge. This allows you to easily position the window in a corner or to the side of your screen.

Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.) You can also enable and disable this feature by selecting View > Docking.

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Table 7-5: Display Tab Options

Field Description

Always on Top When Always On Top is enabled, the

1xRTT premium service charge (for nonsubscribers)

Watcher window displays in front of all other application windows, even when you position another window over Watcher. This allows you to view connection status indicators while using another application, such as your Internet browser.

Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.) You can also enable and disable this feature by selecting View > Always on Top.

When this feature is enabled, a warning message is displayed any time you initiate an Express Network (1xRTT) connection, to remind you that you may be charged extra for this service. (Depending on your billing plan, your service provider may apply a surcharge to 1xRTT service.)

Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

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Table 7-5: Display Tab Options

Field Description

Data connection lost

IP re-assigned All devices connected to the Internet

When this feature is enabled, a warning message is displayed any time you lose your connection to the CDMA network.

Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

require an IP (Internet Protocol) address. In some technologies, a device is assigned a permanent IP address and that IP address can never be used by another device.

Where DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is used, the network maintains a pool of IP addresses and assigns them to devices as needed. The AirCard 555 uses DHCP so that it is assigned an IP address by the network. This means that the IP address for your AirCard changes each time you connect, and sometimes during a connection.

When this feature is enabled, a warning message is displayed each time the network assigns a new IP address to the AirCard.

Use the check box to enable and disable this feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

SMS Tab

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Table 7-6: SMS Tab Options

Field Description

SMS Messages: Expire

Override Callback #

This feature allows for the automatic deletion of SMS messages that have been in your Inbox for a specified amount of time. The SMS messaging feature is described in detail beginning on page 58.

To disable automatic deletion of messages, select Never from the drop-down menu.

To enable automatic deletion of messages, select a number of days from the dropdown menu.

Only messages that have been “read” (displayed in the Mobile Messenger window) are deleted by this feature. Manual deletion of messages is covered on page 59.

When you send SMS messages, your call back number is automatically attached to the message so that the message recipient will know how to reach you. By default, your call back number is your AirCard phone number. This feature allows you to use a different number than the AirCard phone number.

To set a new call back number:

1. Click the Override Callback # check

box.

2. Click the Change… button to open the

Callback No dialog box.

3. Enter the phone number (digits only)

you want to use as the call back number and click OK.

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To disable the feature (and use the AirCard phone number as your call back number), click

the check box so that it is not

checked.

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Table 7-6: SMS Tab Options

Field Description

Save to Outbox You have the option of retaining, in the

Outbox, a copy of messages that you send. See the “Mobile Messenger” section on page 60 for details about the Outbox.

This feature allows you to specify whether outgoing messages are saved in the Outbox. If you do not want to save any messages, select never. If you want to be prompted as you send each message, as to whether you want to retain a copy, select ask first. If you want to retain a copy of all messages you send, select automatically.

Note that if you do not save messages to the outbox you do not receive status messages, such as the one that notifies you of a successful delivery.

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Note: Locking the AirCard 555 does not prevent you from dialing 911.

Chapter 7: The Watcher Menu Options

Security Tab

Table 7-7: Security Tab Options

Field Description

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Lock modem The Lock Code feature can be used to

Lock Modem Now This field allows you to enable the Lock

prevent others from using your AirCard and your account. When the Lock Code is enabled, you are prompted to enter a code any time Watcher is launched, and if the wrong code is entered, Watcher closes. (This makes it impossible to use the AirCard without knowing the lock code.) By default the lock code is the last four digits of your phone number.

To disable the feature, select never from the drop-down menu. To enable the feature, so that you are prompted for a lock code the next time you launch Watcher, select on power up from the drop-down menu. (The Lock Code feature will then remain enabled until you disable it by selecting never in this field.)

Code feature immediately. (If you select on power up in the previously described dropdown menu, you need to close Watcher before the lock code comes into effect.)

