Sierra Wireless SB300 Series OEM Modems User’s Guide 2110059 Rev 1.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide 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.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide Regulatory Information The equipment certifications appropriate to your device are marked on the device and the accompanying product specific information. Where appropriate, the use of the equipment is subject to the following conditions: CAUTION Unauthorized modifications or changes not expressly approved by Sierra Wireless, Inc. could void compliance with regulatory rules, and thereby your authority to use this equipment.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide “WARNING: While this device is in operation, a separation distance of at least 20cm must be maintained between the radiating antenna and the body of all persons exposed to the transmitter to meet FCC exposure guidelines.” 3. The word “WARNING” should be placed in front of or above the warning statement included in documentation and also in the actual warning label on the antenna or final product.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide Contact Information Sierra Wireless, Inc. 13575 Commerce Parkway Suite 150 Richmond, BC V6V 2L1 Telephone: Fax: e-mail: Web: (604) 231-1100 (604) 231-1109 support@sierrawireless.com www.sierrawireless.com Customer Service Help Desk Open between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time (604) 231-1128 support@sierrawireless.com Warranty and Service Desk Open between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time (604) 231-1157 support@sierrawireless.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide Contents Getting Started 1. About this Guide ........................................................................... 1 1.1. Introduction .......................................................................................................1 1.1.1. Getting Started....................................................................................1 1.1.2. Operational View................................................................................1 1.1.3.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide The Operational View 3. Software Installation....................................................................11 3.1. Introduction..................................................................................................... 11 3.2. Installing Software on the Host ....................................................................... 11 3.3. Configuration using WirelessExpert............................................................... 12 3.4. About Watcher .
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide 4.5. Modem Handshaking (SB320).........................................................................25 5. 4.5.1. Modem Protocol Layers....................................................................25 4.5.2. CSC vs. Wireline ..............................................................................27 CDPD Operation .......................................................................... 29 5.1. Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) Introduction ...........
SB300 Series Modems 6. User’s Guide CSC Operation .............................................................................57 6.1. Introduction..................................................................................................... 57 6.1.1. Modem Registration ......................................................................... 57 6.1.2. CSC Radio Coverage........................................................................ 57 6.1.3. Modem Pools .............................
SB300 Series Modems 9. User’s Guide Troubleshooting.......................................................................... 73 9.1. Introduction .....................................................................................................73 9.2. General Modem Problems ...............................................................................73 9.3. General Communication Problems .................................................................74 9.4. CDPD Problems..........................
SB300 Series Modems 11. User’s Guide Multipurpose Interface Board .....................................................95 11.1. Introduction .............................................................................................. 95 11.1.1. 11.2. Board Description..................................................................................... 96 11.2.1. Schematic......................................................................................... 96 11.2.2. Parts Layout ...........
1. About this Guide 1.1. Introduction This guide is intended to assist both hardware integrators and application software developers with the setup, installation, testing, and design of applications for the Sierra Wireless SB300 Series OEM modems. You should be familiar with the use of modems, communication media (PSTN and Cellular), protocols, and the use of AT commands.
SB300 Series User’s Guide 1.1.4. OEM Developer’s Toolkit Checklist Your toolkit should include the following parts: SWI Part No. Description 1200054 Multipurpose Interface Board (MIB) 1900000 AC Adapter 006.
Introduction SB320 Revision R1.1.2. To determine your firmware revision: 1. Enter the Identification command ATI5 The modem will respond with the Firmware revision information: CDPD Mode: R1_1_2 … CSC/Wireline Modes: (no tag) g:/sb3xx/r1_1_2/ … If the identification command is issued in any of the wireline or CSC modes, this firmware provides no revision tag, however the revision is found farther down the string.
SB300 Series User’s Guide 1.5. Conventions Used in this Reference WARNING Notes in this form denote a physical hazard. The warning calls attention to a procedure or practice which, if not performed correctly, could result in personal injury. CAUTION Notes in this form highlight a procedure or practice which, if not performed correctly, could result in loss of data or damage to equipment. This is also used to highlight issues related to regulatory limitations.
2. Getting Started 2.1. Introduction This chapter guides you through the initial physical setup of a host terminal (usually a PC), the Multipurpose Interface Board (MIB), and a modem. Related start-up issues such as cellular activation are also covered. If you have any difficulties, consult the reference chapters in the Hardware View to become more familiar with the components and their setup.
SB300 Series User’s Guide Both of the above items are in the form of an IP number. This is made up of four numbers ranging in value from 0 to 255, separated with periods (sample: 192.168.0.9) 3. 4. Side designator, A or B. This is determines the channels used by your CDPD service provider. SPNI number of the provider. This is optional.
