Paradox PCS250G User manual

PCS250G GPRS Communicator Module
V1.3
The Vital Link
Reference and Installation Manual
PARADOX.COM
Printed in Canada - 08/2013
PCS250G-EI01

Page 3
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
GPRS Connections ............................................................................11
Communication Bridge ..................................................................12
Optional Power Supply Connections ........................................13
Using an External Power Input ....................................................13
Installation .........................................................................14
Antenna Extension Installation (Optional) ..............................14
Module Installation ..........................................................................14
Configuring the PCS250G .............................................15
Frequency Band ................................................................................15
Bandwidth Saver Mode ..................................................................15
SMS Forwarding ................................................................................15
Configuring GSM Network Provider Information .................16
Configuring WinLoad Access .......................................................18
Programming and Registering GPRS Reporting Options ..18
SMS Backup Reporting ................................................................... 20
Configuring the PCS250G for SMS Backup Reporting ........ 20
Troubles ...............................................................................................22
Text message notification .............................................................22
SMS Language ...................................................................................23
Arm/Disarm System via Text Message...................................... 24
List of SMS Commands ................................................................... 25
Upload/Download ..........................................................26
Public Network (GPRS mode only) .............................................26
Private Network .................................................................................27
Module Supervision ........................................................28
End User SMS Programming ........................................................ 29
View GPRS IP Information ..............................................................30
Text Messages ...................................................................32
Troubleshooting ..............................................................36

Page 4 Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction
The PCS250G GPRS Communicator Module, leverages the GPRS
data channel to provide wireless communication solutions for
Paradox control panels. It offers reliable and fast communication
between properties and their respective monitoring stations, the
PCS250G is the vital link that keeps you connected.
Using cellular networks, the PCS250G reports to the monitoring
station’s automation software via GPRS, ensuring that all
communication is fast, reliable, and stable. The PCS250G 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.
With its contemporary design, and a modern hi-tech finish, the
PCS250G GPRS 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 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
• In GPRS mode, messages are secured with 128-bit (MD5) and
256-bit (AES) encryption
• Certification: EN 50136 ATS 5 Class II, Certification Body
Intertek

Introduction Page 5
Included Items
•Serialcable
• GPRS14G Module
Required/Optional Items
• Active SIM card (required)
• Second SIM card (required for provider redundancy - full
backup for SIM Card 1)
• 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
•E55panelsV3.0(labelstobe programmed via Winload)
•E65panelsV2.1(labelstobe programmed via Winload)
• MG series V4.0 or higher with K32LCD keypads V1.22 or higher
• IP150 Internet Module V2.0 or higher
For latest updates visit paradox.com

Page 6 Overview
Chapter 2: Overview
This section provides an overview of the Paradox PCS250G
GPRS Communicator Module. It covers technical specifications,
light-emitting diode (LED) functionality, and an overview of the
PCS250G system components.
System Components
1) GPRS14G with dual SIM card slots
2) InField upgrade connector
3) Future use
4) Power terminal
5) Serial cable connector
6) Tamper screw hole
7) Tamper switch
8) System LEDs (refer to “LED Feedback” on page 7)
1
2
3
5
8
7
64

Overview Page 7
LED Feedback
The following table provides a description of the PCS250G
Communicator Module LEDs.
Communication Loss
Upon loss of communication with the panel, the PCS250G LEDs
will behave in the following manner:
1) GPRS LED displays is off; the SIM card and signal strength
LEDs display their status for about 3 seconds.
2) Signal strength LED remains OFF; GPRS (green) is turned
ON, followed in turn by 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 GPRS14G
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 GPRS14G
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
GSM Option not available on the PCS250G.
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 PCS250G provides dual SIM card support for provider
redundancy. If a SIM card encounters network connectivity
problems, the PCS250G will switch automatically to the other SIM
card (only if installed). The PCS250G 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 PCS250G 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
PCS250G 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 (both in GPRS
mode.
Tamper Switch Functionality
Upon removal of the PCS250G from its original installation
surface, or if the PCS250G 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
PCS250G 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 GPRS module tamper to the monitoring station and
to SMS recipients assigned to receive trouble notifications.

Overview Page 9
Once the PCS250G’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 PCS250G’s tamper switch there is a 30s delay
before the PCS250G sends out a “tamper close” status to the
panel.
The PCS250G GPRS 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
• IP150 v2.0 or higher
Specifications
The following table describes the technical specifications of the
PCS250G GPRS 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 transmission
Operating
Temperature
0ºC to 50ºC (32ºF to 122ºF)
Encryption 128-bit (MD5 and RC4) or 256-bit (AES)
SMS Protocol 8-bit (ISO/IEC 8859-1) 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 EN 50136 ATS 5 Class II, Certification
Body Intertek

Page 10 Connections
Chapter 3: Connections
The following section guides you through the steps required to
connect the PCS250G prior to mounting the unit.
SIM Card Connection
The PCS250G connects to your Paradox control panel providing
wireless communication capabilities to report system events to a
monitoring station. The PCS250G 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 PCS250G, 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 PCS250G Module. If the cover
is not installed, proceed to Step 2.
2) 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.
3) 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.
4) Repeat steps 2 and 3 if you will be installing a secondary
SIM card for provider redundancy.

