RIM 801D Assembly Instructions

Integrator’s
Guide
RIM 801D
OEM Radio Modem
version 1.0

RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem Integrator’s Guide
Last Revised: 22 February 1999
Part Number: MAT-01769-002 Rev. 001
©1998, RESEARCH IN MOTION LIMITED
Research In Motion and RIM are registered trademarks of Research In Motion
Limited.
DataTAC and RD-LAP are trademarks of Motorola.
MS-DOS is a registered trademark, and Windows is a trademark, of Microsoft
Corporation.
Velcro is a registered trademark of Velcro Canada Incorporated.
Scotchmate and Dual Lock are trademarks of 3M Corporation.
Warning: This document is for the use of licensed users only. Any unauthorized
copying, distribution or disclosure of information is a violation of copyright laws.
While every effort has been made to ensure technical accuracy, information in this
document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment
on the part of Research In Motion Limited.
Research In Motion
295 Phillip Street
Waterloo, Ontario
Canada N2L 3W8
tel. [phone]
fax [phone]
Internet: [email protected]
Web site: www.rim.net
Printed in Canada AM0598R801D-int
DATATAC Interface, specified
DataTAC Open Protocol
Specification
970.0775R1

FCC Compliance Statement (USA)
FCC Class B Part 15
This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
Warning
Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications.
There is no guarantee, however, that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Contents
FCC Compliance Statement (USA)..........................................i
Figures, tables and equations.................................................v
About this guide.....................................................................vii
1. Introduction.................................................................1
Radio modem features.....................................................................1
DataTAC network technology.........................................................3
2. Mechanical specifications and mounting needs........5
Environmental properties ................................................................5
Physical properties ..........................................................................6
Mounting the RIM 801D.................................................................8
3. Power requirements..................................................11
Load specifications........................................................................11
Automotive supplies......................................................................13
Rechargeable batteries...................................................................13
Single use batteries........................................................................14
Plug-in supplies.............................................................................15
Connecting the power source ........................................................16
4. Serial interface specification ....................................17
Signal specifications (Standard 5V interface) ...............................17
Connecting the serial cable............................................................18
Detailed pin description.................................................................19
Turning the radio ON ....................................................................23
Turning the radio OFF...................................................................23
5. Antenna integration .................................................. 25
Antenna requirements....................................................................25
Positioning the antenna..................................................................27
Antenna cabling.............................................................................28
Shielding........................................................................................30

6. Protocol support........................................................33
Service Data Units (SDUs)........................................................... 34
NCL Protocol ............................................................................... 35
Radio Access Protocol (RAP) ...................................................... 35
Summary....................................................................................... 41
7. Interfacing and controlling the RIM 801D.............43
Interfacing to an RS232 device..................................................... 43
Controlling the RIM 801D ........................................................... 44
Serial port interface ...................................................................... 44
Specifications.........................................................................49
Glossary of terms...................................................................51
Appendices.............................................................................53
Appendix I - Parts......................................................................... 53
Appendix II - Company Directory................................................ 55
Index.......................................................................................57

Figures, tables
and equations
Figure 1: Top view of RIM 801D 7
Figure 2: Side view of RIM 801D 7
Figure 3: Battery Transmit Power Comparison 14
Figure 4: Sample plug-in supply 15
Figure 5: FPC cable and connectors 18
Figure 6: Controlled Shutdown Using a Low-Power Battery Supply 24
Figure 7: Connecting an antenna 28
Figure 8: Different MMCX Connector Orientations 29
Figure 9: Example SMA Jack Connectors 30
Figure 10: RAP Frame Structure 37
Figure 11: Sending data from the host to the wireless network 38
Figure 12: Simple PC RS232 Interface 45
Figure 13: Simple 8051 Interface 46
Figure 14: 8250 Serial Port Interface 47
Table 1: Serial Interface Pin-out and Description 19
Equation 1: VSWR 26
Equation 2: Return Loss 26