Getting Started 2.3.2. Physical considerations NOTE The MIB and modem can be sensitive to static so the work surface should be a static controlled environment. 2.3.3. Antenna considerations The SB300 Series modem uses standard mobile cellular radio signals. An antenna (part number 1810009) is provided with the OEM Developer’s Kit. Along with this antenna is a connector adapter (part number 2000066) to convert the antenna connector (Male SMA) to match the modem requirement (Male MMCX).
SB300 Series User’s Guide 2.4. MIB Presets The Multipurpose Interface Board has several switches and jumpers which should be configured as follows for the initial setup. • DIP Switch in the Serial Breakout Box: Switches 1 through 8 should be closed (on) Switches 9 and 10 open (off). • Power Select (J21) should be on pins 1 – 2 (+5V). • HOSTSHDN, \SHDN, and MODEM DIS jumpers on J24 should all be off. • Speaker Enable should be on. 2.5.
Getting Started 5. Attach the modem to the connector strap using the same procedure as the MIB end of the connector. CAUTION Although the MIB provides support for the full SB Series of modems, it is not intended to support more than one modem at a time. Attaching more than one modem can damage circuitry. 6. Place the antenna is a suitable location, attach the antenna connector adapter to the antenna cable, and attach the cable to the modem. 7. Ensure the modem power switch is OFF. 8.
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The Operational View 3. Software Installation 3.1. Introduction This chapter provides instructions for installing Watcher and WirelessExpert™ on a host PC and using these programs to configure and use the modem. It also includes procedures for updating the firmware on the modem if needed. NOTE Running WirelessExpert is required before using Watcher. WirelessExpert will install and configure necessary drivers on the host PC.
The Operational View SB300 Series 3.3. Configuration using WirelessExpert WirelessExpert will automatically locate the modem on a COM port, interrogate it for features, and install the required drivers on your host PC. It will then allow you to set or alter the cellular activation settings. To make the modem drivers available to the Windows operating system, the PC may be restarted part way through the execution of WirelessExpert.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert 11. You are prompted to enter an IP address for a Domain Name Server (DNS). Your cellular service provider should have provided one. This address is used for testing the CDPD configuration by “pinging” the provided address. It is also added to the Windows Dial-up Networking profile. The DNS is not stored in the modem, it is on the host side only. 12.
The Operational View 3. 4. 5. 3.5.2. SB300 Series Click the WirelessExpert… button to activate the installation wizard described above. If specialized setup strings are required for your installation, you can enter them here. The modem uses configuration strings to optimize its operation in certain modes. The modem comes preset with the most common configuration strings. See the specific sections on CSC and Wireline Operations for more information. CDPD mode does not offer special setups.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert 8. 3.5.2.2. Sleep mode is discussed in the CDPD Operations chapter, Section . Enabling it will allow the modem to reduce power consumption when it is inactive, but response times will be slowed. This function sets the sleep timer to 30 seconds. CSC Settings If you are using a SB320, you can place the modem in CSC mode using Watcher. The settings for CSC can then be accessed. To edit the modem’s CSC configuration with Watcher: 1.
The Operational View SB300 Series 3.7. About the Watcher Program Window The Watcher program window looks like this: The window can be set to always be on top of other active windows by using the Window > Always on Top option in the Watcher main menu. Selecting the option again will disable the feature. The window can be minimized and the connection monitored by use of the icon shown in the taskbar. 3.7.1.
User’s Guide 3.7.2.1. Watcher and WirelessExpert Settings Menu Any dimmed options are not available on the modem being used. 3.7.2.2. Wireline Switches the modem to Wireline mode. Cellular Switches the modem to Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC) mode. CDPD Switches the modem to CDPD mode. Register Registers the modem on a CDPD network. Set Radio Channel… Displays options for setting the radio channel automatically or manually.
The Operational View 3.7.3. SB300 Series Toolbar Buttons The Watcher program window contains three buttons for selecting the operating mode, and one button for registering and de-registering your modem in CDPD mode. These buttons are described below. If a button is dimmed, the option is not available on the current modem. Click to switch to Wireline mode. Click to switch to Circuit Switched Cellular mode. Click to switch to CDPD mode. Click to register the modem in CDPD mode.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert 3.8. Updating Modem Firmware Should your modem(s) require a firmware upgrade, this section describes the procedure. See Section 1.3 Currency for information on the current revisions at the time of this writing. That section also describes the method to determine the firmware revision on the modem. You can acquire updated firmware by contacting Sierra Wireless Technical Support at 604.231.1128 or by e-mail to support@sierrawireless.com.
The Operational View SB300 Series There are two elements to the firmware on the modems, bootstrap and application. Not all updates require replacement of both files. If both files do need updating, treat each update separately and perform all steps for each. The boot firmware should be updated first. Page 20 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.
4. Basic Modem Operation 4.1. Introduction This chapter provides some fundamentals to the operation of Sierra Wireless OEM modems and some configuration elements of the host (DTE) to modem communication. Important considerations for wireless connections are covered here but specific techniques for setting up the modem for various remote operations are provided in chapters on each mode of operation. This chapter covers: • Important terminology on modem modes and states. • DTE / DCE communications link.
