General Dynamics Itronix T5200SB320 User Manual Manual

General Dynamics Itronix Corporation Manual

SB320 User Guide

Sierra WirelessSB300 Series OEM ModemsUser’s Guide2110059 Rev 1.0February 1999
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page iImportant NoticeBecause of the nature of wireless communications, transmission and reception of data can never be guaranteed.Data may be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors) or be totally lost. Although significant delays or losses of data arerare when wireless devices such as the Sierra Wireless modem are used in a normal manner with a well-constructednetwork, the Sierra Wireless modem should not be used in situations where failure to transmit or receive data couldresult in damage of any kind to the user or any other party, including but not limited to personal injury, death, or lossof property. Sierra Wireless, Inc., accepts no responsibility for damages of any kind resulting from delays or errorsin data transmitted or received using the Sierra Wireless modem, or for failure of the Sierra Wireless modem totransmit or receive such data.Safety and HazardsDo not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in areas where blasting is in progress, where explosive atmospheres maybe present, near medical equipment, near life support equipment, or any equipment which may be susceptible to anyform of radio interference. In such areas, the Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE TURNED OFF. The SierraWireless modem can transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment.Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in any aircraft, whether the aircraft is on the ground or in flight. Inaircraft, the Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE TURNED OFF. When operating, the Sierra Wireless modem cantransmit signals that could interfere with various onboard systems.The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the Sierra Wireless modem while in control of a vehicle.Doing so will detract from the driver or operator’s control and operation of that vehicle. In some states andprovinces, operating such communications devices while in control of a vehicle is an offence.PatentsPortions of this product are covered by some or all of the following US patents: D367062, D372248, D372701,5515013, 5617106, 5629960, 5682602, 5748449, and other patents pending.Copyright©1999 Sierra Wireless, Inc. All rights reserved.Printed in Canada.No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by anymeans, without the prior permission of the publisher.The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the partof Sierra Wireless, Inc. Sierra Wireless, Inc. shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages resultingfrom the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual.The Watcher™ and WirelessExpert™ software described in this manual are copyright 1998 Sierra Wireless, Inc. Allrights reserved.TrademarksWatcher™ and WirelessExpert™ are trademarks of Sierra Wireless, Inc.Windows® and Microsoft® are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.Hayes™ is a trademark of Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc.All other brand or product names, logos, trademarks, etc. mentioned in this manual are owned by their respectivecompanies.
SB300 Series Modems User’s GuidePage ii Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0Regulatory InformationThe equipment certifications appropriate to your device are marked on the device and the accompanying productspecific information. Where appropriate, the use of the equipment is subject to the following conditions:CAUTIONUnauthorized modifications or changes not expressly approved by Sierra Wireless, Inc.could void compliance with regulatory rules, and thereby your authority to use thisequipment.!!WARNING (EMI) - United States FCC InformationThis equipment has been tested and found to comply with the Class B limits pursuant toPart 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protectionagainst harmful interference in an appropriate installation. This equipment generates,uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used inaccordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radiocommunication. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in aparticular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio ortelevision reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, theuser is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the followingmeasures:• Reorient 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 thereceiver is connected• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help!!WARNING (EMI) – CanadaThis digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissionsfrom digital apparatus as set out in the interference causing equipment standardentitled 'Digital Apparatus', ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.Cet appareil numérique respecte les limites de bruits radioélectriques applicables auxappareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans la norme sur le matériel brouilleur:'Appareils Numériques', NHB-003 édictée par le ministre des Communications.RSA LicenseeIf you have purchased this product under a United States Government contract, it shall be subject torestrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of Defense Federal Acquisitions Regulations(DFARs) Section 252.227-7013 for Department of Defense contracts, and as set forth in FederalAcquisitions Regulations (FARs) Section 52.227-19 for civilian agency contracts or any successorregulations. If further government regulations apply, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with suchregulations.
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page iiiContact InformationSierra Wireless, Inc. Telephone: (604) 231-110013575 Commerce Parkway Fax: (604) 231-1109Suite 150Richmond, BC e-mail: support@sierrawireless.comV6V 2L1 Web: www.sierrawireless.comCustomer ServiceHelp DeskOpen between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time(604) 231-1128Warranty and Service DeskOpen between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time(604) 231-1157support@sierrawireless.comSales DeskOpen between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time(604) 231-1100sales@sierrawireless.comWebConsult our webpage forup-to-date product descriptions, documentation,application notes, firmware upgrades,troubleshooting tips, and press releases:wwwwww..ssiieerrrraawwiirreelleessss..ccoomm
SB300 Series Modems User’s GuidePage iv Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page vContentsGetting Started1. About this Guide ...........................................................................11.1. Introduction.......................................................................................................11.1.1. Getting Started....................................................................................11.1.2. Operational View................................................................................11.1.3. Hardware View...................................................................................11.1.4. OEM Developer’s Toolkit Checklist ...................................................21.2. References..........................................................................................................21.3. Currency............................................................................................................21.4. Document Structure...........................................................................................31.4.1. Modem Operations .............................................................................31.5. Conventions Used in this Reference ..................................................................32. Getting Started..............................................................................52.1. Introduction.......................................................................................................52.2. Registration........................................................................................................52.2.1. CDPD.................................................................................................52.2.2. CSC (AMPS)......................................................................................62.2.3. Wireline .............................................................................................62.3. Setup Considerations.........................................................................................62.3.1. Host Computer Terminal.....................................................................62.3.2. Physical considerations.......................................................................72.3.3. Antenna considerations.......................................................................72.4. MIB Presets .......................................................................................................72.5. Connections........................................................................................................7The Operational View3. Software Installation ...................................................................113.1. Introduction.....................................................................................................113.2. Installing Software on the Host .......................................................................113.3. Configuration using WirelessExpert...............................................................123.4. About Watcher ................................................................................................13
SB300 Series Modems User’s GuidePage vi Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.03.5. Using Watcher for Modem Setup....................................................................133.5.1. Configuring Watcher........................................................................133.5.2. Configuring Cellular Settings using Watcher.....................................143.6. Monitoring CDPD With Watcher...................................................................153.7. About the Watcher Program Window............................................................163.7.1. Icon Status .......................................................................................163.7.2. Watcher Menus and Commands........................................................163.7.3. Toolbar Buttons................................................................................183.7.4. Status Indicators...............................................................................183.7.5. Updating Status Indicators................................................................183.7.6. Quitting Watcher..............................................................................183.8. Updating Modem Firmware............................................................................194. Basic Modem Operation..............................................................214.1. Introduction.....................................................................................................214.2. Modem Modes and States ...............................................................................214.2.1. Modes ..............................................................................................214.2.2. States ...............................................................................................214.2.3. Conditions........................................................................................224.3. Modem Communications with the Host (DTE) ..............................................224.3.1. DTE Communication Options...........................................................224.3.2. DTR Signal Handling.......................................................................224.3.3. DSR Signal Control..........................................................................234.3.4. Local Flow Control ..........................................................................234.3.5. Result Code Formats ........................................................................234.4. Communication Protocols and Stacks ............................................................244.4.1. SB300 Series Internal Protocol Stacks ..............................................244.5. Modem Handshaking (SB320) ........................................................................254.5.1. Modem Protocol Layers....................................................................254.5.2. CSC vs. Wireline..............................................................................265. CDPD Operation...........................................................................295.1. Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) Introduction........................................295.1.1. Security............................................................................................295.1.2. Architecture.....................................................................................305.1.3. Modem Registration.........................................................................305.1.4. CDPD Radio Coverage.....................................................................315.1.5. CDPD and the SB300 Series Modems...............................................31
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page vii5.2. Configuring NEI Entries .................................................................................325.2.1. NEI Table.........................................................................................325.2.2. SPNI Matching.................................................................................335.3. CDPD Network Registration ...........................................................................335.3.1. Active and Auto-register NEI Indices................................................345.3.2. Manual Registration..........................................................................345.3.3. Automatic Registration .....................................................................355.3.4. De-registration..................................................................................355.4. Monitoring the Network Connection...............................................................365.4.1. Radio Signal Monitors ......................................................................365.4.2. Registration Status............................................................................365.5. Sleep Mode.......................................................................................................375.5.1. CDPD Sleep .....................................................................................375.5.2. Logic Sleep.......................................................................................375.6. Friends Only ....................................................................................................385.7. Packet Services ................................................................................................385.7.1. Serial Line Interface Protocol (SLIP).................................................385.7.2. User Datagram Protocol (UDP).........................................................405.7.3. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)................................................465.8. Packet Assembly Management........................................................................515.9. Data and Telemetry Applications....................................................................526. CSC Operation.............................................................................536.1. Introduction.....................................................................................................536.1.1. Modem Registration .........................................................................536.1.2. CSC Radio Coverage........................................................................536.1.3. Modem Pools....................................................................................546.2. Configuring the Modem for CSC ....................................................................546.2.1. Setting the NAM...............................................................................546.2.2. Confirm CSC Service........................................................................556.3. Originate a CSC Connection ...........................................................................556.4. Auto-answer a Cellular Call............................................................................566.5. Optimizing Data Performance.........................................................................566.5.1. Factory Default for ETC ...................................................................566.5.2. Connections to ETC Enabled Modems ..............................................586.5.3. Connections to Non-ETC Compatible Modems .................................586.5.4. Connections to Modem Pools............................................................59
SB300 Series Modems User’s GuidePage viii Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.07. Wireline Operation.......................................................................617.1. Introduction.....................................................................................................617.1.1. Hardware .........................................................................................617.2. Configuring the Modem for Wireline .............................................................617.2.1. Connecting to another Wireline Modem or Modem Pool...................617.2.2. Connecting to a Cellular Modem ......................................................617.3. Originate a Wireline Connection ....................................................................627.4. Auto-answer a Wireline Call...........................................................................638. Troubleshooting ..........................................................................658.1. Introduction.....................................................................................................658.2. General Modem Problems...............................................................................658.3. General Communication Problems.................................................................668.4. CDPD Problems...............................................................................................668.5. CSC Problems .................................................................................................678.6. Wireline Problems...........................................................................................67The Hardware View9. Product Descriptions...................................................................699.1. Hardware Integration Considerations............................................................699.2. Specifications Common to All Modems ..........................................................709.2.1. Application Interface Specifications..................................................709.2.2. RF Features......................................................................................709.2.3. Special Features ...............................................................................709.2.4. Environmental Specifications ...........................................................719.2.5. Connector Part Numbers...................................................................719.3. SB300 CDPD Modem ......................................................................................739.3.1. Mechanical.......................................................................................739.3.2. Connectors.......................................................................................749.3.3. Power Specifications ........................................................................749.3.4. Electrical..........................................................................................74
SB300 Series Modems User’s Guide2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page ix9.4. SB302 Specifications........................................................................................799.4.1. Mechanical.......................................................................................799.4.2. Connectors .......................................................................................799.4.3. Power Specifications.........................................................................809.4.4. Electrical..........................................................................................809.5. SB320 Specifications........................................................................................839.5.1. Mechanical.......................................................................................839.5.2. Connectors .......................................................................................849.5.3. Power Specifications.........................................................................849.5.4. Electrical..........................................................................................849.5.5. SB320 Communication Mode Specifications.....................................8810. Multipurpose Interface Board.....................................................89Introduction............................................................................................................8910.1.1. Features............................................................................................8910.2. Board Description .....................................................................................9010.2.1. Schematic.........................................................................................9010.2.2. Parts Layout......................................................................................9010.3. Power Supply ............................................................................................9110.3.1. Voltage Adjustment..........................................................................9110.3.2. Using Power from Host (DTE)..........................................................9110.4. Connections...............................................................................................9110.4.1. PC Host (DTE) RS-232 Serial Connection ........................................9110.4.2. Host (DTE) Connection for SB302....................................................9210.4.3. Protocol Analyzer Connection...........................................................9210.4.4. SB300 / SB320 Modem Connection..................................................9210.4.5. SB302 Modem Connection ...............................................................9310.4.6. SB220 Modem Conneciton ...............................................................9310.5. Jumpers.....................................................................................................9410.5.1. Main Jumper Block...........................................................................9410.5.2. Power Select.....................................................................................9510.5.3. SPK EN – Speaker Enable ................................................................9510.6. Serial Breakout Box ..................................................................................9510.6.1. DIP Switch.......................................................................................9510.6.2. Serial Connection Indicators .............................................................95
SB300 Series Modems User’s GuidePage xProprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.010.7. Test Points.................................................................................................9610.7.1. TP1 DISC ........................................................................................9610.7.2. TP2 KEY .........................................................................................9610.7.3. TP3 5V Adjusted..............................................................................9610.7.4. TP4 5V Setting.................................................................................9610.7.5. TP5 Debug for 5V / GND.................................................................9610.7.6. TP6 Unused .....................................................................................9610.7.7. Current Measurement .......................................................................9610.8. Reset Button..............................................................................................9610.9. Initial Setup ..............................................................................................97
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 11. About this Guide1.1. IntroductionThis guide is intended to assist both hardware integrators and application software developers withthe setup, installation, testing, and design of applications for the Sierra Wireless SB300 SeriesOEM modems. You should be familiar with the use of modems, communication media (PSTNand Cellular), protocols, and the use of AT commands.This guide describes the full feature set of the entire SB300 series, so some sections may not applyto the particular model you are using. Consult the Product Descriptions for a summary of thefeatures available on each product.1.1.1. Getting StartedChapter 2 covers the setup up of the OEM Developer’s Toolkit (the toolkit) and establishing hostcommunication with the modem. If you have any uncertainties about the Multipurpose InterfaceBoard (MIB), the modem, or the connectors, consult the Hardware View reference chapters.1.1.2. Operational ViewThe main body of this document covers the operational issues of the SB300 Series modems.Installation and use of the application software Watcher and WirelessExpert™ is covered. Theseprograms are designed to manage use of the modem in a Microsoft Windows® 95/98/NTenvironment without the need for further interface programming.If custom applications are required, additional information is provided covering connection issuesand tips for writing applications. A complete reference to the available modem commands is in aseparate document (2110031 included with the toolkit).Use of a terminal application for initial setup and testing of a modem may be required. Terminalemulation software is not provided nor described in this guide.1.1.3. Hardware ViewThis guide provides product descriptions of the SB300 Series OEM modems including theinformation needed for the physical integration of the modems.A full description of the Multipurpose Interface Board provided with the OEM Developer’sToolkit is also included in this guide.
SB300 Series User’s Guide Page 2Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.01.1.4. OEM Developer’s Toolkit ChecklistYour toolkit should include the following parts:SWI Part No. Description1200054 Multipurpose Interface Board (MIB)1900000 AC Adapter006.0011 10’ Serial Cable with 9-pin D connectors006.0002 Telephone Cable2000067 16-Pin Ribbon Connector (for SB302)2000068 30-Pin Flat Flex Cable (for SB300 and SB320)2000071 13-Pin I/O connector (for SB320)1810009 Magnetic Mount Cellular Antenna with coaxial cable2000066 Cable Adapter for antenna coax to SB modems.Software envelope with licensing agreement containing:Watcher and WirelessExpert™ Revision 3.2.1 or above.2110031 SB300 Series OEM Modems AT Command Reference2110059 SB300 Series OEM Modems User’s Guide (this document)1.2. ReferencesFor detailed information on the command interface of an SB300 Series modem, consult the SierraWireless SB300 Series OEM Modems AT Command Reference, document number 2110031,included in toolkit.For additional details of specific uses for these commands, troubleshooting tips, and the latestupdates, refer to the Sierra Wireless Internet site at www.sierrawireless.com.For background information on the nature of wireless communications consult your cellularservice provider and/or their Internet site. All major service providers provide web-basedinformation on CSC and CDPD.1.3. CurrencyThis document is under ongoing revision to maintain currency with product development. Pleasecheck our web site frequently for revisions. This edition is:Rev 1.0 February 11, 1999This document is current with modem firmware revision R1.0.1. To determine your firmwarerevision you must establish a host terminal connection to your modem as described in the nextchapter and follow these steps:1. Enter the Identification command ATI5The modem will respond with the Firmware revision information:R1-0-1 …The details following the revision number may vary depending on the mode of the modem.If your modem firmware is an earlier version, you can download the updated version from ourweb site at www.sierrawireless.com. Instructions for updating the modem firmware are containedin Section 3.8 Updating Modem Firmware.
Introduction2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 31.4. Document StructureThis document focuses on the operational view. The hardware view is covered in a referencesection at the end.There is a Getting Started chapter in this section intended to help you quickly get the toolkitcomponents connected and communicating.The operational view follows, starting with the basics of the Watcher and WirelessExpert™software provided with the toolkit. Important background on the modem basics, includingterminology used in this guide, starts you into the operational elements of getting your modemconfigured and operating. There are separate chapters covering modem operation in each of thethree possible modes with sample configurations.The hardware view is covered in two chapters. The first describes the modem productdescriptions including the hardware integration issues of each of the modems. The second is areference to the Multipurpose Interface Board (MIB) used to test and configure the modem duringproduct development.1.4.1. Modem OperationsThe various modes, states, and conditions the modem can be placed in are described in the chapteron Basic Modem Operations. That chapter also discusses the communication interface betweenthe host (DTE) and the modem.The types of protocols supported in each mode are described but examples of configuring themodem will be found in the chapters on operations for each specific mode.1.5. Conventions Used in this ReferenceHardware signals are named with a convention of:NAME active high (5 Volts)\NAME active low (0 Volts)Result Code – This is a numeric or text code that is returned after all commands (except resets).Response – This term indicates a response from the modem which is issued prior to a return code.Reading registers or issuing commands that report information will provide a response followedby a return code unless the command generates an error.Hexadecimal values are shown with a prefix of 0x, i.e. in the form 0x3F.Character codes which are described with words or standard abbreviations are shown within anglebrackets: such as <CR> for Carriage Return and <space> for a blank space character.AT Command and register syntax is noted using an alternate font:AT+WS46=4
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2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 52. Getting Started2.1. IntroductionThis chapter guides you through the initial physical setup of a host terminal (usually a PC), theMultipurpose Interface Board (MIB), and a modem. Related start-up issues such as cellularactivation are also covered. If you have any difficulties, consult the reference chapters in theHardware View to become more familiar with the components and their setup.After completing this chapter, you should be able to communicate (DTE to DCE) with the modemby using AT commands from a host terminal. Modem connection to a remote modem is notcovered until the Operational View.The chapters immediately following deal with the Operational View. Software Installation willdeal with the installation on a host PC of the Watcher and WirelessExpert™ software which makefurther configuration of the modem and testing on a CDPD network (if applicable) much simpler.A reference section covering the Hardware View follows at the end of the manual.2.2. RegistrationBefore you can use your modem for wireless communication you must register it with a cellularservice provider. This section describes what they will need to know and what information theywill provide to you.Contact your service provider to get the registration process started. While the service provider isgetting your account configured, you can install and configure your modem. Record theinformation provided by your carrier for configuring the modem later.In any coverage area there can be two providers, each assigned to a “side” (A or B) of the cellularwaveband. Each provider is also assigned a Service Provider Network Identifier (SPNI) number.2.2.1. CDPDTo use your modem in CDPD mode it must be activated on a CDPD network by a serviceprovider. To register your modem for Wireless IP activation on CDPD networks, contact yourlocal CDPD service provider.Give the CDPD service provider the Equipment Identifier (EID). This is the identificationnumber of the radio/modem. A Sierra Wireless modem EID has the following format:00-A0-D5-xx-xx-xxLook for this number on the back of your modem and on a label affixed to the outside of thepackage that the modem was shipped in. If only the ESN (Electronic Serial Number) can be foundyou can convert it to a Sierra Wireless EID by expressing the last 8 digits as hexadecimal values.For example:ESN: 206 - 00057628 =EID: 00-A0-D5-00-E1-1C57628 =0xE11CThe EID number is also available by querying the modem with the AT+WPEID command.The CDPD service provider supplies the following:1. Modem address, sometimes referred to as a Network Entity Identifier (NEI). This may alsobe referred to as your Internet Protocol (IP) address. This identifies your modem on a CDPDnetwork and on the Internet.
SB300 Series User’s Guide Page 6Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.02. IP address of a router or server to ping when testing the connection. This may be a DomainName Server (DNS).Both of the above items are in the form of an IP number. This is made up of four numbersranging in value from 0 to 255, separated with periods (sample: 192.168.0.9)3. Side designator, A or B. This determines the channels used by your CDPD service provider.4. SPNI number of the provider. This is optional. The Service Provider Network Identifier(SPNI) can be used to restrict the modem to accepting service from a limited list of providersand can help speed up cellular channel acquisition and registration.This information will be required when configuring your modem for CDPD registration eitherwith WirelessExpert or AT commands.2.2.2. CSC (AMPS)To use your SB320 modem in CSC mode it must be activated with a cellular phone serviceprovider. To register your modem for CSC activation, contact your local cellular carrier.Give the service provider the Electronic Serial Number (ESN). This is the identification numberof the radio/modem. A Sierra Wireless ESN has the following format: 206-xxxxxxxx. Look forthis number on the back of your modem and on a label affixed to the outside of the package thatthe modem was shipped in. The number is also available by querying the modem with theAT+WVESN command.The cellular service provider supplies the following:1. A Number Assignment Module (NAM). This is your cellular telephone number and yourHome System ID (SID).2. Side designator, A or B. This determines the channels used by your service provider.This information will be required when configuring your modem for CSC mode use either withWirelessExpert or AT commands.2.2.3. WirelineThere are no particular setup issues to configure your SB320 modem for use in wireline mode. Itis required that the telephone line be analogue and not digital as found on some PBX systems.2.3. Setup Considerations2.3.1. Host Computer TerminalYou will require a PC with a communications program capable of operating in ASCII terminalemulation mode. This allows the PC to function as a terminal attached to the modem and permitsthe entering of AT commands required for modem setup and diagnostics. We recommend that theprogram chosen be capable of logging terminal communications activity to a file for later analysisor printout in the event that technical support is required.For IBM PC-compatibles, Windows Terminal, Hyperterminal, Procomm, and Kermit are allacceptable. Note that early versions of Hyperterminal do not allow you to send SLIP framingcharacters to the modem, preventing use of the escape sequence. This is corrected in laterversions.A 9-pin D connector RS-232 serial cable (part number 006.0011) is provided with the OEMDeveloper’s Kit for connecting the PC host to the Multipurpose Interface Board.
Getting Started2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 72.3.2. Physical considerationsNOTEThe MIB and modem can be sensitive to static so the work surface should be a staticcontrolled environment.2.3.3. Antenna considerationsThe SB300 Series modem uses standard mobile cellular radio signals. An antenna (partnumber 1810009) is provided with the OEM Developer’s Kit. Along with this antenna is aconnector adapter (part number 2000066) to convert the antenna connector (Male SMA) to matchthe modem requirement (Male MMCX).You can use an antenna of your own if you choose. Any standard cellular antenna of good qualitywith a maximum system gain of 3 dB (FCC requirement) will function properly provided youhave a suitable connector.Antenna performance is subject to the following guidelines:Location – Locate the antenna as far away from personnel as possible to minimize signalblocking. For optimum reception, in indoor fixed location applications, position the antennaabove the height of personnel and nearby equipment or structures. Locate the antenna as close to awindow as possible.Cabling – Select a low loss, high quality, 50-ohm, coaxial cable with the appropriate connectors.The cable can be any length, but lengths greater than 4 metres (13.1 feet) increase cable loss andoffset the antenna’s nominal gain. If longer length cables are required, use a heavier wire gauge toreduce the dB loss/m and to minimize the effect of the cable loss on antenna gain.Ground Plane – For installations where a good antenna ground plane (metal surface) is notavailable, use a non-ground plane type of antenna to help maximize signal reception.Proximity to Other Antennas – In general, do not locate the SB300 Series modem and itsantenna closer than 1.5 metres (5 feet) to another antenna. In certain cases even more separation isrequired. The effect of the interference from two-way transmitters varies from slowing downresponse times to blocking modem transmission.2.4. MIB PresetsThe Multipurpose Interface Board has several switches and jumpers which should be configuredas follows for the initial setup.• DIP Switch in the Serial Breakout Box:Switches 1 through 8 should be closed (on)Switches 9 and 10 open (off).• Power Select (J21) should be on pins 1 – 2 (+5V).• HOSTSHDN, \SHDN, and MODEM DIS jumpers on J24 should all be off.• Speaker Enable should be on.2.5. ConnectionsThis section describes the steps to connect the PC host, MIB, and modem. At the end of thisprocedure you should be ready to configure and use the modem. If results at any step are not asdescribed, consult the chapter on troubleshooting.To connect follow these steps:1. Attach the RS-232 serial cable from the host to the MIB PC Serial Port connector (J1).The Serial Breakout Box indicators for DTR, TxD, and RTS should all light (powered fromthe RS-232 connection).