When you click the button, Watcher prompts, “Lock the modem now?”. Click Yes at this prompt to lock the AirCard.

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Table 7-7: Security Tab Options

Field Description

Change Lock Code

Sounds Tab

This button allows you to set a new lock code.

To change the lock code:

1. Tap the Change Lock Code button.

2. Enter your existing lock code (the last

four digits of your phone number unless you have changed it) at the prompt and tap OK.

3. Enter a new lock code and tap OK.

4. Enter your new lock code again for

confirmation and tap OK.

5. Tap OK.

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Table 7-8: Sounds Tab Options

Field Description

Enable This field allows you to enable and disable

all sounds.

When this box is checked, you have the option of individually enabling and disabling the Call Alert, Incoming Call, New SMS Message, and New Voice mail sounds.

When the box is not checked, there are no sounds to notify you of any of these events.

Use the check box to indicate whether you want all sounds enabled or disabled.

Call Alert Depending on your billing plan, you may

have a feature called Call Alert. When you are on a call, this feature notifies you when you have another incoming call. You can then ignore the new incoming call or put your current caller on hold and answer the new call. (Contact your service provider if you require more information about Call Alert.)

If you have Call Alert, you can use this field to select whether a sound is played to notify you of another incoming call when you are already on a voice call.

Use the check box to enable and disable the sound assigned to Call Alert. The play button (with the arrow head on it) allows you to hear the sound assigned to this feature. If you have another sound file you would prefer to play for call alerts, you can use the Browse button to select it. (Any *.wav file can be used.)

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Table 7-8: Sounds Tab Options

Field Description

Incoming Call This field allows you to select whether a

New SMS Message

sound is played when you receive a call.

When this is disabled, the Silent Ringer icon is displayed in the indicator area of the main Watcher window. The only notification you will then have of an incoming voice call is the “Voice Call From …” or “Roam Call From …” message displayed in the call status area.

Use the check box to enable or disable the sound. The play button (with the arrow on it) allows you to hear the sound assigned to incoming calls. If you have another sound file you would prefer to use, you can use the Browse button to select it. (Any *.wav file can be used.)

This field allows you to select whether a sound is played when your receive a new SMS message.

When this is enabled, a sound is played each time a message arrives. When disabled no sound is played.

Use the check box to enable or disable the sound. The play button (with the arrow on it) allows you to hear the sound assigned to new SMS messages. If you have another sound file you would prefer to use, you can use the Browse button to select it. (Any *.wav file can be used.)

New Voice mail This field allows you to select whether a

sound is played when a new voice mail message arrives.

When this is enabled, a sound is played when voice mail arrives. When disabled, no sound is played.

Use the check box to enable or disable the sound. The play button (with the arrow head on it) allows you to hear the sound assigned to new voice mail. If you have another sound file you would prefer to use, you can use the Browse button to select it. (Any *.wav file can be used.)

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Table 7-8: Sounds Tab Options

Field Description

Headset Volume This slider allows you to adjust the volume

of the ear piece on your headset. This affects only the volume of what you hear. (That is, it does not adjust the volume of the speaker.) This performs the same function as the volume controls on the main Watcher window.

To increase the volume, drag the slider to the right. To decrease the volume, drag the slider to the left.

Voice Tab

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Table 7-9: Voice Tab Options

Field Description

Auto-Answer Incoming Calls

This field allows you to enable and disable the Auto-Answer feature, and when enabled to select the number of rings after which a voice call is answered.

To disable the feature, select off from the drop-down menu. To enable the feature, from the drop-down menu select the number of rings after which Watcher automatically answers the call.

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Table 7-9: Voice Tab Options

Field Description

Auto-Retry This field allows you to enable and disable

Any-Key Answer This field allows you to enable and disable

the Auto-Retry feature, and when enabled to select the interval between retrys.