The Operational View SB300 Series Voice modes do not support the data state. Even while off-hook and connected, the modem still communicates with the host computer in command state. Commands can be issued and executed while a voice connection is in progress. 4.2.3. Conditions In addition to mode and state the modem can be in one of two conditions: • • On-line – actively connected to a remote terminal, or with a network session open, or with an active voice call (off-hook).
User’s Guide Modem Basics • • • Quiet result codes disabled (Q0): which enables the modem to issue result codes following commands. Verbose result codes (V1): which provides results in English text appended with . SB320 Speaker Control is set to be on until carrier detected (M1).
The Operational View 4.3.6. SB300 Series Result Code Formats The modems normally issue result codes on completion of an AT command. This can be disabled with quite mode (Q1). The default is to issue results in verbose (English text) form. Numeric codes can be selected by disabling the verbose option (V0). If echo is enabled (E1) the modem will append a to the echoed from the host. If echo is off, then there is no or prior to the response to the command.
User’s Guide 4.4.1. Modem Basics 3 – Network Data is organized into packets which are data frames with network headers and trailers added including network addressing. The duties include flow control, handling network service data units, notifying the transport layer of errors, and possibly sequenced delivery. IP, SLIP, PPP 2 – Link This layer arranges the bits into frames. It also establishes and releases one or more link connections.
The Operational View SB300 Series Local Modem Remote Modem Data Compression Data Compression (V.42bis, MNP5) (V.42bis, MNP5) Error Control Error Control (LAPM, MNP2-4, MNP10) (LAPM, MNP2-4, MNP10) Data Communication Data Communication (V.34, V.32bis, V.32, ...) (V.34, V.32bis, V.32, ...) Receive Data Transmit Data Figure 4-1: Modem Protocol Layers 4.5.1.1.
User’s Guide 4.5.2. Modem Basics CSC vs. Wireline Older modem protocols, such as V.32 and earlier, were developed and optimized for PSTN wireline networks. However, with the advent of cellular phone networks, and the need for wireless modems to operate within these networks, it became apparent that some adjustments had to be made to the existing protocols to enable them to achieve performance similar to their wireline counterparts. 4.5.2.1.
The Operational View SB300 Series “fuzzy” on the receive side. The receiver can mistake one symbol for another. This is where the protocol speed training algorithm comes into play. It is constantly measuring the amount of noise on the line and based on that measurement will select a speed where it knows it will be able to resolve symbols reliably. In other words, the modem speed is a function of noise level.
5. CDPD Operation This section provides information on configuring and using the modem in CDPD mode if you are not using Watcher and Windows Dial-up Networking for your connections. If you are using a standard Windows-based application then consult Section 3.3 Configuration using WirelessExpert. 5.1. Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) Introduction CDPD is a wireless radio frequency (RF) packet switched data communications service which provides two-way, fully digital, 19.
The Operational View 5.1.2. SB300 Series Architecture The major cellular carriers and equipment manufacturers created a trade group called the Wireless Data Forum (formerly the CDPD Forum), that develops and publishes the governing technical specifications for, and promotes the use of CDPD technology.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation Directory Profile maintained for each subscriber on that CDPD network by the CDPD service provider. 5.1.3.3. Authentication Each NEI (network account) is mated to an EID (modem device). One NEI cannot be used with different devices (EIDs). One device (EID) can have more than one associated NEI (account). One of the functions performed by the CDPD network is NEI authentication and verification.
The Operational View SB300 Series Note that the built-in encryption is for the airlink only (between the modem and the cellular service base station). If end-to-end data security is desired it must be implemented or otherwise provided by the end-user. The extent to which the packet data is assembled and disassembled by the modem is determined by setting the CDPD packet service mode to use SLIP, UDP, or TCP. Use of these protocols is discussed later in this section. 5.2.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation 4. 5. +WPNEILIST to display the list and verify the new entry. +WS174=n where n indicates the channel side preference. Values are: 0 – A side preferred, 1 – B side preferred, 2 – A side only, 3 – B side only. NOTE The channel side preference is stored in a register not associated with a particular entry in the NEI table. The preference will be used for all NEI registrations. 5.2.2.
The Operational View SB300 Series The mode of registration is set in register +WS173 (Registration Mode). A value of 0 indicates manual registration and 1 indicates automatic. The modem is shipped with a value of 1 but the modem will always default to the last method used. Restoring settings with &F (factory) or Z (user profile) will NOT restore a setting to this register. For WirelessExpert to work, the modem must be set to automatic registration. 5.3.1.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation Assign a Channel To assign a channel for use by the modem issue the AT command +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel number to assign. The modem will go to that channel. Subsequent use of +WPRSSI will report the strength of signal and if the channel has been acquired (locked). Changing the channel assignment while the modem is registered will not change the registration status.
