q-Tech sms lite User manual

SMS Lite 4G
User Guide
SMS Lite 4G
Version 2.3

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
2
Contents
About This User Guide......................................................................................................5
Product Overview.............................................................................................................5
Features...................................................................................................................................5
Getting Started.................................................................................................................6
Antenna Connection.................................................................................................................6
SIM Card Installation................................................................................................................6
Inputs ......................................................................................................................................7
Output Relays ..........................................................................................................................7
DC Power Supply......................................................................................................................7
Basic Configuration...........................................................................................................8
Register Phone 1 (Ph1) –Master User.......................................................................................8
Connect the I/O........................................................................................................................9
Activate an Input......................................................................................................................9
Acknowledge the Alarm ...........................................................................................................9
Operate an Output...................................................................................................................9
Additional Configuration ................................................................................................10
Naming Conventions ..............................................................................................................10
Additional Phone Numbers.....................................................................................................10
Configuration Options ............................................................................................................10
Escalations.............................................................................................................................11
Advanced Commands.....................................................................................................12
Debouncing Inputs .................................................................................................................12
Clearing Configuration Settings...............................................................................................12
Supply Voltage Alarm.............................................................................................................12
Message Paths ............................................................................................................... 13
Alarms............................................................................................................................13
Alarm Acknowledgements......................................................................................................14
Alarm Messages for Escalations..............................................................................................14
Alarm Escalations Stop After Delivery.....................................................................................14
Other Alarm Messages ...........................................................................................................14
Information Commands..................................................................................................15
Output Control...............................................................................................................16
Status LED ......................................................................................................................16
Status Indication ....................................................................................................................16
Error Code Indication..............................................................................................................16
Troubleshooting............................................................................................................. 17
Performing a Verification Test ................................................................................................17
Troubleshooting Tips......................................................................................................19
General Tips and Information .........................................................................................20

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
3
Programming Tips .......................................................................................................... 21
PIN Required for any Configuration Text.................................................................................21
Clear An Individual Phone Number .........................................................................................21
Replace An Individual Phone Number .....................................................................................21
Clear All Settings ....................................................................................................................21
Output Permissions Default....................................................................................................21
Empty Configuration Values ...................................................................................................21
Active Alarm Interruption.......................................................................................................21
Error Message........................................................................................................................21
Case Sensitivity ......................................................................................................................21
Technical Specifications.................................................................................................. 22
SMS Lite Specification ............................................................................................................22
Configuration Worksheet ...............................................................................................23
Warranty........................................................................................................................24
Additional Information and Support ...............................................................................24

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
4
Copyright 2022
QTech Data Systems Limited
Christchurch, New Zealand
All rights reserved.
The circuit details, software algorithms and know how disclosed in this document are proprietary to
QTech Data Systems Limited and shall remain the intellectual property of
QTech Data Systems Limited.
DISCLAIMER
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on any part of QTech Data Systems Limited. While the information contained herein is
assumed to be accurate, QTech Data Systems Limited assumes no responsibility
for any errors or omissions.
Contact QTech
QTech Data Systems Limited
12 Midas Place, Middleton
Christchurch 8024
New Zealand
Phone: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.qtech.co.nz
Revision Details
Version
Date
Author
Change Description
V1.0
10/11/14
IH
Original Format
V1.1
23/02/15
RH, FA
Addition of ‘debounce’ option for inputs & formatting update
V1.2
13/03/15
FA
Reword escalation sentence pg10. Edit diagram for Input / Output
V1.3
22/08/16
RH
Minor alterations to suit V3.00 Firmware
V1.4
20/09/16
RH
Added SIM Busy error code
V1.5
23/02/18
GP
Added notices to clarify security conditions required for messages to be
processed. Added additional information on LED error codes
V1.6
11/02/19
RH
Added variable length pulse command
V1.7
12/07/19
GP
Added troubleshooting section
V1.8
1/08/19
AM
Added LE910 modem specifications. Amended text for legibility and naming
consistency
V1.9
15/04/20
PW
Add product number to version control
V1.10
18/02/21
PW
Add programming tip to avoid spaces in naming conventions
V2.0
10/11/21
AM
New document format, minor updates and corrections
V2.1
13/1/22
GP
Minor corrections to debounce, add test command
V2.2
29/3/22
GP
Minor additions to defaults and inputs sections
V2.3
1/12/22
AM
Additional troubleshooting, basic configuration section and message format help

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
5
About This User Guide
This document aids with the installation and operation of the QTech SMS Lite system. Included in this
document is:
•How to install the SMS Lite module
•SMS Lite operation
•Device Configuration
•Device Specifications
Contact QTech for application notes, which can be obtained to provide guidance for specific
configuration scenarios, detailing the configuration workflow steps.
