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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard
User Guide
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Rev 2
AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Important Notice
Safety and Hazards
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 wellconstructed 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.
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 any equipment that 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. The Sierra Wireless modem may be used at this time.
The driver or operator of any vehicle should not operate the Sierra
Wireless modem while in control of a vehicle. Doing so will detract from the driver or operator's control and operation of that vehicle. In some states and provinces, operating such communications devices while in control of a vehicle is an offence.
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Preface
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
This product may contain technology developed by or for Sierra
Wireless Inc.
This product includes technology licensed from QUALCOMM
®
3G.
This product is manufactured or sold by Sierra Wireless Inc. or its affiliates under one or more patents licensed from InterDigital Group.
Copyright
©2011 Sierra Wireless. All rights reserved.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Trademarks
AirCard and “Heart of the Wireless Machine” are registered trademarks 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.
Mac OS is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
ExpressCard is a trademark of PCMCIA.
QUALCOMM
®
is a registered trademark of QUALCOMM Incorporated.
InstallShield
®
is a registered trademark of Macrovision Corporation in the United States of America and/or other countries.
Other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.
Comments
Additional information and updates
Sales Desk: Phone: 1-604-232-1488
Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time
E-mail: [email protected]
Post: Sierra Wireless
13811 Wireless Way
Richmond, BC
Canada V6V 3A4
Fax: 1-604-231-1109
Web: www.sierrawireless.com
For up-to-date product descriptions, documentation, application
upgrades, troubleshooting tips, and press releases, visit. www.sierrawireless.com
.
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Table of Contents
The AirCard ExpressCard drivers and enabling software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
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1: Introducing the AirCard® 597E
ExpressCard
Note: This document applies to you, only if your wireless card is the
AirCard 597E ExpressCard from Sierra Wireless. This document does not apply, if you are using a wireless card that is built into your computer.
1
•
Welcome
•
Feature summary
•
Package contents
•
System components
Welcome
Note: Do not insert the AirCard
ExpressCard into your ExpressCard slot prior to installing the software. It is important to install the software and drivers in the correct order. For detailed procedures, see
.
The Sierra Wireless AirCard 597E ExpressCard is a dual-band wireless
ExpressCard/34 module for cellular and PCS networks. It enhances the
functionality of your mobile computing device by adding 2-way messaging and high-speed mobile data in extended areas, compared to wireless local area networks.
This ExpressCard allows you to do the following (subject to feature availability), without using a wireline phone or network:
• Connect to the Internet,
• Send and receive large e-mail messages (on Windows only)
•
messages
• Conduct video-conferencing
• Access streaming, real-time media
• Play games online
Note: You can view this guide online or print it to keep on hand. If you're viewing it online, simply click a topic in the Table of Contents, or a page number in the Index, or any page reference or section reference. (Most text that is blue is a clickable link.) The PDF automatically displays the appropriate page.
Note: For step-by-step instructions to access features of the AirCard
ExpressCard, consult the
available with Watcher
™
(
).
Feature summary
The AirCard ExpressCard is designed to provide a wide range of
network technology. Implementation of these features depends on the particular service provider and account features you have chosen.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
8
Some features described in this manual may not be supported by your service provider or may not be available with your network account.
For details of the services and accounts available, contact your service provider.
Wireless ExpressCard
Once installed and configured, the AirCard ExpressCard can connect to the
CDMA network automatically. You just insert the AirCard
ExpressCard, allow Watcher to autolaunch and authenticate your account on the network, then launch your Internet browser (which you can also configure in Watcher to launch automatically)—you’re online!
Alternatively, you can make a high-speed data connection without running Watcher—simply by launching whatever application you want to use (such as your web browser or e-mail application). Prerequisites: you must have previously selected, in Watcher, “ Always-on ” for the high-speed connection and (subject to feature availability)
“ Enable NIC for data connections ”.
The AirCard ExpressCard also allows you to dial up a modem (such as a corporate server).
CDMA 3G services
The AirCard ExpressCard operates over a type of wireless network
(Code Division Multiple Access).
CDMA 3G technology provides a variety of connectivity features, depending on your service provider and account:
•
Rev. A supports Internet connections with data rates up to 3.1
(downlink from the network) and 1.8 Mbps (uplink to the network). Average data rates are 450-800
(downlink from the network) and 300-400 Kbps (uplink to the network).
Actual speed depends on the network conditions.
•
Rev. 0 supports Internet connections with data rates up to 2.4
(downlink from the network) and 153
(uplink to the network). Average data rates are 400-700 Kbps (downlink from the network) and 40-80 Kbps (uplink to the network).
Actual speed depends on the network conditions.
•
supports Internet connections with data rates up to 153
Actual speed depends on the network conditions.
Once the connection is established, you can open your browser and connect to any web site that is accessible through the Internet, or access other Internet services (such as e-mail).
The connection is “active” when data transmission is occurring. If data transmission stops for a period of time (determined by the network), the connection becomes “
.
