Paradox PCS250 User manual

PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator Module
V1.2
The Vital Link
Reference and Installation Manual
PARADOX.COM
Printed in Canada - 01/2013
PCS250-EI02

Table of Contents
Introduction ........................................................................ 4
Features .................................................................................................. 4
Overview ............................................................................... 6
System Components ......................................................................... 6
LED Feedback ....................................................................................... 7
SIM Card Functionality ...................................................................... 8
Tamper Switch Functionality ......................................................... 8
Specifications ....................................................................................... 9
Connections ......................................................................10
SIM Card Connection .......................................................................10
GSM vs. GPRS Connections ...........................................................12
Optional Power Supply Connections ........................................12
VDMP3 Connection (Optional - GSM mode only) .................12
Using an RS485 Link (GSM mode only) .....................................13
Using an External Power Input ....................................................14
Installation .........................................................................15
Antenna Extension Installation (Optional) ..............................15
Module Installation ..........................................................................15
Configuring the PCS250 ................................................16
Frequency Band ................................................................................16
Bandwidth Saver Mode ..................................................................16
Configuring GSM Network Provider Information .................16
Configuring WinLoad Access ......................................................18
Programming GSM Reporting Options ....................................18
Programming and Registering GPRS Reporting Options ..19
SMS Backup Reporting ...................................................................21
Configuring the PCS250 for SMS Backup Reporting ............21
Troubles ...............................................................................................23
Text message notification .............................................................24
SMS Language ...................................................................................24
Arm/Disarm System via Text Message ......................................25
List of SMS Commands ...................................................................25
Upload/Download ..........................................................27
Public Network (GPRS mode only) .............................................27
Private Network .................................................................................28
Module Supervision ........................................................29
End User SMS Programming ........................................................30
View GSM IP Information ...............................................................31
Text Messages ...................................................................33

Page 4 Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction
The PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator Module is the next
evolutionary step in wireless communication solutions for
Paradox control panels. Providing reliable and fast
communication between properties and their respective
monitoring stations, the PCS250 is the vital link that keeps you
connected.
Using cellular networks, the PCS250 reports to the monitoring
station’s automation software via two channels (GPRS/GSM),
ensuring that all communication is fast, reliable, and stable. The
PCS250 can be used as a backup to a traditional landline, or as a
primary communicator where no landline is available. It also adds
remote home control capabilities to a system, allowing you to
arm/disarm with a simple text message (SMS). Feel safe by taking
control of your system, wherever you are.
Re-imagined through an array of new technologies,
contemporary design, and a modern hi-tech finish, the PCS250
GPRS/GSM Communicator Module enables Paradox systems to
be remotely controlled, continuously monitored, and reliably
connected at all times.
Features
• Compact, sleek design
• Instant notification of panel supervision loss
• Easily arm/disarm the system via SMS
• Report alarms by sending pre-recorded voice messages to
up to eight telephone numbers using the optional Paradox
Plug-in Voice Module (VDMP3)
• Report alarms by text messages to up to 16 cellular phone
numbers
• Simple installation with 4-wire serial connection
• Supports 2 GSM provider SIM cards for provider redundancy
• Tamper switch support
• Optional rod antenna can be installed up to 18m (60ft) from
the module using optional antenna cable extensions
depending on the local signal strength
• Increase the distance between the panel and the PCS250
with an RS485 link (GSM mode only (E-bus)). A CVT485
module must be added at the panel.
• In GPRS mode, messages are secured with 128-bit (MD5) and
256-bit (AES) encryption

Introduction Page 5
Included Items
•Serialcable
•GPRS14Module
Required/Optional Items
• Active SIM card (required)
• Second SIM card (required for provider redundancy)
• Paradox Plug-In Voice Module VDMP3 (optional)
• Antenna extension (optional)
• 12 Vdc external power supply (optional)
Compatibility
• EVO48 and EVO192 panels V2.02 or higher
• K641 and K641R keypads V1.51 or higher
• SP series V3.42 with K32LCD keypads V1.22
• E55 panels V3.0 (labels to be programmed via Winload)
• E65 panels V2.1 (labels to be programmed via Winload)
• MG series V4.0 or higher with K32LCD keypads V1.22 or higher
For latest updates visit paradox.com

