RIM GPRS Radio Modem 1902G, 1902GS, 1802G, 1802GS Integrator Guide Version 1.
RIM GPRS Radio Modem 1902G, 1902GS, 1802G, 1802GS Integrator Guide Last revised: 05 March 2002 Part number: PDF-04522-001 Rev1 The information in this document is RIM confidential and is for internal distribution only. © 1997-2002 Research In Motion Limited. All Rights Reserved. The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties of Research In Motion Limited.
NOTE This document is provided for informational purposes only, and does not constitute a binding legal document unless specifically incorporated by reference into a binding legal agreement between you and Research In Motion (RIM). In the event that you enter into a binding legal agreement with RIM, all provisions contained in such binding legal agreement shall apply, regardless of whether such provisions conflict with information contained herein.
Contents CHAPTER 1 About this guide ............................................................................ 9 Related documentation .................................................................. 9 CHAPTER 2 Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem ............................ 11 Applications........................................................................... 12 Radio performance................................................................ 13 Receiver sensitivity .......................
CHAPTER 4 Setting up the test board ............................................................ 23 Test board overview ..................................................................... 23 RS-232 interface ..................................................................... 24 On/off switch ......................................................................... 24 Test points .............................................................................. 24 Power supply...............................
Power supply parameters .................................................... 39 Ripple specification............................................................... 40 Batteries .......................................................................................... 40 Rechargeable batteries.......................................................... 41 Single-use batteries ............................................................... 42 Plug-in supplies.....................................................
CHAPTER 9 Specifications............................................................................... 65 Power supply & typical current usage............................... 65 RF properties.......................................................................... 65 Serial communications ......................................................... 65 Other features ........................................................................ 66 Mechanical & environmental properties ..............................
Chapter 1 About this guide This guide explains how to integrate the RIM GPRS Radio Modem into a variety of devices such as laptop computers, handhelds, vending machines, point-of-sale terminals, vehiclebased mobile terminals, and alarm systems.
About this guide 10 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 2 Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem With the introduction of the RIM GPRS Radio Modem, RIM sets a new standard for radio modem performance. Its small size and weight makes it suitable for virtually any wireless data and voice application, including handheld devices and mobile terminals. Its multislot class allows for the highest possible download rates allowed using a single receiver on a GPRS network.
Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem Model Description 1902G This model was designed for use with GPRS and GSM wide-area wireless data/voice networks operating in the 1900 and 850 MHz range in the United States, including VoiceStream Wireless and Cingular Interactive. It is identical to the 1902GS, but has an off-board SIM card.
Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem Radio performance The RIM GPRS Radio Modem offers very high radio performance for use with GPRS wireless data networks. Receiver sensitivity Receiver sensitivity is a measure of how well the radio modem can receive and decode data from a network base station. This figure is important when a device is used in areas where signal strength is weak, such as inside buildings and in locations that are not close to a base station.
Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem Powerful and efficient transmitter When necessary, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem can supply a full 1.0 watt at 1900 MHz. However, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem quickly decreases the output power when it is close to a base station because a stronger signal is needed only when far from a base station. By transmitting a strong signal only when necessary, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem conserves battery power and ensures a balanced link.
Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem upgrade. Many GSM network providers have already supplemented their networks with GPRS capability.
Introduction to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem 16 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 3 Getting Started RIM is committed to facilitating RIM GPRS Radio Modem integration. RIM provides resources for you to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a wireless communication solution and works closely with partners to develop an application in the shortest time possible. The Integrator’s Kit includes several tools to help streamline the evaluation and integration process. Using the kit, you can quickly interface the radio modem to your computing device.
Chapter 3: Getting Started Integration overview The following flowchart illustrates the integration process.
Integration overview Contact the RIM OEM team Email OEMinquiry@rim.net or call (519) 888-7465 x5200 to obtain more information about RIM Radio Modem products and whether they are suitable for your application. Obtain Integrator's Kit You can request the Integrator’s Kit from Research In Motion. This kit includes the radio modem, a mechanical sample of the radio, an interface and test board, AC to DC power supply, required cables, magnetic mount antenna, and documentation.
