Multitech Multimodem MTCBA-G-F1 User manual

MultiModem®GPRS
External Wireless Modem
MTCBA-G-F1
MTCBA-G-F2
User Guide

User Guide for MultiModem® GPRS
External Wireless Modem
Models MTCBA-G-F1 & MTCBA-G-F2
P/N S000304J, Revision J
Copyright © 2005 by Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior expressed written
permission from Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. makes no representation or warranties with respect to the contents hereof and specifically
disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Furthermore, Multi-Tech
Systems, Inc. reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the content hereof
without obligation of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc., to notify any person or organization of such revisions or changes.
Revision History
Revision Date Description
A 05/01/03 Initial Release
B 09/17/03 Revise package contents list & powering drawing.
C 01/20/04 Revise package contents, add RS232 Connector pinout diagram.
D 04/12/04 Revise package contents and features lists.
E 07/13/04 Revise network access info
F 12/30/04 Revise package contents list & powering drawing and add 2 cable drawings.
G 01/07/05 Added instructions for hazardous locations.
H 09/15/05 Added WEEE update to User Guide.
I 10/13/05 Changed temperature range, added humidity rating, changed modem maintenance
And warranty chapter.
J 11/15/05 Change footer.
Trademarks and Logos
Multi-Tech, MultiModem and the Multi-Tech logo are trademarks of Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. Windows is a registered
trademark of Microsoft in the U.S. and other countries. Other trademarks and trade names mentioned in this
publication belong to their respective owners.
World Headquarters
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
2205 Woodale Drive, Mounds View, Minnesota 55112
[phone]; [phone]; Fax [phone]
Technical Support
Country By Email By Phone
France: [e-mail] (33) 1-64 61 09 81
India: [e-mail] 91 (124) 6340778
U.K.: [e-mail] (44) 118 959 7774
U.S. and Canada: [e-mail] [phone]
Rest of the World: oemsa[email protected] [phone]
Internet Address: http://www.multitech.com

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 3
Contents
Chapter 1: Product Description and Specifications................................................................................ 4
Product Description ................................................................................................................................... 4
Package Contents .................................................................................................................................. 4
Interfaces ................................................................................................................................................ 4
Parts to be Supplied by Wireless Service Provider................................................................................ 4
Parts to be Supplied by End User .......................................................................................................... 4
Antenna/RF Specifications ..................................................................................................................... 5
AT Command Info................................................................................................................................... 5
Phone Number for the Wireless Modem ................................................................................................ 5
Network Access ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Features.................................................................................................................................................. 6
Application Overview ................................................................................................................................. 7
Application Types ................................................................................................................................... 7
Benefits/Features in Applications ........................................................................................................... 8
Functions – GSM Modes ........................................................................................................................ 9
Specifications........................................................................................................................................... 10
General Specifications.......................................................................................................................... 10
Electrical Characteristics ...................................................................................................................... 10
Input/output electrical characteristics for external connections............................................................ 10
LED Indicators ...................................................................................................................................... 11
RS232 15-Pin Connector Pinout .......................................................................................................... 11
Chapter 2: Installation .............................................................................................................................. 12
Mechanical Mounting............................................................................................................................... 12
Electrical Installation & Configuration ...................................................................................................... 14
Mobile Phonetools ................................................................................................................................... 17
Direct Modem Installation ........................................................................................................................ 17
Verifying Signal Strength ......................................................................................................................... 17
Verifying Network Registration ................................................................................................................ 18
Testing the Configuration......................................................................................................................... 19
Chapter 3: Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................... 20
Troubleshooting Examples ...................................................................................................................... 20
Situation A: The modem does not answer through the serial link ........................................................ 20
Situation B: The modem always returns «Error» when trying to issue a communication .................... 21
Situation C: The modem always returns «No carrier» when trying to issue a communication............ 22
Chapter 4: Safety....................................................................................................................................... 23
Safety....................................................................................................................................................... 23
General Safety...................................................................................................................................... 23
Vehicle Safety....................................................................................................................................... 24
Your Responsibility............................................................................................................................... 24
Chapter 5: Warranty and Repairs ............................................................................................................ 25
Multi-Tech Warranty Statement............................................................................................................ 25
Repair Procedures for International Customers...................................................................................26
Repairs for damages caused by lightning storms, water, power surges, incorrect installation, physical
abuse, or user-caused damages are billed on a time-plus-materials basis......................................... 26
Replacement Parts ............................................................................................................................... 26
Chapter 6: Reference Information........................................................................................................... 27
Wireless Modem Reference Information ................................................................................................. 27
General ................................................................................................................................................. 27
Disclaimer ............................................................................................................................................. 27
Data Cable Diagram, Regular Wireless MultiModem........................................................................... 27
Data Cable Diagram, Wireless MultiModem with Voice....................................................................... 28
Appendix A - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Statement................................... 29