About this guide
This document is a guide to integrating the RIM 801D OEM DataTAC radio
modem into an embedded system, such as a laptop computer, PDA, vending
machine, POS terminal, or alarm system.
Topics covered in this guide include:
• physical size and mounting requirements
• power and battery characteristics
• interfacing to the RIM 801D
• antenna selection and placement
• communication protocols
Throughout the guide, there are suggestions and precautions that will ease
the implementation of a wireless communication solution. Attention is
drawn to these through the use of the two symbols below.
This symbol represents a hint or a suggestion. Although the ideas presented
are not necessary to the integration of the RIM 801D, they are useful to
many applications, and they may save integrators time.
This is an important note or a warning. The text will advize integrators of a
potentially hazardous situation, or a necessary precaution to take when
designing applications.
!

1
1. Introduction
Topics covered in this introduction include the RIM 801D OEM radio
modem features and an introduction to DataTAC network technology.
Radio modem features
The RIM 801D OEM radio modem is specifically designed to integrate
easily into a computer or other embedded system, such as PDAs, vending
machines, and point-of-sale terminals. Operating in the 800 MHz frequency
range, the RIM 801D is compatible with DataTAC wide-area wireless data
communication networks.
Powerful and efficient transmitter
The RIM 801D provides reliable transmit efficiency throughout the range of
operational voltage (6.0 to 9.5 volts). This is an important feature because
the radio modem does not lose transmit power as battery voltage drops,
thereby keeping the radio coverage area at a maximum throughout the life of
the battery. The chart below shows how the transmit power output remains
constant over the 6.0 to 9.5 volt supply.

Introduction: Radio modem features
Integrator’s Guide – RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem
2
Leveled Transmit Power
Battery Voltage [V]
15.00
18.00
21.00
24.00
27.00
30.00
33.00
6.00 6.50 7.00 7.50 8.00 8.50 9.00
Noise immunity
The RIM 801D is not de-sensitized by RF noise generated by nearby
electronics. This makes the RIM 801D ideal for integration into hand-held
terminals, and eliminates the need for special shielding. Noise immunity
significantly increases reliability, improves performance, extends battery
life, and increases the effective range of operation of the RIM 801D.
Low power requirements
Battery life is a critical issue for portable devices: end-users want long
lasting devices without heavy battery packs. The RIM 801D sets a new
power consumption standard for OEM-style radio modems by reducing
standby power to only 12 mA. This allows the RIM 801D to maximize
efficiency and ensure long battery life.
Small size
Using a single board design, the RIM 801D is very thin, only 0.3” to 0.38”
(7.5 to 9.6 mm). The RIM 801D is about the size of a credit card, with a
footprint of 3.5” by 2.6” (87.5 by 66.3 mm). This tiny size makes the RIM
801D very lightweight (only 2.3oz or 64g, including case) and allows the
device to meet tight space requirements within most applications.

Introduction: DataTAC network technology
RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem – Integrator’s Guide
3
DataTAC network technology
The DataTAC infrastructure has become an international data
communications standard, offering fast data transmission rates with
accurate, highly reliable message delivery. DataTAC networks are deployed
around the world from North America to Europe to Asia-Pacific.
Using an advanced Radio Data Link Access Procedure (RD-LAP) radio
channel protocol, DataTAC systems provide transmission rates up to 19.2
kb per second and 9.6 kb per second depending on the country. Those rates
mean fewer delays and faster response times for the mobile user. For
network operators, they mean greater capacity to accommodate more
customers, while minimizing the required investment in network
infrastructure.
DataTAC’s error detection and correction schemes provide increased
message accuracy, fewer message retries and enhanced networks
throughput. With DataTAC technology, the state of the entire network is
constantly monitored and safety mechanisms including system alarms,
remote diagnostics and redundant back-up links ensure network reliability
and availability.
The key components of the network infrastructure include the Network
Management Center (NMC), Area Communications Controller (ACC) and
base site equipment.
The NMC is an advanced client-server based management tool which
provides all network administration, operation and maintenance functions. It
acts as the central point of control in the DataTAC system.
The ACC consists of the Radio Network Gateway (RNG), Radio Network
Controller (RNC), and Communications Hub. The ACC is primarily
responsible for all message switching and routing functions, as well as
providing the key communication link between host computers and remote
base stations. Connectivity between the host computer and the infrastructure
is established using industry standard X.25 or TCP/IP host link protocols.
The ACC maintains all customer-specific information for each device on the
system and allows users within a given geographic area to connect to host
application services. It manages user device authorization, roaming control
and base site control. It also collects all system usage/traffic information for
accounting/billing purposes and detailed analysis of usage patterns.