Page 6 Overview
Chapter 2: Overview
This section provides an overview of the Paradox PCS250
GPRS/GSM Communicator Module. It covers technical
specifications, light-emitting diode (LED) functionality, and an
overview of the PCS250 system components.
System Components
1) GPRS14 with dual SIM card slots
2) Audio jack
3) InField upgrade connector
4) Future use
5) RS485/power terminal
6) Future use
7) Serial cable connector
8) Tamper screw
9) Tamper switch
10) Audio module connector (e.g., VDMP3)
11) System LEDs (refer to “LED Feedback” on page 7)
1
2
3
4
765
10
11
9
8

Overview Page 7
LED Feedback
The following table provides a description of the PCS250
Communicator Module LEDs.
Communication Loss
Upon loss of communication with the panel, the PCS250 LEDs
will behave in the following manner:
1) GPRS or GSM LED displays are off; the SIM card and signal
strength LEDs display their status for about 3 seconds.
2) Signal strength LED remains OFF; GSM (green) is turned ON,
followed in turn by GPRS (green), SIM2 (orange) and SIM1
(red). When a LED is ON, all others are off. Each LED lights for
about 200 ms. This sequence is repeated two times.
3) This cycle repeats until communication is restored.
LED Feedback
SIM
Card 1
Solid green = SIM card 1 is installed on the GPRS14
Quick green flashing = SIM card 1 is exchanging data
Slow green flashing = Searching the network
Flash red (once) = SIM card 1 is defective
Off = SIM card 1 is not installed, not active, or
currently not in use
SIM
Card 2
Solid green = SIM card 2 is installed on the GPRS14
Quick green flashing = SIM card 2 is exchanging data
Slow green flashing = Searching the network
Flash red (once) = SIM card 2 is defective
Off = SIM card 2 is not installed, not active, or
currently not in use
GPRS Solid green = unit is set for GPRS operation
Quick green flashing = exchanging data
Note: When this LED is ON, the GSM LED stays OFF.
GSM Solid green = unit is set for GSM operation
Quick green flashing = exchanging data
Note: When this LED is ON, the GPRS LED
stays OFF.
Signal
Strength
LED 1, 2, and 3 (bottom three LEDs) indicate the
strength of the incoming antenna signal.

Page 8 Overview
SIM Card Functionality
The PCS250 provides dual SIM card support for provider
redundancy. If a SIM card encounters network connectivity
problems, the PCS250 will switch automatically to the other SIM
card (only if installed). The PCS250 will then try to communicate
and upon a successful communication, an SMS trouble message
will be reported to the assigned recipients.
If connectivity problems occur on SIM card 1, the PCS250 will
attempt to switch to SIM card 2. When successful, an SMS
message will be sent to the assigned recipients informing them
of the SIM card connectivity problem. If the panel is disarmed, the
PCS250 will try to switch back to SIM card 1 after a 15 minute
delay. If there is a connection problem on SIM card 1, it will retry
to switch back to SIM card 1 every 15 minutes, or until the system
is armed. If the system is armed, an attempt to switch back to SIM
card 1 will occur only at midnight, otherwise SIM card 2 will
remain the reporting channel until the system is disarmed.
Detecting network connectivity problems on one SIM will result
in a trouble message. Once the original SIM card connection is
restored, a new SMS message will be sent to the assigned
recipients informing them of the restore.
Note: The SIM Card 2 functionality is the same as SIM Card 1. Both
SIM cards must use the same communication method (either both in
GPRS mode or both in GSM mode) depending of the connection
method (E-bus or Serial).
Tamper Switch Functionality
Upon removal of the PCS250 from its original installation surface,
or if the PCS250 cover has been removed, a tamper switch open
condition is recognized and is communicated to the control
panel.
Note: If desired that the tamper switch activates upon removal of the
PCS250 from its installation surface, a screw must be installed in the
tamper screw hole, refer to “System Components” on page 6.
Once a “tamper switch open condition” has occurred, the control
panel will generate an alarm (if armed), or send a trouble
message to the keypad(s) (if disarmed). The control panel will
also report a GSM/GPRS module tamper to the monitoring
station and to SMS recipients assigned to receive trouble
notifications.

