Sierra Wireless MC5727,MC5727V,MC5728V,MC8201,MC8355,MC8700,MC8704,MC8705,MC8801,MC8775,MC8775V,MC8780,MC8781,MC8790,MC8790V,MC8791V,MC8792V,MC8795V Hardware Integration Manual

AirPrime Intelligent Embedded
Modules

Hardware Integration Guide

2130114

Rev 2.02

Preface

Important
Notice

Safety and
Hazards

Due to the nature of wireless communications, transmission and reception of data
can never be guaranteed. Data may be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors) or be
totally lost. Although significant delays or losses of data are rare when wireless
devices such as the Sierra Wireless modem are used in a normal manner with a
well-constructed network, the Sierra Wireless modem should not be used in
situations where failure to transmit or receive data could result in damage of any
kind to the user or any other party, including but not limited to personal injury,
death, or loss of property. Sierra Wireless accepts no responsibility for damages
of any kind resulting from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using
the Sierra Wireless modem, or for failure of the Sierra Wireless modem to
transmit or receive such data.

Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in areas where blasting is in progress,
where explosive atmospheres may be present, near medical equipment, near life
support equipment, or any equipment which may be susceptible to any form of
radio interference. In such areas, the Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE
POWERED OFF. The Sierra Wireless modem can transmit signals that could
interfere with this equipment.

Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in any aircraft, whether the aircraft is
on the ground or in flight. In aircraft, the Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE
POWERED OFF. When operating, the Sierra Wireless modem can transmit
signals that could interfere with various onboard systems.

Limitation of
Liability

Note: Some airlines may permit the use of cellular phones while the aircraft is on the
ground and the door is open. Sierra Wireless modems may be used at this time.

The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the Sierra Wireless
modem while in control of a vehicle. Doing so will detract from the driver or
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.

The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not
represent a commitment on the part of Sierra Wireless. SIERRA WIRELESS AND
ITS AFFILIATES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL
DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, GENERAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL,
PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUE OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS OR REVENUE
ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE ANY SIERRA WIRELESS
PRODUCT, EVEN IF SIERRA WIRELESS AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAS BEEN
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR THEY ARE
FORESEEABLE OR FOR CLAIMS BY ANY THIRD PARTY.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall Sierra Wireless and/or its
affiliates aggregate liability arising under or in connection with the Sierra Wireless
product, regardless of the number of events, occurrences, or claims giving rise to
liability, be in excess of the price paid by the purchaser for the Sierra Wireless
product.

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 3

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Patents This product includes technology licensed from QUALCOMM

Manufactured or sold by Sierra Wireless Inc. or its licensees under one or more
patents licensed from InterDigital Group.

Copyright ©2010 Sierra Wireless. All rights reserved.

Trademarks AirCard

Wireless, AirPrime, AirLink, AirVantage and the Sierra Wireless logo are
trademarks of Sierra Wireless.

Windows
Corporation.

Macintosh
the U.S. and other countries.

QUALCOMM
under license.

Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

®

and Watcher® are registered trademarks of Sierra Wireless. Sierra

®

and Windows Vista® are registered trademarks of Microsoft

®

and Mac OS® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in

®

is a registered trademark of QUALCOMM Incorporated. Used

Contact
Information

Sales Desk: Phone: [phone]

Hours: 8:00
E-mail: [e-mail]

Post: Sierra Wireless

13811 Wireless Way
Richmond, BC
Canada V6V 3A4

AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time

®

3G.

Fax: [phone]
Web: www.sierrawireless.com

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

www.sierrawireless.com

Revision
History

Revision
number

2.02 September 2010 • Created document

4 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Release date Changes

Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

The Universal Development Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Required connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Guide organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Related documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Power Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Overview of operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Power signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Module power states . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Disconnected state . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Off state . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Normal state . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Low power state . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Usage models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

RF Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

RF connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Ground connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Shielding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Antenna and cabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Interference and sensitivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Power supply noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Interference from other wireless devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Device-generated RF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Important notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Safety and hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 5

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Important compliance information for North American users . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

EU regulatory conformity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Brazil ANATEL homologation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Acronyms and Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

6 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

1: Introduction

Sierra Wireless’ AirPrime Intelligent Embedded Modules form the
radio component for the products in which they are embedded.

Ta bl e 1- 1 identifies embedded modules that are available for use on
CDMA and GSM networks.