The Operational View SB300 Series If the modem is in automatic registration mode it will de-register if: • The registration method is changed to manual (+WS173=0). • The value of the Auto-register NEI Index (+WS176) is changed. • The registered NEI is overwritten with a new value using +WPNEI=ip. 5.4. Monitoring the Network Connection Prior to finding a channel, many query items will return 0. Once locked onto a CDPD channel, the modem can provide several pieces of information about the connection.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation Note that it is possible to read a value of 1 indicating auto-registration is enabled while, in fact, the modem is not registered and is not attempting to register. It is possible to detect situations where this has happened by also reading the Registration Result Code (+WS201). If the result code is 254 – Unregistered by user – then the modem will not automatically attempt to register.
The Operational View SB300 Series 5.5. Sleep Mode CDPD provides a facility to allow modems to go to “sleep” when they do not have active traffic with the network. This allows the modems to shut down hardware to reduce power consumption. When the modem is waiting for data from either the host or the network, it does not need to keep all hardware systems running. The modem can negotiate with the CDPD network to have the network send a periodic message advising if there is pending traffic.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation If logic sleep is enabled (S31 > 0), it will automatically engage on the next CDPD sleep mode interval. Logic sleep continues until data or an AT command is received from the host, or the modem must perform the periodic CDPD sleep mode check. After performing the periodic network check, and provided there is no pending AT command or traffic from the host, the modem will resume both CDPD and logic sleep. The modem can use logic sleep while in auto-answer mode.
The Operational View SB300 Series The modem’s packet service is set in register +WS45 (Packet Service). This setting can be made before or after registration on the network. It should not be changed once the modem starts a session (is on-line). If a change to packet service is required, the user must close the current session (go off-line), change the setting, and then establish a new session. Use of each of the services is described in sub-sections below. For more on protocols generally see Section 4.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation The registration process can be more closely controlled with steps 3 through 6. Steps 3 and 4 can be used in auto-register as well as manual register configurations. To send data over the network in SLIP mode the user must enter a data state connection to the network. There is no explicit destination in SLIP mode so the Dial command is not supported. You are better advised to verify the modem has registered and simply go on-line.
The Operational View SB300 Series H1 will force de-registration of the modem even if auto-registration is enabled. The modem will remain de-registered. Although auto-registration remains enabled, the modem will not resume auto-registration until the register is reset (+WS173=1) or the modem itself re-enters CDPD mode (a modem reset or power cycle on CDPD-only modems). 5.8.2. User Datagram Protocol (UDP) UDP is the most basic transport protocol provided by the modem.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation Any incoming packets, from a remote originator other than the will be ignored. Incoming packets from the address will be passed to the host. This allows the host to exchange data with a specific station. Detailed Discussion The first two steps simply place the modem in CDPD UDP mode. The modem’s packet service is set in register +WS45 (Packet Service) by step 2. Setting this value to 0 will enable the modem’s UDP stack.
The Operational View SB300 Series If the modem has been placed in command state but is still in on-line condition, incoming data will be buffered. There is an automatic remote flow control between the modem and the network to prevent overflow. 5.8.2.2. Escaping Data State There are two methods to escape data state in UDP packet service. The host can issue the PAD Time Independent Escape Sequence (TIES) if it is enabled, or the DTR Option can be used if it is enabled.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation NOTE There is a PAD Inactivity Timeout in register S30 that can also close a session. This timer is disabled by default (set to 0) but can be set to a value from 1 to 20 minutes to prevent the modem from holding an idle session open. If this mechanism closes the session the modem will send the message “OK” to the host and return to command state. The Carrier Detect (DCD) signal will also go inactive indicating the session is closed. 5.8.2.4.
The Operational View SB300 Series If auto-answer is enabled, the modem will then open the session. If DTR is off (indicating the host is unavailable), the packet is buffered. At this time, there is no DTR flow control. Any incoming packets received while DTR is off are held in the modem buffers until one arrives at a time when DTR is on. At that point, all buffered packets are forwarded to the host.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation NOTE – Reply Addressing in UDP Server Sessions The source address (IP address and port number) of the last accepted packet is saved in a temporary variable for use as the current destination address for all packets being sent by the modem during the current server session. This can lead to some conflict on busy systems. If a packet arrives from source A and is currently being serviced by the host when a packet arrives from source B, a reply intended for A will be sent to B.
The Operational View • SB300 Series In the case of SLIP, the disposition of the broadcast and multicast messages is a function of the support provided by the software stack and end-user applications (one must be UDP) operating on the Mobile Application Subsystem (MAS). If a UDP session is not active, the messages will be lost. Broadcast The Broadcast function is used on a geographic coverage basis.
