Frequently Asked Questions

Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions

Which providers can I use?

•Two major providers are T-Mobile and AT&T.

Does this modem support High-Speed Circuit-Switched Data (HSCSD)?

•No, our GSM/GPRS modems do not support HSCSD.

The modem is answering, but seems to not be doing anything?

•The modem is answering in voice mode.

•If you are trying to make a data call, make sure the account has CSD service. You will also need the data number (separate number from the main phone number that is provided by the provider).

I am trying to make a data connection by dialing from my wireless modem to an analog modem. Why does the analog modem answer and send tones, but never connect?

•To make a data call you must use the ATD<number> command.

•Make sure the account has CSD service.

How do I get the voice portion to work so I can talk to others using the wireless modem?

•You will need a cable that has the speaker pins connected to a speaker and microphone.

•We have a “Y” cable that splits out to a RJ9 connector that can be used to plug into the receiver of a handset.

•‘ATD<number>;’ will originate a voice call.

How do I make an Internet connection to my dial-up ISP?

•Make sure you have CSD service.

•Create a dial-up connection to the ISP’s access number, then use your account username and password and choose the wireless modem as the device.

How does faxing work?

•GPRS modems support Class 1 and Class 2 Group 3 faxing.

•You will need fax services setup on your account. You should receive a separate phone number for fax just like voice and data, and you must call the fax number for the modem to receive a fax.

•You will also need fax software (we do not have working software). WinFax Version 10 has been tested with success.

I can’t make outgoing calls. I just receive a NO CARRIER response.

•Make sure the antenna is connected and SIM is inserted correctly.

•Check signal and registration: ‘AT+CSQ’ (10-31 is good), ‘AT+CREG?’ (0,1 is registered & 0,5 is roaming).

•Check NO CARRIER reason with ‘AT+CEER’. Look up error code in Reference Guide.

The modem will not answer.

•To have modem autoanswer, set modem with ‘ATS0=1’ and ‘AT&W’ to store the setting.

•Send ‘ATA’ to the modem once the RING is indicated on the terminal screen.

•You may need to set modem to ignore DTR, ‘AT&D0’, if you aren’t providing DTR.

I am trying to make a GPRS connection using a Windows dial-up session. It connects and then immediately disconnects.

•Make sure the APN is configured in the modem correctly (The APN is provided by the provider).

•Check the APN with ‘AT+CGDCONT?’ To make sure it is correct.

•If no APN is inserted, then insert the correct APN using the command ‘AT+CGDCONT=1,”IP”,”<APN>”’ with HyperTerminal or add it into the “Extra Initialization Commands:” in the modem’s properties.

•Make sure the APN is correct for your account.

When I try to establish a GPRS connection using Windows dial-up I get an error: “Hardware Failure”.

•Check the modem to make sure it is installed and can be queried in the modem’s properties.

•Make sure the com port is not being held by another application. Look for the TR light indication. If it is on, most likely another application is holding onto the port.

•Make sure the dial-up connections maximum speed matches the modem’s properties maximum port speed.

•Try rebooting the PC.

What is the maximum amount of characters I can use to send an SMS message?

•Supports up to 160 characters maximum.

•In PDU mode using 7-bit, the modem still supports 160 characters, but in 8-bit the modem will support only 70 characters.

Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. MultiModem EDGE Wireless Modem User Guide

MTCBA-E specifications

The Multi-Tech Systems MTCBA-E is a robust and versatile cellular modem designed to meet the demands of various industrial applications. This innovative device combines reliable connectivity with advanced features, making it a popular choice among businesses looking to integrate cellular communication into their operations.

One of the standout features of the MTCBA-E is its multi-band LTE capability. This modem supports various LTE frequency bands, ensuring compatibility with multiple carriers and networks. This flexibility allows users to deploy the device across different geographical regions without the need for extensive reconfiguration, making it ideal for businesses with a wide-ranging footprint.

The MTCBA-E is engineered for durability and reliability, making it well-suited for harsh environments. Its rugged design ensures that it can withstand extreme temperatures, dust, and moisture, which is essential for outdoor applications and industrial use cases. This resilience helps reduce maintenance costs and enhances lifespan, providing a long-lasting communication solution.

In addition to its physical durability, the MTCBA-E incorporates advanced security features to safeguard data transmission. It supports secure VPN protocols, which is critical for protecting sensitive business information as it traverses public networks. This focus on security ensures that users can transmit data confidently, which is vital for applications that deal with sensitive or proprietary information.

Another notable characteristic of the MTCBA-E is its dual SIM functionality. This feature allows for failover capabilities, ensuring that the modem can switch between two different cellular networks seamlessly. This redundancy is crucial for mission-critical applications that demand uninterrupted connectivity, such as remote monitoring and IoT deployments.

The modem also includes a range of connectivity options, such as Ethernet and USB interfaces, allowing for straightforward integration with various devices and systems. Furthermore, it supports multiple communication protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of applications, from telematics and asset tracking to smart city initiatives.

In terms of management and monitoring, the MTCBA-E offers a user-friendly interface that facilitates easy configuration and monitoring of the device's performance. This greatly simplifies network management, and helps in troubleshooting potential issues quickly and efficiently.

Overall, the Multi-Tech Systems MTCBA-E is a well-rounded cellular modem that combines advanced technology with robust design, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking to enhance their connectivity capabilities in a wide range of applications. Its combination of durability, security, and flexibility ensures that it meets the evolving needs of modern communication.