Table 1-1: CDMA and UMTS AirPrime Intelligent Embedded Modules

1

Device Networks

MC5727
MC5727V
MC5728V

MC8201 GSM GSM, GPRS,

MC8355

MC8700 GSM GSM, GPRS,

MC8704
MC8705
MC8801

CDMA CDMA IS-95

CDMA CDMA 1xRTT,

GSM GSM, GPRS,

GSM GSM, GPRS,

Network

standards

1X
1xEV-DO (IS-

856)

EDGE, UMTS,
HSDPA

EV-DO Rev.A

EDGE, UMTS,
HSDPA,
HSUPA,
HSPA+

EDGE, UMTS,
HSDPA,
HSUPA,
HSPA+

EDGE, UMTS,
HSDPA,
HSUPA,
HSPA+

GPS features

Stand-

alone

gpsOne gpsOne

XTRA

    

  

     (5)

A-GPS Nav2.0 NMEA

sentences

MC8775
MC8775V

MC8780
MC8781
MC8790
MC8790V
MC8791V
MC8792V
MC8795V

GSM GSM, GPRS,

GSM GSM, GPRS,

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 7



EDGE, UMTS,
HSDPA

     (5)

EDGE, UMTS,
HSDPA,
HSUPA

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Note: An understanding of
network technology, and
experience in integrating
hardware components into
electronic equipment is
assumed.

Purpose of this guide

This guide addresses issues that affect the integration of AirPrime embedded
modules into host products, and includes design recommendations for the host
products.

The Universal Development Kit

Sierra Wireless manufactures a Universal Development Kit (UDK) that facilitates
all phases of the integration process.

This kit is a hardware development platform that is designed to support the
AirPrime embedded modules listed in Ta bl e 1- 1 on page 7. It contains the
hardware components that are typically necessary for evaluating and developing
with the module, including:

• Development board

• Cables

• Antennas

• Other accessories

For instructions on setting up the UDK, see PCI Express Mini Card Dev Kit Quick
Start Guide (Document 2130705).

Note: Contact vendors
before choosing your
connectors—the numbers
included here are for
reference only. Choose
connectors that are appro­priate to your design.

Required connectors

When integrating AirPrime embedded modules into your host device, you need
the following connector types:

• RF cables that mate with Hirose U.FL connectors (model
U.FL #CL331-0471-0-10). Modules include one to three connector jacks
depending on individual module support for diversity or GPS functionality.

• Industry-standard mating connector for 52-pin EDGE—some manufacturers
include Tyco, Foxconn, and Molex. For example, the connector used on the
Mini Card Dev Kit board is a Molex 67910-0001.

• Industry-standard USIM connector (MC8xxx only)— the actual connector you
use depends on how your device exposes the USIM socket. For example, the
USIM connector used on the Mini Card Dev Kit board is an ITT CCM03-3518.

Guide organization

This guide includes the following sections:

1.

Introduction (this section)

2. Power Interface on page 13

Describes power control signals used by the module and discusses design
issues related to power supply integration.

3. RF Integration on page 17

Describes antenna connection methods and grounding issues, RF inter­ference and desense issues.

8 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Introduction

4. Host/Module Interfaces on page 21

Describes the USB interface for host/module communication, and the USIM
interface for host/module integration.

5. Regulatory Information on page 21

Describes regulatory approvals and regulatory information requirements.

6. Acronyms and Definitions on page 25

Lists acronyms and definitions used throughout this guide.

7. Index on page 27

Note: The term "host" always refers to the host device.

Related documents

This guide deals specifically with hardware integration issues that are unique to
AirPrime embedded modules.

Ta bl e 1- 2 lists other documents referenced in this guide.

Table 1-2: Related documentation

Document title Description

AT Command Set for User Equipment (UE)
(Release 6) (3GPP TS 27.007)

CDMA 1X Standard
(CDMA 200 Series Release A (2000) ­Document #TIA/EIA/IS-2000 Series,
Release A)

CDMA CnS Reference (Document 2130754) CnS (Control and Status) messages supported by AirPrime CDMA

CDMA AT Command Reference (Document

2130620)

CDMA Extended AT Command Reference
(Document 2130621)

FCC Regulations - Part 15 - Radio Frequency
Devices

IEC-61000-4-2 level 3 Techniques for testing and measuring electrostatic discharge (ESD)

Standard AT commands for GSM/UMTS devices.

Technical requirements for CDMA systems, including details on sleep
cycle index (SCI) values.

embedded modules.
Proprietary, basic AT commands for AirPrime CDMA embedded

modules.
For UMTS-specific commands, see AirCard/AirPrime UMTS devices

Supported AT Command Reference (Document 2130617).

Proprietary AT commands for AirPrime CDMA embedded modules.
For UMTS-specific commands, see AirPrime MC8xxx Embedded

Modules Extended AT Command Reference (Document 2130616).

