Beam iridium RapidSAT 9555 Instruction Manual

iridium RapidSAT 9555
Installation
& User Manual
Suitable for the
Iridium 9555 Portable Satellite Telephone
Beam Communications Pty Ltd

iridium RapidSAT 9555
Installation and User Manual
Version 1.0
BEAM Communications Pty Ltd
8 Anzed Court, Mulgrave,
Victoria, 3170, AUSTRALIA
Information furnished by BEAM Communications Pty Ltd (BEAM) is believed to be accurate and
reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed by BEAM for its use, or for any infringement of
patents or other rights of third parties, which may result from its use. No license is granted by
implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights of BEAM. BEAM reserves the right to
change specications at any time without notice.
Copyright © 2009 BEAM Communications Pty Ltd. All rights reserved
Product name: RapidSAT9555
Manual revision: 01
Part Number: USRMAN005101
Release date: January 2010

Package Contents
Check that your RapidSAT 9555 package contains:
 1 x Bag Case - RapidSAT 9555
 1 x Compact Magnetic Mount Antenna (5m cable)
 1 x Auto Accessory Power Input Cable
 User Manual
 Quick Start Guide
Optional Accessories
9555RSU UPS Pack version
The following optional accessories are available for your RapidSAT 9555.
• RST055 UPS Battery Pack
• UPS Battery Pack Power Output Cable (length: 150mm)
• RST750 AC/12VDC Adaptor
Other
• USB mini-B to USB-A data cable
See your Service Provider for pricing and availability of these quality BEAM accessories.
User Information
Please record your serial number here for future reference:
Model: RapidSAT 9555
Serial no.: 
This number can be copied from the white label on the RapidSAT 9555
Eg. SK500001

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BLANK PAGE

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
CONTENTS
Safety Information 6
About Beam Communications 11
About this Equipment 12
RapidSAT 9555 FEATURES 12
EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW 14
RapidSAT Set Up 15
CONNECTING POWER SUPPLY 15
ANTENNA INSTALLATION 15
UPS BATTERY PACK INSTALLATION (RST055) - OPTIONAL 16
Operating RapidSAT 18
DOCKING & UNDOCKING THE 9555 HANDSET 18
OPERATION OF THE RapidSAT 9555 19
CHARGING THE 9555 HANDSET WHILST IN THE RapidSAT 19
MAKING CALLS 20
MUTE FUNCTIONALITY & EARPIECE-JACK MODE 21
RapidSAT INTERFACE LED 21
DATA COMMUNICATIONS VIA CRADLE USB PORT 22
INSTALLING THE USB CABLE 23
IRIDIUM 9555 DISPLAY DEFINITIONS 26
POWER-ON MESSAGES 27
Assuring Quality of Iridium Service 28
Specication Summary 30
ELECTRICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS 30
Trouble Shooting 31
Beam Warranty Conditions 34

6
Safety
Information
The RapidSAT 9555 is a low power docking station for the Iridium
9555 handset. When ON, it will charge the 9555 handset whilst
docked in the RapidSAT 9555.
Refer to the appropriate section of this RapidSAT 9555 User Manual
for additional safety information.
• Store the system in a cool and dry area.
• Do not submerge the system in water.
• Do not place foreign metal objects or debris in the system. If
debris fall into the system, please return to factory for service.
WARNING:
DO NOT open equipment. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
If a DC power supply is to be used, its output must comply with the
Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) requirements of IEC60950.
All connectors except the Line and Accessory sockets must only be
connected to equipment ports which comply with the Safety Extra Low
Voltage (SELV) requirements of IEC60950.
DO NOT throw the bag into re or burn when the optional UPS Battery
Pack is installed. The UPS Battery Pack MUST BE recycled or disposed
properly.
IMPORTANT!
Please read the following information carefully before installing and
using the Beam RapidSAT 9555. Failing to follow instructions may
compromise the safety of the product and may result in personal
injury and/or equipment damage. Please consult The supplier if you
have any further questions.
WARNING: POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES
1. Turn The phone OFF and DO NOT remove The battery or remove
the 9555 handset from the cradle when you are in any area with a
potentially explosive atmosphere.
2. Obey all signs and instructions.
3. Sparks from The battery in such areas could cause an explosion or
re resulting in bodily injury or even death.
4. Sparks from plugging in the UPS Battery Pack cables could cause
an explosion or re resulting in bodily injury or even death.
5. Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are often but not
always clearly marked. They include, but are not limited to:
• fuelling areas such as gasoline stations
• below deck on boats;
• fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities;
• areas where fuel odours are present (for example, if a gas/
propane leak occurs in a car or home);
• areas where the air contains chemicals or particles, such as
grain, dust, or metal powders;
• any other area where you normally would be advised to turn
off The vehicle engine.