At times when a large number of users are connected to a single base station on the CDMA network, you may be unable to make a network connection on your first attempt. When enabled, Auto-Retry attempts the connection up to five times at the interval you select. When disabled, the AirCard does not retry.

To disable the feature, select off. Otherwise, select the interval at which you want automatic retrys to occur.

the Any-Key Answer feature.

When enabled, you can answer an incoming call by clicking any button on the dial pad except End and Clr. When disabled, you must click the Send key to answer incoming calls.

Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

AutoHyphenation

This field allows you to enable and disable the Auto-Hyphenation feature.

When enabled, a hyphen is automatically inserted after the area code, and between the first three and last four digits of a phone number, as you enter the number. (This has no affect on what is dialed.) When disabled, no hyphen is inserted as you enter a phone number.

Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

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Table 7-9: Voice Tab Options

Field Description

Tone Length DTMF (Dual Tone Multi-Frequency) is the

system used by touch tone phones under which a specific frequency or tone is assigned to each key. There is a standard length for these tones. However, some voice mail systems require a shorter or longer than normal length tone.

This field allows you to set the AirCard to use a shorter or longer tone for systems that require it.

The recommendation is to select normal unless your service provider indicates that a different tone length is required.

Mute When DTMF mute is enabled, there is no

audible tone while the AirCard dials.

Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

Minute Alert This field allows you to enable and disable

the Minute Alert feature.

When enabled, the AirCard beeps at one minute intervals while you are on voice calls. This allows you to keep track of the duration of your call.

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Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

Service Alert The field allows you to enable and disable

the Service Alert feature.

When enabled, the AirCard emits a tone whenever it goes from being out of service to being in service, and whenever it goes from being in service to being out of service.

Use the check box to enable and disable the feature. (The feature is enabled when checked.)

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Table 7-9: Voice Tab Options

Field Description

Voice Mail Change …

Depending on your billing plan, you may have a Voice Mail feature that allows callers to leave you a message when you don’t answer a call. If you have this feature, then you access your voice messages by dialing a number specific to your service provider.

When the AirCard is configured, the phone number your service provider uses for voice mail is automatically set up for you. If this number should change, you can change the number here. To change the number:

1. Click Change…

2. Enter the new phone number in the

window that appears.

3. Click OK.

The Help Menu

The options in the Help menu allow you to:

• Use the on-line help

• Display version information

Help Topics…

The AirCard 555 network card comes with complete online help. To get help on any topic:

Note: Help is available in most Watcher windows by clicking the Help button or by pressing <F1>.

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1. Select Help > Help Topics….

If the topic you want to display has a link on the main window, click the link.

If you do not see the topic you want to display, use the Index,

Find, or Help Topics buttons to display the corresponding

window:

Chapter 7: The Watcher Menu Options

In the Index window, a list of topics is displayed in the lower portion of the window. Search for an index entry by either typing the first few letters in the field at the top, or use the scroll bars to scan the list of entries. When you locate an entry you want to display, click the entry and click

Display.

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In the Help Topics (Contents) window, use the scroll bar to locate a topic of interest. Topics that have a book icon next to them can be expanded by double clicking the icon. Double click a topic to display its window.

In the Find window, select a radio button to generate a database. Then use the word matching options to locate the help section you want to display.

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About Watcher…

The About window displays version information.

The information displayed in this window is:

• The phone number of your account

• The Electronic Serial Number (ESN), a number assigned to

each AirCard 555 by the manufacturer

• The version of Watcher (Software) in use

• The version of the AirCard driver (software that forms the

interface between the AirCard and your operating system) in use

• The version of the PRL (Preferred Roaming List which

specifies the radio frequency channels that the AirCard is permitted to use)

• The hardware version

• The version of firmware (software that resides in the flash

memory of the AirCard) in use

• The version of the bootloader (a component of the

firmware) in use

If you have an Internet connection, you can go to the Sierra Wireless web site by clicking the

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www.sierrawireless.com button

8: The Network Adapter Manager

• Windows 95, 98, NT and Me

• Windows 2000 and XP

• On-Line Help and Version Information

• Closing the Network Adapter Manager

The AirCard 555 wireless network card comes with an application, called the Network Adapter Manager, that is designed to manage multiple network interface cards.

