Raveon Technologies orporated M8S-VC 220 MHz OEM Data Radio Modem User Manual

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RV-M8S
Da ta / Pa gin g Radio Modem
Te c hn ical Ma nu al
Version B6
May 2014
Raveon Technologies Corporation
2461 Impala Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92010
www.raveon.com
Company Confidential
Raveon Technologies Corp.
Table of Contents
1.
General Information about the RV-M8 ........................................................... 4
1.1.
1.2.
1.3.
1.4.
2.
Overview ....................................................................................................... 6
2.1.
2.2.
3.
LEDs ............................................................................................................................................ 10
I/O Pinout ..................................................................................................................................... 10
Heatsinking .................................................................................................................................. 11
Mounting Holes ............................................................................................................................ 11
STAT LED Outputs ...................................................................................................................... 11
User Serial Port Commands ........................................................................ 12
5.1.
5.2.
5.3.
5.4.
5.5.
5.6.
6.
General .......................................................................................................................................... 8
Transmitter Specifications (RV-M8S-xx) ........................................................................................ 8
Receiver Specifications ................................................................................................................. 8
Interface Specifications .................................................................................................................. 8
Electrical Inputs and Outputs ....................................................................... 10
4.1.
4.2.
4.3.
4.4.
4.5.
5.
Features......................................................................................................................................... 6
Firmware Updating .........................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Specifications ................................................................................................ 8
3.1.
3.2.
3.3.
3.4.
4.
Congratulations! ............................................................................................................................. 4
NOTICE ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Safety / Warning Information ......................................................................................................... 4
OEM Use ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 12
Command Mode .......................................................................................................................... 12
Setting a Parameter ..................................................................................................................... 12
Reading a Parameter ................................................................................................................... 13
CONFIG Button ........................................................................................................................... 13
Exiting the Command Mode......................................................................................................... 14
Command Mode Commands ....................................................................... 15
6.1.
General Command Common to Data Mode and Paging Mode.................................................... 15
6.2.
Data Modem Mode Related Commands ...................................................................................... 17
6.3.
Paging Receiver Related Commands .......................................................................................... 18
6.4.
Factory Default Settings..................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
RV-M8S-xx (Transceiver) ......................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
7.
Using the M8S – Packet Data Mode ............................................................ 20
7.1.
Setup ........................................................................................................................................... 21
7.2.
Programming Channels and Frequencies ................................................................................... 22
7.3.
Data Transmission ....................................................................................................................... 22
Serial Port Baud Rate .......................................................................................................................... 22
Busy-Channel Lock Out ....................................................................................................................... 23
7.4.
Addressing (Packetized Mode only) ............................................................................................ 23
Addressing Basics ............................................................................................................................... 23
Group Numbers ................................................................................................................................... 24
Hexadecimal Numbers......................................................................................................................... 24
Setting A System-Wide Address .......................................................................................................... 24
Broadcast Transmissions..................................................................................................................... 25
The Address Mask ............................................................................................................................... 25
Addressing Examples: ......................................................................................................................... 26
7.5.
Store-and-Forward Repeating ..................................................................................................... 27
Automatic Repeater Configuration ....................................................................................................... 27
Manual Configuration of the Repeat Feature ....................................................................................... 27
8.
9.
Debug Related Commands ......................................................................... 31
Diagnostic Provisions .................................................................................. 32
9.1.
Overview of Diagnostics .............................................................................................................. 32
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9.2.
9.3.
10.
Reading the Diagnostic Information ............................................................................................. 32
Status and Statistics Command ................................................................................................... 32
Tune-up and Alignment ............................................................................ 33
10.1. Periodic Calibration ...................................................................................................................... 33
10.2. Calibration Commands ................................................................................................................ 33
10.3. Center Frequency ........................................................................................................................ 34
10.4. TX Deviation ................................................................................................................................ 34
10.5. TX Modulation Balance ................................................................................................................ 34
10.6. Carrier Detect .............................................................................................................................. 35
Mode 0 - RF CD .................................................................................................................................. 35
Mode 1 - Data CD ............................................................................................................................... 35
Mode 2 - CD ON ................................................................................................................................. 35
Mode 3 - CD OFF ............................................................................................................................... 36
Mode 4 - Output Data Framing ............................................................................................................ 36
11.
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................ 37
Symptom:
Symptom:
Symptom:
Symptom:
Symptom:
Symptom:
Symptom:
12.
Unit will not receive ............................................................................................................ 37
Unit will not transmit ........................................................................................................... 37
Receive light blinks, but no data is received ...................................................................... 37
Long delay before transmitting........................................................................................... 38
Cannot enter Command Mode ........................................................................................... 38
Modem appears dead. ....................................................................................................... 38
Repeater will not repeat. .......................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Mechanical................................................................................................ 39
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1. General Information about the RV-M8
1.1. Congratulations!
Congratulations on your purchase of an M8S OEM radio modem – the most advanced
radio modem of its kind available today.
Please take a few minutes to read this manual carefully. The information presented here
will allow you to derive maximum performance from your radio modem. After reading it,
keep the manual handy for quick reference, in case questions arise later on.
1.2. NOTICE
There are no user-serviceable points inside this transceiver. All service work must be
referred to your Authorized Service Center or Raveon Technologies Service Department.
IMPORTANT NOTICE !
Because of the nature of wireless communication, transmission and reception of data can never be
guaranteed. Data may be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors), or be totally lost. Significant delays
or losses of data are rare when wireless devices, such as the Viper SC, are used in a normal
manner with a well-constructed network.
This radio should not be used in situations where failure to transmit or receive data could result in
damage of any kind to the user or any other party, including but not limited to personal injury, death,
or loss of property.
Raveon accepts no responsibility for damages of any kind resulting from delays or errors in data
transmitted or received using Viper SC, or for the failure of Viper SC to transmit or receive such
data.
1.3. Safety / Warning Information
1> This equipment should be serviced by qualified technicians only.
2> Blasting Caps and Blasting Areas
To avoid possible interference with blasting operations, turn off this radio or remove the
DC power when you are near electrical blasting caps, in a blasting area, or in areas
posted: “Turn off two-way radio.” Obey all signs and instructions.
3> Potentially Explosive Atmospheres
Turn off your radio prior to entering any area with a potentially explosive atmosphere.
Do not install this product for use in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres. Do
not remove, install, or charge batteries in such areas. Sparks in a potentially explosive
atmosphere can cause an explosion or fire resulting in bodily injury or even death.
Note: The areas with potentially explosive atmospheres referred to above include
fueling areas such as below decks on boats, fuel or chemical transfer or storage
facilities, areas where the air contains chemicals or particles, such as grain, dust or
metal powders, and any other area where you would normally be advised to turn off
your vehicle engine. Areas with potentially explosive atmospheres are often but not
always posted.
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4> FCC MPE Regulations
WARNING: It is the responsibility of the user to guarantee compliance with the FCC
MPE regulations when operating this device in a way other than described in this
manual.
5> Human body Exposure:
This equipment is approved only for mobile and base station transmitting devices,
separation distances of
(i) 36 centimeters or more for antennas with gains of 0 dBi or less or
(ii) 1 meters or more for antennas with gains 0 to 6 dBi should be maintained between
the antenna of this device and nearby persons during operation. To ensure compliance,
operation at distances closer than this is not recommended.
The preceding statement must be included as a CAUTION
statement in manuals for OEM products to alert users on FCC RF
Exposure compliance.
1.4. OEM Use
This radio module is for OEM use, and it is the responsibility of the OEM user to notify the
end-users of RF and electrical safety issues.
It is the user's responsibility to check his/her FCC license to determine the correct
parameters and settings for the channel frequencies, power level, and bandwidth.
It is the responsibility of the OEM implementing this product to ensure the suer is aware of
this.
1.5. Part 15 Note:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

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 the
receiver is connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
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2. Overview
The M8S RF Paging/Data radio modem is capable of high-speed narrow-band data
communications and POCSAG paging decoding. Its powerful microprocessor enables it to
perform as both a data radio modem and a paging receiver. It contains a receiver, a
transmitter, and modem, creating an easy-to-use transparent data radio link. The M8S’s
user interface is asynchronous digital data into and out of the M8S. Modem operation is
virtually transparent to the user and the configuration of the modem is via the user serial
port.
