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Manual AMB8355

Version 2.1

SW-V2.0

AMBER wireless GmbH


Albin-Köbis-Straße 18
51147 Köln
Tel. +49 (0) 2203-6991950
Fax +49 (0) 2203-459883
E-Mail info@amber-wireless.de
Internet http://www.amber-wireless.de
Table of Contents
1 Brief Description ................................................................................................................... 3
2 Pin Assignment, Dimensions, Technical Data .................................................................... 4
2.1 Pin Assignment of the ST1 Pin Header ............................................................................. 4
2.2 Pin Assignment of the ST2 Pin Header ............................................................................. 4
2.3 Status LEDs ...................................................................................................................... 5
2.3.1 Meaning of the LEDs .................................................................................................. 5
2.3.2 Connection of External LEDs ..................................................................................... 5
2.3.3 Pin Assignment of the ST4 LED Pin Header .............................................................. 5
2.4 Antenna Input ................................................................................................................... 5
2.5 Dimensions and Weight .................................................................................................... 6
2.6 Technical Data .................................................................................................................. 6
2.6.1 General Parameters ................................................................................................... 6
2.6.2 RF Parameters ........................................................................................................... 6
2.6.3 Channel Frequency Assignment and Utilisation Table................................................ 7
2.7 Range and its Improvement .............................................................................................. 7
2.8 Information on Operating the Modules .............................................................................. 8
3 Configuration with AT Commands ....................................................................................... 8
3.1 Switch to Command Mode ................................................................................................ 9
3.2 AT Command Set ............................................................................................................. 9
3.2.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 9
3.2.2 Standard AT-Commands .......................................................................................... 10
3.2.3 AT-Commands for S-Registers ................................................................................ 12
3.2.4 Extended AT-Commands ......................................................................................... 15
4 Configuration with “AMBER wireless Config Center” (ACC) ........................................... 17
5 Description of the RF Data Transmission Modem Modes ................................................ 18
5.1 Operating Mode 2, Transparent Transmission, Without Acknowledge and CRC ............ 18
5.2 Operating Mode 3, Addressed Transmission, Without Acknowledge, with CRC ............. 18
5.3 Operating Mode 4, Addressed Transmission, with ACK and Retries............................... 18
5.4 Operating Mode 6, Installation Mode for Radio Link Assessment ................................... 18
5.5 Handshake Mode 1, Collision Detection.......................................................................... 19
5.6 Information Regarding RSSI Measurement .................................................................... 19
6 Characteristics of the Radio Link....................................................................................... 20
6.1 Latency ........................................................................................................................... 20
6.2 Internal Handling of Data ................................................................................................ 20
7 Dimensioned Drawing......................................................................................................... 21
8 Regulatory Compliance Information .................................................................................. 22
8.1 Important Notice ............................................................................................................. 22
8.2 Declaration of Conformity ............................................................................................... 23
9 Important notes ................................................................................................................... 24
9.1 Disclaimer of Liability ...................................................................................................... 24
9.2 Trademarks .................................................................................................................... 24
9.3 Limitation of Use ............................................................................................................. 24

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 2 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


1 Brief Description
The AMB8355 radio data transmission module is especially well suited for the transmission of
data over long distances because of its high transmitting power and good receiver sensitivity.
The integrated processor takes over optimised control of the RF component and facilitates easy
handling and transmission of data that is transparent to the user.
Thanks to the flexible data interface and the broad supply voltage range, the module can be
integrated into a great variety of systems in a short time and without much effort.
In order to do justice to the different demands placed on the radio transmission, the AMB8355
has different transmission modes that can be individually adapted to the application as needed:
addressed point-to-point or point-to-multipoint transmission, with acknowledge, and
securing with CRC and automatic retries
addressed transmission, without acknowledge, with CRC check
non-addressed, non-secured transparent transmission (broadcast)
The RS232 serial port is used to parameterise the radio module. There are two possibilities
available as a user interface:
comfortably, using the free configuration program called “AMBER wireless Config
Centre” (ACC)
flexibly, using one of the two serial ports (UART1, e.g. simply by using a PC terminal
program) with AT commands
Due to its general certification, the AMB8355 can be used directly by the user (in compliance
with the regulated duty cycle, see chapter 2.6.3).
The 868 MHz band used is a frequency band harmonised across Europe.

Features
receiver sensitivity of typically -112 dBm (for 2.4 and 4.8 kBaud RF transmission rate)
transmission power typically 27 dBm – 500 mW
range of more than 20 km with a clear line of sight and suitable operating conditions
optional data securing with CCITT 16-bit checksum
transparent bit transmission without command level (cable replacement!)
different transmission modes (broadcast, transmission protocol)
installation mode as a means for link quality assessment
individual addressing of the AMB8355
complete RS-232 port based on the V.24 standard
serial data rates of 110 to 115,200 baud, configurable
RF transmission rates of 2400, 4800, 9600, or 19200 baud, configurable
parameterisation via RS232 with Windows configuration software or AT commands
possibility of firmware update by RS232 with the help of the ACC
power supply 7.0 – 30 V (5.6V with reconfiguration)

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 3 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


use across Europe with no need for notification
two UART ports (RS232 compatible and TTL level)

2 Pin Assignment, Dimensions, Technical Data

Figure 1 Pin assignment

2.1 Pin Assignment of the ST1 Pin Header


The pitch distance of the pin header is 2.54 mm.