Product Overview
The SMS Lite is a cellular remote-control device that uses text messages to provide up to four people
with status conditions, notifications, and control options for its four switched inputs and two relay
outputs. It is operational within minutes with the minimum configuration requirement being the
registering of a single cellular number to the SMS Lite. No external software is required.
The SMS Lite supports connection to current New Zealand telecommunications companies
(Spark/Vodafone/2Degrees) and selected Australian Networks including Telstra and Optus but not all
frequency band classes. Contact QTech for advice on supported networks if necessary.
Each SMS Lite is supplied with the following:
-Qty 1x SMS Lite Module (P/N PD8640-4G)
-Qty 1x Antenna (stub type), 2dBi gain (P/N PD9230)
The power supply is not included - please order a plug pack P/N PD5412 if required or visit our website
for suitable alternatives.
Features
•4 digital inputs
•2 digital outputs
•12-24V DC operation or solar powered with the optional RSS01 Remote Solar Station.
•3G Bands (MHz) B1(2100), B5(850), B8(900)
•4G Bands (MHz) B1(2100), B3(1800), B5(850), B8(900) B28(700)
•Configuration by text messaging, no programming software required
Please read this guide before using the SMS Lite or connecting ANY external devices to it.
This version of the SMS Lite is configured for NZ and AU cellular networks only.
For use in other countries, please contact QTech.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
6
Getting Started
Antenna Connection
Carefully connect the antenna. The antenna must be vertically orientated.
Alternative high gain and externally mounting antenna options are available.
Warning –DO NOT operate the SMS Lite without an antenna connected.
SIM Card Installation
Before installing the SIM card, ensure that it is registered and activated on the Telco’s network.
We recommend you insert the SIM into a regular cell phone and check that you can send and receive
messages. Carefully remove the SMS Lite cover by prising the side panels close to the retaining
dimples.
Locate the SIM card holder adjacent to the antenna. Push the top of the holder in the direction of the
“Open” arrows to “Unlock” (toward antenna), then flip open (away from the antenna).
Carefully insert the SIM card from your chosen Telco. Be careful to orientate the card correctly, once
in place carefully slide the plastic retainer towards the antenna to “Lock”.
Unlock Holder Lift & Insert SIM Close Holder Lock Holder
Antenna must
be vertical if
mounted flat
Antenna must
be vertical when
wall mounted
Parallel
to wall
surface
Perpendicular
to flat surface
The SIM card must be a standard “full size” card, not a micro or nano SIM.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
7
Inputs
The SMS Lite inputs are to be connected to switches or mechanical contacts.
The default input names are: INP1, INP2, INP3, INP4, which can be renamed.
An input is active or ON when the input switch is closed and
inactive or OFF when the input switch is open.
Close the switch contact to turn “INP1” “ON”.
Warning –Only mechanical switches or mechanical closure devices should be
connected to the inputs. DO NOT connect external voltage or other electrical
source to the inputs.
Output Relays
The output relays are normally open devices with a maximum rating of 32V DC at a current of 2A.
The relays can switch DC low voltage, low current devices directly.
However, we recommend using interface relays as they improve future serviceability and are required
or higher voltages or currents.
The relays are internally protected by solid state snubbers for operating with inductive loads.
The default output relay names are: RLY1, RLY2, RLY3, RLY41, which can be renamed.
