mp 700 series gps modem software installation ... 700 series...rev 2.0 oct.04 9 1: introducing the 1...

MP 700 Series GPS modem

Software Installation,Configuration, and Integration Guide

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Preface

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Important Notice Due to the nature of wireless communications, transmission and reception of data can never be guaranteed. Data may be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors) or be totally lost. Although significant delays or losses of data are rare when wireless devices such as the Sierra Wireless modem are used in a normal manner with a well-constructed network, the Sierra Wireless modem 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. Sierra Wireless, accepts no responsibility for damages of any kind resulting from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using the Sierra Wireless modem, or for failure of the Sierra Wireless modem to transmit or receive such data.

If you have purchased this product under a United States Government contract, it shall be subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of Defense Federal Acquisitions Regulations (DFARs) Section 252.227-7013 for Department of Defense contracts, and as set forth in Federal Acquisitions Regulations (FARs) Section 52.227-19 for civilian agency contracts or any successor regulations. If further government regulations apply, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with such regulations.

Safety and Hazards Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in areas where blasting is in progress, where explosive atmospheres may be present, near medical equipment, near life support equipment, or near any equipment which may be susceptible to any form of radio interference. In such areas, the Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE POWERED OFF. The Sierra Wireless modem can transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment.

Do not operate the Sierra Wireless modem in any aircraft, whether the aircraft is on the ground or in flight. In aircraft, the Sierra Wireless modem MUST BE POWERED OFF. When operating, the Sierra Wireless modem can transmit signals that could interfere with various onboard systems.

Note: Some airlines may permit the use of cellular phones while the aircraft is on the ground and the door is open. Sierra Wireless modems may be used at this time.

The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate a computer or any other device connected to the Sierra Wireless modem while in control of a vehicle. Doing so will detract

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from the driver or operator's control and operation of that vehicle. In some states and provinces, operating such commu-nications devices while in control of a vehicle is an offence.

Limitation of Liability

The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Sierra Wireless. SIERRA WIRELESS AND ITS AFFILIATES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, GENERAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUE OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS OR REVENUE ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE ANY SIERRA WIRELESS PRODUCT, EVEN IF SIERRA WIRELESS AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR THEY ARE FORESEEABLE OR FOR CLAIMS BY ANY THIRD PARTY.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall Sierra Wireless, and/or its affiliates aggregate liability arising under or in connection with the Sierra Wireless product, regardless of the number of events, occurrences, or claims giving rise to liability, be in excess of the price paid by the purchaser for the Sierra Wireless product.

Patents Portions of this product are covered by some or all of the following US patents:5,515,013 5,617,106 5,629,960 5,682,602 5,748,4495,845,216 5,847,553 5,878,234 5,890,057 5,929,8156,169,884 6,191,741 6,199,168 6,327,154 6,339,4056,359,591 6,400,336 6,643,501 6,516,204 6,561,8516,653,979 6,697,030 6,712,627, 6.785,830 D367,062D372,248 D372,701 D416,857 D442,170 D452,495D452,496 D453,733 D459,303 D496,642 D496,655and other patents pending.

Manufactured or sold by Sierra Wireless or its licensees under one or more patents licensed from InterDigital Group.

Copyright © 2004 Sierra Wireless. All rights reserved.

Trademarks �Heart of the Wireless Machine®� is a registered trademark of Sierra Wireless.Sierra Wireless�, the Sierra Wireless logo, the red wave design, and Watcher� are trademarks of Sierra Wireless.

Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

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Trimble® is a registered trademark of Trimble Navigation Limited.

Lassen� is a trademark of Trimble Navigation Limited.

InstallShield® is a registered trademark and service mark of InstallShield Software Corporation.

Other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.

Contact Information

Your comments and suggestions on improving this documen-tation are welcome and appreciated. Please e-mail your feedback to [email protected]. Thank you.

Consult our website for up-to-date product descriptions, documentation, application notes, firmware upgrades, trouble-shooting tips, and press releases:

www.sierrawireless.com

Sales Desk: Phone: 1-604-232-1488

Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm Pacific Time

e-mail: [email protected]

Post: Sierra Wireless, Inc.13811 Wireless Way,Richmond, BCCanada V6V 3A4

Fax: 1-604-231-1109

Web: www.sierrawireless.com

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Table of Contents
Introducing the MP 700 Series GPS modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Voice support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Provided software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

About GSM, GPRS, and EDGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10GSM accounts and coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Supported GSM radio frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Connection types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Serial or USB PC connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

System requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Installing Watcher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Installing the modem driver (Windows NT only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Account Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19The SIM card and account information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Inserting the SIM card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Setting up connection profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Configuring a profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Default profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Operating the MP 700 Series GPS modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Modem hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Turning the modem on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Reading the status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Resetting the modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

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Watcher software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Watcher help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Launching Watcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Watcher window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Using the Modem as a Mobile Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Connecting voice devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Making voice calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Configuring the Operating Mode and Fallback Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Operating modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Serial PC connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30USB PC connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Autoconnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Fallback feature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Configuring the Modem to Report GPS and I/O Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

GPS configuration and reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33GPS protocols and commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34GPS configuration using AT commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34GPS configuration in Watcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37GPS display in Watcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37GPS TAIP quick reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

I/O device installation and configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Connector pinouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Port specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Digital input devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Digital output devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Analog input devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41I/O configuration using AT commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41I/O configuration in Watcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Analog input setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Digital I/O setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

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Sending Data to your Network Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Configuring the modem to route data to a server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Report frequency timers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47MTP configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50The problem created by Network Address Translation (NAT) . . . . . . . . 51

Solutions to the NAT problem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Retrieving the Unique Mobile Device ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Using the Monitoring and Tracking Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

The RNAP protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Packet layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56Multiplexing layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

The MTP protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57MTP message types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Summary/registration message frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64TAIP commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Alarm acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Support and Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

Technical support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

RF and electrical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Environmental specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Weight and dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

GPS performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

I/O port characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

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Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

European Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Declaration of Conformity for CE Marking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Canada (Industry Canada approval) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

U.S.A. (FCC approval). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

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11: Introducing the MP 700 Series GPS modem• Provided software• About GSM, GPRS,

and EDGE• Serial or USB PC

connection• Documentation

Note: Do not connect the MP 700 Series GPS to a USB port on a PC before installing the software. See Chapter 2.

The Sierra Wireless MP 700 Series GPS modem provides a wireless network connection for portable computers installed in vehicles. The modem has a rugged design that withstands the vibration, shock, humidity, and extremes of temperature experienced in the normal operation of police, emergency, utility, and field service vehicles.

The network connection provided by the MP 700 Series GPS can be used to access shared data, browse the Internet, and send and receive e-mail and text messages. The modem also allows for sensors, gauges, and alarms (such as panic buttons) to be deployed in vehicles and remotely monitored from a central location or dispatch. A built-in GPS module provides location and heading data that can also be remotely monitored.

Voice support

Depending on your service provider, the MP 700 Series GPS may be voice-enabled. If so, you can attach a headset to your modem and use it as a mobile phone.

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Provided softwareThe MP 700 Series GPS modem comes with this software:• Watcher, the enabling software for the modem that

manages and monitors your connections.• The driver that forms the interface between the modem

and your Windows operating system.• The firmware that is stored in non-volatile memory.

The MP 700 Series GPS has an embedded AirCard wireless network card (also made by Sierra Wireless). There are two firmware programs on the MP 700 Series GPS�one stored on the controller board of the modem, and one on the AirCard.

The firmware was loaded into the AirCard and controller board when the modem was assembled. As new versions of the software and firmware are released, they are posted to the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com.

About GSM, GPRS, and EDGEThe MP 700 Series GPS operates on GSM network technology. GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) is a type of wireless communications network designed for mobile phones that is widely deployed throughout the world. GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) and EDGE (Enhanced Data GSM Environment) are add-on data services to GSM networks. GPRS provides a maximum data transmission speed of 56 kbps while EDGE provides a maximum data transmission speed of 216 kbps. The MP 750 GPS supports GPRS while the MP 775 GPS supports GPRS and EDGE service.

GPRS service has been implemented on most GSM networks but there are a few areas (mainly rural areas in Europe) with GSM coverage but no GPRS service. EDGE is less widely implemented. The MP 700 Series GPS modem is primarily designed to provide GPRS/EDGE data connections but it also allows for CSD (Circuit-Switched Data) connections in areas that have GSM coverage but no GPRS or EDGE service (assuming CSD is supported by your service provider).

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Figure 1-1: The MP 700 Series GPS modem and the GSM and GPS networks.

GSM accounts and coverage

You must set up an account with a GSM service provider (that offers GPRS/EDGE service) for each MP 700 Series GPS modem you install. After installing the MP 700 Series GPS modem software, you must configure it to use an account. (See �Account Configuration� on page 19.)

The service provider supplies a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card�sometimes called a �smart card� or �smart chip��for each account. The SIM card provides the MP 700 Series GPS modem�s identity on the GSM network. It contains account information and must be inserted in the MP 700 Series GPS modem for the modem to operate. (See �Inserting the SIM card� on page 19.)

MP 775 GPS

Base Station (GSM)

MP 700 Series GPS installed in a vehicle with laptop computer.

GPS Satellite

GSM/GPSAntenna

Network Operations Center

Private/Dedicated LinkCustomer Fixed End System

GSM

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The ability of the MP 700 Series GPS modem to obtain GSM and GPRS/EDGE service in any area is determined by several factors:

Network proximity and GPRS/EDGE availability To obtain GSM service, you must be within the coverage area of a GSM network operating in one of the radio frequency bands supported by the MP 700 Series GPS modem. (See �Supported GSM radio frequencies� on page 12.)

GPRS has been implemented on most GSM networks, except in a few rural areas in Europe. (EDGE is less ubiquitous.) In areas which have do not have GPRS/EDGE service, you may be able to make circuit-switched data (CSD) connections and voice calls (if supported by your service provider), but you will not be able to make high-speed, packet-data connections.

Roaming If you are within the coverage area of a GSM network operated by a service provider other than your own, your ability to obtain service depends on whether a roaming agreement exists between your service provider and the one operating your current local network. There may be additional fees for roaming service. Contact your reseller or service provider for information.