Overview Page 9
Once the PCS250’s tamper switch is closed, the panel will reset
the trouble message and a tamper restore message will be sent
to the monitoring station and to the SMS recipients. Also, upon
the closure of the PCS250’s tamper switch there is a 30s delay
before the PCS250 sends out a “tamper close” status to the panel.
The PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator Module’s tamper
functionality is supported with a compatible Paradox control
panel.
• MG/SP v4.90 and higher
• EVO192 v2.71 or higher
• SP4000/SP65 v5.10 or higher
Specifications
The following table describes the technical specifications of the
PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator Module.
Power Class 4 (2W) @ 850/900 MHz
Class 2 (1W) @ 1800/1900 MHz
Antenna Bandwidth 70 / 80 / 140 / 170 MHz
Antenna Gain <3dBi; impedance 50 ohm
Input power >2W peak power
Power Input 12Vdc nominal
Consumption 100 mA standby, average 450mA (1.2A
peak) during GPRS/GSM transmission
Operating
Temperature
0ºC to 50ºC (32ºF to 122ºF)
Encryption 128-bit (MD5 and RC4) or 256-bit (AES)
SMS Protocol 8-bit (IRA:ITU-T.50) or 16-bit (UCS2 ISO/
IEC10646)
Humidity 5-90%
Weight 200 gr (7.05 oz)
Dimensions 17.2 x 9.8 x 4.4 cm (6.8 x 3.9 x 1.7 in.)
Certification Please visit PARADOX.com for the latest
certification information

Page 10 Connections
Chapter 3: Connections
The following section guides you through the steps required to
connect the PCS250 prior to mounting the unit.
SIM Card Connection
The PCS250 connects to your Paradox control panel providing
wireless communication capabilities to report system events to a
monitoring station. The PCS250 supports two standard GSM
provider SIM cards. The SIM cards contains all your cellular
telephone account information. In order to activate your SIM
cards, you must contact your local GSM network provider.
Important: If provider redundancy is not required (SIM card 2),
ensure that SIM Card Tray 1 is used.
Note: Prior to setting up your PCS250, it is important that the
Personal Identification Number (PIN) of the SIM card be disabled.
Refer to your cellular phone’s manual for more information on how
to disable the PIN.
To install a SIM card:
1) Remove the front cover of the PCS250 Module. If the cover
is not installed, proceed to Step 2.
2) If an optional VDMP3 module is installed, disconnect the
VDMP3 before proceeding to the next step.
3) Slide the SIM card tray towards the left to unlock it, and then
flip the SIM card tray open, as shown in Figure 1.
Note: Open the SIM tray slowly to avoid damage to the tray.

Connections Page 11
4) Slide the SIM card into the tray with the cut-off corner
towards the top right. Close the SIM card tray and slide the
tray to the right to lock it into place.
5) Repeat steps 3 and 4 if you will be installing a secondary
SIM card for provider redundancy.
6) Reconnect the VDMP3 module.
Figure 1: SIM Card Installation
SIM 2
SIM CARD
UNLOCK
SIM 1
1
2
3

Page 12 Connections
GSM vs. GPRS Connections
The PCS250 is connected directly from the serial cable connector
located on the bottom of the unit to the Paradox control panel
using the provided serial cable.
Note: GSM and GPRS reporting cannot be conducted
simultaneously. To switch reporting methods, connect the serial
cable to the control panel’s Serial or E-bUS connector and then scan
the module. Refer to your Paradox control panel documentation for
more information on scanning modules.
Figure 2: GSM and GPRS Serial Connections
Optional Power Supply Connections
The PCS250 is designed to be powered by the control panel.
However, if you want the PCS250 to function even if the control
panel battery is low, or if power failures are anticipated, an
external power supply with a backup battery (such as the PS817)
can be used. For more information on connecting to an external
power supply visit paradox.com.
VDMP3 Connection (Optional - GSM mode only)
The Paradox Voice Module (VDMP3) can send pre-recorded voice
messages on up to eight phone numbers to report alarms via the
GSM cell phone network. This is done by mounting the VDMP3
directly on the PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator Module,
enabling the VDMP3 to dial out using the GSM cell phone
network. With the VDMP3 mounted onto the PCS250, the end
user can also arm/disarm, request system status, and control
PGMs from any telephone.