This section of the FCC Code of Federal Regulations, Title 47 deals with
radio frequency devices, including shielding requirements for embedded
modules.

immunity.

MC5727 Mini Card Product Specification
(Document 2130958)

MC5727V Mini Card Product Specification
(Document 2131023)

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 9

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC5727.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC5727V.

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Table 1-2: Related documentation (Continued)

Document title Description

MC5728V Mini Card Product Specification
(Document 2111350)

MC8201 PCI Express Mini Card Product
Specification (Document 2131362)

MC8700 PCI Express Mini Card Product
Specification (Document 2131202)

AirPrime MC8704 with Audio PCI Express
Mini Card Product Specification (Document

2400059)
AirPrime MC8705 PCI Express Mini Card

Product Specification (Document 2400057)
MC8775 PCI Express Mini Card Product

Specification (Document 2130697)
MC8775V with Audio PCI Express Mini Card

Product Specification (Document 2130700)
MC8780 / MC8781 PCI Express Mini Card

Product Specification (Document 2130782)
MC8790 PCI Express Mini Card Product

Specification (Document 2111279)
MC8790V PCI Express Mini Card Product

Specification (Document 2111280)

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC5728V.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8201.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8700.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8704.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8705.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8775.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8775V.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8780/MC8781.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8790.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8790V.

MC8791V PCI Express Mini Card Product
Specification (Document 2131032)

MC8792V PCI Express Mini Card Product
Specification (Document 2131033)

MC8795V PCI Express Mini Card Product
Specification (Document 2131276)

MC87XX Modem CnS Reference (Document

2130602)
MC87xx Modem CnS Reference (Voice)

(Document 2130817)

AirPrime MC8801 PCI Express Mini Card
Product Specification (Document 2400068)

AirCard/AirPrime UMTS devices Supported
AT Command Reference (Document

2130617)
AirPrime MC8xxx Embedded Modules

Extended AT Command Reference
(Document 2130616)

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8791V.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8792V.

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8795V.

CnS (Control and Status) messages supported by AirPrime UMTS
embedded modules.

Voice-related CnS (Control and Status) messages supported by voice­enabled AirPrime UMTS embedded modules (MC8704, MC8775V,
MC8790V, MC8791V, MC8792V, and MC8795V).

Features, mechanical and electrical specifications, and standards
compliance of the MC8801.

Proprietary, basic AT commands for UMTS AirCard and AirPrime
devices. For CDMA-specific commands, see the CDMA AT Command

Reference (Document 2130620).

Proprietary AT commands for UMTS AirPrime embedded modules. For
CDMA-specific commands, see the CDMA Extended AT Command

Reference (Document 2130621).

10 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Table 1-2: Related documentation (Continued)

Document title Description

Introduction

Mobile Station (MS) Conformance
Specification; Part 4: Subscriber Interface
Module (3GPP TS 11.10-4)

PCI Express Mini Card Dev Kit Quick Start
Guide (Document 2130705)

PCI Express Mini Card Electromechanical
Specification Revision 1.1

Universal Serial Bus Specification, Rev 2.0

SIM testing methods.

Setup and configuration of modules.

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 11

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

12 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

2: Power Interface

Overview of operation

Note: This chapter contains information for both CDMA (MC57xx) and GSM
(MC8xxx) AirPrime embedded modules.
Information that is unique to specific module types is clearly identified.

AirPrime embedded modules are designed to use a 3.3V (nominal)
power supply (3.8V for the MC8201) provided by the host. It is the
host’s responsibility to provide safe and continuous power to the
module at all times; the module does NOT have an independent
power supply, or protection circuits to guard against electrical issues.

The module’s power state is controlled by the host’s assertion/ de­assertion of the W_Disable# signal. The module also monitors its
supply voltage and requests shutdown if the supply is insufficient.

Power signals

The module must be connected to a 3.3V power supply (3.8V for the
MC8201), as described in PCI Express Mini Card Electromechanical
Specification Revision 1.1.

2

The MC8xxx has more power pins than the MC57xx due to higher
peak current requirements for GSM devices.

For detailed pinout and voltage/ current requirements of these
modules, see the Product Specification Document for your AirPrime
embedded module (see Tab le 1- 2 on page 9).