SB300 Series User’s Guide Page 8Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.02. Start the terminal application on the host PC. Configure the application for the port connectedto the MIB. At this time, the modem requires a setting of 19200 bps, 8 data, no parity, 1 stop,with hardware (RTS/CTS) flow control.3. Instruct the terminal application to connect.The DTR and RTS indicators should be green. The TxD indicator should be red.4. Attach the appropriate modem connector strap to the MIB port for the modem to be used.• SB302 – 2x8-pin ribbon with connectors.• SB300 and SB320 – 30-pin 5mm flex strap (without connectors).To make the SB300/320 connection:i. Open the hinged SB300/SB320 connector on the MIB by lifting it away from theedge of the board.ii. Slide the strap into the connector with the contact side down (coloured side up).Be sure it is fully inserted.iii. Close the connector by pressing down on the ends of the connector rather than thecentre.iv. Connect the 13-pin I/O cable to the MIB and the modem. This connector is keyedto prevent connection error.5. Attach the modem to the connector strap using the same procedure as the MIB end of theconnector.NOTEAlthough the MIB provides support for the full SB Series of modems, it is not intendedto support more than one modem at a time. Attaching more than one modem candamage circuitry.6. Place the antenna is a suitable location, attach the antenna connector adapter to the antennacable, and attach the cable to the modem.
Getting Started2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 97. Ensure the modem power switch is OFF.8. Connect the 12V DC power supply to the MIB. The remaining LED indicators should comeon. Power indicators for 7V and 5V should show red. The Serial Breakout Box indicatorsshould all light; the DSR signal shows green. All status indicators (S01 – S03) should showred.9. Switch on the modem power using the POWER switch on the MIB.The Status indicators should go off and then begin operation to specification as the modeminitializes. In about 6 to 10 seconds (following the modem’s internal initialization) the CTSserial signal should go green and OK should appear on the PC terminal.10. Type AT<enter> at the host terminal. The modem should reply with OK.The modem is now ready to be used with the host computer.You may now continue to use the modem with the terminal application, or you may close theterminal application and use Watcher and WirelessExpert (described below) to configure and usethe modem.
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2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 11The Operational View3. Software Installation3.1. IntroductionThis chapter provides instructions for installing Watcher and WirelessExpert™ on a host PC andusing these programs to configure and use the modem. It also includes procedures for updatingthe firmware on the modem if needed.NOTERunning WirelessExpert is required before using Watcher. WirelessExpert will installand configure necessary drivers on the host PC.WatcherWatcher is a Windows application that configures and monitors Sierra Wireless modems forCDPD, Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC), and Wireline operation. This chapter explains how toinstall Watcher and describes basic Watcher operations and important screen elements.WirelessExpertInstallation of the drivers required for modem operations is performed with an installation wizardcalled WirelessExpert. This can be run at any time to view and edit the cellular activation settings(NAMs, NEIs, etc.). It allows you to test cellular connections.3.2. Installing Software on the HostThe software is provided on CD-ROM. The CD is self-starting when inserted into a PC runningWindows 95/98/NT. An installation wizard will guide you through the process.A menu folder is added to the Start > Programs menu:
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 12 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.03.3. Configuration using WirelessExpertWirelessExpert will automatically locate the modem on a COM port, interrogate it for features,and install the required drivers on your host PC. It will then allow you to set or alter the cellularactivation settings.To make the modem drivers available to the Windows operating system, the PC may be restartedpart way through the execution of WirelessExpert. This is done automatically but does requirethat no other programs are running on the PC at the time.Preparation:1. Ensure the host serial connection to the modem via the MIB is in place and the modem poweris on. The full set of serial communication LED indicators should be on.2. For CDPD configurations:a. Ensure the modem is in CDPD mode (+WS46=4). This can be queried (AT+WS46?) toverify.b. Ensure the modem is set to auto-register (+WS173=1).3. Close any open applications on the host PC including any communication program connectedto the modem. A system restart supervised by WirelessExpert may fail if other programs arerunning. Leave the modem on.4. Have the NAM / NEI and related information from your cellular service provider ready. SeeSection 2.2 for information on cellular service registration.Installation:1. Select Start > Programs > Watcher > WirelessExpert from the Windows taskbar.2. Select the modem being used from the list:SB320 – OR – SB300 Series for the SB300 or 3023. Click Next > and then Next > again to skip the page regarding setup of other modemproducts. WirelessExpert then locates the COM port connected to the modem and finds therelated registry entries for it. The results are displayed.4. Click Next > to have WirelessExpert install the appropriate drivers for the modem.5. A message may appear advising of the need to restart the computer. Click OK.WirelessExpert shuts down the computer and restarts it for you.6. When the setup wizard reappears, continue to click Next > until you pass the section onconnectivity components. WirelessExpert now examines the modem for cellular networkactivation, reading any NAM and NEI entries stored on the modem.7. The next page allows you to set the level of access to the configuration settings that will beallowed to the Watcher program. Setting “full access” will allow Watcher to alter the NAM /NEI settings, “read-only” will allow Watcher to display the settings but you will have to useWirelessExpert or direct AT commands to alter settings.8. For SB320 installations, the NAM entries for CSC activation will be presented for entry andediting. This screen is automatically skipped for CDPD only modems.9. For SB320 installations, WirelessExpert can test the connection provided you have aregistered NAM and a number to dial. This tests that the modem can obtain a cellular channeland place a call. The called station can be your own voice line if you simply want to verifythat the modem can reach a destination phone number. The test can be skipped by markingthe checkbox on the screen. This test screen is automatically skipped for CDPD onlymodems.10. The CDPD settings of the modem are displayed for entry and editing. A radio button sets theactive NEI for use. A pull-down menu allows setting of the channel side preference.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 1311. You are prompted to enter an IP address for a Domain Name Server (DNS). Your cellularservice provider should have provided one. This address is used for testing the CDPDconfiguration by “pinging” the provided address.12. The CDPD settings can now be tested by WirelessExpert and will be setup in the WindowsDial-up Networking Connection facility. A pull-down menu allows you to select the NEI touse for the local end of the test. If you select one different from the radio button selection onthe previous screen, the new setting will become the default. This test will verify that you canregister with the CDPD network and will “ping” the DNS server to verify the connection.The test can be skipped if desired.13. Click Finish to complete the WirelessExpert configuration. The modem should now be readyfor use.WirelessExpert will have created an entry in Windows Dial-up Networking for CDPD mode. Youmay notice that it is configured to dial the number 2. This is normal. Although CDPDconnections do not actually dial a number, Windows Dial-up Networking requires that a telephonenumber be entered.3.4. About WatcherWatcher is a configuration and monitoring tool to manage Sierra Wireless modems. The programcan set the modem mode of operation (CDPD, CSC, or Wireline) and can be used to getinformation about cellular connections and signals. Watcher can also monitor modem connectionwhen using CDPD mode.WirelessExpert must be run initially to properly install and register the required connectivitycomponents with Windows. If you have not run WirelessExpert on the host PC to be used withthe modem it must be done before using Watcher.3.5. Using Watcher for Modem SetupWhen Watcher is started, it will check a registry on the PC to see what mode the modem was lastused in. If it was CDPD then the program will open a CDPD connection using the settings in theDial-up Networking facility of Windows which were configured by WirelessExpert. If an SB320was last used in either CSC or Wireline mode then Watcher will attempt to set the modem to thatmode.To start Watcher:Select Start > Programs > Watcher > Watcher from the Windows taskbar.Watcher will locate and initialize the modem. It will then indicate the mode and condition of theconnection.3.5.1. Configuring WatcherWatcher has a setup dialog that lets you verify the Sierra Wireless modem connection to the COMport, and the basic configuration strings Watcher will use for Circuit Switched Cellular andWireline operation.To set up Watcher:1. Make sure the modem is powered on and is communicating with your PC.2. Select Options > Setup Watcher from the Watcher main menuThis will open the Setup Watcher dialog (next page).
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 14 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.03. Click the WirelessExpert… button to activate the installation wizard described above.4. If specialized setup strings are required for your installation, you can enter them here. Themodem uses configuration strings to optimize its operation in certain modes. The modemcomes preset with the most common configuration strings. See the specific sections on CSCand Wireline Operations for more information.CDPD mode does not offer special setups. To control CDPD mode use Options >Setup CDPD… described below.5. Click OK to save the configuration and return to the Watcher program window.3.5.2. Configuring Cellular Settings using WatcherWatcher’s ability to manage the cellular activation settings of the modem is set by WirelessExpert.If WirelessExpert has set the access level for Watcher to anything but full access, then Watchercannot be used to configure the settings.3.5.2.1. CDPD SettingsTo edit the modem configuration with Watcher:1. Select Start > Programs > Watcher > Watcher from the Windows taskbar.2. If the modem is not in CDPD mode then select Settings > CDPD from Watcher’s mainmenu.3. Select Options > Setup CDPD… from the Watcher main menu.The following window will open to allow configuration changes:Note that the modem’s EID is displayed at the top of the window.4. To change a NEI address you must click the Unlock button.5. The Channel Set is a side preference dictated by your cellular service provider.6. The SPNI box is used to enable the use of a restrictive list of service providers. When themodem is finding a channel, it can determine if a channel belongs to a provider whose SPNIis on the list. If the SPNI is not listed, then the modem will reject the channel and resumesearching. If the list is enabled, use the Setup… button to maintain the list of acceptedSPNIs.7. Registration mode allows you to select between manual and automatic registration. If manualis selected, Watcher will not try to register on the CDPD network until commanded to do so.Automatic will set Watcher to register the modem when the program is started.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 158. Sleep mode is discussed in the CDPD Operations chapter. Enabling it will allow the modemto reduce power consumption when it is inactive, but response times will be slowed. Thisfunction sets the sleep timer to 30 seconds.3.5.2.2. CSC SettingsIf you are using a SB320, you can place the modem in CSC mode using Watcher. The settings forCSC can then be accessed.To edit the modem’s CSC configuration with Watcher:1. Select Start > Programs > Watcher > Watcher from the Windows taskbar.2. If the modem is not in CSC mode then select Settings > Cellular from Watcher’s mainmenu.3. Select Options > Setup Cellular… from the Watcher main menu.The following window will open to allow configuration changes:Note that the modem’s ESN is displayed at the top of the window.4. Use a radio button to select the NAM to make active.5. To change a NAM entry you must delete the current value. The entry is formattedautomatically and will not allow more characters than will fit the format.6. The Home System ID will have been provided by your cellular carrier.7. Use the pull-down menu to select the Side Preference dictated by your cellular serviceprovider.8. The Description allows you to enter a text label to help you recognize the setting.3.6. Monitoring CDPD With WatcherTo monitor the state of the modem’s CDPD connection, you can leave Watcher running all thetime. The connection is established through Windows Dial-up Networking and Watcher is treatedas one socket to the connection. Other Internet clients can be used simultaneously.To monitor a CDPD connection:1. Select Start > Programs > Watcher > Watcher – or double-click the Watcher icon.The Watcher program window will open.2. Ensure the modem is registered in CDPD mode.3. Run other applications.Watcher will receive event information from the modem and update the channel and signalstrength indicators (described below) when the modem advises of an event. You can forceWatcher to update the display by selecting Window > Refresh from the Watcher main menu orpressing F5 when Watcher is the active window.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 16 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.03.7. About the Watcher Program WindowThe Watcher program window looks like this:The window can be set to always be on top of other active windows by using the Window >Always on Top option in the Watcher main menu. Selecting the option again will disable thefeature.The window can be minimized and the connection monitored by use of the icon shown in thetaskbar.3.7.1. Icon StatusWhen Watcher is minimized, the shape of the icon shown in the taskbar indicates the currentoperating mode and service status.Indicates the modem is registered in CDPD mode.Indicates the modem is unregistered in CDPD mode.Indicates the modem is in Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC) mode.Indicates the modem is in Wireline mode.Indicates the modem is not responding.3.7.2. Watcher Menus and CommandsThe Watcher program window contains the following menus:Settings Options Window HelpThese are described below.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 173.7.2.1. Settings MenuAny dimmed options are not available on the modem being used.Wireline Switches the modem to Wireline mode.Cellular Switches the modem to Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC) mode.CDPD Switches the modem to CDPD mode.Register Registers the modem on a CDPD network.Set Radio Channel… Displays options for setting the radio channel automatically or manually.Disable Transmitter Turns the transmitter off so the modem can only receive data. Whenselected a checkmark will appear beside it and the status line will indicatethe transmitter is disabled. Select the option again to re-enable thetransmitter.Exit Exits Watcher after gracefully shutting down any active modem connection.3.7.2.2. Options MenuAny dimmed options are not available on the modem being used.Setup Watcher… Displays the dialog box for configuring the Watcher modemconnection and the startup strings for the wireline and CSC modes ofoperations. See 3.5.1 Configuring Watcher for details.Setup Cellular… Displays a dialog box for configuring Circuit Switched Cellularmode. You must be in Wireline or Circuit Switched Cellular mode toselect this command. See 3.5.2.2 CSC Settings for detailsSetup CDPD… Displays a dialog box for configuring CDPD mode. You must be inCDPD mode to select this command. See 3.5.2.1 CDPD Settings fordetails.3.7.2.3. Window MenuRefresh F5 Updates the signal strength, and channel status indicators asappropriate.Always On Top Displays the Watcher program window on top of any currently activeapplication window. When selected a checkmark will appear beside it.Select the option again to disable the feature.3.7.2.4. Help MenuPressing F1 will open the main Watcher Help window. Other access to help features are:Contents… Displays the main Help topics.Search… Lets you search for keywords in Help.Current… Opens Watcher Help to a context sensitive page.Warranty Regisrtaion.. Displays a form for automated product registration via the Internet.About… Displays important information about the Watcher version; themodem version, EID, hardware and firmware revision, transmittertemperature, and the connectivity drivers.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 18 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.03.7.3. Toolbar ButtonsThe Watcher program window contains three buttons for selecting the operating mode, a buttonfor registering and de-registering your modem in CDPD mode. These buttons are describedbelow. If a button is dimmed, the option is not available on the current modem.Click to switch to Wireline mode.Click to switch to Circuit Switched Cellular mode.Click to switch to CDPD mode.Click to register the modem in CDPD mode. When the cables appear joined, themodem is registered.Click the button again to de-register the modem.3.7.4. Status Indicators¡Appears to the left of the Wireline button and indicates that Watcher is activelycommunicating with the modem in a non-packet mode (Wireline or CircuitSwitched Cellular).ll Appears to the left of the Wireline button and indicates that Watcher is activelycommunicating with the modem in a packet mode (CDPD).Shows the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI). Double-click on thegauge to display the value in dBm. “---” (flashing) Indicates that the modem is not locked onto a CDPD channel.Displays the current radio channel.3.7.5. Updating Status IndicatorsThe display will refresh automatically when the modem reports an event.To force an update of the status indicators, select Window > Refresh in the main menu or pressF5 when Watcher is the active window. Depending on the operating mode, the status indicatorsmay take a few seconds to update.3.7.6. Quitting WatcherTo quit Watcher:1. Click the close box in the top left corner of the Watcher program window.Watcher may take a moment to close while it gracefully closes a CDPD session and disconnectsfrom the modem.
User’s Guide Watcher and WirelessExpert2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 193.8. Updating Modem FirmwareShould your modem(s) require a firmware upgrade, this section describes the procedure.See Section 1.3 Currency for information on the current revisions at the time of this writing. Thatsection also describes the method to determine the firmware revision on the modem.When available, new firmware can be downloaded from the Sierra Wireless Internet site(www.sierrawireless.com). You may have the option to download a ZIP file (requiring eitherPKUNZIP ver 2.04g or WINZIP v5.6) or a slightly larger self-extracting executable file. Both ofthe ZIP utilities are available from links on the Sierra Wireless download page.To download the update:1. Create a folder on your PC in which to store the download.2. Click the chosen download link and save the file in the folder you have created.3. If the ZIP file was downloaded then Unzip it using your extraction utility.Before updating make sure you know which COM port your modem is connected to. Thisinformation is required by the upgrade utility.To upgrade the Modem firmware, you can run either:• SETUP.EXE program in Windows,– or –• INSTALL.BAT command file from DOS.DOS firmware upgrade:1. If you run the DOS option , EXIT Windows completely.2. Change Directory to the one with the downloaded firmware.3. Turn off the modem.4. Enter INSTALL <space> d where d is the COM Port number.Examples: INSTALL 1 (installs the firmware using COM 1)INSTALL 3 (installs the firmware using COM 3)5. Follow the Install instructions carefully.Windows firmware upgrade:1. Close all open applications.2. Turn off the modem.3. Run either the self extracting update file (which will expand and execute in one step) or theSETUP.EXE file.4. Select the COM port your modem is connected to.5. You will be prompted to turn on the modem. When you have done so, the installationprogram will automatically perform the balance of the update.Installation provides “thermometers” indicating the progress of the update. These are only aguideline. Do not be surprised if the update completes before the indicators have been updated.After the upgrade is complete you may delete the download folder or retain it for updatingadditional modems, as you choose.There are two elements to the firmware on the modems, bootstrap and application. Not all updatesrequire replacement of both files. If both files do need updating, treat each update separately andperform all steps for each. The boot firmware should be updated first.
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2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 214. Basic Modem Operation4.1. IntroductionThis chapter provides some fundamentals to the operation of Sierra Wireless OEM modems andsome configuration elements of the host (DTE) to modem communication. Importantconsiderations for wireless connections are covered here but specific techniques for setting up themodem for various remote operations are provided in chapters on each mode of operation.This chapter covers:• Important terminology on modem modes and states.• DTE / DCE communications link.• Introduction to communication protocols and protocol stacks.• Introduction to modem-to-modem handshaking and protocols.4.2. Modem Modes and StatesThe SB320 modem supports multiple modes of operation and various states within each mode.The other OEM modems only support CDPD mode but the states and conditions apply to them aswell.The commands and registers used depend on the modem’s operating mode. The state of themodem and its condition also determine how the modem will behave in any given situation.Depending on the product, the exact options available can differ. If a mode or state is notavailable on the product, commands related to those modes and states will return the ERRORresult code.The modes, states, and conditions of the modem are described in sub-sections below.4.2.1. ModesThe SB320 supports all of these modes while the SB30x family are CDPD mode only.• Wireline – connected to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using a cable(usually with RJ-11 connectors).• Circuit Switched Cellular (CSC) – connected to a cellular network using the AdvancedMobile Phone Service (AMPS).• Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) – connected to a cellular packet switched datanetwork. This mode requires use of an Internet Protocol (IP) stack, described below.4.2.2. StatesAll modes support at least two states:• Command – the modem exchanges data with the host (DTE) as AT commands and replies.• Data – communication is passed between the host and remote terminal as computer data.The modem’s state, in conjunction with its condition, will govern how the modem handles trafficto and from the host and to and from a remote modem.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 22 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.04.2.3. ConditionsIn addition to mode and state the modem can be in one of two conditions:• On-line – actively connected to a remote terminal or with an active session in CDPD.• Off-line – disconnected from any remote terminal or without an active session in CDPD.While in off-line condition the modem can only be in command state.In the on-line condition, the modem can be:• In data state which passes data through the modem between the host (DTE) and the remoteterminal.• In command state which exchanges data between the host (DTE) and the modem (DCE)without passing it through the active connection to the remote terminal.4.3. Modem Communications with the Host (DTE)Communication between the host (DTE) and the Sierra Wireless SB300 Series modems iscurrently fixed at:bps: 19200Data Bits: 8Parity: NoneStop Bits: 1Any application being used to issue AT commands must be configured this way.Local flow control is implemented in hardware (RTS / CTS).Autobaud support will be implemented in a later firmware release by April 1999 or earlier.4.3.1. DTE Communication OptionsAs shipped the modem is configured with these settings:• Echo enabled (E1) which causes the modem to echo characters received from the host back toit while in command state. The backspace is echoed as <backspace> <space> <backspace>.• Quiet result codes disabled (Q0) which enables the modem to issue result codes followingcommands.• Verbose result codes (V1) provide results in English text appended with <CR><LF>.• SB320 Speaker Control is set to be on until carrier detected (M1).This setting means that a host running a terminal emulation program for communication with themodem should have this configuration:• Emulation – TTY• ASCII characterSending:• No line ends with line feeds• No local character echoReceiving:• Do not append line feeds to incoming line ends• Do not force incoming data to 7-bit.• Wrap lines if necessaryCommands may be entered in upper or lower case.4.3.2. DTR Signal HandlingThe modem can be configured to handle the DTR signal from the host in several ways. The ATcommand &D sets the method. The factory default is to hang up any remote connection and entercommand state with auto-answer disabled (&D2).