To understand the purpose of the Network Adapter Manager, it is necessary to understand that the AirCard behaves differently for each type of connection. The AirCard 555 behaves as:

• A modem during dial-up data connections

• A phone during voice connections

• A network interface card during Express Network (1xRTT)

connections

It is only while the AirCard 555 is behaving as a network interface card (when there is an active 1xRTT connection) that the Network Adapter Manager is of use.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Note: The Network Adapter Manager launches automatically whenever Windows is started. Unless you manually exit the application, it remains running from the time you start Windows until you shut down. Generally, the status area icon is the only evidence that the Network Adapter Manager is running.

Note: The tooltip, displayed when you position the pointer over the Network Adapter Manager icon in the status area, identifies the primary card.

When you have more than one network interface card inserted, Windows routes the data traffic through only one of the cards. This means that when you have a 1xRTT connection with the AirCard 555, and you have another network interface card (such as an Ethernet or Token Ring LAN card) inserted, data traffic is routed through either the AirCard 555 or the LAN card — not both. The card through which data traffic is being routed is the “primary” card. The Network Adapter Manager shows you which card is primary by displaying an icon in the status area (usually located in the lower right corner of your screen).

Depending on which card is primary, the Network Adapter Manager displays one of these icons.

AirCard 300 is the primary network card

AirCard 400 is the primary network card

AirCard 555 is the primary network card

LAN card is the primary network card

No network card is inserted (This icon is always displayed

in Windows 2000, except during 1xRTT connections.)

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Windows 95, 98, NT and Me

In Windows 95, 98, NT, and Me, the Network Adapter Manager can be used to switch between the AirCard 555 and other network interface cards.

Switching Primary Cards

If you initiate a 1xRTT connection with the AirCard 555 while a LAN card is primary, the Network Adapter Manager automatically makes the AirCard the primary card. That is, making a 1xRTT connection while a LAN card is in use has the effect of rerouting data traffic from the LAN card to the AirCard 555.

Note: Switching between cards while using a network application is NOT recommended. For example, if you use the Network Adapter Manager to switch from using your LAN card to the AirCard while an e-mail application is running, the e-mail application may behave unpredictably. The recommendation is to close network applications, switch cards, and launch the applications again.

The Network Adapter Manager also has a menu through which you can switch primary cards. To switch cards:

1. Right click the Network Adapter Manager icon in the

status area to display the shortcut menu.

2. Select the card you want to use as the primary card from

the menu.

Select Show Options from the menu. In the window that appears, use the radio buttons to select the card you want to use as the primary card and click

OK.

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Chapter 8: The Network Adapter Manager

Windows 2000 and XP

Windows 2000 and XP have more advanced device handling capabilities than Windows 95, 98, NT, and Me. If more than one network card is detected, Windows 2000/XP automatically routes network traffic through the card that provides the highest transmission speed.

Generally a wireline LAN card (such as an Ethernet card) provides faster transmission speed than a wireless card (such as the AirCard). If, for example, you have an AirCard and an Ethernet card installed and active on your laptop, Windows routes network traffic through the Ethernet card because it offers the higher transmission speed. If you then want to take the computer to another location, you can stop the Ethernet card (see below), disconnect the cable to the Ethernet card, and Windows 2000/XP automatically begins routing network traffic through the AirCard.

Since Windows 2000/XP has this enhanced method of handling multiple PC cards, the Network Adapter Manager does not allow you to switch cards from the shortcut menu in this operating system.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

In Windows 2000/XP you can control which card is the primary card by stopping the cards you do not want to use.