The M8S can be configured in either a paging decoder mode or a data modem mode. The
command-line interface is similar to Raveon’s other data radio products, and configuring
the mode is very easy. The M8S also has a digital input pin that may be used to electrically
change modem types between data modem and paging modes.
The M8S is an easy to use and its re-programmability makes it extremely versatile. Most
parameters within the modem may be re-configured to optimize it for specialized
operations, extended range, or higher data throughput.
2.1. Features
General Features








Serial input and output. Programmable serial baud rates up to 57600.
Small sized and single-board construction.
Very efficient circuitry.
Lowest current draw in industry.
Easy to use. Transmit data in = Receive data out.
Receive-only version available
Extensive diagnostic capabilities
Serial communication may be 7 or 8 bit ASCII, or WMX
Data Radio Modem Features











High-speed over the air data rates. Meets FCC spectral efficiency standards.
Built-in radio transceiver with integrated modem
Wide input voltage with high-efficiency switching voltage regulator.
Capable of store-and-forward repeating operation.
16 bit addressing for up to 65,525 different unique device addresses per channel
Supports group and broadcast transmissions. Network mask allows groups of any size.
Very fast Transmit-to-Receive turn-around time.
Serial input and output. Programmable serial baud rates up to 57600.
Programmable over-the-air data rates for long-range or high-speed
Automatic key of transmitter on data.
RF carrier-detect is not required receiving. No squelch setting required.
Paging Receiver Features
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




POCSAG decoder mode operates at 512, 1200, and 2400 baud.
1-3 programmable cap codes.
Promiscuous mode to receive all pages on the air.
Automatic and manual switching between numeric and alpha-numeric modes.
Small sized and very rugged extruded enclosure.
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3. Specifications
3.1. General
Model Number, transceiver:............................................................. RV-M8S-xx
Frequency Bands: ............................................................................... -VC 216-220MHz
Serial Port Baud Rates ...................................................................... 1.2k, 2.4k, 4.8k, 9.6k, 19.2k, 38.4k, 57.6k, 115.2k
Over-the-air baud rates .................................................................... 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 (default)
Operating Mode ................................................................................. Simplex or Half-duplex
Full Spec Operating Temperature range.........................................-30°C to +60°C
TX-RX and RX-TX turn-around time ...............................................<3mS
Wake-up time .....................................................................................<700mS from OFF
On-board LEDs ................................................................................. Power , Status
RF I/O Connector ............................................................................... MMCX female
Digital signal levels............................................................................ 3.3V logic
Enable Input Low............................................................................... 400mV
Digital Output High (1K load) .........................................................3.0 - 3.3V
Digital Output Low (1K load) ..........................................................0 - 0.2V
Digital Input High .............................................................................> 3.0V
Digital Input Low ..............................................................................< 0.3V
Enable input High ..............................................................................1.40V
DC Input ............................................................................................ 10-15 volts DC
3.2. Transmitter Specifications (RV-M8S-xx)
RF Power Output ............................................................................... 2.0-3.0 W
Maximum Duty Cycle (2W, measured over 60 seconds) .............. 10% to 50C, 5% to 60C
Frequency Deviation .........................................................................± 2.2kHz
Channel spacing ................................................................................. 12.5kHz, 25kHz
Occupied bandwidth .........................................................................11 kHz narrow, 16kHz wide
TX Spurious outputs .......................................................................... < -70dBc
Occupied Bandwidth.........................................................................Per FCC part 90
FCC Emissions Designator ...............................................................11K0F1D, 16K0F2D
Frequency Stability ............................................................................ Better than ±1.5ppm
3.3. Receiver Specifications
Data RX sensitivity (.1% BER), 19200, 9600, ...................................< -106dBm
1200 & 2400baud ................................................................................ < -112dBm
RF No-tune bandwidth ..................................................................... 20MHz
Adjacent Channel Selectivity ............................................................ -50dB
Alternate Channel Selectivity ........................................................... -65dB
Blocking and spurious rejection ....................................................... -75dB
RX intermodulation rejection ........................................................... -70dB
3.4. Interface Specifications
Connector Type .......................................... 20-pin 2mm header
DC Input ..................................................... 8-13V
DC power draw, RX mode ....................... < 600mW
DC power draw, TX mode, 2W ................ < 8W
DC power draw, TX mode, 3W ................ < 12W
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DC current draw, standby mode ............ < 150uA
IO Voltage Levels ....................................... 3.3V digital logic
RX and TX data .......................................... Transparent Async
Word length ................................................ 8 bits
Format ......................................................... N, O, or E
Modem handshake signals ....................... RTS, CTS, CD
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4. Electrical Inputs and Outputs
4.1. LEDs
Status LED (TX) This LED blinks red when the transmitter keys and is putting out RF
power. It blinks green upon the reception of data or RF carrier. It turns orange when
decoding a paging message.
Power LED (PWR) This LED does a short blink, once every two seconds, indicating to the
user that the power to the modem is ON and the modem is working. When the modem is in
the command mode, this LED will blink on and off, once per second.
4.2. I/O Pinout
The I/O connector is a 20-pin header, 2mm pin spacing.
Pin #
Function
GND
Vcc
CD
I/O
TX On
Data In (TXD)
Data Out (RXD)
Enable
Sleep
CTS
10
11
12
13
I/O
14
RTS
RSSI
3.3V out
IOA
AUDIO IN
IOB
15
Decode Mode
16
STAT1
17
RX Audio
18
STAT2
19
GND
20
Vbu
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I/O
Function
Ground
DC Input
Carrier Detect Out. Low for carrier. Logic high for no carrier. RF or
DATA carrier detect set with ATR1 command. Default: RF.
Pin is High when module is transmitting. Low when off, receiving, or
sleeping.
Transmit data input.
Receive data output.
Low (<.7V) to shut down the module. High (>2.5V) to enable it.
CPU Sleep input
Clear to send output. Indicates state of internal input buffer.
ATJF command sets the threshold where CTS is negated.
RTS input for serial flow control.
Receiver signal strength indicator
3.3V out of the M8 module. 50mA max current draw.
General purpose digital I/O. 3V digital logic from CPU on M8. If the
Audio option is used, this pin is used to input transmit audio.
General purpose I/O. 3V digital logic from CPU on M8. By default
functions as DSR. 0= ready&running. 1=sleeping. If enable=0, this
line will =0.
3V digital logic with 10k pull-up.
High/open = POCSAG paging receive mode,
Low/ground=data modem mode.
This feature enabled by setting the alternate protocol with the ATMA
command.
Output to drive external dual-color LED. Connect led between
STAT1 and STAT2.
Receive and transmit audio output for factory test. Do not connect to
anything. If the AUDIO option is used, this pin is the receive audio
output.
Output to drive external dual-color LED. Do not connect the LED to
ground or DC voltage.
System Ground to M8
Backup battery input to CPU to retain memory. Not required to be
connected to anything.
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4.3. Heatsinking
The M8S operates at up to 10% transmit duty cycle at ambient temperatures up to 50°C.
For duty cycles up to 50%, the module requires additional heat sinking.
If an external heat sink presses against the “GND PAD” are of the PCB, the RF power
transistor will run cooler, and allow higher duty cycles.
4.4. Mounting Holes
6 mounting holes are provided on the module. For best RF performance, the M8S module
should be mounted to the system ground, using metal stand-offs.
4.5. STAT LED Outputs
An external dual-color LED may be connected to STAT1 and STAT2 pins to show the
status of the modem. Do not connect the LED to power or ground! Connect the LED as
show below.
Because the STAT2 signal is also used to put the modem into the “bootloader’ mode, the
led must be wired as shown above to ensure a reliable start-up. The Red LED will blink
when the modem transmits, and the green LED will blink on receive of data. It will also
blink orange when decoding a POCSAG message.
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5. User Serial Port Commands
5.1. Overview
The serial portion the RF modem is used to send and receive data over the
air, as well as to configure the RF modem. In normal operation, the user
sends data into the TXD pin of the IO connector, and this data is transmitted
over the air. Received data from another RF modem is output to the user via
the RXD pin of the IO connector. This is the default operating condition of the
RF modem. No special characters, hardware control lines, or timing is
required to operate the M8S modem.
There is also a “Command Mode” used to program and configure the M8.
The command mode is for use by qualified technicians, or OEM applications
that manage the configuration of the device. It is the responsibility of the
OEM user, system integrator, or dealer to ensure the device is configured in
compliance with FCC regulations and requirements specified in this manual.