User’s Guide Modem Basics2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 23If you experience difficulty entering command state from a data state you may wish to have themodem reset on DTR transition.The available options are:&D0 Ignore DTR&D1 Enter command state without changing on/off-line condition.&D2 Hang up and enter command state with auto-answer disabled.&D3 Reset immediately (no reply is issued). (SB320 only and not in CDPD)4.3.3. DSR Signal ControlThe SB300 Series modems will leave the DSR signal active whenever the modem is powered on.There is no control of this signal.4.3.4. Local Flow ControlThe modems currently handle only hardware flow control (RTS/CTS). This is the factory defaultas well. The SB320 in non-CDPD modes also supports the &K command to adjust this in futurefirmware revisions. The options are:&K0 Disable local flow control&K3 Use RTS/CTS hardware control&K4 Use XON/OFF software flow control. Don’t use this if these characters can be part of thedata stream.There is also an impact to flow control with the use of the Communication Mode command (&Q)available on the SB320 in non-CDPD modes. This command effects the use of internal databuffering at the modem. If buffering is disabled, so is flow control.4.3.5. Result Code FormatsThe modems normally issue result codes on completion of an AT command. This can be disabledwith quite mode (Q1). The default is to issue results in verbose (English text) form. Numericcodes can be selected by disabling the verbose option (V0).If echo is enabled (E1) the modem will append a <LF> to the echoed <CR> from the host. If echois off, then there is no <CR> or <LF> prior to the response to the command.Verbose result codes are returned with a trailing <CR><LF>.Numeric result codes are returned with a trailing <CR> without the line feed.Where the modem issues a response (data) prior to the result code, the response will have a <CR>and <LF> appended regardless of the echo, quiet, and verbose settings.A full diagram of the framing characters for both result codes and modem responses is provided inthe AT Command Reference (document 2110031) provided with the OEM Developer’s Toolkit.NOTE: Allow the modem a few seconds to respond to some commands. Where mode changesare involved the modem may require several seconds to reconfigure before responding. On powerup, following initial internal configuration, the modem will issue the OK result code to the hostwhether the host is actively receiving or not.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 24 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.04.4. Communication Protocols and StacksData communication protocols are generally discussed in relation to the Open SystemsInterconnection (OSI) model. The OSI model was introduced in 1978 as a long-term project ofthe International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It divides the communications processinto seven distinct layers, stacked one above the other, hence the term protocol stack. This is verydifferent from the computer processing use of the term stack for a LIFO buffer.Table 4-1:The OSI ModelLayer Description Common Protocols7 – Application This is the window between the end-userapplication and the communications process. Itincludes functions such as login and passwordchecks, and resource allocation.Application programsfor file transfer,e-mail, etc.6 – Presentation Responsible for terminal management such ascharacter set interpretation (i.e. ASCII, ANSI) andcode conversion.5 – Session Session management includes data-flowsynchronization, mapping addresses with names,handling graceful and abrupt disconnections, anddata buffering. This layer organizes data intoSession Protocol Data Units (SPDUs).Telnet, FTP, SMTP,etc.4 – Transport Transport Protocol Data Units (TPDUs) areassembled at this layer. This can includemultiplexing and demultiplexing, error detectionand recovery, and packet reordering where thenetwork can receive packets along different routeswhich can arrive out of sequence.UDP, TCP3 – Network Data is organized into packets which are dataframes with network headers and trailers addedincluding network addressing. The duties includeflow control, handling network service data units,notifying the transport layer of errors, and possiblysequenced delivery.IP, SLIP, PPP2 – Link This layer arranges the bits into frames. It alsoestablishes and releases one or more linkconnections.Network InterfaceCards, Modems1 – Physical This is the physical connection layer concernedwith carrying the communication of digital data. Transmission Media:Twisted Pair, FibreOptics, CellularRadio, etc.4.4.1. SB300 Series Internal Protocol StacksThe SB300 Series modems are designed to provide the bottom two layers, Link and Physical. Themodem will handle acquiring a telephone line or cellular channel to provide the physicalconnection.In CDPD mode, the SB300 Series modems are also capable of supporting the next two layers atthe user’s option. Both UDP and TCP Packet Assembly/Disassembly (PAD) services areavailable along with IP and SLIP network support. The modems do not currently support PPP butit will be implemented in a later firmware release by April 1999 or earlier.
User’s Guide Modem Basics2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 25CSC and Wireline modes require that the host system provide the protocol stack for layers 3 andabove if they are needed. Windows Dial-up Networking can provide the TCP/IP stack. OtherWindows-based Internet clients can provide the higher layers for file transfer, e-mail, and otherservices.4.5. Modem Handshaking (SB320)For two modems to communicate with each other, it is imperative that they speak the same“language”, i.e. they use the same protocol(s). CDPD establishes a single protocol for itscommunications, but CSC and Wireline modes can use any of several protocols. The followingdiscussion is for users of CSC and Wireline modes on the SB320 modem.Because of the variety of protocols that are available for modem communications, a modem willusually support several protocols to enable it to connect to a variety of modems. In the process ofa modem establishing a connection with another modem, there will be a negotiation phase duringwhich the two modems exchange basic information to determine which protocol(s) shall be usedfor the present connection.If the modems can agree on a communication scheme using one or more of their availableprotocols, they will proceed to establish a connection. At this point, the modems are ready to passdata to their respective DTEs where the application software runs. If the modems fail to agree ona communication scheme due, for instance, to the lack of a common protocol, the connectionattempt is aborted and the modems disconnect, or go on hook.4.5.1. Modem Protocol LayersThe communication protocols used by modems can be divided in 3 categories or layers as shownin the figure below. Each layer operates independently of the layer above it. A modemconnection may be established using one or more of these layers, starting from the lowest layerand including more layers as required by the situation.Local Modem Remote ModemData Compression(V.42bis, MNP5)Error Control(LAPM, MNP2-4, MNP10)Data Communication(V.34, V.32bis, V.32, ...)Data Compression(V.42bis, MNP5)Error Control(LAPM, MNP2-4, MNP10)Data Communication(V.34, V.32bis, V.32, ...)Receive DataTransmit DataFigure 4-1: Modem Protocol Layers4.5.1.1. Data CommunicationThe lowest layer is that which is closest to the hardware and it deals with the modulation schemeused to transmit and receive the raw data that is presented to the layer above.This layer, which we will call the data communication protocol, has many available standards:V.34, V.32bis, V.32, V.22, etc. It is concerned mainly with establishing the modulation schemethat will give the highest baud rate (bps) on a given physical point-to-point connection.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 26 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0The more advanced protocols, such as V.34 for example, are smarter in that they are capable ofsimultaneously supporting different rates on the transmit and receive lines, and allow two modemsto exchange information to fine-tune their modulation parameters to optimize performance.4.5.1.2. Error ControlThe next layer is the Error Control Protocol Layer which implements one of a number of errorencoding and detection schemes on outgoing and incoming data frames respectively.By appending extra encoding bits to outgoing data packets, it allows the receiving modem usingthe same Error Control protocol to check whether the data has been corrupted during transmissionand demodulation by the lower layer. Similarly, it processes data frames received from the othermodem by using the appended encoding information to check for corrupted data.In addition to error coding and detection, this layer also takes care of the retransmission ofcorrupted packets to ensure that data delivered to the layer above it is error free.This layer is also provided in several standards: LAPM, MNP2 through 4, MNP10, etc.4.5.1.3. Data CompressionThe third layer is the Data Compression and Decompression Protocol. On outgoing data, thislayer effectively reduces (or compresses) the number of bits coming from the application layerabove it to a smaller number of bits without losing any information. The receiving modem thendecompresses this data and reconstructs it to its original form.Considering that the slowest link between two modems is always the wireline or cellular link, thisscheme reduces the amount of data flowing on that link and consequently increases the overalldata throughput.This layer is implemented by a variety of protocols, two of the most widely used ones beingV.42bis and MNP5.4.5.2. CSC vs. WirelineOlder modem protocols, such as V.32 and earlier, were developed and optimized for PSTNwireline networks. However, with the advent of cellular phone networks, and the need forwireless modems to operate within these networks, it became apparent that some adjustments hadto be made to the existing protocols to enable them to achieve performance similar to theirwireline counterparts.4.5.2.1. Enhanced Throughput Cellular (ETC)ETC was developed to bring cellular link performance up to wireline levels. Although it does notexist as a layer of its own, it interacts with various layers by adjusting some of their criticalparameters to compensate for network differences. It uses a number of techniques to improve therobustness of the data link.At the lowest layer, ETC adjusts the filter characteristics which modulate and demodulate thecarrier signal to compensate for differences between PSTN and cellular networks. At the ErrorCorrection layer, it enforces the use of small data packets so that retransmissions are short in theevent of data corruption, which will be more frequent in a wireless environment.Because ETC does not exist as a separate layer in the stack shown above, but instead makes use ofexisting protocols, it is possible for an ETC-enabled modem to communicate with a non-ETCmodem. Although it is preferred that both sides of the modem link support ETC, one of theattributes is that even if only one side supports ETC, significant benefits will be gained.Also, due to the nature of ETC making use of existing protocols, ETC imposes certain constraintson which protocols must be present at both ends for a connection to be established. The requiredprotocols are LAPM for Error Correction and V.42bis for Data Compression. Without these on
User’s Guide Modem Basics2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 27the receiving modem, the ETC modem will not be able to negotiate a connection and willdisconnect; irrespective of what other protocols the modems may have in common.ETC includes the following specific settings to improve immunity to the interference and noiseeffects mentioned earlier.• Small frame size• Do not allow non error-corrected links,• Wait for carrier 90 seconds• Lost carrier hang-up set to 10 secondsUse of small frame size does reduce direct throughput by 10%, but gives a more robustconnection.The policy of “start slow and train up” guarantees that the initial negotiation phase has morechance of success. Start-up speeds of 4800 bps and 9600 bps may be used. In addition if aconnection has not been established after 60 seconds, the modems will fall back to 1200 bps.Even with all this it is best to limit the maximum DCE speed.4.5.2.2. ModulationHigh speed modem protocols such as V.34 and V.32 use a technique known as QuadratureAmplitude Modulation (QAM). QAM operates by modulating a carrier sine wave signal in bothamplitude and phase. Each unique combination of amplitude and phase is known as a ‘symbol’and, therefore, each symbol represents a number. If there are 8 symbols (i.e. 8 uniquecombinations of amplitude and phase), then each symbol corresponds to a unique 3-bit number(0b000 to 0b111). On the receive side, the reverse process of demodulation is performed on thatmodulated carrier signal and the symbols or bits of information are retrieved.The key to achieving high speed on a modem is to use as many symbols as possible so that morebits can be encoded in them. The number of symbols that can be used is determined by thereceiving modem’s ability to resolve or distinguish between these various symbols.The more symbols there are, the more difficult it becomes for the modem to resolve them. This isbecause there is always a certain amount of noise on the link which causes the symbols to appear“fuzzy” on the receive side. The receiver can mistake one symbol for another. This is where theprotocol speed training algorithm comes into play. It is constantly measuring the amount of noiseon the line and based on that measurement will select a speed where it knows it will be able toresolve symbols reliably. In other words, the modem speed is a function of noise level.Note that “noise” here is not just noise in the traditional sense of the word, such as white noise,crackle, etc. It also includes distortions of the carrier signal caused by the various filtering stagespresent between the two modems, starting at the transmitting modem itself, all the way through thecellular network, the PSTN network, and finally the receiving modem.Because cellular networks optimize their system for voice, additional distortions are created whichresult in a higher noise figure and hence lower speed. ETC attempts to counteract these cellularnetwork distortions at both the transmit and receive ends.The smarter protocols such as V.34 implement adaptive filtering techniques where the filtercharacteristics are constantly adjusted to produce the lowest noise figure on both the transmit andreceive channels. V.32bis and lower speed protocols are not as sophisticated in that they will notadapt to any situation. This is why a V.34 modem will achieve higher speeds than a V.32 modemin a given environment.The SB320 modem is capable of establishing both ETC and non-ETC connections while in CSCdata mode. The fastest protocol supported by the SB320 is V.34. This means that the highestspeed theoretically achievable with this modem is 33600 bps. However, this occurs under idealconditions as found typically in a PSTN wireline environment. In a cellular network, experienceshows that it is quite rare for such speeds to be achieved. Instead, speeds of up to 19200 bps aremore typical, depending on the characteristics of both the cellular and the PSTN sections of thelink between two modems. Common connection rates are 9600 and 12800 bps.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 28 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0The table below shows the fall back speeds from V.34 to V.22 as supported by the SB320 modem.When ETC is enabled on the SB320 using the “super” AT command AT&F5 (described in theCSC Operations section), the maximum speed of the modem is limited to the DTE speed (set at19200 bps).ProtocolsSpeed (bps)V.34 19200 - 33600V.32bis 14400 - 12000V.32 9600 - 4800V.22bis 2400V22 1200 – 6004.5.2.3. Configuration IssuesUsing an SB320 in Wireline or CSC modes requires careful use of the AT commands that tune thevarious elements controlling modem handshaking process. Optimizing for Wireline and CSCmodes requires different settings. Where one mode is improved with a particular profile orsettings, the other can be impaired by the same profile.The specific sections on CSC and Wireline Operations (Chapters 6 and 7 respectively) give adescription of some of the key AT commands and S-registers associated with performance so thatthe user can modify the modem configuration from its default settings if necessary.
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 295. CDPD OperationThis section provides information on configuring and using the modem in CDPD mode if you arenot using Watcher and Windows Dial-up Networking for your connections. If you are using astandard Windows-based application then consult Section 3.3 Configuration using WirelessExpert.The introduction provides some background on CDPD communications in general.5.1. Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) IntroductionCDPD is a wireless radio frequency (RF) packet switched data communications service whichprovides two-way, fully digital, 19.2 kbps packet data networking services to mobile hosts. Alldata is exchanged with the network in the form of IP packets (TCP or UDP). It is simply awireless extension of traditional networks, providing the user with seamless access to dataapplications on these networks.Instead of using a dedicated cellular channel or telephone line to transmit data, CDPD devices,like the Sierra Wireless modem, are able to send data over cellular voice channels (the airlink)during the time periods when these radio channels are not used for standard cellular voicecommunications. When a channel becomes overloaded or used by a cellular voice call, the CDPDdevices “hop” to an unused or idle channel. Since this initial design implementation, many areasnow dedicate specific channels to only CDPD traffic.With multiple mobile devices sharing the cellular channel, data transfer rates can vary dependingon channel loading. Maximum data rates in the order of 1000 characters per second (10 kbps) areachievable only under lightly loaded ideal conditions.The cellular radio channel is only used when actual data is being sent or received and not when theuser application is idle. This contrasts with CSC mode which “owns” the connection channel aslong as the connection is open. CSC consumes the cellular resource even when the application isnot actively communicating.CDPD provides the following airlink support:• Compression of packet header and information fields transmitted over the wireless channel toreduce the amount of the airlink resource used.• Support of many users on the same cellular RF channel at the same time.• Error correction of data sent over the airlink.• Movement of the user from one cell site to another.• Delivery of properly sequenced data between user applications over the airlink.The CDPD network operates as a collection of CDPD service provider networks, with the serviceprovider networks being operated by cellular carriers who provide services such as:• Data connection to other networks• Application services• Network management• Network security• Accounting and billing5.1.1. SecurityWith data exchanged over a broadcast radio link, security is required to prevent eavesdropping.Airlink security is automatically provided by encrypting the data packets between the SB300Series modem and the service provider’s Mobile Data Intermediate System (where the radio signalis routed to a wireline public or private data network). If end-to-end data security is desired itmust be implemented or otherwise provided by the end-user.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 30 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.05.1.2. ArchitectureThe major cellular carriers and equipment manufacturers created a trade group called the WirelessData Forum (formerly the CDPD Forum), that develops and publishes the governing technicalspecifications for, and promotes the use of CDPD technology.The CDPD network provides a Connectionless Network Service (CLNS), one in which thenetwork routes each packet individually within the network based on the destination addresscarried in the packet and knowledge of the current network topology. It is often referred to as adatagram service. From the user’s point of view, only the destination address is known, since theCDPD network manages the packet routing required to reach the destination.5.1.3. Modem Registration5.1.3.1. The Network Entity Identifier (NEI)Each user on the CDPD network is identified by a distinct Network Entity Identifier (NEI) whichis used by the CDPD network to route messages to the user. This is like an account on thenetwork.Each NEI has a single home subdomain, where it is normally expected to be located within thenetwork. For example, a user’s home may be Las Vegas. Each modem may support more thanone NEI, each of which has a home subdomain, which may or may not be the same.For example, you may wish to have three NEIs for the same modem; with these NEIs havinghome subdomains in Las Vegas, New York, and Dallas (cities to which you travel regularly). Youmay want to use the NEI corresponding to the city you are currently in. Alternatively, you maywant to support two separate NEIs that have the same subdomain, such as one for business use andthe other for personal use.You may travel from a subdomain registered as the home area to a new serving area. The mobilitymanagement functions provided within the CDPD network handles the routing of packets forvisiting modems in a manner that is transparent to you. If you have pre-arranged with your serviceprovider, you may obtain service in a serving area supported by another service provider.The NEI used in the Sierra Wireless modem is the address assigned to the subscriber by the CDPDnetwork service provider. IP Addresses are 32-bit numbers that uniquely identify a given machine(or end system) running the TCP/IP protocol suite. You need to have a unique address before youcan link in with the rest of the networked world.The NEI for the Sierra Wireless modem may be installed using the WirelessExpert applicationprovided with the modem. Up to four unique NEIs can be supported in the Sierra Wirelessmodem. The CDPD service provider will have a unique Service Provider Network Identifier(SPNI). The CDPD service provider must supply the SPNI in numeric format to the CDPDsubscriber if you wish to restrict the modem to using that provider. The WirelessExpertapplication can be used to enter SPNIs into a table of accepted providers.5.1.3.2. Equipment Identifier (EID)One parameter that the CDPD service providers require from the CDPD subscriber registeringtheir modem is the Equipment Identifier (EID). The EID is unique to each modem. Essentially, itrepresents a unique electronic serial number for the subscriber device. No two devices in CDPDcan have the same EID.The format used in representing this 48-bit EID is hex bytes separated by hyphens (e.g., 00-A0-D5-00-00-7B). This is programmed into each Sierra Wireless modem at the factory, and thesubscriber can view the EID at any time using the Watcher or WirelessExpert applicationssupplied with the modem, or the AT command AT+WPEID.When a user initially signs up for service with a CDPD service provider, they will be required toprovide the service provider with the EID. This EID then becomes part of the CDPD Subscriber
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 31Directory Profile maintained for each subscriber on that CDPD network by the CDPD serviceprovider.5.1.3.3. AuthenticationEach NEI (network account) is mated to an EID (modem device). One NEI cannot be used withdifferent devices (EIDs). One device (EID) can have more than one associated NEI (account).One of the functions performed by the CDPD network is NEI authentication and verification.This service provides corroboration to ensure that the source of the data received from a user is asclaimed and not from a cloned CDPD subscriber device. In other words, only the authorizedowner of the NEI (the modem) is using the NEI. As a result of this authentication procedure,once a user has registered an NEI and a modem, they cannot use that NEI for datacommunication over the CDPD network on a new or different modem.If you replace or change modems, you must contact your service provider to reset your networkcredentials before you can use the new modem.5.1.4. CDPD Radio CoverageThe subscriber should obtain information from the service provider about what CDPD servicecoverage is available in the required areas.In most cases, the subscriber will not be aware of the quality of service provided over the CDPDairlink. Watcher does provide a feature that gives the user an indication of the airlink quality fortheir Sierra Wireless modem. This quality metric is based on the strength of the signal that isbeing received by the modem.Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) is a measure of the strength of the RF signal receivedby the modem. It is expressed either by an analogue thermometer or a logarithmic scale, indecibels relative to one milliWatt (dBm). A strong signal level has a less negative number (i.e., -50 dBm) and a weak signal level has a more negative number (i.e., -100 dBm).The CDPD service provider attempts to ensure that the signal level is fairly strong throughout thecoverage area (i.e., -80 dBm or stronger), but due to shielding of the signal by man-madestructures, the signal may be less than this desired value.Examples of locations where a signal could be weaker than desired is in underground parkinggarages, tunnels, buildings with all metal construction, old concrete buildings with large amountsof steel reinforcing bars, etc. In such cases, the CDPD subscriber may be able to get a strongersignal by locating the antenna near an opening or window. The effect of this repositioning on theRSSI can be observed in the signal strength window of the Watcher application.5.1.5. CDPD and the SB300 Series ModemsThe role of the Sierra Wireless modem in CDPD mode is:1. Accept commands and digital data from the end-user application equipment (DTE) throughthe serial connection.2. Assemble the data into packets.3. Encrypt the packets.4. Transmit the encrypted data packet to the network.5. Receive packet data from the network.6. Decrypt the packets.7. Disassemble the packets to extract the application data.8. Pass the serial data to the end-user’s application equipment.Note that the built-in encryption is for the airlink only (between the modem and the cellularservice base station). If end-to-end data security is desired it must be implemented or otherwiseprovided by the end-user.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 32 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0The extent to which the packet data is assembled and disassembled by the modem is determinedby setting the CDPD packet service mode to use SLIP, UDP, or TCP. Use of these protocols isdiscussed later in this section.5.2. Configuring NEI EntriesIn order for the modem to register on a CDPD network it must have a unique Network EntityIdentifier (NEI). This is an Internet Protocol (IP) address assigned by your CDPD network serviceprovider. Section 2.2.1 CDPD Registration contains information on activating this service.The service provider must assign you an NEI and channel side preference. They should alsoprovide their Service Provider Network Identifier (SPNI) number. To do this, the service providerwill need to know the Equipment Identifier (EID) of the modem which can be reported by themodem by issuing the +WPEID command.This information is recorded within the modem either by using the WirelessExpert configurationprogram or through direct entry using AT commands. To use WirelessExpert please consultSection 3.3.If you need to access web sites on the Internet, a Domain Name Server (DNS) address is alsorequired. The modem does not manage this layer of the Internet connection but WirelessExpertwill record the DNS address in the Windows networking facility for use at the application level.5.2.1. NEI TableThe modem can store up to four NEIs. One of these is the active NEI entry. The active entry isthe one on which most NEI related commands act. It can be different from the auto-register NEIor a currently registered NEI. The active NEI is indicated by an index pointer stored in register+WS197.Although it is recommended, it is not necessary to de-register from the CDPD network beforemaking changes to the table. If you alter the NEI entry that is currently registered, the modem willde-register the old value. If auto-register is enabled, the modem will then attempt to register thenew one.Note that CDPD credentials are associated to the table entries. You cannot re-arrange the NEIs inthe table without resetting credentials with your cellular service provider.5.2.1.1. NEI Configuration With AT CommandsTo store the NEI and related CDPD activation parameters using AT Commands enter thefollowing commands (the AT is omitted for brevity):1. +WPNEILIST to display the NEI table and indicate if one is registered. The auto-registerNEI is indicated with an asterisk (*) but the active NEI is not indicated.2. +WS197=n where n is the entry you wish to edit (1 through 4). This will make it the activeNEI.3. +WPNEI=ip where ip is the NEI address to assign. You do not need leading 0s in theindividual elements of the address. When you press <enter> the modem will respond with aprompt to confirm the change in the table. The old and new values are both shown.Press Y (case insensitive) to confirm the change, orPress N (or any key other than Y) to cancel the command.The modem will respond with OK if the NEI is in a valid IP form.4. +WPNEILIST to display the list and verify the new entry.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 335. +WS174=n where n indicates the channel side preference. Values are:0 – A side preferred,1 – B side preferred,2 – A side only,3 – B side only.NOTE that this preference is stored in a register not associated with a particular entry in theNEI table. The preference will be used for all NEI registrations.5.2.2. SPNI MatchingIf you want to restrict the modem to only using channels belonging to a particular list of serviceproviders you can enter a table of SPNI values. When the modem is finding a channel, it willcheck the SPNI of each channel against entries in this table. If there is no match, the modem willreject the channel and continue searching.If the table is empty, the SPNI matching feature is disabled.NOTE: If you set SPNI matching and also use +WPCHAN to assign a channel manually, theassigned channel will not lock if the SPNI fails to match. The modem will not be able to registerbecause it will not look for another channel if you have manually set a channel. The channel lockcan be checked using +WPRSSI.5.2.2.1. SPNI Table ConfigurationTo manage the use of SPNI matching using AT Commands enter the following commands (theAT is omitted for brevity):Read the Current SPNI Table1. +WPSPNI? Displays the SPNI Table. If the table is empty then SPNI matching is disabled.If there is at least one entry then SPNI matching is enabled.Disable SPNI Matching1. +WPSPNI= By not entering parameters, the table will be erased. An empty table disablesSPNI matching.Enable SPNI Matching1. +WPSPNI=n[,n[,…n]] where n is a SPNI value and multiple values are separated bycommas. The list of parameters provided will replace any previous table. You cannot appendentries to an existing table. You may enter up to 10 values in the table. By entering one ormore SPNI values, the SPNI matching feature is automatically enabled.5.3. CDPD Network RegistrationNote that network registration must be performed before communication across the network canbegin. Registering on the network is distinct from opening a session. Registration simplyconfirms a connection to the network as a whole and authenticates your modem’s credentials.Data Carrier Detect (DCD) is tied to sessions not network registration. A session does not beginuntil you originate a session (client) or auto-answer one (server).The modem can be set to register manually (on command) or automatically when it enters CDPDmode. The NEI address used for registration is determined differently for each method.The mode of registration is set in register +WS173 (Registration Mode). A value of 0 indicatesmanual registration and 1 indicates automatic. The modem is shipped with a value of 1 but themodem will always default to the last method used. Restoring settings with &F (factory) orZ (user profile) will NOT restore a setting to this register.For WirelessExpert to work, the modem must be set to automatic registration.