HP X09 Product manual

Add to my manuals
56 Pages

advertisement

HP X09 Product manual | Manualzz

XStream-PKG-E™ Ethernet RF Modem

XStream Ethernet RF Modem

System Setup

RF Modem Operation

RF Modem Configuration

RF Communication Modes

Appendices

Product Manual

v5.x00

For XStream RF Modem Part Numbers

900 MHz & 2.4 GHz Stand-alone RF Modems by MaxStream, Inc.

355 south, 520 west, suite 180

Lindon, UT 84042

Phone: (801) 765-9885

Fax: (801) 765-9895

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

© 2006 MaxStream, Inc. All rights reserved

 

The contents of this manual may not be transmitted or reproduced in any  form or by any means without the written permission of MaxStream, Inc.  

XStream™ and XStream‐PKG‐E™ are trademarks of MaxStream, Inc. 

XPort™ is a registered trademark of Lantronix. Ethernet™ is a registered  trademark of XEROX. 

 

Technical Support:

Phone: (801) 765-9885

Live Chat: www.maxstream.net

E-Mail: [email protected]

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  ii 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Contents 

1. XStream Ethernet RF Modem 4

1.1. Features Overview 4

1.1.1. Worldwide Acceptance 4

1.2. Product Overview 5

1.2.1. Specifications 5

1.3. External Interface 6

1.3.1. Front and Back Views 6

2. System Setup 7

2.1. Data Radio System Components 7

2.1.1. System Description 7

2.2. Com Port Communications 8

2.2.1. Install Software 8

2.2.2. Setup Com Port and IP Address 9

2.2.3. Assign Static IP Address 10

2.2.4. Change Com Port Number 10

2.2.5. Test Communications (X-CTU) 11

2.3. Telnet Communications 12

2.3.1. Test Communications (Telnet) 12

3. RF Modem Operation 13

3.1. Modes of Operation 13

3.1.1. Idle Mode 13

3.1.2. Transmit Mode 13

3.1.3. Receive Mode 15

3.1.4. Sleep Mode 15

3.1.5. Command Mode 18

4. RF Modem Configuration 20

4.1. Hands-On Programming Examples 20

4.1.1. Configuration Setup Options 20

4.1.2. AT Command Examples 21

4.1.3. Binary Command Example 21

4.2. Command Reference Table 22

4.3. Command Descriptions 23

5. RF Communication Modes 38

5.1. Addressing 39

5.1.1. Address Recognition 39

5.2. Basic Communications 40

5.2.1. Streaming Mode (Default) 40

5.2.2. Repeater Mode 41

5.3. Acknowledged Communications 44

5.3.1. Acknowledged Mode 44

5.3.2. Multi-Streaming Mode 46

Appendix A: Agency Certifications 50

FCC Certification 50

FCC Notices 50

OEM Labeling Requirements 51

Antenna Usage 51

FCC Approved Antennas 52

European Compliance (2.4 GHz only) 53

Restrictions 53

Europe (2.4 GHz) Approved Antenna List 54

IC (Industry Canada) Certification 54

Appendix B: Additional Information 55

1-Year Warranty 55

Ordering Information 55

Contact MaxStream 56

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  iii 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

1. XStream Ethernet RF Modem 

XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modems extend system performance and flexibility by adding serial connectivity to Ethernet networks.

MaxStream RF Modems handle the complexities inherent to RF communications (modulation, demodulation, frequency synthesizers, amplifiers, filters, FCC approvals, etc.), so OEMs and integrators can focus resources beyond the wireless portion of the data system.

1.1. Features Overview

Long Range at a Low Cost Easy-to-Use

9XStream-PKG-E (900 MHz) Range:

• Indoor/Urban: up to 1500’ (450 m)

• Outdoor line-of-sight: up to 7 miles (11 km) w/2.1 dBm dipole antenna

• Outdoor line-of-sight: up to 20 miles (32 km) w/high gain antenna

24XStream-PKG-E (2.4 GHz) Range:

• Indoor/Urban: up to 600’ (180 m)

• Outdoor line-of-sight: up to 3 miles (5 km) w/2.1 dBm dipole antenna

• Outdoor line-of-sight: up to 10 miles (16 km) w/high gain antenna

Receiver sensitivity: -110 dBm (@ 900 MHz),

–105 dBm (@ 2.4 GHz)

Out-of-Box RF Experience - no configuration required

No Master/Slave setup dependencies

Advanced configurations using

Windows software & AT Commands

7-28 VDC power supply

Transparent Operation

Support for multiple data formats

(parity and data bits)

Portable (small form factor & low power)

Software-selectable interfacing rates

Advanced Networking & Security

Support for multiple data formats

XII™ Interference Immunity

True Peer-to-Peer (no “master” required), Point-to-

Point, Point-to-Multipoint & Multidrop

Retries and Acknowledgements

Power-saving Sleep Modes

(as low as 230 mA)

FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum)

Free & Unlimited

World Class Technical Support

7 hopping channels, each with over 65,000 unique network addresses available

1.1.1. Worldwide Acceptance

FCC Certified (USA) Refer to Appendix A for FCC Requirements.

Systems that contain XStream RF Modems automatically inherit MaxStream Certifications.

ISM (Industrial, Scientific & Medical) frequency band

Manufactured under ISO 9001:2000 registered standards

9XStream-PKG-E (900 MHz) RF Modems approved for use in US, Canada, Australia,

Israel (and more). 24XStream-PKG-E (2.4 GHz) adds Europe (EU) and other approvals.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  4 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

1.2. Product Overview

The XStream-PKG-E RF Modem comes configured to provide immediate wireless links between devices; however, the RF modem can be configured for additional functionality through the use of

a simple AT command interface [Refer to the Command Mode [p18] & RF Modem Configuration

[p20] sections for programming options].

1.2.1. Specifications

Table 1‐01. XStream‐PKG‐E Ethernet RF Modem Specifications 

Specification 9XStream-PKG-E (900 MHz) 24XStream-PKG-E (2.4 GHz)

Performance

Indoor/Urban Range

Outdoor LOS Range

Transmit Power Output

Interface Data Rate

Throughput Data Rate

RF Data Rate

Receiver Sensitivity

Power Requirements

Supply Voltage

Receive (RX) Current*

Transmit (TX) Current*

Power Down Current*

General

Up to 1500’ (450 m)

Up to 7 miles (11 km) w/ 2.1 dBm dipole antenna

Up to 20 miles (32 km) w/ high-gain antenna

100 mW (20 dBm)

Software selectable 125 – 65,000 bps

(Including non-standard baud rates)

9,600 bps

10,000 bps

-110 dBm

7-28 VDC

240 mA (@ 9V)

320 mA (@ 9V)

230 mA (@ 9V)

19,200 bps

20,000 bps

-107 dBm

Up to 600’ (180 m)

Up to 3 miles (5 km) w/ 2.1 dBm dipole antenna

Up to 10 miles (16 km) w/ high-gain antenna

50 mW (17 dBm)

Software selectable 125 – 65,000 bps

(Including non-standard baud rates)

9,600 bps

10,000 bps

-105 dBm

7-28 VDC

260 mA (@ 9V)

340 mA (@ 9V)

230 mA (@ 9V)

19,200 bps

20,000 bps

-102 dBm

Frequency

Spread Spectrum

Network Topology

902-928 MHz 2.4000-2.4835 GHz

Frequency Hopping, Wide band FM modulator

Peer-to-Peer, Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multipoint, Multidrop

Supported Network Protocols ARP, UDP, TCP, ICMP, Telnet, TFTP, AutoIP, DHCP, HTTP and SNMP (read-only)

Channel Capacity 7 hop sequences share 25 frequencies

Data Connection RJ-45 Female Ethernet Connection

Physical Properties

Enclosure Size

Weight

Operating Temperature

Antenna

Type

Connector

Impedance

2.750” x 5.500” x 1.125” (6.99cm x 13.97cm x 2.86cm)

7.1 oz. (200g)

0 to 70º C (commercial), -40 to 85º C (industrial)

½ wave dipole whip, 6.75” (17.1 cm), 2.1 dBi Gain

Reverse-polarity SMA (RPSMA)

50 ohms unbalanced

Certifications

FCC Part 15.247

Industry Canada (IC)

OUR9XSTREAM

4214A-9XSTREAM

Europe N/A

 

* Divide by 2 for 18V supply (constant wattage from 7 to 28V) 

OUR-24XSTREAM

4214A 12008

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  5 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

1.3. External Interface

1.3.1. Front and Back Views

Figure 1‐01. Front View 

1‐01d. RJ‐45 Port 

1‐01c. RSSI LEDs (all green) 

1‐01b. I/O & Power LEDs  

1‐01a. Power Switch 

* The Ethernet RF Modem does not support

Power-over-Ethernet (PoE). The device cannot be powered directly from a PoE port on a compatible hub.

However, it may be useful to send power on the unused wires of the CAT-5 cable in situation where the radio will be mounted in a location that optimizes radio coverage but may not have a power outlet nearby. There are several third part devices available that can inject the power onto the cable and then remove it at the remote side.

Figure 1‐02. Back View 

1‐02a. Reset Switch 

1‐01e. Power 

Connector*

1‐02c. Config 

Switch 

1‐02b. Antenna Port

1-01a. Power Switch

Move Power Switch to the ON (up) position to power the

XStream PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem.

1-01b. I/O & Power LEDs

LEDs indicate modem activity as follows:

Yellow (top LED) = Serial Data Out (to host)

Green (middle) = Serial Data In (from host)

Red (bottom) = Power/TX Indicator (Red light is on when powered and pulses off briefly during RF transmission)

1-01c. RSSI LEDs

RSSI LEDs indicate the amount of fade margin present in an active wireless link. Fade margin is the difference between the incoming signal strength and the modem’s receiver sensitivity.

3 LEDs ON = Very Strong Signal (> 30 dB fade margin)

2 LEDs ON = Strong Signal (> 20 dB fade margin)

1 LED ON = Moderate Signal (> 10 dB fade margin)

0 LED ON = Weak Signal (< 10 dB fade margin)

1-01d. RJ-45 Ethernet Port

Standard Female RJ-45 connector is used to connect unshielded twisted-pair CAT5 cabling.

1-01e. Power Connector *

7-28 VDC Power Connector.

1-02a. Reset Switch

Reset Switch forces the RF Modem to reset (or re-boot).

1-02b. Antenna Port

Antenna Port is a 50 Ω RF signal connector for connecting to an external antenna. Connector type is Reverse Polarity (RPSMA) female. The RPSMA has threads on the outside of a barrel and a male center conductor.

1-02c. Config (Configuration) Switch

The Config Switch provides an alternate way to enter AT Command

Mode.

To enter Command Mode at the Modem’s default baud rate:

Simultaneously press the Reset [1-02a] and Config switches; release the Reset Switch; then after 1 sec., release the Config

Switch. The RF Modem then enters AT Command Mode at the modem’s default baud rate.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  6 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

2. System Setup 

2.1. Data Radio System Components

XStream Radio Modems are designed to provide long range wireless links between devices of a data system. The PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem connects serial modems to Ethernet networks.

The following devices will be used to describe a data system that includes the XStream-PKG-E

Ethernet RF Modem:

XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem (“PKG-E”): The Ethernet RF Modem is an Ethernet-connected serial modem used for communication with other

MaxStream serial modems. The Ethernet RF Modem is not a wireless Ethernet

Bridge intended for Ethernet connectivity on both the remote and base sides of a wireless link.

XStream-PKG-R RS-232/485 RF Modem (“PKG-R”): The RS-232/485 RF

Modem is a serial modem that can be identified by its DB-9 serial port and 6switch DIP Switch.

XStream OEM RF Module (“OEM RF Module”): The OEM RF Module is mounted inside all XStream-PKG RF Modems and may be integrated into OEMdesigned products to transmit and receive data over-the-air.

2.1.1. System Description

The PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem can be used as an access point in a network of MaxStream RS-

232/RS-485 RF Modems (or other OEM RF Module Embedded Devices). XStream RF Modems support point-to-point, peer-to-peer, point-to-multipoint and multidrop network topologies. Below is an example of a typical point-to-multipoint application:

Figure 2‐01. XStream‐PKG‐E Ethernet RF Modem in a Point‐to‐Multipoint Data Radio System 

The Ethernet-connected RF modem supports com port and Telnet connection options:

• Com Port Redirector Software enables legacy serial applications to communicate with the

Ethernet RF Modem by forwarding serial data over Ethernet.

• Telnet communicates directly to the Ethernet RF Modem using port 14001. Refer to the

“Test Communications (Telnet)” section [p12] for an example that by-passes the com port.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  7 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

2.2. Com Port Communications

2.2.1. Install Software

The X-CTU and Com Port Redirector software facilitate communications through a PC’s com port.

Follow the instructions below to setup a com port for configuring and testing RF modems.

Installation #1: X-CTU Software (version 4.8.0 or higher*)

Use the X-CTU software to configure the Ethernet RF Modem and PC com port. The software provides is divided into four tabs:

• PC Settings tab - Setup PC serial com ports to interface with RF modem

• Range Test tab – Test RF modem’s range under varying environments

• Terminal tab – Test serial communications and set/read RF Modem parameters

• Modem Configuration tab – Set/read RF Modem parameters

Figure 2‐02. Tabs of the X‐CTU Software 

* To verify X‐CTU version number, click on the icon located in the top‐left corner of the X‐CTU user interface  and then select the “About X‐CTU…” menu item. 

To Install the X-CTU Software:

Double-click the “setup_X-CTU.exe” file then follow prompts of the installation screens. This file is located on the MaxStream CD and under the ‘Downloads’ section of the following web page: www.maxstream.net/support/ .

Installation #2: Ethernet Com Port Redirector

MaxStream provides com port redirection software that creates a com port in the operating system that will forward serial data to the IP address of the Ethernet-connected RF modem. The

Ethernet RF Modem can then be accessed by any com port enabled application.

The Ethernet Com Port Redirector must be installed separately to enable the “Ethernet Com

Ports” sub-tab of the X-CTU “PC Settings” tab. If this software is not installed, the features under the “Ethernet Com Ports” section are grayed and cannot be used.

The “Ethernet Com Ports” sub-tab enables user to perform functions such as the following:

• Discover Ethernet RF Modems on a network

• Setup serial com ports for XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modems

• Identify, assign and modify Ethernet RF Modem IP addresses

To Install the Ethernet Com Port Redirector:

1. Double-click the “setup_ComPortRedirector.exe” file then follow prompts of the installation screens. This file is located in the “software” folder of the MaxStream CD.

2. Re-boot the PC to complete installation.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  8 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

2.2.2. Setup Com Port and IP Address

The XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem supports DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) and Auto IP protocols. Both protocols automatically assign IP addresses to nodes of a network.

Ethernet RF Modem Discovery

The X-CTU Software provides an easy-to-use interface that searches a local network and then displays Ethernet RF Modems found.

Discover Ethernet RF Modem, Map Com Port & Assign IP Address:

1. Install both the X-CTU and the Ethernet Com Port Redirector software [Refer to “Install

Software” section on previous page]. Re-boot the PC if prompted to do so.

2. Launch the X-CTU Software and select the PC Settings tab; then select the “Ethernet Com

Ports” sub-tab. [Figure 2-03]

Æ After the Com Port Redirector is installed (& PC is re-booted), a “Setup Com Port” dialog box will appear the first time the “Ethernet Com Ports sub-tab is selected. For subsequent uses of the sub-tab, select the ‘New IP Address’ button and proceed to step 4.