In the Command Mode, the M8S modem accepts commands via the serial
port TxD pin. The commands can be used to change certain internal
parameters of the M8S modem as well as to read-out the current
configuration and diagnostic statistics.
5.2. Command Mode
The M8S modem may be put into a “Command Mode”, by entering a
sequence of three plus characters (+++). To keep the M8S modem from
unintentionally entering the Command Mode because of the +++ pattern
occurring in a stream of data entering the modem, there must be a pause in
the data stream before the +++ as well as a pause after the +++ is sent. If
either pause is missing, the modem will not enter the command mode.
Using serial communications software such as HypterTerminal, send the 3character command sequence “+++” while observing times of silence before
[BT (Silence Before Sequence) Command] and after [AT (Silence After
Sequence) Command] the command characters. The default BT and AT
times are 500mS.
The default sequence for entering into AT Command Mode:
1. No characters sent for ½ a second.
2. Input three (3) plus characters (“+++”) within ½ of a
second.
3. No characters sent for ½ a second.
When the M8S modem first enters the Command Mode, it sends the phrase
Raveon M8S
5.3. Setting a Parameter
To set a parameter in the M8S modem, enter the Command Mode as
described above. Then enter the proper AT command, a space, the
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parameter, and then a carriage return. For Example, to set the address of the
M8S modem to 1234, enter the following command:
ATDT 1234 
Once a Parameter is changed, the modem will begin using the new
parameter and the new parameter is saved to non-volatile.
5.4. Reading a Parameter
To read the value of a particular setting, issue the command, with no
parameter. The modem will return the value followed by an “OK”. The
modem’s OK response is:
The value in ASCII decimal format.
A   ( = ASCII 0D,  = ASCII 0A).
An “O”, “K”, , and  sequence.
For example, if the user enters the command to read the M8’s modem
address and its address was 1234, the user would issue the following
command:
ATDT
and the modem will respond with:
1234   OK  
To get on-line help with a command, enter the command and put a question
mark in for the parameter. For example, to see what the ATDT command is
for, type:
ATDT ?
The modem will respond by listing a brief description of the command. To
see a list of all commands, type HELP.
Many commands support the “MIN” and “MAX” parameters to read the
minimum and maximum allowable settings. For example, type ATJF MAX to
find the maximum value the CTS negation threshold may be set to.
5.5. CONFIG Button
If certain parameters within the modem are modified in a manor that causes
the modem to cease functioning or if the user cannot enter the command
mode via the “+++” method described above, there is a small push button
internal to the M8S modem to assist in this case. This CONFIG button may
be pressed at any time, and forces the modem into a known operational state.
The CONFIG button is located inside the modem. Remove the rear cover,
exposing the two circuit boards. The button is in the front edge of the radio
module’s circuit board.
The default settings that the modem will revert to when the CONFIG button is
pressed are:
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1. Serial port 9600 baud, 8 data bits 1 stop, no parity
2. ATCT setting set to 60000 (60 second time-out)
3. Serial port on the front of the unit in RS232 mode, 9600bps, N/8/1.
Even though the serial baud rate reverts to 9600 baud when the CONFIG
button is pressed and the IO port is RS232, it will revert back to the settings
programmed into the M8S modem once the Command Mode is exited.
5.6. Exiting the Command Mode
There are three ways to exit the command mode. They are:
1. ATCN Issuing the ATCN. The M8S radio will exit the command mode,
and begin normal operation.
2. EXIT Issuing the EXIT. The M8S radio will exit the command mode, and
begin normal operation.
3. Time Out. After a pre-set amount of time (60 seconds is the factory
default time), the modem will automatically exit the Command Mode, and
continue normal operation. Changes will not automatically be saved. This
time-out duration may be set with the ATCT command.
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6. Command Mode Commands
6.1.
General Command Common to Data Mode and Paging Mode
These commands apply to the general configuration of the M8S, and are
applicable in both the data modem mode and paging mode.
These commands are for use by qualified service technicians.
Command
Command Description
Parameters
Silence AFTER Sequence - Sets period of silence after the
command sequence characters in mS.
Range:0 – 1000
(mS)
ATBD
Baud Rate – Sets serial com port baud rate (bps). Type the
range index (0-7) or the actual desired baud rate.
Range: 0 – 7
0 = 1200 5= 38400
1 = 2400 6=57600
2 = 4800 7=115200
3 = 9600
4 = 19200
ATBT
Silence BEFORE Sequence – Sets period of silence before
the command sequence character in mS.
Range: 0-1000
mS
ATAT
ATCD
ATCH
ATCI
ATCT
ATE
ATF
ATFT
ATFR
ATFX
Carrier Detect Threshold – Read/set the carrier detect
threshold, in dBm. -113 means -113dBm.
Configure Hardware Flow Control – Enable (1) or disable (0)
flow control. When enabled, the modem will monitor the RTS
line, and if it is negated, stop sending data out the serial port. If
disabled, the modem will ignore the state of RTS, and always
send out charators.
Handshaking Invert – Used to invert the RTS handshaking
signal. 0=normal, 1 = inverted.
Command Time Out – If no valid commands have been
received via the serial port within this time period (in
milliseconds), modem returns to normal operation mode from
Command mode. If the CONFIG button inside the M8S is
pressed, this parameter will be automatically set to 60000.
Echo – Character echo set on (E1) or off (E0). This applies to
the Command Mode only.
Display frequencies – Display all of the frequencies
programmed into all of the channel memories.
Transmit Frequency – Program the transmit frequency for this
channel. Enter in Hz or in MHz. The frequency will
automatically be saved in non-volatile memory (flash) for this
current channel number.
Receive Frequency – Program the receive frequency for this
channel. Enter in Hz or MHz. The frequency will automatically
be saved in non-volatile memory (flash) for this current channel
number.
TX and RX Frequency – Program the receive and transmit
frequency for this channel. Enter in Hz or MHz. Same as
issuing an ATFR and an ATFT command. The frequency will
automatically be saved in non-volatile memory (flash) for this
current channel number.
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Factory
Default
500
500
-120 to -60
-113
1 = Enable
0 = Disable
1 = Invert
0 = Normal active low.
Range: 100-60000mS
60000
Range: 0 , 1
1 (echo)
N/A
Range: See product data
sheet. For MURS products,
frequency cannot be
changed.
Range: See product data
sheet. For MURS products,
frequency cannot be
changed.
Range: See product data
sheet.
See product
data sheet.
See product
data sheet.
N/A
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ATHN
Channel Number Select current radio channel number. This
command does not store the channel number into EEPROM,
Range: 1 - 6
ATHP
Channel Number – Select current radio channel number. The
channel number is stored in EEPROM memory.
Range: 1 - 6
ATIC
Read Current Draw Read the current draw in mA. Accuracy is
within 20% of actual current draw.
Range: 0-9999
ATJF
Read/set the CTS threshold – Set the serial buffer threshold
where the CTS line is negated. By default the ATJF level is at
80% of the internal buffer size.
- 2000
N/A
3800
Enable/Disable the LEDs – 1 = LEDs always off. This reduces
some power consumption. 0 = LED operate normally.
0 or 1
ATMT
Protocol Select – The over-the-air communication protocol.
0=Packetized mode, 3=POCSAG paging receiver.
Range: 0 or 3
ATMA
Alternate Protocol – If enabled, the alternate protocol is
selected with the Decode Mode input pin, 15.
Range: -1, 0, or 3
ATNB
Parity – Selects parity format. Settings 0-4 transfer 8-bits over
antenna port and generate the parity bit on the RF receiving side.
Range: 0 – 5
0 = none
1 = Odd
2 = Even
3 = Mark (1)
4 = Space (0)
ATND
Number of Data Bits – Set/read the number of data bits.
Range: 5 - 8
ATNS
Stop Bits – Selects the number of stop bits.
Range: 1-2
ATL
Range : 0 - 4
ATR1
Select CD pin output signal – CD may be RF carrier detect, or
modem data detect.
ATR3
Serial Port Time Out – The time in milliseconds for the serial
port to time out. When data is entering the serial port, and this
amo0unt of time passes with no more data, the M8S will begin
to transmit the data over the air.
Frequency Offset. Used to set the radio on the center of the radio
ATR8
ATRQ
ATRS
ATSL
channel.