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 4
Chapter 1: Product Description and
Specifications
Product Description
The Multi-Tech MultiModem® GPRS is an external data/fax/voice wireless modem. It also supports mobile originated
short message service (SMS) and mobile-terminated SMS. It offers standards-based multi-band GSM/GPRS Class
10 performance. This ready-to-deploy, standalone modem allows developers to add wireless communication to
products with a minimum of development time and expense. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem is based on
industry-standard open interfaces, is fully type approved, and can be desktop or panel mounted.
Package Contents
Basic Package
one modem
two holding bridles (mounting brackets)
one fused power cable
Bundled Package
All Basic package items except the fused power cable, plus
one RS232 15-to-9 pin cable
one antenna
four adhesive-backed rubber feet for table-top mounting
one universal power supply with power cord
one MultiModem CD
one Quick Start Guide
Interfaces
The Wireless MultiModem has several interfaces:
LED function indicating operating status
External antenna (via SMA connector)
Serial and control link (via 15 pins SUB D)
Power supply (via 2.5mm miniature power jack)
SIM card holder
Parts to be Supplied by Wireless Service Provider
Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) configuration chip
The SIM contains information specific to your wireless account and its features.
Parts to be Supplied by End User
mounting screws (screw shaft diameter = .17” max.)
antenna (Basic Package)

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 5
Antenna/RF Specifications
If the antenna shipped with the bundled version does not meet your application requirements (for size,
shape,mounting style, etc.), you may supply an antenna yourself. The antenna used must be of the correct
frequency and must be a style appropriate to the application. See the Antenna/RF Specifications section below.
GSM 850 EGSM 900
Frequency RX 869 to 894 MHz 925 to 960 MHz
Frequency TX 824 to 849 MHz 880 to 915 MHz
RF Power Stand 2W at 12.5% duty cycle 2W at 12.5% duty cycle
Impedance 50 ohms
VSWR <2
Typical Radiated Gain 0 dBi on azimuth plane
GSM 1800 GSM 1900
Frequency RX 1805 to 1880 MHz 1930 to 1990 MHz
Frequency TX 1710 to 1785 MHz 1850 to 1910 MHz
RF Power Stand 1W at 12.5% duty cycle 1W at 12.5% duty cycle
Impedance 50 ohms
VSWR <2
Typical Radiated Gain 0 dBi on azimuth plane
AT Command Info
AT commands for the GPRS wireless modem are published in a separate Reference Guide
included on the MultiModem CD and posted on the Multi-Tech web site.
IP commands for GPRS modems are also published in a separate Reference Guide included
on the MultiModem CD and posted on the Multi-Tech web site.
Phone Number for the Wireless Modem
•Every wireless modem will have its own unique phone number.
•The wireless modem’s phone number may simply be told to the subscriber or be on the
SIM or both. Wireless provider implementations may vary.
Network Access
The network access arrangements to be specified in Windows Dial-Up Networking (of the
computer that the wireless modem is serving) will vary according to the type of wireless service
used.
•For GSM-without-GPRS, a circuit-switched data connection is used. The user can set up
DUN to make a conventional V.32 modem connection to any terminating modem at the
other end. The phone number specified in DUN can be one supplied by the wireless
service provider or another phone number related to a different dialup modem service (e.g.,
a dialup modem service phone number from any commercial or private dialup network).
•For GSM-with-GPRS, a single DUN number is generally used by all of a wireless provider’s
subscribers throughout its area of coverage (regional, nationwide, continental, etc.).
Rather than being a literal phone directory number, as in conventional DUN, this is a code
that gives the modem Internet access.

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 6
Features
•GPRS Class 10 operation
•Dual-band 850/1900 or 900/1800 GSM/GPRS
•GSM Class 1 and Class 2 Group 3 FAX
•Desktop or panel mounting
•Short Message Services including text and PDU, point-to-point, cell
broadcast
•14.4K GSM circuit switched data
•SMA antenna connector and SIM socket
•Serial interface supports DTE speeds to 115.2K
•AT command compatible
•MNP2 V.42bis data compression
•Numerous LEDs provide operational status
•ME + SIM phone book management
•Fixed dialing number
•SIM Toolkit Class 2
•SIM, network and service provider locks
•Real time clock
•Alarm management
•UCS2 character set management
•Packet data up to 85K bps
•Embedded TCP/IP stack
•Circuit-switched data (GSM) up to 14.4K bps transparent and non-
transparent

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 7
Application Overview
Application Types
With circuit switched data rates up to 14.4K bps, the MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem is
targeted at applications that periodically need to send or receive data over a wireless network. It is
an ideal solution for:
Appliances
ATM Terminals
Automotive
Data Collection
Gas Pumps
Industrial and Medical Remote Monitoring Systems
Remote Diagnostics
Remote Metering
Security Systems
Vending/Gaming Machines
Other devices requiring wireless connectivity.
Note: The Wireless MultiModem must be mounted with at
least 8 inches (20 cm) of clearance from the human body.
RS232
Wireless MultiModem used in
remote ATM application.