Electrostatic discharge (ESD)

You are responsible for ensuring that the host has adequate ESD
protection on digital circuits and antenna ports as described by the
following specifications:

• (Operational) RF port (antenna launch and RF connector): IEC­61000-4-2—Level (Electrostatic Discharge Immunity Test)

• (Non-operational) Host connector interface: JESD22-A114-B +/-

1kV Human Body Model and JESD22-C101 +/- 125 V Charged

Device Model

• MC5728V only: (Non-operational) Host connector interface:

JESD22-A114-B +/ - 125V Human Body Model and
JESD22-C101 +/- 100 V Charged Device Model

MC5728V has placeholders for additional ESD devices, for
cases where the device must, per customer requirements, meet
the higher Human Body Model (+/ -1kV) ESD rating.

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 13

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

This guide provides specific recommendations where needed, however, the level
of protection required depends on your application.

Note: ESD protection is highly recommended for the USIM connector at the point where
the contacts are exposed, and for any other signals from the host interface that would be
subjected to ESD by the user of the product.

Module power states

Note: The module unit
defaults to the Normal
state when VCC is first
applied in the absence of
W_Disable# control.

Note: The difference
between the Discon­nected and Off states is
that, in the Off state, the
module is still connected to
the power source and
draws minimal current.

The module has four power states:

• Disconnected
No power to the module.

• Off
Power to the module, but the module is powered off.

• Normal
The module is active. Several modes are possible (Receive, Transmit, Sleep,
Shutdown).

• Low power (“airplane mode”)
The module is active, but RF is disabled.

State machines are implemented in the module to monitor the power supply and
operating temperature.

Disconnected state

This state occurs when there is no power to the module—the host power source
is disconnected from the module and all voltages associated with the module are
at 0 V.

Whether the host device is also powered off depends on the power rail design:

• If the connection between the power rail and the module is controlled by the
host, the host can stay powered on and cut the power to put the module into
the disconnected state.

• If the power rail is shared between the host device and the module, the host
is powered off when the module is powered off.

Off state

In this state, the host is powered up and the module is powered down (but still
connected to the power source).

The host keeps the module powered off by driving the W_Disable# signal low. In
this state, the module draws minimal current.

14 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Power Interface

Note: This is the default
state when VCC is first
applied in the absence of

W_Disable# control.

Normal state

This is the active state of the module. In this state:

• The module is fully powered.

• The module is capable of placing/receiving calls or establishing data connec-

tions on the wireless network.

• The USB interface is fully active.

Low power state

In this state (also called “airplane mode”), RF (both Rx and Tx) is disabled in the
module, but the USB interface is still active.

Usage models

Usage models can be used to calculate expected current consumption. A sample
usage model is provided in Tab le 2- 1 ,

Table 2-1: Power consumption of sample application

Used by a field

worker (data only)

Upload (module Tx) 1000 kB/day 40 kB/h

Used for remote

data logging

Download (module Rx) 500 kB/day 100 kB/day
Coverage/data rate 1X/80 kbps IS-95/14.4 kbps
Hours of operation 8 hrs/day (off 16 hrs/day) 24/day
Total power consumed

over 24 hours

This example model applies to a battery-operated device. In practice, because
the module is isolated from the battery (the host device manages the power
source), the mAh ratings depend on the module’s supply efficiency.

The module automatically enters slotted sleep mode when there is no
transmission or reception occurring (SCI = 2).

Transmit power is assumed to be +3 dBm.

60 mAh 200 mAh

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 15

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

16 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

3: RF Integration

AirPrime embedded modules operate on the following frequencies:.

Table 3-1: RF Parameters (AirPrime UMTS embedded modules)

3

Frequencies

(MHz)

GSM 850
Tx: 824–849
Rx: 869–894

EGSM_900
Tx: 880–915
Rx: 925–960

DCS 1800
Tx: 1710–1785
Rx: 1805–1880

PCS 1900
Tx: 1850–1910
Rx: 1930–1990

Band Ib

(UMTS 2100)
Tx: 1920–1980
Rx: 2110–2170

Band II

(UMTS 1900)
Tx: 1850–1910
Rx: 1930–1990

Band V

(UMTS 850)
Tx: 824–849
Rx: 869–894

Band VIII

(UMTS 900)
Tx: 880–915
Rx: 925–960

a

a

a

a

b

b,c

b

AirPrime UMTS embedded module (MC8xxx)

8201 8355 8700 8704 8705 8775 8775V 8777V 8780 8781 8790 9890V 8791V 8792V 8795V 8801

               

               

               

               

               

               

               

              

CDMA2000 BC0
Tx: 824–849
Rx: 869–894

CDMA2000 BC1
Tx: 1850–1910
Rx: 1930–1990

CDMA2000 BC6
Tx: 1920–1980
Rx: 2110–2170

GPS

1575.42

a. (2%) CS
b. (0.1%) 12.2 kbps
c. Band VI is included as a subset of Band V.