To stop a card:

1. Click the PC card icon in the status area.

2. A listing of active cards is displayed.

Windows 2000

Windows XP

3. Click the card you want to stop.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

On-Line Help and Version Information

To display on-line help for the Network Adapter Manager:

1. Right click the Network Adapter Manager status area icon.

2. Select Help from the shortcut menu.

To display version information for the Network Adapter Manager:

1. Right click the Network Adapter Manager status area icon.

2. Select About Network Adapter Manager from the menu.

Closing the Network Adapter Manager

To close the Network Adapter Manager:

1. Right click the Network Adapter Manager status area icon.

2. Select Exit from the shortcut menu.

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9: Troubleshooting Tips

• Problem Causes and Solutions

• Reinstalling the AirCard Driver

• Resolving Resource Conflicts

This section provides assistance in dealing with any problems you may experience with the AirCard 555 wireless network card.

Problem Causes and Suggestions

When properly installed, the AirCard 555 wireless network card is a highly reliable product. Most problems are caused by one of these issues:

• The wrong driver has been installed.

• System resources required by the AirCard are in use by

other devices.

• Network coverage is not available (either because you are

outside the coverage area, or because of an account or network problem).

This section describes how to diagnose and solve these and other problems. If, after reading this section, you are unable to resolve a problem, contact Verizon Wireless technical support at 1-800-922-0204.

Table 9-1: Problem Causes and Suggestions

Problem Possible Causes Suggestions

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Watcher displays this

message in the LCD area of the Watcher window, “Initialization

Failed. Please check the modem and restart Watcher.”

The Watcher splash

screen is frozen.

Rev 3.0 Dec.01 93

a. The AirCard is not completely

inserted into the PC card slot.

b. The wrong driver is installed

for the AirCard.

c. There is a resource conflict.

a. If you are unable to resolve

this problem by restarting your PC, you may have a resouce conflict.

a. Eject and reinsert the AirCard.

b. See the section “Reinstalling the

AirCard Driver” in this chapter.

c. See the section “Resolving Resource

Conflicts” in this chapter.

a. See the section “Resolving Resource

Conflicts” in this chapter.

AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Table 9-1: Problem Causes and Suggestions

Problem Possible Causes Suggestions

The error “read

socket in use” occurs.

Watcher displays the

message, “Not in service”, in the LCD area of the Watcher window and the antenna icon is crossed out.

When attempting a

dial-up data connection, Watcher displays the message, “There is no answer” in the LCD area of the Watcher window.

This error occurs in Windows 98 and Windows Me if you install the AirCard driver after you install Venturi. (The reason for the error is that Venturi installs a software layer that is effectively removed during driver installation.)

Inadequate signal strength may occur for any of these reasons:

a. You are outside the network

coverage area.

b. Your antenna is not attached

or is pointed in the wrong direction.

c. You may be inside a building

or near a structure that is causing radio interference.

a. You have an account

problem or the network is overloaded with calls.

b. The phone number is incor-

rectly set up in the Dial-Up Manager.

Uninstall the Venturi software and reinstall it from the AirCard CD. To uninstall Venturi:

1. Open the Control Panel (by selecting

Start > Settings > Control Panel).

2. Double click the Add/Remove

Programs icon.

3. Select Venturi Personal Client and

click the Add/Remove… button.

4. Confirm that you want to remove the

software by clicking OK.

Install the Venturi software using the instructions on page 33.

a. Ensure your antenna is properly

attached and is perpendicular to the AirCard.

b. Verify that you are within the coverage

area of your service provider. Coverage maps are available from the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com.

c. Try changing your location or re-

orienting your antenna.

a. Determine whether the problem is

due to an AirCard / Dial-Up Manager setup issue or an account / network issue by making a call to a local number. If you are able to complete this call, the problem is likely in the way that the connection is set up. Otherwise, contact your service provider.

b. Verify that the number you want to dial

is set up properly in the Dial-Up Manager. See page 65 for instructions on using the Dial-Up Manager. Verify that the phone number is entered correctly, and that the Use 1 and Use Area Code check boxes are appropriately set. If the area code is required, ensure it is entered correctly.