Account provisions Your account may restrict usage of certain networks, may prevent voice communications, or may limit your connection time or data transmission.

Supported GSM radio frequencies

Every GSM network operates on one of these sets of radio frequency bands:• 850 MHz band�used by some North American service

providers• 900 MHz band�used by some European service

providers• 1800 MHz band�used by some European and Asian

service providers• 1900 MHz band�(also called the PCS band) used by

many North American service providers

The MP 750 GPS is a tri-band product operating on the 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz bands. The MP 775 GPS is a quad-band product operating on the 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz bands.

Connection types

The MP 700 Series GPS modem supports three types of connections.

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Packet data connections When using GPRS/EDGE, the MP 700 Series GPS modem makes a high-speed, packet-based wireless connection using standard Internet data protocols. Packet data connections require GPRS/EDGE service. GPRS provides a maximum data transmission speed of 56 kbps while EDGE provides a maximum data transmission speed of 216 kbps.

Circuit-switched data (CSD) connections Circuit-switched connections can be established in areas that have GSM but not GPRS/EDGE coverage. The Fallback feature must be properly configured to allow for this. (See page 31.) In a circuit-switched connection, the modem connects to a specific phone number. The maximum data rate in this type of connection is 14.4 kbps.

Voice connections Depending on your service provider, your MP 700 Series GPS may be voice-enabled. If so, you can attach a headset to your modem and use it as a mobile phone. You require a headset or other audio device with a 4-wire, 2.5 mm connector connected to the Audio connector on the modem.

Serial or USB PC connectionThe MP 700 Series GPS can be connected to either a serial (DB9) or USB port on a PC. When connected to a serial port, the MP 700 Series GPS behaves like a dial-up modem. When connected to a USB port, the MP 700 Series GPS behaves more like a network card. With a USB PC connection, the modem connects instantly to the network on startup, unless the operating mode is set to On Demand. (The operating modes are covered in Chapter 4, beginning on page 23.) With a USB PC connection, and the operating mode set to Always On, it is not necessary to run Watcher to make connections.

Depending on how you are using the MP 700 Series GPS, you may want to have both a USB and serial connection between the modem and the host. This allows you, for example, to make a network connection over the USB connection, while using a �moving map� application over the serial connection. To do this, you must configure the modem to send GPS data to the serial port using the AT command, AT!MPGPSCOMOUT. (See the AT Command Reference, document number 2130309, for more details.)

If you intend to use the modem in this way, you must install the modem using the USB option. (See page 15.) If you install the modem using the serial option and then connect a USB cable, the modem will not function.

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DocumentationThe MP 700 Series GPS modem documentation consists of two guides and an online help system.

The MP 700 Series GPS Software Installation, Configuration, and Integration Guide (this document) describes how to:• Install the software.• Configure the software to use a GSM account and SIM

(Subscriber Identity Module) card.• Understand the LEDs on the modem and the indicators in

the Watcher software.• Set up the modem�s operating mode and configure the

feature that allows for CSD connections.• Configure the modem to report GPS and/or I/O (input/

output) data (from sensors, gauges, or panic buttons).• Use the modem to connect to a VPN (Virtual Private

Network).• Collect and use GPS and I/O data from a fleet of vehicles

in which MP 700 Series GPS modems are installed.

The MP 700 Series GPS modem Vehicle Installation Guide provides instructions on installing the hardware, describing how to:• Mount the modem in a vehicle.• Connect to the vehicle�s battery.• Connect to the vehicle�s ignition switch or a separate on/

off switch.• Ground the device.• Connect the radio and GPS antennas.• Connect a headset, a notebook computer, and other I/O

(input/output) devices.

The Software Installation, Configuration, and Integration Guide and the Vehicle Installation Guide are provided as PDF (Portable Document Format) files on the installation CD.

Online help is provided with Watcher. The help describes all the icons and indicators in Watcher, provides detailed instruc-tions on using Watcher to make voice and data connections, and explains how to send and receive SMS messages. When using Watcher, you can access help through the menu system or by pressing the <F1> key.

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22: Software Installation• System requirements• Installing Watcher Before you can use the MP 700 Series GPS, you must install

Watcher and the modem driver. This section guides you through the installation.

System requirements

Note: Do not connect the MP 700 Series GPS to a USB port on a PC before installing the software.

The Watcher software supports notebook computers with these operating systems (using either a serial or USB PC connection):• Windows 2000 Professional (with Service Pack 4 or later)• Windows XP Professional

Note: Windows NT 4.0 is supported only on the MP 750 GPS; it is not supported on the MP 775 GPS.

These operating systems are also supported but require a serial connection between the modem and PC:• Microsoft® Windows® 98 SE• Windows NT 4.0 (with Service Pack 6a)

Installing Watcher

Note: On Windows NT, 2000, and XP, you must be logged in with administrative privileges to install the software. (Windows NT is only supported on the AirCard 750.)

Follow these steps to install Watcher and the modem driver:1. Close any Windows programs that are open on your

computer.2. Insert the MP 700 Series GPS modem CD in your CD-ROM

drive.The CD should automatically launch and display a menu. If not, select Start > Run from the Windows taskbar and type d:\launch.exe (where d is the drive letter of your CD-ROM drive).

3. From the CD start-up menu, select installation and documentation and then MP Watcher installation to launch the InstallShield® Wizard.

Table 2-1: System resource requirements

Interface Available DB9 serial or USB port

Drive CD-ROM drive (installation only)

Memory 32 MB RAM

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Note: If you want to have both a USB and serial connection to the modem, install the modem using the USB option. See page 13.

4. Use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the wizard.· If you are running Windows 2000 or XP, you are

prompted to configure Watcher for either the �MP Series Modem (Serial)� or �MP Series Network Adapter (USB)� driver. (If you are running Windows 98 or NT, you only have the serial option.) If you are connecting the modem to a DB9 serial connector on the PC, select the first option. If you are connecting the modem to the USB connector on the PC, select the second option.

Note: Once the modem is installed, if you chose to switch connections (from serial to USB, or from USB to serial), you must rerun the installer.

· If you have multiple COM ports, the wizard prompts you to select one. Use the check boxes to select the port to which you are connecting the modem. (If you are connecting the modem to a USB connector on the PC, your selection here has no effect.)

5. If the Digital Signature Not Found (Windows 2000) or Software Installation (Windows XP) window appears, you can safely ignore the warning. Click Yes or Continue Anyway when it appears.

6. If you are installing the USB driver, you are prompted to connect the modem. Connect the modem and click OK.

Note: The final window of the wizard may be slow to appear as the driver installation occurs.

7. Click Finish in the final window. To close the CD start-up menu, select the taskbar button to redisplay the window, then select exit in the lower right corner of the window.

8. If you are running Windows XP, the Found New Hardware Wizard appears. Click Next. If the Hardware Installation window appears again, click Continue Anyway. Click Finish on the final window of the wizard.

9. If you are running Windows NT, a window appears informing you that you must install the �Sierra Wireless MP Series Modem� prior to using Watcher. Click OK. (The modem driver installation is covered in the next section.)

10. If you are installing the serial driver, connect the modem to your PC. Windows then completes driver installation. If you are running Windows 98, 2000, or XP, you can proceed to the next chapter (page 19) for instructions on config-uring your account. If you are running Windows NT, proceed to the next section.

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Note: Windows NT is only supported on the MP 750 GPS.

Installing the modem driver (Windows NT only)

Note: The Windows NT CD and the Service Pack 6a CD are required to complete the installation.

Before installing the software ensure that Windows Networking and RAS (Remote Access Services) are installed. (See the Windows NT online help for procedures.)

1. If you have not yet done so, connect the MP 700 Series GPS to your PC.

2. From the Windows taskbar, choose Start > Settings > Control Panel.

3. Double-click the Modems icon. If the Install New Modem wizard launches, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, click Add to launch the wizard.

4. Select Don�t detect my modem, I will select it from a list and click Next.

5. From the Manufacturers list in the left column, choose Sierra Wireless Inc. (not Sierra Wireless).

6. From the Models list in the right column, choose Sierra Wireless MP Series Modem and click Next.

7. Click the Selected Ports radio button and select the COM port to which the modem is attached (usually COM 1), then click Next.

8. Click Finish.9. If the Modems Properties window is not already open,

double-click the Modems icon to open it.10. Select Sierra Wireless MP Series Modem and click the

Properties button.11. In the Maximum speed drop-down list, select 115200 if it is

not already selected. Click OK.12. Click Close to close the Modems Properties window.13. Reinstall Service Pack 6a.

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33: Account Configuration• Inserting the SIM card• Setting up connection

profiles• Default profile

Once the Watcher software is installed (as described in the previous chapter), you must configure the MP 700 Series GPS modem with an account before it is ready for use.

The SIM card and account information

You require an account with a GSM service provider for each MP 700 Series GPS being deployed. For each account, you should also obtain a SIM card. The SIM contains account infor-mation used by the network to identify subscribers and provide access to the appropriate messages and services. The SIM must be inserted in the modem�s SIM slot (as described in the next section.)

Your service provider may give you only one APN in which case you require only one profile. Some service providers assign separate APNs for separate purposes. For example, some service providers supply one APN to use for Internet browsing and a different APN to use with a VPN. In this case you must set up multiple profiles. The MP 700 Series GPS allows for up to three profiles.

Most service providers have one or two standard profiles that all or most of their subscribers are expected to use. Most of these standard profiles have been pre-defined in Watcher, allowing you to select a standard profile, rather than creating it manually. To manually set up an account, you require the necessary information from your service provider: username, password, and APN (Access Point Name).

Inserting the SIM cardThe MP 700 Series GPS modem has a SIM card slot next to the lights on the indicator panel. The slot is protected by a removable rubber cover, and houses a SIM card sled. To insert a SIM card into the modem:1. Open the rubber cover.2. Use a pen or stylus to press the yellow eject button inside

the slot.

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Figure 3-1: Opening the SIM card cover and ejecting the carrier.

3. Pull the sled out of the slot.4. Place the SIM card into the sled until it clicks into place.

The SIM card should fit in only one way, with the contact surfaces facing up as shown.

Figure 3-2: Placing a SIM card into the sled.

