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Home > Resources > Setup for Raven XT Cell Modems (GSM)

Setup for Raven XT Cell Modems (GSM)

Note: This technote is incomplete. We will continue to add information in the coming months.

The Raven XT is an IP modem designed to operate on the internet via cell connections.

Equipment

These instructions assume that you have this equipment:

  • Raven XT Modem with antenna
  • SIM card with data service and a static IP address. (Dynamic IPs will be discussed in a separate tech note.) Remove the front panel of the modem to insert the SIM card, but wait until later to do this.
  • Power supply for modem. The modem accepts a nominal 12 Vdc up to 15 Vdc.
  • AceManager and ModemDoctor. Install these two programs on your PC. You can find them on the CD supplied with the modem or download them from the Sierra Wireless website. On the CD, look in theTools and Utilities folder.
  • Serial cable to connect PC to modem. This cable has straight -though conductors with a DB9 male and DB9 female connectors. If your PC does not have an RS232 serial port, you will need a USB to serial adaptor.
  • Null-modem serial cable to connect modem to logger. This cable has cross-over wires. Male DB9 connectors are required at both ends. If necessary, you can buy a “gender bender” adaptor to convert a female connector to a male connector.

Step 1: Clear all Settings from the Modem

  1. Check that the modem is not powered.
  2. Open the modem and remove the SIM card.
Raven XT Modem with antenna
  1. Connect the PC to the modem. Use the straight-through serial cable.
  2. Re-connect power to the modem.
  3. Wait a few minutes.
Connecting the PC to the Modem for the Raven XT
  1. Run Modem Doctor. (Click through any warnings that are displayed).
  2. Select Erase non-volatile data and click Next
Running modem doctor
  1. Select Serial Interface.
  2. Select Com port.
  3. Click Next.
  • Note: Depending on the state of your modem, you may seen the screen below.
Interface of sierra wireless for Raven XT Modem with antenna
  • This screen might appear, rather than the screen above.
  1. Select Boot
  2. Select the serial port
  3. Select the baud rate
  4. Click Next.
Screen shot for setting up Raven XT Modem
Confirm that you want to erase the data.Confirmation pop up for deleting data
Use a pen or paper clip to press the reset button.
Use a pen or paperclip to press the reset button for the Raven XT Modem
Airlink Raven XT Modem with antenna
  1. Operation is successful.
  2. Click Finish.
Operation is successful screen view

Step 2: Check Connectivity

  1. Disconnect power
  2. Insert SIM card
  3. Reconnect power.
  4. Check that antenna is attached properly.
  5. Wait five minutes for a connection. Watch the lights.
  6. Start Ace Manager.
  7. Connect to the modem. If you cannot connect, click the SOS checkbox on the connection screen and try again.
  8. Once you are connected, Ace Manager will retrieve information from the logger.
  9. Look in the status section. You should see :
  • Network IP: some value
  • Network Sate: Network Ready
  • Network Service Type: GPRS