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Table 9-1: Problem Causes and Suggestions

Problem Possible Causes Suggestions

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting Tips

When attempting to

add a connection to the Dial-Up Manager, Watcher displays the message, “You

already have a connection with the name …. Please choose a different name.”

Watcher interfaces with a Windows component called DialUp Networking so that when you create a connection in Watcher, the connection is concurrently created in Dial-Up Networking. All connections in Dial-Up Networking must have a unique name regardless of whether the connection was created directly in Dial-Up Networking or through another application such as Watcher. The message, “You already have a connection with the name …” indicates that the name has already been assigned to a connection in Watcher or Dial-Up Networking.

Reinstalling the AirCard Driver

Choose a different name for your connection. To see what connections have been created in Dial-Up Networking:

1. Double click My Computer on your

desktop.

2. Double click the Dial-Up Networking

icon (Windows 95/98) or

Click the Dial-Up Networking link (Windows Me) or

Click the Network and Dial-Up Connections link (Windows 2000) or

Click My Network Places > View network connections (Windows XP).

All connection names are displayed in this window. Note that you can create a connection with the same phone number and other variables as an existing connection, provided you give it a different name.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Note: You must have the AirCard installation CD to complete this procedure.

There is an AirCard driver for each supported Windows operating system. Unless the appropriate driver for your version of Windows is installed, you will not be able to establish a network connection with the AirCard. This section provides instructions on verifying that you have the correct AirCard driver installed.

Windows 95/98

To verify that the correct driver is installed:

• Locate the existing driver

• Replace the driver with the Windows 95 or Windows 98

driver from the AirCard installation CD.

Locating the Existing Driver

1. Close all Windows programs and open the Control Panel

by selecting

2. Double click the System icon.

Start > Settings > Contol Panel.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

3. Click the Device Manager tab.

4. Locate the AirCard entries by using the “+” signs to

expand the listings. (I.e. to see all the installed modems, click the “+” sign to the left of

Modems.) The AirCard

should have 3 entries:

1 The AirCard should display under Multifunction adapters

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent.

2 The AirCard should display under

Wireless AirCard 555 Modem

3 The AirCard should display under

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 Adapter.

Modems as Sierra

Network adapters as

If the listings above do not appear, identify the listing for the AirCard by ejecting the AirCard. This causes the driver listing for the AirCard to disappear from the list. Reinsert the AirCard again to cause the driver listing to reappear. You can identify the entries for the AirCard by observing which entries are affected when you eject and reinsert the AirCard.

Replacing the Driver

1. If the installation CD is not already in your CD-ROM

drive, insert it. If the CD start-up menu appears, use the

exit option in the lower left corner of the screen to exit the

menu.

2. Under Network adapters, click the AirCard entry.

3. Click the Properties button.

4. Click the Driver tab.

5. Click the Update Driver… button to launch the Update

Device Driver Wizard.

6. Click Next.

7. Select Display a list of all the drivers in a specific location, so you

can select the one you want

and click Next.

8. Click the Have Disk… button to open the Install From Disk

window.

9. Enter d:\Drivers\Win95 (if you are running Windows 95) or

d:\Drivers\Win98 (if you are running Windows 98) where d

is the drive letter for your CD-ROM drive. Click

OK.

10. Click OK.

11. Click Next.

12. Click Finish.

13. Click No when prompted to restart your PC.

14. In the Control Panel Device Manager window, select the

AirCard listing under

Modem.

15. Repeat steps 3 to 12.

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Chapter 9: Troubleshooting Tips

16. Restart your PC.

The correct driver should then be installed.

Windows 2000

To verify that the correct driver is installed:

• Locate the existing driver

• Update the driver

Locating the Driver

1. Close all Windows programs and open the Control Panel

by selecting

2. If the AirCard is not already inserted into your PC card

slot, insert it.