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 34 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.05.3.1. Active and Auto-register NEI IndicesThe modem keeps two separate index entries to the NEI table. These indices have an intricateinter-relationship that you should understand.Auto-registration uses the index at +WS176 (Auto-register NEI Index). Manual registration andmanipulation of the NEI table are based on an index at +WS197 (Active NEI Index).When the modem registers an NEI, the index of the NEI used (manually or automatically) will bestored in the Auto-register NEI Index (+WS176). This means that auto-registration will alwaysuse the last registered NEI unless the Auto-register NEI Index is changed while the modem is de-registered in manual (+WS173=0) mode.Changing the setting in the Auto-register NEI Index while the modem is registered causes themodem to de-register the old NEI address. This happens in both manual and auto-register modes.If the modem is set to auto-register (+WS173=1) then the modem will go on to attempt to registerthe new NEI.Register +WS197 (Active NEI Index) is quite independent of any currently registered NEI andcan be changed freely. This allows access to other table entries while registered without affectingthe registration status.The manual registration command (+WPREG) will use the Active NEI Index (+WS197) as theaddress to register. It will also store the value of the Active NEI Index (+WS197) into the Auto-register NEI Index (+WS176) so that it becomes the default address for future auto-registration.This copying of the index takes place even if the manual registration fails.In summary, the Auto-register NEI Index value will follow the Active NEI Index value if there isan attempt to register manually. The Active NEI Index can change freely and is not influenced bychanges in the Auto-register NEI Index.5.3.2. Manual RegistrationWhen the modem is set for manual registration (+WS173=0) it will not attempt to locate a CDPDchannel until commanded to register (+WPREG) or the command to set a channel (+WPCHAN)is set to 0 (automatic selection). You may select a channel first if desired. If you do not assign achannel, or if you force automatic channel selection by setting +WPCHAN=0, the modem willscan for one when the registration command is issued.5.3.2.1. Select a ChannelIf you assign a channel, the modem will use that channel for registration attempts. If registrationfails on the assigned channel NO automatic attempts are made to locate another channel.NOTE: If you set SPNI matching and also use +WPCHAN to assign a channel manually, theassigned channel will not lock if the SPNI fails to match. The modem will not be able to registerbecause it will not look for another channel if you have manually set a channel. The channel lockcan be checked using +WPRSSI.Assign a ChannelTo assign a channel for use by the modem issue the AT command +WPCHAN=n where n is thechannel number to assign. The modem will go to that channel. Subsequent use of +WPRSSI willreport the strength of signal and if the channel has been acquired.Changing the channel assignment while the modem is registered will not change the registrationstatus. The modem may lose connectivity if the new channel does not present sufficient signal.Where the cellular carrier forces CDPD channel hopping the modem will follow the hopsregardless of the user assigned channel.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 35Auto-locate a ChannelTo have the modem locate a channel, issue the AT command +WPCHAN=0. The modem willthen scan for a channel when requested to register (or auto-register). RSSI requests will reflect thestatus of the channel found. The channel number will also be available by querying register+WS200 (Current Channel Number).5.3.2.2. Register ManuallyTo register an NEI manually:1. +WS197=n where n is the index to the NEI you wish to register.2. +WPREG to register the NEI. If the NEI is already currently registered the modem takes noaction and returns the registration result code. Otherwise, the modem will:• De-register any currently registered NEI• Locate a channel if necessary• Attempt to register the NEI and authenticate credentialsThe modem will terminate the process on one of three conditions:• Success – The modem will report the Registered result code.• Failure – The CDPD network failed to register the NEI for reasons given in the result code(i.e. INSUFFICIENT_CREDENTIALS).• Time-out – The register +WS198 (Registration Wait Time) allows settings from 1 to 255seconds (default 30) for the registration process. If this time elapses without successfulregistration the modem will return the Timeout Expired result code.5.3.3. Automatic RegistrationThe modem can be set to register the NEI indexed by +WS176 (Auto-register NEI Index)automatically. Register +WS173 (Registration Mode) controls this feature. When this register isset to 1 the modem will immediately attempt to register and will subsequently attempt to registerautomatically on entry to CDPD mode (startup on CDPD only modems).Automatic registration will retry indefinitely should attempts fail.Setting the Registration Mode to 0 will de-register the current NEI if it successfully auto-registered earlier.5.3.4. De-registrationThe modem will de-register on any of several events.If the modem is in manual registration mode it will de-register if:• The De-register command (+WPDEREG) is issued for the registered NEI. Note that thiscommand will reference the NEI indexed by register +WS197 (Active NEI Index). It ispossible that this register has been changed (by command) after an NEI was registered and nolonger points to the registered entry; in which case, the registered NEI remains registered andno action is taken by the modem. The Active NEI Index must point to the registered addressfor this command to work.• The registered NEI is overwritten with a new value using +WPNEI=.If the modem is in automatic registration mode it will de-register if:• The registration method is changed to manual (+WS173=0).• The value of the Auto-register NEI Index (+WS176) is changed.• The registered NEI is overwritten with a new value using +WPNEI=.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 36 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.05.4. Monitoring the Network ConnectionPrior to finding a channel, many query items will return 0. Once locked onto a CDPD channel, themodem can provide several pieces of information about the connection. Additional information isavailable regarding the registration of the modem.5.4.1. Radio Signal Monitors5.4.1.1. Signal StrengthThere are two primary monitors of signal strength.A “percentage” value can be read from register +WS50 (Normalized Signal Strength). It reports avalue from 0 to 100 where 0 is imperceptible and 100 is full signal.The Receive Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) is more informative. It is read with the RSSI andChannel State command (+WPRSSI). It reports:• Signal strength in dBm (-113 to -30),• State of the channel (1 - Scanning, 3 - Acquired, 4 - Sleeping),• Registration Status (0 no, 1 yes)• Channel number (0 if scanning)Note that the registration status reported here is that of the Active NEI Index (+WS197) whichmay point to a NEI other than one that is in fact registered. Consult register +WS56 to check theregistration status of the modem.5.4.1.2. Current ChannelThe channel number is available from register +WS200. A value of 0 indicates the modem hasnot acquired a channel.5.4.1.3. SPNI of the Connected CarrierWhen the modem has locked onto a channel (whether registered or not) the Service ProviderNetwork Identifier (SPNI) for that channel can be read with the command +WCID.5.4.1.4. Cell NumberAlthough not important in most circumstances, the number of the current CDPD base station isavailable from register +WS210.5.4.2. Registration StatusThe status of the modem’s registration can be read at register +WS56 (Network RegistrationStatus). A value of 1 indicates the modem is registered. A value of 0 indicates that it is notregistered.5.4.2.1. Registration ModeThe current setting of auto-registration is found in register +WS173. A value of 1 indicatesautomatic registration is enabled, 0 indicates manual registration mode.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 375.5. Sleep ModeCDPD provides a facility to allow modems to go to “sleep” when they do not have activecommunications. This allows the modems to shut down hardware to reduce power consumption.When the modem is waiting for data from either the host or network end, it does not need to keepall hardware systems running. The CDPD network sends a periodic message to registered IPaddresses to advise if there is pending traffic on the network for them. The modem can beprogrammed to shut down the receiver (go to sleep) between these messages, and wake up at thedefined intervals to check if the network has traffic. If there is no pending traffic, then the receivercan go back to sleep until the next scheduled notification message.The SB300 Series modems can use this feature and have added an additional feature called “logicsleep” to further reduce power consumption.5.5.1. CDPD SleepThis is what is meant by the general term “sleep” mode. It is controlled by setting register+WS175 (CDPD Sleep Idle Time).Setting the register to 0 (zero) will disable sleep mode. The modem will keep the receiver activefor immediate handling of any incoming traffic from the network.Sleep is enabled by setting the register to the time in seconds, from 10 to 3600 (1 hour), duringwhich the modem must have no traffic. Provided there is no traffic to or from the network duringthat interval, the modem will begin using CDPD sleep.Once sleep mode is engaged, the modem logic will turn off the radio receiver. It will turn on thereceiver at the intervals prescribed to check for traffic. If there is traffic, the modem will then dealwith it.The disadvantage to sleep mode is that traffic from the network will have to wait up to amaximum of one minute for the next notification cycle before the modem can receive it. This canslow down response in some time critical applications.While sleeping, the modem logic is ready to receive data from the host at any time. The modemwill immediately wake up for host generated traffic.5.5.2. Logic SleepIn addition to switching off the radio for CDPD sleep, the modem can be placed in a logic sleepmode. This further reduces the power consumption of the modem. Logic sleep will not engageunless CDPD sleep is already engaged.Logic sleep will automatically engage (if it is enabled) when the modem is inactive. This canengage after executing an AT command and before the next command is issued. The modem canalso go into logic sleep while in auto-answer mode. The modem will wake-up periodically as partof the CDPD sleep operation to check the network for messages. Incoming data amounts to aRING when auto-answer is enabled, so the modem will be awake to receive messages.This feature is controlled with register S31 (Logic Sleep). Setting the register to 0 (zero) willdisable logic sleep. Setting it to 1 will enable normal logic sleep. In this condition the modemwill reduce power until the host sends a command or CDPD sleep operation requires activity. Itwill wake as soon as a character arrives from the host, or automatically as needed to make periodicnetwork checks for traffic.Setting the Logic Sleep register to 2 will enable deep-sleep. This will cause the modem to shutdown even more hardware, conserving even more power. The disadvantage to this is that themodem will lose the first incoming character from the host (DTE). In fact, the modem will take80 milliseconds, from the start of the first incoming character, to wake up. The host must be
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 38 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0aware of both the wake-up delay and that the first character to the modem was lost. Automaticwake-ups to check the network will still occur so no incoming network traffic is lost.5.6. Friends OnlyFriends Only is a feature available when either the UDP or TCP PAD is enabled in a serversession, but is not used with the SLIP protocol.Friends Only permits reception of packets to be restricted (for security reasons) to a predefinedgroup of IP addresses (friends). Friends Only mode is controlled by entering IP addresses in aFriend Only table. If the table is not empty, the feature is enabled and the comparison of packetsource addresses against the list stored in the modem will be made.This subject is discussed in further detail in both the UDP and TCP packet services sectionsbelow.5.7. Packet ServicesSB300 Series modems support three connection protocols in CDPD:• SLIP (PPP is coming in a future firmware release)• UDP PAD• TCP PADThe modem’s packet service is set in register +WS45 (Packet Service). This setting can be madebefore or after registration on the network. It should not be changed once the modem starts asession (is on-line). If a change to packet service is required, the user must close the currentsession (go off-line), change the setting, and then establish a new session.Use of each of the services is described in sub-sections below. For more on protocols generallysee Section 4.4 above.5.7.1. Serial Line Interface Protocol (SLIP)SLIP is one method for encapsulating packet data over dedicated and/or switched serial lines. It isa useful and reliable way to allow mixes of hosts and routers to communicate with one another invarious combinations.When operating in SLIP mode, the modem’s internal Packet Assembly / Disassembly (PAD)services are bypassed and the modem acts as a router passing data between the host’s protocolstack, and the CDPD network. All protocol headers are the responsibility of the host as is theSLIP framing to the packets. The modem will parse the SLIP frame character to distinguishpackets and to identify the data state escape sequence.This protocol is useful if the host application must have multiple sessions active concurrently. Anexample would be a police car, which may need simultaneous connections to a local dispatcher, astate motor vehicle bureau, and a federal database.Note that the SLIP protocol does NOT support auto-answer. If the modem was in auto-answer inanother packet service, it will be turned off (S0=0) when SLIP is selected. Attempts to set theauto-answer register (S0) to a value other than 0 will return the ERROR result code.5.7.1.1. Opening a SLIP Client SessionA detailed discussion of a SLIP session follows the outline of steps to open a SLIP Client Session.(AT is omitted for brevity):1. +WS46=4 to place the modem in CDPD mode (only required on the SB320).2. +WS45=3 to select SLIP service.3. Optionally assign a channel with +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel to use.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 394. Optionally verify the channel acquisition with +WPRSSI looking for the second value in thereturn string to be 3.If the modem is using auto-registration (+WS173=1) skip to step 7.5. +WS197=n where n is the index (1-4) of the NEI to register, to select the NEI6. +WPREG to register on the CDPD network. The modem will reply as noted in the sectionabove on manual registration.7. +WS56? to query the registration status. Repeat this command until it returns a value of1 (registered) or until the host chooses to timeout, failing the connection.8. O to start the session. The modem will reply with CONNECT at which point you are in datastate.The modem is now ready to pass host packets to the network. Any incoming packets, from anyoriginator, will be passed to the host. This allows the host to send and receive packets to multipledestinations asynchronously provided the host can manage multiple socket connections.Detailed DiscussionThe first two steps simply place the modem in CDPD SLIP mode. The modem’s session state isset in register +WS45 (Packet Service) by step 2. Setting this value to 3 will place the modem inSLIP mode. This can be done before or after registration on the network so auto-registration canoccur before this step.The registration process can be more closely controlled with steps 3 through 6. Steps 3 and 4 canbe used in auto-register as well as manual register settings.To send data over the network in SLIP mode the user must enter a data state connection to thenetwork. There is no explicit destination in SLIP mode so the Dial command is not supported.You are better advised to verify the modem has registered and simply go on-line. Registration isverified with a response of 1 to the query of register +WS56.If there are problems with registration, the host should manage a timeout on this process.Continue to repeat the +WS56? query until you get a response of 1 (registered) or the host timerexpires.The O command will switch the modem to data state regardless of the registration condition. Thisshould only be used if you know the modem has successfully registered on the CDPD network.Once in data state, the modem acts as a pipe through which data passes. All PAD and IP protocolstacks as well as SLIP framing must be implemented on the host (DTE) system. Windows Dial-upNetworking can provide these services.TransmittingData packets received from the host (DTE) are forwarded to the network in 128 byte segments.They can be buffered on the modem up to 14 segments (1792 bytes). Beyond this, there is localhardware flow control (RTS/CTS) with the host to prevent overflow.ReceivingIncoming data from the network is buffered (up to 14 x 128 bytes) and is passed to the host as itarrives. If the modem has been placed in command state but is still in on-line condition, incomingdata will be buffered. There is an automatic remote flow control between the modem and thenetwork to prevent overflow.Escaping Data StateTo escape data state in SLIP mode, the host can issue the escape sequence <0xC0>+++<0xC0>to the modem. The hexadecimal value 0xC0 is the SLIP frame character. This means the modemwill be sent a frame containing nothing but the escape code (+++). This is parsed by the modemas an escape and it will not forward the packet to the network.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 40 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0The modem will enter command state but remain registered and in on-line condition (the session iskept open). If data arrives at the modem while the session is open and the modem is in commandstate, the data is buffered as described above.An alternative to the escape sequence is to pre-set the DTR Options (&D) to either 1 or 2 and thenswitch DTR off to escape data state. If the option is set to 1 (&D1), the modem will entercommand state the same as if the escape sequence was issued; it will remain registered with thecurrent session still open. If the DTR Option is 2 (&D2) then the modem will close the session,de-register, and return to command state. Note that if auto-registration is enabled, the modem willswitch off DCD (closing the current session) but will remain registered.If the session has been kept open, the host can re-enter data state by issuing the On-line command(O). The modem will respond with CONNECT and data state is restored.5.7.1.2. Closing a SLIP SessionTo end a SLIP session, escape data state as described above. If the &D2 DTR option is used thenthe session is closed.If the escape sequence or the &D1 DTR option is used then you must hang-up with either H0 orH1 to close the session. Both of these will close the current session. If the modem is set tomanual registration, it will also be de-registered by both of these commands.H1 will force de-registration of the modem even if auto-registration is enabled. The modem willremain de-registered. Although auto-registration remains enabled, the modem will not resumeauto-registration until the register is reset (+WS173=1) or the modem itself re-enters CDPD mode(a modem reset or power cycle on CDPD-only modems).5.7.2. User Datagram Protocol (UDP)UDP is the most basic transport protocol provided by the modem. It is a thin protocol, addingonly a port specification to the underlying Internet Protocol (IP). It has the same features as IP,that is a best effort, connectionless delivery service, with the chief benefit being minimumoverhead.UDP is not considered reliable because packet delivery is not guaranteed. Packets can be lost,duplicated, delayed, or delivered out of sequence. These conditions are not detected, and thesender or receiver is not informed.UDP is connectionless because sender and receiver are never logically connected. If the intendedreceiver is not active and available the message is lost. It is a best effort delivery, because the IPsoftware makes an earnest attempt to deliver the packets, failing only if system resources areoverloaded or the underlying networks fail.Application programs using UDP must accept full responsibility for handling the problems ofreliability, including message loss, duplication, delay, out-of-order delivery, and loss ofconnectivity.These problems are often treated casually by programmers. Testing done when using highlyreliable, low delay local networks may not expose potential failures. This explains why manyapplications that use UDP work well in a local environment but often fail in dramatic ways on amore global network.5.7.2.1. Opening a UDP Client SessionClient sessions are those in which your modem initiates a conversation with a server.A detailed discussion of this type of session follows the outline of steps to open a UDP ClientSession. (AT is omitted for brevity):1. +WS46=4 to place the modem in CDPD mode (only required on the SB320).2. +WS45=0 to select UDP packet service.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 413. Optionally assign a channel with +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel to use.4. Optionally verify the channel acquisition with +WPRSSI looking for the second value in thereturn string to be 3.If the modem is using auto-registration (+WS173=1) skip to step 7.5. +WS197=n where n is the index (1-4) of the NEI to register, to select the NEI6. +WPREG to register on the CDPD network. The modem will reply as noted in the sectionabove on manual registration.7. +WS56? to query the registration status. Repeat this command until it returns a value of1 (registered) or until the host chooses to timeout, failing the connection.8. +WS212=<port> where <port> is the port number (1025-4999) that the modem will becalling on and listening to. The modem will only accept packets addressed to this port. Thefactory default is 2100.9. D<dest> where <dest> is the destination IP and port number to send your data to. See theAT Command Reference for details on this command. The modem will reply withCONNECT at which point you are in data state.The modem is now ready to accept host data for packet assembly and transmission to the network.Any incoming packets, from an originator other than the <dest> will be ignored. Incomingpackets from the <dest> address will be passed to the host. This allows the host to exchange datawith a specific station.Detailed DiscussionThe first two steps simply place the modem in CDPD UDP mode. The modem’s packet service isset in register +WS45 (Packet Service) by step 2. Setting this value to 0 will enable the modem’sUDP stack. This can be done before or after registration on the network so auto-registration canoccur before this step.The registration process can be more closely controlled with steps 3 through 6. Steps 3 and 4 canbe used in auto-register as well as manual register settings.To send data over the network in a UDP client session the user must enter a data state connectionto the network with a specific IP address and port number. The On-line command (O) can be usedwith the modem using the default IP address and port. Unfortunately, there is no way for you toverify what this destination is, so we recommend you issue the dial command with an explicitdestination each time you start a client session.The listening port (+WS212) must be set to the desired port number to communicate over. Boththe client and server must share this port number.The IP of the destination can be any valid IP. Client sessions do not apply the Friends Onlyrestrictions. If the Dial command is given bad syntax including an invalid destination IP or portnumber, then it will return the ERROR result code.The Dial command can handle the network registration process using the NEI indexed by the auto-register index or the one specified with the N=v dial modifier. See the AT Command Referencefor details. This means steps 3 through 6 can be omitted if desired.The response to the Dial command will depend on the setting of register +WS179 (RegistrationWait Status). If the setting is 0 (the default) then the CONNECT code is returned regardless of thesuccess or failure of the modem to register. If the modem was not registered then the dialcommand must perform the task. The UPD PAD is ready and you may start assembling data intoa packet while the registration process proceeds in parallel. The modem will buffer the data untilthe modem registers. A failure to register is NOT reported to the host, and the packet can be lost.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 42 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0If the Registration Wait Status register is set to 1, then the modem will not respond to the dialcommand until the registration process terminates. In this case, the response can be one of thefollowing:CONNECT The modem must have successfully registered and you cancommunicate with the network.NO CARRIER The modem failed to register with the network within the time allowedby +WS198.ERROR An invalid IP or port number was specified or there was some othererror in the Dial command syntax.It is important to understand that CONNECT does not mean that you have established acommunication link with the destination. UDP is “connectionless”, meaning that you only have aconnection to the network. Data packets are not guaranteed to reach their destination using UDP.TransmittingOnce in data state, the modem uses its PAD management services to assemble the data comingfrom the host into packets. See Section 5.8 for a discussion of these services.ReceivingWhen the connection is established actively (by a D (Dial) or O (On-line) command), the modemtreats the connection as a client session. Incoming packets are accepted from the destinationaddress specified in the Dial command (or defaulted in the On-line command) regardless ofwhether or not it is contained in the Friends list.Any packets arriving from an IP other than that in the Dial command are ignored.If the modem has been placed in command state but is still in on-line condition, incoming datawill be buffered. There is an automatic remote flow control between the modem and the networkto prevent overflow.5.7.2.2. Escaping Data StateThere are two methods to escape data state in UDP packet service. The host can issue the PADTime Independent Escape Sequence (TIES) if it is enabled, or the DTR Option can be used if it isenabled.TIESThis method is enabled with register +WS60=1 (the default). It is disabled with a setting of 0(zero).When enabled, the host can send AT+++ as a packet. The “AT” portion must be in uppercase.See Section 5.8 for details on packet management and notes regarding the PAD Inter-CharacterTimer.When the TIES is received by the modem, it will enter command state but remain registered and inon-line condition (the session is kept open). If data arrives at the modem while the session is openand the modem is in command state, the data is buffered as described above. See below forinstructions on closing the session.If the session has been kept open, the host can re-enter data state by issuing the On-line command(O). The modem will respond with CONNECT and data state is restored.DTR OptionAn alternative to TIES is to pre-set the DTR Options (&D) to either 1 or 2 and then switch DTRoff to escape data state. If the option is set to 1 (&D1), the modem will enter command state andremain registered with the current session still open. If the DTR Option is 2 (&D2) then themodem will close the session, de-register, and return to command state. Note that if auto-
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 43registration is enabled, the modem will switch off DCD (closing the current session) but willremain registered.If the session has been kept open, the host can re-enter data state by issuing the On-line command(O). The modem will respond with CONNECT and data state is restored.5.7.2.3. Closing a UDP SessionTo end a UDP session, escape data state as described above. If the &D2 DTR option is used thenthe session is closed.If TIES or the &D1 DTR option is used then you must hang-up with either ATH0 or ATH1 toclose the session. Both of options of the Hook Control (H) command will close the currentsession. If the modem is set to manual registration, it will also be de-registered by both of theseoptions.ATH1 will force de-registration of the modem even if auto-registration is enabled. The modemwill remain de-registered. Although auto-registration remains enabled, the modem will notresume auto-registration until the register is reset (+WS173=1) or the modem itself re-entersCDPD mode (a modem reset or power cycle on CDPD-only modems).NOTE: There is a PAD Inactivity Timeout in register S30 that can also close a session. Thistimer is disabled by default (set to 0) but can be set to a value from 1 to 20 minutes to prevent themodem from holding an idle session open. If this mechanism closes the session the modem willsend the message “OK” to the host and return to command state. The Carrier Detect (DCD) signalwill also go inactive indicating the session is closed.5.7.2.4. Opening a UDP Server SessionServer sessions are those in which your modem answers a “call” from another system.A detailed discussion of this type of session follows the outline of steps to open a UDP ServerSession. (AT is omitted for brevity):1. +WS46=4 to place the modem in CDPD mode (only required on the SB320).2. +WS45=0 to select UDP packet service.3. Optionally assign a channel with +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel to use.4. Optionally verify the channel acquisition with +WPRSSI looking for the second value in thereturn string to be 3.If the modem is using auto-registration (+WS173=1) skip to step 7.5. +WS197=n where n is the index (1-4) of the NEI to register, to select the NEI6. +WPREG to register on the CDPD network. The modem will reply as noted in the sectionabove on manual registration.7. +WS56? to query the registration status. Repeat this command until it returns a value of1 (registered) or until the host chooses to timeout, failing the connection.8. +WS212=<port> where <port> is the port number (1025-4999) that the modem will listento. The modem will only accept packets addressed to this port. The factory default is 2100.9. S0=1 sets the modem into auto-answer mode. The modem will remain in command stateuntil a message is received from the network.The session is not actually opened until the first acceptable packet is received.In server sessions the modem will check all incoming packets for the source IP address. If FriendsOnly is enabled, the originator’s IP address is checked against entries in the Friends List. If nomatch is found the packet is discarded. If there is a match, or the Friends List is empty, themodem will also verify that the destination port is matched to the listening port set in register+WS212. If so, the session is opened (if necessary) and the packet is passed to the host (DTE).