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Introducing the AirCard® 597E ExpressCard
• Circuit switched (dial-up) data, using the earlier
specification, supports data connections to any dial-in service at rates up to 14.4
.
• QNC (Quick Net Connect), provides a simplified way to dial into an Internet connection (using circuit switched data) where 3G
(1xEV-DO or 1X) high-speed
service is not available.
•
(Short Message Service), allows you to send and receive short text messages using the AirCard ExpressCard.
Additional AirCard ExpressCard features
Beyond the features of the CDMA
network, the AirCard ExpressCard provides additional software features:
• PIN security code to protect your AirCard ExpressCard and account from unauthorized use.
• An Activation Wizard (
page 19 ) to assist with configuring your
CDMA account.
• Sound options to customize ringtones for SMS messages.
• A Call Log to track outgoing calls and determine the amount of data transferred.
Package contents
Your AirCard ExpressCard package contains the following components:
• AirCard 597E ExpressCard
• Installation CD containing the AirCard ExpressCard software, this user guide, and warranty information
• Quick Start Guide
System components
Your AirCard 597E ExpressCard is just one part of a system designed to provide you with a wide range of communication features. Every component of the system is needed to enable these capabilities.
Your host computing device
Your notebook hosts the AirCard ExpressCard hardware and runs the communication software: your web browser or e-mail application, and Watcher—the AirCard ExpressCard enabling software.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Note: You can use the Lock Code feature to prevent others from using your account, should your AirCard
ExpressCard be stolen. For infor-
mation on this feature, see the online help
.
You may also have other software on your computer that can be used wirelessly with the AirCard ExpressCard, such as: file transfer applications (FTP), chat or instant messaging, a
Network) client, client software for a corporate server application.
The AirCard 597E ExpressCard
The AirCard ExpressCard provides your computer with a connection to the CDMA wireless network.
The AirCard ExpressCard fits into a standard ExpressCard/34 or
ExpressCard/54 slot available on newer notebook PCs.
network operates on one of three radio frequency bands.
As a dual-band product, the AirCard ExpressCard operates on two of
these bands (see page 32 ), providing a wide coverage area.
The AirCard ExpressCard drivers and enabling software
The AirCard ExpressCard drivers and enabling software (Watcher) monitor and manage your wireless connections.
The AirCard ExpressCard comes with a CD containing this software:
• Watcher application that you use to manage the AirCard
ExpressCard and monitor your connections. For step-by-step instructions to access features of Watcher, use the application’s
.
• The device driver software that enables the AirCard ExpressCard to work with your computer’s operating system.
The drivers and application software must be installed before you insert the AirCard ExpressCard for the first time. Detailed instructions are provided in the following chapters.
A CDMA service provider account
Companies that operate
CDMA networks and provide access to these
networks are called service providers. To use the AirCard ExpressCard, you must have an account with a CDMA service provider.
Each service provider has its own pricing options. There may be flat rate accounts, which provide you a maximum number of minutes of network usage for a fixed monthly fee. There may be accounts for which you are charged for network usage by the minute or by the amount of data transmitted.
Your account may include a variety of other services such as SMS messaging.
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Introducing the AirCard® 597E ExpressCard
Note: More information about
CDMA networks is available on the
CDMA Development Group web site, www.cdg.org
.
Note: Most service providers have coverage maps on their web sites.
Note: The fee for service is usually higher when you are roaming
(connecting to a network other than the one belonging to your service provider).
Each AirCard ExpressCard has been provisioned at the factory for use with a particular service provider. This sets the AirCard ExpressCard to use particular radio channels and enables services specific for that provider.
The process of setting up your account is called activation. Activation involves action by the service provider and configuration of the
AirCard ExpressCard.
The procedure to configure (activate) your AirCard ExpressCard is covered in
The CDMA wireless network
This is the worldwide infrastructure providing the radio coverage that allows you to stay connected. Made up of radio towers and a variety of network switches, routers, and servers, the network is an interconnection of many service providers.
There are CDMA networks that operate in the frequency bands
supported by the AirCard ExpressCard throughout North America and parts of Latin America, Asia, and New Zealand. However, each service provider operates a network that covers a limited geographical area within the overall CDMA coverage area.
Most service providers have “
” agreements with other service providers, so that they can offer service outside of the coverage area of their own networks. For example, assuming you live in Vancouver
(Canada), and travel frequently to Seattle (United States), you can obtain an account with a Vancouver service provider that has a roaming agreement with a service provider in Seattle. You would then have local service in Vancouver, and roaming service in Seattle.
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2: Getting Started
•
The AirCard 597E software
•
Account activation and configuration
Before you can begin using the AirCard ExpressCard, you must:
1.
Install the AirCard ExpressCard enabling software and drivers.
2.
Activate an account and configure the AirCard ExpressCard to use your account (unless the AirCard ExpressCard has been preactivated).
This section provides an overview of this process.