The output relays are normally open contacts.
Send “ON” command to close “RLY1” operating light.
Warning –DO NOT directly connect to 220V AC voltage. The New Zealand and
Australian wiring regulations require that any wiring in excess of 32 volts must be
carried out or be certified by a registered electrician. Consult your local electrical
installer for further guidance.
DC Power Supply
Connect a suitable 12-24V DC power supply to the 2.1mm socket labelled “12V DC”.
QTech recommends plug pack P/N PD5412 or power supplies PD5413 & PD5414.
Warning –DO NOT use Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) with this
product. The DC power supply used for this product MUST have a grounded
negative or be a “linear” transformer-based plug pack. The reason is that the
antenna, programming port and external connections can provide exposed earth
points and the SMPS can impose an AC voltage on the DC ground, which can lead
to damage.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
8
Basic Configuration
To operate the SMS Lite, the device must have a mobile number registered as ‘Phone 1’ referred to as
Ph1. You must register this number before you can configure any of the inputs or outputs.
The SMS Lite can have up to 4 phone numbers registered.
We recommend you follow these quick functional tests before performing advanced configuration.
This will help prove the SIM card, cellular network connection, device functionality and simplify
potential troubleshooting.
Register Phone 1 (Ph1) –Master User
Use this procedure to program the master user.
1. Locate the PIN (Personal Identification Number) printed inside your SMS Lite case.
The PIN in this example is 12345.
2. Compose text message to the SMS Lite mobile number in the following format:
#[PIN][space]Ph1:number=0123456789[dot] (e.g. #12345 Ph1:number=027987654.)
3. A confirmation text will be sent to you acknowledging a configuration change.
SMS Lite
SMS Lite
You have changed the
configuration of the SMS
Lite. Send “INPUTS”,
“OUTPUTS”, or
“PHONES” to view the
configuration.
#12345 ph1:number=027987654.
Each configuration command must be finished with a full stop (.)
The PIN is used each time a configuration change is made
A setting can be overridden by sending a new configuration message. A configured input, output, or phone number
can also be cleared by sending a configuration message with a blank value:
#[PIN][space]Ph2:number=.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
9
Connect the I/O
Now the Master user is configured, connect the SMS Lite to the wired inputs and outputs.
Activate an Input
Activate (switch on) one of the mechanical switch inputs.
Phone 1 will be sent a text message each time the input turns on or off.
Acknowledge the Alarm
You must acknowledge receipt of the alarm notification.
To acknowledge an alarm:
OK <input name> (e.g. Text: OK INP1)
Operate an Output
Phone 1 can control the outputs by sending the following commands:
-Turn the specified output on
ON <output name> (e.g. ON RLY1)
-Turn the specified output off
OFF <output name> (e.g. OFF RLY1)
-To pulse an output on for one second then off again
PULSE <output name> (e.g. PULSE RLY1)
-To pulse an output for a defined period of time
PULSE <output name> <duration> <units> (e.g. PULSE RLY1 10 mins)
Where the units can be ms, sec, min, or hr, and the maximum duration is 1 day.
This is all that is required for the master phone number to receive notifications from the SMS Lite
inputs and control the outputs.
If this basic configuration was successful, continue to additional configuration for extra phone
numbers, renaming and advanced settings.
We highly recommend renaming the Site Name and the Input and Output names, as these names
are used in the text messages and can save confusion.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
10
Additional Configuration
Further configuration is now possible to allow personalisation of your SMS Lite.
You can assign a site name as well as naming each of the inputs and outputs and assigning phone(s)
to these. The SMS Lite can be configured with up to 4 phone numbers allowing multiple user
notifications and control options.
Naming Conventions
Before renaming the site name, inputs, and outputs there are important considerations and
limitations.
Use alphanumeric characters –only use letters A to Z and numbers 1 to 9
Do NOT use spaces in the names –eg do not use “VSD RUN” or “PUMP SHED”
Do NOT use names longer than 8 characters –keep them short, 4 characters is recommended
Do NOT use punctuation marks or special characters: Do not use <: ; . , ? / @ # emojis etc
Do NOT use reserved keywords in the name. These includes ON, OFF, NAME, PHONE, SITE,
DEBOUNCE, DEFAULTS, OK, BUSY, PULSE, STATUS, BAL, STATS, INFO, INPUTS, OUTPUTS
Do NOT duplicate names, each name must be unique.