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 44 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0When a packet does arrive for the host, the modem will first send the messages “RING” and“CONNECT <ip>” (where <ip> is the address of the calling station) to the host to indicate thetransition from command state into data state. The CONNECT message provides a “caller ID”.The incoming packet is then presented to the host and the modem is ready to accept host reply datafor packet assembly and transmission to the network.Detailed DiscussionThe first two steps simply place the modem in CDPD UDP mode. The modem’s packet service isset in register +WS45 (Packet Service) by step 2. Setting this value to 0 will enable the modem’sUDP stack. This can be done before or after registration on the network so auto-registration canoccur before this step.The registration process can be more closely controlled with steps 3 through 6. Steps 3 and 4 canbe used in auto-register as well as manual register settings.The listening port (+WS212) must be set to the desired port number to communicate over. Boththe client and server must share this port number.In a server session, the host does not originate transmissions, but rather waits for service requestsfrom a calling client. The modem does not enter data state until the first packet is received.ReceivingIncoming packets are accepted from the network only if the IP of the sender is on the Friends Listor the list is empty (Friends Only disabled) and the destination port matches the listening port setin register +WS212. Any packets arriving from an IP other than those accepted are ignored.When a packet arrives, the IP address and port of the sender is stored as the address to sendpackets to. See Transmitting for additional details and issues on this.If the modem has been placed in command state but is still in on-line condition, incoming datawill be buffered. There is an automatic remote flow control between the modem and the networkto prevent overflow.TransmittingOnce in data state, the modem uses its PAD management services to assemble the data comingfrom the host into packets. See Section 5.8 for a discussion of these services.NOTE – Reply Addressing in UDP Server SessionsThe source address (IP address and port number) of the last accepted packet is savedin a temporary variable for use as the current destination address for all packets beingsent by the modem during the current server session.This can lead to some conflict on busy systems. If a packet arrives from source A andis currently being serviced by the host when a packet arrives from source B, a replyintended for A will be sent to B.A future firmware revision will implement a BUSY response which will avoid thisproblem. For now, this situation cannot be avoided in UDP server sessions. The onlyremedy is to use the TCP PAD to establish distinct point-to-point communication links.The host will only know the identity of the calling station from the “caller ID” provided in theCONNECT message. Once in data state the incoming packets could be from any acceptablestation (based on Friends Only activation) and matching the listening port.The normal behaviour would have the server receive a message, issue a reply, and then close thesession. Auto-answer will be re-enabled so the client can send another packet if needed whichwill appear to the host as a new session with “caller ID”.An alternative would have all clients use an agreed protocol in which the client includes stationidentification data within the packet. It is the user’s responsibility to supply this level of protocol.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 455.7.2.5. Escaping Data StateEscaping a UDP server session is handled exactly the same way as a client session. SeeSection 5.7.2.2 above for details.5.7.2.6. Closing a UDP Server SessionClosing a server session is handled exactly the same way as a client session. See Section 5.7.2.3above for details.Provided the modem is set to auto-register and H1 is not used to close the session, the modem isready for the next UDP server session without further configuration. Auto-answer will remainenabled and the modem registered on the network.To disable auto-answer, you must set register S0=0. This will prevent the modem from startingany further server sessions.5.7.2.7. UDP Broadcast and MulticastThese services are not yet supported by the SB300 Series modems but are planned for futurefirmware upgrades.Broadcast and multicast are CDPD functions that support sending the same data to a large groupof IP Addresses with a single transmission to the CDPD network. This capability is implementedthrough Mobile Data Intermediate System (MDIS) software. Check with your carrier to determineif these capabilities are offered before planning to use it as part of your application.Broadcast and multicast transmissions are point-to-multi-point and provide a one-way UDPconnectionless service. The operational considerations are:• Protocol restrictions prevent broadcast or multicast messages from being encrypted.• Broadcast or multicast data packets will not be received by a SB300 Series modem with anactive TCP PAD session.• If a UDP PAD session is active the broadcast and multicast messages will be interspersedwith the application data packets and must be separated by the application.• In the case of SLIP, the disposition of the broadcast and multicast messages is a function ofthe support provided by the software stack and end-user applications (one must be UDP)operating on the Mobile Application Subsystem (MAS). If a UDP session is not active, themessages will be lost.BroadcastThe Broadcast function is used on a geographic coverage basis. To support this function theMDIS is set up with a Broadcast NEI that includes a list of the Mobile Data Base Stations(MDBSs) in the desired broadcast area in its definition. There can be multiple broadcast areaswithin the coverage area of a single MDIS. A message is transmitted to a Broadcast NEI at theMDIS that replicates the message, puts a special broadcast header on it, and sends it to the cellsindicated by the broadcast list.For most applications broadcast is not appropriate, because broadcast messages are sent to all theCDPD modems in the covered geography. It is more useful to be able to specify that messagesonly go to all, or a subset of the IP Addresses associated with a specific customer; a capabilityoffered by multicast.MulticastMulticast is set up similarly to broadcast, except that the MDIS is set up with a Multicast NEI anda list of the terminals that belong to that specific group rather than a list of cells, as used by thebroadcast function. The message to be multicast is sent to the Multicast NEI at the MDIS, whichreplicates the message and sends individual messages to the terminals indicated in its multicastgroup list.A terminal can be a member of any number of multicast groups, however it can only be active inone at any given time. A terminal wishing to receive multicast messages indicates its readiness by
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 46 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0registering a Multicast NEI and by being ready to receive UDP datagrams. The latter can beaccomplished by having the UDP Server function set to active, or if in SLIP mode, by having aUDP application set to ready. In all of the preceding cases the MAS is assumed to be ready toprocess any incoming multicast datagrams.Contact the service provider for information on the availability and use of multicast service inyour area.5.7.3. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is an advanced transmission protocol that adds substantialfunctionality to the underlying Internet Protocol it is built on. Because of this structure it is oftenreferred to as TCP/IP. The advantage of TCP is reliability of data transmission; achieved by usingpositive acknowledgements with retransmission if required. The main disadvantage is theoverhead needed to provide this reliability under various conditions.Due to the positive acknowledgements used in TCP, it is not recommended that sleep modes beenabled in the modem. If the modem goes to sleep, the possible delays in sending and picking upacknowledgements can result in excessive re-transmissions and even lost connections.Unlike UDP, TCP offers both reliable and connected data transmission service. Lost, delayed,duplicated, or out of sequence packets are detected and automatically corrected. A logical point-to-point connection is established and maintained throughout the communications session. Itrequires very little other than session establishment, sending data over the serial port, and sessiontermination to get a basic application operational.The price for this reliability is the number of extra data packets used and the time required toprocess them. Both need to be considered when selecting an application protocol.5.7.3.1. Configuring a TCP Client SessionClient sessions are those in which your modem initiates a conversation with a server.A detailed discussion of this type of session follows the outline of steps to open a TCP ClientSession. (AT is omitted for brevity):1. +WS46=4 to place the modem in CDPD mode (only required on the SB320).2. +S31=0 to disable logic sleep.3. +WS175=0 to disable CDPD sleep.4. +WS45=1 to select TCP packet service.5. Optionally assign a channel with +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel to use.6. Optionally verify the channel acquisition with +WPRSSI looking for the second value in thereturn string to be 3.If the modem is using auto-registration (+WS173=1) skip to step 9.7. +WS197=n where n is the index (1-4) of the NEI to register, to select the NEI8. +WPREG to register on the CDPD network. The modem will reply as noted in the sectionabove on manual registration.9. +WS56? to query the registration status. Repeat this command until it returns a value of1 (registered) or until the host chooses to timeout, failing the connection.10. +WS212=<port> where <port> is the port number (1025-4999) that the modem will becalling on and listening to. The modem will only accept packets addressed to this port. Thefactory default is 2100.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 4711. D<dest> where <dest> is the destination IP and port number to send your data to. See theAT Command Reference for details on this command. The modem will reply withCONNECT at which point you are in data state.The modem is now ready to accept host data for packet assembly and transmission to the network.Any incoming packets, from an originator other than the <dest> will be ignored. Incomingpackets from the <dest> address will be passed to the host. This allows the host to exchange datain a point-to-point connection on a specified port with a specific station.Detailed DiscussionThe first four steps simply place the modem in CDPD TCP mode. The modem’s sleep featuresare disabled to prevent delays in TCP acknowledgements, which would cause excessive re-transmissions and possibly loss of connection. The modem’s packet service is set in register+WS45 (Packet Service) by step 4. Setting this value to 1 will enable the modem’s TCP stack.This can be done before or after registration on the network so auto-registration can occur beforethis step.The registration process can be more closely controlled with steps 5 through 8. Steps 5 and 6 canbe used in auto-register as well as manual register settings.To send data over the network in a TCP client session the user must enter a data state connectionto the network with a specific IP address and port number.The On-line command (O) can only be used after a session has started. The Dial command mustbe used to establish the TCP point-to-point connection. Once established, the host can escape datastate and then use this command to return to data state with the point-to-point connection stillintact.The listening port (+WS212) must be set to the desired port number to communicate over. Boththe client and server must share this port number.The IP of the destination can be any valid IP. Client sessions do not apply the Friends Onlyrestrictions. If the Dial command is given bad syntax including an invalid destination IP or portnumber, then it will return the ERROR result code.The Dial command can handle the network registration process using the NEI indexed by the auto-register index or the one specified with the N=v dial modifier. See the AT Command Referencefor details. This means steps 3 through 6 can be omitted if desired.Note that two timers are used for the connection process. +WS198 (Registration Wait Time) isused to timeout the network registration process. The default is 30 seconds. A second timer at S7(TCP PAD Timeout) is used to time the TCP connection handshake. This timer defaults to 30seconds as well. The TCP PAD Timeout starts when the Dial command is issued. If modem wasnot already registered, then network registration will consume time from this timer as well. Inother words, the TCP PAD Timeout can run concurrently with the Registration Wait Timer.The response to the Dial command when TCP is enabled does not depend on the setting of register+WS179 (Registration Wait Status). The CONNECT code is only returned on the successfulnetwork registration and TCP negotiation with the destination. A failure to register or negotiateTCP is reported to the host by either a NO CARRIER or NO ANSWER result code. The responsecan be one of the following:CONNECT The modem has successfully registered and established the TCPconnection. You can now communicate with your destination.NO CARRIER The modem failed to register with the network within the time allowedby +WS198.NO ANSWER The modem could register with the network but could not negotiate theTCP handshake with your destination within the time allowed byregister S7.ERROR An invalid IP or port number was specified or there was some othererror in the Dial command syntax.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 48 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0PAD ERROR An internal modem error has occurred in the TCP stack. The modemwill have to be reset.Unlike UDP, a CONNECT message in TCP service does mean that you have established acommunication link with the destination.TransmittingOnce in data state, the modem uses its PAD management services to assemble the data comingfrom the host into packets. See Section 5.8 for a discussion of these services.ReceivingIncoming packets are accepted from the destination address specified in the Dial commandregardless of whether or not it is contained in the Friends list.Any packets arriving from an IP other than that in the Dial command are ignored.If the modem has been placed in command state but is still in on-line condition, incoming datawill be buffered. There is an automatic remote flow control between the modem and the networkto prevent overflow.5.7.3.2. Escaping Data StateThere are two methods to escape data state in TCP packet service. The host can issue the PADTime Independent Escape Sequence (TIES) if it is enabled, or the DTR Option can be used if it isenabled.TIESThis method is enabled with register +WS60=1 (the default). It is disabled with a setting of 0(zero).When enabled, the host can send AT+++ as a packet. The “AT” portion must be in uppercase.See Section 5.8 for details on packet management and notes regarding the PAD Inter-CharacterTimer.When the TIES is received by the modem, it will enter command state but remain registered and inon-line condition (the session is kept open). If data arrives at the modem while the session is openand the modem is in command state, the data is buffered as described above. See below forinstructions on closing the session.If the session has been kept open, the host can re-enter data state by issuing the On-line command(O). The modem will respond with CONNECT and data state is restored.DTR OptionAn alternative to TIES is to pre-set the DTR Options (&D) to either 1 or 2 and then switch DTRoff to escape data state. If the option is set to 1 (&D1), the modem will enter command state andremain registered with the current session still open. If the DTR Option is 2 (&D2) then themodem will close the session, de-register, and return to command state. Note that if auto-registration is enabled, the modem will switch off DCD (closing the current session) but willremain registered.If the session has been kept open, the host can re-enter data state by issuing the On-line command(O). The modem will respond with CONNECT and data state is restored.5.7.3.3. Closing a TCP SessionTo end a TCP session, escape data state as described above. If the &D2 DTR option is used thenthe session is closed.If TIES or the &D1 DTR option is used then you must hang-up with either ATH0 or ATH1 toclose the session. Both of these command options will close the current session. If the modem isset to manual registration, it will also be de-registered by both of these options.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 49ATH1 will force de-registration of the modem even if auto-registration is enabled. The modemwill remain de-registered. Although auto-registration remains enabled, the modem will notresume auto-registration until the register is reset (+WS173=1) or the modem itself re-entersCDPD mode (a modem reset or power cycle on CDPD-only modems).NOTE: There is a PAD Inactivity Timeout in register S30 that can also close a session. Thistimer is disabled by default (set to 0) but can be set to a value from 1 to 20 minutes to prevent themodem from holding an idle session open. If this mechanism closes the session the modem willsend the message “NO CARRIER” and return to command state. The Carrier Detect (DCD)signal will also go inactive indicating the session is closed.5.7.3.4. Opening a TCP Server SessionServer sessions are those in which your modem answers a “call” from another system.A detailed discussion of this type of session follows the outline of steps to open a TCP ServerSession. (AT is omitted for brevity):1. +WS46=4 to place the modem in CDPD mode (only required on the SB320).2. +S31=0 to disable logic sleep.3. +WS175=0 to disable CDPD sleep.4. +WS45=1 to select TCP packet service.5. Optionally assign a channel with +WPCHAN=n where n is the channel to use.6. Optionally verify the channel acquisition with +WPRSSI looking for the second value in thereturn string to be 3.If the modem is using auto-registration (+WS173=1) skip to step 9.7. +WS197=n where n is the index (1-4) of the NEI to register, to select the NEI8. +WPREG to register on the CDPD network. The modem will reply as noted in the sectionabove on manual registration.9. +WS56? to query the registration status. Repeat this command until it returns a value of1 (registered) or until the host chooses to timeout, failing the connection.10. +WS212=<port> where <port> is the port number (1025-4999) that the modem will listento. The modem will only accept packets addressed to this port. The factory default is 2100.11. S0=1 sets the modem into auto-answer mode. The modem will remain in command stateuntil a TCP handshake is completed with a calling client.The session is not actually opened until a TCP connection handshake is negotiated with anaccepted IP address on the listening port. In server sessions the modem will check all incomingpackets for the source IP address. If Friends Only is enabled, the originator’s IP address ischecked against entries in the Friends List. If no match is found the handshake will fail and thehost will not be advised of any activity. This is handled entirely within the modem.If the originator’s IP is accepted the session is opened and the host is notified with the messages“RING” and “CONNECT <ip>” (where <ip> is the address of the client station). TheCONNECT message provides a “caller ID”. At this point the modem changes from commandstate to data state. Incoming packets are then presented to the host and the modem is ready toaccept host reply data for packet assembly and transmission to the client.Detailed DiscussionThe first four steps simply place the modem in CDPD TCP mode. The modem’s sleep featuresare disabled to prevent delays in TCP acknowledgements, which would cause excessive re-transmissions and possibly loss of connection. The modem’s packet service is set in register+WS45 (Packet Service) by step 4. Setting this value to 1 will enable the modem’s TCP stack.This can be done before or after registration on the network so auto-registration can occur beforethis step.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 50 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0The registration process can be more closely controlled with steps 5 through 8. Steps 5 and 6 canbe used in auto-register as well as manual register settings.The network registration is verified by testing register +WS56. Once registered the modem isconfigured to receive calls.The listening port (+WS212) must be set to the desired port number to communicate over. Boththe client and server must share this port number.In a server session, the host does not originate transmissions, but rather waits for service requestsfrom a calling client. The modem does not enter data state until a successful TCP handshake hasbeen negotiated.ReceivingIncoming requests for TCP connection are accepted from the network only if the IP of the senderis on the Friends List or the list is empty (Friends Only disabled) and the destination port matchesthe listening port. Any connection requests or packets arriving from an IP other than thoseaccepted are ignored.Once the session has been started, the modem will only receive packets from the connected clientIP. This will remain in effect until the session is closed.If the modem has been placed in command state but is still in on-line condition, incoming datawill be buffered. There is an automatic remote flow control between the modem and the networkto prevent overflow.TransmittingOnce in data state, the modem uses its PAD management services to assemble the data comingfrom the host into packets. See Section 5.8 for a discussion of these services.All outgoing packets are directed to the connected client IP until the connection is closed.5.7.3.5. Escaping Data StateEscaping data state to allow the issuing of AT commands to the modem is handled exactly thesame way as a client session. See Section 5.7.3.2 above for details.5.7.3.6. Closing a TCP Server SessionClosing a server session can be handled in three ways.• The server host can close the session exactly the same way as a client session. SeeSection 5.7.3.3 above for details.• The client can disconnect. The server host will receive the “NO CARRIER” message and theCarrier Detect (DCD) signal will go inactive indicating the session has closed.• The modem can close the session if the PAD Inactivity Timeout in register S30 expires. Thistimer is disabled by default (set to 0) but can be set to a value from 1 to 20 minutes to preventthe modem from holding an idle session open. If this mechanism closes the session themodem will send the message “NO CARRIER” and return to command state. The CarrierDetect (DCD) signal will also go inactive indicating the session is closed.Provided the modem is set to auto-register and ATH1 is not used to close the session, the modemis ready for the next server session without further configuration. Auto-answer will remainenabled and the modem registered on the network.To disable auto-answer, you must set register S0=0. This will prevent the modem from openingany further server sessions.
User’s Guide CDPD Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 515.8. Packet Assembly ManagementOnce in data state with either the UDP or TCP PAD enabled, the modem accepts data from thehost (DTE) and assembles it into packets. Packet assembly is largely transparent to the host butsome assembly management features are available.Starting a PacketA packet is started when the host starts sending data to the modem. The modem will buffer thedata as it assembles the packet.Real Time Data Entry and EditingThe modem can echo characters from the host back to it is cases where a terminal application isbeing used to allow individuals to type and send messages in real time. This is similar to InternetRelay Chat (IRC). Setting +WS62=1 will enable the echo (the default) and setting +WS62=0will disable it.If this type of communication is being used, the modem can also optionally allow editing of thepacket buffer. Setting +WS72=1 (the default) will enable local editing of the data before it isforwarded to the network. This allows you to backspace using the character set in +WS73 (thedefault is 8 <BS>). If local echo is also enabled then the modem will echo the backspacecharacter, a space, and another backspace.Forwarding a PacketThe modem closes and sends a packet when one of the following events occur:1. The maximum packet length set in +WS74 (default 1000) is reached. You may wish to setthis value smaller if you are encountering too many packet errors and retransmissions. Settingit below 5 will preclude use of the TIES to exit data mode. See below for details.2. The modem receives the PAD Primary Forwarding Character set in register +WS64. Thischaracter defaults to 13, the carriage return <CR>. The feature is enabled by default and canbe controlled with a bit mask option set in register +WS63. The options are:0Disabled1The packet is terminated and the forwarding character is discarded.3The forwarding character is included in the packet before the packet is closed and sent.The default option setting is 3.3. The PAD Inter-Character Timer (+WS70) expires. This timer is disabled (set to 0) bydefault. It can be set to values from 0.1 to 25.5 seconds. If particularly short times are used,real time typing will be forwarded virtually as it is received. This would also mean thatmanually typing the TIES to escape data mode is virtually impossible as the packet is closedbefore the full character string is entered.NOTE: If you disable the primary forwarding character (+WS63=0) and the timer (+WS70=0),the only way to forward packets will be to fill the packet buffer. This is very stronglydiscouraged.Using TIESThe Time Independent Escape Sequence (TIES) is a method to shift the modem from data state tocommand state. It is enabled by setting +WS60=1 (the default) and disabled by setting+WS60=0.The escape sequence is a packet containing only the string “AT+++” where the “AT” must be inuppercase. To ensure the packet contains only this value you must be sure that you are starting anew packet and that the modem will not close the packet before the string is complete.To ensure you are starting a packet, you must ensure that one of the forwarding events describedabove has occurred. The easiest way is to send the Primary Forwarding Character.To ensure that you can enter the complete string, you cannot set the maximum packet length lessthan 5. You must also provide sufficient time in the PAD Inter-Character Timer to enter each
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 52 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0character. If this is to be manually typed, the value should be set quite high (or disabledaltogether). You must also avoid setting the PAD Primary Forwarding Character (+WS64) to oneof the three characters in the TIES string (A=65 ,T=84 ,+=43 ).5.9. Data and Telemetry ApplicationsIf you are communicating data files or telemetry using one of the modem’s PAD services (UDP orTCP) that do not involve direct human interaction, you should make appropriate changes to thepacket management features of the modem.Exact settings will depend on the nature of your application and the quality of your networkconnection. What follows are some issues to consider.If binary data is being communicated, you should disable the PAD Primary Forwarding Characterfeature (+WS63=0) and use the PAD Inter-Character Timer (+WS70=5) instead. This willprevent unusually small packets where the forwarding character might occur frequently in thebinary data. It will also ensure data is forwarded to the network within a roughly known period.This allows the server to detect if problems have occurred at the client end.The maximum packet length (+WS74) should be set as best suits the size of the data or telemetryfiles you are sending. Remember that, in areas of poor network connectivity whereretransmissions are frequent, overall throughput may be improved by using smaller packet sizes.Specific modem configuration samples for particular case studies may be available soon from theSierra Wireless Internet site at www.sierrawireless.com.