Chapter 3: Getting Started For more information on testing, visit http://www.rim.net/oem/ or contact the RIM at oemsupport@rim.net. Start Development Plan your project carefully before starting development. You must address several important considerations when planning your design. To speed up the development process, you can often perform several procedures in parallel. Contact RIM at oemsupport@rim.net for further details.
Integration overview Conduct Field Trials Start product field trials to ensure performance and reliability. Perform Certification Choose a testing lab to perform FCC or Industry Canada certification and any applicable network certification. Before sending your product for testing, contact RIM to ensure that the solution is set up properly for testing. For more information, visit http://www.rim.net/oem/.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 22 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 4 Setting up the test board Test board overview The RIM test board provides a standard RS-232 serial interface between a computer and the radio modem. The test board helps you interface the RIM GPRS Radio Modem to a standard computer using a COM port or to a terminal device using a RS-232 serial port. The test board also provides access points to the radio’s communication port, which enables you to monitor activity with a logic probe, multimeter, or oscilloscope.
Chapter 4: Setting up the test board RS-232 interface The serial (COM) port on a computer and most terminal devices operates at RS-232 signal levels, which are typically ±12V. This high voltage would damage the RIM GPRS Radio Modem, which is typically integrated into a device that operates an asynchronous serial port at 3.0V. The RS-232 interface on the test board allows you to produce an output from the radio that is easily interpreted by a PC.
Connecting the test board Standard SIM Slot The test board includes a SIM slot for use with standard 3V SIM cards. The SIM card is necessary in order to access GSM/GPRS networks. Microphone/Speaker Jack The test board includes a microphone/speaker jack for use with the headset included in the Integrator's Kit. This allows the integrator to take full advantage of the GSM circuit switched voice network underlying the GPRS networks.
Chapter 4: Setting up the test board When you insert the cable, verify that the side with the bare pins is in direct contact with the pin side of the connector. To ensure proper contact, do not force the cable into the connector; instead, pull the tabs on either side of the connector, slide the cable in, then push the tabs back in. Connecting the SIM to the radio Note: This task only applies to the 1802G and 1902G models.
Connecting the test board Connecting the test board to an AC outlet Plug the 5VDC, 2.4A, center-pin-positive power adapter into the wall outlet. Connect the other end to the power jack of the test board. Connecting the antenna to the radio The Integrator’s Kit includes a high-performance, 6 dB-gain magmount antenna, which is terminated with a screw-on SMA plug. The radio modem includes a snap-on MMCX jack.
Chapter 4: Setting up the test board 28 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 5 Integrating the radio modem This chapter explains how to determine the position of the radio modem within an application, including the following topics: • environmental properties • physical properties • mounting methods • connectors Environmental properties Environmental testing ensures that RIM products can withstand both typical and extreme real-world conditions. During environmental testing, RIM takes samples of its radio modems and subjects them to a variety of harsh conditions.
Chapter 5: Integrating the radio modem Operating temperature The RIM GPRS Radio Modem operates between -30°C to 70°C (-22°F to 158°F). Warning: The end user should be careful not to exceed the upper temperature limit, as performance degradation or damage to the power amplifier can occur past this point, especially during transmission. Physical properties Weight The RIM GPRS Radio Modem weighs 35 g (1.2 oz), including the case. Dimensions RIM radio modems meet stringent space requirements.
Mounting methods Mounting methods RIM radio modems can be securely fastened using a variety of methods. You must consider the operating environment when choosing a mounting option. For example, extreme temperature, heavy vibration, or high electromagnetic interference areas can require a special mounting solution. You must ensure that the radio modem remains securely attached in the environment where it is used.
Chapter 5: Integrating the radio modem Bolts or standoffs The radio modem includes a hole in each corner, which can be used to bolt the device onto a circuit board, device housing, standoffs, or other surface. The mounting hole pattern is four holes in a 62.5-by-36.5 mm rectangle, with each hole 2.5 mm in diameter. To allow room under the radio for components on your board, you can use standoffs instead of bolts, as illustrated in the following diagram.
Cables and connectors Tie wraps Tie wraps can be used as a secure but non-permanent means of attaching the radio modem to a surface. Typically, each tie wrap passes through a hole drilled into the surface of the board, on either side of the radio modem. This enables the radio to be attached to a shell, a PCB, or some other mounting surface. If you are using tie wraps, ensure that the surface beneath the radio modem is flat.