Introduction: DataTAC network technology
Integrator’s Guide – RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem
4
DataTAC Data System Station (DSS) base site equipment is located at
various remote sites in the operational area of coverage and provides the RF
link between the DataTAC infrastructure and end user devices. They convert
the host data messages into the RD-LAP radio channel protocol for
transmission to the user devices and reverse the process on the return
connection. They also allow device roaming between base site coverage
areas in a seamless manner completely transparent to the end user.

2
2. Mechanical
specifications and
mounting needs
This chapter provides information about the RIM 801D that will be useful in
determining the physical positioning of the radio modem within an
application. Environmental properties, case dimensions, cabling, connectors,
and mounting suggestions are presented.
Environmental properties
The RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem is designed to function within the
following environmental limits:
• -30°Cto+55°C(-22°F to +131°F) operational
• -40°Cto+85°C(-40°F to +185°F) storage
• 5 to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing

Mechanical specifications and mounting needs: Physical properties
Integrator’s Guide – RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem
6
Physical properties
Dimensions
The RIM 801D has been designed to meet the most stringent space
requirements. In most cases, there will be sufficient room in an existing
enclosure to house the radio modem. Within the case of the modem, the
smaller components are mounted on one side, and the larger components on
the other. This separation of large and small components results in a case
with two different thickness (see Figure 2, below).
The overall maximum dimensions of the radio modem are:
• Width: 2.61” (6.63 cm)
• Length: 3.44” (8.74 cm)
• Thickness: 0.30” (0.75 cm) to 0.38” (0.96 cm)
Top and side views of the radio modem are shown on the next page.
Weight
The RIM 801D weighs 2.3oz (64g), including the case.

Mechanical specifications and mounting needs: Physical properties
RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem – Integrator’s Guide
7
Figure 1: Top view of RIM 801D
Figure 2: Side view of RIM 801D

Mechanical specifications and mounting needs: Mounting the RIM 801D
Integrator’s Guide – RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem
8
Mounting the RIM 801D
The RIM 801D OEM radio modem may be securely fastened using a variety
of methods. When deciding on a mounting option, the most important
consideration is the operating environment. Such factors as extreme
temperature or heavy vibration may dictate the need for a special mounting
solution.
Due to the RIM 801D’s small size and low weight, Research In Motion
recommends the use of an industrial adhesive when attaching the radio
modem to the host device. This method of mounting is preferable to bolts,
because of its ease of use in manufacturing and its resistance to loosening.
An effective solution is to adhere the radio modem to the inside surface of
your product’s casing.
The designer should select an adhesive based on its suitability to the
mounting surface of the radio modem as well as the casing. The outer casing
of the RIM 801D is pre-tinned steel or stainless steel, with a thickness of
0.010” (0.25 mm).
The following information is presented as a guide, but applications can vary
considerably. Please make sure that the mounting method you choose is
suitable for your particular application.
Permanent adhesive
3M manufactures VHB, a permanent industrial adhesive with excellent
long-term holding power. The peel adhesion and tensile holding power of
VHB tapes are extremely high, making this a suitable solution when the
radio will not need to be removed.
Testing by Research In Motion has shown that a RIM 801D radio modem,
bonded to a suitable surface with VHB, should never come loose even when
subject to heavy vibration. Although the use of an adhesive might seem
inadequate or insufficient, it should be considered that this particular
adhesive is extremely strong — for example, VHB tapes replace rivets in
fastening side panels to the frames of ambulances. VHB adheres best to
metal, and can also be used on finished wood, paper, cardboard, glass,
painted concrete, and most plastics, with various ratings in bond strength.
VHB will not bond to polyethylene or polypropylene plastics, leather, or
fabric.

