Sierra Wireless R1902G User Manual

ink

ommunications

User Guide

Version 1.08

AirLink Communications, Inc.

September 29, 2003

Please send comments to:

email: pubs@AirLink.com

Fax: 510-226-4299 Phone: 510-226-4200

Post: AirLink Communications, Inc.

Attention: Technical Publications Dept. 472 Kato Terrace Fremont, CA 94539

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

Safety and Hazards

Do not operate the AirLink Communications 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 AirLink Communications modem MUST BE POWERED OFF. The AirLink Communications modem can transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment. Do not operate the AirLink Communications modem in any aircraft, whether the aircraft is on the ground or in flight. In aircraft, the AirLink Communications modem MUST BE POWERED OFF. When operating, the AirLink Communications modem can transmit signals that could interfere with various onboard systems. The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the AirLink Communications 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.

Limitation of Liability

The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of AirLink Communications, Inc. AIRLINK COMMUNICATIONS, INC. SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS 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 AIRLINK COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PRODUCT, EVEN IF AIRLINK COMMUNICATIONS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR THEY ARE FORESEEABLE OR FOR CLAIMS BY ANY THIRD PARTY.

Raven GPRS User Guide Table of Contents

1. Introduction ..................................................................................... 5

1.1 Raven Product Overview ............................................................................... 6

2. Network Connection ...................................................................... 7

2.1 Internet (TCP/IP) Connections via GPRS .................................................... 7

2.2 Data Connections........................................................................................... 7

3. Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration ................................ 9

3.1 Local Configuration ....................................................................................... 9

3.2 Modem Activation........................................................................................ 11

3.2.1 SIM Check 12

3.2.2 PDP Context 12

3.3 Remote Configuration.................................................................................. 13

4. Windows Dial-Up Networking Setup ........................................ 14

4.1 Add Windows Modem Driver ...................................................................... 14

4.1.1 Setup Modem 14

4.1.2 Add Modem Driver 14

4.2 Windows Dial-Up Networking (PPP) Configuration ................................. 17

4.3 Making a GPRS Data Connection............................................................... 25

5. Dynamic IP Addresses ................................................................. 26

5.1 IPManager and Dynamic DNS Updates..................................................... 27

5.2 Using Names in the Modem, Domain Name Resolving............................. 27

6. Serial Communication Modes .................................................... 29

6.1 AT Mode ....................................................................................................... 30

6.2 PPP Mode ..................................................................................................... 30

6.3 PassThru Mode ............................................................................................ 31

6.4 UDP PAD Mode ........................................................................................... 31

6.4.1 UDP Auto Answer 32

6.4.2 Reliable UDP 32

6.4.3 Multicast UDP [Raven Only Feature] 33

6.5 TCP PAD Mode ............................................................................................ 33

6.6 TCP Auto Answer ........................................................................................ 34

6.7 Hybrid Modes............................................................................................... 34

6.8 SLIP Mode.................................................................................................... 35

6.9 Modbus/BSAP Configuration [Raven Only Feature] ................................. 35

6.9.1 Configuring the Polling Host Application Raven 35

6.9.2 Configuring the Remote Ravens 36

7. Using AT Commands .................................................................... 38

7.1 GPRS Specific AT Commands..................................................................... 39

7.2 Raven and PinPoint AT Command Reference............................................ 41

8. Raven Installation......................................................................... 52

8.1 Mounting the Raven .................................................................................... 52

8.2 Connecting the antenna .............................................................................. 54

8.3 Connecting the serial cable ......................................................................... 54

8.4 Grounding the Raven Case ......................................................................... 54

8.5 Connecting the power cable......................................................................... 54

9. Raven GPRS Technical Specifications..................................... 57

9.1 Physical Characteristics .............................................................................. 57

9.2 Power Specifications .................................................................................... 57

9.3 Environmental ............................................................................................. 57

9.4 RF Features ................................................................................................. 57

9.5 Status LED Display..................................................................................... 58

9.6 Application Interface Features ................................................................... 58

1. Introduction

The GSM/GPRS wireless network combines the world’s leading wireless standard— the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM)—with fast, packet-switched access to data networks such as the Internet. Providing this fast access is the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS).

The AirLink GPRS modems are designed to operate in GSM/GPRS networks. Two data services are available in the GSM/GPRS networks: GPRS, a packet switched connection, and SMS, a short message service..