Additional Phone Numbers
Configure up to 3 additional users to allow notification and control options, using the same process
used to configure the Ph1 Master user.
1. Compose text message to the SMS Lite mobile number in the following format:
#[PIN][space]Ph2:number=0124567890[dot] (e.g. #12345 Ph2:number=022987654.)
2. A confirmation text will be sent to you acknowledging a configuration change.
Configuration Options
All configuration text messages sent to the SMS Lite must in the form of:
#[PIN][space]<object>:<item>=<value>[dot]
e.g. #12345 Site:Name=Shed1.
Or
#12345 INP1:Name=Pump.
Configuration options are shown in the following table:
Object
Item
Value
Site
Name
Name of the site where the SMS Lite is.
(8-character limit, no spaces)
INP1, INP2, INP3, INP4
These are the 4 individually
configurable inputs
Name
An identifying name for the input.
(8-character limit, no spaces)
Phones
Ph1→Ph4
Which configured phone number(s) will
receive notifications from this input.
Tip –A configuration worksheet can be found at the back of this manual and on our website.
We highly recommend these are used to record the Site, I/O names, phone numbers and their escalation order.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
11
RLY1, RLY2
These are the 2 outputs which
allow you to turn on / off or
pulse
Name
An identifying name for the output.
(8-character limit, no spaces)
Phones
Ph1→Ph4
Which configured phone number(s)
have permission to control this output.
Ph1, Ph2, Ph3, Ph4
Phone numbers of people who
receive alarm escalations or
can control inputs
Number
Local or International format
(e.g. 021…or +6421….)
The phone number(s) that will receive
notifications and/or have control. Up to
4 people.
Configuration messages can be sent individually with one text message per configuration instruction
or in a combined text message:
To program the Site name to Shed1, name Input 1 as Pump and set notification escalations to
phones 1, 2 and 3. You can either send the SMS Lite 3 individual configuration text messages:
e.g. #12345 Site:Name=Shed1.
#12345 INP1:Name=Pump.
#12345 INP1:Phones=Ph1,Ph3.
Or you can send 1 combined message:
e.g. #12345 Site:Name=Shed1. INP1:Name=Pump. INP1:Phones=Ph1,Ph2, Ph3.
Escalations
When programming the alarm escalations to phone numbers it is important to note that the
numbers step in numerical order.
E.g. Ph1→Ph2→Ph4 and Ph1→Ph2→Ph3 will work, however if you were to attempt to program
Ph4→Ph2→Ph3, the configuration text would be accepted but the escalation order would
be Ph2→Ph3→Ph4.
Text commands can be in upper or lower case; however, any capitalisation when naming the Site,
Input or Outputs will be retained.
e.g. #12345 Site:Name=Shed1.
is valid as
#12345 site:name=shed1.
After any configuration change you will receive either a confirmation message or an error message.
If you receive an error message, double check the configuration format and check that there is a full stop at the
end. Correct the error and resend.
The security for these messages is based on the PIN number being correct. Any phone can be used for these
commands if the PIN in the message matches that printed on the SMS Lite.
If the PIN is not correct messages will not be processed.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
12
Advanced Commands
Debouncing Inputs
This feature prevents the SMS Lite from sending multiple messages when connected to devices such
as float switches, which can switch on and off several times before settling due to contact bounce.
You can program a delay before the text message is sent by the SMS Lite.
The trigger point / device that is connected to the SMS Lite must stay in that state for the ‘debounce’
time that is set, before the SMS Lite will send a text message alerting you of a status change.
The delay is configurable, and you can select one of the following options: 0, 5, 10, or 30 seconds, or
1, 5, 10, or 15 minutes. Only these values are allowed.
The debounce value is applied to all inputs - you cannot specify different values for each input.
