Inseego NVWFB2C PCS CDMA MODEM User Manual FB200C Windows Guide

Novatel Wireless Inc PCS CDMA MODEM FB200C Windows Guide

USERS MANUAL

User GuideFreedom Box 200CTMWireless Ruggedized Modem For Windows 2000 and XPWarning: You must install the modem software before inserting the FB200C modem.
Notice: Restricted Proprietary Information© Copyright Novatel Wireless Inc. (2003)The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of Novatel Wireless Inc. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction of this manual in any form without the expressed written approval of Novatel Wireless Inc. is strictly prohibited. This manual may not, in whole or in part, be copied, reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic or magnetic storage medium without the written consent of a duly authorized officer of Novatel Wireless Inc.The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Novatel Wireless Inc. unless such commitment is expressly given in a covering document.Novatel Wireless Inc. makes no warranties, either expressed or implied, regarding this document, its merchantability, or its fitness, for any particular purpose.Microsoft® and Windows® are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other brand names and product names used in this document are trade names, service marks, trademarks, or registered trademarks of their respective owners.The Novatel Wireless logo and Freedom Box 200C are trademarks of Novatel Wireless, Inc.Produced in the USA.
Table of Contents 3Manual Revision A for WindowsTable of ContentsTable of ContentsTechnical SupportSafety and Regulatory Notices .............................................................................................................. 3Regulatory Notices................................................................................................................................. 3Technical Support .................................................................................................................................. 3System Requirements............................................................................................................................ 3FB200C Overview and Installation............................................................ 5FB200C front panel................................................................................................................................ 5FB200C Rear Panel............................................................................................................................... 6Connecting the power cable .................................................................................................................. 7Installing the Wireless Connection Manager Software on Windows .... 9Uninstalling the Wireless Connection Manager Software .................................................................... 12Getting Started With the Wireless Connection Manager...................... 13Connecting to the Network................................................................................................................... 13Disconnecting From the Network......................................................................................................... 17Quitting the Wireless Connection Manager Application....................................................................... 17System Tray Icons ............................................................................................................................... 18Getting to Know the Wireless Connection Manager for Windows ...... 19The Wireless Connection Manager Main Window ............................................................................... 19The Modem Configuration Window...................................................................................................... 20The Modem Properties Window........................................................................................................... 21The Detailed Status Report Window.................................................................................................... 23The About Wireless Connection Manager Window ............................................................................. 24Additional Menu Commands................................................................................................................ 25TroubleshootingTroubleshooting a Connection Failure ................................................................................................. 27Error Messages.................................................................................................................................... 28Frequently Asked Questions................................................................................................................ 29Index.......................................................................................................... 31
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Technical Support — Manual Revision A for WindowsTechnical SupportSafety and Regulatory NoticesThis product is not to be used in any environment where radio frequency equipment is prohibited or restricted in its use. To ensure that your modem is deactivated you should remove it from your computer under the above conditions.Regulatory NoticesFederal Communications Commission Radio Frequency Interference StatementThis equipment has been certified to comply within the limits of a class B digital device pursuant to part 15 and 24 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential situations. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and, if not properly installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment on and off. You are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna of the television, radio or cordless telephone.• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions.Technical SupportIf you have any questions or comments about your FB200C, please contact the Novatel Wireless Inc. Customer Support team.WWW: http://www.novatelwireless.com/support/index.htmlEmail: support@novatelwireless.comPhone: 1 (888) 888-9231System RequirementsThe following items are required to set up and use your FB200C modem:• Pentium 90 processor or higher.• Windows 2000 or XP•64MB RAM• 16MB hard drive space.
Technical Support — Manual Revision A for Windows• CD-ROM drive.• the Wireless Connection Manager software, included with your FB200C modem, and• a user account, including a User Name and Password, from a network carrier with PCS CDMA 1X service.To purchase a user account, please contact network carrier. For a list of network service provider please email Novatel Wireless at support@novatelwireless.com or call 1 (888) 888-9231.
   7Manual Revision A for WindowsFB200C Overview and InstallationThis section provides an overview of the modem box and installation instructions. FB200C front panelThe FB200C front panel has power, service, and data status indicators and a reset button as shown on Figure 1.Figure 1 FB200C Front PanelIndicator/Button FunctionReset Reset button for the FB200C.Power The power LED indicates power is on when lit.Service The service LED indicates that the FB200C has acquired network service.Data The data LED indicates data activity between the FB200C and the host computer.