2
The AirCard 597E software
The AirCard ExpressCard comes with this software:
• Watcher application that you use to manage the AirCard
ExpressCard and monitor your connections
• The driver software that provides the interface between the
AirCard ExpressCard and your Windows operating system
The Watcher software must be installed before you insert the AirCard
ExpressCard for the first time. Detailed instructions are provided in
Account activation and configuration
To use the AirCard ExpressCard, you must have an account with a
CDMA service provider. The process of setting up an account is called
activation.
If you purchased the AirCard ExpressCard directly from a service provider, you may already have an account; your AirCard ExpressCard may be pre-activated.
Otherwise, run Watcher and the Activation Wizard, which guides you through the activation and configuration process. (Depending on your configuration, Watcher and the Activation Wizard may start automatically.)
Configuring the AirCard ExpressCard involves setting the phone number assigned by your service provider and may involve entering other network parameters and settings such as a user name and password to access services.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Your service provider needs to know:
• The billing information to use to collect payment for your network usage.
• The
(Electronic Serial Number) or MEID
(Mobile Equipment
Identifier) assigned to your AirCard ExpressCard during the manufacturing process. (The ESN or MEID is printed on a label on the AirCard ExpressCard and can be displayed in Watcher.) This number is used to help authenticate your account when you connect for service.
You require from your service provider:
• An activation code that gives you access to configure the account.
• A phone number for your AirCard ExpressCard.
• Additional information specific to your service provider such as:
· A user ID (username) and password to authenticate your network connection.
· A SID (System IDentifier) that identifies your home network area and is used together with your phone number to
determine if you are “home” or “ roaming ”.
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3: Installation
•
System requirements
• Installation
•
Inserting the AirCard
ExpressCard
•
Removing the AirCard
ExpressCard
This chapter guides you through the steps necessary to install the
AirCard ExpressCard on a notebook computer.
Note: Do not insert the AirCard ExpressCard into your ExpressCard slot before installing the software.
3
The basic steps are:
1.
Insert the AirCard 597E installation CD into your CD-ROM drive and install Watcher.
2.
Insert the AirCard ExpressCard into the ExpressCard
) to install the AirCard ExpressCard drivers.
3.
If the AirCard ExpressCard has not been pre-activated, use the
Activation Wizard to configure the AirCard ExpressCard (as described in
Before you begin the installation process, ensure your PC is running a supported operating system and meets the hardware requirements described in the next section.
System requirements
The AirCard ExpressCard is supported on notebook PCs running:
• Windows Vista
• Windows XP (Home and Professional versions) with Service
Pack 2
• Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 and roll-up 1
• Mac OS X (supported through the Watcher Lite software— available online from the Support section at www.sierrawireless.com
)
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15
16
Note: Users of Windows Vista and
Windows 2000 must be logged in with administrative privileges to install the AirCard ExpressCard software. Users of Windows XP may require administrative privileges, depending on the Windows XP installation.
To install the AirCard ExpressCard, you require these system resources:
Table 3-1: System resource requirements
ExpressCard slots One ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 slot
Disk drive
I/O resources
Memory
Disk space
CD-ROM (for installation only)
1 IRQ, 40 bytes I/O space
32 MB
32 MB
AirCard ExpressCard software installation procedures
To install Watcher and the AirCard ExpressCard drivers:
1.
If the installation CD is not already in your CD-ROM drive, insert it. The CD should autostart and display a menu.
If the CD does not autostart, select Start > Run and enter d:\launch.exe
where d is the drive letter of your CD-ROM drive.
2.
From the CD startup window, select Install Watcher software to launch the InstallShield
®
Wizard.
3.
If the Open With...
window appears, cancel the installation (your computer is missing some files required for the installation).
Search for Instmsiw.exe
(if you’re running Windows 2000) among the downloads at www.microsoft.com
. Install the file on your computer, then rerun the AirCard ExpressCard software installation.
4.
If the Ikernel Application Error window appears: a) Cancel the installation.
b) Download the file: http://support.installshield.com/kb/files/Q108312/ ikernelupdate.exe.
c) Install the file on your computer, then rerun the software installation.
5.
Use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the wizard noting the following:
· To proceed with the installation, you must click I accept the terms in the license agreement to indicate your acceptance of the terms of the license agreement.
· Use the default settings for the Destination Folder unless you have special requirements and an advanced understanding of
PC configuration. (The Destination Folder dictates where the software is installed.)
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Note: Do not forcefully insert the
AirCard ExpressCard. This may damage the connector pins.
6.
When you are notified that the installation is complete, click
Finish .
7.
Insert the AirCard ExpressCard into your ExpressCard slot (described in the following section). This installs the drivers for the ExpressCard.
When the drivers have been installed, the system tray
displays the message “Your devices are ready to use“ or “Your new hardware is installed and ready to use”:
8.
If Watcher has not started automatically, start it: double-click the
Watcher icon on your desktop.
Proceed to configure the AirCard ExpressCard to use your account (if
it was not pre-activated). See “Activation” on page 19.
ExpressCard insertion and removal
Inserting the AirCard ExpressCard
To insert the AirCard ExpressCard into a notebook:
1.