Connections Page 11
Figure 1: SIM Card Installation
GPRS Connections
The PCS250G is connected directly from the serial cable
connector located on the bottom of the unit to the serial
connector of the panel using the provided serial cable.
Figure 2: GPRS Serial Connections
SIM 2
SIM CARD
UNLOCK
SIM 1
1
2
3

Page 12 Connections
Communication Bridge
When using a modified IP150 cable, the IP150 Internet Module
and the PCS250G are interlinked to the control panel and
communicate together to report alarms to the IP/GPRS
monitoring receiver (IPRS-7 or IPR512). In the case of IP
communication troubles, the PCS250G will automatically take
over and report all system events to the respective monitoring
station providing you reliable protection. This is all achieved
between the control panel, reporting devices, and the
monitoring receivers.
Follow the below instructions to interlink the IP150, PCS250G,
and the control panel.
To interconnect the modules
1. Connect the micro connector side of the modified IP150
cable to the PCS250/G port of the IP150.
2. Connect the other side of the modified IP150 cable to the
Serial port of the PCS250G.
IP150 Internet Module
Modified IP150
Cable
PCS250G
Serial Port
Paradox Control Panel PCS250/G Port

Connections Page 13
Optional Power Supply Connections
The PCS250G is designed to be powered by the control panel.
However, if you want the PCS250G 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.
Using an External Power Input
When an external power input is used as a backup power supply,
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

Page 14 Installation
Chapter 3: Installation
Antenna Extension Installation (Optional)
Use an EXT in conjunction with an ANTKIT to extend your
antenna for improved RF reception.
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 PCS250G 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 PCS250G 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 PCS250G:
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 PCS250G and secure into place using the
appropriate hardware, as shown in Figure 4.
Figure 3: Mounting the Module

Configuring the PCS250G Page 15
Chapter 4: Configuring the PCS250G
The PCS250G can be configured for GPRS reporting. In order for
the unit to provide GPRS reporting, certain configurations must
be set. These configurations include configuring GSM network
provider information, configuring the PCS250G for WinLoad
access, and registering and programming GPRS reporting
options.
Frequency Band
The PCS250G will automatically be set to a working frequency
according to your country.
Bandwidth Saver Mode
The PCS250G 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 PCS250G.
P[admin].BWS.[value]
e.g., Padmin.BWS.on
Where [admin] is the PCS250G 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.
SMS Forwarding
Communicating Using Text Messages
You can communicate with your security system using text
messages (SMS) by using a system accessory called the PCS250G
GSM Module (sold separately).
The GSM module allows you to program up to 8 phone numbers:
• Support to program multiple SMS forwarding phone
numbers.
• If an SMS forwarding number is programmed, there are 7
programmable phone numbers remaining send text
messages.
• If NO SMS forwarding number is programmed, there are 8
programmable phone numbers remaining send text
messages.
Consult your installer for more information.

Page 16 Configuring the PCS250G
Programming Phone Numbers At The Panel
To program your PCS250G to forward all SMS coming in from a
specific number, simply add the letter "P" in front of the phone
number you program through the panel:
• You would program (P5145551234) to forward
• You would program (5145551234) to send text messages
Forwarding SMS Text Messages
To forward SMS text messages (received by your system) you
need to:
• Program the 1 telephone number that sends text
notifications to your system.
• Select “trouble” event group to forward SMS text messages.
• All messages from this phone number will automatically be
forwarded to the remaining phone numbers programmed to
receive text messages and select trouble event groups from
the system.
Receiving Text Messages
To receive text messages from your system you need to:
• Program the telephone numbers you wish to receive text
notifications.
• Select which event groups (alarm, arm/disarm, trouble and
trouble restore) will generate text messages.
• Select which partition the phone number is assigned to.
Configuring GSM Network Provider Information
To connect the PCS250G 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 PCS250G 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 PCS250G
Configuring WinLoad Access
The PCS250G GPRS 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 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 PCS250G can also report system events to a monitoring
station’s IPR512 GPRS/IP Monitoring Receiver.
MG/SP/E EVO Feature Details
[920] [2966] Software port Default: 10000
[927] [3013] Password Default: admin
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

Configuring the PCS250G Page 19
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.

Page 20 Configuring the PCS250G
SMS Backup Reporting
The PCS250G GPRS Communicator Module supports SMS backup
reporting to an IPRS-7 (IP/GPRS PC Receiver Software) when used
in conjunction with a compatible Paradox control panel.
• SP5500/SP6000/SP7000 v4.76
• EVO192 v2.65
• SP4000/SP65 v4.94
This advanced feature assures continuous communication with
the protected premises. With the addition of a GSM/GPRS
modem, the IPRS-7 software will be able to receive alarm signals
through SMS text messages when GPRS communication is
disrupted. Should the GPRS channel fail to transmit from a
protected premise because of a power outage or internet failure,
a backup SMS will automatically be sent to the IPRS-7 (containing
the same CID information of the reportable event).
Configuring the PCS250G for SMS Backup Reporting
Enter the following command to program the receiver’s SMS
parameters:
1) Send the SMS command:
P[PASSWORD].SMS.[GSM MODEM TELEPHONE #].[IPRS-7
PASSWORD](e.g., Padmin.SMS.5145551111.123456)
2) Wait two minutes. The PCS250G will automatically register
to the IPRS-7 receiver. This will automatically program the
Backup IP receiver, IP address, port and port as follows:
IP address = 000.000.000.001
IP password = IPRS7 password
Port number = 00001
Backup IP receiver section reference:
Control Panel IP
address Port Password
Register
IP/GPRS
module
SP Series [943] [944] [947] [949]
EVO Series
(IP Receiver #4)
[2990] [2991]