5. Insert the sled back into the SIM slot.

Figure 3-3: Inserting the SIM card carrier and closing the cover.

6. Push the sled in until it clicks into place in the slot.

Close the rubber cover again, by fitting in the left edge, then pressing in to seal the cover, as shown.

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Setting up connection profiles

Note: Your profiles are stored on your MP 700 Series GPS modem—not on the SIM card. This means that if you use your SIM card in another device, you must create a profile on that device.

Unless your MP 700 Series GPS modem was preconfigured by your reseller or service provider, you must set up at least one connection profile before you can use it to access the Internet. Some service providers offer a single profile. Some offer separate profiles for separate purposes (for example: one for web browsing and one to use while accessing a corporate network over a VPN). You may also require different profiles for different types of data connections, or if you have multiple SIMs. The MP 700 Series GPS modem allows you to create up to three profiles.

Configuring a profile

Note: If the version of firmware on your modem is not current with your version of MP750 Watcher, you will be prompted to update your firmware when you launch the program. This update is important to ensure proper operation of your modem. The update may take as long as fifteen minutes.

To create a profile:1. Ensure that the SIM card is inserted into the card slot (see

�Inserting the SIM card� on page 19).2. If Watcher is not running, start Watcher by

choosing Start > Programs > Sierra Wireless > MP 700 Series > MP 700 Series GPS Watcher, or double click the desktop shortcut.

3. Select TOOLS > Connections. The Connections window appears, showing you the currently configured profiles.If a profile is listed, your modem is likely preconfigured and is ready for use�you may choose Cancel and proceed to �Configuring the Modem to Report GPS and I/O Data� on page 33 or �Operating the MP 700 Series GPS modem� on page 23. (If you wish to examine the existing profile, highlight the profile and click the Edit button.)

4. In the Connections window, click Add to create a new profile. The User Profile window appears.

5. Either select a pre-defined profile from the Profile Name field, or enter your profile information as follows:· Profile Name: Enter a description of the profile or

account. This name appears in the main Watcher window and, if you later create more profiles, you can use it to select this profile.

· User Name and Password: Enter your user name and/or password if assigned by your service provider.

· APN (Access Point Name): Enter the APN that the service provider gave you, if any.

When you have finished configuring the profile, click OK.

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Default profile

Note: The Fallback connection is only invoked when a connection is established using the default profile. See page 31.

The default connection profile is the one used to establish a wireless data connection if you do not select a specific profile before you click Watcher�s Connect button. If you only have one profile, it is the default. If you create more than one profile, you can set the default in the Connections window:1. In Watcher, choose TOOLS > Connections. The Connections

window appears.2. On the Profiles tab, select the appropriate box in the

Default Connection column, then click OK.

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44: Operating the MP 700 Series GPS modem• Modem hardware• Watcher software Operating the MP 700 Series GPS modem requires some

knowledge of both the modem hardware and the Watcher software. This chapter describes the basics of each.

Modem hardwareThe MP 700 Series GPS modem is usually mounted in the trunk or passenger compartment of a vehicle.

Turning the modem on and off

The way in which the MP 700 Series GPS is wired determines how it is powered on and off. In most cases the power supply for the modem is the vehicle's electrical system and the modem is powered on and off in one of these ways (see the MP 700 Series GPS modem Vehicle Installation Guide�document number 2130286�for details):• Accessory on. The modem is powered when the ignition is

switched to "Accessories". (This allows the modem to be powered when the engine is off.)

�or�• Engine on. The modem is powered only when the ignition

is on. (The modem is only on when the engine is on.)

�or�• Separately switched. The modem is connected to a

separate on/off switch so that it can be turned on and off independently of the engine and vehicle accessories.

Rather than cutting power to the modem, the ignition key or power switch allows the modem to perform a controlled shutdown sequence that avoids data loss. (You can also set the modem to wait up to 240 minutes after the power switch has been turned off before it shuts down. See the description of the Power Off Timer in the Watcher online help for details.)

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Reading the status indicators

The MP 700 Series GPS modem�s indicator panel includes four indicator lights and the SIM card slot:

Figure 4-1: The indicator panel of the MP 700 Series GPS modem.

The table below shows the behavior of the LEDs during normal modem operation:

SIM card slotTransmit (Tx) indicator

GPS indicator

Power indicator Receive (Rx)indicator

Table 4-1: LED operation

LED Behavior Indicates

Power Off Modem is not powered.

Rapid flashing Modem is powered and has not acquired GSM or GPRS/EDGE service.

Slow flashing (about 1.5 seconds between flashes)

Modem has acquired GSM service but not GPRS/EDGE service.

On solid Modem has acquired GPRS/EDGE service.

Tx Flashing Modem is transmitting data.

Rx Flashing Modem is receiving data.

GPS Off GPS module is not active.

Flashing GPS module is active but not receiving valid fixes.

On solid GPS module is active and providing valid fixes.

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Resetting the modem

The reset button for the MP 700 Series GPS modem is on the top of the housing.

To reset the modem, press hard on the button until all four indicator lights illuminate. (Use a thin, blunt tool such as a stylus or capped pen; avoid sharp implements that might puncture the rubber.)

This terminates any data connection and causes the modem to perform a self-test. (Stored settings are not lost.)

Figure 4-2: The modem reset button.

Watcher softwareWatcher is the program used to manage and monitor the MP 700 Series GPS modem. For information about installing Watcher and setting up a connection profile, see �Software Installation� on page 15 and �Account Configuration� on page 19.

Watcher allows you to:

Note: Dependent on the operating mode, it may not be necessary to run Watcher to use the modem, but it is useful to do so because Watcher provides useful status information as well as providing the ability to configure certain options.

• Create and edit connection profiles.• Determine signal strength, roaming status, GPRS/EDGE

availability, and other network connection parameters.• Monitor the status of the MP 700 Series GPS modem and

of GSM service.• Initiate data connections.• Make and receive phone calls (if voice is enabled).• Send and receive SMS messages.• Enable or disable SIM security that prevents others from

using your SIM card if it is lost or stolen.• Set Watcher notification options.• Configure the I/O ports.• View GPS position information.

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Watch

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Watcher help

Watcher has a well-indexed and detailed online help system.

To get help in Watcher, select HELP > Help Topics. You can also display help by pressing the <F1> key on your computer.

Launching Watcher

To launch Watcher:1. Ensure that the SIM card is inserted into the card slot (see

�Inserting the SIM card� on page 19).2. If Watcher is not running, start Watcher by

choosing Start > Programs > Sierra Wireless> MP 700 Series > MP 700 Series GPS Watcher, or double click the desktop shortcut.

Watcher window

The main Watcher window includes a number of elements that let you control and monitor your MP 700 Series GPS modem and your connection to the GSM network.

Figure 4-3: The Watcher window, showing the DATA tab controls.

Connect/Disconnect

VIEW menu MinimizeCompact view

Close Watcher

Connection profiledrop-down list

TOOLS menuHELP menu

Title bar

button

Edit connectionprofile button

DATA tab

VOICE tab (when

Status area

enabled)

er indicators

Signal strength

RS

GE

ming

S message

dset

ming call

sed call

l forwarding

ice mail

er off timer

S

nsmit / Receive

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55: Using the Modem as a Mobile Phone• Connecting voice

devices• Making voice calls Depending on your service provider, your MP 700 Series GPS

may be voice-enabled. If so, you can attach a headset to your modem and use it as a mobile phone.

Connecting voice devicesTo use the modem for voice communications, connect a 4-wire headset with a 2.5 mm connector to the modem�s Audio connector. (If the modem is installed in the trunk of the vehicle, it will be necessary to install an extension cable between the headset and the modem. Contact your service provider for information about supported cables.)

Figure 5-1: The MP 700 Series GPS modem’s Audio connector.

Making voice callsWhen the voice features are enabled in Watcher, the main window has a VOICE tab that functions like the keypad on a mobile phone (see page 26). For more details, see the Watcher online help.

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66: Configuring the Operating Mode and Fallback Feature• Operating modes• Fallback feature Operating modes

The modem has two operating modes: Always On and On Demand. To understand the operating modes for the modem, it is necessary to understand the MP connection from end to end:

Figure 6-1: Modem connections.

There are two modem connections: the host-to-modem connection and the modem-to-network connection. • Host-to-modem�This is the connection between the PC

on which Watcher is installed and the MP 700 Series GPS. Your PC connection (serial or USB) and your Autoconnect setting determine how this is established.

• Modem-to-network�This is the connection between the MP 700 Series GPS and the network.

The operating mode determines how the modem-to-network connection is established. In Always On mode, the modem-to-network connection is established whenever the modem is powered and GPRS/EDGE service is available. In On Demand mode, the modem-to-network connection is established only when the host-to-modem connection is also established.

If you are developing a network application to control or monitor MP 700 Series GPS modems installed in a fleet of vehicles, it is usually best to use Always On mode. (With On Demand mode, it can be difficult to track the modems� IP addresses.)

st-to-modem connection Modem-to-network connection

Fallback GSM Connection

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Serial PC connections

With a serial connection, the host-to-modem connection is estab-lished by selecting the Connect button in Watcher, or if Autoconnect is enabled, the connection is automatically estab-lished when Watcher is launched. The modem-to-network connection is established based on the operating mode as described above.

USB PC connections

If the modem is connected to a USB port on the PC, the host-to-modem connection is established automatically when the modem and the PC are powered. It isn�t necessary to launch Watcher to establish the connection. There is little difference between Always On and On Demand mode with a USB connection, because the host-to-modem connection is estab-lished immediately on startup.

To access the Operating Mode field, from the main Watcher window, select TOOLS > Connections and select the Network tab.

Autoconnect

Note: The Autoconnect check box is only available if the modem is connected to the serial port on the PC. (With a USB connection, Autoconnect is effectively always enabled.)

The Autoconnect feature controls whether the host-to-modem connection is automatically established. When the feature is enabled, the connection is established automatically when:• Watcher is launched• GPRS/EDGE service is re-acquired after it has been lost

When Autoconnect is enabled, a connection is maintained, as long as Watcher is running and there is GPRS/EDGE service, until you select the Disconnect button.

To access the Autoconnect field, from the main Watcher window, select TOOLS > Options and select the Data tab.

