SDE Lab Cellular Meter 2G/3G User manual

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Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
CONTENTS
Safety Precautions and Warnings 2
General Information 3
Exterior of the Device 4
Maintenance and Operation 5
Installation of SIM-Cards 5
Software Installation 6
Setup Wi-Fi for AP and AP+STA Mode Operation 6
Replacement of the Accumulator Battery 7
Short Software Description 8
Basic Software Functions 8
Main Features of Windows Based Software 9
Main Features of Android and Apple iOS Software 10
Warranty and Post-Warranty Service 11

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Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
NOT ALLOWED TO CONNECT THE DEVICE TO REPEATERS!
THE SIGNAL LEVEL OF OVER 1 mW (+0dBm) CAN CAUSE DAMAGE DEVICE.
BE CAREFUL WHEN CONNECTING OF THE DEVICE TO EXTERNAL LINE
AMPLIFIERS. MAKE SURE THAT THE USED AMPLIFIERS PERMIT TO CONNECT
OF UP TO 10 mW (+10dBm) INPUT SIGNAL.
THE DEVICE AND ITS COMPONENTS COMPLY WITH THE SAFETY
STANDARDS. HOWEVER, IMPROPER USAGE CAN CAUSE INJURIES AND
FAILURE OF THE DEVICE OR ANY OTHER MATERIAL DAMAGE. TO AVOID THIS
CAREFULLY READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE OPERATION.
EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED TO OPERATE THE DEVICE DURING THUNDER!
LIGHTNING RODS, GROUNDING DEVICES AND LIGHTNING ARRESTORS
CANNOT YET GIVE 100% PROTECTION. PHYSICAL CONTACT WITH THE DEVICE
CONNECTED TO OUTDOOR ANTENNA IS DANGEROUS FOR THE HEALTH OR
CAN CAUSE DEATH IN CASE OF A LIGHTNING DISCHARGE.
IF THE DEVICE USED FOR LONG-TIME MONITORING WITH THE OUTDOOR
ANTENNA, THEN STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO USE ADDITIONAL LIGHTNING
ARRESTOR CONNECTED TO INDOOR GROUNDING BAR. TO AVOID PHYSICAL
CONTACT OF PERSONEL WITH THE DEVICE. IT IS RECOMMENDED TO USE WI-
FI WIRELESS CONTROL.
MUST BE AVOIDED CONTACTS OF OUTDOOR ANTENNA AND RF CABLE TO
POWER LINES IN CASE OF STORM WEATHER.
ONLY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES AND
CELLULAR TELECOMMUNICATIONS MUST OPERATE WITH THE DEVICE.
CAREFULLY KEEP THIS MANUAL AND TRANSFER IT TOGETHER WITH THE
DEVICE IN CASE OF CHANGE OWNER.

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Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Cellular Meter 2G/3G is a portable measurement instrument which
designed to assistance at deployment and maintenance of cellular repeaters
and other cellular equipment.
Cell Meter allows monitoring of the radiofrequencies within the main
cellular bands: EGSM 900, GSM 850, DCS 1800, PCS 1900, 3G 2100 (3GPP
Band I) and 3G 900 (3GPP Band VIII).
The device has connectors (holders) to install of up to 6 SIM-cards,
which allows working with all telecom operators by switching over SIM-cards,
which significantly saves time and drastically increases reliability of the device.
As a control and display unit for the device can be use any kind smart-
phones and tablet computers based on Android and Apple iOS operating
system (hereinafter referred to as OS), as well as Windows based personal
computers (hereinafter referred to as PCs), laptops and tablet computers can
be used via Wi-Fi or USB-host.
Wi-Fi allows operating with the device at a convenient distance and by
a local wireless network. For long-term radio monitoring from a Windows-
based PC the device provides charging and data connection by the USB-cable.
Nevertheless, in case of thunderstorm strongly recommended to use Wi-Fi
wireless connection, but charging from AC adapter.
If the USB-cable (or charger) connected before powering on the device,
then device will operate only by the USB, that indicated by the red blinking
LED. For Wi-Fi operation mode USB-cable (or charger) must be connected only
after power on of the device or re-connect the cable thereafter. In other
words, the device checks USB connection during powering on. If the cable is
not connected (or disconnected thereafter), then device will switch to the Wi-
Fi operating mode, which is indicated by the blue blinking LED. In order to
return the USB operating mode, just switch off the device; connect cable and
then switch on again.