Program the ‘debounce’ option and value using the following instruction:
#[PIN][space]<object>:<item>=<value>[dot]
#12345 site:debounce=value. (e.g #12345 site:debounce=1min)
The value must be written in the following format "0sec", "5sec", "10sec", "30sec", "1min", "5min",
"10min", "15min"
For example:
#12345 site:debounce=10sec.
Clearing Configuration Settings
To clear all of the SMS Lite configuration settings, use the message:
#[PIN][space]Defaults[dot]
Note: This command will also clear all the programmed telephone numbers. After issuing this
command you must re-register the Master User (Ph1) before proceeding.
Supply Voltage Alarm
If the SMS Lite supply voltage drops below 10.5V DC, Ph1 will receive this notification message:
The supply voltage at <site> has gone low.
When the voltage increases above 11.5V DC a supply voltage message will be sent:
The supply voltage at <site> has returned to normal.
Tip –Supply voltage alarms do not escalate like input alarms.
Supply voltage can be queried at any time using the STATUS command

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
13
Message Paths
The following diagrams are examples of the message flows for the SMS Lite. They show the basic
message flow, an example of a busy response, no response and the escalation flow to multiple
phones.
INPUT
TURNS
ON / OFF
TXT
ALERT
SENT
BUSY
<INPUT>
2nd TXT
ALERT
SENT
OK
<INPUT>
END OF
PROCESS
Example 2 - Phone 1 Alerted, Busy –Escalate to Phone 2
Ph1
Ph2
SEND
SEND
RECEIVE
RECEIVE
TXT
MESSAGE
SENT
Example 5 - Output –Control Output with Phone 1
OUTPUT
TURNS
ON / OFF
OR PULSE
Ph1
END OF
PROCESS
Example 3 - Phone 1 Alerted, No Response –Escalate to Phone 2 After 10 Mins
OK
<INPUT>
END OF
PROCESS
INPUT
TURNS
ON / OFF
TXT
ALERT
SENT
NO
RESPONSE
(10 Mins)
2nd TXT
ALERT
SENT
Ph1
Ph2
RECEIVE
SEND
SEND
Example 4 - Phone 1 No Response, Escalate to Phone 2 After 10 Mins, Busy –Escalate to Phone 3
SEND
RECEIVE
SEND
SEND
2nd TXT
ALERT
SENT
BUSY
<INPUT>
END OF
PROCESS
OK
<INPUT>
INPUT TURNS
ON / OFF
TXT
ALERT
SENT
NO
RESPONSE
(10 Mins)
Ph2
Ph1
Ph3
3rd TXT
ALERT
SENT
INPUT
TURNS
ON / OFF
TXT
ALERT
SENT
Example 1 - Phone 1 Alerted –Alarm Acknowledged
OK
<INPUT>
END OF
PROCESS
SEND
RECEIVE

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
14
Alarms
Alarm Acknowledgements
To acknowledge an alarm:
OK <input name> (e.g. Text: OK Pump)
This will stop any further escalation of the alarm to the numbers in the phone list for that input
status change. It will begin at the top of the list the next time the input is activated.
To force the SMS Lite to send the alarm message to the next phone number in the list.
BUSY <input name> (e.g. Text: BUSY Pump)
Up to 3 other phones can be programmed to receive a notification. If Phone 1 replies ‘busy’ or if there
is no response after 10 minutes, the SMS Lite will send a text to the next programmed number.
Alarm Messages for Escalations
The first person in the multi-person escalation list receives a message and they are given the option
to reply BUSY:
Format: <Site> <Input> has turned ON. Reply OK <Input> or BUSY <Input>. You are the <nth>
of N> to be sent this.
e.g. Shed1 Pump has turned ON. Reply OK Pump or BUSY Pump. You are the 2nd
person of 3 to be sent this message
The last person in the escalation list receives a different message as they don’t have the option to
reply BUSY:
Format: <Site><Input> has turned ON. Reply OK <Input>. You are the <nth> of <N> to be sent
this.
e.g. Shed1 Pump has turned ON. Reply OK Pump. You are the 3rd person of 3 to be
sent this message
Alarm Escalations Stop After Delivery
The escalation sequence will stop after the last person on the escalation list receives their message.