Connections Page 13
Note: When using the VDMP3, certain programming options must
be configured. Refer to the VDMP3 installation manual for more
information. As well, only one VDMP3 Voice Module can be installed,
either on the control panel or the PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator
Module.
If the VDMP3 module is installed and the GSM network reception
is weak, the volume setting can be adjusted to help improve the
VDMP3’s response to keys pressed on a telephone. The default
volume is 90; this allows for best communication. Valid range
values are between 50 to 100, anything outside of this range will
reset the volume to 90. To adjust the GSM volume the following
SMS command must be sent:
P[admin].VOLOUT.[volume value]
e.g., Padmin.VOLOUT.95
Where [admin] is the PCS250 default password (if the password
has been changed, enter in the new password) and [volume
value] is the new volume level. The PCS250 will receive the SMS
message and then adjust the volume setting accordingly.
Using an RS485 Link (GSM mode only)
When in GSM mode, a CVT485 module can be connected onto
the control panel’s serial port as an interface to lengthen the
distance between the panel and the PCS250. The serial cable
provided enables a connection of up to 1m (3 ft.) from the control
panel. If the PCS250 has to be installed further from the control
panel (e.g., better reception), the CVT485 converts serial to RS485
protocol, allowing a connection of up to 300m (1000 ft.) from the
control panel.
While the connection line A+ and B- of the RS485 connector can
be extended up to 300m (1000 ft.), the power lines (+12V and
ground connections of the RS485 connector) are subject to a
shorter length restriction which is based on the wire gauge (this
is due to a voltage drop in the lines during transmission). Please
refer to Using an External Power Input on page 14 for more details
on maximum wire length.
Note: It is possible to connect the RS485 A+ and B- lines to a CVT485
installed on a remote panel and power the PCS250 using a separate
12V power source with shorter wire lengths.

Page 14 Connections
Figure 3: CVT485 Connection
Using an External Power Input
When an external power input is used as a backup power supply,
or when the power lines of a RS485 adapter module (CVT485) are
used to power the PCS250, the following connections are
required:
• Screw 1 = +12V
•Screw2=ground
The maximum wire length for each of those power lines is as
follows:
• 12m (40 ft.) for AWG24
• 20m (65 ft.) for AWG22
• 30m (100 ft.) for AWG20
• 50m (160 ft.) for AWG18
+ - A+ B-
+ -
12 VDC
A+ B-
RS485
PCS250
GPRS14
Control Panel
CVT485
VDMP3
Up to 300m (1000 ft.)
* Up to 50m (160 ft.) AWG18
* or use an independent power source for the PCS250

Installation Page 15
Chapter 4: Installation
To improve RF reception an optional external antenna can be
installed together with an extension cable.
Antenna Extension Installation (Optional)
To Install the Antenna Extension:
1) Use the mounting bracket to mark the holes onto the
mounting surface.
2) Drill the holes and insert the antenna extension in the
bracket until it snaps into place.
3) Align the bracket and secure into place using the
appropriate mounting hardware.
Note: There are two knockout holes in the PCS250 enclosure.
The one located at the top of the enclosure is used for an
extension cable while the other one is used if an external
antenna is installed on the box (rod antenna).
Module Installation
The PCS250 must be securely mounted on a wall or similar
surface. It is important to mount it as far away as possible from
any electronic equipment. Ensure that it is mounted as high as
possible to ensure protection from RF interference.
To Mount the PCS250:
1) Use the module as a template to mark the five holes onto
the mountings surface (four mounting, one tamper).
2) Drill the holes.
3) Align the PCS250 and secure into place using the
appropriate hardware, as shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4: Mounting the Module

Page 16 Configuring the PCS250
Chapter 5: Configuring the PCS250
The PCS250 can be configured for GSM or GPRS reporting. In
order for the unit to provide GSM or GPRS reporting, certain
configurations must be set. These configurations include
modifying the frequency band, configuring GSM network
provider information, configuring the PCS250 for WinLoad
access, programming GSM reporting options, and registering and
programming GPRS reporting options.
Frequency Band
The PCS250 will automatically be set to a working frequency
according to your country.
Bandwidth Saver Mode
The PCS250 can turn off SIM card usage during system inactivity
until a new event is sent from the panel. The bandwidth saver
mode can be turned ON or OFF by sending the following SMS
message to the PCS250.
P[admin].BWS.[value]
e.g., Padmin.BWS.on
Where [admin] is the PCS250 default password (if the password
has been changed, enter in the new password) and [value] is
either ON or OFF to enable or disable bandwidth saver mode.
Note: The bandwidth saver mode is turned ON by default.
Configuring GSM Network Provider Information
To connect the PCS250 to the GPRS network, certain registration
parameters must be set (supplied by your GSM network
provider). These parameters include the Access Point Name, APN
User Name, and the APN Password. You can program this
information via your control panel or via an SMS command (SIM
card 2 can only programmed via an SMS command). To begin the
configuration of your GSM network provider information via a
control panel, enter the section programming in your panel.