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 8
Benefits/Features in Applications
Short Development Time. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem can make your existing and
next generation device, machine, or system, communication-ready without requiring any hardware
changes to its design. It actually provides faster time-to-market because it relieves the burden and
expense of obtaining network and RF approvals. This complete, ready-to-deploy wireless modem
allows you to enhance your product while you focus on developing its core features.
Voice Features. The MultiModem GRPS provides telephony and Dual Tone Multi Frequency
(DTMF) functionality. It also allows for emergency calls as well as echo cancellation and noise
reduction (option), and full rate, enhanced Full Rate and Half Rate (FR/EFR/HR).
Short Message Services. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem offers SMS features such as
text and PDU, point-to-point (MT/MO) and cell broadcast.
Compatible Supplementary Services. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem is compatible
with supplementary services such as call forwarding, call barring, multiparty, call waiting and call
hold, calling line identification, advice of charge, USSD, closed user group and explicit call transfer.
Management Features. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem provides advanced
management features including phone book management, fixed dialing number, and real time clock
and alarm management.
Industry-standard Modem Commands. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem provides
industry-standard AT-style commands for ease of integration into your existing software application.
Industrial Chassis. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem is packaged in a rugged, water
resistant, industrial chassis. The chassis has an RS-232 DE-15 Voice/Data interface connector
and a permanent screw-type power connector. It also has an SMA antenna connector. The
chassis can be side-mounted on a panel or top-mounted on a desktop or other surface. A set of
LEDs indicates the modem’s operational status.
Packet-Switched Data. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem supports GPRS Class 10
packet-switched cellular data. This enables mobile Internet functionality by allowing interworking
between the existing Internet and the cellular network at speeds up to 85K bps. Any service that is
used over the fixed Internet today – File Transfer Protocol (FTP), web browsing, chat, e-mail, telnet
-- is available over the cellular network, as well. The MultiModem GRPS supports PBCCH and
coding schemes CS1 to CS4, and is compliant with SMG31bis.
Circuit-Switched Data (CSD). The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem also supports GSM
circuit-switched cellular data connections. Circuit-switched data connections support speeds up to
14.4K bps, Class 1 and Class 2 Group 3 fax, as well as MNP2 V.42bis compression. CSD cellular
wireless connections are ideal for applications that require a quick wireless replacement of an
existing point-to-point analog dial-up connection. They integrate seamlessly with your current
application requiring little infrastructure change.
Internet-Enabled. The MultiModem GRPS Wireless Modem includes an embedded TCP/IP
protocol stack to bring Internet connectivity to any device. Using the embedded Internet protocols
and the wirless connection to an IP network, it sends and receives data over the Internet. It can
also serve a single web page in response to a web browser request.

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 9
Functions – GSM Modes
MODE DESCRIPTION
Standard Dual Band Extended GSM 900 MHz Class 4 (2W) and GSM 1800/1900 MHz
Class 1 (1W)
Interface Serial interface RS232. V.24/V.28 Autobauding function. AT command set
based on V.25ter and GSM 07.05 & 07.07
SMS Mobile Originated (MO) and Mobile Terminated (MT) SMS Mode Text & PDU
point to point. Cell broadcast in accordance with GSM 07.05.
Data Asynchronous 2400, 4800, 9600 and 14400 bps.
Data Transparent and Non Transparent modes.
In Non Transparent Mode only: 300, 1200, 1200/75 baud rates are available.
Mode 3.1 KHz (PSTN) and V110 (ISDN).
Fax [phone]/9600 bps
Fax GSM teleservice 62 in Transparent Mode.
Class 2. Group 3 compatible.
GPRS Class 10. Coding schemes: CS1 to CS4.