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 536. CSC OperationThis section provides information on configuring and using the SB320 modem in Circuit SwitchedCellular (CSC) mode if you are not using Watcher and Windows Dial-up Networking for yourconnections. If you are using a standard Windows-based application then consult Section 3.3Configuration using WirelessExpert.The introduction provides some background on CSC communications in general.6.1. IntroductionCircuit Switched Cellular is a wireless mode of communication in which the data link connectionbetween the SB320 modem and the remote modem is made over the circuit switched voice cellularnetwork. This voice cellular network is based on the Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS).Data communications are carried on over this link as if a standard landline telephone connection isbeing used. Circuit Switched Cellular is perhaps the most familiar form of wireless data and voicecommunications. This mode works like normal wireline communication except that the modemlink is over a cellular phone call rather than a landline phone call. Like cellular phones, cellularmodems have their own telephone number and require a dedicated channel for the duration of thecall.6.1.1. Modem Registration6.1.1.1. Cellular Phone NumberUsing the modem over the cellular network requires that the modem be assigned a NumberAssignment Module (NAM). This is essentially the phone number associated with your modem.This is assigned to you when you register your modem with a cellular carrier. The cellular carrierrequires the unique Electronic Serial Number (ESN) which is assigned to your modem at thefactory.The unit is capable of retaining two NAMs, with each NAM being independently assigned to anycellular service provider.As with your credit card number, bank machine number, or any other private password, youshould safeguard the NAM and keep it private.Calls made with the Sierra Wireless modem using CSC mode are not possible until the NAM hasbeen programmed. The NAM data consists of the cellular phone number as well as othersubscriber and cellular service provider information.6.1.1.2. Electronic Serial Number (ESN)The Sierra Wireless modem stores the ESN internally. You can display it through the Watcherapplication by choosing Help > About from the main menu when the modem is operating inCircuit Switched Cellular mode. You can also display the ESN by using the AT+WVESNcommand. The ESN is displayed in text form for both NAMs.6.1.2. CSC Radio CoverageBecause the cellular radio channel is an inherently noisy channel (unlike the public switchedtelephone network), the remote modem to which the Sierra Wireless modem places a call shouldas a minimum, support the V.42 error correction standard. This will correct the errors in datatransmission that occur over the radio channel.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 54 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0These errors result from various forms of electrical interference, noise generated by other cellularsubscribers (especially during peak usage periods), and the user being located in areas of poorcellular coverage such as remote locations or inside buildings. The use of any cellular deviceinside a building suffers from varying degrees of signal loss due to losses in the building walls andoffice materials inside the building. Better signals can be achieved by locating the modem near awindow or other opening and by ensuring that the modem antenna is deployed in the verticalposition.Within any cellular network, there will be regions of poor signal coverage. In these areas, noisewill affect communications. In addition, an effect known as co-channel interference can be heardon the cellular channel. This is interference from a cellular phone in a different cell. These effectswill sporadically limit the communications link, leading to momentary loss of data, or a droppedcall.6.1.3. Modem PoolsAs discussed in Section 4.5.2 above, there are significant performance differences betweenconfiguration profiles for cellular modems and landline modems. To help alleviate this, somecellular carriers offer modem pools for cellular data calls.Modem pools were developed to overcome the need to have a “cellularly aware” modem at thelandline side of a cellular data link. The end to end link actually consists of two back to backmodem connections. The cellular modem initiates a connection with the cell-side modem in apool, while at the same time the land-side modem in the pool initiates a connection with thedestination landline modem. The two modems within the modem pool pass data betweenthemselves using a buffered digital link. The cell-side modem typically supports the necessaryfeatures to ensure a robust modem link.To use a modem pool for a call, involves prefixing the called phone number with *DATA(*3282).Although benefits are generally gained by using modem pools, there are a few disadvantages tothis configuration:• Call initiation time is long, and there can be long delays in end to end character echo.• Calls to mobile modems cannot be made through a modem pool.• Configuration is unique from base-station to base-station, it is not always optimized.Section 6.5 below provides information for advanced users on optimizing the modem forparticular environments.6.2. Configuring the Modem for CSCYou can configure the settings using either WirelessExpert or Watcher as described in Section 3.3and 3.5.2. Alternatively you can enter the configuration using AT commands as described in thefollowing sub-sections.6.2.1. Setting the NAMSee Section 2.2.2 for information on registering for CSC cellular service. Make sure your carriergives you a 10-digit NAM (area code plus phone number), Home System ID, and a sidepreference (A or B).1. +WS46=7 to ensure the modem is in CSC mode.2. +WS178=n where n is the entry you wish to edit (1 or 2). This will make it the active NAM.3. +WPNAM? to display the current entry and verify that it can be changed.4. +WPNAM=num,sys,pref where num is the 10 digit phone number with area code andwithout brackets, spaces, or dashes (i.e. 6042311100); sys is the Host System ID provided byyour cellular service provider; and pref is the numeric code for the side preference as shownbelow:
User’s Guide CSC Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 550 – A side preferred,1 – B side preferred,2 – A side only,3 – B side only,4 – Home only.When you press <enter> the modem will update the entry and respond OK. If the response isERROR then a parameter was out of range or the syntax was incorrect.5. +WPNAM? to display the new entry and verify it is correct.The NAM is now set and is active. If you wish to enter an alternate NAM then repeat the processfrom step 2. The active NAM used by the modem for CSC connections will be the one indexed bythe +WS178 register when you are finished.6.2.2. Confirm CSC ServiceTo ensure that your modem can make a cellular call:1. +WS46=7 to ensure the modem is in CSC mode.2. +WS178=n where n is the NAM entry you wish to use. This will make it the active NAM.3. +WPNAM? to display the current entry and verify that it is the one to be used.4. +WPRSSI to verify that you have acquired a channel and the NAM will register. The replyto this command is in four lines:Signal strength in dBm (-0 indicates no signal)Channel state where 1 indicates scanning and 3 indicates an acquired channelRegistration state where 0 indicates your NAM is not registered, and 1 indicates registrationChannel number (0 indicates scanning).Use A/ to repeat the RSSI query until your modem can find a channel and register the NAM.If the modem fails to register the NAM on a channel after one minute then your NAM doesnot likely have service in the coverage area.When the RSSI reports the modem has registered the NAM:5. ATDnum where num is a telephone number that you can call to detect a ring. This can be avoice line at or near your workstation. The modem will dial the number and you should hearthe ring and see a ring indication reply on the host terminal application.If you dial a destination modem set to auto-answer, the handshake should complete and theconnection result will be reported. You can terminate the connection normally.6. If you call a line which does not answer, press any key to have the modem cancel the call andreturn to command state or allow the dial command to timeout.6.3. Originate a CSC ConnectionCSC operates just like regular landline modems except the call is placed over a cellular network.Watcher (Section 0) can be used to setup the modem for CSC operation. When set, a call can beplaced using any modem application which can issue a dial command to the port.Alternatively, Windows Dial-up Networking can be configured to establish a connection. If Dial-up Networking (or any other communication application) is used to setup the modem, the setupstring should be:AT &F5This command will configure the modem to use ETC settings that improve performance forcellular connections. See Section 6.5 below for a full discussion of optimized cellular settings.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 56 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0You may freely add necessary settings to control the local DTE/DCE interface (echo, verbose,quiet, etc.) without altering the remote connection settings.6.4. Auto-answer a Cellular CallYour application can use the modem just like any landline modem. The modem setup stringshould be:AT &F5AT S0=n where n is the ring count on which the modem will answer the line.This setup will configure the modem to use ETC settings that improve performance for cellularconnections. See Section 6.5 below for a full discussion of optimized cellular settings.You may freely add necessary settings to control the local DTE/DCE interface (echo, verbose,quiet, etc.) without altering the remote connection settings.6.5. Optimizing Data PerformanceThe SB320 modem can be configured for excellent cellular performance. The AT&T ParadyneComsphere product line is recommended as the landline side. Alternatively cellular modem pools,sometimes supplied by the cellular service provider are normally good for performance, althoughthey too need to be properly configured by the cellular carrier to optimize the performance.The SB320 modem supports V.34 protocol allowing it to achieve higher connection speeds, and tooptimize its filter characteristics dynamically to get the best Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) on agiven link. This makes for a much more robust and faster connection and speeds of 19200 bps arenot uncommon with this modem if the host supports V.34 as well.To help determine the nature of the connections being established in trials it may be useful to havethe modem report a more extensive reply. Setting S95=127 will enable the modem to report theDCE connection speed, protocol, and compression negotiated.A number of connection scenarios between a SB320 and a variety of host modems are consideredin the following sections in an attempt to present a guideline to improve connectivity. The hostmodems are divided in two categories: those that support ETC and those that don’t. Of thosemodems that don’t support ETC, a further differentiation is made with regard to those that supportLAPM/V.42bis and those that don’t. Finally, modem pools with *DATA service are consideredas a separate category, even though these modems do implement ETC.But first the factory settings are described as a reference point.6.5.1. Factory Default for ETCThe &F5 command will configure the SB320 for optimal performance on most cellular systems.This AT command is designed to make it easy for the user or application to set up the modem inETC mode. Sending just this one command will cause the modem to reconfigure all its registers,including those that are not associated with ETC, to factory default and optimized for ETCoperation.It is equivalent to sending AT&F0 followed by a series of additional AT commands and S-Register settings which pertain to ETC mode. This is why it can be thought of as a ‘super’ ATcommand. A brief description and commentary of each of these additional settings is givenbelow.\N5 Enables V.42 LAPM error control only. This is a requirement of ETC. Themodem will disconnect if the remote end does not support LAPM.-K0 This is a companion to the above command indicating a preference for LAPMwhen using V.42.
User’s Guide CSC Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 57*H2 This sets the Link Negotiation Speed for the initial connection to 4800 bps. Thepolicy of “start slow and train up” guarantees that the initial negotiation phasehas more chance of success. Start-up speeds of 4800 bps and 9600 bps (*H3)may be used. In addition if a connection has not been established after 60seconds, the modems will fall back to 1200 bps.S7=120 The Wait for Carrier is set to 120 seconds. The handshaking process with ETCenabled and cellular generally can take longer than the default 50 seconds. Thisis especially true of modem pools are being used.S10=100 Lost Carrier Hang-up Delay is set to 10 seconds. The default is 0.6 seconds butcellular links can be interrupted during cell changes and due to other “noise” sothe modem will wait longer to determine if the connection is truly lost.S51=15 This sets the V.34 symbol rate to 2800 symbols per second and the carrierfrequency control to automatic for transmissions. The default would allow 3429symbols per second, which is likely to lead to more failures and retransmissions.S52=15 This does the same as S51 but for the V.34 receive side.S55=37 V.34 options are set to enable asymmetric bit rates, and non-linear encoding. Itdisables asymmetric rates, constellation expansion and receiver pre-encoding.S70=20 This extends the maximum number of retransmissions from the default 12 up to20.S96=31 ETC Options are set to enable all features for ETC handshaking. This includesenabling a fallback to 1200 bps if higher rates cannot be supported. It alsoenables /ETC to be appended to the CONNECT message.S106=32 The frame size for LAPM is set to the minimum 32. The default is the maximumof 128. Use of a small frame size does reduce direct throughput, but gives amore robust connection. This leads to fewer retransmissions and can improveoverall throughput in noisy connections that require frequent retransmissions.S108=3 Signal Quality is selected to high, meaning that automatic re-training is activatedat the most sensitive setting. This means that the modem will re-train on slightchanges in line quality. This is intended to keep the rate as high as practical.6.5.1.1. Data RateEven with optimal configuration, modems will have a tendency to attempt to communicate at adata rate that is faster than optimal for overall throughput. For this reason it is recommended thatregister S37 (Desired DCE Speed) be used to limit the maximum data communications rate. Thisregister can be set as part of the initialization string eg. ATS37=7.Remember that the factory setting above sets the speed for the initial negotiation at 4800 bps butthe modem can train up to a maximum set in S37. The default value for S37 is to connect nofaster than the DTE connection speed (currently fixed at 19200 bps). This will happen only if theline conditions allow it. Otherwise, the modem will connect at a lower speed.If the modem is found to be training up and down too often due to a constantly changing linequality, it may be better to reduce the upper limit to 7200 bps (s37=8) or 4800 bps (s37=7). Thiswill result in a more stable connection and eliminate excessive speed negotiation. This is feasibleif speed is not critical to the application or if small amounts of data are transferred at any one time.Alternatively, if retraining is too frequent, the line quality threshold for retraining can be shifteddown using S108. This should only be tried under controlled trial conditions to determine the bestbalance between signal threshold and maximum line speed. Transmitting a 100k test file gives areasonable measure of throughput efficiency.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 58 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0Based on field experience using the &F5 settings, the following limits are recommended:• V.32bis talking to cellularly aware landline modem – 9600 bps (S37=9)• V.32bis talking to standard wireline modem – 4800 bps (S37=7)• V.34 talking to cellularly aware modem – 12000 bps (S37=10)• V.34 talking to standard wireline modem – 9600 bps. (S37=9)If only a small amount of data is being transferred, it is recommended that a data rate of 4800 bps(S37=7) is used. This will give optimal performance and coverage area. Error Correction shouldalways be enabled. Flow control should be used (hardware recommended).For situations where even 4800 bps does not hold a connection, the last suggestion is to try a datalink at 1200 bps (s37=5).6.5.2. Connections to ETC Enabled ModemsEnhanced Throughput Cellular (ETC) is a protocol enhancement designed to optimize cellulardata communications. It is described in Section 4.5.2.1.This is the best case scenario and it should be possible to achieve speeds of 9600 – 19200 bps ifthe host supports V.34 and ETC. The table below lists some of the steps for troubleshooting badconnections at both the SB320 end and the Host modem end. As a rule, when starting thetroubleshooting procedure, both modems should be reset to their respective factory defaultssettings. If problems still persist, then a more thorough analysis of each modem’s settings needsto be done as outlined below.6.5.3. Connections to Non-ETC Compatible ModemsIf the remote modem does not support LAPM and V.22bis then you will have to allow the SB320to use alternative protocols. The &F0 command is used. This AT command configures themodem in CSC data mode but without ETC enabled.An additional series of AT commands and S-Register settings should also be set to optimize themodem to operate in a cellular environment without the benefits of the ETC protocol. This non-ETC configuration will then allow the modems to negotiate other protocols such as MNP, etc.The following additional commands should be sent to configure the modem for CSC mode usewith non-ETC compatible modems:\N3 Enables V.42 LAPM error control but also allows MNP and will even tolerate anon-error controlled link. A setting of 2 is also possible if you want todisconnect if neither LAPM nor MNP error control can be negotiated.-K0 This is a companion to the above command indicating a preference for LAPMwhen using V.42.*H2 This sets the Link Negotiation Speed for the initial connection to 4800 bps. Thepolicy of “start slow and train up” guarantees that the initial negotiation phasehas more chance of success. Start-up speeds of 4800 bps and 9600 bps (*H3)may be used. In addition if a connection has not been established after 60seconds, the modems will fall back to 1200 bps.S7=120 The Wait for Carrier should be set higher than the default 50 seconds to allow forthe added time of cellular (and possibly modem pool) connections. This sets thewait to 120 seconds.S10=100 Lost Carrier Hang-up Delay is set to 10 seconds. The default is 0.6 seconds butcellular links can be interrupted during cell changes and due to other “noise” sothe modem will wait longer to determine if the connection is truly lost.S51=15 This sets the V.34 symbol rate to 2800 symbols per second and the carrierfrequency control to automatic for transmissions. The default would allow 3429symbols per second, which is likely to lead to more failures and retransmissions.
User’s Guide CSC Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 59S52=15 This does the same as S51 but for the V.34 receive side.S55=37 V.34 options are set to enable asymmetric bit rates, and non-linear encoding. Itdisables asymmetric rates, constellation expansion and receiver pre-encoding.S70=20 This extends the maximum number of retransmissions from the default 12 up to20. Higher values are possible if needed.S106=32 The frame size for error correction protocols is set to the minimum 32. Thedefault is the maximum of 128. Use of a small frame size does reduce directthroughput, but gives a more robust connection. This leads to fewerretransmissions and can improve overall throughput in noisy connections thatrequire frequent retransmissions.S108=3 Signal Quality is selected to high, meaning that automatic re-training is activatedat the most sensitive setting. This means that the modem will re-train on slightchanges in line quality. This is intended to keep the rate as high as practical.The data rate discussion in Section 6.5.1.1 also applies to this type of connection.6.5.4. Connections to Modem PoolsThis scenario is also a best case scenario and it should again be possible to achieve speeds of19200 – 9600 bps in most circumstances. Modem pools are discussed in Section 6.1.3 above.The SB320 connection is a cellular one and therefore its pool counterpart will be an ETC-capablemodem. This means that the SB320 should be configured in its factory default ETC mode usingAT&F5 as described earlier.The destination modem’s connection to the pool is a standard landline connection and the remotemodem must be configured as such. In this case the destination modem should be configured tosupport the full array of protocols to give it the best possible options for connecting to the cellularcarrier’s modem pool on the landline side.If any configuration adjustments are to be made, understand that you are either optimizing theconnection from the SB320 to the pool modem or from the destination modem to the pool and notdirectly between the SB320 and the destination.
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2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 617. Wireline Operation7.1. IntroductionWireline mode is that most commonly associated with computer communications: the modem isconnected via a telephone line. Only the SB320 supports this mode.This section provides information on configuring and using the SB320 modem in Wireline modeif you are not using Watcher and Windows Dial-up Networking for your connections. If you areusing a standard Windows-based application then consult Section 3.3 Configuration usingWirelessExpert.7.1.1. HardwareTo connect the SB320 to a telephone line the 13-pin I/O connector is used. Pins 12 and 13 are thewireline RING and TIP respectively.For testing purposes, the MIB supports connection of the SB320 to a telephone line with a RJ-11connector (PSTN). The SB320 I/O connector must also be in place.NOTEThe telephone connection must be to a standard analogue telephone line. Locationswhich have an internal PBX telephone system may use digital telephone linesinternally. Digital lines will NOT work with the modem.The modem’s load number (5B) is noted on the modem’s back label.7.2. Configuring the Modem for WirelineThe modem does not require any special configuration for Wireline mode. The modem is placedin Wireline mode by setting +WS46=1.7.2.1. Connecting to another Wireline Modem or Modem PoolThe factory settings (&F0) are fine for wireline operation. The modem will enable all protocolsup to V.34. ETC for cellular connections is disabled by default.7.2.2. Connecting to a Cellular ModemIf the destination modem is on a cellular network, you should familiarize yourself with theconsiderations discussed in Sections 4.4 and 4.5 on protocols and handshaking. The discussion onCSC in the section above is also worth reading to understand the kinds of issues that can arise.For these types of connections you should issue the “super” AT command &F6 whichautomatically includes additional setup commands as follows:\N3 Enables V.42 LAPM error control but also allows MNP and will even tolerate anon-error controlled link. This allows for both a direct ETC connection to thedestination and a non-ETC connection to a modem pool. A setting of 2 is alsopossible if you want to disconnect if neither LAPM nor MNP error control can benegotiated.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 62 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0-K0 This is a companion to the above command indicating a preference for LAPMwhen using V.42.*H0 This sets the Link Negotiation Speed for the initial connection to a maximumequivalent to the DTE speed. It will adapt to the speed of the other modem.S7=120 The Wait for Carrier is set higher than the default 50 seconds to allow for theadded time of cellular (and possibly modem pool) connections. This sets thewait to 120 seconds.S10=100 Lost Carrier Hang-up Delay is set to 10 seconds. The default is 0.6 seconds butcellular links can be interrupted during cell changes and due to other “noise” sothe modem will wait longer to determine if the connection is truly lost.S51=15 This sets the V.34 symbol rate to 2800 symbols per second and the carrierfrequency control to automatic for transmissions. The default would allow 3429symbols per second, which is likely to lead to more failures and retransmissions.S52=15 This does the same as S51 but for the V.34 receive side.S55=37 V.34 options are set to enable asymmetric bit rates, and non-linear encoding. Itdisables asymmetric rates, constellation expansion and receiver pre-encoding.S70=20 This extends the maximum number of retransmissions from the default 12 up to20. Higher values are possible if needed.S96=29 ETC Options are set to enable all features for ETC handshaking except cellularnetwork compensations are not enabled since your end is non-cellular. Thisincludes enabling a fallback to 1200 bps if higher rates cannot be supported. Italso enables /ETC to be appended to the CONNECT message.S106=32 The frame size for error correction protocols is set to the minimum 32. Thedefault is the maximum of 128. Use of a small frame size does reduce directthroughput, but gives a more robust connection. This leads to fewerretransmissions and can improve overall throughput in noisy connections thatrequire frequent retransmissions.The data rate discussion in Section 6.5.1.1 also applies to this type of connection.7.3. Originate a Wireline ConnectionWatcher (Section 0) can be used to set the modem to Wireline operation. When set, a call can beplaced using any modem application which can issue a dial command to the COM port.Alternatively, Windows Dial-up Networking can be configured to establish a connection. If Dial-up Networking (or any other communication application) is used to setup the modem, the setupstring should be:AT &F0 for calls to a wireline modem destination– OR –AT &F6 for calls to a cellular modem destinationYou may freely add necessary settings to control the local DTE/DCE interface (echo, verbose,quiet, etc.) without altering the remote connection settings.
User’s Guide Wireline Operation2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 637.4. Auto-answer a Wireline CallYour application can use the SB320 modem just like any other landline modem. The modemsetup string should be the appropriate factory setting as indicated in Section 7.3 above. To enableauto-answer add:AT S0=n where n is the ring count on which the modem will answer the line.You may freely add necessary settings to control the local DTE/DCE interface (echo, verbose,quiet, etc.) without altering the remote connection settings.
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2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 658. Troubleshooting8.1. IntroductionSome solutions to common problems are described here. They are grouped along the lines of thefour operations chapters. General problems communicating with the modem in the first sectionand issues which are specific to particular modes in subsequent sections.An up to date troubleshooting guide will be available on the Sierra Wireless Internet site atwww.sierrawireless.com.If you cannot resolve a problem after reading this chapter and consulting our web site, pleasecontact the Sierra Wireless help desk at (604) 231-1128 (between 06:00 and 17:00 Pacific Time)or e-mail us at support@sierrawireless.com.8.2. General Modem ProblemsThe SB300 Series modems are thoroughly inspected during manufacture. There are no end-useraccess items within the case or on the circuit boards of the modem. If problems occur, check thefollowing:Problem Description SuggestionsWirelessExpert fails to setupWindows Dial-upNetworking ConnectionWatcher fails to locate themodem.Use the Windows Start > Settings > Control Panel > Modems toinstall the Sierra Wireless modem.Modem fails whentransmitting.The LED indicator(SB300/320) does not light.Check that the power source has adequate voltage and current. Themodem requires regulated 5 Vdc at 850 mA. If the power is marginal itcan be the problem. The SB300 Series modems draw up to 850 mAunder maximum power output. The power output is a function of themodem’s distance from the Mobile Data Base Station. It is possible forthe modem to work well with a particular power supply in a locationrequiring low power output (low current draw), and yet to fail using thesame power supply in a location requiring a high power output.Check the amperage rating of the power supply to verify that it isadequate for all situations.Check the fuse (if any) in the power source and as a final test use avoltmeter to check for an open cable.Modem disconnects or resetsintermittently. Ensure the DTR signal is not floating or being changed by the host.Set AT&D0 to have the modem ignore DTR.Verify that CSC radio signal strength is sufficient. Weak signals maycause loss of carrier and subsequent disconnection. Use higher valuesin register S10 (Lost Carrier Hang-up Delay).AT commands are sent toconfigure the modem but themodem does not use thesettings when running anapplication.Verify that the application does not send its own modem setupcommands after you have configured the modem. If it does, then eitherdisable the feature or set your configuration in the application’s setupstring.