User’s Guide 5.8.3.1. CDPD Operation Configuring a TCP Client Session Client sessions are those in which your modem initiates a conversation with a server. A detailed discussion of this type of session follows the outline of steps to open a TCP Client Session. (AT is omitted for brevity): 1. +WS46=4 to place the modem in CDPD mode (only required on the SB320). 2. +S31=0 to disable logic sleep. 3. +WS175=0 to disable CDPD sleep. 4. +WS45=1 to select TCP packet service. 5.
The Operational View SB300 Series The Dial command can handle the network registration process using the NEI indexed by the autoregister index. See the AT Command Reference for details. This means steps 3 through 6 can be omitted if desired. Note that two timers are used for the connection process. +WS198 (Registration Wait Time) is used to timeout the network registration process. The default is 30 seconds. A second timer at S7 (TCP PAD Timeout) is used to time the TCP connection handshake.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation When the TIES is received by the modem, it will enter command state but remain registered and in on-line condition (the session is kept open). If data arrives at the modem while the session is open and the modem is in command state, the data is buffered as described above. See below for instructions on closing the session. If the session has been kept open, the host can re-enter data state by issuing the On-line command (O).
The Operational View 4. 5. 6. SB300 Series +WS45=1 to select TCP packet service. Optionally assign a channel with +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel to use. Optionally verify the channel acquisition with +WPRSSI looking for the second value in the return string to be 3. If the modem is using auto-registration (+WS173=1) skip to step 9. 7. 8. +WS197=n where n is the index (1-4) of the NEI to register, to select the NEI +WPREG to register on the CDPD network.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation The listening port (+WS212) must be set to the desired port number to communicate over. Both the client and server must share this port number. In a server session, the host does not originate transmissions, but rather waits for service requests from a calling client. The modem does not enter data state until a successful TCP handshake has been negotiated.
The Operational View SB300 Series 5.9. Packet Assembly Management Once in data state with either the UDP or TCP PAD enabled, the modem accepts data from the host (DTE) and assembles it into packets. Packet assembly is largely transparent to the host but some assembly management features are available. Starting a Packet A packet is started when the host starts sending data to the modem. The modem will buffer the data as it assembles the packet.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation To ensure that you can enter the complete string, you cannot set the maximum packet length less than 5. You must also provide sufficient time in the PAD Inter-Character Timer to enter each character. If this is to be manually typed, the value should be set quite high (or disabled altogether). You must also avoid setting the PAD Primary Forwarding Character (+WS64) to one of the three characters in the TIES string (A=65 ,T=84 ,+=43 ). 5.10.
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6. CSC Operation This section provides information on configuring and using the SB320 modem in Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC) data mode if you are not using Watcher and Windows Dial-up Networking for your connections. If you are using a standard Windows-based application then consult Section 3.3 Configuration using WirelessExpert. The introduction provides some background on CSC communications in general. For details on CSC Voice operation see Section 8 Voice Operation in CSC and Wireline. 6.1.
The Operational View SB300 Series These errors result from various forms of electrical interference, noise generated by other cellular subscribers (especially during peak usage periods), and the user being located in areas of poor cellular coverage such as remote locations or inside buildings. The use of any cellular device inside a building suffers from varying degrees of signal loss due to losses in the building walls and office materials inside the building.
User’s Guide CSC Operation 4. 5. +WPNAM=num,sys,pref where num is the 10 digit phone number with area code and without brackets, spaces, or dashes (i.e. 6042311100); sys is the Host System ID provided by your cellular service provider; and pref is the numeric code for the side preference as shown below: 0 – A side preferred, 1 – B side preferred, 2 – A side only, 3 – B side only, 4 – Home only. When you press the modem will update the entry and respond OK.
The Operational View SB300 Series 6.3. Originate a CSC Connection CSC operates just like regular landline modems except the call is placed over a cellular network. Watcher (Section 0) can be used to setup the modem for CSC operation. When set, a call can be placed using any modem application which can issue a dial command to the port. Alternatively, Windows Dial-up Networking can be configured to establish a connection.
User’s Guide 6.5.1. CSC Operation Factory Default for ETC The &F5 command will configure the SB320 for optimal performance on most cellular systems. This AT command is designed to make it easy for the user or application to set up the modem in ETC mode. Sending just this one command will cause the modem to reconfigure all its registers, including those that are not associated with ETC, to factory default and optimized for ETC operation.
The Operational View SB300 Series Remember that the factory setting above sets the speed for the initial negotiation at 4800 bps but the modem can train up to a maximum set in S37. The default value for S37 is to connect no faster than the DTE connection speed (currently fixed at 19200 bps). This will happen only if the line conditions allow it. Otherwise, the modem will connect at a lower speed.