This is to prevent repeated messages, and every phone will have a text showing what the alert was.
An escalation sequence will restart after an input has reset and been reactivated.
Other Alarm Messages
Other alarm messages have the following format.
Alarm has been acknowledged message:
<Site><Input> alarm has been acknowledged.
Alarm has not been acknowledged message:
<Site> <Input> alarm was NOT acknowledged.
SMS Lite returns to normal (Idle) state:
<Site><Input> has turned OFF.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
15
Information Commands
INPUTS e.g. Text: INPUTS
The SMS Lite will respond with a description of how the inputs are configured.
This includes the input names, and the phone number list for each input.
The current value for input debouncing is also displayed.
OUTPUTS e.g. Text: OUTPUTS
The SMS Lite will respond with a description of how the outputs are configured.
This includes the output names, and the list of phone numbers that are allowed to control each
output.
PHONES e.g. Text: PHONES
The SMS Lite will respond with a description of the phone number list it has configured.
STATUS e.g. Text: STATUS
The SMS Lite will respond with the current values of all inputs and outputs as well as current supply
voltage.
BAL e.g. Text: BAL
The SMS Lite will request the prepay account balance information from the cellular operator then
forward that message (or messages) to the phone number that requested it. (Not available from 2
Degrees).
STATS e.g. Text: STATS
The SMS Lite will respond with information about the Radio Signal Strength.
This will range from -50dBm to -110dBm and is reported as Strong, Medium, or Weak.
INFO e.g. Text: INFO
The SMS Lite will inform you of the version of firmware it is running.
TEST e.g. Text: TEST
This is a quick check to see if the SMS Lite is operational. It will display a led sequence and send the
response:
“SMS-Lite comms test succeeded!”
Use this for initial setup checks, see section on Troubleshooting.
For security, these commands only respond to phone numbers in the SMS Lite’s phone list.
If the phone number is not in the phone list, the command will not be processed.
Any phone number can be used for these commands, including those not in the SMS Lite phone list.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
16
Output Control
Outputs are controlled by sending a text message containing “on”, “off”or “pulse”and the output
name. In this example Output 1 has been renamed ‘Fan’
-Turn the specified output on
ON <output name> e.g. ON Fan
-Turn the specified output off
OFF <output name> e.g. OFF Fan
-To pulse an output on for one second then off again
PULSE <output name> e.g. ”PULSE Fan”, or “PULSE fan 1 sec”
Status LED
The SMS Lite has a status LED, labelled ‘Link’ located next to the antenna connection.
Status Indication
The LED indicates the following status information and events:
Power Up –5 slow flashes - displayed when the SMS Lite powers up.
Heartbeat –1 short flash every two seconds - the SMS Lite is connected to the cellular network.
Transmit OK –5 short flashes - shows the SMS Lite successfully sent an SMS.
Transmit Fault –3 long flashes - shows the SMS Lite tried to send but there was a problem.
Error Code Indication
The LED also indicates error codes that can be used to help identify issues:
Error Code 1 - 2 flashes - indicates the Modem will not power up.
This error code requires the SMS Lite be returned to QTech for service.
Error Code 2 - 3 flashes - indicates the Modem will not respond to commands.
This error code requires the SMS Lite be returned to QTech for service.
Error Code 3 - 4 flashes - indicates the SIM card is not inserted.
This error code may be fixed by checking the SIM card inside the SMS Lite.
Error Code 4 - 5 flashes - indicates the SMS Lite is not registered to the cellular network.
This error code is normally caused by a weak cellular signal and may be fixed by selecting a
higher gain antenna.
Error Code 5 - 6 flashes - indicates the cellular operator is not supported by the SMS Lite.
This error code may occur in some overseas locations.
Error Code 6 - 7 flashes - indicates the SIM card is currently busy.
This can occur briefly during the initialisation phase after the SMS Lite is powered up.
