Victron energy GX GSM User manual

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GX GSM manual
1. Introduction
The GX GSM is an accessory for GX-devices. It is a cellular modem; providing a mobile internet for the
system and connection to Victron Remote Management (VRM).
It requires a SIM card of the Mini-SIM format; and connects to the GX-device with a (supplied) 1m USB
cable.
See also the GX GSM Product Page.
Video explaining how to connect using LAN, WiFi, and the GX GSM:
Video
Antennas and accessories
GSM: A small indoor GSM antenna is included. As an option we also sell an outdoor GSM antenna:

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GSM900100100 - Outdoor 2G and 3G GSM Antenna for GX GSM
GPS: The unit has a built-in GPS receiver. An antenna is not included; to use the GPS received;
purchase the GPS Antenna.
GSM900200100 - Active GPS Antenna for GX GSM
See bottom of this manual for photos and specs of both optional antennas.
Compatibility
The GX GSM can be used with any of the GX Devices, including:
Color Control GX
Venus GX
Octo GX
The GX GSM requires Venus OS v2.22 or newer to be installed on the GX Device.
When to use a mobile router instead
The GX GSM only provides an internet connection for the GX-device: there is no option to share the
internet to laptops, phones, or other devices.
For installations where more devices need internet, such as a yacht or RV, consider installing a mobile
router instead. More information here.
2. Installation
Mount the device and connect the antenna. Consider using the outdoor antenna when installing the
GX GSM in a closed metal enclosure.
Insert the SIM card. You will need to eject the SIM card tray with a pen or other pointy object. Be
aware that the SIM card try sits slightly recessed inside the unit. Be sure to push it all the way in.
Connect the GX GSM to the Venus device with the supplied USB cable. Use a USB hub if all USB
sockets are already in use.
Connect DC power supply (8 to 70 VDC). A 1.4M wire is included, with M10 lugs and an inline fuse.
After power-up, the blue LED will be solid blue. Next, once it has registered on a network, it will start
blinking slowly. Finally, when it has established the internet connection, it will be blinking fast.
3. Configuration

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When using a SIM card with its SIM-pin security disabled, the system will work without further
configuration. Verify operation by .. ? (Check VRM Last log data?)
Setting a SIM pin helps reducing the risk of the SIM card being stolen and used. Use a mobile phone to
set the SIM pin, and there after configure it on the Venus device.
Settings → GSM modem → PIN code
Some mobile networks require manual configuration of an APN specially when roaming. Contact your
operator.
APN name can be configured in Settings → GSM Modem → APN.

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4. Status
GSM modem status can be checked at a glance by looking at the status bar.
Icon Details
GSM modem is connected to network, but not to the internet (no data connection). Either on
purpose, because an ethernet or WiFi connection is available.
GSM modem is properly configured, the 3G/E/etc icon reflects that the GSM modem internet
connection is in use.
WiFi is available and its internet connection is in use. WiFi has priority over GSM.
SIM PIN code is required.
Roaming, only informative. To use internet connection while roaming it needs to be enabled
in
Settings → GSM modem → Allow roaming.
6. GPS
When the optional antenna is added; the position will be visible like this:

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Also the position is sent to the VRM Portal.
5. Trouble shooting
Step Details
1 Power Check that the blue LED is either lit continuous or blinking
2 USB The modem must be connected to USB, and visible in the Settings → GSM modem
menu
3 Simcard If enabled, PIN code must be configured in Settings → GSM modem → PIN
4 Signal strength 1 bar for VRM logging, 2/3 bars for remote console
5 Network Check that a network name is visible. If it is not, contact your simcard provider
and/or insert the simcard in a phone to double check its operation.
You also need to remember that an outdoor antenna typically increases received signal by 15 dB to
25 dB. (verify)
6. Supported Frequencies (2G/3G)
2G (GSM/GPRS/EDGE): 850/900/1800/1900 MHz (Quad-Band)
3G (UMTS/HSPA+): 900/2100 MHz (Dual-Band)
Please notice: In Northern America 1900 MHz is the most common frequency for 3G, which is
unsupported for the current version of GX GSM.
In case of uncertainty please double-check: GSM World Coverage Map

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7. Technical Data
Outer dimensions (LxWxH) 106×42.5×22 mm (Drawing)
Voltage range 8..70 VDC
Power draw
2.5 W while 2G/3G data transfer
<1.0 W in idle mode
+0.4 W if GPS is enabled
Recommended fuse size
500 mA @ 12 V
250 mA @ 24 V
100 mA @ 48 V
Wire gauge (power cable) 0.5..1.5mm² / AWG 28..16
Antenna connector Type SMA Female
SIM card Regular Mini SIM
8. Accessory / Antennas
Outdoor 2G and 3G GSM Antenna
Part number GSM900100100
Mounting option Screw Mount
Cable Type Rg-316
Cable Length 0.25 m
Connector SMA Male Straight
Frequencies 800/900/1800/1900/2100 MHz
Signal Gain 3 dbi
Active GPS Antenna

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Part number GSM900200100
Mounting option Magnet
Cable Type Rg-174
Cable Length 3.0 m
Connector SMA Male Straight
Frequency 1575.42 MHz
Impedance 50 Ω
From:
https://www.victronenergy.com/live/ - Victron Energy
Permanent link:
https://www.victronenergy.com/live/venus-os:gx-gsm
Last update: 2019-06-16 20:20