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Fallback feature

Note: Only the default profile uses the fallback number—if you select another profile from Watcher’s pull-down menu (see page 22) before attempting to connect, the connection will fail if no GPRS/EDGE service is available.

The Fallback feature allows you to configure the modem to attempt a dial-up connection (over the GSM network) when GPRS/EDGE service is lost.

In North America and in highly-popluated areas of Europe, GPRS/EDGE service is available throughout the GSM coverage area and there is little need for the Fallback feature. In less densely-populated, rural areas of Europe, there are areas where there is GSM coverage but no GPRS/EDGE coverage. In these areas, the Fallback feature can be useful.

When the Fallback feature is configured and enabled, the modem attempts a dial-up connection in these circumstances (if GPRS/EDGE service is not available):

Note: If a user establishes a modem-to-GPRS connection by selecting Connect, and the user travels outside of GPRS/EDGE coverage, the connection is terminated. This does not invoke the Fallback feature. The user would need to select the Connect button to establish the dial-up connection.

• The user selects the Connect button in Watcher• The modem requires a connection to make an automatic

report.

Fallback connections are billed as CSD (circuit-switched data) connections. (Contact your service provider for details.) If the Fallback feature is invoked by an automatic report, the connection will be terminated when the inactivity timer expires.

Regardless of whether the Fallback feature is invoked, the modem�s IP address is lost anytime the modem-to-network connection is lost. Many Internet applications stop running when the IP address is lost.

Watcher does not display a message when the Fallback feature is invoked, but the GPRS indicator will turn off.

The online help in Watcher provides complete instructions on configuring and using this feature.

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77: Configuring the Modem to Report GPS and I/O Data• GPS configuration and

reporting• I/O device installation

and configuration

The MP 700 Series GPS modem is capable of reporting position and heading information (using the embedded GPS module) as well as reporting the status of sensors, gauges, and alarms connected to the modem�s I/O port. The MP 700 Series GPS is typically installed in a fleet of vehicles with the GPS and/or I/O data being sent to a central office or dispatch location for processing.

This chapter describes how to implement local reporting of GPS and I/O data. Chapter 8 describes how to configure your modem to exchange data with your private network. Chapter 9 describes the protocols used to report the GPS and I/O data so that you can develop or configure a centralized system to convert the raw data into meaningful information.

GPS configuration and reportingGPS receivers use an array of orbiting satellites operated by the United States Department of Defense to triangulate their coordinates on the earth�s surface. In order to use the GPS module in the MP 700 Series GPS, a GPS antenna must be connected to the modem. (The installation requires either two antennas�one GSM and one GPS�or a single combination GSM/GPS antenna.)

For more information about GPS, see the Primer on GPS Opera-tions (document number 2130313) on the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com. The Vehicle Installation Guide on the installation CD (document number 2130286) provides information about installing the components required to support GPS.

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GPS protocols and commands

Note: The “MP Rugged Wireless Modem TAIP Reference” (document number 2130312) provides a description of the TAIP commands that can be used with the MP 700 Series GPS modem. This is available on the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com. Infor-mation about the Lassen SQ GPS modules, including more documentation on TAIP commands, is available at www.trimble.com. When configured for NMEA, the GPS module is limited to NMEA GGA and NMEA VTG messages only. More information on NMEA message standards is available at www.nmea.org.

The GPS module supports two methods of reporting naviga-tional information, using either the TAIP (Trimble ASCII Interface Protocol) or NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) protocols. When the MP 700 Series GPS is shipped from the factory, the GPS module is configured for TAIP. If you are using a GPS application that requires data to be reported according to the NMEA protocol, the modem must be reconfigured using an AT command. (See the next section.)

NMEA is a reporting protocol only, while TAIP provides the ability to send commands to the module to query for infor-mation and configure reports. When the modem is set for TAIP, TAIP commands can be sent to the modem in these ways:• Using AT commands. (See the next section.) • Using the RNAP and MT protocol (described in Chapter

7).• Using Watcher. (See page 37.)

TAIP commands can be used to:• Query the modem for its current position, heading, and

speed.• Enable and disable automatic reporting of GPS data, and

(if enabled) set the interval at which automatic reports are sent.

• Configure the format of the reports.

The MP 700 Series GPS can be configured to store TAIP or NMEA packets while the modem is out of GSM coverage, and to forward the packets when coverage is restored. (See Table 7-1 on page 35.)

GPS configuration using AT commands

The table on the next page lists the AT commands that allow you to retrieve GPS data from the modem and configure the GPS module. The MP 700 Series GPS AT Command Reference (document number 2130309) describes how to establish a session that allows you to send AT commands to the modem and provides more details on the commands listed here (as

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well as all the other AT commands that work on the MP 700 Series GPS). The reference is available on the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com.

Table 7-1: GPS AT commands (Parameters are in the <> brackets)

AT command Description

AT!MPGPSDATA? Returns a string containing the:• Status of the GPS LED• Operational status of the GPS

module• Latitude• Longitude• Altitude• Speed• Heading• Number of satellite fixes• Age of the data• UTC time

AT!MPGPSCMD=<“TAIP command”>

Sends a TAIP command to the module. Note that TAIP commands use “>” as the start delimiter and “<“ as the end delimiter. For example, to issue the TAIP command QST (which queries the operational status of the GPS module), you would enter:AT!MPGPSCMD=">QST<"

AT!MPGPSINIT=<init no>, <“TAIP command”>

Specifies TAIP commands to be included in initialization strings that are executed by the modem on start-up . The <init no> parameter specifies the order in which the commands are to be executed (1=first, 5=last).

AT!MPGPSINTSET=<update interval>

Sets the interval at which the GPS module does position and altitude readings. (This does not control the interval at which these are reported). The <update interval> is in seconds (minimum 0, maximum 255).

AT!MPMTCONF=<engid>, <ctype>, <destip>, <destport>, <lowtmr>, <fasttmr>, <gpstmr>

Sets the interval at which GPS data is reported by each of the four reporting engines. This command is covered in detail under “MTP configuration” on page 50.

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ATI4 Displays the Unique Mobile Device ID. This number is required to identify each modem on the network. This is discussed on page 53.

AT!MPGPSRESET=[<protocol>]

Resets the GPS module and allows you to switch between the TAIP and NMEA protocols:• AT!MPGPSRESET=0—Sets the

protocol to TAIP.• AT!MPGPSRESET=1—Sets the

protocol to NMEA.

AT!MPGPSSTOR=<#GPSrecords>

Enables and disables the storing and forwarding of GPS records (TAIP or NMEA) and, when enabled, sets the total number of records stored. • AT!MPGPSSTOR=0—Disables the

feature.• AT!MPGPSSTOR=1-1000—Sets the

total number of records the modem can accumulate while out of GSM coverage. (The maximum is 1000.) When this number is reached, the modem discards the oldest record as each new record is captured so that the stored records are the most recent.

Table 7-1: GPS AT commands (Parameters are in the <> brackets)


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GPS configuration in Watcher

In Watcher, you can configure the modem to report velocity and altitude data in either metric or imperial units. To set the units, select TOOLS > Configuration > GPS from the main Watcher window.

When the modem is set for TAIP, the Command field and Send button on the GPS window allow you to issue TAIP commands to the GPS module.

GPS display in Watcher

To view latitude, longitude, velocity, heading, altitude, and local and UTC time1, select TOOLS > Display GPS from the main Watcher window.

From a cold start (where the modem is powered on with no stored navigational data), it may take a few minutes for the GPS module to obtain satellite fixes and begin reporting. The data is then updated every second.

GPS TAIP quick reference

The following table is a quick summary of the TAIP message identifiers. For detailed information and message syntax, see the MP Rugged Wireless Modem TAIP Reference (document number 2130312) and the Lassen SQ GPS documentation on TAIP commands available at www.trimble.com.

1. UTC is Universal Coordinated Time, the time in Green-wich, England.

TAIP Message Identifiers

AL Altitude/Vertical Velocity

CP Compact Position Solution

DC Differential Corrections

DD Delta Differential Corrections

ID Identification Number

IP Initial Position

LN Long Navigation Message

PV Position/Velocity Solution

RM Reporting Mode

RT Reset

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I/O device installation and configurationThe I/O port on the MP 700 Series GPS modem allows for the remote monitoring of gauges, sensors, and alarms. This feature can be used to display readings on instruments or gauges and to remotely monitor panic buttons or alarms (such as gun rack alarms that are trigged whenever a gun rack is opened).

This section describes how to connect and configure I/O devices, such as sensors, gauges, and alarms to work with the MP 700 Series GPS modem.

Connecting these devices requires that you make a customized I/O cable. The cable must have, at one end, whatever connector is required by the I/O device, and at the other end, the DB15 connector. The cable wires must pin to the appropriate pin numbers on the I/O connector. The pinouts are described in the next section.

The maximum length of the I/O cable is 15 feet.

Connector pinouts

The MP 700 Series GPS modem�s I/O port is a female DB15 connector with eight active I/O pins:• Two (2) digital I/O ports.• Two (2) digital input ports.• Four (4) analog input ports.

There are six reserved pins, and one ground pin.

ST Status

TM Time/Date

VR Version Number

TAIP Message Identifiers

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Figure 7-1: Pinouts for a male DB15 I/O cable (left) that connects to the MP 700 Series GPS modem’s female DB15 I/O connector (right). Note that the two figures’ pinouts are mirror images of one another, since they plug together.

Port specifications

Note: No more than 36 VDC should be applied to any I/O pins.

See �I/O port characteristics� on page 72 for the technical specifications of the I/O ports, including input voltages.

Digital input devices

Digital input devices are those that have only two states and send a signal to the modem in one of those states. An example of a digital input device might be a gun rack alarm that sends a signal to the modem any time the gun rack is open. Another example would be a panic button that sends a signal to the modem when it is pushed.

There are four pins of the DB15 connector to which a digital input can be connected: Pins 3, 4, 11, and 12. (Pins 3 and 11 could alternatively be used for digital output.)