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
Safety – Iridium Transceiver 9555
• The 9555 handset is a low power radio transmitter and receiver.
When it is ON, it receives and also sends out radio frequency
(RF) signals.
• The Iridium 9555 handset has an in-built Iridium transceiver
which is designed to be used with an external antenna. This
antenna transmits RF energy. The Iridium antenna (fitted via an
extension coaxial cable) must be located more than > 0.3 meters
(1 foot) from human body (person) when in operation.
• International agencies have set standards and recommendations
for the protection of public exposure to RF electromagnetic
energy.
»International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation
Protection (ICNIRP) 1996
»Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker (VDE) DIN-0848
»United States Federal Commission, Radio Frequency
Exposure Guidelines (1996)
»National Radiological Protection Board of the United
Kingdom, GS 11, 1988
»American National Standards Institute (ANSI) IEEE.
C95. 1-1992
These standards are based on extensive scientic review. For
example, over 120 scientists, engineers, and physicians from
universities, government health agencies, and industry reviewed the
available body of research to develop the updated ANSI standard.
• Do not operate The satellite telephone when a person is within 1
foot (30 centimeters) of the antenna. A person or object within 1
foot (30 centimeters) of the antenna could impair call quality and
may cause the phone to operate at a higher power level than
necessary and expose that person to RF energy in excess of that
established by the FCC RF Exposure Guidelines.
• As a precaution, please maintain maximum body distance as
possible from the antenna during call transmission.
WARNING: ROAD SAFETY COMES FIRST!
Do not use a hand-held cellular terminal or mobile when driving a
vehicle, unless it is securely mounted in a holder for speakerphone
operation. Before making a call with a hand-held terminal or
mobile, park the vehicle stationary. Please obey local road
laws for handsfree speakerphone operation. Speakerphones
(handsfree) must be installed by qualied personnel. Faulty
installation or operation can constitute a safety hazard.

8
Antenna Care
Use only the supplied or an approved replacement antenna.
Unauthorized antennas, modications, or attachments could damage
the phone and may violate local agency regulations. Please refer to
The Service Provider for further information.
Electronic Devices
Most modern electronic equipment is shielded from RF signals.
However, certain equipment may not be shielded against the RF
signals from The wireless phone.
Pacemakers
The Health Industry Manufacturers Association recommends that
a minimum separation of six inches (6”) be maintained between a
wireless phone’s antenna and a pacemaker to avoid potential
interference with the pacemaker. These recommendations are
consistent with the independent research by and recommendations
of Wireless Technology Research.
Persons with pacemakers:
• Should ALWAYS keep the phone more than six inches from their
pacemaker when phone is turned ON
• Should turn the phone OFF immediately if you have any reason
to suspect interference is taking place
Other Medical Devices
If you use any other personal medical device, consult the manufacturer
of The device to determine if it is adequately shielded from external
RF energy. The physician may be able to assist you in obtaining this
information.
Turn The phone OFF in health care facilities when any regulations
posted in these areas instruct you to do so. Hospitals or health care
facilities may be using equipment that could be sensitive to external
RF energy.
IMPORTANT:
Cellular & Satellite terminals or mobiles operate using radio signals
and communication networks. Because of this, connection cannot
be guaranteed at all times under all conditions. Therefore, you
should never rely solely upon any wireless device for essential
communications, for example emergency calls.