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Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
EXTERIOR OF THE DEVICE
1 Removable front bezel.
2 Front bezel screws.
3 Data/charge Micro-USB connector.
4 Battery charge indicator (yellow).
5 Activity indicator (red/blue).
6 ON/OFF switching button.
7 RF INPUT connector (+0 dBm max).
8 RF OUTPUT connector (+10 dBm max).
9 Removable aluminum lid.
10 SIM-card connectors (three pairs).
11 Li-ON (Li-PO) accumulator battery.
12 Wi-Fi module default reset contact.
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Picture 1.
Exterior of the device in the closed and open state.
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Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
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MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION
For proper operation of Cell Meter, make sure that RF connectors are in
good condition. Wipe them with a clear alcohol when clean necessary. Strongly
recommended to close connectors with safety caps for not only the
transportation, but also when not in use.
Periodically check the level of the accumulator battery during the
operation and recharge when necessary. The battery voltage and the
approximate percent of the change level indicated in the main menu or in the
headline of the operating modes of the software; it depends on the OS type and
version. Operation with a low-charged battery can cause of failures. Remember
that the accumulator’s capacity decreases at very low and very high
temperatures. Cell Meter switch off automatically when the battery discharged
below the minimum threshold or by timer after 10 minutes of idle.
Note: Yellow charging indicator will switched off when the battery is 95%
full. This indicate that quick cycle of charging (by high current) is finished.
Installation of SIM-Cards
Install inside the Cell Meter at least one SIM-card before start operation.
Can be installed up to 6 SIM-cards in order to analyze all available mobile
network operators (MNO) by switching the SIM-cards in the program. The "all
channels scanning" function will indicate levels of all channels independently of
SIM-card selected in software; however, at least one SIM-card is required for
normal operation of the Cell Meter. If no SIM-card in the selected holder, then
"all channels scanning" and some other functions become inactive in software.
To install SIM-cards you have to partially disassembly device (picture 1).
Screw out four front bezel screws (2) and remove the front bezel (1). Pull out
the upper aluminum lid (9) in towards to the just removed front bezel (it might
require muscle force). Make sure that Cell Meter is off before start working
with SIM-cards. Place the SIM-cards into connectors (10) in any convenient
order. Labeling of the connectors corresponds to numeration in the software.
Switch on the device without lid and bezel and check device operation with all
the installed SIM-cards.
Note: PIN-code must we deactivated!

Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
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Carefully place accumulator battery and its wires inside the case.
Assemble device in the reverse order. Avoid to damage wires insulation when
close the lid. Not recommended to apply force when tightening the screws of
the front bezel - it is just a plastic.
Software Installation
Software for Android devices is available on Play Market™, for iOS
devices –on App Store™, as well as on our Web site for Windows-based
PC’s. To install Windows-based software, launch Internet browser and
follow the link http://cell.sdelab.ru/. Select type of the device and then
follow the link corresponding to the applicable operating system and
authorize installation of the application or save on local drive to install later
without Internet connection. To receive new software versions, check
updates on our Web site. Software version number defined by file name.
You can find information on the current version of available software in
menu item “Settings/About”the program or using the OS means. In case of
Internet access, updates checked automatically and proposed to install if
available.
Our Web site will also contain this description and other
documentation and useful information.
Setup Wi-Fi for AP and AP+STA Mode Operation.
The Wi-Fi module of the device is set via the embedded WEB interface.
By default, the device creates “CELLMETER”Wi-Fi network and operates as an
access point (“AP mode”). Connection also possible to establish via local Wi-Fi
network, you will need to switch its Wi-Fi module to “AP+STA mode” by
means WEB interface. For this purpose connect to “CELLMETER” Wi-Fi
network, launch the browser and enter IP address http://10.10.100.254/,login
and password: admin / admin. Select English language in the right upper
corner. Press “Scan” on “STA Settings” tab, then select the required local Wi-Fi
network and press “OK”. Fill in the access password field and press “Save”.
Select “AP+STA mode” on the “Work Mode” tab, press “Save” and “Restart”.
After restart, “CELLMETER” network will arise and the WEB interface will be
accessible both by IP address http://10.10.100.254/ and by the local network
IP address. If you set “STA mode”, then after restart, the “CELLMETER”

Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
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network will not arise and the WEB interface will be only accessible by the IP
address set by the local network router. For further software operation with
the device find out its IP address and enter it in the “CELLMETER” software
settings. Operation of the device cannot guaranteed for all types of routers.
We tested operation with such popular routers as ZyXEL, D-Link, TP-Link,
OpenWRT.
Cell Meter in “AP+STA mode”indicates the local network connection by
blue blinking twice a second. In this case, connect control gadget to local
network too and configure Cell Meter software to the local network address.
Data transmission activity indicated by frequent blinking in time with the data.
Connection failure or disconnection indicated once a second.
Cell Meter in “AP mode” indicates creation of “CELLMETER” network by
blue color once a second and frequent blinking in time with the data.
You can return to “AP mode” via the WEB interface or reset of the
device’s Wi-Fi module parameters to the initial status. For this purpose, you
can use “DFLT” control point near Micro USB connector below the front lid of
the device (pos. 12 in pic. 1). For reset switch on the device and short “DFLT”
control point for 2-3 seconds together with the minus common circuit, for
example, with Micro USB connector case.
Caution! Operation of two or more devices in the “AP” access point
mode in one place and simultaneously not provided.
Replacement of the Accumulator Battery
Lithium battery is the only component which might require to been
replaced during entire life of the device. To replace the battery you have to
disassemble the device (picture 1). Screw out four front bezel screws (2)
and remove the front bezel (1). Pull out the upper aluminum lid (9) in
towards to the just removed front bezel (it might require muscle force).
Carefully disconnect the accumulator from the device connector.
Before connection to the device, make sure that proper type,
matching of the connector and correct polarity of the new accumulator.
Minus wire of the battery must be connected to the common circuit
(grounding) of the device.

Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
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Caution! If you connect an accumulator with improper polarity, this
will damage both the device and the accumulator battery. In this case,
battery can be explosion-dangerous!
Connect the new accumulator to the device. Switch on the device to
check operability. Carefully place accumulator battery and its wires inside
the case. Assemble device in the reverse order. Avoid to damage wires
insulation when close the lid. Not recommended to apply force when
tightening the screws of the front bezel - it is just a plastic.
Caution! Fully charge the accumulator battery. Yellow indicator will
switch off when battery 95% charged.
SHORT SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION
Our software regularly upgraded, so this section describes only its
most important parameters. New software versions are available on Play
Market™ and App Store™, as well as on our Web site http://cell.sdelab.ru/.
Basic Software Functions:
I. Scanning of all channels.
This function simultaneously scans all frequency channels (voice and
control) of all operators and displaying it graphically. This allows to setup
antenna in such direction so that peak signals of all operators will an
approximately equal level. For better displaying, you have to tune bands of
channel numbers dedicated for local MNO’s and colors in menu settings.
II. Scanning of all control channels in the graphical form.
This function is similar to I (above), but it only displays signal levels of
control channels of all MNO’s. This contributes higher speed of the device,
but reduces stability. The device can start to work with only one MNO,
which is dominating in signal level. Just restart the function in such cases.
III. Scanning of all control channels in the table form.
This function is similar to II (above), but information is in digital values of
channel numbers and their levels in the table form.
IV. Scanning of service and neighbor stations of SIM selected MNO.
This function displays information of the levels and channel numbers of
service and neighbor stations of the selected SIM card operator. Besides, it

Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
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gives a lot of additional information on the system. In this mode, the device
is trying to register in the network of the selected operator. This function is
similar to service monitor mode of cellular phones, but data displayed in a
more convenient form and table. Some columns of table can be set hidden
in menu settings.
V. Measuring of isolation (insertion loss, attenuation).
This function finds a free frequency channel at the INPUT connector and
then measures the level of the own signal generated at the OUTPUT
connector. This allows to measure attenuation from 0 dB to more than 110
dB, which is enough to determine the level of isolation between donor and
service antennas for repeaters. Use an external directional coupler if
required to check RF matching (VSWR) of cable or other passive
components (antennas, splitters, combiners, etc.). It will be difference
(matching value) between forwarded and reflected levels at the coupling
connector. Bigger difference means better matching. Preferably, matching
value is higher than 10 dB, i.e. ratio VSWR < 2.
VI. Measuring of the signal quality.
This mode displays the level of the received signal in time by a diagram
during a call to an answering machine phone number. While the
connection is set, the Base Station measures the level of errors (BER) and
sends it to device to display. Upon expiration of the answering machine
time and drop call, the device performs redial. Enter a free of charge
phone numbers of answering machines for all installed SIM-cards in
software settings.
Caution! Please do not use phone numbers where people operated!
Main features of Windows based software.
The device is compatible with Window based PC via USB cable or Wi-Fi
connection. Software for PCs and laptops is a bit more functional, because of
there are more system resources and a “mouse”.
For Wi-Fi operation, first activate the Wi-Fi on the PC and then switch
on the device. Start searching of Wi-Fi access point on the PC. Select
CELLMETER in the list and connect to this network (Note: this network has
no Internet connection). Launch Cell Meter software and it will detect
device automatically. The device will indicate data communication by
frequent blinking of blue LED.

Cellular Meter 2G/3GUSER MANUAL ©2012-2014 SDE Lab.
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Caution! Simultaneous operation of two or more devices in the Wi-Fi access
point mode not provided.
For the USB operation, first make sure that device is off, then check
cable connection and then switch on the device. The red LED blinking will
indicate cable data mode. Launch the Cell Meter software and it will detect
device automatically. The device indicates USB data communication by
frequent blinking of red LED. Once the data cable disconnected, the device
will switch to Wi-Fi mode. To return it to cable mode re-establish the cable
connection and restart the device.
Main features of Android and Apple iOS based software.
The device is compatible with Android and Apple iOS-based apps
(smartphones, tablet computers, etc.) only by Wi-Fi. Android software is
available on Play Market™, for iOS devices –on App Store™. You can use
“CELLULAR METER” for quick search.
When software installation completed, switch on the device, if it is charging
then temporary disconnect the charging cable to switch to Wi-Fi mode. Activate
Wi-Fi on the gadget. Start searching and select CELLMETER network in the list.
Connect your Gadget to CELLMETER network. Launching the software and select
Wi-Fi connection. The device indicates data communication by frequent blinking
of blue LED.
Caution! Simultaneous operation of two or more devices in the access
point mode not provided.