1. Reserved�do not connect2. Reserved�do not connect3. Digital I/O 1 (Din1/Dout1)4. Digital input 3 (Din3)5. Reserved�do not connect6. Reserved for future support

7. Analog input 2 (Ain2)8. Analog input 4 (Ain4)9. Reserved�do not connect

DB15 MALE

10. Ground (GND)11. Digital I/O 2 (Din2/Dout2)

12. Digital input 4 (Din4)13. Reserved�do not connect14. Analog input 1 (Ain1)15. Analog input 3 (Ain3)

of differential GPS�do not connect

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Typically a digital input device should be connected between Ground (Pin 10) and the input port (Pin 3, 4, 11, or 12).

Figure 7-2: A button wired to Pin 4 (digital input) and Pin 10 (Ground).

The pins will report a logic high on an input of 3.3 VDC. An internal pull-up resistor provides a high condition when the switch is open.

The digital input pins report a logic low on an input between 0 VDC and 0.8 VDC. Sinking the input pin to ground yields a logic low (0x00) when the port is polled.

If you configure the modem to send data to a network server, digital input data can be remotely monitored. (Chapters 6 and 7 explain how to configure the modem and use the data.)

Digital output devices

Note: Digital outputs cannot be controlled remotely. The MP 700 Series GPS does not receive or transmit digital output data over the network.

Digital output devices are those that have only two states and the state is controlled by a signal from the modem. Any device that is to be switched on and off from Watcher would be installed as a digital output device.

There are two pins of the DB15 connector to which a digital output can be connected: Pins 3 and 11. (These can be used for either input or output.)

Typically a digital output device should be connected between Ground (pin 10) and the output port (Pin 3 or 11).

Figure 7-3: Wiring for using Pin 3 (digital output) as an electronic switch. Pin 10 is Ground.

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The digital I/O ports provide open-collector output to a maximum of 500 mA.

Analog input devices

Note: Analog input data CANNOT be sent to a remote host. The MP 700 Series GPS does not receive or transmit analog input data over the network.

Analog input devices are those that generate a signal of varying voltage, based on the state of an instrument or gauge. An example of an analog input device might be a sensor that detects the vehicle�s speed or fuel volume.

There are four pins of the DB15 connector to which an analog input can be connected: Pins 7, 8, 14, and 15.

Typically an analog input device should be connected between Ground (pin 10) and the input port (Pin 7, 8, 14, or 15).

Figure 7-4: A sensor wired to Pin 7 (analog input) and Pin 10 (Ground).

The analog input ports use a 10-bit (1024-step) analog-to-digital converter over a range from 0 to 3.3 VDC, yielding a digital step resolution of 0.0032 V.

I/O configuration using AT commands

Once a sensor, gauge, button, or switch is physically connected to the MP 700 Series GPS, the modem must be configured to manage the input from, or output to, the device. This configu-ration can be done using either AT commands or using Watcher.

The table below lists the AT commands that allow you to retrieve I/O data from the modem and configure the I/O ports. The MP 700 Series GPS AT Command Reference describes how to establish a session that allows you to send AT commands to the modem and provides more details on the commands listed

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here (as well as all the other AT commands that work on the MP 700 Series GPS). The reference is available on the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com.

Table 7-2: I/O AT commands (Parameters are in the <> brackets)


AT!MPAIN?<chan>,<scale>

Reports the current state of a specified analog input port. The <chan> parameter corresponds to a pin number as follows:• <chan>=1—device on Pin 14• <chan>=2—device on Pin 7• <chan>=3—device on Pin 15• <chan>=4—device on Pin 8The <scale> parameter specifies whether a raw or scaled value is reported (0=raw, 1=scaled value). See “Analog input setup” on page 44 for an explanation of raw and scaled values.

AT!MPAINCFG=<chan>,“<input label>”, “<unit label>”,<zero scale>,<full scale>

Assigns a label, unit label, zero scale, and full scale to a specified analog input. See “Analog input setup” on page 44 for a description of the parameters. The <chan> corresponds to the pin numbers as above.

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AT!MPDIO=<chan>,<value>

Sets the value at a specified digital output channel. The <value> parameter sets the port to logic level low or logic level high (0=low, 1=high). See “Digital I/O setup” on page 45 for an explanation of the logic levels. (The value can only be set for channels 1 and 3 and only if they are configured for output.)

AT!MPDIO?<chan> reports the current value at a specified digital I/O port. The <chan> parameter corresponds to a pin number as follows:• <chan>=1—device on Pin 3• <chan>=2—device on Pin 4• <chan>=3—device on Pin 11• <chan>=4—device on Pin 12

AT!MPDIOCFG<chan>,<type>,“<IO label>”, <alarm>, “<logic low label>”,“<logic high label>”,[<level>]

Assigns a type (input or output), label, alarm level, logic low level, and logic high level to a specified digital input or output. See “Digital I/O setup” on page 45 for a description of the parameters. The <chan> corresponds to the pin numbers as above. (Only channels 1 and 3 can be configured for output.)

AT!MPDIOCFG?<chan> reports the configuration of a specified port.

Table 7-2: I/O AT commands (Parameters are in the <> brackets)


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I/O configuration in Watcher

There are separate windows in Watcher for configuring the analog and digital ports.

Analog input setup

The Analog Input window (TOOLS > Configuration > Analog...) is used to configure devices on the four analog inputs. Each tab corresponds to a pin:

To configure an analog sensor or gauge, select the tab that corresponds to the pin you are using, and complete the fields as follows:• Label: Enter a description of the sensor or gauge (Measured

Voltage, Vehicle Speed, etc.), up to 20 characters in length.• Raw value: Shows the analog value from the input (read-

only). The analog input has a 10-bit (1024-step) resolution, so the raw value range is between 0 and 1023.

• Zero scale: Enter the minimum value for the units you are reporting (used to convert the raw analog value of zero).

• Full scale: Enter the maximum value for the units you are reporting (used to convert the raw value of 1023).

• Current value: Shows the resulting converted value using the zero and full scales entered.

• Unit: Specify the units of the input (volts, km/h, etc.), up to 20 characters in length.

Example

If you are measuring the amount of fuel in the tank, and the gauge you have connected to the I/O connector measures between 0 (raw value 0) and 20 (raw value 1023) gallons, then your zero scale is 0.0 and your full scale is 20.0. Your label could be �Fuel�, and units, �gallons�.

The measurements are calculated for the 20-gallon range (between 0 and +20), which is divided into 1024 steps (0.01953 gallons per unit step). A reading of 10 gallons would therefore show a raw value of 512 (10 gallons/0.0195 gallons per unit).

Analog Tab Connector Pin

Input 1 14

Input 2 7

Input 3 15

Input 4 8

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Digital I/O setup

The Digital Input/Output window (TOOLS > Configuration > Digital...) is used to configure devices on the two digital I/O and two digital input ports. Each tab corresponds to a pin:

To configure a digital sensor or gauge, select the tab that corre-sponds to the pin you are using, and complete the fields as follows:• Label: Provide a description of the sensor or gauge, up to

20 characters in length.• Type: Select Input, Output, or Not used. (Output is not

available on tabs 3 and 4.)

Note: Logged events are written to disk as [date] [time] [Type][Label][Current state], using the short date and time formats defined by the operating system.

• Logic low name: Describe the state of the device at logic level low, up to 20 characters in length. (For example, if a switch in the off position leads to a logic low, you could choose to label it Switched Off.)

• Logic high name: Describe the state of the device at logic level high, up to 20 characters in length (such as Switched On).

• Alarm logic level: Assign an action associated with the I/O port:· high: a notification is sent, and the event is logged, if the

state changes from a logic low to a logic high.· low: a notification is sent, and the event is logged, if the

state changes from a logic high to a logic low.· log only: no notification is sent, but any change in logic

level is logged.The name and location of the log file is specified on the Advanced tab of the Options window (TOOLS > Options). By default, the log file is located in the program folder or user folder and is called MPlog.txt.

• Current value: Shows the current value of the port.

Digital Tab Connector Pin

I/O 1 Input or output on pin 3

I/O 2 Input or output on pin 11

Input 3 Input on pin 4

Input 4 Input on pin 12

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88: Sending Data to your Network Application• Configuring the

modem to route data to a server

• Retrieving the Unique Mobile Device ID

This chapter discusses how to configure the MP 700 Series GPS modem to send GPS and I/O data to a network server. This is a simple process that uses a single AT command. If, however, there are any firewalls on your or your service provider�s network, provision must be made to route the data through or around the firewall. A general discussion of some methods of dealing with firewalls is provided.

This chapter also explains how to retrieve the Unique Mobile Device ID from the modem. This is the number that uniquely identifies each modem. Any application that uses the GPS and I/O data from the modem requires this number.

Configuring the modem to route data to a serverThe protocol that defines how the MP 700 Series GPS data is packaged is called MTP (Monitoring and Tracking Protocol). This protocol is explained in detail in the next chapter. MTP is configured using the AT command AT!MPMTCONF. In issuing this command, you specify the IP address and port number to which the MTP data is to be sent, and values for the timers that determine the frequency with which the data is to be sent. These timers are discussed in the next section.

The MP 700 Series GPS modem provides four independent reporting engines, allowing data to be sent to four different destinations. This allows, for example, GPS data to be sent to one host application, and I/O data to be sent to another. You must configure each engine that you intend to use separately using AT!MPMTCONF.

Report frequency timers

The low rate timer, fast rate timer, and GPS timer control the interval between reports from the modem. The low rate timer sets the interval at which reports are sent in the absence of any other trigger or timer. The low rate timer is in minutes with a

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default of three minutes. (The other timers are in seconds.) In most configurations, the low rate timer does not come into effect.

Note: Alarm triggers must be configured locally on the MP 700 Series GPS, using either Watcher or the AT command AT!MPDIOCFG.

The fast rate timer only becomes active when an alarm condition is triggered by a rise or drop in the level of one of the digital I/O channels. The default for the fast rate timer is three seconds.

Note: When the fast rate timer is set to 0, a single report is sent when an I/O alarm is triggered. It is not necessary to acknowledge the alarm (as described on page 65).

If the GPS timer is set to a value other than 0, it controls the frequency of reports in the absence of any alarm or event triggers. (This is unless it is set to an interval that is longer than the low rate timer, but since the low rate timer is in minutes and the GPS timer is in seconds, the GPS timer typically has the shorter interval.).