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 10
Specifications
General Specifications
Power Requirements 5 V to 32VDC; 400mA Average @5V, 1A Peak @ 5V
Mechanical Dimensions & Weight 4.3" w x 2.4" h x 0.94" d; 4.1 oz.
(11 cm x 6.1 cm x 2.4 cm; 115 g)
Connectors & Fasteners Antenna Connection type: SMA jack
Serial Connector: 15-pin RS232 SUB D female (DE15S)
Pins: RS232 link, audio link, BOOT, RESET
Power Connector: 2.5mm miniature power jack
SIM receptacle: (standard)
Operating Temperatures 0 to +50°C
Humidity Relative humidity 20% to 90% noncondensing
Certifications CE Mark
EMC: FCC Part 2, 15, 22, 24, EN 55022 & EN 55024
Safety: UL 60950, EN 60950
Electrical Characteristics
Switching the GSM modem on/off The device is permanently powered (when connected to the
power supply).
Voltage Range Voltage range : 5 to 32V DC
GND : 0V
Overvoltage and Undervoltage Correct operation of the Wireless MultiModem in
communication mode is not guaranteed if input voltage falls
below 5V.
Input/output electrical characteristics for external connections
GSM/GPRS 850/900 GSM/GPRS 1800/1900
Parameters Typ. Typ. Unit
Input Supply Voltage 5 13.2 32 5 13.2 32 V
Input peak supply current in comm.
mode at Pmax
1 .4 .2 1 .4 .2 A
Input average supply current in
comm. mode at Pmax
360 150 75 300 125 70 mA
Input average supply current in idle
mode 30 10 10 30 10 10 mA

Chapter 1 – Description & Specification
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 11
LED Indicators
TD. Transmit Data. Lit when modem is transmitting data.
RD. Receive Data. Lit when modem is receiving data.
CD. Carrier Detect. Lit when data connection has been established.
LS. Line Status. Continuous “on” state indicates that the wireless modem is not registered
on the network.
Flashing state indicates registration on network.
Off state. Modem is off (not ready) or in download mode.
TR. Terminal Ready. Commonly called “Data Terminal Ready.” This is a readiness signal from
the PC.
PWR. Power. Indicates presence of DC power when lit.
RS232 15-Pin Connector Pinout
10
11
6
15
15
PIN EIA CCIT Designation
1 DCD 109 Data Carrier Direct
6 RX 104 Receive Data (out)
2 TX 103 Transmit Data
8 DTR 108.2 Data Terminal Ready
9 GND Signal Ground
7 DSR 107 Data Set Ready
12 RTS 105 Request to Send
11 CTS 106 Clear to Send
RS
232
13 RI 125 Ring Indicator
4 MICROPHONE (+)
5 MICROPHONE (-)
10 SPEAKER (+)
Audio
15 SPEAKER (-)
Boot 3 BOOT For factory use only.
Reset 14 RESET To reset, connect to GND
momentarily. Open for normal
operation.

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 12
Chapter 2: Installation
Mechanical Mounting
To mount the Wireless MultiModem, do the following:
1. Obtain mounting screws (two are needed) that are appropriate for the surface on which you will
mount the modem. The mounting screw on the connector end of the unit must have a screw-
head no thicker than 2 mm. The allowable thickness is limited because the screw must fit
beneath the RS232 cable. The allowable thickness of the other screw-head is not limited in this
way.
= 2 mm
Screw Head
Clearance
Side View
For example, one might use two 6-32 self-tapping screws 5/8” in length to mount the unit in a
truck to the wall of the cab behind the passenger’s seat.
2. Typically, the unit is mounted against a flat surface into which holes can be drilled. The
mounting holes (center-to-center) must be separated by 125mm or 4 -15/16 inches.
Screw Separation
= 125 mm
or 4
1516
inches
Drill the mounting holes at the desired mounting location (if applicable).

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 13
3. Slide the mounting bridles into the corresponding slots on the backside of the modem chassis.
4. Attach the modem with two screws to the mounting surface at the desired location on the
equipment.

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 14
Electrical Installation & Configuration
The wireless MultiModem requires the power supply connection to begin operation. It also requires a
SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module) to operate on a GSM network. To install the modem, do the
following:
1. Using your fingernail or a small wedging tool (e.g., a small screwdriver), pry off the SIM cover.
2. Insert the SIM card into the holder.
3. Verify that the SIM card fits into the holder properly and then replace the cover.