              

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 17

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

RF connection

When attaching an antenna to the module:

Note: To disconnect the
antenna, make sure you
use the Hirose U.FL
connector removal tool
(P/N UFL-LP-N-2(01)) to
prevent damage to the
module or coaxial cable
assembly.

• Use a Hirose U.FL connector (model U.FL #CL331-0471-0-10) to attach an
antenna to a connection point on the module.

• Match coaxial connections between the module and the antenna to 50 

• Minimize RF cable losses to the antenna; the recommended maximum cable

loss for antenna cabling is 0.5 dB.

Ground connection

When connecting the module to system ground:

• Prevent noise leakage by establishing a very good ground connection to the
module through the host connector.

• Connect to system ground using the two mounting holes at the top of the
module.

• Minimize ground noise leakage into the RF.
Depending on the host board design, noise could potentially be coupled to
the module from the host board. This is mainly an issue for host designs that
have signals traveling along the length of the module, or circuitry operating at
both ends of the module interconnects.

Shielding

The module is fully shielded to protect against EMI and to ensure compliance with
FCC Part 15 - “Radio Frequency Devices” (or equivalent regulations in other
jurisdictions).

Note: The module shields must NOT be removed.

Note: Values in this guide
are taken from the appro­priate product specifi­cation documents (PSDs)
(listed in Related

documents on page9)—in

the case of a discrepancy
between this document
and the relevant PSD, use
the value listed in the PSD.

18 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Antenna and cabling

When selecting the antenna and cable, it is critical to RF performance to match
antenna gain and cable loss.

Choosing the correct antenna and cabling

Consider the following points for proper matching of antennas and cabling:

• The antenna (and associated circuitry) should have a nominal impedance of
50  with a return loss of better than 10 dB across each frequency band of
operation.

• The system gain value affects both radiated power and regulatory (FCC, IC,
CE, etc.) test results.

RF Integration

Developing custom antennas

Consider the following points when developing custom-designed antennas:

• A skilled RF engineer should do the development to ensure that the RF

performance is maintained.

• Identify the bands that need to be supported.

Determining the antenna’s location

Consider the following points when deciding where to put the antenna:

• Antenna location may affect RF performance. Although the module is

shielded to prevent interference in most applications, the placement of the
antenna is still very important —if the host device is insufficiently shielded,
high levels of broadband or spurious noise can degrade the module’s perfor­mance.

• Connecting cables between the module and the antenna must have 50 

impedance. If the impedance of the module is mismatched, RF performance
is reduced significantly.

• Antenna cables should be routed, if possible, away from noise sources

(switching power supplies, LCD assemblies, etc.). If the cables are near the
noise sources, the noise may be coupled into the RF cable and into the
antenna.

Note: These modules are
based on ZIF (Zero Inter­mediate Frequency)
technologies. When
performing EMC (Electro­magnetic Compatibility)
tests, there are no IF
(Intermediate Frequency)
components from the
module to consider.

Note: Values in this guide
are taken from the appro­priate product specifi­cation documents (PSDs)
(listed in Related

documents on page9)—in

the case of a discrepancy
between this document
and the relevant PSD, use
the value listed in the PSD.

Interference and sensitivity

Several sources of interference can affect the RF performance of the module
(RF desense). Common sources include power supply noise and device­generated RF.

RF desense can be addressed through a combination of mitigation techniques
and radiated sensitivity measurement.

Power supply noise

Noise in the power supply can lead to noise in the RF signal.

The power supply ripple limit for the module is no more than 200 mVp-p 1 Hz to
100 kHz. This limit includes voltage ripple due to transmitter burst activity.

Interference from other wireless devices

Wireless devices operating inside the host device can cause interference that
affects the module.

To determine the most suitable locations for antennas on your host device,
evaluate each wireless device’s radio system, considering the following:

• Any harmonics, sub-harmonics, or cross-products of signals generated by

wireless devices that fall in the module’s Rx range may cause spurious
response, resulting in decreased Rx performance.

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 19

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

• The Tx power and corresponding broadband noise of other wireless devices
may overload or increase the noise floor of the module’s receiver, resulting in
Rx desense.

The severity of this interference depends on the closeness of the other antennas
to the module’s antenna. To determine suitable locations for each wireless
device’s antenna, thoroughly evaluate your host device’s design.

Device-generated RF

Note: The module can
cause interference with
other devices such as
hearing aids and on-board
speakers.

Wireless devices such as
AirPrime embedded
modules transmit in bursts
(pulse transients) for set
durations (RF burst
frequencies). Hearing aids
and speakers convert
these burst frequencies
into audible frequencies,
resulting in audible noise.