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Note: The “MP Rugged Wireless Modem TAIP Reference” (document number 2130312) provides a description of the TAIP commands that can be used with the MP 700 Series GPS modem. This document is available on the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com. Infor-mation about the Lassen SQ GPS modules, including more documentation on TAIP commands, is available at www.trimble.com.

If the GPS timer is set to 0, reporting becomes �GPS driven�. This means that the interval between reports is determined by the configuration of the GPS module. If the GPS module is configured for TAIP, the interval can be changed by issuing TAIP commands. An advantage of configuring the report frequency with TAIP commands is that you can specify a time interval or a distance interval between reports. That is, you can configure the module so that the frequency of the reports is based on distance travelled and/or elapsed time.

TAIP commands can be issued to the module locally using the AT command AT!MPGPSCMD. They can also be sent remotely using MTP (Monitoring and Tracking Protocol�discussed in the next chapter). If you configure the reports by simply sending a TAIP command, that configuration does not persist across power cycles. If you want to configure the TAIP reports such that the configuration persists across power cycles, it is best to include the TAIP commands in the initialization strings for the modem, since commands in the initialization strings are executed each time the modem is powered. The initialization strings can be configured with the AT command AT!MPGPSINIT or by using MTP. (See page 61.).

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Note: The GPS module is limited to NMEA GGA and NMEA VTG messages only. More information on NMEA message standards is available at www.nmea.org.

If the module is configured for NMEA, data is sent at five-second intervals. (The interval cannot be changed when the module is configured for NMEA because NMEA is strictly a reporting protocol.)

MTP configuration

Note: The MP 700 Series GPS AT Command Reference (document number 2130309) describes how to establish a session that allows you to send AT commands. It also lists all other AT commands that the modem supports. The reference is available on the Sierra Wireless web site, www.sierrawireless.com.

To set the MP 700 Series GPS to send MTP data to a network server, you must issue the AT command AT!MPMTCONF to the modem. The command has these parameters:• <engid>�the reporting engine:

0�engine 11�engine 22�engine 33�engine 4

• <ctype>�the connection type:0�the engine is unused1�MTP embedded in UDP packets2�unused3�raw GPS data embedded in UDP packets

• <destip>�the IP address of the network server.• <destport>�the port number on the network server to

which the MTP data is to be sent.

Note: The low rate, fast rate, and GPS timers are discussed in the section, “Report frequency timers” on page 47.

• <lowtmr>�interval (in minutes) between reports sent by the low rate timer. (The default is five minutes.)

• <fasttmr>�interval (in seconds) between reports sent by the high rate timer. (The default is three seconds.)

• <gpstmr>�interval (in seconds) between reports sent by the GPS timer. The default is ten seconds. (If this is sent to 0, the report frequency is �GPS driven�, as discussed in the previous section.)

The MP 700 Series GPS sends MTP data to the IP address specified by the <destip> parameter.

To send data to the MP 700 Series GPS, a host application on a network server requires the IP address of the modem. Typically service providers do not provide a static IP address to each device on the network. Rather the IP address is dynam-ically assigned each time the modem registers on the GSM network. This means that the host application must identify each modem by its Unique Mobile Device ID (discussed on page 53) and capture its IP address as it registers.

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Figure 8-1: An MP 700 Series GPS connected to a network server. In this scenario, AT!MPMTCONF would have been used to configure the modem to send data to the IP address 67.43.212.8. Since there are no firewalls, the network server simply sends data to the IP address 192.218.36.5.

If the MP 700 Series GPS has a public IP address, the host application can simply check the IP address on the incoming data packets to determine the IP address of the modem. However, if NAT (Network Address Translation) is in use, the IP address assigned to the modem is likely to be a private IP address. This may present problems, as discussed in the next section.

The problem created by Network Address Translation (NAT)

Note: A similar problem may occur if NAT is in use on your network. In this case, the host application may reside on a server that has a private IP address. The MP 700 Series GPS must be configured to send data to a server on your network with a public IP address, and the server must be configured to recognize the MTP data and route it appro-priately. (The UDP port number might be used to route the data. This is configured on the modem using the <destport> parameter of the AT command, AT!MPMTCONF.)

Many service providers use NAT (Network Address Trans-lation) which effectively creates a firewall in front of the GSM network. Inside the GSM network, the service providers assign private IP addresses to registered devices, since public IP addresses are not needed to route data within the GSM network. (This saves the service provider the expense of having a large pool of public IP addresses.) A public IP address is substituted for the private IP address when data packets pass through the gateway between the GSM network and the Internet. This public IP address might be used on data transmissions from many different devices. The problem this creates is that the network server is only aware of the substi-tuted public IP address. If the server replies to this address, the GSM network cannot identify the device for which the data was intended.

Assume for example, an MP 700 Series GPS is registered on a GSM network. On the GSM network the modem is assigned a private IP address of 10.95.236.1. When the modem sends MTP data to the network server, a public IP address of 24.7.6.30 is substituted at the gateway to the Internet. When the network server receives the data, the host application is only aware of

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the public IP address, 24.7.6.30. However, if the network server sends data back to the IP address 24.7.6.30, when the data arrives at the GSM network, the network has no way of identi-fying the modem for which it is intended and is unable to route the data appropriately.

Figure 8-2: An MP 700 Series GPS connected to a network server. In this scenario, the IP address is “NATed” from 10.95.236.1 to 127.7.6.30. The network server is only aware of the address 127.7.6.30 but if it sends data to that address, the network cannot route the data to the modem.

Solutions to the NAT problem

If your service provider is using NAT, it is best to work with the provider in devising a solution. Some service providers offer, on request, accounts with public IP addresses. (There may be additional charges for this.)

Another solution is to implement a frame relay connection between your network and your service provider�s network. The frame relay connection bypasses the address translation, and is a method of overcoming NAT issues, encouraged by some service providers.

NetMotion Wireless, Inc., Broadbeam Corporation, and Padcom, Inc. are software vendors that develop client-server applications that operate over wireless LANs (Local Area Networks) and WANs (Wide Area Networks). The purpose of these applications is to overcome the issues caused by NAT addressing by assigning a consistent private IP address. These

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applications offer a potential solution to NAT issues, but they are untested by Sierra Wireless, and Sierra Wireless does not provide support for it.

Retrieving the Unique Mobile Device IDIn order to associate GPS and I/O data with a particular vehicle, you must create a database on your server that links each modem�s Unique Mobile Device ID to the vehicle in which it is installed. The Unique Mobile Device ID is a number derived from the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity).

Use the AT command ATI4 to obtain the Unique Mobile Device ID from each modem you deploy.

It may also be useful to assign a device name to the modem that identifies the vehicle in which it is installed. This name can be assigned locally using Watcher or remotely using MTP. (See page 59). The device name is included in the MTP data sent to the network server.

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99: Using the Monitoring and Tracking Protocol

• The RNAP protocol• The MTP protocol This chapter describes the protocols used in data transmissions

between an MP 700 Series GPS modem and a network server, providing the information necessary to develop host applica-tions that process GPS and digital input data from a fleet of MP 700 Series GPS modems. This discussion assumes that a connection has been established between the modems and the network server and that data is being received at the server. (This was covered in the last chapter.)

All data sent from the MP 700 Series GPS is in the form of UDP packets. The GPS and digital input data is encapsulated within the UDP packets and framed according to two Sierra Wireless proprietary protocols, RNAP (Remote Network Access Protocol) and MTP (Monitoring and Tracking Protocol).

Figure 9-1: Protocols used in data transmissions between the MP 700 Series GPS and the network server

The host application must open a UDP socket through which it receives the RNAP packets. It must then disassemble the RNAP packets and the MTP packets to access the GPS and digital input data. That data must then be parsed so that the host application can process it to provide whatever infor-mation the host application is intended to provide.

The next two sections describe the RNAP and MTP protocols, providing the information necessary to disassemble the packets and parse the data.

The RNAP protocolThe RNAP protocol is designed to encapsulate several different application protocols, of which only MTP is in use.

To allow for multiple application protocols, RNAP has been designed with two layers: the packet layer, and the multi-plexing layer.

Layer

RNAPPacket Multiplexing

Layer

RNAPPacketUDP MTP

Packet

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Packet layer

At the packet layer, an RNAP packet consists of a two-byte header followed by the message payload (a multiplexing layer packet). The header only contains the length of the message payload..

Figure 9-2: RNAP Packet layer packet (the maximum length is 1412 bytes)

Multiplexing layer

At the multiplexing layer, an RNAP packet consists of a 10 byte header followed by the message payload (an MTP packet). The header has five components.

Figure 9-3: RNAP Multiplexing layer packet. (Note that Bit 0 will, in future, allow encryption to be enabled and disabled but encryption is not yet supported.)

The header components are:• Header version (four bits)�revision number of the

header. The initial version is 0.• Option bits (four bits)�settings for options. Each bit is

designed to enable/disable an option. Bit 1, Bit 2, and Bit 3 are unassigned and reserved for future use. Bit 0 will, in future, be used to enable (1) and disable (0) encryption. (Encryption is not yet supported.)

Header(Packet length)

2 bytes

Message payload(Multiplexing layer packet)

variable length up to 1410 bytes

Header10 bytes

Message payload(MTP packet)

variable length up to 1400 bytes

Headerversion(4 bits)

Optionbits

(4 bits)

ApplicationID

(8 bits)

Unique MobileDevice ID(32 bits)

Reserved forFuture Use

(32 bits, set to 0)

3Reservedset to 0

2 1 0Enable

encryptionReservedset to 0

Reservedset to 0

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• Application ID (8 bits)�code identifying the application protocol. The only currently supported ID is �01� for the MTP protocol.

• Unique Mobile Device ID (32 bits)�binary code identi-fying each individual MP 700 Series GPS modem. This is not a user-defined ID. This number is derived from the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity).For packets originating from the MP 700 Series GPS, this identifies the source. For packets originating from the server, this identifies the destination. When the packet arrives at the MP 700 Series GPS, this ID is validated. If the ID fails validation, the packet is silently discarded.The host application must be able to recognize each vehicle by this ID. See �Retrieving the Unique Mobile Device ID� on page 53.

The MTP protocolAn MTP packet consists of a one-byte tag identifying the message type, two bytes that identify the length of the message, and the message payload.The message payload contains the fields that correspond to the message type. Each field is preceded by a one-byte field tag, and two bytes that identify the length of the field.