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
Vehicles
RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded
electronic systems in motor vehicles. Check with the manufacturer
or its representative regarding The vehicle. You should also consult
the manufacturer of any equipment that has been added to The
vehicle.
Performance of electronically controlled brake and/or guidance
systems can, under certain unique conditions, be subject to
interference by mobile radio operation. Although the transceiver
exceeds all requirements regarding radio frequency emissions, you
should mount the transceiver as far as possible from the guidance
system and/or braking modulator box (usually located in the trunk) to
minimize any interference.
Posted Facilities
Turn The phone OFF in any facility where posted notices require
such as hospitals and onboard aircraft.
Aircraft
Airline regulations prohibit using The phone while in the air. Consult
the local Aviation Authority for guidelines on use of the equipment on
board an aircraft.
For Vehicles Equipped with an Air Bag
An air bag inates with great force.
Do NOT place objects, including both installed and portable wireless
equipment, in the area over the air bag or in the air bag deployment
area.
If in-vehicle wireless equipment is improperly installed and the air
bag inates, serious injury could result.

10
Conventions in this Manual
Warnings, cautions and notes appear throughout this manual and
are represented by following conventions.
WARNING / CAUTION:
This symbol and associated text indicate a warning note
providing information to prevent damage to equipment or
personal injury.
NOTE / IMPORTANT / TIP:
This symbol and associated text indicate a note providing
general operating information.
INTERFERENCE:
All wireless phones may get interference, which could affect
performance.
RECORD:
Write details of The unit for easy reference when required. Ideal
when troubleshooting.

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
Beam Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of World
Reach Limited (WRR), listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, is
a world leader in design, manufacture and distribution of specialized
communications equipment for the Iridium Satellite Network.
Beam’s commitment to be at the forefront has continued to increase
its share of the global satellite communications market. Its premium
distribution network spans the world.
Recognized as a leading provider of satellite communication
solutions, Beam specializes in Voice, Data, Tracking and customized
solutions. Beam develops innovative products and services to meet
market demands and niche applications.
Beam’s leading edge products are deployed in a wide range of
vertical markets including Maritime, Transport, Government,
Defense, Mining, Construction, Forestry, Emergency Services,
Relief Aid, Telemetry and Rural Telephony.
Supported by a dedicated team of professionals, Beam has
developed solid relationships with its peers and network of
distributors worldwide.
About Beam
Communications
BEAM Communications Pty Ltd
8 Anzed Court, Mulgrave,
Victoria, 3170, AUSTRALIA
Web: www.beamcommunications.com
Info: [email protected]
Support: [email protected]
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

12
About this
Equipment
This guide outlines the details for installing and operating the Beam
RapidSAT 9555 in conjunction with an Iridium 9555 Portable Handset.
This kit must not be used with any other device other than the Iridium
9555 Handset.
• Small, tough and lightweight carry bag with handle and
detachable shoulder strap
• Easy to use
• Integrated antenna and power connection
• Full duplex voice
• Fully certified including RoHS
• In-built SatDOCK 9555 cradle with privacy handset
• In-built handsfree operation with echo cancellation and noise
reduction
• 9555 handset charging when docked
• USB data port interface
• Loud ring indication
• Optional UPS battery pack
Suitable for Vehicle Use
The RapidSAT 9555 has the handsfree function integrated in its bag
and can be used in a vehicle without installation.
Suitable for Outdoor Use
With the optional RST055 UPS battery pack, the RapidSAT can be
used in any dry outdoor environment.
Handset Charging
When the 9555 is seated in the cradle of the RapidSAT bag, the
9555 battery is charged whilst the power is connected and the power
switch is turned on. The 9555 also will be charging if the RapidSAT is
powered from the Beam UPS Battery Pack (optional) and the power
switch is turned on.
RapidSAT 9555
FEATURES

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
9555 Functionality
The major advantage of the RapidSAT is the handsfree use, combined
with a portable bag. The 9555 handset will support all the standard
functionality whilst being used with the RapidSAT, plus a single-touch
mute function accessible from the front of the built-in cradle.
Privacy Handset
The RapidSAT has an integrated privacy handset supporting voices
calls. The handset enables a private conversation when handsfree
operation is not desired.
USB Data Port
A USB data port is provided on the base of the cradle. This USB port
when used with the Iridium 9555 handset allows data calls, via a PC
connection. Refer to the AT commands guide on the Beam website
www.beamcommunications.com/support for Iridium AT modem
commands.
RST055 UPS Battery Pack (Optional)
The RapidSAT 9555 can be powered directly with the Beam RST055
UPS battery pack which is an optional accessory. There is a reserved
compartment in the bag for the battery pack to be securely seated.