8  Manual Revision A for WindowsFB200C Rear PanelThe rear panel of the FB200C is where the power, communication port, and antenna cables are connected. This is shown in Figure 2.Figure 2 FB200C Rear PanelConnector Description12V DC Power cable plugs into this connector. The input supply should be between 10 to 18 Volts DC.Serial RS232 connector for modem main port. When using this port, the modem acts as a AT modem. The Serial port is disconnected when an active USB port is connected. USB USB modem port. When using the USB port, the host computer will have additional modem status information not available when using the serial connector. USB must be used when using Windows Connection Manager.Antenna TNC antennae connector for external mount antennae.
   9Manual Revision A for WindowsConnecting the power cableThe FB200C comes supplied with a power cable as illustrated in Figure 3.Figure 3 Power cableWire Color FunctionalityGreen This wire is the positive terminal for the modem. The modem is designed to be always on when power is applied. Connect the green wire to vehicle IGN (IGNI-TION) if you only want the modem on when vehicle is on. Connect the green wire to an always on fuse protected cir-cuit connection to have modem always on.Black Ground
10  Manual Revision A for Windows
   11Manual Revision A for WindowsInstalling the Wireless Connection Manager Software on WindowsThis section guides you step-by-step through the Wireless Connection Manager for Windows installation procedure. Once you have completed the set up and installation process, you will be able to use your FB200C Modem with your Internet applications.Warning: This application is only supported by Windows 2000 and XPTo install the Wireless Connection Manager onto your laptop or notebook computer:1. Insert the Installation CD into the CD-ROM drive of your desktop computer. Run the installation program WirelessConnectionManagerVx.xx.xx.exe.2. Follow the instructions displayed on screen to begin installing the Wireless Connection Manager software. The Welcome window will appear, shown in Figure 1.Figure 1 Welcome Window
12   Manual Revision A for Windows3. Read the information displayed on screen and click Next to continue. The Novatel Wireless License Agreement will appear.4. Read the agreement and select I read and agree to the above terms. 5. Click Next to continue. The Start Copying Files window will appear, shown in Figure 2.Figure 2 Start Copying Files Window
   13Manual Revision A for Windows6. If you would like to review or change an installation setting, click Back. If you are satisfied with the installation settings click Next to continue. The Installation Complete window will appear, shown in Figure 3.Figure 3 Installation Complete Window7. Click Finish to exit the Installation program. The Install window will appear, shown in Figure 4.Figure 4 Install Window8. Click OK to restart your computer.9. Once your computer has rebooted, make sure the modem is powered on by checking to make sure the Power indicator is ON. Connect the FB200C’s USB cable into the computer’s USB port. Windows will automatically detect and install the necessary modem drivers in order to operate the FB200C modem. 10. When Windows has finished installing the FB200C modem drivers, you can access the Wireless Connection Manager by double-clicking on the shortcut icon that has been placed on your computer’s desktop.
14   Manual Revision A for WindowsUninstalling the Wireless Connection Manager SoftwareTo uninstall the Wireless Connection Manager application, select Start -> Programs -> Novatel Wireless -> Wireless Connection Manager -> Wireless Connection Manager Uninstall. The Uninstall wizard will open, and guide you through removing the Wireless Connection Manager program from your computer or by using the Windows Control panel and selecting "Add or Remove Programs".
   15Manual Revision A for WindowsGetting Started With the Wireless Connection ManagerThe Wireless Connection Manager application allows you to monitor and control the operation of your FB200C modem. This section explains the basic steps required to operate the Wireless Connection Manager for Windows.Connecting to the NetworkIn order to use your Internet applications, your modem must first establish a network connection.To connect to the network:1. Launch the Wireless Connection Manager application by double-clicking the Wireless Connection Manager icon, located on your desktop.2. From the Wireless Connection Manager Main window, click Connect. See Figure 1.Figure 1 Wireless Connection Manager Main Window
16  Manual Revision A for Windows3. If this is the first time you have attempted to connect to the network, the Wireless Connection Manager will walk you through the 5 step activation process. See Figure 2.Figure 2 Welcome Message   4. Click Next. The Activation Information window will appear, as shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 Activation Information Window
   17Manual Revision A for Windows5. Click Next. When the enterprise administrator provides you with the activation code, enter the number as indicated in Figure 4.Figure 4 Activation code window6. Click Next. Enter the phone number and MSID given by the Customer Solutions Advocate as shown in Figure 5.Figure 5 MDN and MSID window
18  Manual Revision A for Windows7. Click Next. The FB200C modem is activated properly when you see the successful activation window as shown in Figure 6. Click Finish to close activation window. Figure 6 successful activation window8. The modem's network connection status will be displayed in the Modem status bar, highlighted in Figure 7.Figure 7 Modem Status BarIf the modem is unable to connect to the network, check the modem’s signal strength as displayed in the Signal Strength status bar. The greater the number of green bars present, the stronger the signal strength. If the signal strength is poor, try changing your location in order to pick up a stronger signal.