MTP message types

The table on the next page lists the six message types used in the MTP protocol. The Message ID is the �tag� of the MTP packet. Message types with ID numbers in the 0 to 127 range are messages types sent from the MP 700 Series GPS to the host application. Those with Message ID numbers in the 128 to

Tag

1 byteLength2 bytes

Message payload(variable length)

(Message ID)

Length2 bytes

Field(variableField ID

1 byte length)Length2 bytes

Field(variableField ID

1 byte length) ...

MTP message

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255 range are message types sent from the host application to the MP 700 Series GPS. This section provides the information required to parse those message types.

Table 9-1: MTP message types

Message type Message ID

Description

MT_SUM_REG_IND 0x00 Unsolicited summary/registration information

This is the message in which GPS and digital input data from the modem is sent. It is sent at regular intervals based on the low rate, fast rate, and gps timers discussed on page 47. It is also sent on the occurrence of certain events, as shown in the table on page 64.

MT_CONF_RSP 0x01 Response to configuration

This message is sent from the modem in response to MT_CONF_REQ. It indicates whether the configuration attempt was successful.

MT_SUM_RSP 0x02 Response to summary

This message has the same format as MT_SUM_REG_IND but is only sent in response to MT_SUM_REQ.

MT_CONF_REQ 0x80 Configuration request

This message is used to configure the report rate, device name, and server IP address, for a particular engine. This message can also be used to send TAIP commands to the GPS module and to edit the initialization strings of the modem.

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The next tables specify the fields within each message type. The Field ID is the code that must precede the length and contents of the field when the MTP packets are assembled.

MT_SUM_REQ 0x81 Request summary

This message triggers the modem to send MT_SUM_REG_IND for a particular engine.

MT_ALM_RST_IND 0x82 Latched alarm reset

This resets a digital input alarm and de-activates the fast rate timer. See “Alarm acknowledgement” on page 65.

Table 9-1: MTP message types

Message type Message ID

Description

Table 9-2: MT_SUM_REG_IND (Unsolicited Summary / Registration Info) and MT_SUM_RSP (Response to Summary Request)

Field Field ID

Description Contents

MT_SR_ENGINE_ID 0x00 Engine ID. One byte:• 0—Engine 1• 1—Engine 2• 2—Engine 3• 3—Engine 4

MT_SR_MP_NAME 0x01 Device name (set using Watcher or the MT_CONF_REQ message)

Variable length buffer (maximum 24 bytes) in Unicode format.

MT_SR_GPS_TAIP 0x02 If the GPS module is configured for TAIP, this field contains one or more concatenated TAIP messages.

Variable length buffer.

MT_SR_GPS_NMEA 0x03 If the GPS module is configured for NMEA, this field contains one or more concatenated NMEA messages. (These may be of the type GGA, VTG, or both.)

Variable length buffer.

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MT_SR_RSSI_MEAS 0x04 Current RSSI measurement in dBm (decibels relative to one milliwatt).

Two byte signed int16.

MT_SR_IO_STATUS 0x05 Digital input, alarm, battery, and ignition status.

Four bytes:• Byte 1—external digital input

status.Bits 0 to 3 correspond to binary inputs 0 to 3. For each bit, 1 is “High” and 0 is “Low”.Bits 4 to 7 are reserved.

• Byte 2—alarm status.Bits 0 to 3 correspond to binary inputs 0 to 3. For each bit, 1 indicates that the alarm is on and 0 indicates that the alarm is off.Bits 4 to 7 correspond to binary inputs 0 to 3. These bits toggle when the alarm state switches between “Idle” and “Latched and Active”. See “Alarm acknowl-edgement” on page 65.

• Byte 3—battery status.0x00—battery not low0x01—battery low

• Byte 4—ignition sense status. 0—ignition is on>0—ignition is off

Table 9-3: MT_CONF_RSP (Response to Configuration Request)

Field Field ID


MT_CRSP_ENGINE_ID 0x00 Engine ID. One byte:• 0—Engine 1• 1—Engine 2• 2—Engine 3• 3—Engine 4

Table 9-2: MT_SUM_REG_IND (Unsolicited Summary / Registration Info) and MT_SUM_RSP (Response to Summary Request)

Field Field ID


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MT_CRSP_RESP_CODE 0x01 Response code. One byte:• 0—OK• 1—Error

MT_CRSP_RESP_STRG 0x02 Response string. Variable length ASCII string providing a plain text description of the error condition, if applicable. NULL termination is not required as the tag length indicates the length of the string.

Table 9-3: MT_CONF_RSP (Response to Configuration Request)

Field Field ID


Table 9-4: MT_CONF_REQ (Configuration Request)

Field Field ID


MT_CREQ_ENGINE_ID 0x00 Engine ID. One byte:• 0—Engine 1• 1—Engine 2• 2—Engine 3• 3—Engine 4

MT_CREQ_MP_NAME 0x01 Device name (set using Watcher or the MT_CONF_REQ message). (Optional).

Variable length buffer (maximum 24 bytes) in unicode format.

MT_CREQ_CONN_TYPE 0x02 Connection type. (Optional). One byte:• 0—engine is disabled.• 1—UDP.• 2—TCP (not currently

supported).Any other value represents a configuration error.

MT_CREQ_SERVER_IPV4 0x03 Server IP address. (Optional).

Four bytes, with each byte in the range 0 to 255.

MT_CREQ_SERVER_PORT 0x04 Server port number. (Optional).

Two byte port number.

MT_CREQ_LOW_RATE 0x05 Low reporting rate. See “Report frequency timers” on page 47. (Optional).

One byte:• 0—disabled• 1 to 255—low rate in

minutes. The default is 3.

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MT_CREQ_FAST_RATE 0x06 Fast reporting rate. See “Report frequency timers” on page 47. (Optional).

One byte:• 0—disabled.• 2 to 30—fast rate in

seconds. (The default is 3.)

Any other value (including 1) represents a configuration error.

MT_CREQ_GPS_RATE 0x07 GPS polling rate. (Optional). One byte:• 1 to 255—Sets the GPS

polling rate in seconds. This sets the minimum interval between MT_SUM_REG_IND messages. (The default is 10.)

• 0—The MT_SUM_REG_IND message is sent based on the GPS module configuration.

If the rate is set to 0, reporting is “GPS driven”, otherwise the reporting is “polled”. See “Report frequency timers” on page 47.

MT_CREQ_GPS_CONF 0x08 GPS configuration. (Optional).

Variable length buffer. The content of this field is any valid TAIP message, relayed directly to the GPS module of the MP 700 Series GPS. Note that the contents of this field are ignored by the GPS module if the module is configured for NMEA.

MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT1 0x09 GPS initialization string 1. (Optional).

Variable length buffer. The content of this tag is any valid TAIP message, issued to the GPS module during MP startup. See “Report frequency timers” on page 47.

MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT2 0x0A GPS initialization string 2. (Optional).

Same as MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT1.

MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT3 0x0B GPS initialization string 3. (Optional).



Field Field ID


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MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT4 0x0C GPS initialization string 4. (Optional).


MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT5 0x0D GPS initialization string 5. (Optional).



Field Field ID


Table 9-5: MT_SUM_REQ (Request Summary)

Field Field ID


MT_SREQ_ENGINE_ID 0x00 Engine ID. One byte:• 0—Engine 1• 1—Engine 2• 2—Engine 3• 3—Engine 4

Table 9-6: MT_ALM_RST_IND (Latched Alarm Reset)

Field Field ID


MT_ARI_ENGINE_ID 0x00 Engine ID. One byte:• 0—Engine 1• 1—Engine 2• 2—Engine 3• 3—Engine 4

MT_ARI_DIO_ALM_ACK 0x01 Digital input alarm acknowledgement.

One byte:• Bits 0 to 3—correspond to

binary inputs 0 to 3. For each bit, “1” indicates an alarm reset, and “0” indicates no action.

• Bits 4 to 7—correspond to binary inputs 0 to 3. These bits are copied from Byte 2, Bits 4 to 7 of the MT_SR_IO_STATUS field of the MT_SUM_REG_IND message. (See page 59.)

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Summary/registration message frequency

When the MP 700 Series GPS has a GPRS/EDGE connection to the network, it sends the summary/registration message (MT_SUM_REG_IND) to the host application at regular intervals, as well as on the occurrence of specific events. This message contains an engine ID, the device name, GPS data in the form of either a TAIP or NMEA message, the RSSI value, and the status of the digital input ports.

The interval at which the MT_SUM_REG_IND message is regularly sent is governed by three timers: the low rate timer, the fast rate timer, and the GPS timer. These are discussed in the section �Report frequency timers� on page 47.

As well as occurring at intervals based on the timer settings, the MT_SUM_REG_IND message is triggered by the events listed in the following table:

TAIP commands

The MT_CONF-REQ message type allows you to issue TAIP commands to the GPS module (if the module is configured for TAIP rather than NMEA). You can send any TAIP command at any time using the MT_CREQ_GPS_CONF field, however if you use this to configure the GPS module, the configuration does not persist across power cycles. If you want to configure the TAIP reports such that the configuration persists across power cycles, it is best to include the TAIP commands in the initial-ization strings for the modem, since commands in the initial-ization strings are executed each time the modem is powered.

Table 9-7: Events which trigger MT_SUM_REG_IND

Event Description

Change in IP address

Anytime the MP 700 Series GPS changes IP addresses, MT_SUM_REG_IND is sent for registration.

Digital input alarm When an alarm is triggered by a drop or rise in the level of a digital input port, MT_SUM_REG_IND is sent at a faster rate (as determined by the fast rate timer described above). The message is sent at the faster rate until it is acknowledged. See “Alarm acknowledgement” below.

Change in battery status

MT_SUM_REG_IND is sent whenever the battery voltage rises or drops to pre-determined levels.

Change in ignition sense

MT_SUM_REG_IND is sent when at any change in ignition status occurs.

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The MT_CONF_REQ message includes five fields (those beginning with MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT) for that purpose. TAIP commands in those strings are executed in sequence from MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT1 to MT_CREQ_GPS_INIT5.

Alarm acknowledgement

Note: When the fast rate timer is set to 0, a single report is sent when an I/O alarm is triggered. It is not necessary to acknowledge the alarm.