14
EQUIPMENT
OVERVIEW
RapidSAT 9555 Set Up
Battery Pack
Insert
Microphone
SatDOCK
9555 Cradle
Power ON/OFF
switch
Privacy Handset
Speaker
Carry Bag
with Handle
Battery Screw
Lock
Additional Storage
Additional
Storage
Iridium 9555 Phone
Removable Flip
Cover with Label
Pocket and Zip
Storage
Lock
Detachable
Shoulder Carry
Strap
TOP
Antenna Note: The antenna
should always be installed with
clear line of site to the sky.
Please refer to the Antenna
Installation Guide on Beam’s
website.
Antenna
Connection
RapidSAT Antenna
SIDE A
SIDE B
Power Connection Note:
1) Without UPS Pack
- Connect power directly to the RapidSAT power input
2) With UPS Pack
- Connect power to the UPS Pack power input
- Then connect UPS Pack power output to the RapidSAT power input via the optional cable
UPS Pack
RST055
(Optional)
UPS Pack
Power Output
Cable
(Optional)
Auto Accessories
Power Input Cable
RapidSAT
Power Input
UPS Pack
Power Input
AC Plug Pack
RST750
(Optional)

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
RapidSAT Set Up
CONNECTING POWER
SUPPLY
The RapidSAT 9555 can be powered in one of ve ways:
1. Connected directly to the Auto Accessories (cigarette lighter)
cable, with no UPS Pack installed. This is also the lightest
conguration.
OR
2. Connected directly to an optional RST750 AC/DC adaptor. This
requires the AC/DC adaptor to be plugged into AC mains 110-
240VAC supply.
OR
3. Connected directly to the optional UPS Pack (installed in
battery compartment). This provides portability without direct
connection to DC or mains grid power.
OR
4. Connected directly to the optional UPS Pack (installed in battery
compartment) – AND the UPS Pack is connected to the Auto
Accessories (cigarette lighter) cable. This allows charging of
the UPS Pack, whilst the system is in use.
Functionality is maintained (remaining on battery mode) when
loss of DC power occurs.
OR
5. Connected directly to the optional UPS Pack (installed in
Battery compartment) – AND the UPS Pack is connected
to an optional RST750 AC/DC adaptor. This also provides
charging of the UPS Pack, whilst the system is in use.
Functionality is maintained (remaining on battery mode) when
loss of AC power occurs.
ANTENNA
INSTALLATION
The included magnetic-mount patch antenna is stored in one of the
end compartments. This can be conveniently connected to the TNC
connector from the cradle - ready for fast deployment.
To prepare for registration, unwind the antenna cable, and place the
patch antenna in maximum view of sky (eg. vehicle roof top). The
cable provides up to 6 metre (18 foot) distance from RapidSAT.

16
The RapidSAT provides the option to install a battery source, to
provide long operation life without DC or AC power (assumes battery
has charge).
To install the UPS Battery Pack:
1. Unpack the UPS Battery Pack, and disconnect any cables that
may be plugged.
2. Turn the Power ON/OFF switch on the RapidSAT to OFF. The
Green LED should be OFF.
3. Open the RapidSAT top lid cover.
4. Locate the black locking thumb-screw on the RapidSAT, and
unscrew, remove and keep nearby.
5. With the bag handle facing front, unzip the right-side-end-cover
of the RapidSAT bag. This will reveal the battery compartment
zipper.
6. Stand the RapidSAT vertical - with the battery compartment
pointing up.
7. Unzip the battery compartment zip.
8. Before placing the UPS Pack in the compartment, ensure that the
output switch is set to 12V.
UPS BATTERY PACK
INSTALLATION
(RST055) - OPTIONAL