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 15
4. Connect a suitable antenna to the SMA connector (see specifications on page 5).
Antenna Connector
(SMA type)
5. Connect both sides of the serial and control cable (15-pin Sub D connector on the modem side).
Serial & Control
Connector
To Serial Port
of PC

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 16
6. Plug the power supply cable into the modem.
Fused DC
Power Cable
In-Line
Fuse
7a. For standard transformer power supply.
•Connect the AC cord receptacle into the transformer block.
•Connect the AC cord plug into the mains power outlet.
7b. For optional direct-DC powering.
•Connect the direct-DC power supply cable into the DC power source on the vehicle or
machne in which you are mounting the modem. Be sure the GND connection is correct.
•Connect red wire to + (positive) and black wire to – (negative).
Note: Units shipped with the universal AC power supply are not suited for installation in hazardous
locations.
Note: For automotive application: according to the type of application, you can use permanent “+” or key-
switched “+”. Connect the power supply to its source (for example, in a mobile situation, to the
vehicle’s DC fuse/terminal block).
8. Activate the power supply.

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 17
Mobile Phonetools
For initial configuration of your wireless device, Multi-Tech offers a Windowsbased mobile Phone
Tools application.
To load mobile Phone Tools, click on the mobile Phone Tools icon on your MultiModem CD and
follow the on-screen prompts.
Direct Modem Installation
To install the Wireless MultiModem directly into the computer's Windows OS so it is independent of the
mobile Phonetools program, use the "Add Modem" command or equivalent for your OS. During this
installation, you will need to browse to the MultiModem's INF file (using the “Have Disk” option in the
installation process). This INF file is in the root directory of the MultiModem CD.
Verifying Signal Strength
The Wireless MultiModem establishes a call if the signal is sufficiently strong. To verify the signal
strength, do the following:
1. Using the HyperTerminal program at the computer to which the Wireless MultiModem is
connected, type the AT command AT+CSQ. A value for the received signal strength will be
returned.
2. Verify the result with the following chart:
Signal Strength Verification
Value of signal strength
(AT+CSQ response) (RSSI) Signal strength
10 - 31 Sufficient
0 - 9 Weak or Insufficient
99 Insufficient

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 18
Verifying Network Registration
In this procedure, you will verify that the Wireless MultiModem has been registered on the wireless
network. To do so, you will use the common communications program Hyperterminal.
1. Using the Hyperterminal program at the computer to which the Wireless MultiModem is
connected, type the AT command AT+CREG?. A value for the modem’s network registration
status will be returned.
2. Verify the result with the following chart:
Network Registration Verification
Value Network Registration Status
0, 1 Yes
0, 5 Yes
(registered roaming)
Note: If the modem is not registered, perform the procedure for verifying signal strength to determine the
strength of the received signal.

Chapter 2 – Installation
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 19
Testing the Configuration
Description AT
Commands
Response Returned Comments
AT+CPIN
=1234 OK PIN Code accepted
+CME ERROR : 16 Incorrect PIN Code
Enter PIN Code +CME ERROR : 3 PIN already entered (with +CMEE : 1 mode)
AT + CREG ? CREG = <mode>, 1 modem synchronized on the network
CREG = <mode>, 2 synchronization lost, re-synchronization
attempt
Module synchro
checking CREG = <mode>, 0 Modem not synchronized on network. No
synchronization attempt
RING
ATA Answer the call.
Receiving an
incoming call OK
ATD1234; Don’t forget the “;” at the end for “voice”
calls.
OK Communication established
CME ERROR :11 PIN Code not entered (with +CMEE : 1
mode)
Initiate a call
CME ERROR :3 AOC credit (Advice of Charge tells the user
how much a call will cost) has been
exceeded or a communication is already
established.
Initiate an
emergency call ATD112; OK Don’t forget the “;” at the end for “voice” calls.
Communication
loss NO CARRIER
ATHHang up OK
AT&WStore the
parameters in
non-volatile
memory
OK The communications program has saved
the configuration settings in non-volatile
memory.

Chapter 3 – Troubleshooting
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem® GPRS User Guide 20
Chapter 3: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Examples
Situation A: The modem does not answer through the serial link
If the Wireless MultiModem does not answer through the serial link upon an attempted transmission of
data or voice signals, see the table below for possible causes and solutions.
Solutions for ‘no connection through serial link’ situation
If the
modem
returns …
Then ask … Action
Is the modem
powered correctly?
Provide a power supply in the range of 5 to
32Vdc.
Is the serial cable
properly connected
to the modem and
PC sockets?
Connect cable per step 5 of the ”Electrical
Installation and Configuration” procedure. Verify
cable pinout per”RS232 15-Pin Connector Pinout”
table, esp Rx & Tx connections. Verify reception
& transmission.
Is the
communication
program properly
configured?
In communications program, verify that modem
parameters have been set to the values shown
here:
Data bits = 8
Parity = none
Stop Bits = 1
Baud = 115200 bps
(nothing)
Is another program
interfering with the
communication
program?
Close any such application program.