User’s Guide CSC Operation *H2 This sets the Link Negotiation Speed for the initial connection to 4800 bps. The policy of “start slow and train up” guarantees that the initial negotiation phase has more chance of success. Start-up speeds of 4800 bps and 9600 bps (*H3) may be used. In addition if a connection has not been established after 60 seconds, the modems will fall back to 1200 bps.
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7. Wireline Operation 7.1. Introduction Wireline data mode is that most commonly associated with computer communications: the modem is connected via a telephone line. Only the SB320 supports this mode. This section provides information on configuring and using the SB320 modem in Wireline data mode if you are not using Watcher and Windows Dial-up Networking for your connections. If you are using a standard Windows-based application then consult Section 3.3 Configuration using WirelessExpert.
The Operational View SB300 Series -K0 This is a companion to the above command indicating a preference for LAPM when using V.42. *H0 This sets the Link Negotiation Speed for the initial connection to a maximum equivalent to the DTE speed. It will adapt to the speed of the other modem. S7=120 The Wait for Carrier is set higher than the default 50 seconds to allow for the added time of cellular (and possibly modem pool) connections. This sets the wait to 120 seconds.
User’s Guide Wireline Operation 7.4. Auto-answer a Wireline Call Your application can use the SB320 modem just like any other landline modem. The modem setup string should be the appropriate factory setting as indicated in Section 7.3 above. To enable auto-answer add: AT S0=n where n is the ring count on which the modem will answer the line. You may freely add necessary settings to control the local DTE/DCE interface (echo, verbose, quiet, etc.) without altering the remote connection settings.
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8. Voice Operation in CSC and Wireline 8.1. Introduction This section provides preliminary information for using the voice features added to firmware revision 1.1.2 of the SB320 multi-mode modem. Voice features are implemented for beta testing only at this time. Full FCC and Cellular compliance has been verified but FCC approvals have not yet been received.
The Operational View SB300 Series 8.3. Placing a Voice Call The follow procedure applies to placing voice calls in both Wireline and CSC modes. Where CSC mode is used, the modem must have been configured with a NAM and be registered with the cellular service provider. To place a call enter the following commands (the AT is omitted for brevity): 1. +WS46=n where n is the mode choice of either 17 for CSC Voice or 18 for Wireline Voice. 2. Dn where n is the telephone number to dial.
User’s Guide Wireline Operation 8.5. Adjusting MIC and SPKR Levels The modem has two gain controls for each of the MIC and SPKR signals. A coarse control sets the level of the automatic gain control (AGC). A fine control adds additional resolution. Setting these levels is achieved with the +WV commands noted in the command reference in the next section. Currently there is no way to query these settings but that capability will be added in future revisions of the firmware. As discussed in Section 8.2.
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9. Troubleshooting 9.1. Introduction Some solutions to common problems are described here. They are grouped along the lines of the four operations chapters. General problems communicating with the modem in the first section and issues which are specific to particular modes in subsequent sections. An up to date troubleshooting guide will be available on the Sierra Wireless Internet site at www.sierrawireless.com.
The Operational View SB300 Series 9.3. General Communication Problems Problem Description Suggestions Fails to respond to AT command. Verify that you are using the correct COM port and communication parameters (speed, data bits, parity, etc.) Verify the serial cable connections. Verify the modem is powered on and allow for 10 seconds initialization time. Try typing the command ATE1Q0.
User’s Guide Troubleshooting CDPD Problems (Continued) Problem Description Suggestions Watcher reports: CDPD ras connection is not running. Close all communication applications, then close and restart Watcher. Watcher reports a good connection and you are registered to a CDPD network however your Internet Web Browser can never find sites. Make sure the DNS entry in Dial-up Networking is correct.
The Operational View SB300 Series Wireline Problems (continued) Problem Description Suggestions The modem does not go offhook and begin dialing. Verify the duration of DTMF tones (register S11) is sufficient to break dial tone. Verify the telephone line is analogue and not digital. Page 76 The modem won’t recognize the local dial tone. Disable the dial tone detection using ATX0 or ATX1. Ensure the setting of Wait For Blind Dial (S6) is sufficiently long. Modem intermittently disconnects.
The Hardware View 10. Product Descriptions The SB300 Series modems are designed for integration into devices that require wireless communications such as PC’s, portable and handheld devices, metering and monitoring equipment, and point of sale terminals. All models provide CDPD V1.1 19.2 kbps communication. The SB320 also supports Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC-AMPS) V.34 data rates to 16.8 kbps, and wireline (PSTN) V.34 data rates to 33.6 kbps.
The Hardware View SB300 Series “WARNING: While this device is in operation, a separation distance of at least 20cm must be maintained between the radiating antenna and the body of all persons exposed to the transmitter to meet FCC exposure guidelines.” 3. The word “WARNING” should be placed in front of or above the warning statement included in documentation and also in the actual warning label on the antenna or final product.