3. Select the ‘OK’ button.

Æ All discovered PKG-E Ethernet RF Modems will be displayed in a new “Assign IP Address”

dialog box. [Figure 2-04]

4. Highlight one of the discovered Ethernet RF Modems (Modem IP and Hardware Addresses are

listed in the “… discovered Ethernet Modem” section) [Figure 2-03]. If an Ethernet Modem is

not discovered, enter the IP address manually in the “Enter IP Address…” box.

5. Select the ‘OK’ button.

Æ Newly assigned Ethernet Modem is listed under the “Ethernet Com Ports” sub-tab and the first available com port is assigned to it. Note that its status is “Queued as new”.

6. Select the ‘Apply’ button [located in the ‘Changes’ section of the “Ethernet Com Ports” sub-

tab - Figure 2-03]. Even if an Ethernet RF Modem appears in the ‘Ethernet Com Port’ list, the

new com port cannot be used until changes are applied and the PC is re-booted.

7. Re-boot the PC; then re-launch the X-CTU Software. The com port can now be used to communicate with the RF Modem.

Figure 2‐03. Ethernet Com Ports sub‐tab 

(Ethernet Com Ports sub‐tab is enabled by installing  the Ethernet Com Port Redirector Software.) 

Figure 2‐04. Assign IP Address dialog box  

If the Ethernet RF Modem is left in DHCP mode, it may become necessary to reconfigure a mapped com port any time an IP address is re-assigned by the DHCP server. Dynamic addressing is supported, but setting a static IP address can simplify the application.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  9 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

2.2.3. Assign Static IP Address

To assign a static IP address to the Ethernet RF Modem, follow the steps outlined below. A static

IP address may be necessary when:

• The Ethernet RF Modem and the host PC are on different subnets

• The Ethernet RF Modem IP address might be changed by a DHCP server

Configure a static IP address on a local network:

1. Install both the X-CTU Software and the Ethernet Com Port Redirector software [Refer to

“Com Port Communications” section - p8]. Re-boot the PC if it has not been re-booted since

the installation of the Ethernet Com Port Redirector.

2. Launch the X-CTU Software and select the “PC Settings” tab; then select the “Ethernet Com

Ports” sub-tab [Figure 2-03]

Æ After the Ethernet Com Port Redirector is installed (and PC is re-booted), a “Setup Com

Port” dialog box will appear the first time the “Ethernet Com Ports” sub-tab is selected. The following steps are written under the assumption the sub-tab has already been selected at least one time.

3. Select the “Discover modems” button to display which modems are on-line and which are not; then click the ‘OK’ button of the “Discover Ethernet Modems” dialog box.

4. Click-on and highlight an Ethernet RF Modem from the ‘Ethernet Com Ports’ list.

5. Select the ‘Com Port Properties’ button [Figure 2-03].

6. Select the ‘Modify’ button of the “Properties” dialog box [Figure 2-05].

7. Type a new IP address; then select the ‘OK’ button [Figure 2-05].

8. Select the ‘OK’ button of the “Properties” dialog box.

9. Select the ‘Apply’ button that is under the ‘Changes’ section of the “Ethernet Com Ports” subtab.

Æ XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem re-boots and the new IP Address is saved.

Figure 2‐05. Properties & Change IP dialog boxes 

2.2.4. Change Com Port Number

During Com Port Redirector setup, one com port is automatically assigned. Additional com ports are user-assigned. Use the following steps to manually change a com port number:

Change Ethernet RF Modem’s Com Port Number:

1. Once the Ethernet RF Modem is recognized and displayed under the “Ethernet Com Ports” sub-tab, select the ‘New Com Port’ button. Follow the steps outlined in the “Ethernet RF

Modem Discovery” section [p9].

2. Type-in the IP Address of the Ethernet Modem and highlight a com port number; then select the ‘OK’ button.

3. Select the ‘Apply’ button; then re-boot the PC if prompted to do so.

4. Go to the “Ethernet Com Ports” sub-tab of the X-CTU Software’s “PC Settings” tab.

5. Highlight the old com port entry, select the ‘Delete Com Port’ button, then select the ‘Apply’ button.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  10 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

2.2.5. Test Communications (X-CTU)

When testing a wireless link, MaxStream suggests creating the link using the following components:

• XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem (connected to a local network)

• XStream-PKG-R RS-232/485 RF Modem (w/ loopback adapter)

• PC (connected to a local network)

• Accessories (Loopback adapter, CAT5 UTP cable, power supplies and RPSMA antennas)

Hardware Setup for Loopback Test:

1. Connect the XStream-PKG-E (Ethernet) RF Modem and a PC to active Ethernet ports of the same local network using CAT5 cables (included w/ PKG-EA accessories package).

2. Attach the serial loopback adapter to the DB-9 serial connector of the XStream-PKG-R (RS-

232) RF Modem. The serial loopback adapter configures the PKG-R RF Modem to function as a repeater by looping serial data back into the modem for retransmission.

3. Configure the PKG-R (RS-232) RF Modem for RS-232 operation using the built-in DIP Switch. Dip Switch 1 should be ON (up) and the remaining switches should be OFF (down).

4. Attach RPSMA antennas to both RF Modems.

5. Power both RF Modems with power supplies (included w/ accessories package).

Figure 2‐06. Hardware Setup for Testing a Wireless Link 

Test Wireless Link (X-CTU Method):

1. Follow the steps in the “Ethernet RF Modem Discovery” section [p9].

2. Setup hardware as shown in the “Hardware Setup…” steps above [Figure 2-06].

3. Select the “PC Settings” tab of the X-CTU Software; then highlight the Com Port that is forwarded to the PKG-E (Ethernet) RF Modem.

Æ Make sure PC com port settings (Baud rate, Parity, etc.) on the “PC Settings” tab match those of the Ethernet RF Modem.

4. Select the “Terminal” tab of the X-CTU Software.

5. Begin typing characters into the terminal window.

Æ Characters typed in the terminal should be echoed back to the screen [Figure 2-07]. Sent

characters appear in blue and received characters in red. With each character typed, the

‘Data Out’ and ‘Data In’ LEDs should flash briefly on each of the RF Modems.

Æ To double-check the Wireless link, turn off the power going to the remote PKG-R (RS-232)

RF Modem and leave the PKG-E Modem turned on. Type characters into the Terminal Window and note that characters are not echoed back.

Figure 2‐07. Terminal Tab of MaxStream’s X‐CTU Software 

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  11 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

2.3. Telnet Communications

In addition to com port communications, Telnet communications are also supported.

2.3.1. Test Communications (Telnet)

MaxStream Wireless links can be tested by connecting to the specific IP address and port number.

Test a Wireless Link (Telnet Connection):

1. Follow steps in the “Ethernet RF Modem Discovery” section [p9].

2. Setup hardware as shown in the ‘Hardware Setup for Loopback Test’ section of previous page

[Figure 2-06].

3. If using Windows: Select (Start Æ Run); then type “cmd” (without quotation marks) in the text box of the “Run” dialog box. Then select the ‘OK’ button.

If using Linux or UNIX: Run a command shell.

If using Mac OS X: Run (Applications Æ Utilities Æ Terminal).

[Remaining steps are for Windows users]

4. At the command prompt, type: telnet xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx 14001 <CR>

(“xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx” is the IP address of the Ethernet RF Modem, “14001” is the port number

and “<CR>” stands for carriage return or ‘Enter’ key.) [Figure 2-08]

5. Begin typing characters into the Telnet session window [Figure 2-09].

Æ Characters typed should be echoed back to the screen. With each character typed, the

“Data Out” and “Data In” LEDs should flash briefly on each of the PKG RF Modems.

The wireless link can be double-checked by turning off the XStream-PKG-R RS-232/485 RF

Modem (leaving the PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem on) and sending characters. When the PKG-R is turned off, characters should not be echoed back.

Figure 2‐08. Telnet Interface (connect to PKG‐E having an IP address of 192.168.0.168)  

Figure 2‐09. Telnet Interface (Sent & Echoed back characters)  

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  12 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

3. RF Modem Operation 

3.1. Modes of Operation

An on-board RF module enables the XStream RF Modem to send and receive data over-the-air.

The RF modem operates in five modes.

Figure 3‐01. RF Modem Modes of Operation 

The RF modem can only be in one mode at a time.

3.1.1. Idle Mode

When not receiving or transmitting data, the RF modem is in Idle Mode. The RF modem uses the same amount of power in Idle Mode as it does in Receive Mode.

The modem shifts into the other modes of operation under the following conditions:

• Serial data is received in the DI Buffer (Transmit Mode)

• Valid RF data is received through the antenna (Receive Mode)

• Command Mode Sequence is issued (Command Mode)

• Sleep Mode condition is met (Sleep Mode)

After responding to any of the preceding conditions, the modem automatically transitions back into Idle Mode.

Note: RF reception must complete before the modem is able to enter into Transmit Mode.

3.1.2. Transmit Mode

When the first byte of serial data is received from the UART in the DI buffer, the modem attempts to shift to Transmit Mode and initiate an RF connection with other modems. After transmission is complete, the modem returns to Idle Mode.

RF transmission begins after either of the following criteria is met:

1. RB bytes have been received in the DI buffer and are pending for RF transmission [refer to

RB (Packetization Threshold) command, p32].

The RB parameter may be set to any value between 1 and the RF packet size (PK), inclusive.

When RB = 0, the packetization threshold is ignored.

2. At least one character has been received in the DI buffer (pending for RF transmission) and

RO time has been observed on the UART [refer to RO (Packetization Timeout) command].

The timeout can be disabled by setting RO to zero. In this case, transmission will begin after

RB bytes have been received in the DI buffer.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  13 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Figure 3‐02. Data Transmission Sequence Æ 

After either RB or RO conditions are met, the modem then initializes a communications channel. [Channel initialization is the process of sending an

RF initializer that synchronizes receiving modems with the transmitting modem.

During channel initialization, incoming serial data accumulates in the DI buffer.]

Serial data in the DI buffer is grouped into RF packets [refer to PK (RF Packet

Size)]; converted to RF data; then transmitted over-the-air until the DI buffer is empty.

RF data, which includes the payload data, follows the RF initializer. The payload includes up to the maximum packet size (PK Command) bytes. As the transmitting modem nears the end of the transmission, it inspects the DI buffer to see if more data exists to be transmitted. This could be the case if more than PK bytes were originally pending in the DI buffer or if more bytes arrived from the UART after the transmission began. If more data is pending, the transmitting modem assembles a subsequent packet for transmission.

RF Data Packet

The RF packet is the sequence of data used for communicating information between MaxStream

Modems. An RF Packet consists of an RF Initializer and RF Data.

Figure 3‐03. RF Data Packet Components 

* When streaming multiple RF packets, the RF Initializer is only sent in front of the first packet.

RF Initializer

An RF initializer is sent each time a new connection sequence begins. The RF initializer contains channel information that notifies receiving modems of information such as the hopping pattern used by the transmitting modem. The first transmission always sends an RF initializer.

An RF initializer can be of various lengths depending on the amount of time determined to be required to prepare a receiving modem. For example, a wake-up initializer is a type of RF initializer used to wake remote modems from Sleep Mode (Refer to the FH, LH, HT and SM

Commands for more information). The length of the wake-up initializer should be longer than the length of time remote modems are in cyclic sleep.

Header

The header contains network addressing information that filters incoming RF data. The receiving modem checks for a matching Hopping Channel (HP parameter), Vendor Identification Number

(ID parameter) and Destination Address (DT parameter). Data that does not pass through all three network filter layers is discarded.

CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check)

To verify data integrity and provide built-in error checking, a 16-bit CRC (Cyclic Redundancy

Check) is computed for the transmitted data and attached to the end of each RF packet. On the receiving end, the receiving modem computes the CRC on all incoming RF data. Received data that has an invalid CRC is discarded [Refer to the Receive Mode section, next page].

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  14 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

3.1.3. Receive Mode

If a modem detects RF data while operating in Idle Mode, the modem transitions into Receive

Mode to start receiving RF packets.

Figure 3‐04. Reception of RF Data Æ  

After a packet is received, the modem checks the

CRC (cyclic redundancy check) to ensure that the data was transmitted without error. If the CRC data bits on the incoming packet are invalid, the packet is discarded. If the CRC is valid, the packet proceeds to the DO Buffer.

The modem returns to Idle Mode after valid RF data is no longer detected or after an error is detected in the received RF data. If serial data is stored in the DI buffer while the modem is in

Receive Mode, the serial data will be transmitted after the modem is finished receiving data and returns to Idle Mode.

3.1.4. Sleep Mode

Sleep Modes enable the XStream Modem to operate at minimal power consumption when not in use. Three Sleep Mode options are available:

• Pin Sleep (Host Controlled)

• Serial Port Sleep (Wake on Serial Port activity)

• Cyclic Sleep (Wake on RF activity)

For the modem to transition into Sleep Mode, the modem must have a non-zero SM (Sleep Mode)

Parameter and one of the following must occur:

1. The modem is idle (no data transmission or reception) for a user-defined period of time

[Refer to ST (Time before Sleep) Command].

2. SLEEP pin is asserted (only for Pin Sleep option).

In Sleep Mode, the modem will not transmit or receive data until the modem first transitions to

Idle Mode. All Sleep Modes are enabled and disabled using SM Command. Transitions into and out of Sleep Modes are triggered by various mechanisms as shown in the table below.

Table 3‐01. Summary of Sleep Mode Configurations 

Sleep Mode

Setting

Pin Sleep

(SM = 1)

Serial Port Sleep

(SM = 2)

Cyclic Sleep

(SM = 3-8)

Transition into

Sleep Mode

A microcontroller can shut down and wake modems by asserting (high) SLEEP pin.

Note: The module will complete a transmission or reception before activating Pin Sleep.

Automatic transition to Sleep Mode occurs after a userdefined period of inactivity (no transmitting or receiving of data). The period of activity is defined using the ST

(Time before Sleep) Command.

Transition out of

Sleep Mode

De-assert SLEEP pin.

When serial byte is received on the DI pin.

Related

Commands

SM

SM, ST

Automatic transition to Sleep Mode occurs in cycles as defined by the SM (Sleep Mode) Command.

Note: The cyclic sleep time interval must be shorter than the “Wake-up Initializer Timer” (set by LH Command).

After the cyclic sleep time interval elapses.

Note: Modem can be forced into Idle Mode if PW

(Pin Wake-up) Command is issued.

SM, ST, HT, LH,

PW

For more information about Sleep Modes, refer to the individual commands listed in “Related

Commands” column of the table.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  15 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Pin Sleep (SM = 1)

Pin Sleep requires the least amount of power. In order to achieve this state, DI3 (SLEEP) pin must be asserted (high). The modem remains in Pin Sleep until the DI3 pin is de-asserted.

After enabling Pin Sleep, the SLEEP pin controls whether the XStream Modem is active or in Sleep

Mode. When DI3 is de-asserted (low), the modem is fully operational. When DI3 is asserted

(high), the modem transitions to Sleep Mode and remains in its lowest power-consuming state until the DI3 (SLEEP) pin is de-asserted. DI3 is only active if the modem is setup to operate in this mode; otherwise the pin is ignored.

Once in Pin Sleep Mode, DO2 ( ) is de-asserted (high), indicating that data should not be sent to the modem. The PWR pin is also de-asserted (low) when the modem is in Pin Sleep Mode.

Note: The module will complete a transmission or reception before activating Pin Sleep.

Serial Port Sleep (SM = 2)

Serial Port Sleep is a Sleep Mode in which the XStream Modem runs in a low power state until serial data is detected on the DI pin.

When Serial Port Sleep is enabled, the modem goes into Sleep Mode after a user-defined period of inactivity (no transmitting or receiving of data). This period of time is determined by ST (Time before Sleep) Command. Once a character is received through the DI pin, the modem returns to

Idle Mode and is fully operational.