GPRS

GPRS is an IP-based service that offers fast, packet-switched access to data networks such as the Internet. It is a mobile service that improves the peak-time capacity of a GSM network. GPRS gives packet-switched access over GSM to external data networks with high peak transfer capacity. The main objective of GPRS is to offer access to standard data networks such as TCP/IP. GPRS is a non-voice service designed specifically for transmitting data. It breaks data messages into separate packets for transmission from the mobile device and sends them to destinations in an external network.

Most any Internet-based application or service will run on GPRS. GPRS offers peak throughputs of 40 Kbps (53.6 Kbps raw) Because GPRS capacity is shared among active users in the same coverage area, actual throughputs may vary.

Raven GPRS

User Guide

GPRS

Network

Internet

Raven Product Overview Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

1.1 Raven Product Overview

The AirLink Raven GPRS is a rugged, full duplex GPRS modem that provides wireless transport capabilities for fixed and mobile applications. GPRS is an efficient and secure wireless technology that works well for fixed or mobile applications.

The Raven's rugged form factor is ideal for industrial and commercial applications that require real-time communications. The Raven provides wireless data communications for a variety of applications, such as telemetry, public safety, SCADA, traffic control, traffic metering, transit arrival systems and more.

Front of Raven

Back of Raven

AirLink Communications, Inc. Page 6 September 29, 2003

Network Connection Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

2. Network Connection

The AirLink GPRS modems are capable of providing network connections for GPRS and SMS data.

2.1 Internet (TCP/IP) Connections via GPRS

When using a Raven or PinPoint GPRS modem, remote access to is done via a PPP (TCP/IP) connection to the GPRS network. The GPRS carrier actually provides Internet connectivity, and, therefore, it becomes the ISP for that session. Applications such as web browsing, email, FTP, etc., should work as they would normally.

Internet

GSM GPRS

Network

NOTE: Connections to Internet are provided by carrier.

Corporate network connections are unique and not provided as part of service.

2.2 Data Connections

When the Raven is powered on, it automatically searches for GPRS service and establishes a PPP link between the Raven and the network. The Raven obtains its public or private IP and is ready to communicate.

Data Acquisition App

Corporate

LAN

PPP

GSM GPRS

Network

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Network Connection Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

If the host establishes a PPP link to the Raven, a second PPP link is created between the Raven and the host. IP packets can then be sent to and received from the GPRS network.

PPP

GSM GPRS

Network

If the host device is to send and receive data via the Raven or PinPoint, then the modem can be configured to use either one of the UDP or TCP packet assembly/disassembly modes.

Data

UDP or

TCP

PPP

GSM GPRS

Network

Internet

GSM

GPRS

Network

Corporate

LAN

ATS

AirLink Communications, Inc. Page 8 September 29, 2003

Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

3. Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration

Configuration of the Raven and PinPoint GPRS modem is done using a terminal emulation program like HyperTerminal in Windows.

IMPORTANT NOTE: the GPRS modems from a Windows computer. A future version of Wireless ACE will be available with this functionality.

However, remote configuration of the modem is possible with a telnet application. (See Section 3.3.)

3.1 Local Configuration

1. Attach the antennas, DB-9 cable and power to the back of the modem.

2. Power on the modem, and ensure the On light is lit.

3. Attach the modem to the back of the PC with the provided DB-9 cable.

(Note, if you did not order a cable with your modem, you need a straight-thru RS-232 cable to attach to the modem.)

4. Select Start→ Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

HyperTerminal.

At this time Wireless ACE cannot be used to configure

5. Enter the name of the connection and select OK.

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Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

6. For "Connect using" select the COM port that the modem is on (do not select a modem driver), then select OK.

7. Select 115200 for the "Bits per second." Ensure Data Bits: 8, Parity: None, Stop bits: 1 and Flow control: Hardware. Then select OK.

(These are the factory default settings for a GPRS modem. If you get garbled characters when typing AT commands, change these settings and reconnect to the modem. For example, change the baud rate to 57,600 bits per second and connect again, etc.)

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Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

8. Type AT followed by [Enter]. You should receive an "OK" in response.

9. Type ATI1 followed by [Enter]. This displays the modem firmware version and you should also see "AirLink Communications, Inc." in it which ensures you are talking to the AirLink modem. (If not, try changing COM ports.)

Other AT commands may now be issued to the modem. See Section Using AT

Commands for a list of AT commands

3.2 Modem Activation

The GPRS modem is usually already set up to register online with a phone number, etc. pre-configured into it (by AirLink Communications, Inc.). When a modem is registered on the network and working, the lights will look like the following:

AirL

ommunications

in k

Note that the RSSI light may be flashing or solid, showing the strength of the signal. Also the Tx/Rx (transmit/receive) light will flash as data is transferred to and from the modem on the network.