   19Manual Revision A for WindowsDisconnecting From the NetworkTo disconnect your modem from the network, click Disconnect from the Wireless Connection Manager Main window, shown in Figure 8.Figure 8 Disconnect ButtonTo disconnect from the network and close the Wireless Connection Manager application, click the  located in the top-right corner of the Wireless Connection Manager Main window.Alternately, you can select Exit from the Modem menu.Quitting the Wireless Connection Manager ApplicationTo quit the Wireless Connection Manager application, click the   located in the top-right corner of the Wireless Connection Manager main window.Alternately, you can select Exit from the File menu, shown in Figure 9.Figure 9 Exit Command
20  Manual Revision A for WindowsThe modem will terminate its network connection, and the Wireless Connection Manager application will shut down.System Tray IconsWhen you launch the Wireless Connection Manager application, a system tray icon will appear in the bottom-right corner of your desktop. These tray icons provide easy access to the Wireless Connection Manager Main window and the modem’s connection status.The following icons indicate the modem’s connection status: - If this icon is visible, the modem is currently connected to the network. - If this icon is visible, the modem is not connected to the network.If the Wireless Connection Manager window is not visible, double-click the tray icon to open it.Alternately, you can control the operation of the Wireless Connection Manager by right-clicking the tray icon and selecting an action from the pop-up menu.
   21Manual Revision A for WindowsGetting to Know the Wireless Connection Manager for WindowsThis section introduces the various windows and menu commands that are contained in the Wireless Connection Manager application for Windows.The Wireless Connection Manager Main WindowWhen you launch the Wireless Connection Manager application for Windows, the Main window will open, shown in Figure 1.Figure 1 Wireless Connection Manager Main WindowThe Wireless Connection Manager main window consists of the following items:Duration Field This field indicates how long the modem has been con-nected to the network.Bytes Sent Field This field indicates the amount of data (bytes) the modem has sent during the current network session.Bytes Received Field This field indicates the amount of data (bytes) the modem has received during the current network ses-sion.Signal Strength Sta-tus BarThis status bar indicates the modem’s signal strength. If adequate signal strength is present, a number of the five bars will be shaded green. Modem Status Bar This status bar displays the modem’s network connec-tion status.
22   Manual Revision A for WindowsThe Modem Configuration WindowTo access the Modem Configuration window, shown in Figure 2, select Configuration from the Modem menu.Figure 2 Modem Configuration WindowThe following fields are displayed in the Modem Configuration window:Network Service Field This value directs the modem to attempt to connect only with your service provide’s network. This is a read-only field and cannot be altered.Receive Next Call As FieldData Only - This value directs the modem to receive the next call as packet data only. This is a read-only field and cannot be altered.Current System Time FieldThis field displays the current system time as displayed on your computer’s desktop.Current CDMA Time FieldThis field displays the time as indicated by the CDMA base station. Show Connection Properties While Con-necting Check BoxSelect this check box if you wish to see the Connection Properties window the next time you attempt to connect to the network.
   23Manual Revision A for WindowsThe Modem Properties WindowTo access the Modem Properties window, select Properties from the Modem menu.Figure 3 Modem Properties WindowThe information contained in this window is useful for Customer Support in diagnosing problems you may experience while using your modem.
24   Manual Revision A for WindowsThe following fields are contained in the Modem Properties window:User Name This field displays your network user name.Mobile Identification NumberThis field displays your modem’s Mobile Identification Number. This number is used by the CDMA base station to identify your modem.ESN (HEX) This field displays your modem’s Electronic Serial Num-ber (ESN). The ESN is a unique number given to each modem as a means of identification.PRL Version This field displays your modem’s Preferred Roaming List (PRL) version. The PRL is a list of networks your modem would prefer to connect with.Firmware Version This field displays the firmware version your modem uses.Hardware Version This field displays the hardware version your modem uses.Modem Type This field displays the type of modem core your modem uses.Manufacturer This field displays the name of the firmware manufactur-ing company.