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 66 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.08.3. General Communication ProblemsProblem Description SuggestionsFails to respond to ATcommand. Verify that you are using the correct COM port and communicationparameters (speed, data bits, parity, etc.)Verify the serial cable connections.Verify the modem is powered on and allow for 10 seconds initializationtime.Try typing the command ATE1Q0. This will enable the modem echoof your keystrokes (in following commands) and disable the quiet mode(suppression of return codes).Try typing AT&F. This restores factory defaults.Try resetting the modem.Data is intermittently lostduring the connection. Ensure that proper flow control is being used at all connections.If UDP is used, remember that data loss is inherent in the design.Implement a positive acknowledge and timeout scheme at theapplication level with re-transmissions as needed.If the connection is CSC mode, try setting a slower data rate (registerS37).8.4. CDPD ProblemsThis table lists problems specifically related to CDPD use.Problem Description SuggestionsFails to lock onto a CDPDchannel. Make sure that the antenna is connected correctly.Check that you are in the CDPD coverage area, or that your immediatelocation is not preventing the radio/modem from receiving a signal, e.g.,you are in an area of weak signal strength.Fails to register on a CDPDchannel. Make sure the NEI and side designator are configured correctly.Make sure you are using the correct registration mode (auto or manual)and are issuing the registration command if using manual registration.If ATH1 was issued, the modem will not resume auto-registration untilthe modem is reset or the command AT+WS173=1 is issued to re-enable auto-registration.Check that the correct NEI is being used (Active or Auto-register NEIIndices) and the SPNI table. An incorrect value will prevent registrationeven in areas with strong signals. Erase the SPNI table if necessary.Check with your CDPD service provider to confirm that your account isactivated. You may need to reset your credentials.Registers but data transferfails. Check that the host serial cable is properly attached.There may be a flow control problem.Slow response from theCDPD network. The CDPD network may be congested with heavy use. No user actioncan alleviate this problem. Retry your connection later.
User’s Guide Troubleshooting2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 67CDPD Problems (Continued)Problem Description SuggestionsWatcher reports: CDPD rasconnection is not running. Close all communication applications, then close and restart Watcher.Watcher reports a goodconnection and you areregistered to a CDPDnetwork however yourInternet Web Browser cannever find sites.Make sure the DNS entry in Dial-up Networking is correct. This is theIP address of the Internet Domain Name Server responsible forconverting site names into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Without thecorrect IP of a name server your browser cannot locate web sites.8.5. CSC ProblemsThis table lists problems specifically related to CSC use.Problem Description SuggestionsFails to acquire a Cellularchannel. Make sure that the antenna is connected correctly.Check that you are in the cellular coverage area, or that your immediatelocation is not preventing the radio/modem from receiving a signal, e.g.,you are in an area of weak signal strength.Acquires a channel butcannot place a call. Make sure the NAM and side designator are configured correctly.Check that the correct NAM is being used (Active NAM Index).Check with your Cellular service provider to confirm that your accountis activated.If the cellular network becomes congested due to heavy cellular usertraffic, you may not be able to establish a connection. No user actioncan alleviate this problem. You will have to retry your connection later.8.6. Wireline ProblemsThis table lists problems specifically related to wireline use.Problem Description SuggestionsThe Speaker on the MIB isexcessively noisy. The modem was in CDPD mode and changed to Wireline. When thismode change was done, the cellular radio was not powered off. Powercycle the modem to ensure the radio is off.The modem does not go off-hook to place or answer callsor intermittently disconnects.Verify the telephone cable connections at both ends. You may need toattach a handset to the line to verify that the PSTN service is active andconnections are clear (free of noise, interference, tones, etc.).Additionally see the following symptoms and suggestions.The modem does not go off-hook to answer incomingcalls.Verify the auto-answer is enabled (register S0).
The Operational View SB300 SeriesPage 68 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0Wireline Problems (continued)Problem Description SuggestionsThe modem does not go off-hook and begin dialing. Verify the duration of DTMF tones (register S11) is sufficient to breakdial tone.Verify the telephone line is analogue and not digital.The modem won’t recognizethe local dial tone. Disable the dial tone detection using ATX0 or ATX1. Ensure thesetting of Wait For Blind Dial (S6) is sufficiently long.Modem intermittentlydisconnects. Ensure the telephone line does not support call waiting. If it does thendisable the feature. Consult your local telephone company to determinehow this is done.
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 69The Hardware View9. Product DescriptionsThe SB300 Series modems are designed for integration into devices that require wirelesscommunications such as PC’s, portable and handheld devices, metering and monitoringequipment, and point of sale terminals.All models provide CDPD V1.1 19.2 kbps communication. The SB320 also supports CircuitSwitched Cellular (CSC-AMPS) V.34 data rates to 16.8 kbps, and wireline (PSTN) V.34 datarates to 33.6 kbps.Packet Assembly / Disassembly (PAD) services are available in the modem for TCP and UDPcommunications. SLIP and PPP are also supported for host based protocol stacks.This chapter provides descriptions and specifications for the family. Individual modems aredescribed in separate sections below. All connector parts described are tabulated with mating partnumbers and supplier contact information in Section 9.2.5 below.The SB300 and SB320 share common physical and interface characteristics. The SB300 and 302share common functional characteristics.9.1. Hardware Integration ConsiderationsWhen integrating one of the SB300 Series modems, read Sections 9.2 Specifications Common toAll Modems, and then the specific section for the model being integrated.In addition, the following items need to be addressed by the integrator:Mounting• Effects of shock and vibration.• Protection from dust and dirt in connections.• Heat dissipation.RF• Shielding and filtering, and impacts on interference and sensitivity.• Antenna location and type, and impacts on RF performance.Regulatory ApprovalsAlthough the modems were tested on their own to be compliant with FCC Parts 15 and 22, yourcompleted installation must be certified to meet regulatory requirements in your area.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 70 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.09.2. Specifications Common to All ModemsThe following specifications provide information on all SB300 Series modems.9.2.1. Application Interface SpecificationsSerial Interface (DTE) 19200 bps (current firmware R1.0.1)110 – 115,200 bps (future auto-baud firmware)SLIP Interface RFC1055PPP Interface (future firmware) RFC1661, RFC1662, RFC1332 (not yet implemented)AT-Command Interface Hayes Compatible with PCCA Wireless ExtensionsUDP PAD Interface PCCA STD-101 CompliantTCP PAD Interface PCCA STD-101 CompliantObject Management Interface Sierra Wireless Inc. Proprietary9.2.2. RF FeaturesTransmitter Power 600 mWTransmitter Performance Meets or exceeds CDPD V1.1 Section 405FCC, Industry Canada, IS19B/CReceiver Sensitivity -108dBm 5% BLER9.2.3. Special FeaturesFeature BenefitSleep Mode Reduces current drain for improved battery life.TCP and UPD PAD Ping Reply Confirm network connectivity to the modem.Broadcast Message Support Broadcast to all modems in geographic area.TCP Session Time-out Permits reconnection of failed TCP session.“Friends-only” modem access Provides device security.AutoDial at Startup Modem automatically establishes communications.Software-controlled Reboot Quick problem recovery.Autobaud Flexible interfaceMultiCast Broadcast to defined subset of all modems.Configurable Listening Port Modem can listen on any port the host prefers.Escape from PAD modes Non-DTR controlled Escape.
User’s Guide Product Descriptions2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 719.2.4. Environmental SpecificationsSB300 SB302 SB320Operating Temp. -30 to +65oC-30 to +65oC-30 to +65oCStorage Temp. -40 to +85oC-40 to +85oC-40 to +85oCHumidity 5% to 95%non-condensing 5% to 95%non-condensing 5% to 95%non-condensingVibration Operational: IS-19CSurvivability: Mil-STD202None Operational: IS-19CSurvivability: Mil-STD202Shock 1 metre drop to a hardsurface None 1 metre drop to a hardsurface9.2.5. Connector Part NumbersThis section summarizes the parts used, their mating parts, and identifies the suppliers so that youcan acquire the needed connectors for the host equipment / accessories.9.2.5.1. Antenna ConnectorAll models of the SB300 Series use the same MMCX type antenna connector.Modem: Huber & Suhner 85 MMCX-50-0-1 FemaleHuber & Suhner 11 MMCX-50-1-1Straight plug for RG 178 B/U MaleSuggested Antenna CableConnectors:Huber & Suhner 16 MMCX-50-1-1Right angle plug for RG 178 B/U MaleHuber & Suhner can be contacted via www.hubersuhner.com.9.2.5.2. SB300 and SB320 Host (DTE) ConnectorsThe SB300 and SB320 both use a 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing for the host serialconnection. The connection is made using a 30-pin 0.5mm pitch Flat Flex Cable. The host end ofthe cable can be connected as suits your needs.SB300 / 320 Modems: Hirose FH12-30S-0.5SHHirose can be contacted via www.hiroseusa.com.The Cable can be obtained from several suppliers including:Axon Cable (www.axoncable.com)Parlex Corp
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 72 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0SB320 Wireline ConnectorThe SB320 has an additional wireline connector for connection to the telephone network via thehost. This is a 13-pin I/O connector.SB320 Modem: ITT-Cannon CA112112-1 MaleHost Wireline Connection: Contact ITT-Cannon FemaleITT-Cannon can be contacted via www.ittcannon.com. Small quantities of mating componentsmay be obtained from Sierra Wireless, Inc.9.2.5.3. SB302 Host (DTE) ConnectorsThe SB302 uses a 2x8 16-pin, 0.1” header connector. The connection is made using a standard0.1” header and ribbon cable. The host end of the ribbon cable can be connected as suits yourneeds.SB302 Modems: AMP 103186-8 (or similar) MaleAMP can be contacted via www.amp.com.
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 739.3. SB300 CDPD ModemPart number 11000349.3.1. Mechanical9.3.1.1. Physical DescriptionThe SB300 comes in a Type III package, and includes a30-pin, 0.5mm pitch ZIF connector for the host interface,a MMCX connector for the antenna, and a status LED. Dimensions (in mm) are as follows:Figure 9-1: SB300 Physical Dimensions [mm].9.3.1.2. MountingThe SB300 uses an industry standard Type III frame-kit, and as such will fit into PC Card rails.Alternatively, two clips or a bracket may be used to secure the module. There are also twomounting holes provided on either side of the ZIF serial connector.Figure 9-2: SB300 Package Views.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 74 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.09.3.2. ConnectorsSee Section 9.2.5 for part number and manufacturer contact details on all connections.9.3.2.1. Antenna ConnectorThe SB300 provides an MMCX type RF connector for the antenna connection. For propermatching the antenna should be 50 ohms with a return loss of 10 dB or better between824 - 894 MHz. System antenna gain should be 0 dB.9.3.2.2. Host (DTE) ConnectorThe SB300 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing. An appropriate FlatFlex Cable is required to make the connection to the host.9.3.3. Power SpecificationsThe SB300 requires +5V DC provided on pins 23-24, and ground provided on pins 23-28.Electrical requirements and current specifications are identified below.Table 9-1:Power and Current SpecificationsPower Supply Requirements +5V DC ±5%Maximum noise DC to 100 kHz: 10 mVppCurrent DrainDeep Sleep: 12 mASleep: 20 mAReceive: 150 mATransmit (Full Power): 850 mA9.3.4. Electrical9.3.4.1. Host (DTE) InterfaceThe SB300 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing. This connectorprovides four interfaces:1. Serial host interface2. Modem control interface3. Power4. Status line interfaceThe connector pinouts are specified in Table 9-2, and electrical characteristics are specified inTable 9-3 Serial Interface Electrical Characteristics. Signal types are with respect to themodem (DCE).
User’s Guide SB300 Product Description2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 75Table 9-2:Host Interface Connector PinoutsPin Number Pin Label Type Description1\DCD Output Data Carrier Detect2RxD Output Receive Data3TxD Input Transmit Data4\DTR Input Data Terminal Ready5GND Ground Ground6\DSR Output Data Set Ready7\RTS Input Ready To Send8\CTS Output Clear To Send9\RI Output Ring Indicator10 \RESET Hardware Reset11 Reserved Leave unconnected12 \SHDN Input Graceful modem shutdown.13 \STATUS_OUT1 Output Power + RF Channel Status14 \STATUS_OUT2 Output Transmitter15 \STATUS_OUT3 Output Power Down OK16 STATUS_IN1 Input17 STATUS_IN2 Input18 STATUS_IN3 Input19 STATUS_IN4 Input20 - 22 Unused Allowed to float23 – 24 VBAT Input +5V25 – 28 GND Ground Ground29 Unused Allowed to float30 Reserved Leave unconnectedTable 9-3:Serial Interface Electrical CharacteristicsCharacteristic Min.(V) Max.(V)Input Low Voltage -0.3 0.8Input High Voltage 2.5 5.0Output High Voltage (Ioh=400 µA) 2.4 –Output Low Voltage (Iol=3.2 mA) –0.5Serial Port InterfaceThe serial port pins comprise a standard set of serial data and handshaking lines. All signals arenegative assertion, HCMOS logic compatible. These signals must be terminated properly if theyare not used. Unused input signals must be pulled to the appropriate in-active state through aresistor (10k). Unused output signals may be left unterminated. If a signal may have use as aninput or an output (I/O) then treat it as an input for termination purposes.Hardware handshaking should be enabled using \CTS and \RTS as the primary flow controlsignals. The remaining handshaking lines (\DCD, \DTR, \DSR, and \RI) are, strictly speaking, notneeded; however they are desirable for TCP/IP stack usage and are supported for any applicationsthat may require them.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 76 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0Operation in each mode is as follows:• \RTS, \CTSUsed as standard hardware flow control lines.• \DTRIndicates to the modem that the host device is active. This line may also be configured toswitch the modem from data to command state or reset the modem (AT&D), and to enablehost wake-up. See the \RI description below.• \DCDIs asserted while online with an active session.• \DSRAlways active when the modem is on; it is tied to logic GND.• \RICurrent application: The R1.0.1 firmware release does not use the \RI signal. It remainsinactive.Future application: If \DTR is inactive (high), \RI toggles when there is data for the host.This may be used to wake-up the host.The serial port should be configured for 8-data bits, no parity bits, and 1-stop bit. Although thecurrent firmware release (R1.0.1) is fixed at 19200 bps, the eventual default DTE configurationwill auto-baud to the host serial baud rate (based on speed of the ‘A’ in an AT command). Hostdata rates of up to 115,200 bps will be supported. AT commands may be used to fix the baud ratefrom 110 bps to 115,200 bps.In command state, a terminal emulation program may be used to communicate with the modemand change the configuration.Modem Control InterfaceModem control is comprised of two inputs:1. \SHDN: Graceful ShutdownThis is an active low input.When activated this signal instructs the modem to de-register from the network, andpower down. When this activity is completed the \STATUS_OUT3 line is driven low(on) indicating to the host that power may be safely removed from the device.The modem must be powered down or reset before it is again ready for use.2. \RESET: Hardware ResetThis is a hardware reset of the modem. This input should be externally pulled high anddriven low to reset.Status Signal InterfaceStatus OutputsThere are three status outputs provided. These are active low and defined as follows:1. \STATUS_OUT1: Power, RF Channel Status• Permanently low (on) when power is on but no CDPD channel is visible. Thisoutput is high (off) when the modem goes into logic sleep.• Pulses low (on) once per second with 10% duty cycle if modem is locked onto aCDPD channel.• Pulses low (on) twice per second with 10% duty cycle if modem is registered on aCDPD channel.2. \STATUS_OUT2: Transmitter• Low (on) when the transmitter is keyed.
User’s Guide SB300 Product Description2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 773. \STATUS_OUT3: Power Down OK• When low (on), this indicates it is safe to remove power to the modem. This worksin concert with the \SHDN signal noted above.Status InputsThere are four TTL-level status input lines provided. There are currently no features that use theseinputs. They are managed within the modem and may be left floating.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 78 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 799.4. SB302 SpecificationsPart number 11000439.4.1. Mechanical9.4.1.1. Physical DescriptionThe SB302 comes as a board stack of two circuitboards. It includes a 16-pin, 0.1” dual-row header forthe host interface and an MMCX style RF connector for the antenna. Dimensions in millimetresare as follows:Figure 9-3: Physical dimensions shown in inches [mm]. Figure 9-4: Assembly View.9.4.2. ConnectorsSee Section 9.2.5 for part number and manufacturer contact details on all connections.9.4.2.1. Antenna ConnectorThe SB302 provides an MMCX type RF connector for the antenna connection. For propermatching the antenna should be 50 ohms with a return loss of 10 dB or better between824 - 894 MHz. System antenna gain should be 0 dB.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 80 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.09.4.2.2. Host (DTE) ConnectorThe SB302 provides a single (2 x 8) 16-pin connector.9.4.3. Power SpecificationsThe SB302 requires +5V provided on pins 1 and 2, and ground provided on pins 3 and 4.Electrical requirements and current specifications are identified below.Table 9-4:Power and Current SpecificationsPower Supply Requirements +5V DC ±5%Maximum noise DC to 100 kHz: 10 mVppCurrent DrainDeep Sleep: 12 mASleep: 20 mAReceive: 150 mATransmit (Full Power): 850 mA9.4.4. Electrical9.4.4.1. Host (DTE) InterfaceThe SB302 provides a single 16-pin connector that provides four interfaces:1. Serial host interface2. Modem control interface3. Power4. Status line interfaceThe connector pinouts are specified in Table 9-5, and electrical characteristics are specified inTable 9-6 Serial Interface Electrical Characteristics. Signal types are with respect to themodem (DCE).Table 9-5:Host Interface Connector PinoutsPin Number Pin Label Type Description1 – 2 VBAT Input +5V3 – 4 GND Ground Ground5TxD Input Transmit Data6RxD Output Receive Data7\DTR Input Data Terminal Ready8\DCD Output Data Carrier Detect9\DSR Output Data Set Ready10 \CTS Output Clear To Send11 \RTS Input Ready To Send12 \RI Output Ring Indicator13 \SHDN Input Graceful modem shutdown.14 \STATUS_OUT1 Output Power + RF Channel Status15 \STATUS_OUT2 Output Transmitter16 \STATUS_OUT3 Output Power Down OK
User’s Guide SB302 Product Description2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 81Table 9-6:Serial Interface Electrical CharacteristicsCharacteristic Min.(V) Max.(V)Input Low Voltage -0.3 0.8Input High Voltage 2.5 5.0Output High Voltage (Ioh=400 µA) 2.4 –Output Low Voltage (Iol=3.2 mA) –0.5Serial Port InterfaceThe serial port pins comprise a standard set of serial data and handshaking lines. All signals arenegative assertion, HCMOS logic compatible. These signals must be terminated properly if theyare not used. Unused input signals must be pulled to the appropriate in-active state through aresistor (10k). Unused output signals may be left unterminated. If a signal may have use as aninput or an output (I/O) then treat it as an input for termination purposes.Hardware handshaking should be enabled using \CTS and \RTS as the primary flow controlsignals. The remaining handshaking lines (\DCD, \DTR, \DSR, and \RI) are, strictly speaking, notneeded; however they are desirable for TCP/IP stack usage and are supported for any applicationsthat may require them. Operation in each mode is as follows:• \RTS, \CTSUsed as standard hardware flow control lines.• \DTRIndicates to the modem that the host device is active. This line may also be configured toswitch the modem from data to command state or reset the modem (AT&D), and to enablehost wake-up. See the RI description below.• \DCDIs asserted while online with an active session.• \DSRAlways active when the modem is on; it is tied to logic GND.• \RICurrent application: The R1.0.1 firmware release does not use the \RI signal. It remainsinactive.Future application: If \DTR is inactive (high), \RI toggles when there is data for the host.This may be used to wake-up the host.The serial port should be configured for 8-data bits, no parity bits, and 1-stop bit. Although thecurrent firmware release (R1.0.1) is fixed at 19200 bps, the eventual default DTE configurationwill auto-baud to the host serial baud rate (based on speed of the ‘A’ in an AT command). Hostdata rates of up to 115,200 bps will be supported. AT commands may be used to fix the baud ratefrom 110 bps to 115,200 bps.In command state, a terminal emulation program may be used to communicate with the modemand change the configuration.Modem Control InterfaceModem control is comprised of one input:1. \SHDN: Graceful ShutdownThis is an active low input.When activated this signal instructs the modem to de-register from the network, andpower down. When this activity is completed the \STATUS_OUT3 line is driven low(on) indicating to the host that power may be removed from the device.The modem must be powered down and restarted before it is again ready for use.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 82 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0Status Signal InterfaceStatus OutputsThere are three status outputs provided. These are active low and defined as follows:1. \STATUS_OUT1: Power, RF Channel Status• Permanently low (on) when power is on but no CDPD channel is visible. Thisoutput is high (off) when the modem goes into logic sleep.• Pulses low (on) once per second with 10% duty cycle if modem is locked onto aCDPD channel.• Pulses low (on) twice per second with 10% duty cycle if modem is registered on aCDPD channel.2. \STATUS_OUT2: Transmitter• Low (on) when the transmitter is keyed.3. \STATUS_OUT3: Power Down OK• When low, (on) this indicates it is safe to remove power to the modem. This works inconcert with the \SHDN signal noted above.