Cyclic Sleep (SM = 3-8)

Cyclic Sleep is the Sleep Mode in which the XStream Modem enters into a low-power state and awakens periodically to determine if any transmissions are being sent.

When Cyclic Sleep settings are enabled, the XStream Modem goes into Sleep Mode after a userdefined period of inactivity (no transmission or reception on the RF channel). The user-defined period is determined by ST (Time before Sleep) Command.

While the modem is in Cyclic Sleep Mode, DO2 ( ) is de-asserted (high) to indicate that data should not be sent to the modem during this time. When the modem awakens to listen for data,

DO2 is asserted and any data received on the DI Pin is transmitted. The PWR pin is also deasserted (low) when the modem is in Cyclic Sleep Mode.

The modem remains in Sleep Mode for a user-defined period of time ranging from 0.5 seconds to

16 seconds (SM Parameters 3 through 8). After this interval of time, the modem returns to Idle

Mode and listens for a valid data packet for 100 ms. If the modem does not detect valid data (on any frequency), the modem returns to Sleep Mode. If valid data is detected, the modem transitions into Receive Mode and receives incoming RF packets. The modem then returns to

Sleep Mode after a Period of inactivity that is determined by ST “Time before Sleep” Command.

The modem can also be configured to wake from cyclic sleep when SLEEP/DI3 is de-asserted

(low). To configure a modem to operate in this manner, PW (Pin Wake-up) Command must be issued. Once DI3 is de-asserted, the modem is forced into Idle Mode and can begin transmitting or receiving data. It remains active until no data is detected for the period of time specified by the ST Command, at which point it resumes its low-power cyclic state.

Note: The cyclic interval time defined by SM (Sleep Mode) Command must be shorter than the interval time defined by LH (Wake-up Initializer Timer). [Refer to figures below.]

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  16 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Cyclic Scanning. Each RF transmission consists of an RF Initializer and payload. The wake-up initializer contains initialization information and all receiving modems must wake during the wake-up initializer portion of data transmission in order to be synchronized with the transmitting modem and receive the data.

Figure 3‐05. Correct Configuration (LH > SM) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Length of the wake‐up initializer exceeds the time interval of Cyclic Sleep. The receiver is guaranteed to detect  the wake‐up initializer and receive the accompanying payload data. 

Figure 3‐06. Incorrect Configuration (LH < SM) 

 

 

Length of wake‐up initializer is shorter than the time interval of Cyclic Sleep. This configuration is vulnerable  to the receiver waking and missing the wake‐up initializer (and therefore also the accompanying payload data). 

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  17 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

3.1.5. Command Mode

To modify or read RF module parameters, the module must first enter into Command Mode - a state in which incoming characters are interpreted as commands and parameters. Two command types are available for programming the RF modem: AT Commands and Binary Commands.

IMPORTANT: For modified parameter values to persist in the RF modem’s registry, changes must be saved to non-volatile memory using the WR (Write) Command. Otherwise, parameter values are restored to previously saved values the next time the RF modem is powered off and then on again.

AT Commands

Enter AT Command Mode:

1. Send the 3-character command sequence “+++” and observe guard times before and after the command characters. [Refer to “Default AT Command Mode Sequence” below.] The

“Terminal” tab (or other serial communications software) of the X-CTU Software can be used to enter the sequence.

[OR]

2. Assert (low) the pin and turn the power going to the RF modem off and back on. To achieve this result, simultaneously press the Reset [Figure 1-02a] and Config [Figure 1-02c] switches; release the Reset Switch; then after 1 sec., release the Config Switch. The RF

Modem then enters AT Command Mode at the modem’s default baud rate.

The AT Command Mode Sequence (default parameter values are shown in parenthesis):

• Observe Guard Time Before (ATBT = 0x0A, no characters sent for one second)

• Enter three copies of the Command Sequence Character (ATCC = 0x2B, ASCII “+++“)

• Observe Guard Time After (ATAT = 0x0A, no characters sent for one second)

To Send AT Commands:

Send AT commands and parameters using the syntax shown below:

Figure 3‐07. Syntax for sending AT Commands 

NOTE: To read a parameter value stored in a register, leave the parameter field blank.

The preceding example would change the RF modem’s destination address to “1F”. To store the new value to non-volatile (long term) memory, the Write (ATWR) Command must follow.

System Response. When a command is sent to the modem, the modem will parse and execute the command. Upon successful execution of a command, the modem returns an “OK” message. If execution of a command results in an error, the modem returns an “ERROR” message.

To Exit AT Command Mode:

1. Send ATCN (Exit Command Mode) Command.

[OR]

2. If no valid AT Commands are received within the time specified by CT (Command Mode

Timeout) Command, the Modem automatically returns to Idle Mode.

For examples that step through the programming the modem using AT Commands, refer to the

RF Modem Configuration [p20] chapter.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  18 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Binary Commands

Sending and receiving parameter values using binary commands is the fastest way to change operating parameters of the XStream RF Modem. Binary commands are used most often to sample signal strength (RS parameter) and/or error counts; or change modem addresses and channels for polling data systems. Since the sending and receiving of register values takes place through the same serial data path as 'live' data (received RF payload), interference between the two types of data can be a concern.

Common questions about using binary commands:

• What are the implications of asserting CMD while live data is being sent or received?

• After sending serial data, is there a minimum time delay before CMD can be asserted?

• Is a delay required after CMD is de-asserted before payload data can be sent?

• How does one discern between live data and data received in response to a command?

The CMD pin must be asserted in order to send binary commands to the RF modem. The CMD pin can be asserted to recognize binary commands anytime during the transmission or reception of data. The status of the CMD signal is only checked at the end of the stop bit as the byte is shifted into the serial port. The application does not allow control over when data is received, except by waiting for dead time between bursts of communication.

If the command is sent in the middle of a stream of payload data to be transmitted, the command will essentially be executed in the order it is received. If the radio is continuously receiving data, the radio will wait for a break in the received data before executing the command.

The

signal will frame the response coming from the binary command request [Figure 3-08].

A minimum time delay of 100 µs (after the stop bit of the command byte has been sent) must be observed before the CMD pin can be de-asserted. The command executes after all parameters associated with the command have been sent. If all parameters are not received within 0.5 seconds, the modem returns to Idle Mode.

Note: When parameters are sent, they are two bytes long with the least significant byte sent first.

Binary commands that return one parameter byte must be written with two parameter bytes.

Refer to p21 for a binary programming example.

Commands can be queried for their current value by sending the command logically ORed (bitwise) with the value 0x80 (hexadecimal) with CMD asserted. When the binary value is sent (with no parameters), the current value of the command parameter is sent back through the DO pin.

Figure 3‐08. Binary Command Write then Read 

 

 

 

Signal #4 is CMD 

Signal #1 is the DIN signal to the radio 

Signal #2 is the DOUT signal from the radio 

Signal #3 is   

 

In this graph, a value was written to a register and then  read out to verify it. While not in the middle of other  received data, note that the   (DO2 pin) signal  outlines the data response out of the modem. 

IMPORTANT: For the XStream Modem to recognize a binary command, the RT (DI2 Configuration) parameter must be set to one. If binary programming is not enabled (RT ≠ 1), the modem will not recognize that the CMD pin is asserted and therefore will not recognize the data as binary commands.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  19 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

4. RF Modem Configuration 

4.1. Hands-On Programming Examples

For more information about entering Command Mode, sending commands and exiting Command Mode, refer to the Command Mode

section [p18].

4.1.1. Configuration Setup Options

After installing the X-CTU and Com Port Redirector Software [refer to

p8] to a PC, use one of the connection options below to send

commands to the XStream-PKG-E Ethernet RF Modem.

Examples in this section  cite the use of MaxStream’s 

X‐CTU Software for  programming the RF  modem. Other programs  such as Telnet Software  can also be used to  program the modem.

Option #1 – Local Network Connection

Connect a PC and the Ethernet RF Modem to active Ethernet connections of the same local network [as shown in the figure below].

Figure 4‐01.  Local Network Connection 

Option #2 – Direct PC Connection

Connect the Ethernet RF Modem directly to the PC through the PC’s Ethernet port [as shown in the figure below].

Figure 4‐02. Direct PC Connection 

Configuration Setup:

1. Install both the X-CTU Software and the Ethernet Com Port Redirector [Refer to the ‘Install

Software’ [p8] section for more information].

2. Connect the Ethernet RF Modem to a PC using either a Local Network [p20] or a Direct PC

[20] connection.

3. Follow the steps outlined in the ‘Ethernet RF Modem Discovery’ section [p9] to identify the

com port that will be used to configure the RF modem.

4. Launch the X-CTU Software on the PC and select the PC Settings tab.

5. Make sure values shown in the fields of the ‘Com Port Setup’ section match those of the

Ethernet RF Modem.

[This example is continued on the following page]

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  20 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

4.1.2. AT Command Examples

Send AT Commands (Using the X-CTU Terminal Tab):

After following the steps outlined in the Configuration Setup section [previous page], the RF modem is ready to be programmed. The following steps utilize the Terminal tab of the X-CTU

Software to read and write parameter values.

1. Highlight the Com Port from the ‘Select Com Port’ list that is mapped to the Ethernet RF

Modem.

2. Select the Terminal tab; then enter the following characters:

Sent AT Command

+++

ATDT <Enter>

ATDT1A0D <Enter>

ATWR <Enter>

ATCN <Enter>

System Response

OK <CR> (Enter RF modem into AT Command Mode)

0 <CR> (Read Current destination address)

OK <CR> (Change destination address to 0x1A0D)

OK <CR> (Write new value to non-volatile memory)

OK <CR> (Exit AT Command Mode)

NOTE: Multiple commands can be sent on one command line. The following command line entries will yield the same results as above. Commands must be separated by a comma (“,”).

Sent AT Command

+++

System Response

OK <CR> (Enter RF modem into AT Command Mode)

ATDT <Enter> 0 <CR> (Read Current destination address)

ATDT1A0D, WR, CN <Enter> OK <CR> (Execute multiple commands)

Both of the preceding examples change the RF modem destination address. If the RF modem is to communicate with other RF modems, their destination addresses must match.

Send AT Commands (Using the X-CTU Modem Configuration Tab):

After following the steps outlined in the Configuration Setup section [previous page], the RF modem is ready to be programmed. The following steps utilize the Modem Configuration tab of the X-CTU Software to read currently stored parameter values; then restore the modem parameters to their factory-default states.

1. Highlight the Com Port from the ‘Select Com Port’ list that is mapped to the Ethernet RF

Modem.

2. Select the Modem Configuration tab.

3. Select the ‘Read’ button. (Currently stored parameter values are displayed.)

4. Select the ‘Restore’ button. (Original default parameter values are restored and written to the RF modem’s non-volatile memory.)

4.1.3. Binary Command Example

Send Binary Commands:

Example: Use binary commands to change the XStream Modem’s destination address to 0x1A0D and save the new address to non-volatile memory.

1. RT Command must be set to “1” in AT Command Mode to enable binary programming.

2. Assert CMD (Pin is driven high). (Enter Binary Command Mode)

3. Send Bytes [Parameter bytes must be 2 bytes long]:

0D

1A

4. De-assert CMD (Pin is driven low).

(Least significant byte of parameter bytes)

(Most significant byte of parameter bytes)

WR Command)

(Exit Binary Command Mode)

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  21 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

4.2. Command Reference Table

Table 4‐01. XStream Commands (The RF modem expects numeric values in hexadecimal. ‘d’ denotes decimal equivalents.) 

AT

Command

AM v4.30*

AT

BD v4.2B*

BK v4.30*

BO v4.30*

BT

CB v4.30*

CC

CD v4.2B*

CE v4.30*

CF v4.30*

CL v4.30*

CM v4.30*

CN

CO v4.30*

Binary

Command

0x3A (58d)

0x05 (5d)

0x15 (21d)

0x2E (46d)

0x30 (48d)

0x04 (4d)

0x33 (51d)

0x13 (19d)

0x28 (40d)

0x34 (52d)

0x35 (53d)

0x39 (57d)

0x38 (56d)

0x09 (9d)

0x2F (47d)

CS v4.27D* 0x1F (31d)

CT

DC v4.30*

DR v4.30*

DT

E0

E1

ER

FH

FL

FT v4.27B*

GD

HP

HT

ID v4.2B*

0x06 (6d)

0x37 (55d)

0x2D (45d)

0x00 (0d)

0x0A (10d)

0x0B (11d)

0x0F (15d)

0x0D (13d)

0x07 (7d)

0x24 (36d)

0x10 (16d)

0x11 (17d)

0x03 (3d)

0x27 (39d)

AT Command Name

Auto-set MY

Guard Time After

Baud Rate

Serial Break Passing

Serial Break Timeout

Guard Time Before

Connection Duration Timeout

Command Sequence Character

DO3 Configuration

Connection Inactivity Timeout

Connection Failure Count

Last Connection Address

Connection Message

Exit AT Command Mode

DO3 Timeout

DO2 Configuration

Command Mode Timeout

Disconnect

DI3 Configuration

Destination Address

Echo Off

Echo On

Receive Error Count

Force Wake-up Initializer

Software Flow Control

Flow Control Threshold

Receive Good Count

Hopping Channel

Time before Wake-up Initializer

Modem VID

Range Command Category

- Networking & Security

0x02 – 0xFFFF [x 100 msec] Command Mode Options

Standard baud rates: 0 – 6

(custom rates also supported)

Serial Interfacing

0 – 1

0 - 0xFFFF [x 1 second]

0 – 0xFFFF [x 100 msec]

Serial Interfacing

Serial Interfacing

Command Mode Options

0x01 – 0xFFFF [x 100 msec] Networking & Security

0x20 – 0x7F

0 – 4

0 – 0xFFFF [x 10 msec]

Command Mode Options

Serial Interfacing

Networking & Security

0 – 0xFFFF

[read-only]

0 – 1

-

Networking & Security

Diagnostics

Networking & Security

Command Mode Options

0 - 0xFFFF [x 1 second]

0 – 4

Serial Interfacing

Serial Interfacing

0x02 – 0xFFFF [x 100 msec] Command Mode Options

- Networking & Security

-

-

0 – 4

0 – 0xFFFF

0 – 0xFFFF

-

0 – 1

0 – 0xFF [bytes]

Serial Interfacing

Networking & Security

Command Mode Options

Command Mode Options

Diagnostics

Sleep (Low Power)

Serial Interfacing

Serial Interfacing

0 – 0xFFFF

0 – 6

0 – 0xFFFF [x 100 msec]

User-settable: 0x10 - 0x7FFF

Read-only: 0x8000 – 0xFFFF

0 - 0xFFFF [x 100 msec]

0 – 0xFF [x 100 msec]

0 – 4

0 – 0xFFFF

0 – 0xFFFF

0 – 5

0 – 1

0 - 0x100 [bytes]

0 – 1

0 - 0x100 [bytes]

-

0 – 0xFF [slots]

0 – 0xFFFF [x 200 µsec]

0 - 0x7F [x 100 msec]

0 – 0xFF

0x06 – 0x36 [read-only]

0 - 2

[read-only]

0 - 1

0 – 0xFFFF [read-only]

0 – 0xFFFF [read-only]

0 – 8

Diagnostics

Networking & Security

Sleep (Low Power)

Networking & Security

IU v4.30*

LH

MD v4.30*

MK

MY v4.30*

NB v4.30*

PC v4.22*

PK v4.30*

PW v4.22*

RB v4.30*

RE

RN v4.22*

RO v4.2A*

RP v4.2A*

0x3B (59d)

0x0C (12d)

0x32 (50d)

0x12 (18d)

0x2A (42d)

0x23 (35d)

0x1E (30d)

0x29 (41d)

0x1D (29d)

0x20 (32d)

0x0E (14d)

0x19 (25d)

0x21 (33d)

0x22 (34d)

DI2, DI3 Update Timer

Wake-up Initializer Timer

RF Mode

Address Mask

Source Address

Parity

Power-up Mode

RF Packet Size

Pin Wake-up

Packetization Threshold

Restore Defaults

Delay Slots

Packetization Timeout

RSSI PWM Timer

RR v4.22*

RS v4.22*

RT

RZ v4.30*

SB v4.2B*

SL v4.27C*

SM

0x18 (24d)

0x1C (28d)

0x16 (22d)

0x2C (44d)

0x36 (54d)

SH v4.27C* 0x25 (37d)

0x26 (38d)

0x01 (1d)

Retries

RSSI

DI2 Configuration

DI Buffer Size

Stop Bits

Serial Number High

Serial Number Low

Sleep Mode

ST

SY

TO v4.30*

TR v4.22*

0x02 (2d)

0x17 (23d)

0x31 (49d)

0x1B (27d)

Time before Sleep

Time before Initialization

DO2 Timeout

Transmit Error Count

TT v4.22*

VR

0x1A (26d)

0x14 (20d)

Streaming Limit

Firmware Version

WR 0x08 Write

* Firmware version in which the command and parameter options were first supported. 