All electronic computing devices generate RF interference that can negatively
affect the receive sensitivity of the module.

The proximity of host electronics to the antenna in wireless devices can contribute
to decreased Rx performance. Components that are most likely to cause this
include:

• Microprocessor and memory

• Display panel and display drivers

• Switching-mode power supplies

These and other high-speed devices (in particular, the processor) can decrease
Rx performance because they run at frequencies of tens of MHz. The rapid rise
and fall of these clock signals generates higher-order harmonics that often fall
within the operating frequency band of the module, affecting the module’s receive
sensitivity.

Example

On a sub-system running at 40 MHz, the 22nd harmonic falls at 880 MHz, which
is within the cellular receive frequency band.

Note: In practice, there are usually numerous interfering frequencies and harmonics. The
net effect can be a series of desensitized receive channels.

20 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

A: Regulatory Information

Important notice

Because of the nature of wireless communications, transmission and
reception of data can never be guaranteed. Data may be delayed,
corrupted (i.e., have errors) or be totally lost. Although significant
delays or losses of data are rare when wireless devices such as the
Sierra Wireless modem are used in a normal manner with a well­constructed network, the Sierra Wireless modem should not be used
in situations where failure to transmit or receive data could result in
damage of any kind to the user or any other party, including but not
limited to personal injury, death, or loss of property. Sierra Wireless
and its affiliates accept no responsibility for damages of any kind
resulting from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using
the Sierra Wireless modem, or for failure of the Sierra Wireless
modem to transmit or receive such data.

Safety and hazards

Do not operate your MC57xx/MC8xxx modem:

• In areas where blasting is in progress

• Where explosive atmospheres may be present including

refuelling points, fuel depots, and chemical plants

• Near medical equipment, life support equipment, or any
equipment which may be susceptible to any form of radio inter­ference. In such areas, the MC57xx/MC8xxx modem MUST BE
POWERED OFF. Otherwise, the MC57xx/MC8xxx modem can
transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment.

A

In an aircraft, the MC57xx/ MC8xxx modem MUST BE POWERED
OFF. Otherwise, the MC57xx /MC8xxx modem can transmit signals

that could interfere with various onboard systems and may be
dangerous to the operation of the aircraft or disrupt the cellular
network. Use of a cellular phone in an aircraft is illegal in some
jurisdictions. Failure to observe this instruction may lead to
suspension or denial of cellular telephone services to the offender, or
legal action or both.

Some airlines may permit the use of cellular phones while the aircraft
is on the ground and the door is open. The MC57xx/ MC8xxx modem
may be used normally at this time.

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 21

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Important compliance information for
North American users

The MC57xx/MC8xxx modem has been granted modular approval for mobile
applications. Integrators may use the MC57xx/MC8xxx modem in their final
products without additional FCC/ IC (Industry Canada) certification if they meet
the following conditions. Otherwise, additional FCC/ IC approvals must be
obtained.

1. At least 20 cm separation distance between the antenna and the user’s body
must be maintained at all times.

2. To comply with FCC / IC regulations limiting both maximum RF output power
and human exposure to RF radiation, the maximum antenna gain including
cable loss in a mobile-only exposure condition must not exceed 5 dBi in the
cellular band (4.5dBi for MC8801) and 4 dBi in the PCS band (3.4dBi for
MC8801).

3. The MC57xx/ MC8xxx modem and its antenna must not be co-located or
operating in conjunction with any other transmitter or antenna within a host
device.

4. A label must be affixed to the outside of the end product into which the
MC57xx/MC8xxx modem is incorporated, with a statement similar to the
following:

· For MC5727/ MC5727V:

This device contains FCC ID: N7N-MC5727
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC5727

· For MC5728V:

This device contains FCC ID: N7N-MC5728
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC5728

· For MC8201:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8201
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8201

· For MC8355:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8355
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8355

· For MC8700:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8700
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8700

· For MC8704:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8704
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8704

· For MC8705:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8705
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8705

· For MC8775/ MC8775V:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8775
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8775

· For MC8780:

This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8780

22 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Regulatory Information

· For MC8781:
This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8781
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8781

· For MC8790/ MC8790V:
This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8790
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8790

· For MC8792V:
This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8792
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8792

· For MC8795V:
This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8795
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8795

· For MC8801:
This device contains FCC ID: N7NMC8801
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-MC8801

5. A user manual with the end product must clearly indicate the operating

requirements and conditions that must be observed to ensure compliance
with current FCC / IC RF exposure guidelines.