User’s Guide Product Descriptions 10.2. Specifications Common to All Modems The following specifications provide information on all SB300 Series modems. 10.2.1. 10.2.2. 10.2.3. Application Interface Specifications Serial Interface (DTE) 19200 bps (current firmware R1.1.
The Hardware View 10.2.4. SB300 Series Connector Part Numbers This section summarizes the parts used, their mating parts, and identifies the suppliers so that you can acquire the needed connectors for the host equipment / accessories. 10.2.4.1. Antenna Connector All models of the SB300 Series use the same MMCX type antenna connector.
10.3. SB300 CDPD Modem Part number 1100034 10.3.1. Mechanical 10.3.1.1. Physical Description The SB300 comes in a Type III package, and includes a 30-pin, 0.5mm pitch ZIF connector for the host interface, a MMCX connector for the antenna, and a status LED. Dimensions (in mm) are as follows: Figure 10-1: SB300 Physical Dimensions [mm]. 10.3.1.2. Mounting The SB300 uses an industry standard Type III frame-kit, and as such will fit into PC Card rails.
The Hardware View 10.3.2. SB300 Series Connectors See Section 10.2.4 for part number and manufacturer contact details on all connections. 10.3.2.1. Antenna Connector The SB300 provides an MMCX type RF connector for the antenna connection. For proper matching the antenna should be 50 ohms with a return loss of 10 dB or better between 824 - 894 MHz. System antenna gain should be 0 dB. New production units will include support for the future Sierra Wireless booster product.
User’s Guide 10.3.5. 10.3.6. SB300 Product Description RF Features Transmitter Power nominal 600 mW into 50 Ω Transmitter Performance Meets or exceeds CDPD V1.1 Section 405 FCC, Industry Canada, IS19B/C Receiver Sensitivity -108dBm 5% BLER Electrical 10.3.6.1. Host (DTE) Interface The SB300 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing. This connector provides four interfaces: 4. Serial host interface 5. Modem control interface 6. Power 7.
The Hardware View SB300 Series Table 10-4: Serial Interface Electrical Characteristics Characteristic Min.(V) Max.(V) Input Low Voltage -0.3 0.8 Input High Voltage 2.5 5.0 Output High Voltage (Ioh=400 µA) 2.4 – Output Low Voltage (Iol=3.2 mA) – 0.5 Serial Port Interface The serial port pins comprise a standard set of serial data and handshaking lines. All signals are negative assertion, HCMOS logic compatible. These signals must be terminated properly if they are not used.
User’s Guide SB300 Product Description The purpose of this process is to prevent corruption of the data in non-volatile memory. There is CDPD network housekeeping which goes on transparent to the user. Removing power or resetting arbitrarily can corrupt this data. When the \SHDN signal is detected, the modem will complete all housekeeping and send the de-register message to the network before asserting \STATUS_OUT3. Timing between the assertion of \SHDN and the reply on \STATUS_OUT3 can range from a minimu
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10.4. SB320 Specifications Part number 1100033 10.4.1. Mechanical 10.4.1.1. Physical Description The SB320 comes in a Type III package, and includes a 30-pin, 0.5mm pitch ZIF connector for the host interface, a 13-pin I/O connector for the wireline interface, a MMCX connector for the antenna, and a status LED. Dimensions in millimetres are as follows: Figure 10-3: SB320 Physical Dimensions [mm]. 10.4.1.2.
The Hardware View 10.4.2. SB300 Series Connectors See Section 10.2.4 for part number and manufacturer contact details on all connections. 10.4.2.1. Antenna Connector The SB320 provides an MMCX type RF connector for the antenna connection. For proper matching the antenna should be 50 ohms with a return loss of 10 dB or better between 824 - 894 MHz. System antenna gain should be 0 dB. 10.4.2.2. Host (DTE) Connector The SB320 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing.
User’s Guide 10.4.5. SB320 Product Description RF Features Transmitter Power nominal 600 mW into 50 Ω Transmitter Performance Meets or exceeds CDPD V1.1 Section 405 FCC, Industry Canada, IS19B/C Data: -108dBm 5% BLER Voice: -116dBm 12dB SINAD Receiver Sensitivity 10.4.6. Electrical 10.4.6.1. Host (DTE) Interface The SB320 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing. This connector provides four interfaces: 1. Serial host interface 2. Modem control interface 3. Power 4.
The Hardware View SB300 Series Table 10-8: Serial Interface Electrical Characteristics Characteristic Min.(V) Max.(V) Input Low Voltage -0.3 0.8 Input High Voltage 2.5 5.0 Output High Voltage (Ioh=400 µA) 2.4 – Output Low Voltage (Iol=3.2 mA) – 0.5 Serial Port Interface The serial port pins comprise a standard set of serial data and handshaking lines. All signals are negative assertion, HCMOS logic compatible. These signals must be terminated properly if they are not used.