With the picture label facing up, insert the AirCard ExpressCard into the slot.
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Correct Incorrect
When you insert the AirCard ExpressCard, the following should occur:
• If sound effects are enabled, the PC beeps.
•
The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears in the system tray
, if it is not already displayed for another card, (and unless the feature has been disabled).
Windows Vista Windows XP Windows 2000
17
18
• Watcher launches (unless the autolaunch feature has been disabled).
The AirCard ExpressCard is powered as soon as you insert it.
Removing the AirCard ExpressCard
To remove the AirCard ExpressCard:
1.
Watcher if it is open.
2.
Click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the
to display the option to stop the card.
Windows Vista Windows XP Windows 2000
3.
Click the entry for “ NEC PCI to USB Open Host Controller ” or
“ Standard Enhanced PCI to USB Host Controller “.
4.
If a dialog box appears notifying you that it is safe to remove the card, click OK .
5.
Use the ejector to remove the AirCard ExpressCard from the slot.
Pull the card out of the slot by gripping both sides of the card and pulling the card straight out.
Correct Incorrect
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4: Activation
•
Account configuration procedures
•
Manual activation
• Automated activation
Account configuration procedures
The final step to making the AirCard ExpressCard operational is configuring it to use your
service provider account. The process of activation configures your AirCard ExpressCard with the required account parameters (phone number, username, password, etc.).
If you purchased a pre-activated AirCard ExpressCard, this step is not necessary. Once the application software and drivers are installed, the
AirCard ExpressCard is ready for use.
Otherwise, you must use the Activation Wizard to activate and configure your account.
4
Activation Wizard
The Activation Wizard walks you through the process of configuring an account. The process and options vary based on the service provider.
This section is a guide only. Consult the Quick Start Guide, and follow the directions on screen and instructions given by your service provider representative.
If your AirCard ExpressCard does not have an activated account, and
Watcher has started automatically, then the Activation Wizard should start automatically. If this does not happen:
1.
Ensure Watcher is running. If it is not, double-click the Watcher icon on your desktop.
2.
Start the Activation Wizard: select TOOLS > Activation Wizard.
To begin activation of the AirCard ExpressCard, click Next .
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Manual activation
Activation involves phoning your service provider, exchanging information, and entering your account information into the appropriate fields in the wizard. (To use this method, you require a phone.)
To use manual activation, use the Next and Back buttons to navigate through the wizard, noting the following:
• Obtain the billing information listed on the second window of the wizard, before you phone the service provider or proceed to the next window.
• Contact your service provider. Inform your service provider that you are activating your Sierra Wireless AirCard 597E ExpressCard.
The representative will request your ESN
(Electronic Serial
. This is displayed in the Activation Wizard (and is printed on the AirCard ExpressCard box and on the label on the back of the AirCard ExpressCard).
• As prompted by the wizard, enter the information provided by the service representative.
• Select Finish in the final window of the wizard.
On completion of the Activation Wizard, the AirCard ExpressCard is ready for use. The following chapters explain how to use Watcher to manage and monitor your connections.
Automated activation
To use automated activation:
1.
Select the Automated Activation radio button and click Next .
2.
The wizard advises that it will make a network connection, dialing the displayed number. Leave the number unchanged unless told by a technical service representative to enter a different value. Click Next .
3.
Follow any instructions or prompts provided to activate the
ExpressCard.
Watcher displays the activation progress in the
.
When the process is complete you should see the message “Ready to
Connect” .
Note: If you do not get the “Ready to Connect” message, retry the process. If the process continues to fail, use
manual activation (page 20) or contact your
service provider.
At this point your AirCard ExpressCard is ready to use.
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5: Care and Maintenance of Your
AirCard ExpressCard
As with any electronic device, the AirCard ExpressCard must be handled with care to ensure reliable operation. Follow these guidelines in using and storing the AirCard ExpressCard:
• Do not apply adhesive labels to the AirCard ExpressCard. This may cause the AirCard ExpressCard to become jammed inside the card slot.
• The AirCard ExpressCard should fit easily into your ExpressCard slot. Forcing the AirCard ExpressCard into a slot may damage connector pins.
• Protect the card from liquids, dust, and excessive heat.
• When not installed in your computer, store the AirCard
ExpressCard in its carry case.
5
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6: Watcher Basics
• Starting and closing
Watcher
• Components of the
Watcher Window
• Interpreting icons
• Online Help
• Troubleshooting
• Using an external antenna
Watcher is the application that allows you to manage and monitor
the connection between the AirCard ExpressCard and the CDMA
network. You use Watcher to:
•
Determine your signal strength, roaming status, 3G high-speed
data availability, and other network connection parameters
• Initiate data calls
• View call statistics
• Receive and send SMS messages
• Customize features and options
Depending on Watcher settings, you may be able to connect to the
CDMA network without starting Watcher—simply by launching whatever application you want to use (such as your web browser or e-mail application). However, Watcher and its icon in the system tray won’t be available for you to monitor the status of the connection.