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
9. Carefully insert the UPS Pack with the front panel of the UPS
Pack facing out. Push completely in.
10. Insert the locking thumb-screw tightly by hand, and ensure that
the screw point engages over the front panel of the UPS Pack.
11. Plug in the short adaptor cable from the main output of UPS Pack
to the RapidSAT power input connector.
12. Carefully zip-up the RapidSAT right-side-end-cover with the
cables stored inside the lid.
13. RapidSAT is ready for use, or the UPS Pack can now be put on
charge (see UPS Pack instructions).

18
DOCKING &
UNDOCKING THE 9555
HANDSET Docking the 9555
1. To dock the 9555 handset place
the base of the 9555 handset into
the seat of the cradle ensuring that
the pins on the bottom of the 9555
handset line up with that on the seat
of the cradle.
2. Push EJECT button located on top
of the cradle and press the phone in
rmly at the same time. Gently pull
on the handset to conrm that it is
docked correctly and won’t come
loose.
Removing the 9555
1. Ensure the Power ON/OFF switch is
OFF, and the 9555 handset is OFF.
2. When removing the 9555 handset
from the cradle, reverse the above
steps, ensuring you rmly press
the “EJECT” button on top of the
cradle. The phone will then pop
forward into The hand and can then
be removed from the cradle. (the
“EJECT” button requires rm force
to disengage phone)
Operating
RapidSAT WARNING:
Ensure that the external antenna grommet at the rear of the
9555 handset is removed prior to inserting the handset into the
PotsDOCK cradle.
NOTE:
The 9555 handset can be removed from the cradle whilst it is powered,
however the handset will turn off automatically.

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RapidSAT 9555 Installation & User Manual
The Iridium 9555 handset’s battery has a temperature limit whilst
charging. This limit range is set from 0 to 40 degrees Celsius or 32
to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is important to note that IF the ambient temperature inside the
vehicle or the operating temperature of the RapidSAT exceeds this
limit the handset’s battery will not charge until the temperature is
reduced.
CHARGING THE
9555 HANDSET
WHILST IN THE
RapidSAT
OPERATION OF THE
RapidSAT 9555
1. Ensure the 9555 handset is switched OFF, and the Power ON/
OFF switch is OFF.
2. Ensure antenna on the 9555 handset is not extended.
3. Place the handset into the RapidSAT as per the previous
instructions.
4. Switch the Power ON/OFF switch to ON position (the green
LED on the switch is ON). The phone and RapidSAT will
automatically power up.
5. Wait for the 9555 to register on the network.
6. You are now ready to make and receive calls.
NOTE:
The phone may cycle it’s power twice during startup - please be
patient.

20
2. Lift Up
Privacy Handset
1. Push Up
Hang-up Cup
Hang-up Cup
Privacy
Handset
1. During a call, the
handsfree speaker and
microphone are the
default audio device
unless the privacy
handset is removed from
the hang-up cup.
2. Please refer to the image
(right) on how to remove
the handset from the
hang-up cup.
Making a Voice Call
• Ensure that external antenna is placed in maximum view of the
sky.
• To make a voice call, check that the 9555 is “registered”, then dial
the number on the 9555 keypad.
• Progress tones will be heard from the speaker as the call connects.
• The volume of the call can be adjusted using the 9555 volume
buttons on the side of 9555 handset.
Muting Uplink Audio
• The call can be muted at any time using the Mute button on the
cradle - when Mute is ON, the red LED will illuminate.
Privacy Handset
• To switch to the privacy handset, release it from the hang-up cup.
When the privacy handset is in use, the speaker and microphone
operation is disabled.
• To return to speaker and microphone handsfree mode, replace
the privacy handset into the cup.
• The call can be switched between privacy and handsfree mode
anytime.
Cup and Uncup Privacy Handset
Receiving a Voice Call
Incoming calls can be answered by pressing the green key on 9555.
Hanging-Up a Call
Press the red button on the 9555 keypad to hang-up the call.
MAKING CALLS