The end product with an embedded MC57xx/MC8xxx modem may also need to
pass the FCC Part 15 unintentional emission testing requirements and be
properly authorized per FCC Part 15.

Note: If this module is intended for use in a portable device, you are responsible
for separate approval to satisfy the SAR requirements of FCC Part 2.1093 and IC
RSS-102.

EU regulatory conformity

Sierra Wireless hereby declares that the MC8700, MC8704, MC8705, MC8775,
MC8775V, MC8780, MC8790, MC8790V, MC8791V, MC8792V, MC8795V, and
MC8801 modems conform with all essential requirements of Directive 1999/ 5/

EC.

MC8355: TBD

MC8775, MC8775V, MC8780, MC8790, MC8790V, MC8791V, MC8792V:

MC8795V:

MC8700, MC8704, MC8705, MC8801:

The Declaration of Conformity made under Directive 1999/ 5 /EC is available for
viewing at the following location in the EU community:

Sierra Wireless (UK), Limited
Lakeside House
1 Furzeground Way, Stockley Park East

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 23

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Uxbridge, Middlesex
UB11 1BD
England

Brazil ANATEL homologation

(MC8790 somente) Este produto está homologado pela ANATEL, de acordo com
os procedimentos regulamentados pela Resolução 242/2000, e atende aos
requisitos técnicos aplicados.

Para maiores informações, consulte o site da ANATEL www.anatel.gov.br.

24 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

B: Acronyms and Definitions

.

Table B-1: Acronyms and definitions

Acronym or term Definition

AGC Automatic Gain Control
BER Bit Error Rate - a measure of receive sensitivity
BLER Block Error Rate

B

Call Box Base Station Simulator - Agilent E8285A or 8960, Rohde & Schwarz

CDMA Code Division Multiple Access
dB Decibel = 10 x log10 (P1/P2)

dBm Decibels, relative to 1 mW - Decibel(mW) = 10 x log10 (Pwr (mW)/1mW)
DUT Device Under Test
EDGE Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution
EM Embedded Module
ESD ElectroStatic Discharge
FER Frame Error Rate - a measure of receive sensitivity
GPRS General Packet Radio Services
GPS Global Positioning System
GSM Global System for Mobile communications
Hz Hertz = 1 cycle/second

CMU200

P1 is calculated power; P2 is reference power

Decibel = 20 x log

V1 is calculated voltage, V2 is reference voltage

(V1/V2)

10

inrush current Peak current drawn when a device is connected or powered on
IS-2000 3G radio standards for voice and data (CDMA only)
IS-95 2G radio standards targeted for voice (cdmaONE)
LDO Low Drop Out - refers to linear regulator

MC5727/MC5727V/

MC5728V
MC57xx Any of the following CDMA AirPrime embedded modules: MC5727/

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 25

Sierra Wireless AirPrime embedded modules used on CDMA networks

MC5727V/MC5728V

AirPrime Embedded Module Hardware Integration Guide

Table B-1: Acronyms and definitions

Acronym or term Definition

MC8201/MC8700/

MC8704/MC8705/
MC8775 / MC8775V /

MC8780/MC8781/
MC8790/MC8790V/
MC8791V/MC8792V/
MC8795V/MC8801

MC8xxx Any of the following GSM/UMTS AirPrime embedded modules: MC8201/

MHz MegaHertz = 10E6 Hertz (Hertz = 1 cycle/second)
MIO Module Input/Output
MPE Maximum Permissible Exposure—the level of radiation to which a person

OTA Over-The-Air or Radiated through the antenna
PCS Personal Communication System - PCS spans the 1.9 GHz radio spectrum
RF Radio Frequency
RMS Root Mean Square
SA Selective Availability
Sensitivity (Audio) Measure of lowest power signal that the receiver can measure

Sierra Wireless AirPrime embedded modules used on GSM/UMTS
networks

MC8700/MC8704/MC8705/MC8775/MC8775V/MC8780/MC8781/
MC8790/MC8790V/MC8791V/MC8792V/MC8795V/MC8801

may be exposed without hazardous effect or adverse biological changes

Sensitivity (RF) Measure of lowest power signal at the receiver input that can provide a

SIM Subscriber Identity Module
SNR Signal to Noise Ratio
SOF Start of Frame - a USB function
UART Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter
UDK Universal Development Kit (PCI Express Mini Card Dev Kit)
UMTS Universal Mobile T e lecommunications System
USB Universal Serial Bus
USIM Universal Subscriber Identity Module
VCC Supply voltage (3.8 V for MC8201, 3.3 V for all others)
WCDMA Wideband Code Division Multiple Access—In this document, the term

XIM In this document, XIM is used as part of the contact identifiers for the USIM

prescribed BER/BLER/SNR value at the receiver output.