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 839.5. SB320 SpecificationsPart number 11000339.5.1. Mechanical9.5.1.1. Physical DescriptionThe SB320 comes in a Type III package, and includesa 30-pin, 0.5mm pitch ZIF connector for the hostinterface, a 13-pin I/O connector for the wirelineinterface, a MMCX connector for the antenna, and a status LED. Dimensions in millimetres are asfollows:Figure 9-5: SB320 Physical Dimensions [mm].9.5.1.2. MountingThe SB320 uses an industry standard Type III frame-kit, and as such will fit into PC Card rails.Alternatively, two clips or a bracket may be used to secure the module. There are also twomounting holes provided on either side of the ZIF serial connector.Figure 9-6: SB320 Package Views.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 84 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.09.5.2. ConnectorsSee Section 9.2.5 for part number and manufacturer contact details on all connections.9.5.2.1. Antenna ConnectorThe SB320 provides an MMCX type RF connector for the antenna connection. For propermatching the antenna should be 50 ohms with a return loss of 10 dB or better between824 - 894 MHz. System antenna gain should be 0 dB.9.5.2.2. Host (DTE) ConnectorThe SB320 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing. An appropriate FlatFlex Cable is required to make the connection to the host.9.5.2.3. Wireline ConnectorThe SB320 provides a single 13-pin I/O connector next to the antenna connector on the sideopposite the host (DTE) connector. This connector may require custom cabling.The SB320 PSTN Load Number (5B) is shown on the back label.9.5.3. Power SpecificationsThe SB320 requires +5V DC provided on pins 23-24, and ground provided on pins 23-28.Electrical requirements and current specifications are identified below.Table 9-7:Power and Current SpecificationsPower Supply Requirements +5V DC ±5%Maximum noise dc to 100 kHz: 10 mVppCurrent Drain Wireline Mode Inactive: 20 mATransmit: 220 mACurrent Drain CSC Mode Receive: 190 mATransmit (Full Power): 850 mACurrent Drain CDPD ModeDeep Sleep: 35 mASleep: 45 mAReceive: 190 mATransmit (Full Power): 760 mA9.5.4. Electrical9.5.4.1. Host (DTE) InterfaceThe SB320 provides a single 30-pin ZIF connector with 0.5mm pin spacing. This connectorprovides four interfaces:1. Serial host interface2. Modem control interface3. Power4. Status line interface
User’s Guide SB320 Product Description2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 85The connector pinouts are specified in Table 9-8, and electrical characteristics are specified inTable 9-9 Serial Interface Electrical Characteristics. Signal types are with respect to themodem (DCE).Table 9-8:Host Interface Connector PinoutsPin Number Pin Label Type Description1\DCD Output Data Carrier Detect2RxD Output Receive Data3TxD Input Transmit Data4\DTR Input Data Terminal Ready5GND Ground Ground6\DSR Output Data Set Ready7\RTS Input Ready To Send8\CTS Output Clear To Send9\RI Output Ring Indicator10 \RESET Hardware Reset11 Reserved Leave unconnected12 \SHDN Input Graceful modem shutdown.13 \STATUS_OUT1 Output Power + RF Channel Status14 \STATUS_OUT2 Output Transmitter15 \STATUS_OUT3 Output Power Down OK16 STATUS_IN1 Input17 STATUS_IN2 Input18 STATUS_IN3 Input19 STATUS_IN4 Input20 – 22 Unused Allowed to float23 – 24 VBAT Input +5V25 – 28 GND Ground Ground29 Unused Allowed to float30 Reserved Leave unconnectedTable 9-9:Serial Interface Electrical CharacteristicsCharacteristic Min.(V) Max.(V)Input Low Voltage -0.3 0.8Input High Voltage 2.5 5.0Output High Voltage (Ioh=400 µA) 2.4 –Output Low Voltage (Iol=3.2 mA) –0.5Serial Port InterfaceThe serial port pins comprise a standard set of serial data and handshaking lines. All signals arenegative assertion, HCMOS logic compatible. These signals must be terminated properly if theyare not used. Unused input signals must be pulled to the appropriate in-active state through aresistor (10k). Unused output signals may be left unterminated. If a signal may have use as aninput or an output (I/O) then treat it as an input for termination purposes.Hardware handshaking should be enabled using \CTS and \RTS as the primary flow controlsignals. The remaining handshaking lines (\DCD, \DTR, \DSR, and \RI) are, strictly speaking, notneeded; however they are desirable for TCP/IP stack usage and are supported for any applicationsthat may require them.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 86 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0Operation in each mode is as follows:• \RTS, \CTSUsed as standard hardware flow control lines.• \DTRIndicates to the modem that the host device is active. This line may also be configured toswitch the modem from data to command state or reset the modem (AT&D), and to enablehost wake-up. See the RI description below.• \DCDIs asserted in CDPD mode while online with an active session. Behaviour options in CSCand Wireline modes are set with the command AT&C.• \DSRAlways active when the modem is on; it is tied to logic GND.• \RIIn Wireline and CSC modes, this line toggles when there is an incoming call (the telephone isringing).In CDPD modeCurrent application: The R1.0.1 firmware release for CDPD does not use the \RI signal. Itremains inactive.Future application: If \DTR is inactive (high), \RI toggles when there is data for the host.This may be used to wake-up the host.The serial port should be configured for 8-data bits, no parity bits, and 1-stop bit. Although thecurrent firmware release (R1.0.1) is fixed at 19200 bps, the eventual default DTE configurationwill auto-baud to the host serial baud rate (based on speed of the ‘A’ in an AT command). Hostdata rates of up to 115,200 bps will be supported. AT commands may be used to fix the baud ratefrom 110 bps to 115,200 bps.In Circuit-Switched mode data state and any mode’s command state, a terminal emulationprogram may be used to communicate with the modem and change the configuration.Modem Control InterfaceModem control is comprised of two inputs:1. \SHDN: Graceful ShutdownThis is an active low input.When activated this signal instructs the modem to de-register from the network, andpower down. When this activity is completed the \STATUS_OUT3 line is driven low(on) indicating to the host that power may be removed from the device.The modem must be powered down or reset before it is again ready for use.2. \RESET: Hardware ResetThis is a hardware reset of the modem. This input should be externally pulled high anddriven low to reset.Status Signal InterfaceStatus OutputsThere are three status outputs provided. These are active low and defined as follows:1. \STATUS_OUT1: Power, RF Channel Status• Permanently low (on) when power is on but no cellular channel is acquired. Thisoutput is high (off) when the modem is in CDPD and goes into logic sleep.• Pulses low once per second with 10% duty cycle if modem has acquired a cellularchannel.• Pulses low twice per second with 10% duty cycle if modem is registered on a CDPDchannel.
User’s Guide SB320 Product Description2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 872. \STATUS_OUT2: Transmitter• Low (on) when the transmitter is keyed.3. \STATUS_OUT3: Power Down OK (not yet implemented)• When low (on), this indicates it is safe to remove power to the modem. This worksin concert with the \SHDN signal noted above.Status InputsThere are four TTL-level status input lines provided. There are currently no features that use theseinputs. They are managed within the modem and may be left floating.9.5.4.2. Wireline and Voice InterfaceThe SB320 provides a 13-pin I/O connector for its wireline interface. The connector is positionedon the opposite end of the housing from the serial host (DTE) connector. This connector providesthese interfaces:1. Telephone Line Interface2. Status Outputs 1 and 2The connector pinouts are specified in Table 9-10. Specific configuration detail for the differentinterfaces follow. Signal types are with respect to the modem (DCE).Table 9-10:Pinout of Wireline and Voice ConnectorPin number Signal Name Type Description1Reserved Leave Unconnected2SPKR– Output Speaker Interface negative3SPKR+ Output Speaker Interface positive4 – 7 Reserved Input Leave Unconnected8\STATUS_OUT1 Output Power + RF Channel Status9\STATUS_OUT2 Output Transmitter10 GROUND Ground Signal Ground11 Reserved Leave Unconnected12 RING Input Wireline Connection13 TIP Input Wireline ConnectionTelephone Line InterfacePSTN Line ConnectionThe telephone line interface consists of two signals: TIP and RING. These two lines should berouted via a twisted-pair wire to a panel-mounted RJ-11 connector. The PSTN Load Number (5B)is noted on the back label of the modem.Note that is provides connection to analogue telephone lines only. Connection to digital PBXlines is not supported.Speaker OutputThe speaker output is a differential signal used to interface to a speaker amplifier. The outputsignal is AC-coupled 2 Vp-p nominal into a 150 ohm load. In circuit-switched and wireline datamodes this signal is used to indicate call progress.Status OutputsThese signals are the status outputs from the host interface brought out on the wireline/voiceconnector. They are duplicates of the signals described in Section 9.5.4.1 above.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 88 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.09.5.5. SB320 Communication Mode Specifications9.5.5.1. Wireline SpecificationsWireline Data CCITT V.34: 33600 – 2400 bpsCCITT V.32bis:14400, 12000, 7200 bpsCCITT V.32: 9600, 4800 bpsCCITT V.22bis:2400 bpsCCITT V.22: 1200 bpsCCITT V.21: 300 bpsBell 212A/103: 1200, 300 bpsV.42 error correction (LAPM and MNP)V.42bis and MNP5 data compression9.5.5.2. Circuit-Switched Data SpecificationsCSC Data CCITT V.34: 16800 – 2400 bpsCCITT V.32bis:7200 bpsCCITT V.32: 9600, 4800 bpsCCITT V.22bis:2400 bpsCCITT V.22: 1200 bpsCCITT V.21: 300 bpsBell 212A/103: 1200, 300 bpsV.42 error correction (LAPM and MNP)V.42bis and MNP5 data compressionETCCSC General IS-919.5.5.3. CDPD SpecificationsCDPD Version CDPD 1.1
2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 8910. Multipurpose Interface Board10.1. IntroductionThe Multipurpose Interface Board (MIB) is adevelopment aid to facilitate testing and configurationof the SB300 Series modems by allowingcommunication using a standard RS-232 serialconnection. It also provides monitoring LEDs, testpoints, connections for a protocol analyzer, andconnections for wireline (PSTN) hookup.There is also support for the SB220 and SB301modem. These supports are provided for factory level testing only and are beyond the scope ofthis document. The SB302 shares several connectors and signal controls with the SB301.NOTEAlthough the MIB provides support for the full SB Series of modems, it is not intendedto support more than one modem at a time. Attaching more than one modem candamage circuitry.For a quick initial setup go to Section 10.8. To get a fuller understanding of the board’sconnections and capabilities sections are provided as follows:• Section 10.2 Board Description with schematic and parts layout reference.• Section 10.3 Power Supply including voltage control and supplying power from a host device.• Section 10.4 Connections describing the various host, modem, and analyzer connectors.• Section 10.5 Jumpers details options and setups.• Section 10.6 Serial Breakout Box describes cross wiring correction and signal checking• Section 10.7 Test Points identifies what is offered and where to find it10.1.1. FeaturesThe MIB offers these features:• Supports SB220, SB300, SB302, SB320• RS232 to 5V HCMOS conversion• Interception of 5V HCMOS control signals from host to modem to verify syntax and levels• Intercepted signals are converted to RS-232 for observation by standard serial port• Supports wireline access• Serial port breakout box to resolve cabling difficulties• Serial port status LEDs• Status line LEDs and pullup/down• Current, DISC and KEY test points• Reset button for SB300 and SB320• Annunciator to hear dial tones• Comm Analyzer connectors - 25 pin protocol analyzer• Uses wall adapter for power
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 90 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.010.2. Board Description10.2.1. SchematicSee the following two insert pages.10.2.2. Parts LayoutSee the third following insert page.
User’s Guide Multipurpose Interface Board2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 9110.3. Power SupplyThe MIB requires a 12V DC, 1 Amp power supply. An AC adapter (part number 1900000) isprovided with the OEM Developer’s Toolkit.This power is converted by the MIB into the 5V (and 7V for the SB220) supply needed by themodems. It is not designed to support more than one modem connected to the MIB at any time.There is a power switch on the MIB that controls delivery of both the 5V and 7V supplies to themodem connectors but DOES NOT control the 5V supply to the MIB’s own logic. The MIB’slogic is on whenever the 12V supply is connected.The normal initial setup has jumper J21 (Power Select) set on pins 1 and 2 which will deliverpower to the modem from the MIB’s power source.10.3.1. Voltage AdjustmentA trim-pot is provided to make fine adjustments to the 5V supply, accommodating cable loss andallowing you to test the modem under various power conditions.NOTEAt this time the 5V power adjustment will also affect the 5V supply to the MIB’s ownlogic. Extreme settings may cause failures of the MIB that should not be interpreted asfailures of the modem.There is protection circuitry intended to prevent the trim-pot from setting values high enough todamage the MIB or modem. The range is approximately 5V +5%/–10%.The 5V supply can be measured at test point TP3 or at pin 1 of the power select jumper (J21).The 7V supply does not have adjustment controls.10.3.2. Using Power from Host (DTE)For users testing a host connection to a SB302, it is possible to power the modem from the host(DTE) device rather than the MIB. To do this, connect the host to the 2x8-pin block(J9 SB301/302 To Host) and set jumper J21 (Power Select) to pins 2 – 3 (+5V Host).At this time, there is no provision for a similar host connection to the SB300 or SB320. Thesemodems do however derive power from the source set by jumper J21 (Power Select) so this mustbe set to pins 1 – 2 for normal operation. A workaround to allow host power to supply the modemis to patch the host power to pins 1 and 2 of the SB301/302 host connector block (J9) and set thepower select jumper (J21) to pins 2 – 3.The MIB’s 12V power supply must remain on to deliver power to the RS-232 / HCMOSconversion logic. The DTE/DCE serial lines are converted to RS-232, made available at the SerialBreakout Box, and then converted back to HCMOS at each end.10.4. ConnectionsThis section provides information on the use of the various connectors on the MIB.10.4.1. PC Host (DTE) RS-232 Serial ConnectionThere are two 9-pin D connectors (female) provided on the MIB to connect to standard RS-232serial ports on a host terminal, usually a PC.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 92 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.0PC Serial PortThis connection is for a PC host device running a terminal emulation program. Communication toand from this port is delivered via the Serial Breakout Box, to and from the modem.Debug PortThe second 9-pin D connector is for factory level testing only.10.4.2. Host (DTE) Connection for SB302An alternative to the 9-pin RS-232 serial connector (PC Serial Port) is provided for connecting ahost (DTE) device to a SB302 via the 2x8-pin block at J9 (SB301/302 To Host). This connectorallows you to insert the MIB between the host and the modem for testing and monitoringcommunications.Although there is not currently an equivalent 30-pin ZIF host connector for the SB300 and SB320,the pins of this connector are also delivered to the SB300 / SB320 modem connectors.Serial SignalsThe MIB converts the serial communication signals to RS-232 level, presents them at the SerialBreakout Box and then converts them back to HCMOS level before passing them to the DTE/DCEends.NOTE: In order for this signal conversion to work, the host device MUST supply +5V on pins 1and 2. It is this power which enables the conversion logic on the MIB for the host side.Input SignalsThe modem’s three \STATUS_OUT signals are passed directly between the modem and the host.They can also be monitored by the three LEDs (SO1, SO2, SO3)Output SignalsThe host Shutdown signal is passed to the modem via an enabling jumper (HOSTSHDN) on themain jumper block. With the jumper removed, the shutdown signal is blocked from reaching themodem.Power from the host can be used to power the modem by setting jumper J21 (Power Select) to pins2 –3 (+5V Host). With the jumper in the original position (pins 1 – 2) the modem is powered fromthe MIB. See Section 10.3.2 for details.10.4.3. Protocol Analyzer ConnectionTwo 25-pin D connectors are available to connect a protocol analyzer in the serial signal path.The female connector is on the PC side of the Serial Breakout Box; the male connector is on themodem side.To monitor the communication signals between the host and modem, simply connect the analyzerto the MIB.10.4.4. SB300 / SB320 Modem ConnectionBoth the SB300 and SB320 use a 30-pin ZIF connector. The connector uses the Flat Flex Cableribbon (Sierra Wireless part number 2000068) provided with the OEM Developer’s Toolkit.The connection provides all defined pinouts.Use care when attaching the ribbon to the connector. There is a cover clamp that hinges up toopen the connector. Slide the ribbon into the connector with the insulated (coloured) side of theribbon facing up. Close the connector clamp by pressing down at the ends rather than the centreof clamp. The modem has an identical clamp connector.
User’s Guide Multipurpose Interface Board2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 93Serial SignalsThe MIB converts the serial communication signals to RS-232 level, presents them at the SerialBreakout Box and then passes them to the DTE/DCE ends.The DCE (modem) side of this conversion can be disabled, effectively disconnecting the modemfrom the MIB by placing a jumper on the MODEM DISBL pins of the main jumper block. Thiscan be useful if you are using a protocol analyzer to emulate the DCE device.Input SignalsThe 5V power comes from the MIB via the jumper J21 (Power Select). Pins 1 – 2 will connect theMIB adjustable 5V supply.All other input signals (Shutdown (\SHDN) and status inputs 1 – 4) to the modem are suppliedfrom the main jumper block. Placing a jumper on the pins will make the signal active.Output SignalsThe three modem \STATUS_OUT signals are indicated by the three LEDs (SO1, SO2, SO3).These are lit when the output signal is active (low).10.4.5. SB302 Modem ConnectionThe SB302 uses a 2x8 pin connector block. A strap with connectors at each end (partnumber 2000067) is provided with the OEM Developer’s Kit. This strap allows connection of themodem to the MIB at J7 (To SB301/302).Serial SignalsThe MIB converts the serial communication signals to RS-232 level, presents them at the SerialBreakout Box and then passes them to the DTE/DCE ends.The DCE (modem) side of this conversion can be disabled, effectively disconnecting the modemfrom the MIB by placing a jumper on the MODEM DISBL pins of the main jumper block. Thiscan be useful if you are using a protocol analyzer to emulate the DCE device.Input SignalsThe 5V power and Shutdown (\SHDN) signal to the modem can be supplied from either the MIBor the Host (DTE) connection (not the PC Host RS-232 connection).Modem power can be drawn from either the MIB or the host (DTE) by setting the jumper J21(Power Select). Pins 1 – 2 will connect the MIB adjustable 5V supply. Pins 2 –3 (+5V Host) willconnect the host power to the modem. See Section 10.3.2 for details.The Shutdown (\SHDN) signal must originate from the Host (DTE) connection (not the PC HostRS-232 connection). It can be enabled or disabled via a jumper (HOSTSHDN). With the jumperconnector in, the shutdown signal will be passed to the modem. With the jumper removed, thesignal is blocked.The Shutdown signal can also be originated at the MIB using the SB3XX SHDN jumper on themain jumper block. Placing a jumper on the pins will make the signal active (low).Output SignalsThe three modem \STATUS_OUT signals are passed directly between the modem and the Host(DTE) connector. Their status is also indicated by the three LEDs (SO1, SO2, SO3). These are litwhen the output signal is active (low).10.4.6. SB220 Modem ConnecitonThis is provided for factory testing of older model modems not detailed in this manual.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 94 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.010.5. JumpersThere are five jumper blocks provided on the MIB. Two of these are for the SB220, which is notcovered in this document. The three blocks used with the SB300 Series modems are summarizedbelow and discussed in detail in following sections.The main jumper block is located next to the modem power switch and has eight pairs of pins.When the jumper is connected it has these functions.• ST IN1 Activate the input signals (not currently implement• ST IN2 on the modems).• ST IN3• ST IN4• \SHDN Activate the \SHDN signal to the modem.• HOSTSHDN Enable the \SHDN signal from the SB301/302 host connector.• TP CTRL Enable test point TP3.• MODEM DIS Disable the RS-232 serial connection from the modem.There is also a 3-pin jumper block for power selection. A jumper MUST connect the centrepin (2) to one of the outside pins (1 or 3) to enable power to the modem.• 1 – 2 MIB power is used.• 2 – 3 Host power (SB301/302 host connector) is used.A 2-pin jumper block is available to enable or disable the built-in speaker. When the jumper isconnected, the speaker is enabled.10.5.1. Main Jumper BlockThe main jumper block (J24) has eight pairs of pins, all labelled. NOTE that a correcting label hasbeen applied to reverse the labels for \SHDN and HOSTSHDN.The first four pairs are to activate the four input signals of the SB320 (not currently implementedby the modem). Two pairs are for direct MIB activation of the Shutdown (\SHDN) signal to themodems and to enable the SB302 host interface to trigger this signal. There is one pair of pins foractivating TP3 and the last pair is to disable the modem side of the RS-232 / HCMOS serial signalconversion.10.5.1.1. ST INx – Status InputsPlacing a jumper on one of these pins will force the signal active. At this time none of the statusinput signals are used by the SB320 or SB300.10.5.1.2. \SHDN – ShutdownThis jumper forces the modem’s Shutdown (\SHDN) input active (low). Placing a jumper on thispair of pins forces the signal on. This will work regardless of the jumper setting of the hostshutdown enable.10.5.1.3. HOSTSHDN – Host Shutdown EnableThis jumper enables the Shutdown (\SHDN) signal from the SB301/302 host interface to bepassed to the modem. Without the jumper installed, the signal will not reach the modem. Thisjumper does not activate the signal; only allow the signal from the host connector to be passed tothe modem.If the SB301/302 host connector is not being used, this jumper should be left open (notconnected). This will prevent a floating signal from the host connector block from reaching themodem.This jumper in independent of the forced-shutdown jumper (\SHDN).
User’s Guide Multipurpose Interface Board2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 9510.5.1.4. TP CTRLTest Point 5 is tied to this jumper. When the jumper is removed, the test point delivers GND;when the jumper is inserted it delivers the MIB’s 5V DC, independent of the modem’s powersupply.10.5.1.5. MODEM DISBLPlacing a jumper on this pair of pins will disable the MIB’s conversion of the modem serialconnection from HCMOS level to RS-232 level, effectively disconnecting the modem from theSerial Breakout Box and the host (both PC and direct SB302 host connection). Power and thecontrol signals \SHDN and \STATUS_OUT1 – 3 remain intact.10.5.2. Power SelectA 3-pin block is provided to select the source of the +5V power supply to the modems. Placingthe jumper on pins 1 and 2 will connect the MIB’s regulated +5V supply. Placing the jumper onpins 2 and 3 will connect the modem to power from the SB301/302 Host connection and removethe trim pot.The modem power switch comes AFTER the power selection jumper and can be used to controlpower to the modems regardless of the source of the power.10.5.3. SPK EN – Speaker EnableA 2-pin block is provided to allow you to disable the speaker in situations where you would preferto mute the output. Placing the jumper on the pins will enable the SB320 to drive the speaker,provided the SB320 I/O connector is in place.The SB300 and SB302 modems do not provide speaker output. The SB320 speaker output isdriven through the wireline connector (SB320 I/O).10.6. Serial Breakout BoxOne of the main functions of the MIB is to provide a means of monitoring the serial connectionbetween a host and the modem. The MIB converts HCMOS level signals at the modem (and atthe SB301/302 Host connection) to RS-232 level for monitoring on the LEDs and with a protocolanalyzer.In addition, the two rows of pins on each side of the DIP switch provide test points andconnections to each individual signal. This allows you to cross connect pins to correct cabling orconnector faults.10.6.1. DIP SwitchThe DIP switch is used to make or break the connection between the host and modem for each ofthe serial communication signals. When switched to the open side, the connection is broken.Should there be a cross connection error in the host / modem serial connection, switch off theaffected signals and use the breakout pins to bridge the signal correctly.The last two switches are not connected.10.6.2. Serial Connection IndicatorsThe LED indicators show the status of the serial communication on the modem side of thebreakout box. Red indicates an inactive signal, green indicates an active one. All LEDs arelabelled.
The Hardware View SB300 SeriesPage 96 Proprietary and Confidential 2110059 Rev 1.010.7. Test PointsThere are six test points plus a pair of pins for current measurement. The sixth test point is notused at this time.10.7.1. TP1 DISCThis test point receives its signal from pin 30 of the SB320 modem connector and pin 1 of theSB320 I/O connector. It presents the discriminator output of the radio modem.10.7.2. TP2 KEYAll modem connectors provide the transmitter key indicator here. This signal is also indicated bythe S02 status LED.10.7.3. TP3 5V AdjustedThe power output after the 5V ADJ trim pot can be measured here.10.7.4. TP4 5V SettingThis test point is for factory presets only.10.7.5. TP5 Debug for 5V / GNDThis is connected to the TP CTRL jumper of the main jumper block and is available for debugtesting the MIB’s power supply. When the jumper is removed, the test point delivers GND; whenthe jumper is inserted it delivers the MIB’s 5V DC, independent of the modem’s power supply.10.7.6. TP6 UnusedConnected to the SB320 pins 20, 21, and 22, these signals are currently unused.10.7.7. Current MeasurementTwo pins are made available at J26 (Current Measurement) to allow calculation of the currentdrawn by the modem. The calculation is based on V = I x R, where V is the measured voltage andR is a known resistance (0.1 ohm). This formula reduces to I = 10 x V.Measure the Voltage across the two pins. This is typically greater than 1 mV and less than 90 mV.The current being drawn, in mA, is equivalent to 10 times the voltage measured in mV.10.8. Reset ButtonThe reset button sends the reset control signal to the SB300 and SB320 connectors. The SB302does not support a reset input signal.
User’s Guide Multipurpose Interface Board2110059 Rev 1.0 Proprietary and Confidential Page 9710.9. Initial SetupAs shipped the MIB is configured as follows:• Serial communication DIP switches are closed and the two spare switches are left open.• Power select is on pins 1 and 2 to use MIB power for the modem.• The following main jumpers are connected:• ST IN1 – ST IN4 (Status Inputs to SB320) These are unused currently and simplyprovide a “parking space” for jumpers which can be used as needed elsewhere.• TP CTRL allowing for measurement of the MIB’s 5V power supply.• The speaker is enabled.The 5V power adjustment is set in the factory for 5V.

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