   25Manual Revision A for WindowsThe Detailed Status Report WindowTo access the Detailed Status Report window, select Detailed Status Report from the Tools menu.The Detailed Status Report window contains two tabs; the General and History tabs.Figure 4 General TabThe General tab, shown in Figure 4, is displayed by default and contains the following items:Modem Status Bar This status bar displays the modem’s network connec-tion status.Total Bytes Trans-ferred FieldThis field displays the total number of bytes, both sent and received, during the current network session.Bytes Sent Field This field displays the total number of bytes sent, during the current network session.Bytes Received Field This field displays the total number of bytes received during the current network session.Date Byte Totals Were Last Cleared FieldThis field displays the date the byte totals were last cleared.
26   Manual Revision A for WindowsThe History tab, shown in Figure 5, displays the date, time, and current modem and network session activities. This tab is useful when attempting to diagnose problems with either your modem or network connection.Figure 5 History TabThe About Wireless Connection Manager WindowTo access the About Wireless Connection Manager window, shown in Figure 6, select About Wireless Connection Manager from the Help menu.Figure 6 About Wireless Connection Manager WindowThis window contains information about the Wireless Connection Manager application, including:•The software version•The date the software was released•The copyright information
   27Manual Revision A for WindowsAdditional Menu CommandsThe following menu commands are also available from the Wireless Connection Manager application. Clear Bytes CommandTo clear the modem’s total bytes counted, select Clear Bytes from the Tools menu.All byte totals counted, either sent or received, by the modem during the current network session will be cleared. The modem’s byte totals are displayed in the General tab of the Detailed Status Report window, shown in Figure 7.Figure 7 Total Bytes CounterAlways on Top CommandTo keep the Wireless Connection Manager window on top of all other windows, select Always on Top from the Window menu, as shown in Figure 8.Figure 8 Always on Top Command
28   Manual Revision A for WindowsNote: Click Always on Top a second time to disable this command. Hide Window CommandTo hide the Wireless Connection Manager window, select Hide Window from the Window menu, as shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 Hide Window CommandThe Wireless Connection Manager window will be minimized to the system tray icon  .Double-click on the icon to re-open the Wireless Connection Manager window.Wireless Connection Manager HelpTo access the online help for the Wireless Connection Manager application, select Wireless Connection Manager Help from the Help menu, as shown in Figure 10. The application will launch the Wireless Connection Manager online help files.Figure 10 Wireless Connection Manager Help Command
Troubleshooting   29Manual Revision A for WindowsTroubleshooting This section provides solutions to problems you may encounter while using your FB200C Modem on a Windows operating system. You can contact Novatel Wireless representative at support@novatelwireless.com or 1 (888) 888-9231 for additional information.Troubleshooting a Connection FailureIf you are unable to establish a network connection, the following suggestions may correct the problem:•Verify that your FB200C modem is powered on and communication port is connected to the computer.•If the Wireless Connection Manager cannot communicate with the modem, exit the Wireless Connection Manager application.  Reset your FB200C Modem by using a thin pen tip to push the reset button. This resets the modem hardware.•Check your modem’s signal strength (displayed on the Wireless Connection Manager Main window). If the signal strength is weak (less than two bars), your modem might be unable to establish a network connection. Try moving to another location in order to pick up a stronger signal.•Launch the Wireless Connection Manager application and try to connect to the network again.
30 Troubleshooting  Manual Revision A for WindowsError MessagesOne of the following messages may be displayed if your modem is unable to register or connect with the Mobile Network.Message SolutionModem Not RespondingThis message may appear if you plug your FB200C modem into the USB port and click on the Wireless Connection Manager shortcut icon before your computer has detected the modem. Click OK on the message window and wait between 15-30 seconds before clicking the shortcut icon. If the message appears a second time, unplug and reconnect the USB port to the modem and wait until your computer detects the modem before clicking the Wireless Connection Manager shortcut icon again.No Service If this message is displayed, there is no service available at this time. The network could be busy or undergoing maintenance. Try connecting to the network at a later time or moving to another location if you are outside the network’s coverage area.Modem is not presentIf this message is displayed, verify that the modem USB cable is plugged in properly. Note: Modem detection is only available when the modem is connected using the USB port.Modem is already in useThis message indicates the modem port is busy. Verify whether your modem has already established a network connection. If the modem is not currently connected to the network, exit the Wireless Connection Manager program, relaunch the application and try a second time to connect to the network.Device firmware incompatibleIf this message appears, your FB200C modem’s firmware is incompatible with your current version of the Wireless Connection Manager software. Please contact Novatel Wireless customer support in order to upgrade your modem’s firmware.There was no answerIf this message appears, try and connect at a later time. If the message appears again, contact your service provider customer support.The remote access server is not respondingIf this message appears, try and connect at a later time or move to a better signal strength location. If you still cannot connect to the network, contact your service provider customer support.The modem has reported an errorIf this message is displayed, reboot your computer and try to connect again. If you are still unable to connect, contact your service provider customer support.