Serial Interfacing

Sleep (Low Power)

Networking & Security

Networking & Security

Networking & Security

Serial Interfacing

Command Mode Options

Serial Interfacing

Sleep (Low Power)

Serial Interfacing

(Special)

Networking & Security

Serial Interfacing

Diagnostics

Networking & Security

Diagnostics

Serial Interfacing

Diagnostics

Serial Interfacing

Diagnostics

Diagnostics

Sleep (Low Power)

0x10 – 0xFFFF [x 100 msec] Sleep (Low Power)

0 – 0xFF [x 100 msec]

0 - 0xFFFF (x 1 sec)

0 – 0xFFFF

Networking & Security

Serial Interfacing

Diagnostics

0 – 0xFFFF [0 = disabled]

0 x 0xFFFF [read-only]

-

Networking & Security

Diagnostics

(Special)

# Bytes

Returned

-

2

2

2

2

-

2

1

1

-

2

2

1

2

2

1

1

2

1

2

-

-

2

-

1

2

2

1

2

2

2

1

1

2

2

1

1

2

1

2

-

1

2

1

1

1

1

-

1

2

2

1

2

1

2

2

2

2

Factory

-

0x0A (10d)

0x01

0

0xFFFF

0xFFFF

0

0

0x40 (64d)

0

0x01

-

0

0

0

0

-

0

-

0

-

-

0

0x64 (100d)

0 (disabled)

0x03

0

0xFFFF

-

- -

NOTE: AT Commands issued without a  parameter value will return the currently 

Default

-

-

0

0

0x03

0

0xC8 (200d)

-

0

-

0 varies

0

0

0xFFFF

-

0x0A (10d) factory-set

RF data rate

0

0

0x0A (10d)

0

-

0

-

0x28 (4d sec)

0x2B (“+”)

0

0x64 (1d sec) stored parameter. 

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  22 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

4.3. Command Descriptions

Commands in this section are listed alphabetically. Command categories are designated between the “< >” symbols that follow each command title. XStream Modems expect numerical values in hexadecimal and those values are designated by a “0x” prefix.

AM (Auto-set MY) Command

<Networking & Security> AM Command is used to automatically set the MY (Source Address) parameter from the factory-set modem serial

AT Command: ATAM

Binary Command: 0x3A (58 decimal)

Minimum firmware version required: 4.40 number. The address is formed with bits 29, 28 and 13-0 of the serial number (in that order).

AT (Guard Time After) Command

<Command Mode Options> AT Command is used to set the time-of-silence that follows the command sequence character (CC Command).

By default, AT Command Mode will activate after one second of silence.

Refer to the AT Command Mode section to view the default AT Command Mode Sequence.

AT Command: ATAT

Binary Command: 0x05 (5 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0x02 – 0xFFFF

[x milliseconds]

Number of bytes returned: 2

Default Parameter Value: 0x0A (10 decimal)

Related Commands: BT (Guard Time Before), CC

(Command Sequence Character)

BD (Interface Data Rate) Command

<Serial Interfacing> BD Command allows the user to adjust the UART interface data rate and thus modify the rate at which serial data is sent to the RF modem. The new baud rate does not take effect until the CN command is issued. The

RF data rate is unaffected by the BD parameter.

Most applications will require one of the seven standard baud rates; however, non-standard baud rates are also supported.

Note: If the serial data rate is set to exceed the fixed RF data rate of the XStream modem, flow control may need to be implemented as described in the Flow Control sections.

Non-standard Interface Data Rates: When values outside the range of standard baud rates are sent, the closest rate represented by the number is stored in the BD register. For example,

AT Command: ATBD

Binary Command: 0x15 (21 decimal)

Parameter Range (Standard baud rates): 0 – 6

(Non-standard baud rates): 0x7D – 0xFFFF

Parameter

BAUD (bps)

Configuration

0 1200

1 2400

2 4800

3 9600

4 19200

5 38400

6 57600

Number of bytes returned: 2

Default Parameter Value: Set to equal modem’s factory-set RF data rate.

Minimum firmware version required: 4.2B

(Custom baud rates not previously supported) a rate of 19200 bps can be set by sending the following command line: ATBD4B00. NOTE: When using X-CTU Software, non-standard interface data rates can only be set and read using the X-

CTU ‘Terminal’ tab. Non-standard rates are not accessible through the ‘Modem Configuration’ tab.

When a non-standard interface data rate is sent, the UART will adjust to accommodate the requested rate. In most cases, clock resolution will cause the stored BD parameter to vary from the parameter that was sent (refer to the table below). Reading the BD command will return the value that was actually stored to the BD register.

Table 4‐02. Parameter Sent vs. Parameter Stored 

BD Parameter Sent (HEX) Interface Data Rate (bps) BD Parameter Stored (HEX)

0 1200 0

4 19,200 4

7 115,200 7

12C 300 12B

1C200 115,200 1B207

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  23 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

BK (Serial Break Passing) Command

<Serial Interfacing> Pass a serial break condition on the DI pin to the DO pin of another modem.

AT Command: ATBK

Binary Command: 0x2E (46 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 1

Parameter Configuration

0 disable

1 enable

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: BO (Serial Break Timeout)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

BO (Serial Break Timeout) Command

<Serial Interfacing> DO pin will return to default after no serial break status information is received during the timeout period.

Use with BK parameter = 1.

AT Command: ATBO

Binary Command: 0x30 (48 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [x 1 second]

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: BK (Serial Break Passing)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

BT (Guard Time Before) Command

<Command Mode Options> BT Command is used to set the DI pin silence time that must precede the command sequence character (CC Command) of the AT Command Mode Sequence.

Refer to the AT Command Mode section to view the default AT Command Mode Sequence.

AT Command: ATBT

Binary Command: 0x04 (4 decimal)

Parameter Range: 2 – 0xFFFF

[x

Default Parameter Value: 0x0A (10 decimal)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: AT (Guard Time After),

CC (Command Sequence Character)

CB (Connection Duration Timeout) Command

<Networking & Security> Set/Read the maximum amount of time an exclusive connection between a base and remote modem in a point-to-multipoint network is sustained. The remote modem will disconnect when this timeout expires.

AT Command: ATCB

Binary Command: 0x33 (51 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0x01 – 0xFFFF

[x

Default Parameter Value: 0x28 (4d seconds)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: CE (Connection Inactivity

Timeout), DC (Disconnect), MD (RF Mode)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

CC (Command Sequence Character) Command

<Command Mode Options> The CC Command is used to set the ASCII character used between

Guard Times of the AT Command Mode Sequence

(BT + CC + AT). The AT Command Mode

Sequence activates AT Command Mode.

Refer to the AT Command Mode section to view the default AT Command Mode Sequence.

AT Command: ATCC

Binary Command: 0x13 (19 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0x20 – 0x7F

Default Parameter Value: 0x2B (ASCII “+” sign)

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: AT (Guard Time After), BT

(Guard Time Before)

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  24 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

CD (DO3 Configuration) Command

<Command Mode Options> CD Command is used to redefine the behavior of the DO3/RX LED line.

CE (Connection Inactivity Timeout) Command

<Networking & Security> Set/Read the duration of inactivity that will cause a break in a connection between modems. The base modem will disconnect when no payload has been transferred for the time specified by the CE parameter.

AT Command: ATCD

Binary Command: 0x28 (40 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 2

Parameter Configuration

3 (reserved)

4

Assert only when packet addressed to module sent

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.2B

AT Command: ATCE

Binary Command: 0x34 (52 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

[x

Default Parameter Value: 0x64 (1d second)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: CB ( Connection Duration

Timeout), DC (Disconnect), MD (RF Mode)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

CF (Connection Failure Count) Command

<Diagnostics> Set/Read the number of times the base modem expired retries attempting to send a

Connection Grant Packet.

Set the parameter value to zero to clear the register.

AT Command: ATCF

Binary Command: 0x35 (53 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

CL (Last Connection Address) Command

<Diagnostics/Networking & Security> Read the address of the remote modem that last connected to the base modem. A remote modem will return its DT (Destination Address) parameter.

AT Command: ATCL

Binary Command: 0x39 (57 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [read-only]

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

CM (Connection Message) Command

<Networking & Security> Select whether base sends connect messages to the host when a connection is established. When enabled, a

“CONNECTXXXX” string is sent to the host of the base modem. “XXXX” is the MY (Source Address) of the connected remote modem.

AT Command: ATCM

Binary Command: 0x38 (56 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 1

Parameter

0

1

Configuration enable disable

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  25 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

CN (Exit AT Command Mode) Command

<Command Mode Options> CN Command is used to explicitly exit AT Command Mode.

AT Command: ATCN

Binary Command: 0x09 (9 decimal)

CO (DO3 Timeout) Command

<Serial Interfacing> DO3 (Data Output 3) output will return to default after no DI3 (Data Input 3) status information is received during the timeout period.

Use with CD = 1 or 2, DR = 1.

AT Command: ATCO

Binary Command: 0x2F (47 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [x 1 second]

Default Parameter Value: 3

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: CD (DO3 Configuration),

DR (DI3 Configuration)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

CS (DO2 Configuration) Command

<Serial Interfacing> CS Command is used to select the behavior of the DO2 pin signal. This output can provide RS-232 flow control, control the TX enable signal (for RS-485 or RS-422 operations), or set the default level for the I/O line passing function.

By default, DO2 provides RS-232

Send) flow control.

(Clear-to-

AT Command: ATCS

Binary Command: 0x1F (31 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 4

Parameter

1

Configuration

0 RS-232

RS-485 TX enable low

2 high

3 RS-485 TX enable high

4 low

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: RT (DI2 Configuration),

TO (DO2 Timeout)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.27D

CT (Command Mode Timeout) Command

<Command Mode Options> CT Command sets the amount of time before AT Command Mode terminates automatically. After a CT time of inactivity, the modem exits AT Command Mode and returns to Idle Mode. AT Command Mode can also be exited manually using CN (Exit AT

Command Mode) Command.

AT Command: ATCT

Binary Command: 0x06 (6 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0x02 – 0xFFFF

[x

Default Parameter Value: 0xC8 (200 decimal,

20 seconds)

Number of bytes returned: 2

DC (Disconnect) Command

<Networking & Security> DC Command is used

(when in Multi-Streaming Mode (MD = 1 or 2)) to explicitly force the disconnection of an active exclusive connection. If MD = 1, the base modem will force the disconnection of an exclusive connection. If MD = 2, the remote modem will send a “Disconnect Request Packet” to the base modem.

AT Command: ATDC

Binary Command: 0x37 (55 decimal)

Related Commands: CB (Connection Duration

Timeout), CE (Connection Inactivity Timeout),

MD (RF Mode)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  26 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

DR (DI3 Configuration) Command

<Serial Interfacing> The DR Command is used to configure the DI3 (Data Input 3 / SLEEP) line for

I/O line passing (use with CD = 1 or 2 and CO) or controlling connection status (use with MD = 1 or 2).

AT Command: ATDR

Binary Command: 0x2D (45 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 4

Parameter Configuration

0

1

Disabled

DI3 I/O passing enabled

2 Connect on low

4 Connect and Disconnect

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: CD (DO3 Configuration),

CO (DO3 Timeout), MD (RF Mode)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

DT (Destination Address) Command

<Networking> DT Command is used to set the networking address of an XStream Modem.

XStream Modems uses three network layers –

Vendor Identification Number (ATID), Channels

AT Command: ATDT

Binary Command: 0x00

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

(ATHP), and Destination Addresses (ATDT). DT

Command assigns an address to a modem that

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2 enables it to communicate only with other modems having the same addresses. All modems

Related Commands: HP (Hopping Channel), ID

(Modem VID), MK (Address Mask) that share the same Destination Address can communicate freely with each other. Modems in the same network with a different Destination

Address (than that of the transmitter) will listen to all transmissions to stay synchronized, but will not send any of the data out their serial ports.

E0 (Echo Off) Command

<Command Mode Options> E0 Command turns off character echo in AT Command Mode. By default, echo is off.

E1 (Echo On) Command

<Command Mode Options> E1 Command turns on the echo in AT Command Mode. Each typed character will be echoed back to the terminal when ATE1 is active. E0 is the default.

AT Command: ATE0

Binary Command: 0x0A (10 decimal)

AT Command: ATE1

Binary Command: 0x0B (11 decimal)

ER (Receive Error Count) Command

<Diagnostics> Set/Read the receive-error. The error-count records the number of packets partially received then aborted on a reception error. This value returns to 0 after a reset and is

AT Command: ATER

Binary Command: 0x0F (15 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF not non-volatile (Value does not persist in the modem’s memory after a power-up sequence).

Once the “Receive Error Count” reaches its maximum value (up to 0xFFFF), it remains at its

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: GD (Receive Good Count) maximum count value until the maximum count value is explicitly changed or the modem is reset.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  27 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

FH (Force Wake-up Initializer) Command

<Sleep (Low Power)> FH Command is used to force a Wake-up Initializer to be sent on the next transmit. WR (Write) Command does not need to be issued with FH Command.

AT Command: ATFH

Binary Command: 0x0D (13 decimal)

Use only with cyclic sleep modes active on remote modems.

FL (Software Flow Control) Command

<Serial Interfacing> FL Command is used to configure software flow control. Hardware flow control is implemented with the XStream Modem as the DO2 pin ( ), which regulates when serial data can be transferred to the modem. FL

Command can be used to allow software flow control to also be enabled. XON character used is

0x11 (17 decimal). XOFF character used is 0x13

(19 decimal).

AT Command: ATFL

Binary Command: 0x07 (7 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 1

Parameter

0

1

Configuration

Disable software flow control

Enable software flow control

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

FT (Flow Control Threshold) Command

<Serial Interfacing> Set/Read the flow control threshold. When FT bytes have accumulated in the DI buffer, is de-asserted or the XOFF software flow control character is transmitted.

AT Command: ATFT

Binary Command: 0x24 (36 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – (Receiving modem DO buffer size minus 0x11 bytes)

Default Parameter Value: Receiving modem DO

Buffer size minus 0x11

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.27B

GD (Receive Good Count) Command

<Diagnostics> Set/Read the count of good received RF packets. Parameter value is reset to

0 after every reset and is not non-volatile (Value does not persist in the modem’s memory after a power-up sequence). Once the “Receive Good

Count” reaches its maximum value (up to

0xFFFF), it remains at its maximum count value until the maximum count value is manually changed or the modem is reset.