Receiver Signal Level – Reads the Receiver Signal strength
this instant, and returns the level in dBm.
RSSI (Receive Signal Strength Indicator) – Returns the signal
level of last received packet. The reading is in dBm. Usable for
relative comparison of signals, but absolute value is within10dB
at -90dBm.
4 = Data Framing
3= Always negate CD
2 = Always assert CD
1 = Data CD
0 = RF CD
Range: 1 - 999
0**
Range: -40 to –130
(dBm)
No parameters. Returns
a number : -50 to –140
(dBm) varies by model.
Read Only
1 - 999999999
ATSM
LPM Operation Enable – When set to 1, the DTR input line
controls the M8’s low-power operation. When set to 0, the M8S
will not go into LPM, regardless of the state of the DTR pin.
When set to 2, the modem is forced into a low-power mode,
disabling the receiver.
Range: 0, 1, 2
ATST
Statistics – Show the unit’s operational statistics. See Statistics
section of user manual.
ATTD
Transmit Test Data – When issued, the modem will begin
transmitting data. The type of data sent is set in the parameter.
16
20
20mS is the
default.
Range: -500 to +500
Serial Number – Reads and returns a unique serial number for
thjs unit.
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0, 1,2, 3, 4, or 5
none
unique
None
0 = Go back to normal
1 = Random
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Entering a  will terminate the transmission.
3 = 1010… at ¼ baud rate
4 = TX all 0s
5 = TX all 1s
6 = Test Points ON
7 = Transmit CW
8 = Transmit 1010101…
ATTE
Read product temperature – Read the internal temperature of
the unit’s circuit board in degrees Celsius.
-40 to +99
ATVB
Read DC input Voltage– Returns the DC input voltage reading,
in mV (12500 = 12.5VDC input).
None
none
Firmware Version – Returns firmware version currently loaded
on the module.
Restore Factory – Restore the factory default values. This
command will not erase the calibration values. After this
command executes, the modem will still be in the CONFIG mode.
Read the Band – Reads the frequency band of the radio.
First parameter is the text version (UA, UC, VB, …), second
parameter is the lower limit, and the third parameter is the
upper limit in MHz. Use to read the band that the radio is
tuned to cover.
Read Only, 3
characters
none
None
CONFIG
Display the M8’s configuration.
0, 1, or 2
CHNUM
Read number of channels. This command will return the
number of channels this product has.
MODEL
Read Model number. Read the model number of the unit.
None
M8S
SHOW
Show/display an overview of the radio’s configuration.
None
ATVR
AT&F
BAND
none
** indicates values that are calibrated in the factory and are unit-specific. If the “Radio
Type” is changed, these will need to be re-calibrated.
6.2.
Data Modem Mode Related Commands
These commands apply to the operation of the M8S when it is in the data
modem communication mode.
Command
Command Description
ATBC
Busy Channel Lock Out – Enable/disable the BCL. If enabled,
the modem will not transmit on a radio channel that is busy (has
RF on if). 0-OFF, 1=ON.
Range: 0-1
ATDT
Destination Address to call– Sets address of the modem to
send data to. Note, this parameter is entered in HEX format.
Each digit may be a 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,A,B,C,D,E,or an F.
Range: 0-FFFF
ATGP
Group Number – Set/read the group number for this unit.
0 means ignore the group number. 1-255 is a group identifier.
Only M8s with the same Group Number will communicate
together.
0-255
ATHS
Show History – Show a table of listing the most recent
receptions, and the IDs that the data was sent from
No parameter
ATHX
ATLA
ATMK
Enable/Disable single-hop repeating – 0=any number of
repeats, 1 – unit will not repeat a packet that was already
repeated.
Listen Address – Configures the listen address for this unit. The
unit will receive data if this listen address matches the destination
address in a data transmission. FFFF to disable it.
Address Mask – Configures local and global address space.
Each digit may be a 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,A,B,C,D,E,or F. In most
applications, this is kept at FFFF.
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Parameters
Factory
Default
1234
0 (ignore
group
numbers)
0 or 1
0 (multi-hop
OK)
Range: 0000 - FFFF
1234
Range: 0000 - FFFF
FFFF
Raveon Technologies Corp.
ATMY
ATPE
Unit Address – Configures the individual; address for this unit.
Each digit may be a 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,A,B,C,D,E,or F. Note: FF
is interpreted as a group. See addressing section.
Packet Error Display – Shows statistics to compute packeterror rate. Displays Packets Per Minute (PPM) and a running
total.
Range: 0000 - FFFF
1234
None (display PER)
1 = reset counters
2 = Stop PER display
None
RF Power Output. Set or show the RF power output setting.
ATPO
ATR0
Value is in percent, from 0% to 100%. Use and RF wattmeter to
confirm the power setting, and adjust the % accordingly to obtain
the desired RF power level.
Symbol Peak Deviation – Set the peak FM deviation of the
transmit symbols. Note: This can be a negative number to invert
the modulation.
ATR2
Over-The-Air bit rate - This is the data rate the radio uses to
send data over the air. All RF modems in the network must
use the same over-the-air baud rate. Refer to section Error!
Reference source not found. for information on how to set the
OTA baud rate.
ATR5
Preamble length – The number of bytes to send over-the-air in
the pre-amble.
100
0-100
Range: -1000 – 1000
120**
Range:
0 = 800
1 = 1200
2 = 2400
3 = 4800
4 = 8000 4L
5 = 9600 2L
6 = 19200 4L
7 = 5142 2L
8 = 9600 4L
9 = 2000 2L
(600)
5**
ATRB
ATRF
ATRV
Number of retries. If this modem does not get an ACK back
when it sends data, this is the number of times it will re-transmit
the packet and wait for an ACK. 0=disabled feature.
RF Carrier Required – When enabled, there must be RF
energy on the channel for the modem to output data.
Streaming data mode only. 1-RF required. 0=ignore RF energy
when receiving.
Disable Remote Access – When enabled (set to a 0), the
modem will respond to over-the-air RPR requests, Pings, and
over-the-air commands. Default is OFF (1).
Range: 3 - 255
(Varies based on
data rate and
radio type. 7
typical)
Range: 0-99
Range: 0, 1
(ACKs are not
used)
0 (no RF
required)
0 = Remote Access on
1 = Remote Access off
ATTT
Max Packet Size – Set the maximum number of bytes in an
over-the-air packet.
1 - 512
ATXn
Show or Configure the Repeat Table – Set the addresses that
this unit will store-and-forward data to/from. n = 1, 2, 3, or 4
designating the entry in the table to show or edit..
Four parameters
aaaa bbbb cccc dddd where
aaaa=Source Address
bbbb = S.A. Mask
cccc = Destination Address
dddd = D.A. Mask
ATXR
ATXT
PING
Enable/Disable Store and Forward Repeating – 0=disabled, 1
– enabled.
Read/set repeater delay – Read or set the repeater delay. This
is the time between receiving a data packet, and the time the
repeater will re-send it.
Ping another modem. Format is PING xxxx, where xxxx is
the ID of the modem to ping. If remote access is enabled on
xxxx, it will respond.
0 or 1
XXXX
80
0 (Off)
** indicates values that are calibrated in the factory and are unit-specific.
6.3. Paging Receiver Related Commands
The following commands are specific to the operation of the M8S in the paging
decoder mode. The ATMT and ATMA commands configure the M8S to operate
in the paging decoder mode.
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PM
Data Format. 0=Numeric, 1= Alpha-numeric, 2=tone,
3=voice, 4=auto detect based on function bits.
Set/Read Cap Code. Two parameters, CC x yyyy
x= 1,2 or 3 which is the cap code number.
yyyy is the pager code 1 – 2097152. -1 to disable the
particular cap code. Enter “CC” to see a list of all pager cap
codes.
Promiscuous Mode. Enable/disable promiscuous mode.
0 = off, 1 = ON (receive all paging messages).
PR
Pager Data Rate. Parameter is 512, 1200, or 2400
DF
CC x
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0, 1, 2, 3, or 4
CC 1 12345
CC 2 -1
CC 3 -1
0 or 1
512, 1200, 2400
512
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7. Using the M8S – Packet Data Mode
This section describes the operation of the M8S when it is in the Packet Mode of
operation. It is the easiest and most reliable mode of operation for a data
modem.