6
Starting and closing Watcher
Depending on your settings in the Options window, Watcher launches automatically anytime you insert the AirCard ExpressCard. You can also launch Watcher by:
• Double-clicking the Watcher icon on your desktop
• Selecting:
In Windows Vista or Windows XP: Start > All Programs >
Sierra Wireless > 3G Wireless Module > EVDO Watcher
In Windows 2000: Start > Programs > Sierra Wireless >
3G Wireless Module > EVDO Watcher
The standard Windows control buttons in the upper right corner of the window are used to minimize or close Watcher. When minimized,
Watcher does not appear as a taskbar button. Instead, an icon is
, usually at the right end of the taskbar. (See
“Minimized icons” on page 28.)
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Components of the Watcher window
The window has three areas that display messages and icons: the
Connection Status Area (
), Call Status Area ( page 27 ), and
). These areas are shown in Figure 6-1 that
follows.
A menu bar is located on the upper left side of the window.
Windows control buttons are in the top right corner.
Menu bar
Toggle Full/Compact button
Minimize button Close button
Connection Status Area
Call Status Area
Indicator area
Connection
Manager
Button
Figure 6-1: Watcher window
For a detailed description of each option in the menus, see the online help .
Window controls
• The Minimize button closes the Watcher window but leaves the application running. When Watcher is minimized, you can use the Watcher icon in the
system tray to determine the AirCard
ExpressCard status. (See
.) This icon replaces a taskbar button for Watcher.
Once minimized, you can redisplay the Watcher window by selecting the Watcher icon in the system tray. You can also restore the window by double-clicking the desktop shortcut or launching Watcher from the Start menu.
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• The Toggle Full/Compact button is used to switch between the full Watcher window and the compact view:
The compact view allows you to see connection status and indicators while using less space on the desktop.
To make data connections, disconnect, or access Watcher features, you must use full view. To return to full view, select the view toggle button in the top right.
• The Close button is used to exit Watcher.
Docking
You can set the Watcher window to “jump” to the edge of your screen when you move the window close to an edge. This lets you easily position Watcher in a corner of the screen.
• Select VIEW > Docking
Always On Top
You can set Watcher to always display in front of other windows. This allows you to monitor connection status while using another maximized application, such as your web browser.
• Select VIEW > Always On Top
Interpreting icons
Watcher makes extensive use of icons to indicate status and events.
The various icons are described in the following sections on the display areas of Watcher.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Connection Status Area
The Connection Status Area uses the icons shown in the following table.
Table 6-1: Connection Status Area icons
Icon Meaning
AirCard ExpressCard not detected (displayed in the left part of the Connection
Status Area).
The Signal Strength indicator (displayed in the left part of the Connection
Status Area) uses bars to show the intensity of the radio signal. The number of bars increases as signal strength increases to a maximum of five bars.
When the bars are dimmed and the antenna icon is crossed out, no connection is possible for one of these reasons:
• You are outside the CDMA network coverage area
• The signal strength is too weak
• A network or account problem is preventing the AirCard
ExpressCard from obtaining service
Indicates whether 1xEV-DO Rev. A
is available in this area.
Indicates whether 1xEV-DO
is available in this area.
Indicates whether 1X is available in this area. (Not displayed if 1xEV-DO is available).
The Roaming Status indicator shows whether you are roaming onto the network of a service provider other than your own.
When the indicator is off (gray), you are within the local coverage area of your service provider. When the indicator is on (solid black), you are in a “preferred” roaming area. When the indicator is blinking, you are within the coverage area of a CDMA network but not in a “preferred” roaming area.
Your coverage area and account charges depend upon your service provider and the type of account you have. There may be surcharges for roaming service that vary based on whether you are in a preferred or non-preferred roaming area. If there is no roaming agreement between your service provider and the local carrier, you may be unable to complete calls.
The In Use indicator shows whether a call is in progress. No icon is displayed when the
AirCard ExpressCard is idle. Otherwise, one of these icons is displayed:
A high-speed (1xEV-DO Rev. A )
packet data call is in progress.
A high-speed (1xEV-DO Rev. 0 )
packet data call is in progress.
A high-speed (1X) packet data call is in progress.
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Document 2130822. Rev 2 Mar.11
Table 6-1: Connection Status Area icons (continued)
Icon Meaning
A circuit switched data call is in progress.
A high-speed (1X or 1xEV-DO) packet data connection is
; the radio channel has been released. You can resume data transmission without the need of re-establishing the connection.
Some applications may not be able to function on a
A fatal error has occurred and the AirCard ExpressCard is inoperable.
1.
2.
Safely eject and remove your AirCard ExpressCard.
3.
Re-insert your AirCard ExpressCard.
4.
Restart Watcher.
5.
If this icon is still displayed, restart your computer.
Call Status Area
The Call Status Area displays messages related to the status or progress of a connection.