HP (Hopping Channel) Command

<Networking> HP Command is used to set the modem’s hopping channel number. A channel is one of three layers of addressing available to the

XStream modem. In order for modems to communicate with each other, the modems must have the same channel number since each network uses a different hopping sequence.

Different channels can be used to prevent modems in one network from listening to transmissions of another.

AT Command: ATGD

Binary Command: 0x10 (16 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: ER (Receive Error Count)

AT Command: ATHP

Binary Command: 0x11 (17 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 6

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: DT (Destination Address),

ID (Modem VID), MK (Address Mask)

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  28 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

HT (Time before Wake-up Initializer) Command

<Sleep (Low Power)> If any modems within range are running in a “Cyclic Sleep” setting, a wake-up initializer must be used by the transmitting modem for sleeping modems to remain awake [refer to the LH (“Wake-up

Initializer Timer”) Command]. When a receiving modem in Cyclic Sleep wakes, it must detect the wake-up initializer in order to remain awake and

AT Command: ATHT

Binary Command: 0x03 (3 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

[x

Default Parameter Value: 0xFFFF (means that long wake-up initializer will not be sent)

Number of bytes returned: 2 receive data. The value of HT Parameter tells the transmitter, “After a period of inactivity (no transmitting or receiving) lasting HT amount of time, send a long wake-up initializer”. HT

Related Commands: LH (Wake-up Initializer

Timer), SM (Sleep Mode), ST (Time before

Sleep)

Parameter should be set to match the inactivity timeout [specified by ST (Time before Sleep)

Command] used by the receiver(s).

From the receiving modem perspective, after HT time elapses and the inactivity timeout [ST

Command] is met, the receiver goes into cyclic sleep. In cyclic sleep, the receiver wakes once per sleep interval to check for a wake-up initializer. When a wake-up initializer is detected, the modem will stay awake to receive data. The wake-up initializer must be longer than the cyclic sleep interval to ensure that sleeping modems detect incoming data. When HT time elapses, the transmitter then knows that it needs to send a long Wake-up Initializer for all receivers to be able to remain awake and receive the next transmission. Matching HT to the time specified by ST on the receiving modem guarantees that all receivers will detect the next transmission.

ID (Modem VID) Command

<Networking> Read the modem’s VID. VID is a

MaxStream-specific acronym that stands for

“Vendor Identification Number”. This number is factory-set and allows modems with matching

VIDs to communicate. Modems with nonmatching VIDs will not receive unintended data transmission.

AT Command: ATID

Binary Command: 0x27 (39 decimal)

Parameter Range (user-settable):

0x10 - 0x7FFFF

(Factory-set and read-only) :

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.2B

(Previous versions did not support usersettable VIDs)

IU (DI2, DI3 Update Timer) Command

<Serial Interfacing> Set/Read the interval at which the status of DI2, DI3 and Break is transmitted. Additionally, status is transmitted whenever there is a transition. A setting of “0” disables periodic update. DI2 or DI3 passing must be enabled for the update to take place.

AT Command: ATIU

Binary Command: 0x3B (59 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 - 0xFFFF [x 100 ms]

Default Parameter Value: 0x0A (10 decimal)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: BK (Serial Break Passing),

BO (Serial Break Timeout), CO (DO3 Timeout),

DR (Disconnect), RT (DI2 Configuration), TO

(DO2 Timeout)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  29 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

LH (Wake-up Initializer Timer) Command

<Sleep (Low Power)> LH Command adjusts the duration of time for which the RF initializer is

AT Command: ATLH

Binary Command: 0x0C (12 decimal) sent. When receiving modems are put into Cyclic

Sleep Mode, they power-down after a period of

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFF

[x inactivity [specified by ST (Time before Sleep)

Command] and will periodically awaken and listen

Default Parameter Value: 1 for transmitted data. In order for the receiving modems to remain awake, they must detect

~35ms of the wake-up initializer.

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: HT (Time before Wake-up

Initializer), SM (Sleep Mode), ST (Time before

Sleep)

LH Command must be used whenever a receiver is operating in Cyclic Sleep Mode. This lengthens the Wake-up Initializer to a specific amount of time (in tenths of a second). The Wake-up Initializer Time must be longer than the cyclic sleep time that is determined by SM (Sleep Mode) Command. If the wake-up initializer time were less than the Cyclic Sleep interval, the connection would be at risk of missing the wake-up initializer transmission.

Refer to Figures 4-03 & 4-04 of the SM Command description to view diagrams of correct and incorrect configurations. The images help visualize the importance that the value of LH be greater than the value of SM.

MD (RF Mode) Command

<Networking & Security> The MD command is used to select/read the RF Mode (Peer-to-peer,

Multi-Stream or Repeater Modes) of the modem.

Multi-Streaming Mode enables exclusive connections in point-to-multipoint networks.

Refer to the Multi-Streaming Mode section [p46]

for more information regarding how these parameter values affect other parameter values.

Repeater Mode enables longer range via an intermediary modem. When MD=3, the modem will act as a “store and forward” repeater. Any packets not addressed to this node will be repeated. A Repeater End Node (MD=4) handles repeated messages, but will not forward the data over-the-air. Refer to the Repeater Mode section

[p41] for more information.

AT Command: ATMD

Binary Command: 0x32 (50 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 4

Parameter Configuration

1 Multi-Stream

3 Repeater

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: CB (Connection Duration

Timeout), CE (Connection Inactivity Timeout),

CM (Connection Message), DC (Disconnect)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

MK (Address Mask) Command

<Networking> MK Command is used to set/read the Address Mask.

AT Command: ATMK

Binary Command: 0x12 (18 decimal)

All data packets contain the Destination Address of the transmitting modem. When an RF data packet is received, the transmitter’s Destination

Address is logically “ANDed” (bitwise) with the

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

Default Parameter Value: 0xFFFF

(Destination address (DT parameter) of the transmitting modem must exactly match the destination address of the receiving modem.) Address Mask of the receiver. The resulting value must match the Destination Address or the

Address Mask of the receiver for the packet to be received and sent out the modem’s DO serial port. If the “ANDed” value does not match either the Destination Address or the Address Mask of

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: DT (Destination Address),

HP (Hopping Channel), ID (Modem VID), MY

(Source Address) the receiver, the packet is discarded. (All “0” values are treated as “irrelevant” values and are ignored.)

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  30 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

MY (Source Address) Command

<Networking & Security> Set/Read the source address of the modem.

Refer to the Addressing section [p39] of the RF

Communication Modes chapter for more information.

NB (Parity) Command

<Serial Interfacing> Select/Read parity settings for UART communications.

AT Command: ATMY

Binary Command: 0x2A (42 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

Default Parameter Value: 0xFFFF (Disabled – the DT (Destination Address) parameter serves as both source and destination address.)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: DT (Destination Address),

HP (Hopping Channel), ID (Modem VID), MK

(Address Mask), AM (Auto-set MY)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

AT Command: ATNB

Binary Command: 0x23 (35 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 4

Parameter

0

Configuration

8-bit (no parity or

7-bit (any parity)

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.27B

PC (Power-up Mode) Command

<Command Mode Options> The PC Command allows the modem to power-up directly into AT

Command Mode from reset or power-on. If PC

Command is enabled with SM Parameter set to 1, the DI3 Pin (SLEEP) can be used to enter the modem into AT Command Mode. When the DI3 pin is de-asserted (low), the modem will Wake-up into AT Command Mode. This behavior allows modem DTR emulation.

AT Command: ATPC

Binary Command: 0x1E (30 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 1

Parameter Configuration

0

1

Power-up to Idle Mode

Power-up to

AT Command Mode

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22

PK (RF Packet Size) Command

<Serial Interfacing> Set/Read the maximum size of the RF packets sent out a transmitting modem. The maximum packet size can be used along with the RB and RO parameters to implicitly set the channel dwell time.

Changes to this parameter may have a secondary effect on the RB (Packet Control

Characters) parameter. RB must always be less than or equal to PK. If PK is changed to a value

AT Command: ATPK

Binary Command: 0x29 (41 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0x100 [Bytes]

Default Parameter Value: 0x40 (64 decimal)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: RB (Packetization

Threshold), RO (Packetization Timeout)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30 less than the current value of RB, RB is automatically lowered to be equal to PK.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  31 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

PW (Pin Wake-up) Command

<Sleep (Low Power)> Under normal operation, a modem in Cyclic Sleep Mode cycles from an active state to a low-power state at regular intervals until data is ready to be received. If the

PW Parameter is set to 1, the SLEEP/DI3 Pin can be used to awaken the modem from Cyclic Sleep.

If the SLEEP Pin is de-asserted (low), the modem will be fully operational and will not go into Cyclic

Sleep. Once SLEEP is asserted, the modem will remain active for the period of time specified by

ST (Time before Sleep) Command, and will return to Cyclic Sleep Mode (if no data is ready to be transmitted). PW Command is only valid if Cyclic

Sleep has been enabled.

AT Command: ATPW

Binary Command: 0x1D (29 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 1

Parameter Configuration

0 Disabled

1 Enabled

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands: SM (Sleep Mode), ST (Time before Sleep)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22

RB (Packetization Threshold) Command

<Serial Interfacing> RF transmission will commence when data is in the DI Buffer and either of the following criteria are met:

• RO times out on the UART receive lines

(ignored if RO = 0)

• RB characters have been received by the

UART (ignored if RB = 0)

If PK is lowered below the value of RB; RB is automatically lowered to match PK.

AT Command: ATRB

Binary Command: 0x20 (32 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0x100 [bytes]

(Maximum value equals the current value of PK

Parameter (up to 0x100 HEX (800 decimal))

Default Parameter Value: 1

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: PK (RF Packet Size), RO

(Packetization Timeout)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

Note: RB and RO criteria only apply to the first packet of a multi-packet transmission. If data remains in the DI Buffer after the first packet, transmissions will continue in streaming manner until there is no data left in the DI Buffer (UART receive buffer).

RE (Restore Defaults) Command

<Diagnostics> RE Command restores all configurable parameters to factory default

AT Command: ATRE

Binary Command: 0x0E (14 decimal) settings. However, RE Command will not write the default values to non-volatile (persistent) memory. Unless the WR (Write) Command is issued after the RE command, the default settings will not be saved in the event of modem reset or power-down.

RN (Delay Slots) Command

<Networking> RN Command is only applicable if AT Command: ATRN retries have been enabled [RR (Retries) Binary Command: 0x19 (25 decimal)

Command], or if forced delays will be inserted Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFF [slots] into a transmission [see TT (Streaming Limit)

Command]. RN Command is used to adjust the

Default Parameter Value: 0 (no delay slots inserted) time delay that the transmitter inserts before Number of bytes returned: 1 attempting to resend a packet. If the transmitter fails to receive an acknowledgement after

Related Commands: RR (Retries), TT

(Streaming Limit) sending a packet, it will insert a random number

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22 of delay slots (ranging from 0 to (RN minus 1)) before attempting to resend the packet. Each delay slot lasts for a period of 38ms.

If two modems attempted to transmit at the same time, the random time delay after packet failure would allow one of the two modems to transmit the packet successfully, while the other would wait until the channel opens up to begin transmission.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  32 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

RO (Packetization Timeout) Command

<Serial Interfacing> RO Command is used to specify/read the time of silence (no bytes received) after which transmission begins. After a serial byte is received and if no other byte is received before the RO timeout, the transmission will start.

AT Command: ATRO

Binary Command: 0x21 (33 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [x 200 µs]

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.2AA

RP (RSSI PWM Timer) Command

<Diagnostics> RP Command is used to enable a

PWM (“Pulse Width Modulation”) output on the

Config pin which is calibrated to show the level the received RF signal is above the sensitivity level of the modem. The PWM pulses vary from zero to 95 percent. Zero percent means the received RF signal is at or below the published sensitivity level of the modem. The following table shows levels above sensitivity and PWM values.

AT Command: ATRP

Binary Command: 0x22 (34 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 - 0x7F

100

Default Parameter Value: 0 (disabled)

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.2AA

The total period of the PWM output is 8.32 ms. There are 40 steps in the PWM output and therefore the minimum step size is 0.208 ms.

Table 4‐03. PWM Chart  dBm above Sensitivity PWM percentage (high period / total period)

10 47.5

20 62.5

30 77.5

A non-zero value defines the time that the PWM output will be active with the RSSI value of the last received RF packet. After the set time when no RF packets are received, the PWM output will be set low (0 percent PWM) until another RF packet is received. The PWM output will also be set low at power-up. A parameter value of 0xFF permanently enables the PWM output and it will always reflect the value of the last received RF packet.

PWM output shares the Config input pin. When the modem is powered, the Config pin will be an input. During the power-up sequence, the Config pin will be read to determine whether the modem is going into AT Command Mode. After this, if RP parameter is a non-zero value, the

Config pin will be configured as an output and set low until the first RF packet is received. With a non-zero RP parameter, the Config pin will be an input for RP ms after power up.

RR (Retries) Command

Networking> RR Command specifies the number of retries that can be sent for a given RF packet.

Once RR Command is enabled (set to a non-zero value), RF packet acknowledgements and retries are enabled. After transmitting a packet, the transmitter will wait to receive an acknowledgement from a receiver. If the acknowledgement is not received in the period of

AT Command: ATRR

Binary Command: 0x18 (24 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFF

Default Parameter Value: 0 (disabled)

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22 time specified by the RN (Delay Slots) Command, the transmitter will transmit the original packet again. The packet will be transmitted repeatedly until an acknowledgement is received or until the packet has been sent RR times.

Note: For retries to work correctly, all modems in the system must have retries enabled.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  33 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

RS (RSSI) Command

<Diagnostics> RS Command returns the signal level of the last packet received. This reading is useful for determining range characteristics of the

XStream Modems under various conditions of

AT Command: ATRS

Binary Command: 0x1C (28 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0x06 – 0x36 [Read-only] noise and distance.

Number of bytes returned: 1

Once the command is issued, the modem will

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22 return a value between 0x6 and 0x36 where 0x36 represents a very strong signal level and 0x4 indicates a low signal level.

RT (DI2 Configuration) Command

<Serial Interfacing> RT command is used to dictate the behavior of the DI2/ /CMD line. RT

Command must be issued to enable control or binary programming.

flow

AT Command: ATRT

Binary Command: 0x16 (22 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 2

Parameter Configuration

0 disabled

1 Enable Binary Programming

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

RZ (DI Buffer Size) Command

<Diagnostics> The RZ command is used to read the size of the DI buffer (UART RX (Receive)).

Note: The DO buffer size can be determined by multiplying the DI buffer size by 1.5.

AT Command: ATRZ

Binary Command: 0x2C (44 decimal)

Parameter Range: Read-only

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

SB (Stop Bits) Command

<Serial Interfacing> SB Command is used to set/read the number of stop bits in the data packets.

SH (Serial Number High) Command

<Diagnostics> Set/Read the serial number high word of the modem.

AT Command: ATSB

Binary Command: 0x36 (54 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 1

Parameter

0

1

Configuration

1 stop bits

2 stop bits

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.2B

AT Command: ATSH

Binary Command: 0x25 (37 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [Read-only]

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: SL (Serial Number Low)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.27C

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  34 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

SL (Serial Number Low) Command

<Diagnostics> Set/Read the serial number low word of the modem.

SM (Sleep Mode) Command

<Sleep Mode (Low Power)> SM Command is used to adjust Sleep Mode settings. By default,

Sleep Mode is disabled and the modem remains continually active. SM Command allows the modem to run in a lower-power state and be configured in one of eight settings.