User’s Guide SB320 Product Description Modem Control Interface Modem control is comprised of two inputs: 1. \SHDN: Graceful Shutdown This is an active low input. When activated this signal instructs the modem to de-register from the network, and power down. When this activity is completed the \STATUS_OUT3 line is driven low (on) indicating to the host that power may be safely removed from the device. The purpose of this process is to prevent corruption of the data in non-volatile memory.
The Hardware View SB300 Series 10.4.6.2. Wireline and Voice Interface The SB320 provides a 13-pin I/O connector for its wireline interface to the PSTN and for the voice mode connections to a microphone and speaker (headset or handset). The connector is positioned on the opposite end of the housing from the serial host (DTE) connector. This connector provides these interfaces: 1. Telephone Line Interface 2. Voice Feature Interface 3. Status Outputs 1 and 2 The connector pinouts are specified in Table 10-9.
User’s Guide SB320 Product Description Telephone Line Interface PSTN Line Connection The telephone line interface consists of two signals: TIP and RING. These two lines should be routed via a twisted-pair wire to a panel-mounted RJ-11 connector. The PSTN Load Number (5B) is noted on the back label of the modem. Note that is provides connection to analogue telephone lines only. Connection to digital PBX lines is not supported.
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11. Multipurpose Interface Board 11.1. Introduction The Multipurpose Interface Board (MIB) is a development aid to facilitate testing and configuration of the SB300 Series modems by allowing communication using a standard RS-232 serial connection. It also provides monitoring LEDs, test points, connections for a protocol analyzer, and connections for wireline (PSTN) hookup. There is also support for the SB220 and SB301/302 modems.
The Hardware View SB300 Series 11.2. Board Description 11.2.1. Schematic See the following two insert pages. 11.2.2. Parts Layout See the third following insert page. Page 96 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.
CDPD Mode 11.3. Power Supply The MIB requires a 12V DC, 1 Amp power supply. An AC adapter (part number 1900000) is provided with the OEM Developer’s Toolkit. This power is converted by the MIB into the 5V (and 7V for the SB220) supply needed by the modems. It is not designed to support more than one modem connected to the MIB at any time. There is a power switch on the MIB that controls delivery of both the 5V and 7V supplies to the modem connectors as well as the 5V supply to the MIB’s own logic.
The Hardware View SB300 Series Debug Port The second 9-pin D connector is for factory level testing only. 11.4.2. Host (DTE) Connection for SB300/320 An alternative to the 9-pin RS-232 serial connector (PC Serial Port) is provided for connecting a host (DTE) device to a SB300 or SB320 via the 30-pin flat flex ZIF connector at J8 (SB300/320 Host). This connector allows you to insert the MIB between the host and the modem for testing and monitoring communications.
CDPD Mode Serial Signals The MIB converts the serial communication signals to RS-232 level, presents them at the Serial Breakout Box and then passes them to the DTE/DCE ends. The DCE (modem) side of this conversion can be disabled, effectively disconnecting the modem from the MIB by placing a jumper on the MODEM DISBL pins of the main jumper block. This can be useful if you are using a protocol analyzer to emulate the DCE device.
The Hardware View 11.4.7. SB300 Series SB220 Modem Conneciton This is provided for factory testing of older model modems not detailed in this manual. 11.5. Jumpers There are five jumper blocks provided on the MIB. Two of these are for the SB220, which is not covered in this document. The three blocks used with the SB300 Series modems are summarized below and discussed in detail in following sections. The main jumper block is located next to the modem power switch and has eight pairs of pins.
CDPD Mode 11.5.1.4. TP CTRL Test Point 5 is tied to this jumper. When the jumper is removed, the test point delivers GND; when the jumper is inserted it delivers the MIB’s 5V DC, independent of the modem’s power supply. 11.5.1.5. MODEM DISBL Placing a jumper on this pair of pins will disable the MIB’s conversion of the modem serial connection from HCMOS level to RS-232 level, effectively disconnecting the modem from the Serial Breakout Box and the host (both PC and direct host side connection).
The Hardware View SB300 Series 11.7. Test Points There are six test points plus a pair of pins for current measurement. The sixth test point is not used at this time. 11.7.1. TP1 DISC This test point receives its signal from pin 30 of the SB320 modem connector and pin 1 of the SB320 I/O connector. It presents the discriminator output of the radio modem. 11.7.2. TP2 KEY All modem connectors provide the transmitter key indicator here. This signal is also indicated by the S02 status LED. 11.7.3.
CDPD Mode 11.9. Initial Setup As shipped the MIB is configured as follows: • Serial communication DIP switches are closed and the two spare switches are left open. • Power select is on pins 1 and 2 to use MIB power for the modem. • The following main jumpers are connected: • ST IN1 – ST IN4 (Status Inputs to SB320) These are unused currently and simply provide a “parking space” for jumpers which can be used as needed elsewhere. • TP CTRL allowing for measurement of the MIB’s 5V power supply.
