Multitech MultiModem MTCBA-G-UF1 User manual

Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
MultiModem® GPRS
External Wireless USB Modem
Data/Fax/Voice
MTCBA-G-UF1
MTCBA-G-UF2
User Guide
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 1

Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 2
User Guide for MultiModem® GPRS
External Data/Fax/Voice USB Wireless Modem
Models MTCBA-G-UF1 & MTCBA-G-UF2
P/N S000346E, Revision E
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 07/13/04 Initial Release
B 04/04/05 Changed model nomenclature to GPRS.
C 05/05/05 Revised installation procedures.
D 09/15/05 Add WEEE update to User Guide.
E 10/13/05 Change temperature range, added humidity rating, changed modem maintenance,
and warranty chapter.
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.
Patents
This device is covered by one or more of the following patents: 6,031,867; 6,012,113; 5,724,356;
5,673,268; 5,628,030; 5,450,425; 5,355,365. Other patents pending.
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 & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB 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
Current Requirements ..........................................................................................................................................10
LED Indicators.....................................................................................................................................................11
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLATION..............................................................................................................................12
MECHANICAL MOUNTING.........................................................................................................................................12
INSERTING SIM/R-UIM CARD INTO HOLDER (GSM ONLY)....................................................................................14
CONNECTING THE ANTENNA.....................................................................................................................................15
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION (WINDOWS XP/2000).....................................................................................................16
Part A: Preparing the Setup.................................................................................................................................16
Part B: Installing the USB Driver........................................................................................................................17
Part C: Associating PC Port with USB Driver ....................................................................................................21
Part D: Identifying the Port Number....................................................................................................................23
Part E: Installing the Modem INF File................................................................................................................23
CONNECTING THE OPTIONAL HANDSET....................................................................................................................28
MOBILE PHONETOOLS...............................................................................................................................................28
VERIFYING SIGNAL STRENGTH .................................................................................................................................28
VERIFYING NETWORK REGISTRATION ......................................................................................................................29
TESTING THE CONFIGURATION .................................................................................................................................30
UNINSTALLING THE MODEM SOFTWARE...................................................................................................................31
CHAPTER 3: TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................................................33
TROUBLESHOOTING EXAMPLES ................................................................................................................................33
Situation A: The modem always returns «Error» when trying to issue a communication...................................33
Situation B: The modem always returns «No carrier» when trying to issue a communication...........................34
GSM/GPRS GENERAL FAQ.....................................................................................................................................35
GSM/GPRS FAQ ON THE IP STACK.........................................................................................................................37
FAQ FOR MOBILE PHONETOOLS V2.1 ......................................................................................................................38
CHAPTER 4: SAFETY ............................................................................................................................................39
SAFETY.....................................................................................................................................................................39
General Safety......................................................................................................................................................39
Vehicle Safety.......................................................................................................................................................39
Maintenance of GPRS Modem.............................................................................................................................40
Your Responsibility...............................................................................................................................................40
CHAPTER 5: WARRANTY AND REPAIRS........................................................................................................41
Replacement Parts................................................................................................................................................42
CHAPTER 6: REFERENCE INFORMATION.....................................................................................................43
WIRELESS MODEM REFERENCE INFORMATION.........................................................................................................43
APPENDIX A - WASTE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (WEEE) STATEMENT.......44

Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 4
Chapter 1: Product Description and
Specifications
Product Description
The Multi-Tech MultiModem® GPRS is an external data/fax/voice wireless modem with an USB interface. It also
supports mobile originated short message service (SMS) and mobile-terminated SMS. Designed for global use, 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® GPRS is based on industry-standard open interfaces, is fully type approved, and can be desktop or
panel mounted.
Package Contents
Basic Package
one modem
mounting bracket(s)
one Quick Start Guide
Bundled Package
all Basic Package items, plus
one USB cable (with Series A to Series B connectors)
one antenna
four adhesive-backed rubber feet for table-top mounting
one product CD
Interfaces
The Wireless MultiModem has several interfaces:
•LED function indicating operating status
•External antenna (via SMA connector)
•Serial and control link (via USB connector)
•Microphone and speaker (via handset 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
In the bundled package, the Wireless MultiModem is shipped with an antenna suited for it.
However, if the antenna supplied does not meet your application requirements (for size, shape,
mounting style, etc.), you must supply an antenna yourself. In general, the antenna used must be
both of the correct frequency and of a style appropriate to the application. See the Antenna/RF
Specifications section below.

Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 5
Antenna/RF Specifications
GSM 850
Frequency RX 869 to 894 MHz
Frequency TX 824 to 849 MHz
RF Power Stand 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 product 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 product 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. Normally, this phone number is *99***1# .

Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB 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 & Specifications
Application Overview
Application Types
With circuit switched data rates up to 14.4K bps, the MultiModem® GPRS 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.
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Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 8
Benefits/Features in Applications
Short Development Time. The MultiModem® GPRS 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® GPRS 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® GPRS offers SMS features such as text and PDU,
point-to-point (MT/MO) and cell broadcast.
Compatible Supplementary Services. The MultiModem® GPRS 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® GPRS provides advanced management features
including phone book management, fixed dialing number, and real time clock and alarm
management.
Industry-standard Modem Commands. The MultiModem® GPRS provides industry-standard AT-
style commands for ease of integration into your existing software application.
Industrial Chassis. The MultiModem® GPRS is packaged in a rugged, water resistant, industrial
chassis. The chassis has a USB connector for power and data. It has an SMA antenna connector.
It also has modular phone handset receptacle. 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® GPRS 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 GPRS supports PBCCH and coding
schemes CS1 to CS4, and is compliant with SMG31bis.
Circuit-Switched Data (CSD). The MultiModem® GPRS 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® GPRS 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 & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB 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 USB 12 Mbps. 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 & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 10
Specifications
General Specifications
Mechanical Dimensions & Weight 4.3" w x 2.4" h x 0.94" d; 3.6 oz.
(11 cm x 6.1 cm x 2.4 cm; 102 g)
Connectors & Fasteners Antenna Connection type: SMA jack
Data/Power Connector: USB Series A receptacle
Phone Handset: Modular Handset 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
Current Requirements
GSM/GPRS 850/900 GSM/GPRS 1800/1900
Parameters Typ. Typ. Unit
Input average supply current in
comm. mode at Pmax
360 300 mA
Input average supply current in idle
mode
30 30 mA

Chapter 1 – Description & Specifications
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB 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.

Chapter 2 – Installation
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 MultiModem. 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.
125 mm
or 4
1516
inches
Mounting Bracket Locations (2)
Spacing of Mounting Screws
Drill the mounting holes at the desired mounting location (if applicable).

Chapter 2 – Installation
3. Slide the mounting brackets into the corresponding slots on the backside of the MultiModem
chassis.
NOTE: Some MultiModem units will be shipped with a single mounting bracket.
Slide it through the channel on the MultiModem chassis
and secure it with screws.
4. Attach the MultiModem with two screws to the mounting surface at the desired location on the
equipment.
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Chapter 2 – Installation
Inserting SIM/R-UIM Card into Holder (GSM Only)
The wireless MultiModem requires a SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module) to operate on a GSM network. Some
CDMA networks, mostly in China, require an R-UIM card (Removable User Identity Module). To install the card,
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.
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Chapter 2 – Installation
Connecting the Antenna
Connect a suitable antenna to the SMA connector (see “Antenna/RF Specifications” in the User
Guide).
Antenna Connector
(SMA Type)
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 15

Chapter 2 – Installation
Software Installation (Windows XP/2000)
There are five parts to this procedure:
Part A: Preparing the Setup
Part B: Installing the USB Driver
Part C: Associating the PC Port with the USB Driver
Part D: Identifying the Port Number
Part E: Installing the Modem INF File
Part A: Preparing the Setup
1. CAUTION! DO NOT connect the MultiModem to the PC at this point. Follow the steps below in
sequence. Premature connection of the USB cable will cause the installation to fail.
If you have already plugged in the USB cable prematurely, cancel out of the installation wizard and
follow the instructions below.
Insert the MultiModem Product CD into your CDROM drive. Insertion of the product CD will trigger
the Autorun feature. At the MultiModem Autorun screen, click USB Installer.
2. After a brief delay (and one transient screen), the “MultiModem Setup -- Welcome” screen will appear.
Click Next.
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Chapter 2 – Installation
Part B: Installing the USB Driver
3. After a brief transient progress screen, the Choose the Options screen will appear. Select Install
MultiTech Wireless USB Modem and click Next.
4. A ‘Windows Logo Testing’ screen will appear.
Click Continue Anyway.
5. Transient screens will appear while files are being copied.
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Chapter 2 – Installation
6. CAUTION! Do not click OK at this screen until the stated conditions have been met. Clicking OK
prematurely will cause the installation to fail.
Connect the USB cable between the MultiModem and the computer. Wait while Windows prepares
the installation.
The screen above will stay open behind other screens.
You will need to access it later (see step 17).
Here begins the first of two installation sequences,
the first for the USB driver, the second for the port.
A New Hardware Found bubble will emerge from the tray area (lower right corner) of the screen and
appear briefly.
7. The Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard screen will appear. This is the beginning of the
“Found New Hardware” sequence for the USB driver.
Select “No, not this time” and click Next.
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Chapter 2 – Installation
8. The next screen says “This wizard helps you install software for:” and then names the USB driver by
type.
Select “Install the software automatically” and then
click Next.
9. A transient screen appears while files are being copied.
10. A second ‘Windows Logo Testing’ screen will appear. This screen pertains to the USB driver.
Click Continue Anyway.
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Chapter 2 – Installation
11. When the Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard screen appears, click “Finish.”
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem®GPRS with USB User Guide 20