Cyclic Sleep settings wake the modem after the amount of time designated by SM Command. If the modem detects a wake-up initializer during the time it is awake, it will synchronize with the transmitter and start receiving data after the wake-up initializer runs its duration. Otherwise, it returns to Sleep Mode and continue to cycle in and out of inactivity until the Wake-up Initializer is detected. If a Cyclic Sleep setting is chosen, the ST, LH and HT parameters must also be set as described in the “Sleep Mode” section of this manual.

Refer to the Sleep Mode sections [p15] for more

information.

AT Command: ATSH

Binary Command: 0x26 (38 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [Read-only]

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: SH (Serial Number High)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.27C

AT Command: ATSM

Binary Command: 0x01

Parameter Range: 0 – 8

Parameter Configuration

0 Disabled

2

3

Serial Port Sleep

Cyclic 0.5 second sleep

(Modem wakes every

0.5 seconds)

Cyclic 1.0 second sleep 4

5

6

7

Cyclic 2.0 second sleep

Cyclic 4.0 second sleep

Cyclic 8.0 second sleep

8 Cyclic 16.0 second sleep

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 1

Related Commands:

For Pin Sleep – PC (Power-up Mode), PW (Pin

Wake-up)

For Serial Port Sleep – ST (Time before Sleep)

For Cyclic Sleep – ST (Time before Sleep), LH

(Wake-up Initializer Timer), HT (Time Before

Wake-up Initializer), PW (Pin Wake-up)

ST (Time before Sleep) Command

<Sleep Mode (Low Power)> ST Command sets the period of time (in tenths of seconds) in which the modem remains inactive before entering into

Sleep Mode. For example, if the ST Parameter is set to 0x64 (100 decimal), the modem will enter into Sleep mode after 10 seconds of inactivity (no transmitting or receiving). This command can only be used if Cyclic Sleep or Serial Port Sleep

Mode settings have been selected using SM

(Sleep Mode) Command.

AT Command: ATST

Binary Command: 0x02

Parameter Range: 0x10 – 0xFFFF

[x

Default Parameter Value: 0x64 (100 decimal)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: SM (Sleep Mode), LH

(Wake-up Initializer Timer), HT (Time before

Wake-up Initializer)

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  35 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

SY (Time before Initialization) Command

<Networking> SY Command keeps a communication channel open as long as modem

AT Command: ATSY

Binary Command: 0x17 (23 decimal) transmits or receives before the active connection expires. It can be used to reduce latency in a

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFF

[x query/response sequence and should be set 100 ms longer than the delay between transmissions.

This command allows multiple XStream Modems to share a hopping channel for a given amount of

Default Parameter Value: 0 (Disabled - channel initialization information is sent with each RF packet.)

Number of bytes returned: 1 time after receiving data. By default, all packets include an RF initializer that contains channel information used to synchronize any listening receivers to the transmitter’s hopping pattern. Once a new modem comes within range or is powered on within range, it is able to instantly synchronize to the transmitter and start receiving data. If no new modems are introduced into the system, the synchronization information becomes redundant once modems have become synchronized.

SY Command allows the modems to remove this information from the RF Initializer after the initial synchronization. For example, changing the SY Parameter to 0x14 (20 decimal) allows all modems to remain in sync for 2 seconds after the last data packet was received. Synchronization information is not re-sent unless transmission stops for more than 2 seconds. This command allows significant savings in packet transmission time.

Warning: Not recommended for use in an interference-prone environment. Interference can break up the session and the communications channel will not be available again until SY time expires.

With SY set to zero, the channel session is opened and closed with each transmission - resulting in a more robust link with more latency.

TO (DO2 Timeout) Command

<Serial Interfacing>DO2 output will return to default after no DI2 status information is received during the timeout period.

Use with CS = 2 or 4.

AT Command: ATTO

Binary Command: 0x31 (49 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [x 1 second]

Default Parameter Value: 3

Number of bytes returned: 2

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.30

TR (Transmit Error Count) Command

<Diagnostics> TR Command records the number of retransmit failures. This number is incremented each time a packet is not acknowledged within the number of retransmits specified by the RR (Retries) Command. It therefore counts the number of packets that were not successfully received and have been dropped.

The TR Parameter is not non-volatile and will therefore be reset to zero each time the modem is reset.

AT Command: ATTR

Binary Command: 0x1B (27 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF

Default Parameter Value: 0

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: RR (Retries)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  36 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

TT (Streaming Limit) Command

<Networking> TT Command defines a limit on the number of bytes that can be sent out before a random delay is issued. TT Command is used to simulate full-duplex behavior.

If a modem is sending a continuous stream of RF data, a delay is inserted which stops its transmission and allows other modems time to transmit (once it sends number of bytes specified by TT Command). Inserted random delay lasts between 1 & ‘RN + 1’ delay slots, where each delay slot lasts 38ms.

AT Command: ATTT

Binary Command: 0x1A (26 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF (0 = disabled)

Default Parameter Value: 0xFFFF (65535 decimal)

Number of bytes returned: 2

Related Commands: RN (Delay Slots)

Minimum Firmware Version Required: 4.22

VR (Firmware Version) Command

<Diagnostics> Read the Firmware Version of the

XStream Modem.

AT Command: ATVR

Binary Command: 0x14 (20 decimal)

Parameter Range: 0 – 0xFFFF [Read-only]

Number of bytes returned: 2

WR (Write) Command

<(Special)> WR Command writes configurable parameters to the modem’s non-volatile memory

AT Command: ATWR

Binary Command: 0x08

(Parameter values remain in the modem’s memory until overwritten by future use of WR Command).

If changes are made without writing them to non-volatile memory, the modem reverts back to previously saved parameters the next time the modem is powered-on.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  37 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

5. RF Communication Modes 

Network configurations covered in this chapter are described in terms of the following:

• Network Topology (Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multipoint or Peer-to-Peer)

• RF Communication Type (Basic or Acknowledged)

• RF Mode (Streaming, Repeater, Acknowledged or Multi-Streaming)

The following table provides a summary of the network configurations supported.

Table 5‐01. Summary of network configurations supported by the XStream RF Modem 

Point-to-Point

An RF data link between two modems. Definition

Sample Network Profile *

(Broadcast Communications)

Sample Network Profile *

(Acknowledged Communications)

Basic Communication RF Modes

Acknowledged Communication RF Mode

Use default values for all modems.

All Modems: ATAM [auto-set MY (Source Address) parameter] **

ATDT FFFF [set Destination Address to 0xFFFF]

Streaming Mode [p40], Repeater Mode [p41]

Acknowledged Mode [p44]

Point-to-Multipoint

Definition

Sample Network Profile *

(Basic Communications)

RF data links between one base and multiple remotes.

Base: ATMY 0 [set Source Address to 0x00]

ATDT FFFF [set Destination Address to 0xFFFF]

Remotes: ATAM [auto-set MY (Source Address) parameter] **

ATDT 0 [set Destination Address to 0x00]

Sample Network Profile *

(Acknowledged Communications)

Base: ATMY 0 [set Source Address to 0x00]

ATDT FFFF [set Destination Address to 0xFFFF]

ATRR 3 [set number of Retries to 3]

Remotes: ATAM [auto-set MY (Source Address) parameter] **

ATDT 0 [set Destination Address to 0x00]

ATRR 3 [set number of Retries to 3]

Basic Communication RF Modes

Streaming Mode [p40], Repeater Mode [p41]

Acknowledged Communication RF Modes

Acknowledged Mode [p44], Multi-Streaming Mode [p46]

Peer-to-Peer

Definition

Modems remain synchronized without use of a master/server. Each modem shares the roles of master and slave. MaxStream’s peer-topeer architecture features fast synch times (35ms to synchronize modems) and fast cold start times (50ms before transmission).

Sample Network Profile *

(Basic Communications)

Use default values for all modems.

Sample Network Profile *

(Acknowledged Communications)

Basic Communication RF Mode

Acknowledged Communication RF Mode

All Modems: ATAM [auto-set MY (Source Address) parameter] **

ATDT FFFF [set Destination Address to 0xFFFF]

ATRR 3 [set number of Retries to 3]

Streaming Mode [p40]

Acknowledged Mode [p44]

* Assume default values for parameters not listed. Profiles do not reflect addressing implementations. 

** AM (Auto‐set MY) Command must be issued through a terminal program such as the one incorporated in  the X‐CTU ‘Terminal’ tab. 

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  38 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

5.1. Addressing

Each RF packet contains addressing information that is used to filter incoming RF data. Receiving modems inspect the Hopping Channel (HP parameter), Vendor Identification Number (ID parameter) and Destination Address (DT parameter) contained in each RF packet. Data that does not pass through all three network security layers is discarded.

Figure 5‐01. Filtration layers contained in the RF packet header 

5.1.1. Address Recognition

Transmissions can be addressed to a specific modem or group of modems using the DT

(Destination Address) and MK (Address Mask) parameters. The transmitting modem dictates whether the packet is intended for a specific modem (local address) or multiple modems (global address) by comparing the packet’s DT parameter to its own MK parameter.

Figure 5‐02. Local Packets vs. Global Packets (Transmitting Modem) 

TX_DT = Transmitter Destination Address 

TX_MK = Transmitter Address Mask 

Note: When TX_DT = 0xFFFF (default), RF packets are global and are  received by all modems within range. (Receivers do not send ACKs.) 

A receiving modem will only accept a packet if a packet is addressed to it (either as a global or local packet). The RX modem makes this determination by inspecting the destination address of the RF packet and comparing it to its own address and mask. The Destination Address of the TX modem is logically “ANDed” with the Address Mask of the RX modem.

Figure 5‐03. Address Recognition (Receiving Modem) 

TX_DT = Transmitter Destination Address 

RX_DT = Receiver Destination Address 

RX_MY = Receiver Source Address 

NOTE: For more information regarding addressing and masks, refer to Application Note ‘XST-

AN004b’. (Located on the MaxStream CD and on the web: www.maxstream.net)

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  39 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

5.2. Basic Communications

Basic Communications are accomplished through two sub-types:

• Broadcast - By default, XStream Modems communicate through Broadcast communications and within a peer-to-peer network topology. When any modem transmits, all other modems within range will receive the data and pass it directly to their host device.

• Addressed - If addressing parameters match, received RF data is forwarded to the DO (Data

Out) buffer; otherwise, the RF data is discarded.

When using Basic Communications, any functions such as acknowledgements are handled at the application layer by the OEM/integrator. The Broadcast Modes provide transparent communications, meaning that the RF link simply replaces a wired link.

5.2.1. Streaming Mode (Default)

Lowest latency and jitter

Reduced immunity to interference

Transmissions never acknowledged (ACK) by receiving modem(s)

Required Parameter Values (TX Modem): RR (Retries) = 0

Related Commands: Networking (DT, MK, MY), Serial Interfacing (PK, RB, RO, TT)

Recommended Use: Mode is most appropriate for data systems more sensitive to latency and/or jitter than to occasional packet loss. For example: streaming audio or video.

Streaming Mode Data Flow

Figure 5‐04. Streaming Mode State Diagram (TX Modem)  

Events and processes in this mode are common to all of the other RF

Communication Modes.

NOTE: When streaming data, RB and RO parameters are only observed on the first packet.

After transmission begins, the TX event will continue uninterrupted until the DI buffer is empty or the streaming limit (TT Command) is reached.

As with the first packet, the payload of each subsequent packet includes up to the maximum packet size (PK Command).

The streaming limit (TT Command) is specified by the transmitting modem as the maximum number of bytes the transmitting modem can send in one transmission event. After the TT parameter threshold is reached, the transmitting modem will force a random delay of 1 to RN delay slots (exactly 1 delay slot if RN = 0).

Subsequent packets are sent without an RF initializer since receiving modems stay synchronized with the transmitting modem for the duration of the transmission event (from preceding packet information).

However, due to interference, some receiving modems may lose data

(and synchronization to the transmitting modem), particularly during long transmission events.

Once the transmitting modem has sent all pending data or has reached the TT limit, the transmission event ends. The transmitting modem will not transmit again for exactly RN delay slots if the local (i.e. transmitting modem’s) RN parameter is set to a non-zero value. The receiving modem(s) will not transmit for a random number of delay slots between 0 and (RN-1) if the local (i.e. receiving modem’s) RN parameter is set to a non-zero value. These delays are intended to lessen congestion following long bursts of packets from a single transmitting modem, during which several receiving modems may have become ready to transmit.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  40 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

5.2.2. Repeater Mode

Characteristics: Self-organizing - No route configuration is necessary

Self-healing / Fault-tolerant

Low power consumption and Minimized interference

Network throughput is determined by number of hops, not by number of repeaters. Multiple repeaters within range of source node count as one hop.

Supports “transparent” multi-drop mode or addressed data filtering mode.

Duplicate RF packets are automatically filtered out.

All packets propagate to every node in the network (filtering rules apply).

Constraints:

Broadcast communications - each packet comes out every node exactly once.

Addressed communications - all radios see every packet. Only the modem with a matching address will forward it to the DO buffer (UART IN).

Data entering the network on any modem is transmitted and forwarded through every repeater modem until it reaches the ends of the network.

Each repeater will repeat a packet only once.

Requires that each modem have a unique MY (Source Address) parameter.

System must introduce just one packet at a time to the network for transmission (256 bytes max).

Each hop (H) decreases network throughput by a factor of 1/(H+1).

Additional repeaters add network redundancy without decreasing throughput.

Required Parameter Values (TX Modem): MD = 3 or 4, MY = unique value (can be accomplished by issuing the AM (Auto-set MY) and WR (Write) commands to all modems in the network)

Related Commands: Networking (MD, DT, MY, AM), Serial Interfacing (RN, PK, RO, RB)

Recommended Use: Use in networks where intermediary nodes are needed to relay data to modems that are beyond the transmission range of the base modem.

Theory of Operation

OEMs and integrators can extend the effective range and reliability of a data radio system by forwarding traffic through one or more repeaters.

Instead of using routing tables and path discovery to establish dynamic paths through a network, the repeater system uses a sophisticated algorithm to propagate each RF packet through the entire network.

The network supports RF packets up to 256 bytes. The repeater network can operate using broadcast or addressed communications for multi-drop networks and works well in many systems with no special configuration.

When in Repeater Mode, the network repeats each message among all available nodes exactly one time. This mechanism eliminates the need for configuring specific routes. The network is selforganizing and self-healing so that the system is able to receive transmissions in the event of a modem going down.

Figure 5‐05. Sample Repeater Network Topology 

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  41 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Repeater Network Configuration

A network may consist of End Nodes (EN), End/Repeater Nodes (ERN) and a Base Node (BN).

The base node initiates all communications.

The repeater network can be configured to operate using Basic Broadcast or Basic Addressed communications. The addressing capabilities of the modems allow integrators to send a packet as a global packet (DT = 0xFFFF) and shift out of every radio in the network (Basic Broadcast).

Alternatively, the packet can be sent with a specific DT (Destination Address) parameter so that it is only accepted by a specific remote node (Basic Addressed).

Configuration Instruction (Basic Broadcast Communications)

Assign each radio modem a unique MY (source) address. (The AM (Auto-set MY) command will configure a unique source address that is based on modem serial number.)

Enable Basic Broadcast Communications (DT = 0xFFFF) or Addressed Broadcast Communications

(ATDT specifies a specific destination)

Configure PK, RO and RB to ensure that RF packet aligns with protocol packet. (ex. PK=0x100,

RB=0x100, RO depends on baud rate).

Configure one or more repeaters in the system (ATMD = 3).

Configure remote nodes as destinations (MD = 4). This will ensure that the remote node waits for the repeater traffic to subside before it transmits a response.