Where a duration timer is shown, timing begins when the call is initiated—not from the time the call is fully connected. This is a measure of the time the AirCard ExpressCard has been using the radio channel (a wireless network resource).
“ Click this display to exit PowerSave mode ” indicates that the AirCard
ExpressCard could not find a system within a 15 minute interval. To conserve power, the AirCard ExpressCard reduces channel scanning to once every three minutes. To force the AirCard ExpressCard out of
PowerSave mode, click in the Call Status Area. The AirCard
ExpressCard performs a channel scan and, if no network is detected, returns to PowerSave mode.
Indicator area
The Indicator area displays an icon that notifies you when you receive
messages. The icon is black when “on” and gray when “off”.
Table 6-2: Indicator Area icons
Icon Meaning
The SMS message indicator shows whether you have unread messages. A blinking icon indicates that there are one or more urgent or important unread messages.
To display the SMS Express window (in which the messages are displayed) select TOOLS > SMS Express… or double-click the icon.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Minimized icons
Watcher displays an icon in the Windows system tray (which is usually located in the lower right corner of your screen). The system tray icon indicates your connection status or notifies you when you have SMS messages.
Table 6-3: System tray icons
Icon Meaning
You are in service on the network but have no active data connection.
The number of red bars indicates the signal strength.
You have an active data connection.
The number of green bars indicates the signal strength.
You are not in service on the CDMA network.
You have a new SMS message.
Only one icon can be displayed at a time. The priority of icons, from highest to lowest, is:
• SMS message(s)
• Active or inactive connection.
For example, if you have unread SMS messages, and then establish a data connection, the icon still displays as an unread SMS message.
Online Help
Watcher includes extensive online help to provide operating hints and step-by-step instructions for getting the most from your AirCard
ExpressCard.
You can access online help in several ways:
• Press <F1> in any window.
• Click the Hints button available in many windows.
• Use Windows Explorer to navigate to Program Files >
Sierra Wireless > 3G Wireless Module > Generic > Watcher.chm
.
Double-click to open the help file.
The help file has a table of contents, an index, and search capabilities.
28 2130822
Document 2130822. Rev 2 Mar.11
Troubleshooting
The
includes descriptions of most common error messages. Look in the table of contents under Troubleshooting.
For help with other problems:
• Consult the Sierra Wireless web site at www.sierrawireless.com
, where you will find an extensive knowledge base that can be searched to address most problems, and the Installation Troubleshooting wizard (in the Support section).
• Contact your service provider.
Using an external antenna
You can improve the signal strength, by attaching an external antenna (sold separately).
To attach the external antenna:
1.
Remove the ExpressCard from your computer.
2.
Remove the rubber cap (located on the thick end of the card).
3.
Holding the antenna cable by the connector (end) part, carefully push the connector part of the cable into the corresponding connector on the AirCard ExpressCard. (The connector is on the thick end of the AirCard ExpressCard).
4.
Carefully
into your computer’s card slot.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
30 2130822
7: Technical Specifications
•
LED operation
•
Radio frequency and electrical specifications
•
Environmental specifications
This chapter describes the function of the
, and provides technical product data for the AirCard ExpressCard.
7
LED operation
The AirCard ExpressCard has two
light bars near the antenna end of the card. The LED light bars operate as follows:
Table 7-1: LED operation
LED State Indicates
Off
Amber, not blinking
Off
The card has no power. You have powered off the card (TOOLS > Power Off Modem), or the card is not completely inserted into the ExpressCard slot, or the computer is in suspend mode (which powers down the card).
Blue, not blinking
The card has power and is working properly.
Blue, blinking
The card’s firmware is being updated. Do not
remove the card.
Amber, blinking
The card is searching for service.
If this LED state persists, see the online Help (“Not
In Service“).
An error has occurred. Eject the card (
and reinsert it.
Amber, blinking
No service is available.
See the online Help (“Not in Service”).
1X coverage is detected. Ready to connect to the
network (click Connect).
Amber, not blinking
The card is connected to the
send or receive data.
Blue, blinking
1x-EVDO coverage (Rev. 0 or Rev. A) is detected.
Ready to connect to the network (click Connect).
Blue, not blinking
The card is connected to the
and can send or receive data.
Document 2130822. Rev 2 Mar.11
31
AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
Radio frequency and electrical specifications
Table 7-2: Radio frequency and electrical specifications
Approvals Compliant with:
)
IS-707-A Data, IS-856 (CDMA 1x-EVDO
), IS-866, IS-
878, IS-890,
CDMA Development Group
(ID: N7NAC597E)
Industry Canada (ID: 2417C-AC597E)
Voltage
Current
+3.3 Vdc from ExpressCard slot
Maximum: 1 A
Typical data call current (talk mode):
Standby:
370 mA (1X)
420 mA (1xEV-DO)
50 mA (1xEV-DO/IS2000 hybrid mode)
200 mW (+23 dBm) Transmitter power
Transmit
Receive
: 1805 to 1870
Cellular: 824 to 849 MHz
PCS: 1715 to 1780 MHz
Cellular: 868 to 894 MHz
1.25 MHz Channel spacing
Frequency stability
±150 Hz
Environmental specifications
Table 7-3: Environmental specifications
Operating temperature
Storage temperature
-30 to +60°C (ambient, outside PCMCIA enclosure)
-20 to +85°C
Humidity
Vibration
Drop
95%, non-condensing
147 m/s
2
(15 G) sinusoidal vibration, 10 to 2000 Hz,
20 minute sweep, 12 cycles per axis, 3 axes for
36 cycles. 12 hours total test time (non-operating)
30” (76.2 cm) on to vinyl covered concrete
32 2130822
8: Regulatory Information
•
Important safety/ compliance information
•
Information pertaining to
OEM customers
Important safety/compliance information
The design of the AirCard 597E ExpressCard complies with U.S.