Mechanical specifications and mounting needs: Mounting the RIM 801D
RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem – Integrator’s Guide
9
Please be aware that because VHB is a permanent adhesive, the radio
modem cannot be removed once it is installed. Attempting to break the
adhesive bond by twisting off the radio modem will certainly damage the
unit. There is no known solvent that will remove VHB. If using VHB as your
adhesive, please make sure that you will not need to remove the radio
modem after it is installed. Otherwise, the use of a reclosable fastener is
recommended.
More information about VHB may be obtained by contacting 3M Industrial
Tape and Specialties Division. The publication number for the VHB
technical data sheet is 70-0702-0266-1(104.5)R1. Please refer to -
Appendix II for complete contact information.
Reclosable Fasteners
A reclosable fastener may be used to affix the RIM 801D to a surface. The
use of such fasteners is useful if the radio modem might be removed at some
point during the product’s life. For example, the RIM 801D can be installed
in a housing with no need for the end user to remove the radio modem, but
the product manufacturer might later wish to do so.
The choice of reclosable fastener is governed by two factors. The first is the
strength of the closure. The fastener should ensure that the closure will last
long enough so the radio modem will not accidentally separate from the
housing of the embedded system. The second consideration is the number of
times the radio modem will be removed and refastened.
Two lines of Velcro-like reclosable fasteners are offered by 3M: Scotchmate
and Dual Lock. Scotchmate is a plastic hook and cloth loop fastening
system, the use of which is inappropriate to this application because it is
expected that the radio modem would eventually come loose. Dual Lock is a
sturdier, more rugged design that is appropriate to this task. The use of Dual
Lock, alone or in combination with Scotchmate, offers excellent fastening
while retaining the capability of removing the RIM 801D.
Different applications have different fastening needs. The combinations
suitable to most applications are outlined below:
• Attaching the RIM 801D to a rigid surface. The use of Type 400
Dual Lock with Type 170 Dual Lock is a universal combination,
suitable for most situations where the RIM 801D is affixed to a
rigid surface. (The “Type” number, 400 or 170, refers to the
number of interlocking mushroom-shaped stems per square inch.)

Mechanical specifications and mounting needs: Mounting the RIM 801D
Integrator’s Guide – RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem
10
The RIM 801D can be removed and reattached as often as
necessary using this method.
• Attaching the RIM 801D to a flexible surface. Using Type 400
Dual Lock on both surfaces offers the maximum tensile
disengagement of 55 psi (380 kPa). The RIM 801D can be
removed and reattached as often as necessary using this method.
• Maximum holding power. A high-strength closure may be
obtained by mating Scotchmate Loop (on the RIM 801D) with
Type 170 Dual Lock (on the attaching surface). The peel strength
of this combination is very high, at 10 pounds/inch (17.5 N/cm).
This solution offers the highest possible long-term holding
strength, but it limits the number of times the RIM 801D could be
removed to between 20 and 50. Please be aware that the radio
modem may tend to “wiggle” a little bit because of the loops. This
may give the appearance of a loose bond, although the radio is in
fact held in place quite securely.
It is necessary to choose the adhesive backing on the fastener strips (rubber
adhesive, acrylic adhesive, or VHB) so that it is appropriate to the attaching
surface. Either backing will attach to the RIM 801D’s steel casing, although
VHB is recommended for its greater strength. However, VHB will not
adhere to polyethylene or polypropylene plastic, for which rubber adhesive
is recommended.
The disadvantage of these reclosable fasteners is that they will add slightly
to the thickness of the radio modem. The engaged thickness of the
combinations above will be from 0.19” to 0.23” (4.8 mm to 5.8 mm).
More information about 3M’s reclosable fasteners may be obtained by
contacting 3M Industrial Tape and Specialties Division and requesting
publication number 70-0704-5609-3(833)JR.
Other solutions
You may determine that other mounting solutions — such as cable, twist ties
or brackets — are more effective for your particular application. In all cases,
it will be important to ensure that the RIM 801D OEM radio modem
remains securely attached, even when subject to the most extreme vibration
and temperature anticipated in the operating environment.