The configuration instructions above reflect configuration for a Basic Broadcast Repeater system.

To configure a Basic Addressed Repeater system, use the DT (Destination Address) parameter to assign unique addresses to each modem in the network.

Algorithm details

• Packet ID (PID) is composed of transmitting modem MY address and packet serial number.

• Incoming packets with a PID already found in the PID buffer will be ignored.

• Each modem maintains a PID buffer 8 deep of previously received packets (managed as

FIFO).

Packets may be shifted out the serial port and/or repeated depending on the DT parameter contained in the RF packet.

Table 5‐02. DT (Destination Address) parameter truth table  

Address Match Send out serial port? Repeat?

Global Yes Yes

Local Yes No

None No Yes

Repeat delay based on RSSI

A transmitted packet may be received by more that one repeater at the same time. In order to reduce the probability that the repeaters will transmit at the same instant, resulting in a collision and possible data loss; an algorithm has been developed that will allow a variable back-off prior to retransmission of the packet by a repeater. The algorithm allows radios that receive the packet with a stronger RF signal (RSSI) to have the first opportunity to retransmit the packet.

The RN (Delay Slots) parameter is used to configure this delay. Set RN=0 (no delays) for small networks with few repeaters or repeaters that are not within range of each other. Set RN=1 for systems with 2 to 5 repeaters that may be within range of each other.

The actual length of the delay is computed by the formula:

Delay (ms) = L * DS

DS = (-41-RSSI)/10*RN)+RandomInt(0,RN)

Where L is the length of the transmitted packet in milliseconds, DS is the number of delay slots to wait, RSSI is the received signal strength in dBm, RN is the value of the RN register and

RandomInt(A,B) is a function that returns a random integer from A to B-0

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  42 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Response packet delay

As a packet propagates through the repeater network, if any node receives the data and generates a quick response, the response needs to be delayed so as not to collide with subsequent retransmissions of the original packet. To reduce collisions, both repeater and end node radios in a repeater network will delay transmission of data shifted in the serial port to allow any repeaters within range to complete their retransmissions.

The time for this delay is computed by the formula:

Maximum Delay (ms) = L * DS

DS = ((-41-(-100))/10)*RN)+RN+1

Where L is the length of the transmitted packet in milliseconds, DS is the number of delay slots to wait, RSSI is the received signal strength in dBm, and RN is the value of the RN register.

Use Case - Broadcast Repeater Network

Consider modems R1 through R10 each communicating to a PLC using the ModBus protocol and spaced evenly in a line. All ten nodes are configured as ‘destinations & repeaters’ within the scope of Basic Broadcast Communications (MD=3, AM, DT=0xFFFF, PK=0x100, RO=0x03,

RB=0x100, RN=1). The Base Host (BH) shifts payload that is destined for R10 to R1. R1 initializes RF communication and transmits payload to nodes R2 through R5 which are all within range of R1. Modems R2 through R5 receive the RF packet and retransmit the packet simultaneously. They also send the data out the serial ports, to the PLC's.

Table 5‐03. Commands used to configure repeater functions 

AT

Command

AM

DT

MD

MY

RN

Binary

Command

0x3A (58d)

0x00 (0d)

0x3C (60d)

0x2A (42d)

0x19 (25d)

AT Command Name

Auto-set MY

Destination Address

RF Mode

Source Address

Delay Slots

Range

-

0 – 0xFFFF

3 - 4

0 – 0xFFFF

0 – 0xFF [slots]

-

# Bytes

Returned

-

Factory

Default

-

2

1

2

1

0

0

0xFFFF

0

- -

Bandwidth Considerations

Using broadcast repeaters in a network reduces the overall network data throughput as each repeater must buffer an entire packet before retransmitting it. For example: if the destination is within range of the transmitter and the packet is 32 bytes long, the transmission will take 72ms on a 9600 baud XStream modem (much faster modems are available). If that same packet has to propagate through two repeaters, it will take 72ms to arrive at the first repeater, another 72 ms to get to the second and a final 72ms to get to the destination for a total of 216ms. Taking into account UART transfer times (~1ms/byte at 9600 baud), a server to send a 32 byte query and receive a 32 byte response is ~200ms, allowing for 5 polls per second. With the two repeaters in the path, the same query/response sequence would take about 500ms for 2 polls per second.

To summarize, this system is sending and receiving 64 bytes 5 times per second for a throughput of 320 bytes per second with no repeaters and 128 bytes per second with 2 repeaters. Generally, the network throughput will decrease by a factor of 1/(R+1), with R representing the number of repeaters between the source and destination.

Note that these numbers are absolutely worst case to illustrate how the system would perform in a typical, low bandwidth system. As a counter example the 115kbps 9XTend radio can transfer the same 32 byte packet in 12 ms for a round trip with UART transfer times of ~30ms or 33 polls per second (1066 bytes per second) with no repeaters. With two repeaters the time would be

~100ms round trip time for 10 polls per second or 320 bytes per second network throughput with two repeaters.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  43 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

5.3. Acknowledged Communications

5.3.1. Acknowledged Mode

Characteristics: Reliable delivery through positive acknowledgements for each packet

Throughput, latency and jitter vary depending on the quality of the channel and the strength of the signal.

Recommended Use: Acknowledge Mode configuration is appropriate when reliable delivery is required between modems. If messages are smaller than 256 bytes, use RB and RO commands to align RF packets with application packets.

Required Parameter Values (TX Modem): RR (Retries) >= 1

Related Commands: Networking (DT, MK, RR), Serial Interfacing (PK, RN, TT, RO, RB)

Table 5‐04. Sample Network Profile 

Modem

All

Parameter Settings (assume default values for parameters not listed)

ATRR A

ATRN 5

[set number of Retries to 0x0A]

[set number of Delay Slots to 5]

Connection Sequence

Figure 5‐06. Acknowledged Mode State Diagram Æ  

After sending a packet while in Acknowledged Mode, the transmitting modem listens for an ACK

(acknowledgement). If it receives the ACK, it will either send a subsequent packet (if more transmit data is pending), or will wait for exactly RN random delay slots before allowing another transmission (if no more data is pending for transmission).

If the transmitting modem does not receive the ACK within the allotted time, it will retransmit the packet with a new RF initializer following the

ACK slot. There is no delay between the first ACK slot and the first retransmission.

Subsequent retransmissions incur a delay of a random number of delay slots, between 0 and RN. If RN is set to 0 on the transmitting modem, there are never any back-off delays between retransmissions. Note that during back-off delays, the transmitting modem will go into Idle Mode and may receive RF data. This can h ave the effect of increasing the ba ck-off delay, as the radio cannot return to RF transmit (or retransmit) mode as long as it is receiving RF data.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  44 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

After receiving and acknowledging a packet, the receiving modem will move to the next frequency and listen for either a retransmission or new data for a specific period of time. Even if the transmitting modem has indicated that it has no more pending transmit data, it may have not received the previous ACK, and so it may retransmit the packet (potentially with no delay after the ACK slot). In this case, the receiving modem will always detect the immediate retransmission, which will hold off the communications channel and thereby reduce collisions.

Receiving modems acknowledge each retransmission they receive, but they only pass the first copy of a packet they receive out the UART.

RB and RO parameters are not applied to subsequent packets. This means that once transmission has begun, it will continue uninterrupted until the DI buffer is empty or the streaming limit (TT) has been reached. As with the first packet, the payload of each subsequent packet includes up to the maximum packet size (PK parameter). The transmitting modem checks for more pending data near the end of each packet.

The streaming limit (TT parameter) specifies the maximum number of bytes that the transmitting modem will send in one transmission event, which may consist of many packets and retries. If the TT parameter is reached, the transmitting modem will force a random delay of 1 to RN delay slots (exactly 1 delay slot if RN is zero). Each packet is counted only once toward TT, no matter how many times the packet is retransmitted.

Subsequent packets in acknowledged mode are similar to those in streaming mode, with the addition of an acknowledgement between each packet, and the possibility of retransmissions.

Subsequent packets are sent without an RF initializer, as the receiving modems are already synchronized to the transmitting modem from the preceding packet(s) and they remain synchronized for the duration of the transmission event. Each retransmission of a packet includes an RF initializer.

Once the transmitting modem has sent all pending data or has reached the TT limit, the acknowledged transmission event is completed. The transmitting modem will not transmit again for exactly RN delay slots, if the local RN parameter is set to a nonzero value. The receiving modem will not transmit for a random number of delay slots between 0 and (RN-1), if the local

RN parameter is set to a nonzero value. These delays are intended to lessen congestion following long bursts of packets from a single transmitting modem, during which several receiving modems may have themselves become ready to transmit.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  45 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

5.3.2. Multi-Streaming Mode

Characteristics: Enables exclusive connections [refer to Theory of Operation section for definition]

Supports the passing of large data streams (> 256 bytes) from multiple remote modems to a base modem (If a complete data stream from a remote modem is less than 256 bytes, data can be sent from several remotes to a base location without enabling this mode and latencies will be much less.)

Transmissions never acknowledged (ACK) by receiving modem(s)

Required Parameter Values (TX Modem): MD = 1 (Base), MD = 2 (Remote), RN > 0, RR > 0,

MY ≠ 0xFFFF

Recommended Use: Use this mode in point-to-multipoint networks where remote modems initiate communications and require exclusive (uninterrupted) connections to the base modem.

Table 5‐05. Sample Network Profile 

Modem

Base

Remotes

Parameter Settings (assume default values for parameters not listed)

ATMD 1

ATMD 2

[configure modem as Multi-Stream Base] *

[configure modem as Multi-Stream Remote] *

* When Multi‐Streaming is enabled, the following parameters are consequently modified (if they have not 

already been modified from their default states): RR, RN, MY, CD, AT and BT. [refer to Table 5‐06] 

Theory of Operation

When in Multi-Streaming Mode, all remote modems can initiate communications with the base modem at the same time, but only one remote is granted an exclusive connection. After an exclusive connection begins, data is transferred exclusively between two modems without interruption from any other modems in the network.

An exclusive connection is a bi-directional connection that can only be established when in Multi-

Streaming Mode. An exclusive connection is immune to other remote modems interrupting the connection and interleaving data (The interleaved data potentially renders the base modem unable to discern from which remote modem the data was transmitted).

When an exclusive connection is granted to a single remote, the other remotes are notified that the connection exists. The notification causes the remote modems to postpone transmissions until the base modem sends notification that the exclusive connection has ended.

Figure 5‐07. Sample Connection Sequence Diagram 

CRP = Connection Request Packet

CGP = Connection Grant Packet 

DRP = Disconnect Request Packet (not  shown in diagram – applicable when  remote connection is disconnected using  the pin sleep I/O line. 

DGP = Disconnect Grant Packet 

ACK  = Acknowledgement of reception. 

Base modem = The central  transmitting/receiving modem in a network  of modems that maintains communications  with remote modems. 

Remote modem = A modem in a network  that sends data to and receives data from a  base modem.  

Payload = Data contained inside the RF 

Data of the RF Packet that originates from a  host to be transmitted over‐the‐air. 

In the connection sequence above, an exclusive connection is first granted to “Remote m”. The

CGP (Connection Grant Packet) is broadcast to all remote modems in the network to communicate the base in engaged in an exclusive connection. Upon receipt of the CGP notification, remote modems will wait for a DGP (Disconnect Grant Packet) before attempting again to send data to the base modem.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  46 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Initiating a Connection

Connection Guidelines:

• A remote modem can only request a connection with the base modem.

• The base modem may hold off or grant a connection request to another modem.

• A remote modem will not try to establish a connection if one already exists.

• A connection fails if no response is received after RR (Retries) CRP packets. After a failure, whatever condition was causing a connection to be established is cleared. If the condition was data to be sent, all data in the DI buffer will be flushed. If the condition was DI3 transition, then no connection will be attempted until another correct DI3 transition.

• A global connection cannot fail. [Definition is on next page.]

Once in Multi-Streaming Mode (MD > 0), several events can initiate an exclusive connection:

1. Remote modem has payload to transmit. After a remote modem receives data from its host, the modem will attempt to establish a connection with the base modem. The connection is defined by the remote’s DT (Destination Address) parameter. If another remote has a connection with the base, no connection will be established until the connection runs its course. Any remotes requesting a connection will then arbitrate for the next connection. RR

(Retries) and RN (Random back-off) parameters control this arbitration.

2. Base sets the DT (Destination Address) parameter. When the base modem sets the DT

(Destination Address) parameter, an exclusive connection is immediately initiated with the remote modem that has a matching DT parameter. After the DT command is sent (If

ATCM=1), the base modem indicates a successful connection with a “CONNECT XXXX” string where "XXXX" is the remote's address. An unsuccessful connection is indicated with an

“ERROR” string. If the connection is successful, the modem immediately exits AT Command

Mode and data can be sent to and received from the connected remote modem. If an error is returned, the modem stays in AT Command Mode. If a base is connected to a remote when the DT command is executed, the current connection is disconnected before a new connection is created.

3. DI3 pin (pin 2, SLEEP) is asserted (set low). Both base and remote modems can create a connection (defined by the current DT (Destination Address) parameter) when the DI3 pin is asserted (driven high). DR (DI3 Configuration) Command is used to establish this mode. If a remote asserts DI3, a connection request will be sent when no connection is active. If the base asserts DI3, a connection will immediately be established with the remote after any connection.

Initiating a Disconnection

To disconnect, the base modem sends a DGP (disconnect grant packet). A remote modem can only request a disconnect. The following conditions cause a disconnect:

1. No over-the-air data sent or received for CE (Connection Inactivity Timeout) time. If no overthe-air data is successfully sent (no acknowledgement received) or received (any good packet) for CE time, the connection will be dropped. Only a base modem can detect this condition. Refer to CE Command.

2. Absolute CB (Connection Duration Timeout). The CB parameter defines an absolute timeout.

A timer is started on the remote units when a connection is established. When the connection has been active for CB time, the base will close the connection. A remote that detects this condition will automatically disconnect (it will not send a DRP (disconnect request packet)). Remotes that monitor a connection between the base and another remote will disregard any connection after the CB time. Refer to CB Command.

3. DI3 pin (pin 2, SLEEP) is de-asserted (set high). A base or remote modem can cause a disconnect by setting the DI3 line high. If no connection is active, the de-assertion is ignored. A remote will request a disconnect if DI3 is de-asserted and the remote is currently connected the base. Refer to DR (DI3 Configuration) Command.

4. A remote or a base modem receives the ATDC (Disconnect) Command.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  47 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Configuration

AT Command Mode

AT command mode is used for all commands on base and remote modems. Binary command mode is not available when MD = 1 or 2.

The base is in AT command mode when not engaged in an exclusive connection with a remote.

No AT Command Mode sequence is needed. When a base modem is connected to a remote modem, the AT Command Mode sequence is used to enter AT command mode. The connection with the remote is maintained. Care should be taken that the CE (Connection Inactivity) timeout does not occur while in AT Command Mode.

The remote must use the AT command sequence to enter AT Command Mode. When a connection exists with a base modem, the connection is maintained. Care must be taken that the

CB (Connection Duration) timeout does not occur while in AT Command Mode.

As of firmware version, 4.30, a faster method is available for entering AT Command Mode. If the

BT and AT parameters are set to 0, BT (Guard Time Before) and AT (Guard Time After) times are set to 6 milliseconds.

Beware that this will also mean that AT Command Mode cannot be entered by manually typing the AT command sequence (usually “+++”), because the AT time will occur faster than the characters can be typed.