Configuring the PCS250 Page 17
Note: When entering into GSM network provider sections, the LCD
screen of the control panel’s keypad will display either “Labels” or
“Messages”.
To configure your GSM network provider information via an SMS
command, enter the following SMS commands.
Important: SIM card 2 can only be programmed via SMS. The SMS
needs to be sent to SIM card 1 in order to program SIM card 2.
Note: When programming the second SIM card, replace APN1 with
APN2 and VAPN1 with VAPN2 in the SMS command. Refer to “List of
SMS Commands” on page 25 to view the commands for SIM card 2.
MG/SP/E EVO Feature
[921] [2960] APN part 1
(characters 1 - 16)
[922] [2961] APN part 2
(characters 17 - 32)
[923] [2962] APN user name part 1
[924] [2963] APN user name part 2
[925] [2964] APN password part 1
[926] [2965] APN password part 2
IMPORTANT: This information can be obtained from your GSM
network provider.
P[password].APN1.NAME.[Access
Point Name]
Used to program the SIM
card 1 Access Point Name
P[password].APN1.USER.[Access
Point Name]
Used to program the SIM
card 1 Access Point User
P[password].APN1.PSW.[Access
Point Name]
Used to program the SIM
card 1 Access Point
Password
P[password].APN1.CLEAR Used to clear the SIM
card 1 Access Point Name
P[password].VAPN1.[CALL BACK
PHONE NUMBER]
Used to view the SIM card 1
Access Point Name
information

Page 18 Configuring the PCS250
Configuring WinLoad Access
The PCS250 GPRS/GSM Communicator Module provides remote
access for upload and download with WinLoad via a GPRS
connection. The following site specific sections must be
configured for WinLoad access.
Note: In the case where a reportable event occurs while a WinLoad
session is active via GPRS, the communication is terminated to allow
event reporting.
Programming GSM Reporting Options
The following sections describe the options that must be
programmed in the panel for GSM reporting.
Note: The primary phone number is configured via section [815]; the
backup phone number is configured in section [817]. A land/GSM
account number must be defined in sections [811] and [812] for MG/
SP/E and for EVO in sections [3061] through [3068].
MG/SP/E EVO Feature Details
[920] [2966] Software port Default: 10000
[927] [3013] Password Default: admin
MG/
SP/E EVO Details
[805] [2950] [1] Off + [2] Off = Landline only (default)
[1] Off + [2] On = Landline primary / GSM
backup
[1] On + [2] Off = GSM primary / landline
backup
[1] On + [2] On = GSM only

Configuring the PCS250 Page 19
Programming and Registering GPRS Reporting
Options
The following sections describe the options that must be
programmed in the panel for GPRS reporting. Control panels with
a PCS250 can also report system events to a monitoring station’s
IPR512 GPRS/IP Monitoring Receiver.
MG/
SP/E EVO Feature Details
[918]
[919]
[2976] Account /
partition
registration
MG/SP/E: sections
represent account /
partition 1 & 2
EVO: sections represent
account / partition 1 to 8
to
[2983]
[806] [2975] [7] Off + [8] Off = Landline only
[7] Off + [8] On = GPRS primary / landline
backup (default)
[7] On + [8] Off = Landline only
[7] On + [8] On = Landline & GPRS in parallel

Page 20 Configuring the PCS250
Receiver Settings MG/SP/E
Receiver #:
IP address*
IP port**
IP address WAN2
IP port WAN2
Receiver
password
†
Security profile
1
[929]
[930]
[931]
[932]
[933]
[934]
2
[936]
[937]
[938]
[939]
[940]
[941]
Backup
[943]
[944]
[945]
[946]
[947]
[948]
Module
registration -
press [ARM] to
register
[935] [942] [949]
Receiver Settings EVO
Receiver #:
IP address*
IP port**
IP address WAN2
IP port WAN2
Receiver
password
†
Security profile
1
[2984]
2
[2986]
3
[2988]
4
[2990]
Module
registration -
press [ARM] to
register
[2985] [2987] [2989] [2991]
* For 1 or 2 digit numbers, add “0s” before the digit: e.g.,
138.002.043.006
** Default 10000
†Enter [MEM] for blank space
Note: When entering into Receiver Settings sections, the LCD
screen of the control panel’s keypad will display “Data” for the
receiver password and security profiles sections.