Chapter 5: Integrating the radio modem • SIM interface cable (G models only) • antenna connector Radio interface cable and connector The radio interface connector connects the radio modem to a serial computing device, speaker and microphone, and power supply. Serial communication data, control signals, and power are carried on a flat 22-conductor 0.30 mm (0.012 inches) thick flexible printed circuit (FPC) cable with 1-mm centerline spacing, which can plug into a matching connector.
Cables and connectors The 6-pin interface cable supplied with the RIM GPRS Radio Modem Developer's Kit is a 76.2 mm (3.0") long Flat Flex Cable (FFC) Jumper with 1.00 mm centerline spacing and same side conductive surfaces, Parlex part number 100-6-76-B. This cable can plug into a matching 6-position 1.0 [0.039] horizontal FPC connector. A variety of connectors are manufactured by AMP/Tyco Electronics, including AMP part number 487951-6.
Chapter 5: Integrating the radio modem Contact: Amp / Tyco Electronics General Information Harrisburg, PA, USA tel: (800) 522-6752 fax: (717) 986-7575 www.amp.com Molex Headquarters Lisle, IL, USA Tel: (630) 969-4550 Fax: (630) 969-1352 email: amerinfo@molex.com http://www.molex.com Molex Electronics Ltd. Toronto, ON, Canada Tel: (416) 292-1444 Fax: (416) 292-2922 Parlex Corporation Flexible Circuits Products Methuen, MA, USA tel: (978) 685-4341 fax: (978) 685-8809 email: flexcircuits@parlex.com www.
Cables and connectors larger than SMA. The antenna cable supplied with the Integrator’s Kit has an MMCX connector on one end and an SMA connector on the other. The cable is built with strain reliefs to prevent damage. Huber & Suhner provides antenna cables and connectors. The parts described below have an impedance of 50 Ω and are suitable for use with the RIM GPRS Radio Modem.
Chapter 5: Integrating the radio modem Contact: Huber & Suhner Essex Junction, VT, USA Tel: (802) 878-0555 Fax: (802) 878-9880 http://www.hubersuhnerinc.
Chapter 6 Power Requirements The RIM GPRS Radio Modem requires a clean power source capable of delivering bursts of high current. This power source can be provided by a plug-in power supply unit, a rechargeable battery pack, or by single-use batteries. Load specifications The RIM GPRS Radio Modem draws its power in bursts; the power required changes rapidly depending on whether the radio is transmitting, receiving, or idle.
Chapter 6: Power Requirements For the RIM GPRS hardware integration to be fully compatible with the RIM 902M and RIM 802D radio modems, ensure the power input to the radio modem is above 4.1 Volts. Please contact the RIM OEM Engineering Development team for further details on backwards compatibility. Ripple specification For best performance, ripple of less than 15 mV peak-to-peak (measured at the radio end of the connector) is recommended across the frequency range 60 Hz to 1 MHz.
Batteries Rechargeable batteries Nickel cadmium RIM recommends using rechargeable nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries to power the RIM GPRS Radio Modem for battery-operated applications that require a wide operating temperature range. Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium ion (Li+) cells can also be used with good results, but many such cells do not work very well at temperatures below freezing. Batteries specifications should be obtained from the manufacturer.
Chapter 6: Power Requirements Single-use batteries Among single-use cells, only alkaline and lithium cells provide the high current necessary for transmission. In particular, AA alkaline cells are inexpensive, widely available, and provide an excellent power source. Alkaline cells typically run about four times longer than similar-size NiCad cells, and about three times longer than similar-size NiMH cells.
Automotive supplies Commonly, in automotive applications, voltages may be as high as 70 V on the battery, especially on startup. Commercial automotive adapters are available that safely convert the 12 V automotive supply to a regulated supply suitable for operating the RIM radio modem.
Chapter 6: Power Requirements 44 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 7 Interface specification The asynchronous serial interface on the RIM GPRS Radio Modem operates at 3.0V, making it compatible with many existing system designs. The radio modem can be controlled by a wide variety of microcontrollers and microprocessors, such as the Intel 8051 or 80386, or Motorola 68000. In most cases, the RIM GPRS Radio Modem can be connected directly to a micro-controller, or through a Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) to a microprocessor data bus.