Auto Configuration

When enabling Multi-Streaming Modes (by setting the MD (RF Mode) parameter to 1 or 2), other parameter values are automatically modified to support the mode. For example, when the MD parameter is changed to 1 or 2, the RR parameter is changed to 0x0A (hex). The modification only occurs if the RR parameter is 0 (its default) before the MD command was executed. If any other value is found for the RR parameter, the RR parameter will not be changed. Auto configuration occurs every time the modem is powered-up.

Table 5‐06. Auto Configurations 

Parameter changed when MD = 1 or 2

RR (Retries)

RN (Delay Slots)

MY (Source Address)

CD (DO3 Configuration)

BT (Guard Time Before)

AT (Guard Time After)

Condition for modification to take place (default values)

If RR = 0

If RN = 0

If MY = 0xFFFF (& MD = 2)

If CD = 0

If BT = 0x0A

If AT = 0x0A

Resulting Parameter Value

RR = 0x0A (10 decimal)

RN = 5

Unique value based on serial number *

CD = 3

BT = 0

AT = 0

* The system requires that each remote have a unique address. The automatic address is based on the serial  number and is not guaranteed unique, although the chances for a duplicate address are 1 in 16,000. No method  currently exists for detecting & reassigning duplicate remote addresses. 

Global Connection

The base modem can connect to all remote modems (to send a broadcast message) by connecting with a DT address of 0xFFFF (hex). There will be no acknowledgements from the remote radios and each packet from the base will be sent RR times. A remote cannot send messages to a base during a global connect.

The CGP and DGP packets will be sent RR times to begin and end the global connection respectively. The connection can be terminated by CE, CB timers, DI3 or ATDC Command as any other connections.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  48 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Sleep Modes and Connections

Cyclic sleep can be used with the remote modems to conserve power. ST “Time before Sleep”

Parameter defines how long after a disconnect a remote will stay awake. A modem is not allowed to enter sleep mode when it is engaged in a connection. A modem will wake as defined by SM parameter and check for an RF message. If a message is detected, the modem will stay awake only if the message is a connect message from the base for this modem. DI3 (pin 2) wake-up can be used to wake a remote modem. Usually the connection on DI3 should also be enabled so that a connection is established on wake-up.

NOTE: The ST (Time Before Sleep) time must be set long enough to account for the time it could take to make a connection if several remote modems get a connection before a remote’s ST times out.

Pin sleep can also be used with a remote modem. A modem will not be allowed into pin sleep while a connection is active. Usually the connection on DI3 (DR = 4) should also be enabled so that a connection is established on wakeup. Pin wake-up could also be used to scan for a connection at an interval not defined by the cyclic sleep modes.

I/O Passing and Connections

I/O lines can be passed between a remote and base modem by enabling I/O line passing (see the

RT, DR, CD, CO, CS, BK, BO commands). When a connection is not active, the output lines on the base and remote modems will be in their default state. When a connection is established, the base and remote output line will be set to reflect the corresponding input lines.

Monitoring Connections

The DO3 pin (RX LED) can be used to show when a connection is active on both remote and base modems. This is the default condition. This line will be asserted (high) during a connection and de-asserted (low) when there is no connection.

A base modem can also be set to send the “CONNECT XXXX” string (where “XXXX” is the connecting modem’s MY (Source Address) parameter) anytime a connection is established. Refer to CM (Connection Message) Command.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  49 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Appendix A: Agency Certifications 

FCC Certification

The XStream RF Modem complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and regulations. Compliance with the labeling requirements, FCC notices and antenna usage guidelines is required.

To fulfill the FCC Certification requirements, the OEM must comply with the following FCC regulations:

1. The system integrator must ensure that the text on the external label provided with this device is placed on the outside of the final product [Figure A-01 for 900 MHz operations or

Figure A-02 for 2.4 GHz operations].

2. The XStream RF Modem may be used only with Approved Antennas that have been tested with this modem. [Table A-01 or Table A-02]

FCC Notices

IMPORTANT: The 9XStream (900 MHz) and 24XStream (2.4 GHz) RF Modems have been certified by the FCC for use with other products without any further certification (as per FCC section 2.1091).

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by MaxStream could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

IMPORTANT: OEMs must test their final product to comply with unintentional radiators (FCC section

15.107 and 15.109) before declaring compliance of their final product to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

IMPORTANT: The XStream RF Modems have been certified for remote and base radio applications. If the XStream will be used for portable applications, the device must undergo SAR testing.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Re-orient 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.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  50 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

OEM Labeling Requirements

Label Warning

WARNING The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) must ensure that FCC labeling requirements are met. This includes a clearly visible label on the outside of the final product enclosure that displays the contents shown in the figure below.

Figure A‐01. Required FCC Label for OEM products containing 9XStream (900 MHz) RF Modem 

Contains FCC ID: OUR9XSTREAM

The enclosed 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 undesired operation.

Figure A‐02. Required FCC Label for OEM products containing 24XStream (2.4 GHz) RF Modem 

Contains FCC ID: OUR-24XSTREAM

The enclosed 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 undesired operation.

Antenna Usage

Antenna Warning

WARNING: This device has been tested with Reverse Polarity SMA connectors with the antennas listed in Table A-01 & Table A-02 of Appendix A. When integrated in

OEM products, fixed antennas require installation preventing end-users from replacing them with non-approved antennas. Antennas not listed in the tables must be tested to comply with FCC Section 15.203 (unique antenna connectors) and Section 15.247 (emissions).

RF Exposure

WARNING: This equipment is approved only for mobile and base station transmitting devices, separation distances of (i) 20 centimeters or more for antennas with gains < 6 dBi or (ii) 2 meters or more for antennas with gains ≥ 6 dBi should be maintained between the antenna of this device and nearby persons during operation. To ensure compliance, operation at distances closer than this is not recommended.

The preceding statement must be included as a CAUTION statement in manuals for OEM products to alert users of FCC RF Exposure compliance.

MaxStream radio modems are pre-FCC approved for use in fixed base station and mobile applications. As long as the antenna is mounted at least 20 cm (8 in) from nearby persons, the application is considered a mobile application. If the antenna will be mounted closer than 20 cm to nearby persons, then the application is considered “portable” and requires an additional test performed on the final product. This test is called the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing and measures the emissions from the radio modem and how they affect the person.

Over 100 additional antennas have been tested and are approved for use with MaxStream 900

MHz Radio Modems (including “Mag Mount”, “Dome”, “Multi-path” and “Panel” antennas).

Because of the large number of approved antennas, MaxStream requests that you send specific information about an antenna you would like to use with the modem and MaxStream will evaluate whether the antenna is covered under our FCC filing.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  51 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

FCC Approved Antennas

Table A‐01. Antennas approved for use with 9XStream (900 MHz) RF Modems. 

Manufacturer

*

*

MaxStream

*

*

MaxStream

MaxStream

MaxStream

MaxStream

*

*

MaxStream

MaxStream

MaxStream

MaxStream

Part Number

*

*

A09-Y8

*

*

A09-Y11 (FCC pending)

A09-F2

A09-F5

A09-F8

*

*

A09-M7

A09-H

A09-HBMM-P5I

A09-QBMM-P5I

Type

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Omni Direct.

Omni Direct.

Omni Direct.

Omni Direct.

Omni Direct.

Omni Direct.

1/2 wave antenna

1/2 wave antenna

1/4 wave antenna

Gain

6.2 dBi

7.2 dBi

8.2 dBi

9.2 dBi

10.2 dBi

11.2 dBi

2.2 dBi

5.2 dBi

8.2 dBi

9.2 dBi

7.2 dBi

7.2 dBi

2.1 dBi

2.1 dBi

1.9 dBi

1.9 dBi

Table A‐02. Antennas approved for use with 24XStream (2.4 GHz) RF Modems.   

Application

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Min. Separation Distance

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

1 cm

1 cm

1 cm

Manufacturer Part Number Type Gain Application

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Yagi

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

Yagi

*

*

MaxStream

MaxStream

*

*

*

MaxStream

*

*

A24-P8

A24-P13

*

*

*

A24-P19

Omni Direct

Omni Direct

Panel

Panel

Panel

Panel

Panel

Panel

12 dBi

15 dBi

8.5 dBi

13 dBi

14 dBi

15 dBi

16 dBi

19 dBi

MaxStream

MaxStream

A24-HABMM-P6I

A24-HBMM-P6I

Dipole

Dipole

2.1 dBi

2.1 dBi

MaxStream A24-HABSM Dipole 2.1 dBi

MaxStream A24-QABMM-P6I Monopole 1.9 dBi

*

*

A24-Q1

*

Monopole

Monopole

1.9 dBi

1.9 dBi

15 dBi

2.1 dBi

3 dBi

5 dBi

7.2 dBi

8 dBi

9.5 dBi

10 dBi

6 dBi

8.8 dBi

9 dBi

10 dBi

11 dBi

12 dBi

12.5 dBi

13.5 dBi

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed/Mobile **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

Fixed **

* FCC‐approved antennas not inventoried by MaxStream – Contact MaxStream (866) 765‐9885 for information. 

** Can be approved for portable applications if integrator gains approval through SAR testing 

Min. Separation Distance

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

20cm

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

20 cm

20 cm

20 cm

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

2 m

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  52 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

European Compliance (2.4 GHz only)

The 24XStream has been certified for use in several European countries. For a complete list, refer to http://www.maxstream.net

.

If the 24XStream modems are incorporated into a product, the manufacturer must ensure compliance of the final product to the European harmonized EMC and low-voltage/safety standards. A Declaration of Conformity must be issued for each of these standards and kept on file as described in Annex II of the R&TTE Directive. Furthermore, the manufacturer must maintain a copy of the XStream user manual documentation and ensure the final product does not exceed the specified power ratings, antenna specifications, and/or installation requirements as specified in the user manual. If any of these specifications are exceeded in the final product, a submission must be made to a notified body for compliance testing to all required standards.

OEM Labeling Requirements

The ‘CE’ marking must be affixed to a visible location on the OEM product.

Figure A‐03. CE Labeling Requirements 

>5

(Taller than 5 mm)

The CE mark shall consist of the initials “CE” taking the following form:

• If the CE marking is reduced or enlarged, the proportions given in the above graduated drawing must be respected.

• The CE marking must have a height of at least 5mm except where this is not possible on account of the nature of the apparatus.

• The CE marking must be affixed visibly, legibly, and indelibly.

Furthermore, since the usage of the 2400 – 2483.5 MHz band is not harmonized throughout

Europe, the Restriction sign must be placed to the right of the ‘CE’ marking as shown below. See the R&TTE Directive, Article 12 and Annex VII for more information

Figure A‐04. CE Label Required on OEM Equipment   

Restrictions

France – France imposes restrictions on the 2.4 GHz band. Go to www.art-telecom.Fr or contact

MaxStream for more information.

Norway – Norway prohibits operation near Ny-Alesund in Svalbard. More information can be found at the Norway Posts and Telecommunications site (www.npt.no).

24XStream Declarations of Conformity

MaxStream has issued Declarations of Conformity for the 24XStream modems concerning emissions, EMC and safety. Files are located in the ‘documentation’ folder of the MaxStream CD.

Important Note

MaxStream does not list the entire set of standards that must be met for each country.

MaxStream customers assume full responsibility for learning and meeting the required guidelines for each country in their distribution market. For more information relating to European compliance of an OEM product incorporating the 24XStream modem, contact MaxStream, or refer to the following web sites:

CEPT ERC 70-03E – Technical Requirements, European restrictions and general requirements:

Available at www.ero.dk/

R&TTE Directive – Equipment requirements, placement on market: Available at www.ero.dk/

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  53 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Notifications and Required Information

Since the 2.4 GHz band is not harmonized throughout Europe, a notification must be sent to each country prior to shipping product according to Article 6.4 of the R&TTE Directive. A list of national contacts for most European countries may be found at www.ero.dk/.

The following technical data (relating to the 24XStream) is often required in filling out a notification form.

• Frequency Band: 2400.0 – 2483.5 MHz

• Modulation: Frequency Shift Keying

• Channel Spacing: 400 kHz

• ITU Classification: 400KF1D

• Output Power: 100 mW EIRP

• Notified Body Number: 0891

Contact MaxStream (801) 765-9885 if additional information is required.

Europe (2.4 GHz) Approved Antenna List

Table A‐03. Antennas approved for use with 24XStream (2.4 GHz) RF Modems in Europe 

Manufacturer Part Number Type Gain Application

MaxStream A24-HABMM-P6I Dipole 2.1 dBi

MaxStream A24-HBMM-P6I Dipole 2.1 dBi

MaxStream A24-HABSM Dipole 2.1 dBi

MaxStream A24-QABMM-P6I Monopole 1.9 dBi

Fixed/Mobile *

Fixed/Mobile *

Fixed/Mobile *

Fixed/Mobile *

MaxStream A24-QBMM-P6I Monopole 1.9 dBi Fixed/Mobile *

MaxStream A24-Q1 Monopole 1.9 dBi Fixed/Mobile *

* Can be approved for portable applications if integrator gains approval through additional SAR testing 

Minimum Separation

Distance

20cm

20cm

20cm

20cm

20cm

20cm

IC (Industry Canada) Certification

Labeling requirements for Industry Canada are similar to those of the FCC. A clearly visible label on the outside of the final product enclosure must display the following text:

Contains Model 9XStream Radio (900 MHz), IC: 4214A-9XSTREAM

Contains Model 24XStream Radio (2.4 GHz), IC: 4214A 12008

Integrator is responsible for its product to comply with IC ICES-003 & FCC Part 15, Sub. B -

Unintentional Radiators. ICES-003 is the same as FCC Part 15 Sub. B and Industry Canada accepts FCC test report or CISPR 22 test report for compliance with ICES-003.

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  54 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Appendix B:  Additional Information 

1-Year Warranty

XStream RF Modems from MaxStream, Inc. (the ʺProductʺ) are warranted against defects in materials  and workmanship under normal use, for a period of 1‐year from the date of purchase. In the event of  a product failure due to materials or workmanship, MaxStream will repair or replace the defective  product. For warranty service, return the defective product to MaxStream, shipping prepaid, for  prompt repair or replacement. 

The foregoing sets forth the full extent of MaxStreamʹs warranties regarding the Product. Repair or  replacement at MaxStreamʹs option is the exclusive remedy. THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN IN LIEU 

OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND MAXSTREAM SPECIFICALLY 

DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR 

PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL MAXSTREAM, ITS SUPPLIERS OR LICENSORS BE LIABLE FOR 

DAMAGES IN EXCESS OF THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT, FOR ANY LOSS OF USE, 

LOSS OF TIME, INCONVENIENCE, COMMERCIAL LOSS, LOST PROFITS OR SAVINGS, OR 

OTHER INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE 

OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT, TO THE FULL EXTENT SUCH MAY BE DISCLAIMED BY 

LAW. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR 

CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. THEREFOR, THE FOREGOING EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY 

IN ALL CASES. This warranty provides specific legal rights. Other rights which vary from state to  state may also apply. 

Ordering Information

Figure B‐01.  MaxStream RF Modem Part Numbers Key 

 

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  55 

XStream‐PKG‐E™ Ethernet RF Modem – Product Manual v5.x00 [2006.02.24] 

Contact MaxStream

Free and unlimited technical support is included with every MaxStream Radio Modem sold.

Please use the following resources for additional support:

Documentation:

Technical Support: www.maxstream.net/support/downloads.php

Phone. (866) 765-9885 toll-free U.S. & Canada

Live Chat.

E-Mail. www.maxstream.net

[email protected]

MaxStream office hours are 8:00 am – 5:00 pm [U.S. Mountain Standard Time]

   © 2006 MaxStream, Inc. Confidential and Proprietary  56 

advertisement

Was this manual useful for you? Yes No
Thank you for your participation!

* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project

Related manuals

Download PDF

advertisement

Table of contents