Federal Communications Commission (
) and Industry Canada (IC) guidelines respecting safety levels of radio frequency (RF) exposure for portable devices, which in turn are consistent with the following safety standards previously set by Canadian, U.S. and international standards bodies:
• ANSI / IEEE C95.1-1999, IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with
Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic
Fields, 3kHz to 300 GHz
• National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
(NCRP) Report 86, -1986, Biological Effects and Exposure Criteria for Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields
• Health Canada, Safety Code 6, 1999, Limits of Human Exposure to
Radio frequency Electromagnetic Fields in the Frequency Range from 3 kHz to 300 GHz
• International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection
(ICNIRP) 1998, Guidelines for limiting exposure to time-varying electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields (up to 300 GHz)
FCC ID: N7NAC597E
CAUTION: The AirCard 597E ExpressCard has been tested for compliance with FCC / IC RF exposure limits in the laptop computer(s) configurations with the side loading ExpressCard slot and can be used in laptop computers with substantially similar physical dimensions, construction, and electrical and RF characteristics. This
ExpressCard must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Use of this device in any other configuration may exceed the FCC RF Exposure compliance limit.
Note: If this ExpressCard is intended for use in any other portable device, you are responsible for separate approval to satisfy the SAR requirements of Part 2.1093 of FCC rules.
WARNING (EMI) - United States FCC Information - This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device peripheral, pursuant to Part 15, 22, and 24 of the
FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation.
8
Document 2130822. Rev 2 Mar.11
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
34
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1.
This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2.
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesirable operation.
FCC guidelines stipulate that the antenna should be more than 1.8 cm from the user.
The highest reported SAR values of the AirCard 597E ExpressCard by
Sierra Wireless are:
1.
Separation distance of at least 1.8 cm needs to be maintained to user’s lap with the AirCard 597E ExpressCard inserted into the bottom ExpressCard slot of the laptop computer (1.0 mW/g).
CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by
Sierra Wireless could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
WARNING (EMI) - Canada - This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the interference causing equipment standard entitled
"Digital Apparatus", ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.
Cet appareil numérique respecte les limites de bruits radioélectriques applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans la norme sur le matériel brouilleur: "Appareils Numériques", NMB-003
édictée par le ministre des Communications.
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
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Document 2130822. Rev 2 Mar.11
civilian agency contracts or any successor regulations. If further government regulations apply, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with such regulations.
Information pertaining to OEM customers
The AirCard 597E ExpressCard has been granted modular approval for mobile applications. Integrators may use the AirCard 597E
ExpressCard in their final products without additional FCC / IC certification if they meet the following conditions. Otherwise, additional
FCC / IC approvals must be obtained.
1.
At least 20 cm separation distance between the antenna and the user’s body must be maintained at all times.
2.
To comply with FCC / IC regulations limiting both maximum RF output power and human exposure to RF radiation, the maximum antenna gain must not exceed 5.55 dBi in the Cellular band and 4.95 dBi in the PCS band.
3.
The AirCard 597E ExpressCard and its antenna must not be colocated with any other transmitter or antenna within a host device.
4.
A label must be affixed to the outside of the end product into which the AirCard 597E ExpressCard is embedded, with a statement similar to the following:
This device contains TX FCC ID: N7NAC597E .
This equipment contains equipment certified under IC: 2417C-
AC597E .
5.
A user manual with the end product must clearly indicate the operating requirements and conditions that must be observed to ensure compliance with current FCC / IC RF exposure guidelines.
The end product with an embedded AirCard 597E ExpressCard must pass the unintentional emission testing and properly authorized per
FCC Part 15 requirements.
Note: If this ExpressCard is intended for use in a portable device, you are responsible for separate approval to satisfy the SAR requirements of FCC Part
2.1093 and IC RSS-102.
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
36 2130822
Appendix A: Glossary
1X
1x-EVDO bps
CDMA
CDMA 1X dormant
ESN
ExpressCard™
One Times Radio Transmission Technology (the "one times" refers to the frequency spectrum). Supports Internet connections with data rates up to 153
. Actual speed depends on the network conditions. Compare to 1x-EVDO .
A high-speed standard for cellular packet data communica-
tions.