Troubleshooting   31Manual Revision A for WindowsFrequently Asked QuestionsQuestion AnswerHow can I check the quality of my connection?The Signal Strength status bar, located on the Wireless Connection Manager Main window, indicates the quality of the modem’s signal. If two or more bars are shaded green, the modem’s signal strength is good. If less than two bars are shaded green, the signal strength is poor and it will be difficult to establish and maintain a network connection.How do I find out what version of the Wireless Connection Manager software I’m using?Open the Wireless Connection Manager Main window and select About Wireless Connection Manager from the Help menu. The Wireless Connection Manager software version, release date, and copyright information will be displayed in the About Wireless Connection Manager window.How do I find out what version of firmware and hardware my modem is using?Open the Wireless Connection Manager Main window and select Properties from the Modem menu. The modem’s firmware and hardware version, as well as the modem type and manufacturer, will be displayed in the Modem Properties window.I have forgotten my User Name and Password. What do I do?Call your network service provider customer support.How can I tell if I have service?The Wireless Connection Manager indicates whether you have service. The Wireless Connection Manager will indicate if there is no service available in the Modem Status field.What is an ESN? An ESN (electronic serial number) is a unique number that identifies your wireless modem to the network. You can check your modem’s ESN by selecting Properties from the Modem menu.Why won’t the Wireless Connection Manager recognize my User Name or Password?Verify that you are entering the correct information in the Connection Properties window. If the Caps Lock feature is activated, turn it off and enter the information again. If the problem persists, call Customer Support of the network service provider to verify you have the correct User Name and Password.
32 Troubleshooting  Manual Revision A for Windows
33Manual Revision A for WindowsIndexAAbout Wireless Connection Manager WindowWindows 24CConnecting to the NetworkWindows 5, 13Connection FailureError Messages 28Troubleshooting 27DDetailed Status Report Window 23General Tab 23History Tab 24Disconnecting from the NetworkWindows 6, 17EError Messages 28FFrequently Asked Questions 29GGeneral TabBytes Received Field 23Bytes Sent Field 23Date Byte Totals Were Last Cleared Field23Detailed Status Report Window 23Modem Status Bar 23Total Bytes Transferred Field 23HHelp 26History TabDetailed Status Report Window 23MModem Configuration WindowCurrent CDMA Time Field 20Current System Time Field 20Network Service Field 20Receive Next Call As Field 20Show Connection Properties Check Box 20Windows 20Modem ManagerAbout Wireless Connection Manager Win-dow 24Detailed Status Report Window 23General Tab 23History Tab 24Help 26Main Window 19Modem Properties Window 21Quitting 7, 17Windows Installation 9Windows Modem Configuration Window20Modem Manager for WindowsStarting 13Modem Manager Main WindowBytes Received Field 19Bytes Sent Field 19Duration Field 19Modem Status Bar 19Signal Strength Status Bar 16, 19Windows 19Modem Properties WindowESN (HEX) Field 22Firmware Version Field 22Hardware Version Field 22Manufacturer Field 22Mobile Identification Number 22Modem Type Field 22PRL Version Field 22Windows 21NNetworkDisconnecting from 6, 17SSignal Strength Status Bar 16Software InstallationWindows 9System Tray Icons 18TTotal Byte Counter 25Troubleshooting 27Connection Failure 27Error Messages 28Frequently Asked Questions 29
34Manual Revision A for WindowsWWindows CommandsAbout Wireless Connection Manager 24Always on Top 25Clear Total Bytes 25Configuration 20Detailed Status Report 23Exit 17Hide Window 26Wireless Connection Manager Help 26Properties 21

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