3. Double click the System icon.

4. Click the Hardware tab.

5. Click the Device Manager… button.

6. Locate the AirCard entries by using the “+” signs to

expand the listings. (I.e. to see all the installed modems, click the “+” sign to the left of should have 3 entries:

1 The AirCard should display under Multifunction adapters

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent.

2 The AirCard should display under

Wireless AirCard 555 Modem

3 The AirCard should display under

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 Adapter.

· If the listings above do not appear, identify the listing for

the AirCard by ejecting the AirCard. This causes the driver listing for the AirCard to disappear from the list. Reinsert the AirCard again to cause the driver listing to reappear. You can identify the entries for the AirCard by observing which entries are affected when you eject and reinsert the AirCard.

Start > Settings > Contol Panel.

Modems.) The AirCard

Modems as Sierra

Network adapters as

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

Updating the Driver

1. If the installation CD is not already in your CD-ROM

drive, insert it. If the CD start-up menu appears, use the

exit option in the lower left corner of the screen to exit the

menu.

2. Right click Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent (or the

AirCard listing under

Multifunction adapters) to display a

pop up menu.

3. Select Properties in the pop up menu to open the Properties

window.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

4. Click the Driver tab.

5. Click the Update Driver… button to open the Upgrade Device

Driver Wizard.

6. Click Next on the first window of the Found New

Hardware Wizard to proceed to the next window.

7. Select Display a list of the known drivers for this device so that I

can choose a specific driver

and Next.

8. Click the Have Disk… button.

9. Enter d:\Drivers\Win2k, where d is the drive letter for your

CD-ROM drive, and click

OK to proceed.

10. Click Next.

11. If the Digital Signature Not Found window displays, click

Yes.

12. Click Finish to proceed. Repeat steps 6 to 12 as prompted.

If you are prompted to restart your PC, click Yes. Otherwise, restart your PC from the Start menu. (You must restart your PC to complete the driver installation.)The correct driver is then installed.

Windows Me

To verify that the correct driver is installed:

• Locate the existing driver

• Replace the driver with the Windows Me driver from the

AirCard installation CD.

Locating the Existing Driver

1. Open the Control Panel by selecting Start > Settings >

Control Panel

2. If the System icon is not in the window, view all Control

Panel options

3. Double click the System icon.

4. Click the Device Manager tab.

5. Locate the AirCard entries by using the “+” signs to

expand the listings. (I.e. to see all the installed modems, click the “+” sign to the left of should have 3 entries:

1 The AirCard should display under Multifunction adapters

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent.

2 The AirCard should display under

Wireless AirCard 555 Modem

3 The AirCard should display under

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 Adapter.

Modems.) The AirCard

Modems as Sierra

Network adapters as

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Chapter 9: Troubleshooting Tips

Replacing the AirCard Driver

1. If the installation CD is not already in your CD-ROM

drive, insert it. If the CD start-up menu appears, use the

exit option in the lower left corner of the screen to exit the

menu.

2. Click to select Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent (or

the AirCard listing under

Multi-function adapters).

3. Click the Properties button.

4. Click the Driver tab.

5. Click the Update Driver button to launch the Update Device

Driver Wizard.

6. Select the Specify the location of the driver (Advanced) radio

button, and click

Next to proceed to the next window.

7. Select the Search for a better driver than the one your device is

using now. (Recommended

boxes so that the checked and

d:\Drivers\WinMe where d is the driver letter for your CD-

Removable Media check box is NOT

Specify a location IS checked. Enter

ROM drive and click

) radio button. Click the check

Next.

8. If a window appears stating that you are already using the

best driver for this device, click the

drivers

radio button and click the View List… button.

Install one of the other

9. Ensure the line selected in the Select Other Drivers

window is drive letter) and click

d:\DRIVERS\WINME\… (where d is your CD-ROM

OK.