In Packet Mode, all transmissions are sent in bursts or packets, and contain
address, error detection, and error correction information. Date enters the M8S
modem’s serial I/O port, and is stored in a buffer within the modem until it is
ready to be transmitted. Packetized operation has these advantages over nonpacket modems:
Packet Mode Advantages
1. Error Detection The modem uses a 16-bit CRC at the end of every packet
of data. The CRC is used to check the data for errors, and if there are any
errors, the data will not be passed onto the user.
2. Error Correction Automatic error correction may be used. M8S modems
incorporate an optional ARQ method to re-transmit packets with error, to
ensure the user’s data is delivered error-free.
3. Addressing Packetized operation allows for a more versatile network
architecture, with source, destination, and network addresses. M8S uses a
16-bit address to identify data packets.
4. No Dribble Data Even in the presence of noise, the M8S modem will not
output extra data or have random bit errors. Modems without packet
operation generally do not work well with weak noisy signals.
5. Transparent Operation Because of the high-reliability and error-free
operation the Packet Mode offers the user, most user applications will
seamlessly work using the M8S in its Packet Mode.
6. Repeatable and Routable. M8S packets are structured so that they may be
repeated using a store-and-forward repeater, and/or routed using specialized
hardware.
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(Packet Mode of Operation)
The packet or paging mode of operation is configured using the ATMT
command.
7.1. Setup
1. Connect a DC power source to the M8S.
2. Connect a good quality antenna, cut to the operating frequency, to the BNC
connector on the front of the modem. Use a good antenna, and place is at
high-above obstructions as possible.
3. Connect a computer terminal, or PC computer running HyperTerminal, to the
9-pin I/O connector. The factory default serial ports settings are 9600 bps, 8
data bits, 1 stop, no parity.
4. Program the modem’s operating frequency to your desired operating
frequency. This is done with the ATFX xxx.xxxxx command.
5. Using the AT commands, change any of the default operating parameters that
must be modified. From the factory, the modems are configured and shipped
ready-to-use. Out of the box, they will communicate on the default radio
channel using the factory defaults. In general, the parameters you may want
to modify will be:
ATFX
ATBD
ATMY
ATMK
ATDT
Frequency for this channel. Set to your frequency.
Serial port baud rate
The ID of this unit. Default is 1234.
The network address mask. Default is FFFF.
The address of the unit this modem will talk to. Default is 1234.
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6. Connect your serial data device to the TXD and RXD pins of the I/O
connector. To connect the M8S to an RS232 serial port, you will need an
external digital to serial level converter.
The M8S is now ready to use. Any serial data going into the modem will be
transmitted over the air, and any data received over the air will be sent out the
serial port.
Remember, that from the factory, all M8S modems are configured to simply work.
Plug in power and connect to the serial port at 9600 baud, and the modems will
communicate on the default channel. Change the channel frequency to your
specific frequency, and they will be ready to work on your channel.
7.2. Programming Channels and Frequencies
The M8S modem has memory for up to 6 channels. A channel is a pair of
frequencies, one for transmit and one for receive. They may be different or they
may be the same. You may program any valid frequency into any channel
number. To program a channel, perform the following steps.
1. Change to the channel you wish to program, using the ATHP x command,
where x is the channel number.
2. Program the frequency for this channel x, using the ATFT, ATFR, or ATFX
command. Note that the frequency my be entered in MHz as long as you
use a decimal point. For Example, enter ATFX 450.1 to set the channel
frequency to 450.100MHz. Alternately, you may enter the frequency in hertz
by entering ATFX 450100000. You must enter all of the zeros if you enter the
frequency in hertz.
3. Review the frequency setting with the ATFT, ATFR, or ATFX command. To
see a list of all of the channels , enter ATF.
4. To change the radio channel, use the ATHP x command while the modem is
in the command mode.
7.3. Data Transmission
To transmit data, send one or more bytes of data into the serial port of the
modem. When a full packet of data has been collected into the internal buffer of
the modem, or when there is a pause in the data, the modem will automatically
key its transmitter, and send the data over the air.
Serial Port Baud Rate
While the modem is transmitting, the user may continue to send more data into
the M8. Because the buffers in the M8S are full-duplex, the serial port data rate
and the over-the-air data rates are independent. The serial port baud-rates may
be set slow to accommodate legacy equipment, or set at high-speed to minimize
latency. The over-the-air data rate us usually 4800 baud for narrow-band
channels, and 9600 baud for wide-band, although faster or slower rates may be
used.
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In Packet Mode, selection of the serial port baud-rate is important. As shown
above, if the serial port baud-rate is the same as the over-the-air baud rate and
the packets are short, the channel utilization is only about 50%. But, if the serial
port baud rate is set much higher, say 2-8X the over-the air rate, the channel
utilization becomes near 100%.
Because the M8S can handle serial-port data rate far in excess of the over-theair rate, the efficiency of the M8S in Packet Mode is approximately the same as
other brand modems that cannot operate in a Packet Mode — with the added
benefit or ARQ, error-free data, and addressing.
Busy-Channel Lock Out
If your system operation require the M8S modem to monitor-before-transmit, of if
you do not want the M8S to transmit on a channel that is busy, you can enable
“Busy-Channel-Lockout”, using the ATBC 1 command. ATBC 0 disables BCL,
and thus the modem will transmit whenever it has data to send out.
The factory-default is BCL disabled. Use caution when enabling it, as a CW
interferer, PC with poor shielding, or some other source of RF can stop the
modem from transmitting. The threshold where the M8S senses RF carrier, and
determines that the channel is busy is set by the ATRA command. This is
factory calibrated to an equivalent RF level of approximately -110dBm.
7.4. Addressing (Packetized Mode only)
Addressing Basics
One of the more powerful aspects of the M8S modem is its addressing scheme.
Incorporating addressing in the modem allows multiple radio systems on the
same frequency to co-exist, and not interfere with each other. Also, some user
application cannot tolerate receiving data that was not intended for it, and by
setting the addresses in the modems properly, the system can be configured to
allow reception of only data intended for the recipient.
If addressing is not needed or desired, it can be turned off so that all modems
receive data from all other modems, and all modems can talk to all other
modems.
Each M8S contains a 16 bit address, called its Unit Address, and is represented
as a 4 digit hexadecimal number. M8S address may be any number between
0000 and FFFF, which is effectively 65,535 different addresses. Every M8S has
a Unit Address programmed into it, as well as the ID of the unit it will send data
to. The Unit Address is programmed with the ATMY xxxx command, and the
Unit Address of the destination modem (the Destination Address) is configured
with the ATDT xxxx command.
The defaults UNIT ID in al M8S modems is 1234, and 1234 is the default for the
destination ID. An Address Mask is used to select which digits of the address will
be used to determine if a particular reception was intended for the M8S modem.
The default Address Mask is FFFF, which means all digits will be used. With
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these settings, by default all M8s will talk to and hear all other M8S radio
modems.
Group Numbers
By default the M8’s Group Number is 0. Group 0 means ignore the group
numbering. The Group Number is set with the ATGP xx command, where xx is
the group number. ATGP 0 disables group numbering and is the default way the
M8S radio modem works. If the Group Number is set to any non-zero number
from 1-255, then the group feature is enabled, and the group number will be the
group specified in the ATGP command. When enabled, the M8S will only
communicate with other M8s that have the same Group Number.
Hexadecimal Numbers
For those not familiar with hexadecimal numbers, a hexadecimal digit represents
a 4-bit binary pattern. There are 16 possible values
(0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,A,B,C,D,E,and F). These 16 values represent 4 bits of
information, thus 4 hexadecimal digits can represent 16 bits of information. The
hexadecimal numbers represent 4 bit data in the following way:
Hexadecimal Table
Hex #
Binary
0000
0001
0010
0011
Hex #
Binary
0100
0101
0110
0111
Hex #
Binary
1000
1001
1010
1011
Hex #
Binary
1100
1101
1110
1111
When communicating over the air, M8S modems transmit their Unit Address and
the Destination Address along with the data. Receiving modems check the
received Destination Address, and see if it matches their Unit Address. If it does
match, the receiving modem outputs the data it received via its serial port. If it
does not match, the receiving modem discards the data, and does not send it out
the serial port.
Setting A System-Wide Address
If individual addressing is not needed in your system, there are two ways to
ensure it is not used. One way is to set all modems in the system with the same
Unit Address and Destination Address. From the factory, these are both set to
1234, and thus, all modems can communicate with all other modems, using the
address 1234. The advantage of using this system-wide address, is that if there
are other M8S modems on the channel, but in some other system, they probably
will not have the same Unit Address, and thus will not interfere with your system.