“UMTS” is used instead of “WCDMA”.

interface (XIM_VCC, XIM_CLK, etc.).

26 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Index

Numerics

1X

CDMA Standard, 9

A

acronyms and definitions, 25– 26
antenna

connection considerations, 18
custom, considerations, 19
limit, matching coaxial connections, 18
location, considerations, 19
matching, considerations, 18
maximum cable loss, 18

AT commands

3GPP specification, details, 9
standard, MC57xx (reference document), 9
standard, MC8xxx (reference document), 10

AT commands, extended

MC57xx, reference, 9
MC8xxx, reference, 10

AT commands, standard

MC57xx, reference, 9
MC8xxx, reference, 10

C

cable loss

antenna, maximum, 18

CDMA

1X Standard, 9

CnS

MC57xx reference, 9
MC87xx reference, 10
voice reference, 10

connection

grounding, 18

connectors, required

EDGE mating (52-pin), 8
host-module, 8
RF, Hirose, 8
USIM, 8

current

consumption, usage models, 15

D

desense. See RF
disconnected, module power state, 14

E

EDGE connector, manufacturers, 8

electrostatic discharge. See ESD
ESD

protection requirements, 13– 14
testing techniques document (IEC-61000-4-2), 9

F

FCC

regulations, relevant section, 9

G

grounding

connection considerations, 18

I

impedance

module-antenna, 19

interference

device generated, 20
power supply noise, 19
wireless devices, 19

L

low power, module power state, 15

M

MC5727

AT reference (extended), 9
AT reference (standard), 9
CnS reference, 9
networks supported, 7
product specification, 9

MC5727V

AT reference (extended), 9
AT reference (standard), 9
CnS reference, 9
networks supported, 7
product specification, 9

MC5728V

AT reference (extended), 9
AT reference (standard), 9
CnS reference, 9
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8201

networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8355

networks supported, 7

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 27

Document SubTitle

MC8700

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8704

product specification, 10

MC8705

product specification, 10

MC8775

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8775V

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
CnS voice reference, and MC87xxV, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8780

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8781

AT reference (extended),
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8790

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8790V

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
CnS voice reference, and MC87xxV, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8791V

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
CnS voice reference, and MC87xxV, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

10

MC8792V

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx,
CnS voice reference, and MC87xxV, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8795V

AT reference (extended), 10
AT reference (standard), 10
CnS reference, and MC87xx, 10
CnS voice reference, and MC87xxV, 10
networks supported, 7
product specification, 10

MC8801

product specification, 10

Mini Card

Dev Kit Quick Start Guide, 11
PCI Express Specification, 11
See also MC5727, MC5727V, MC5728V, MC8201,

MC8700, MC8775, MC8775V, MC8780,
MC8781, MC8790, MC8790V, MC8791V,
MC8792V, MC8795V

module

power states, 14– 15

10

N

noise

leakage, minimizing, 18
RF interference, power supply, 19

normal, module power state, 15

O

off, module power state, 14

P

PCI Express

Mini Card specification, 11

power

default state, 15
disconnected, characteristics, 14
normal, characteristics, 15
off, characteristics, 14
required supply voltage, 13
signals, overview, 13
state, disconnected, 14
state, low power, 15
state, normal, 15
state, off, 14
states, module, 14– 15
supply, RF interference, 19

supply, ripple limit, 19
power interface, 13– 15
product specification (PSD), 10
PSD (Product Specification Document), 10

28 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114

Index

R

regulatory information, 21– 24

Brazil, 24
EU, 23
FCC, 22
limitation of liability, 21
safety and hazards, 21

RF

antenna cable loss, maximum, 18
antenna connection, considerations, 18
cable type, required, 8
desense

device-generated, 20
integration, 17– 20
interference

other devices, 20

power supply, 19

wireless devices, 19

S

shielding

module, compliance, 18

SIM

testing methods, MS conformance specification, 11
See also USIM

T

testing

ESD immunity, techniques document (IEC-61000-4-2),

9

U

UDK (Universal Development Kit)

components, included, 8

Universal Development Kit (UDK)

components, included, 8
Universal Serial Bus. See USB.
usage models

current consumption, 15
USB

specification, 11
USIM

connector type, required, 8

W

W_Disable#

Normal state, 15

off state, 14

Z

ZIF (Zero Intermediate Frequency), 19

Rev 2.02 Sep.10 Proprietary and Confidential 29

Document SubTitle

30 Proprietary and Confidential 2130114