10. Click Next.

11. Click Finish and repeat steps 6 to 11 as prompted.

12. If you are prompted to restart you computer, click Yes.

Otherwise restart your PC from the Start menu.

on Notebook PCs

Installation and Use

The correct driver is then installed.

Windows XP

To verify that the correct driver is installed:

• Uninstall the existing driver

• Install the Windows XP driver from the AirCard instal-

lation CD.

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AirCard 555 Network Card User Guide

Uninstalling the Existing Driver

1. Open the Control Panel by selecting Start > Control Panel.

2. If “Pick a category” is displayed, select Switch to Classic

View

3. Double click the System icon.

4. Click the Hardware tab.

5. Click the Device Manager button.

6. Locate the AirCard entries by using the “+” signs to

expand the listings. (I.e. to see all the installed modems, click the “+” sign to the left of

Modems.) The AirCard

should have 3 entries:

1 The AirCard should display under Multifunction adapters

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card Parent.

2 The AirCard should display under

Wireless AirCard 555 Modem

3 The AirCard should display under

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 Adapter.

Modems as Sierra

Network adapters as

Parent

(or the AirCard listing under Multifunction adapters) to

Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 PC Card

display a pop up menu.

7. Select Uninstall in the pop up menu.

8. Confirm that you want to uninstall the device by clicking

OK.

The AirCard listings should be removed.

Installing the Windows XP AirCard Driver

1. If the installation CD is not already in your CD-ROM

drive, insert it. If the CD start-up menu appears, use the

exit option in the lower left corner of the screen to exit the

menu.

2. Eject and reinsert the AirCard to launch the Found New

Hardware Wizard.

3. Select Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) on the

first window of the Found New Hardware Wizard and click

Next to proceed.

4. Select the Search for the best driver in these locations radio

button, and the then enter

Include this location in the search check box,

d:\Drivers\WinXP where d is the drive letter of

100 ‘ 2130142

Sierra Wireless 555 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

A Network Card, a Modem, and a Phone

Package Contents

About This Guide

2: Getting Started

The AirCard 555 Software

Account Activation and Configuration

Care and Maintenance of Your AirCard 555 Wireless Network Card

3: Installation on Notebook PCs

System Requirements

AirCard Software Installation Procedures

Windows 95 Pre-Installation Procedures

Verifying That the PC Card Slots Are Enabled

Verifying That TCP/IP Is Installed

Installation Procedures for Windows 95, 98, Me, and 2000

Installation Procedures for Windows XP and NT

Windows XP Driver Installation

Windows NT Driver Installation

Installing the Modem Driver

Venturi Software Installation

Card Insertion and Removal

Inserting the AirCard

Removing the AirCard

Account Configuration Procedures

Components of the Watcher Window

The Menu Bar

The Minimize, Toggle Full/ Compact, and Close Buttons

Connection Status Area

Call Status Box

Indicator Area

Taskbar Icons

5: Data Connections

Dial-Up Connections

Incoming Data Calls

Quick 2 Net Connections

Express Network Connections

6: Voice Connections

The Dial Pad

The Scratch Pad

Outgoing Calls

Incoming Calls

7: The Watcher Menu Options

The View Menu

Always On Top

Docking

Toggle Full/Compact

The Tools Menu

Mobile Messenger…

Reading SMS Messages: The Inbox

Sending SMS Messages: The Outbox

Exiting the Mobile Messenger Window

Phone Book

Call Log

Dial-Up Manager

KeyGuard

Activation Wizard…

Options…

Use of the Options Window

Network Tab

Display Tab

SMS Tab

Security Tab

Sounds Tab

Voice Tab

The Help Menu

Help Topics…

About Watcher…

8: The Network Adapter Manager

Windows 95, 98, NT and Me

Switching Primary Cards

Windows 2000 and XP

On-Line Help and Version Information

Closing the Network Adapter Manager

9: Troubleshooting Tips

Problem Causes and Suggestions

Reinstalling the AirCard Driver

Windows 95/98