This error code may occur if the SIM card is not compatible with the SMS Lite.
Network Error Code - 3 slow flashes –an error code has been received from the phone network.
Indicates the SMS Lite tried to send an SMS but received an error code from the phone
network. Likely causes are having no credit on the SIM card or the cell tower being busy.
For security, outputs can only be controlled by phone numbers in the SMS Lite’s phone list.
If the phone number is not in the phone list, the command will not be processed.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
17
Troubleshooting
If you experience difficulties getting the unit working in your area it may be for a number of reasons
including (but not limited to):
1. The account balance on the SIM is zero.
2. The device is out of mobile network coverage, which may also depend on the antenna being
used.
3. The SIM is from an unrecognised Mobile Network Operator (MNO).
4. The device is operating in an area where the mobile infrastructure (such as frequency band
or protocol) is not supported by the SMS Lite device hardware.
5. The SIM is from a virtual mobile network operator and may be using a different SMS SCA
(Service Centre Address, sometimes referred to as service centre number) or the SCA has
not been programmed or provisioned on the SIM correctly.
6. The device is running on older firmware which can result in issue number 3 above.
There are some actions that can be taken to assist QTech with diagnosing the issue. These involve
carefully noting the actions of the indicator LED as it powers up and also counting the number of
pulses in an error code when it is displayed.
The typical boot sequence when the device starts is as follows:
- The device will turn the status LED on then flash briefly with a number of flashes (potentially
error code 6 indicating the device is busy).
- The device then turns the indicator off and if there is another error code this will be
displayed (e.g. error code 4 indicating it is not yet registered on the network)
- If this error code is repeatedly displayed, then this is the code that should be reported to
QTech.
- If the error code is replaced by the heartbeat indication (very short flash every few seconds)
then the device is in its normally operating mode and is registered on the mobile network.
You can quickly check the unit is running by performing a verification test, if your device is running
version 4.04 of the firmware or later.
Performing a Verification Test
Step
Description
Note
1
Remove the top cover of
the unit
Power down the device.
The top cover is held in place using dimpled locators. The cover is
“sprung” open by gently prising the lid corners up. A flat bladed
screwdriver can be used to assist but ensure that you avoid
touching the electronics or scratching the device metalwork.
2
Insert a valid SIM card
Ensure the SIM you are using has a valid SCA number and phone
number and is known to be working (test in a phone beforehand if
necessary).
mainboard
daughterboard

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
18
Step
Description
Note
Insert the SIM card into the SIM socket, noting the correct
orientation is observed. Bear in mind that not all SIMs can be used
in all localities.
3
Power up the device to
check operation
Connect the power adaptor to the unit and turn on the power.
Do not touch the electronics.
The device will indicate a burst of LED flashes on boot up then
settle into a heartbeat flash (very short) every few seconds.
During boot up the device may indicate an error code. If so, please
note it down.
As an added indication that it is working the LED on the modem
daughterboard itself will slowly flash on and off (on for 1sec off for
1sec each approx..) indicating that the device has registered on a
network.
4
Send a test message
Send a test message to the device from a phone by creating a new
text message addressed to the device’s phone number: Test
(Note that no PIN number is required).
5
Verify operation
If the device is operating the LED will indicate 1 short flash every
two seconds. This is called the “Heartbeat” indication.
When it receives the test message the LED will display a test
pattern on the LED for a few seconds consisting of alternating long
and short flashes
(i.e., short flash –longer flash –gap –short flash-longer flash –
gap). You will see this pattern a few times.
If the SIM is working properly the device will send a response text
message “SMS Lite comms test succeeded” to the phone.
When it sends this message there will also be a short burst of LED
flashes to indicate that it is transmitting.
If the device fails to do either or both of these, then there is a fault.
If a fault error code is being flashed, see the previous section on
Status LEDs to diagnose the fault, or contact QTech for assistance
after working through the troubleshooting tips below.
6
End of test
Power down and carefully replace the top lid.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
19
Troubleshooting Tips
A) Make sure you have reception bars on your phone in the same place as the device in case
there is a network coverage issue.