To reduce the possibility of data cross-talk, the system implementer may wish to
use a different system-wide address for the Unit Address instead of 1234. There
are over 65,000 addresses available.
The ATLA command can be used to set an additional address that the M8S will
listen for.
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An alternate way to disable addressing altogether, is set the Address Mask to
0000 (ATMK 0000 command). This tells the M8S to ignore the address, and
receive every transmission.
Broadcast Transmissions
The double FF is used to identify a broadcast packet. A transmission with a two
digit FF in the first two positions of the destination ID, or in the last two positions
of the destination ID, will be interpreted as a broadcast, and any modem with an
ID that matches the two non-FF digits will receive the data. For example,
sending data with a destination ID of 12FF will be received by any modem with a
unit ID 1200 through 12FF. Sending data with a destination ID of FF34 will be
received by any modem with a unit ID of 0034 through FF34.
The Address Mask
The reason to use hexadecimal digits to represent the unit address, is that along
with the Unit Address programmed into the M8, there is an “Address Mask”
programmed into it. The default mask is FFFF. The address mask is used to
determine if a particular data transmission should be received by the modem.
Only in systems where some modems should only talk to certain other modems,
might you want to change the address mask. Whenever data is received over
the air, the Destination Address of the transmission is logically “ANDed” with the
Address Mask in the receiving modem. This is the Effective Destination Address.
The receiving M8S also ANDs its own Unit Address with its Address Mask. The
result is the Effective Unit Address. The Effective Unit Address is compared to
the Effective Destination Address, and if the two are identical, the data will be
received.
Note: Logically
1 AND 1 = 1,
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0 AND 0 = 0,
25
1 AND 0 = 0,
0 AND 1 = 0
Raveon Technologies Corp.
` Figure 1 (Address Filtering)
M8 receives data
over-the-air to
Destination Address
xxxx
M8 has Unit
Address yyyy
M8 has
Address Mask
“AND” them
together
“AND” them
together
zzzz
Compare the two
results from these
two ANDs
Output the data via
serial port if the two
results were
identical
One effect of this is that an address mask of 0000 will cause the M8S modem to
receive all data from all units that transmit data messages. The Destination
Address will effectively be ignored if the mask is set to 0000.
Addressing Examples:
Example 1 (default configuration)
Sending Destination Address = 1234
Receiving Unit Address = 1234
Receiving Unit’s Address Mask = FFFF
Result: Unit will receive the data, because the addresses identically match. When the
addresses are identical, the value of the mask is not important.
Notes: This is the default configuration. All units have address 1234, and all modems will talk
to all other modems with address 1234.
Example 2 (a configuration that won’t work)
Sending to Destination Address = 1236
Receiving Unit Address = 1234
Receiving Unit’s Address Mask = FFFF
Result: No data will be received, because the address do not match, and the address mask
of FFFF requires that all digits in the address match. .
Example 3 (able to receive a data from a group, 1230 – 123F)
Sending to Destination Address = 1236
Receiving M8S Unit Address = 1234
Receiving M8S Address Mask = FFF0
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
Result: Data will be received. 1236 ANDed with FFF0 is 1230. 1234 ANDed with FFF0 is
1230. The results of the ANDing match, and thus the data will be received.
Example 4 (able to receive from a group, xx34 where xx is any two digits)
Sending Destination Address = 2234
Receiving M8’s Unit Address = 1234
Receiving M8’s Address Mask = 00FF
Result: Data will be received. 2234 AND 00FF equals 0034. 1234 AND 00FF equals 0034,
therefore they match. The results of the ANDing match, and thus the data will be received.
7.5. Store-and-Forward Repeating
The M8S modem has a built-in wireless repeater. Each M8S is capable of not
only sending and receiving data from/to its serial port, but also re-transmitting
data packets it receives over-the-air data.
Automatic Repeater Configuration
The easiest way to enable store-and-forward repeating is the use the REPEAT 1
command. REPEAT 1 will turn on the store-and-forward feature, and configure it
to repeat all packets the radio can hear on the air. REPEAT 0 disables storeand-forward repeating.
It is highly recommended that you use this method to configure your M8S as a
repeater.
Important: The Unit ID of the repeater must be unique in the system. No other
radio modem in the system can have the ID of the repeater.
Manual Configuration of the Repeat Feature
There is a sophisticated packet repeating algorithm in the M8, and it may be
manually configured for more complex repeating scenarios. In most cases this is
not needed. Simply use the REPEAT 1 command. But, if you do not wish the
repeater to repeat all packets, you may manually configure the Repeater Table
within the M8. The Repeater Table is a table of IDs that the M8S should repeat.
It contains a range of IDs and a mask. There may be up to 4 entries in the
Repeater Table, each with a different range of IDs that should be repeated.
Important: The Unit ID of the repeater must be unique in the system. No other
radio modem in the system can have the ID of the repeater.
Data is transmitted over-the-air in bursts called packets, and each packet has the
Unit ID of the M8S that sent the data and the Destination ID of the unit that the
data is intended for.
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
Figure 2 Overview of Repeater Operation
In the example shown in Figure 3 above, M8S A is will communicate with all
other modems in the system. It can directly communicate with B, H, and F.
Because of propagation limits, it cannot communicate reliable to E, D, C, and G.
To solve this problem, some of the M8S modems are configured as repeaters.
The still are able to send and receive data, but they also will repeat data out to
the modems that are out of range of M8S A.
H is configured to repeat all messages to/from E, D, and G. B is configured to
repeat all messages to/from C, and D is configured to repeat all messages
to/from G.
The following table illustrates one possible way the M8s could be programmed to
accomplish this type of system.
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M8
Unit ID
(ATMY)
Destination
(ATDT)
Network
Mask
(ATMK)
Addresses programmed into unit
Repeat
Source
Repeat
Source
Mask
Repeat
Destination
Repeat
Destination
Mask
Repeater table programmed into unit
1000
1010
1000
1000
FF00
FF00
1020
1000
FFFF
FFFF
1000
1000
FFFF
FFFF
1020
1030
1000
1000
FF00
FF00
1031
FFFF
1000
FFFF
1000
FFFF
1000
FFFF
1030
FFFF
1000
FFFF
1000
FFF0
1000
FFFF
1032
1021
1031
1022
1000
1000
1000
1000
FF00
FF00
FF00
FF00
Store-and-forward repeating is manually enabled with the ATXR command.
ATXR 1 enables repeating. ATXR 0 disables it. Unlike the REPEAT x command
which configures the repeater table to repeat all packets, the ATXR 1 enables
the feature but does not configure the Repeater Table.
The Repeat Source, Repeat Source Mask, and the Repeat Destination are
programmed into a Repeater Table in the M8. The ATX command is used to
program the Repeater Table. The Repeater Table may have up to 4 entries.
For example, M8S B in the above example will have two entries in its Repeater
Table. The command to set the two entries is:
ATX1 1020 FFFF 1000 FFFF
ARX2 1000 FFFF 1000 FFFF
The first command above sets the Repeat Source to 1020 and the Repeat
Destination to 1000, both with a Mask of FFFF. The FFFF mask means all digits
of the source and destination are used to determine if the transmission should be
repeated. All packets from units with MYID 1020 (C) sent to 1000 will be
repeated by this unit. It will not repeat messages from D, E, F, G, or H because
their Unit IDs are not in the Repeat Source repeater table.
The second command above sets the Repeat Source to 1000 and the Repeat
Destination to 1000, both with a Mask of FFFF. The FFFF mask means all digits
of the source and destination are used to determine if the transmission should be
repeated. All packets from units with MYID 1000 (A)sent 1000 will be repeated
by this unit. In other words, all transmissions from A will be repeated by B.
To view the Repeater Table, use the ATX command, with no parameter. To view
a single entry in the table, use the ATXn, where n=1, 2, 3, or 4.
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To delete an entry in the table so it has no effect on the operation, set the fields
to 0. For example, to disable entry 1, use the ATX1 0 0 0 0 command.
There can be an issue with regard to store-and-forward repeating and busy
channels, particularly on polled systems. Raveon’s M8S wireless modem has a
number of provisions in it to make store-and-forward repeating work smoothly.