Chapter 7: Interface specification AT Commands Command Description V.25ter The V.25ter commands correspond to the basic commands of AT Hayes-compatible modems applicable for GSM 07.07. Examples of such commands include answering incoming calls, switching modes, and redialling. GSM 07.07 The GSM 07.07 commands are for remote control of GSM functionality, including phone book functionality. Example of such commands includes selecting bearer service types, entering PIN's, and changing passwords. GSM 07.
SIM Interface Pins Pin 1 Description VCC. This line supplies the SIM with power. Verify that it leads to the VCC pin of the SIM card connector. It may be necessary to filter noise on the line to prevent a fault from occurring. Please refer to the diagram in the next section as an example. 2 Reset. This is an output from the radio. Verify that it leads to the Reset pin of the SIM card connector. 3 Clock. This is an output from the radio. Verify that it leads to the Clock pin of the SIM card connector.
Chapter 7: Interface specification Radio Interface Pins This section describes the purpose of each of the 22 lines that comprise the radio interface to the RIM GPRS Radio Modem. Overview Pins 1-4 Pins 1 to 4 were introduced to take advantage of the GPRS data network’s underlying GSM voice infrastructure. The differential nature of the analog lines provides high voice quality and noise immunity. Pins 5-22 Input and output lines from pins 5 to 22 are 3.
Radio Interface Pins Note: The symbol ~ before the label indicates that line is an active low digital signal. Pin descriptions The following table lists each pin and describes it in detail. Pin Label 1 MIC N 2 MIC P Description This pin is not used in this release. Analog Microphone Input This is an analog input to the radio. 3 SPK N Audio Ground This is an analog reference signal for pin 2 and pin 4. 4 SPK P Speaker Signal. This is an analog speaker output from the radio.
Chapter 7: Interface specification Pin 9 Label GND Description Ground This line should be tied to the system ground of the computing device to ensure proper operation. Pin 18 should also be connected to ground. 10 TURNON Turn Radio On This line is an input to the radio. This line turns on the radio unit. It is a digital signal that eliminates the need for an on/off switch for the power supply to the radio modem. This is a 3.0 V input to the radio, and is not 5.0 V tolerant.
Radio Interface Pins Pin 14 Label ~RI Description ~Ring Indicate This line is an output from the radio modem. When ~DTR is not asserted (high), the radio modem asserts ~RI (low) to indicate that it has data waiting for the computing device. The radio modem does not transfer the data until ~DTR is asserted (low). This line can be used to wake up a suspended computing device when the radio modem needs to communicate with it.
Chapter 7: Interface specification Pin 19 Label ~DTR Description ~Data Terminal Ready This line is a digital input to the radio. The active, data terminal ready (DTR), state of this line is low, and indicates that the computing device is ready to receive data from the radio modem. De-asserting this line high turns communication off; the radio modem does not attempt to deliver data to the computing device until ~DTR is again asserted low.
Turning the radio on and off Turning the radio on and off To determine the current state of the radio, observe the ONI line. If ONI is high, the radio is on or in the process of shutting off. If ONI is low, the radio is off or in the process of turning on. The TURNON pin is a digital signal that turns the radio on and off. It eliminates the need for a power switch across the power supply to the radio. There are also AT commands that can turn the radio on and off in the same manner as the TURNON line.
Chapter 7: Interface specification Note: All inputs to the radio should be low when the radio is turned off. This ensures that power consumption will be reduced to the lowest possible levels. Data that has been received by a RIM GPRS Radio Modem from the network, but has not been transferred to the computing device, will not be saved. The data will be lost when the unit enters shutdown or is turned off.
Loading firmware (optional) This external serial port can also be useful for FCC certification testing, and it is highly recommended that this be incorporated into at least one device designated for testing purposes.
Chapter 7: Interface specification 56 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 8 Antenna selection The antenna is one of the most important components of a wireless communication system. The right antenna will maximize the coverage area of the RIM radio modem. The antenna that you choose should suit your project’s needs. There are many different antenna types and options that will meet your engineering and user requirements and remain within budget constraints. We strongly recommend the use of an experienced antenna provider in order to realize the highest gain possible.