B) Check the account balance for the SIM card (phone number) and ensure there is enough
credit for sending texts.
C) Make sure when you power up the device you see the heartbeat indication. If you see
nothing on the LED after the initial boot sequence of flashes then inspect the LED on the
modem board. If there is no indication on the modem board then the device has not
registered on the network. If you see a periodic slow on-off of the LED then it appears to
have registered but if the main board LED is solid on or off then there is a fault on the device
and it may need reprogramming with firmware. Also see troubleshooting tip (I).
D) If the test message results in the LED test pattern displayed this means that the device is
successfully registered on the mobile network and is receiving messages.
E) If the test message displays the test pattern but a test response message is not received by
the phone, this means there is a problem with the device on the network. It could be an
incorrect SCA service number, incorrectly provisioned SIM, issue with account balance or
other error. The user should contact the SIM provider to check that the SIM is correctly
provisioned. Alternatively, the SIM can be checked in a phone by sending a message from
the phone. Also, double check that the LED in the modem daughterboard is flashing on and
off slowly.
F) If the test pattern is not displayed this means that the device may not be registered on the
network or there is a lack of coverage or network unavailability or that the network does not
offer coverage in the frequency band classes supported by the device hardware. If the SIM
works correctly in a phone, then the issue may be one of frequency band operation. Contact
QTech for assistance.
G) If the device appears to be operating normally and you have programmed it with a valid
phone number in the address book to receive alarm notifications then ensure that you do
not receive the transmit fault indication (three long flashes). This usually indicates that the
programmed phone number in the address book is incorrect. It can also indicate that there
is a problem with network availability.
H) If the device appears to be operating normally but inserting a SIM from a new provider has
caused it to stop, then using the old SIM, send the INFO command to obtain the firmware
version number and note the response. The firmware may require updating in order to
support the new SIM. Contact QTech for assistance.
I) If the device apparently suddenly stops working or does not work properly after the device
has been powered up after a sustained period of being off, or if it has been used extensively
in a phone before use in an SMS Lite, then it may have received network generated txt
messages that it is unable to process. Try removing the SIM and placing it in a phone then
clear all new messages and also clear any old messages that may be stored on the SIM. Then
replace the SIM into the SMS Lite and power it up. This issue might also be resolved by
upgrading to the latest version of firmware.

SMS Lite 4G–User Guide © 2022 QTech Data Systems Ltd
20
General Tips and Information
1. The SMS Lite is over voltage protected by a 30-volt Zenner diode. Voltages greater than this
will blow the internal 2A fast blow fuse. The supply voltage should be clean, continuous and
transient free.
2. The reliability of all cellular products is dependent on good signal strength. Before deciding
on the Telco to choose, please check coverage. We suggest that a cellular phone is taken to
site, to check the signal strength, i.e. how many “bars” are displayed.
3. The supplied stub antenna (P/N PD9230) should be suitable for locations with good cellular
coverage (full bars) and where the SMS Lite is in a non-conductive enclosure (e.g., plastic).
Other external mounting antenna options are also available; contact your equipment
supplier or QTech Data Systems Ltd for more details.
4. SMS messages on this device are limited to 160 Characters to provide compatibility with
older GSM services. There may be occasions when messages are truncated due to this
limitation. To avoid this set and check the debounce time before assigning phones to inputs.
5. If there are no phones explicitly programmed for an input (see configuration overview) then
when the input changes state the notification is sent to all phones in the phone book in the
order PH1 to PH4 (whichever have a phone number associated).
6. Upgrading from the old 2.5G SMS Lite. Take care when transferring the old SIM card to the
new 4G SMS Lite. If the new 4G SMS Lite fails to register on the mobile network, shown by
error code 4, you may need to obtain a new SIM card compatible with the 4G network. The
modem type is identified by the following printing on the daughterboard:
“UC864-G” 2.5-3G mobile networks, obsolete, not manufactured
“HE910” or “HX910” 3G mobile networks, still in service, not manufactured
“LE910” 4G mobile networks, in service, current production