For example, in the diagram above, assume A is the master station, and C is a
remote station being polled. When the store-and-forward repeater B sees a
packet it should repeat, immediately upon reception of the packet, it keys its
transmitter and repeats the packet. The scenario that can cause problems is if
the end receiving station C actually heard the original transmission from A. In a
polled scenario, the end station C will typically then respond to the poll, and want
to transmit. Station C’s transmission can happen at the same time as the
repeater B is trying to repeat the original transmission.
This contention can be reduced/eliminated in the following ways:
1. Turn busy-channel lock-out on (ATBC 1) on all modems. This stops them from transmitting
on a busy channel (stops them from transmitting when the repeater is transmitting).
2. Set the serial port baud-rate on the end-stations to be fairly slow (ATBD x). Thus, when they
receive a poll request, there is a delay as they send data in/out of their serial ports, and
during this delay, the repeater can do its thing.
3. Increase the serial port time-out value from 20mS to say 250mS (ATR3 250). Then, when
the polled station responds, there is a 250mS delay before the end station’s data gets sent
out over the air. This gives a little gap for the repeater to use for repeating messages.
4. Any combination of 1-3.
M8S radio modems will not repeat or receive duplicate versions of the same data
packet. If two repeaters are used in the same system, each will repeat a
transmission only one time, even if they are within communication range of each
other. A repeater will not repeat a transmission if it was the originator of the
transmission. If another M8S in the system has the same ID as the repeater, the
repeater will not repeat data from that particular unit. The repeater’s ID must be
unique in the system.
If a M8S is configured as a repeater, and is also used to send and receive data, it
will not repeat any transmission that it originated. M8S checks the ID of the
station that originated the transmission to determine if the message should be
repeated. If the transmission was originated by a station with the same Unit ID
as the Unit ID in the receiving station, the data will not be repeated. This is why it
is important to have a different ID for each M8S modem in a network that uses
repeaters.
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8. Debug Related Commands
Bench Testing
(Must be in command mode to test. Enter +++ at the keyboard to put unit into config/test mode.)
ATTD x
Various transmit test routines.
0 = Go back to normal mode. Stops the test.
1 = Random data transmit.
2 = Hop up/down one channel
3 = Force PLL to fast lock mode
4 = Transmit all 0s
5 = Transmit all 1s
6 = Enable the test points on the PCB.
7 = Transmit CW on center of channel
8 = Transmit preamble (101010 pattern)
ML x
Debug Message Level. By default and at power on, this level is set to 0
(no debug messages).
0 = no debug or diagnostic messages
1 = POCSAG and data reception realated message will come out serial port
2 = Verbose messages, Mostly used for factory and engineering puroises.
SHOW
Display an overview of the configuration.
Ping xxxx
Ping another modem over the air. Transmits a request to xxxx to see if
xxxx can hear the sending station. If it does, it answers with a response
transmission, containing its ID and the signal strength of the reception. .
STAT
Display statistics of how the modem is working.
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
9. Diagnostic Provisions
9.1. Overview of Diagnostics
Internal to the M8S radio modem, is a powerful 32-bit microprocessor. Along
with handing all aspects of radio modulation and demodulation, the
microprocessor also maintains an extensive array of diagnostic information.
This section details the diagnostic information available, and describes how to us
the information to optimize or troubleshoot a M8S radio network.
9.2. Reading the Diagnostic Information
M8S diagnostic information is read using AT commands, while the unit is in the
Command Mode. Refer to the section “User Serial Port Commands” to learn
how to put the M8S modem into the Command Mode.
To see a general overview of how the modem has been operating, us the ATST
command (status request command), without any parameter. The radio modem
will respond with a list of certain operation statistics that it maintains. All statistics
start counting at 0. The ATST 1 command can be used to reset all statistics
back to 0, except the run-time timers.
Other operation and configuration statistics are available using the ATST
command, with a parameter to specify the desired statistic. The following table
describes the various statistics available.
9.3. Status and Statistics Command
AT
Command
Command Description
Response
ST
General Communication Statistics – This command will cause the
M8S to output a table of various operational statistics.
Statistics
overview screen
ST2
Low-level internal statistics – Returns various low-level statistics.
These are subject to change in various firmware revisions.
Low-level
statistics screen
ST3
Compile date and time – Returns the data and the time that the
firmware was compiled.
ST4
Run Time – Returns the amount of time that the modem has been
powered up and running.
ST9
Reset all statistics counters
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Date and time
Run time display
screen
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10. Tune-up and Alignment
The M8S modem has been factory calibrated, in should not require any recalibration when installed, or when changing frequency or channel. Unless the
user is trained in radio test and calibration, the values stored in the R registers
should not be modified. Radio calibration and alignment is performed using the
ATRx commands.
Improper adjustment of the radio calibration (R0-R9 and RA registers), can
result in failure of the radio modem.
Calibration and alignment values are stored internal to the modem in the “R”
registers. (R0-R9 and RA). For example, to read R5, issue the ATR8 command
without any parameter. To change the setting, issue the ATR8 nn command,
where nn is the new value you would like to store.
Once you read a register using an ATRx command, you may modify its value by
entering a “U” for up or a “D” for down. U or D will change the value by one. Use
this trick carefully, because it modifies the last R register that was read, and it is
easy to unintentionally modify the wrong register.
10.1. Periodic Calibration
The only setting that may require adjustment is the center frequency. After years
of operation, all crystals will age and change frequency slightly. The ATR8
command is used to adjust the center frequency. Like all narrow-band radios,
semi-annual checks and adjustment of frequency is recommended.
10.2. Calibration Commands
The following AT commands are used to calibrate the M8. Do not ever change
these unless you have been factory trained to do so.
AT
Command
R0
R1
Command Description
Symbol Peak Deviation – Set the peak FM deviation of
the transmit symbols. Note: This can be a negative
number to invert the modulation.
Select CD pin output signal – CD pin may be RF
carrier detect, or modem data detect, off, on, or RX data
framing, or on-line status. Line status mode asserts CD
when on-line in normal modem operation and it negates
CD when in the command mode.
Parameters
Range: -1000 – 1000
Factory
Default
120**
Range : 0 - 5
5 = RX data framing. Assert
when outputting data
4 = Line stat.
3 = Always negate CD
2 = Always assert CD
1 = Data CD
0 = RF CD
(RF Carrier)
Range:
R2
Over-The-Air bit rate - This is the data rate the radio
uses to send data over the air. All RF modems in the
network must use the same over-the-air baud rate.
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0 = 800
1 = 1200
2 = 2400
3 = 4800
4 = 8000 4L
5 = 9600 2L
6 = 19200 4L
7 = 5142 2L
8 = 9600 4L
9 = 2000 2L
Raveon Technologies Corp.
R3
Serial Port time out – Number of mS of no activity on
the serial port before transmitting the data in its buffer.
R5
Preamble length – The number of bytes to send overthe-air in the pre-amble.
20 (mS)
Range: 1 - 5000
4**
R8
Frequency Offset. Used to set the radio on the center of
R9
RA
Range: 3 - 255
(Varies based
on data rate
and radio
type. 7 typical)
Range: -500 to +500
0**
Modulation Balance.
Range: 0-100
20**
Select RF CD output threshold – This value is the
RSSI threshold where the carrier detect is asserted.
Note: To force CD always on, set this to 0, and R1 to RF
Carrier Detect.
Range : 0 thru -127
the radio channel.
-110
10.3. Center Frequency
1. Key the transmitter with CW output using this command:
ATTD 7
2. The modem will now put out CW on the center of the channel.
3. Read the frequency offset with the ATR8 command.
4. Adjust the frequency to the center of the channel with the ATR8
command. You can use the “U” key and the “D” key to change the
settings up and down one value in real time.
10.4. TX Deviation
1. Switch to channel 1.
2. Key the transmitter into a 50 ohm load using the ATTD 3 command. The
unit will now transmit, and send a digital 0 continuously. This should be
+2.0kHz in frequency for narrow-band radios (12.5kHz spaced channels)
and +4.0kHz for wide-band (25kHz channels).
3. Adjust the deviation register setting so that the frequency deviation is
correct. The deviation is set with a digital adjustment. Use the ATR0
command to read or set the deviation level.
10.5. TX Modulation Balance
(Note: This step is not performed on radios with Radio Type 5)
1. Set-up a service monitor to monitor the FM deviation of the transmitted
signal on an oscilloscope. The frequency response of the demodulated
FM signal must be greater than 10Hz to 5kHz without any de-emphasis.