Chapter 8: Antenna selection electromagnetic radiation that would otherwise be lost to the antenna. This reflection effectively doubles the length of the antenna by creating a virtual “mirror image” of the antenna beneath the plane. Antenna requirements The following are the minimum requirements of the antenna system used with the RIM GPRS radio modems. Further minimum requirements are pending.
Introduction to antenna terminology Radiated Power, or ERP. For example, if the radio modem delivers 2.0 W of power to a 2.3 dBd gain antenna, the ERP is 2.0 × 10^(2.3÷10) = 3.4 W, the actual power radiated by the antenna in the direction of maximum gain and polarization. Impedance matching, return loss, and VSWR The antenna, cables, and connectors in a radio frequency system must all possess the same impedance.
Chapter 8: Antenna selection VSWR and RL normally vary as a function of frequency. Antenna size The optimal antenna radiation efficiency is produced by an antenna measuring one wavelength, l. The value of l for the RIM GPRS Radio Modem is calculated by dividing the speed of light c = 3 x 108 m/s by the center frequency. Antenna lengths of λ/2, λ/4, and λ/8 also work well, and usually result in a relatively well matched antenna.
Antenna design considerations radio modem is in use. In small, hand-held devices, it may be convenient to design the unit in such a way that the antenna folds out of the way when not in use. Proximity to active electronics The antenna should be located as far from the active electronics of the computing device as possible. In general, metal construction in the case of the computing device and its internal components may attenuate the signal in certain directions.
Chapter 8: Antenna selection Antenna cable For best results, the antenna should be connected directly to the antenna cable. If you require an extension cable, it should be low loss, as short as possible, and have an impedance of 50 Ω.. You must use a proper matching connector because each connector in the signal path introduces a return loss and reduces performance.
Shielding “Examining the options available, and choosing an antenna early in the development process, can only benefit the performance and aesthetic appeal of a product. The engineering staff at Larsen Antenna Technologies are experts in this field with over 30 years of experience in helping OEMs reach their antenna design and production objectives.
Chapter 8: Antenna selection 64 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Chapter 9 Specifications The following is a summary of the RIM GPRS radio modems specifications. Power supply & typical current usage Preliminary values. Final values are yet to be determined • Single power supply; operating range: 3.5 to 4.75V DC • Transmit mode: up to 2 A (at 4.2V, output 1.0W) RF properties • Transmit frequency: 1850 to 1910 MHz and 824 to 829 MHz • 1.
Chapter 9: Specifications • Second 3-wire serial port (TX, RX, GND) • Link speed: 1200 to 115,200 bps Other features • ARM Processor running at 32.5 MHz • Software can activate/deactivate radio • Flow control options: Hardware, Xon/Xoff, or None • Radio parameters stored at power down • Terminal devices may power-down while radio-modem remains operational • Fully shielded metal enclosure Mechanical & environmental properties • Weight: 35 g (1.2 oz), including case • Footprint: 42.
Chapter 10 Glossary
Chapter 10: Glossary Term Meaning APN Access Point Name. GPRS network provider's name for a given external network. CBS Cell Broadcast Service. Unacknowledged general short messages to all receivers within a defined geographical area dB Decibel measures power based on a logarithmic scale. 10 dB = 10 times, 3 dB = 2 times, –10 dB = 0.1 times. FPC Flexible Printed Circuit. The interface cable on the RIM GPRS Radio Modem is made using this type of flat multi-conductor wiring.
Term Polarity Meaning Direction of current flow. Connecting some cables with the wrong polarity (i.e. backward) may damage the device. QoS Quality Of Service. Radio Modem A device that provides modulation and demodulation for a radio frequency communications system. Radiation In this document, refers to electromagnetic energy emitted in the radio frequency (RF) band. Return Loss A measure of antenna matching. RF Radio Frequency.
Chapter 10: Glossary 70 RIM GPRS Radio Modem
Index permanent, 33 A antenna gain, 58 return loss, 69 shielding, 63 VSWR, 59, 69 N C OEM, 68 cables serial, 34 P I interface connecting to, 34 test board, 24 UART, 69 M noise shielding, 63 O power supply alkaline batteries, 42 automotive supplies, 42 load specifications, 39 plug-in supply, 42 R RS232, 69 mounting Integrator Guide 71
© 2002 Research In Motion Limited Produced in Canada