As stated above, when a digital input alarm occurs, the MP 700 Series GPS starts sending the MT_SUM_REG_IND message at the interval designated by the fast rate timer. The faster rate is used until the host application acknowledges the alarm by sending the MT_ALM_RST_IND message. Even if the alarm goes off, the modem persists in sending MT_SUM_REG_IND with the alarm set on, until the acknowl-edgement is received. (That is, the alarm is �latched and active� until it is reset by the host application with the MT_ALM_RST_IND message. )

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The alarm becomes �idle� on receipt of the MT_ALM_RST_IND acknowledgement. The MP 700 Series GPS then resumes sending MT_SUM_REG_IND at its regular rate.

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110: Support and Warranty• Technical support• Warranty Technical support
To obtain technical support for your MP 700 Series GPS modem, and firmware and software upgrades, please contact your account manager at your reseller or service provider.

Online technical support resources are also available at www.sierrawireless.com.

WarrantySierra Wireless warrants the MP 700 Series GPS modem against all defects in materials and workmanship for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase.

The sole responsibility of Sierra Wireless under this warranty is limited to either repair or, at the option of Sierra Wireless, replacement of the modem. There are no expressed or implied warranties, including those of fitness for a particular purpose or merchantability, which extend beyond the face hereof.

Sierra Wireless is not liable for any incidental or consequential damages arising from the use, misuse, or installation of the MP 700 Series GPS modem.

This warranty does not apply if the serial number label has been removed, or if the wireless modem has been subjected to physical abuse, improper installation, or unauthorized modifi-cation.

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111: Technical Specifications• RF and electrical
specifications• Environmental

specifications• Weight and

dimensions• GPS performance• I/O port characteristics

This chapter provides technical data for the MP 700 Series GPS modem. (For information on the behavior of the LED indicators on the modem, see �Reading the status indicators� on page 24.)

RF and electrical specificationsTable 0-1: Radio frequency & electrical specifications

Approvals FCC Industry CanadaPTCRBeMark (MP 750 GPS only)CE (MP 750 GPS only)

Compliance Compliant with:MP 750 GPSGPRS GSM Release 97 SMG 31 Phase 2+MP 775 GPS3GPP Release 1999

Voltage Range 9 - 36 VDC

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Current MP 750 GPSMax transmita (EGSM, 2 W, 4 Tx slots):500 mA averageTypical transmit (DCS/PCS, 1 W, 2 Tx slots):220 mA averageReceive: 160 mAIgnition off:2 mA

MP 775 GPSMax transmitb (EGSM/Cell, 2 W, 4 Tx slots):458 mA averageTypical transmit (DCS/PCS, 1 W, 2 Tx slots):265 mA averageReceive: 200 mAIgnition off:3.2 mA

Maximum Output Power

1 W (PCS/DCS 1800)2 W (EGSM)

Multi-slot class Class 12

Transmit MP 750 GPS MP 775 GPSPCS: PCS:1850 to 1910 MHz 1850 to 1910 MHzDCS1800: DCS1800:1710 to 1785 MHz 1710 to 1785 MHzEGSM900: EGSM900:880 to 915 MHz 880 to 915 MHz

GSM850824 to 849 MHz

Receive MP 750 GPS MP 775 GPSPCS: PCS:1930 to 1990 MHz 1930 to 1990 MHzDCS1800: DCS1800:1805 to 1880 MHz 1805 to 1880 MHzEGSM900: EGSM900:925 to 960 MHz 925 to 960 MHz

GSM850:869 to 894 MHz

Channel spacing 200 kHz

Frequency stability

0.1 ppm

a. This applies to a typical installation with a well-matched antenna. All current values are measured with an input voltage of 12 V. Except for the peak current, other reported values are averages.

Table 0-1: Radio frequency & electrical specifications

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Environmental specifications

Weight and dimensions

b. This applies to a typical installation with a well-matched antenna. All current values are measured with an input voltage of 12 V. Except for the peak current, other reported values are averages.

Table 0-2: Environmental specifications

Operating temperature

-40 to +70 °C (-40 to +158 °F)

Storage temperature

-40 to +85 °C (-40 to +185 °F)

Humidity 95% RH non-condensingSAE J1455 4.2MIL 202G 103B and 106GMIL 810F 507.4

Vibration SAE J1455 4.9MIL 202G 214MIL 810F 514.5

Shock SAE J1455 4.10.3.2 and 4.10.3.4MIL 202G 213BMIL 810F 516.5

ESD +/- 4 kV contact

Drop SAE J1455 4.10.3.1 and 4.10.3.2MIL 810F 516.5

Splash SAE J1455 4.4

Table 0-3: Weight and dimensions

Weight 0.9 kg (2 lbs)

Height 49 mm (1.93 in)

Width 138 mm (5.43 in)

Length 176 mm (6.93 in)

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GPS performance

I/O port characteristics

Table 0-4: GPS performance

Accuracy Horizontal:< 6 m (50%), < 9 m (90%)Altitude:< 11 m (50%), < 18 m (90%)Velocity:0.06 m/sec

Acquisition times Re-acquisition< 2 sec (90%)Hot start:< 14 sec (50%), < 18 sec (90%)Warm start:< 38 sec (50%), < 45 sec (90%)Cold start:< 90 sec (50%), < 170 sec (90%)

Operational limits Altitude:< 18,000 m or velocity < 515 m/sec(either limit may be exceeded but not both)

Table 0-5: I/O port characteristics

Absolute max voltage

-0.3 VDC to 36 VDC

Digital inputs Open-collector, max current 500 mA

Vih, min 2 VDCVil, max 0.8 VDCVih, max 36 VDC

Digital outputs Open-collector

Analog input Zero-scale: 0 VDCFull-scale: 3.3 VDCLeakage current: 66 µA

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112: Regulatory Information• European Union• Canada (Industry
Canada approval)• U.S.A. (FCC approval)

European Union

Declaration of Conformity for CE Marking

We,

Sierra Wireless

13811 Wireless WayRichmond, BCCanada V6V 3A4

declare under our sole responsibility that the product MP 750 GPS, to which this declaration relates, is in conformity with the following standard(s) or other normative document(s):• R&TTE 1999/EEC

· EN 301 511; V7.0.1· EN 301 489-7 (9-2000)· EN 60950:2000· EC Recommendation 1999/519/EC

Steve Blaine

Vice President of Engineering

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Canada (Industry Canada approval)

Note: Unauthorized modifica-tions or changes not expressly approved by Sierra Wireless, Inc. could void compliance with regulatory rules, and thereby your authority to use this equipment.

To ensure that the MP 700 Series GPS modem meets Health Canada�s Safety Code 6 requirements, a separation distance of at least 20 cm must be maintained between the modem�s GPRS/EDGE antenna and the body of the user and any nearby persons at all times and in all applications and uses. Additionally, to comply with Industry Canada and Health Canada regulations limiting both maximum RF output power and human exposure to RF radiation, the maximum antenna gain for MP 750 GPS, including cable loss, must not exceed 4 dBi, and the maximum antenna gain for the MP 775 GPS, including cable loss, must not exceed 4.5 dBi.

U.S.A. (FCC approval)To comply with FCC regulations limiting both maximum RF output power and human exposure to RF radiation, the maximum antenna gain for the MP 750 GPS, including cable loss, must not exceed 4 dBi, and the maximum antenna gain for the MP 775 GPS, including cable loss, must not exceed 4.5 dBi. The GPRS/EDGE antenna must be mounted such that there is a separation distance of at least 20 cm between the GPRS/EDGE antenna and the body of the user or any nearby persons.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accor-dance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

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Index
A
account, 11, 19always on (operating mode), 29analog input

configuration, 44wiring, 41

approvals, 69AT commands

GPS, 34I/O configuration, 41MTP configuration, 47unique mobile device ID, 53

audio connector, 27auto connect, 30

C

CDMAoverview, 10

CEdeclaration of conformity for

CE marking, 73class, multi-slot, 70coverage, 11CSD (Circuit Switched Data), 10,10current, 70

D

data connections, 29auto connect, 30

DB9. See serialdeclaration of conformity for CEmarking, 73device name, 53dial-up connections, 12digital input

configuration, 45wiring, 39

digital outputalarm acknowledgement, 65configuration, 45wiring, 40

dimensions, 71documentation, 14drop, 71

E

electrostatic discharge (ESD), 71

F

fast rate timer, 47firewall, 51frequencies

receive, 70transmit, 70

frequency bands, 12, 70

G

gauges. See I/O devicesGPRS

connections, 29overview, 10

GPSconfiguration and reporting,

33� 38performance, 72

GPS timer, 47GSM, 10

H

headset, 27height, 71humidity, 71

I

I/O devices, 38� 45alarm, 48alarm acknowledgement, 65analog, 41digital, 39

I/O port characteristics, 72ignition options, 23inputs. See I/O devicesinstallation

hardware, 14software, 15� 17

L

LEDs, 24low rate timer, 47

M

manuals, 14

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76

MTP, 57� 66configuring, 47report frequency, 47

multi-slot class, 70

N

NAT, 51NMEA, 34

O

on demand (operating mode), 29operating modes, 29output power, 70outputs. See I/O devices

P

PC connection, 13pinouts (on I/O connector), 38power on options, 23private IP address, 51profiles, 21public IP address, 51

R

receive frequencies, 70regulatory information, ??� 74report frequency, 47, 64reporting engines, 47, 50reset button, 24, 25RNAP, 55roaming, 12

S

sensors. See I/O devicesserial

switching between USB andserial, 16

versus USB, 13shock, 71SIM, 19

insertion, 19

softwareinstallation, 15� 17

specifications, 69� 72splash, 71status indicators, 24system requirements, 15

T

TAIPcommands, 37reporting protocol, 34sending commands remote-

ly, 64technical specifications, 69� 72temperature

operating, 71storage, 71

timersreport frequency, 47

transmit frequencies, 70

U

unique mobile device ID, 53USB

supported operating sys-tems, 15

switching between serial andUSB, 16

versus serial connection, 13

V

vibration, 71voice calls, 27voltage, 39voltage range, 69

W

warranty, 67Watcher, 25� 26, ??� 31

installation, 15� 16weight, 71width, 71Windows (supported versions),15

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