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
2. Transmit random data on the center of the band, using the ATTD 1
command. This command will cause the M8S to automatically key up,
and send random data for one minute.
3. Verify the DC center of the demodulated data is stable. The random data
should be randomly timed 1s and 0s, and have little to no AC component
on them. See pictures below for details.
4. If necessary, change the ATR9 setting so that the long data bit have the
same amplitude and DC value as the shorter ones.
5. On the low end of the band, adjust ATRL so that the modulation is proper.
6. On the high end of the bamd, adjust ATRH so that the modulation is
proper.
10.6. Carrier Detect
The Carrier Detect (CD) signal from the modem is output on pin 3. It may be
asserted by the detection of RF, using an internal signal called RSSI (Receive
Signal Strength Indication). The RSSI signal is an analog signal representing the
strength of the RF carrier. It is compared with a pre-set value, and if it is above
this value, Carrier Detect is asserted. The pre-set value may be change with the
ATRA command.
Note: “Asserted” means low. “Negated” means high. The CD pin will sit at about
3.3V when CD is not asserted. A digital 1 (3.3V) on the CD pin is the standard
convention used to indicate no carrier detect. This allows the digital signals like
the CD pin to be connected to standard RS232 line driver circuits and operated
with the correct polarity.
Mode 0 - RF CD
On this line the modem indicates to the DTE that it has received a carrier from a
remote device. It will assert this signal any time there is a carrier detected. The
modem may be configured to assert this when an RF carrier is detected (any onchannel RF, voice or data), assert it only when another RF modem signal is
detected, or always assert it. The operation of this line is configured with the
ATR1 command. The default is 1 (asserts when M7 data is detected on the radio
receiver).
Mode 1 - Data CD
In this mode, the CD pin is asserted whenever the modem detect a valid data
modem signal on the air. If RF is present, but it is voice or some non-data single,
then the CD pin is negated.
Mode 2 - CD ON
In this mode, the CD pin is always asserted.
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
Mode 3 - CD OFF
In this mode, the CD pin is always negated.
Mode 4 - Output Data Framing
To enable the Output Data Framing feature, set ATR1 to 4, set ATS120 to the
number of mS for the Pre-Data Time, and ATS121 to the number of mS for the
Post-Data Time.
Ouput Data Framing is used when it is necessary for the serial terminal to wake
from sleep or enter an appropriate mode to receive data. In this mode, the
Carrier Detect handshaking line is nominally low and only goes high to signal that
data is being output. The Pre-Data and Post-Data time can be set from 0-254ms,
as indicated in the diagram below. The CD signal will normally stay low (near 0
volts), and when the Output Data Framing takes place, it will go high (about 3V).
If Output Data Framing is enabled, any other Carrier Detect and flow control
output configuration is ignored.
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
11. Troubleshooting
Symptom: Unit will not receive
Solution #1. Verify that the modem is on the correct RF channel. If it is, the RX LED should
blink every time another modem tries to transmit to it. If the RX LED does not blink when it
should be receiving, it is on the wrong RF frequency.
Soultion #2. If the addresses match, and RX LED blinks but still no reception of data, verify
that the RTS signal is asserted. The M8S will not output data if the RTS signal on the DB-9 I/O
connector is not asserted. If the user’s hardware cannot assert the RTS hardware line, disable
hardware flow control in the M8S modem, using the ATCH 0 command.
Solution #3. If the status RX LED blinks green when a different unit transmits, verify that the
Unit Address of the sending modem matches the unit address of the receiving modem. If this is
OK, verify that the over-the-air baud rate of all modems is the same (ATR2 command).
Solution #4. Verify Low Power Mode. The M8S has an optional Low Power Mode (LPM). If
LPM is enabled, the M8S will power down whenever the DTR line of the serial port is turned off.
The Power LED will blink once every 10 seconds in the LPM mode. The ATSM command is
used to set or read the Low Power Mode. ATSM 1 enables it, and ATSM 0 disables it. If LPM is
used (ATSM 1), then the M8S will turn off when the DTR line is off, or the program connected to
the serial port is closed, or the RS-232 connector is un plugged.
Symptom: Unit will not transmit
Solution #1. Verify that CTS is wired. Some devices that could be connected to the M8S will
require the CTS signal to be asserted. The M8S does assert this signal, but if the wire is not
connected, you device may not be outputting data to the M8. If the TX LED blinks, the M8S is
transmitting data. Every time data enters the modem, the TX LED should blink
Solution #2. Verify that serial port timeout is OK. The ATG0 command sets the number of
microseconds that the M8S will look for in the serial input data stream. If a pause greater than
this value happens, the modem will transmit. If the ATG0 paramter is set very large, say
2000000, this means 2 seconds, and the modem may simply be waiting a long time
Solution #3. Verify that the radio channel is clear or BCL is off. The ATBC 1 command
enables Busy Channel Lockout. If BCL is on, the modem will not transmit on a busy channel.
The ATBC 0 command turns it off, and thus the modem will transmit when it needs to, regardless
if the channel is busy. The RX led on the front of the modem is illuminated whenever the radio
channel is busy (RF present).
Solution #4. Verify Low Power Mode. The M8S has an optional Low Power Mode (LPM). If
LPM is enabled, the M8S will power down whenever the DTR line of the serial port is turned off.
The Power LED will blink once every 10 seconds in the LPM mode. The ATSM command is
used to set or read the Low Power Mode. ATSM 1 enables it, and ATSM 0 disables it. If LPM is
used (ATSM 1), then the M8S will turn off when the DTR line is off, or the program connected to
the serial port is closed, or the RS-232 connector is un plugged.
Symptom: Receive light blinks, but no data is received
Solution #1. Verify Input/Output Configuration. The M8S has numerous I/O options. RS232
is standard, but Ethernet, RS485 or RS422 may be configured also. Use the ATIO command to
view how the I/O is configured. ATIO 0 is the default (RS232 mode).
Solution #2. Verify the serial port baud rate. This is difficult if it is set wrong, because you
cannot enter the command mode to check it. Try all possible baud rates, and see if one of them
works with the modem. Alternately, remove the rear cover of the modem, and press the CONFIG
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Raveon Technologies Corp.
button. This will force the modem into the Command Mode, as well as set the serial port to 9600
baud, 8 data bits, one stop, and no parity. If the baud-rate was OK, verify the AT, BT and CT
times, that they are long enough for you to enter the +++ string.
Symptom: Long delay before transmitting
Solution #1. Verify that serial port timeout is OK. The ATR3 command sets the number of
milliseconds that the M8S will look for in the serial input data stream. If a pause greater than this
value happens, the modem will transmit. If the ATG0 parameter is set very large, say 2000, this
means 2 seconds, and the modem may simply be waiting a long time. Typical settings for this
parameter are 20 (20mS).
Symptom: Cannot enter Command Mode
Solution #1. Verify the serial port baud rate. This is difficult if it is set wrong, because you
cannot enter the command mode to check it. Try all possible baud rates, and see if one of them
works with the modem. Alternately, remove the rear cover of the modem, and press the CONFIG
button. This will force the modem into the Command Mode, as well as set the serial port to 9600
baud, 8 data bits, one stop, and no parity. If the baud-rate was OK, verify the AT, BT and CT
times, that they are long enough for you to enter the +++ string.
Solution #2. Handshaking. You may have hardware handshaking enabled on your terminal
program, but the hardware or cable may not support it. Disable hardware handshaking on your
terminal program to verify this is the issue.
Symptom: Modem appears dead.
Solution #1. Verify the power is on. When the modem has good DC power, the PWR LED
will blink once per second. If it is not blinking, either the modem does not have power, the
modem is broken, or the LEDs have been disabled via the ATL0 command.
Solution #2. Verify Low Power Mode. The M8S has an optional Low Power Mode (LPM). If
LPM is enabled, the M8S will power down whenever the DTR line of the serial port is turned off.
The Power LED will blink once every 10 seconds in the LPM mode. The ATSM command is
used to set or read the Low Power Mode. ATSM 1 enables it, and ATSM 0 disables it. If LPM is
used (ATSM 1), then the M8S will turn off when the DTR line is off, or the program connected to
the serial port is closed, or the RS-232 connector is un plugged.
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12. Mechanical
A drawing is shown below.
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Raveon Technologies Corp.

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