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Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

If your modem lights look like the above when the modem is powered on, you do NOT need to configure the modem and may skip this section.

If, however, the Reg light is not lit, your modem may need a SIM, or you may need to select the PDP context.

• Connect up to configure the modem as in Section 3.1.

• If you are unfamiliar with using AT commands, please review Section Using

AT Commands first.

3.2.1 SIM Check

You can check if a SIM [Subscriber Identity Module] is in the modem with the AT+CIMI? command. If a SIM is in the modem, you will see a response like the following:

at+cimi?

310380006255650

The number is an abbreviated form of the IMSI [International Mobile Subscriber Identity] which is unique to each SIM.

If there is no SIM, there will be a blank response like the following:

at+cimi?

3.2.2 PDP Context

Check if the PDP context is correct with the command:

AT+CGDCONT?

You should get a response like:

at+cgdcont?

1,IP,proxy

If you get a blank response, you need to set the PDP context. You need the APN [Access Point Name] which you can obtain from the carrier rep or from whomever you received the account. Most companies will be using a custom APN that allows them to communicate with all

To set the PDP context:

at+cgdcont=1,”IP”,”apn_obtained_from_carrier”

at&w

You only need to do this once. Henceforth, the modem will use this setting to attach to the GPRS network.

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Raven and PinPoint GPRS Configuration Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

3.3 Remote Configuration

Once the modem is online and registered, it can be contacted from a remote location via a setup that connects to the GPRS network using the same APN as the target modem. This can be accomplished by one of the following means:

• A frame relay link to the carrier’s GPRS network

• A VPN [Virtual Private Network] connection to the carrier’s GPRS

network

• Another GPRS modem

where each of the above means is using the same APN as the target modem.

Using a telnet application, a connection can be made to the modem and then AT commands can be issued to configure the modem, just as if a local connection were being made to the modem.

(Note:

If you wish to use Wireless ACE, please see the Important Note in Section 2.)

1. From a Command Prompt, type:

telnet “Host Address” “Port Number”

2. For the "Host address" enter the IP address of the modem. (AT*NETIP?

will reveal the current device IP address.)

3. For the "Port Number" use 2332. This is the default telnet port number

for the GPRS modems. So it would look something like this:

• telnet 192.168.100.23 2332

4. If the correct parameters have been entered, and the modem is currently

online, you will get a "Password" prompt as shown below:

AirLink AT command Interpreter Password *****

5. Enter 12345 (default password) and press [Enter]. You will receive an

OK.

Now you may enter any AT commands to the modem as you would if you were doing a local connection to the modem. See Section Using AT Commands for AT commands and their options.

You may want to set local echo in your terminal emulator to see what you type as you type. There is no remote echo function in the modem.

Note: If the modem is configured to use a DDNS [Dynamic Directory Name Server], you could use a name in place of the IP address above, as in:

telnet remote1.eairlink.com 2332

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Windows Dial-Up Networking Setup Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

4. Windows Dial-Up Networking Setup

This section describes the setup of Windows to enable communications over the GPRS network. Windows 2000 is used as the example because it the one Windows OS revision that carries the most similarity to both Windows 98 as well as Windows XP.

4.1 Add Windows Modem Driver

4.1.1 Setup Modem

Connect the modem to the computer with the DB-9 cable.

Plug in the AC adapter, connect the antenna(s) and power on the modem.

Obtain administrator privileges on your system.

If you do not know how, check with your system administrator.

4.1.2 Add Modem Driver

1. Select Start→ Settings→ Control Panel→ Phone and Modems Options.

2. You should see be in the Phone And Modem Options dialog box. Select the "Modems" tab.

3. Select Add.

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Windows Dial-Up Networking Setup Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

4. Check "Don't detect my modem..." and select Next.

5. Select "(Standard Modem Types)" from the Manufacturers and then select "Standard 33600 bps Modem" under Models.

6. Select Next.

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Windows Dial-Up Networking Setup Raven GPRS User Guide Version 1.08

7. Check Selected Ports, then select the COM port the modem is connected to and select Next.

8. Select Finish to exit the "Install New Modem" wizard.

9. You should see the modem added to the correct COM port.

10. To set the modem speed on the driver, highlight the modem driver and select Properties.

11. Ensure the "Maximum Port Speed" is set to 115200, which is the default value of the GPRS modems.

12. Select OK to exit.

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