Rev. A supports Internet connections with data rates up to
3.1
Mbps (downlink from the network) and 1.8 Mbps (uplink to the network).
Rev. 0 supports Internet connections with data rates up to
2.4
Mbps (downlink from the network) and 153
(uplink to the network).
Average data rates are: for Rev. A: 450–800 Kbps (downlink from the network) and 300–400 Kbps (uplink to the network); for Rev. 0: 400-700 Kbps (downlink from the network) and
40-80 Kbps (uplink to the network).
Actual speed depends on the network conditions. Compare to
bits per second—The actual data speed over the transmission medium.
Code Division Multiple Access—A wideband spread spectrum technique used in digital cellular, personal communications services, and other wireless networks. Wide channels
(1.25
MHz ) are obtained through spread spectrum transmissions, thus allowing many active users to share the same channel. Each user is assigned a unique digital code, which differentiates the individual conversations on the same channel.
Also known as 1X , this is a high-speed standard for CDMA
cellular communications.
The packet data connection has the logical PPP session left
open while the underlying physical link (the radio channel) is released. When traffic is to resume, a radio channel is re-acquired and the original PPP session resumes.
Electronic Serial Number—The unique first-generation serial number assigned to the AirCard ExpressCard for cellular network use. Compare to
Add-in memory and communications cards for portable computers. ExpressCard is a trademark of the
A
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37
AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
MHz
Mbps packet
PCMCIA
PCS roaming
FCC firmware host
IS
IS-95
Kbps
LAN
LED
MEID
SMS
Federal Communications Commission—The U.S. federal agency that is responsible for interstate and foreign communications.
The FCC regulates commercial and private radio spectrum management, sets rates for communications services, determines standards for equipment, and controls broadcast licensing. Consult www.fcc.gov
.
Software stored in ROM or EEPROM; essential programs that remain even when the system is turned off. Firmware is easier to change than hardware but more permanent than software stored on disk.
• A computer that uses a modem or a similar device to answer a calling computer.
• A source or destination in the communication network.
• A computer that contains data or files to be accessed by client computers. Also known as a server.
Interim Standard—After receiving industry consensus, the TIA forwards the standard to ANSI for approval.
The standard for
Kilobits per second—Actually 1000, not 1024, as used in computer memory size measurements of kilobytes.
Local Area Network
Light Emitting Diode—A semiconductor diode that emits visible or infrared light.
Mobile Equipment Identifier—The unique second-generation serial number assigned to the AirCard ExpressCard for cellular network use. Compare to
.
Mega-Hertz—One million cycles per second.
Megabits per second
A short fixed-length block of data, including a header, that is transmitted as a unit in a communications network.
Personal Computer Memory Card International Association—
The organization that standardizes ExpressCards and PC Cards.
Personal Communications Services—A cellular communication infrastructure that uses a different frequency range than AMPS.
A cellular subscriber is in an area where service is obtained from a cellular service provider that is not the subscriber’s provider.
Short message services—A feature that allows users of a wireless device on a wireless network to receive or transmit short electronic alphanumeric messages (up to 160 characters, depending on the service provider).
38 2130822
system tray
TIA
VPN
Usually located in the lower right corner of your screen
Telecommunications Industry Association—A standardssetting trade organization, whose members provide communications and information technology products, systems, distribution services and professional services in the
United States and around the world. Consult www.tiaonline.org
.
Virtual Private Network
Document 2130822. Rev 2 Mar.11
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AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide
40 2130822
Index
Numerics
1X description
1xEV-DO description
3G description
indicator (1xEV-DO and 1X)
A account activation
configuration
activation overview
automated
manual
Activation Wizard
always on top
antenna, external
B bands, frequency
C
care and maintenance
CDMA 1X description
CDMA 1xEV-DO description
CDMA network
frequency bands , 10 service providers , 10
circuit switched data description
call indicator
compact view
connection status
coverage
Rev 2 Mar.11
CSD description
D data
circuit switched - call indicator , 27
circuit switched - description , 9
dial-up data description
call indicator
docking
drivers description
E
ESN
EVDO description
external antenna
F
FCC compliance
ID
frequency bands, CDMA network
full view description
H hardware
removing
high-speed packet data
I
I/O space (input/output space) , 16
41
AirCard® 597E ExpressCard - User Guide icons connection status
indicator area
minimized
indicator area
indicators
circuit-switched data call , 27
connection status
inserting the AirCard
installation hardware
troubleshooting wizard
M
Mac OS X
MEID
memory required
Mobile Equipment Identifier , 14
N not in service indicator
notices, regulatory
O
online Help
operating hints
operating systems supported
P
PowerSave
Q
42
R
roaming definition
S service indicator
signal strength indicator - CDMA network
software overview
status area
indicator area
Windows system tray
suspend mode
system tray icons
T
taskbar icons , 28 tips, operating , 28
troubleshooting
V
VPN
W warning
EMI
Windows system tray icons
wireless ExpressCard
wizard - installation troubleshooting , 29
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