Specifications

i50 Manual (5.10)

Page 37

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8.0 Port Assignment

The i50 supports a wide variety of internal and external devices. This section lists each device,

providing descriptions and operating instructions. Only one of each device can be selected at a time

(except the NMEA Output option, which can be configured on multiple ports). Note that in order to

reduce firmware size, the i50 is normally provided with the following external devices disabled: PDT-

100, Sentry, Globalstar, RF, OBD-II, and Garmin Driver logging. Datalink Systems can provide

firmware with these devices enabled on request.

8.1 PDT-100

An EMS PDT-100 satellite modem can be used to provide network coverage across most of North

America. The modem communicates with a geo-stationary satellite, and includes a built-in GPS

receiver. If the i50 is configured to use a PDT-100, it will not require its own internal GPS receiver.

8.2 Sentry

The Sentry is a limited range two-way paging device. It provides a link between the unit and user at a

distance of up to 1000 feet (range depends on surroundings). Its primary use is in man-down and

lone-worker applications. The Sentry pager has three buttons for triggering emergency and general

alerts. Because it is a two-way system, messages can also be sent to the user.

8.3 RF

This option allows the connection of a variety of external modems. The unit will send raw serial data,

relying on the modem to encode and transmit over the air. Optional firmware is available for

interfacing directly with Kenwood Fleetsync/NXDN radios. i50 options include selecting Fleetsync or

NXDN mode, long or short data messages, protocol version and base ID.

8.4 Palm Pilot

Not currently supported. Use the Transparent port option to interface with third-party devices.

8.5 Dial-Up

If the i50 is using an IP modem, it makes sense to be able to connect another mobile computing

device (such as a laptop) to the modem. This allows the laptop to access the Internet for email, file

transfer, etc. The dial-up port acts as a modem emulator. Any external device can send AT

commands to the modem to establish a PPP connection to the Internet. Meanwhile, the i50 maintains

control of the actual modem, ensuring vehicle location and event reporting features remain active.

This link also allows the i50 GPS and status to be retrieved by the connecting device. See section

10.0 for more information on setting up the dial-up link.

8.6 Transparent

One i50 port may be configured as a “transparent” link. Any serial device can connect to this port and

send data over the network. The network server then forwards that data to a specific IP address

and/or to DataHost clients. Likewise, data can be sent from the destination IP address (using a Telnet