AMB8355 ST1 Connection Strip PC SUB-D-9 w


Direction
PIN Name Meaning Name Pin
1 AD6 AD converter input Input - -
2 GND Ground - GND 5
3 VCC Operating voltage (7 to 30) V - - -
4 CTS1 Clear to Send Input RTS 7
5 RTS1 Request to Send Output CTS 8
6 TxD1 Transmit Data Output RxD 2
7 RxD1 Receive Data Input TxD 3
8 DTR1 Data Terminal Ready Output DSR 6
9 DSR1 Data Set Ready Input DTR 4

2.2 Pin Assignment of the ST2 Pin Header

AMB8355 ST2 Connection Strip PC SUB-D-9 w


Direction
PIN Name Meaning Name Pin
1 V_DIGI Digital component voltage (3.3 V) Output - -
2 GND Ground - - -
3 ENA Module Enable Input - -
4 DCD1 Data Carrier Detect Output DCD 1
5 RI1 Ring Indicator Output RI 9
6 CTS0 Clear to Send (TTL level) Input - -

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 4 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


AMB8355 ST2 Connection Strip PC SUB-D-9 w
Direction
PIN Name Meaning Name Pin
7 RTS0 Request to Send (TTL level) Output - -
8 TxD0 Transmit Data (TTL level) Output - -
9 RxD0 Receive Data (TTL level) Input - -

2.3 Status LEDs

2.3.1 Meaning of the LEDs

Colour Function Action Reaction


Green RX Reception of data by radio Very rapid flashing
Module is operational Flashes every second
Yellow Status Module in AT command mode Rapid flashing (2 Hz)
Installation mode Rapid flashing (4 Hz)
Red TX Transmission of data by radio Very rapid flashing
Red Power µC started Continuous illumination

2.3.2 Connection of External LEDs


The LED signals are also on pin header ST4 in order to be able to attach the LEDs externally,
for example. If external LEDs are used, then the LEDs on the AMB8355 must be switched off
in order to not overload the controller ports. To switch off the LEDs, jumper SJ1 (see Figure 1)
must be removed. The series resistors of the LEDs are already on the board so that external
LEDs can be used without any series resistors. The value of the series resistors on the PCB is
330 Ω. For a LED voltage of 1.6V for example, 5 mA is thus routed through the LED.

2.3.3 Pin Assignment of the ST4 LED Pin Header

AMB8350 ST4 Connection Strip (LEDs)


PIN Signal
1 switched GND (Cathode RX-LED)
2 VCC +3.3 V (Anode RX-LED)
3 switched GND (Cathode Status-LED)
4 VCC +3.3 V (Anode Status-LED)
5 switched GND (Cathode TX-LED)
6 VCC +3.3 V (Anode TX-LED)
7 switched GND (Cathode Power-LED)
8 VCC +3.3 V (Anode Power-LED)
ST4 position and pin out: see Figure 1

2.4 Antenna Input


Angled SMA female connector.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 5 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


2.5 Dimensions and Weight
Size without antenna connector: (97.0 x 38.0 x 19) mm³
Weight: 45 g
Dimensions: see Figure 4

2.6 Technical Data

2.6.1 General Parameters

Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Comment


Supply voltage, Vcc 7.0V 30.0V
85 mA Vcc= 7 V
Power consumption, RX
30 mA Vcc= 30 V
500 mA Vcc= 7 V
Power consumption, TX
125 mA Vcc= 30 V
Operating temperature range -30 °C +70 °C
Baud rates of the UARTs 110bps 9,600bps 115,200bps configurable (ats1=x,x,x,x)
Data format of the UARTs 8n1 configurable (ats1=x,x,x,x)
Xon/Xof
Handshake of the UARTs without RTS/CTS configurable (ats2=x)
f

2.6.2 RF Parameters
Measured at 25°C
Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Comment
10 channels ("ATCX")
Frequency range* 869.4 MHz 869.5375 MHz 869.65 MHz
See restrictions in 2.6.2
Channel spacing 25 kHz See restrictions in 2.6.3
Duty Cycle <10% 10% Based on one hour
Transmitting power at
-10 dBm 27 dBm 27 dBm Configurable ("ATPX")
50Ω
Input sensitivity -112 dBm BER ≤ 0.1%
Data transfer rate, net 1500 bit/s Packet length 20 Byte, mode 2
2400

Frequency deviation +/-1.6 kHz


Input sensitivity -112 dBm BER ≤ 0,1%
RF-Transmission rate / Baud

Data transfer rate, net


4800

Frequency deviation +/-2.5 kHz


Input sensitivity -
Data transfer rate, net
9600

Frequency deviation +/-3.6 kHz


Input sensitivity -106 dBm BER ≤ 0,1%
Packet length 20 Byte, mode
19200

Data transfer rate, net 8600 bit/s


2
Frequency deviation +/-9.9 kHz
Frequency accuracy +/-3 kHz +/-4 kHz

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 6 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Comment
Size of internal serial If there are more than 2000
receiving and bytes in the internal buffer,
2048 bytes
transmission buffer for then a data stop is signalled
UART0 and UART1 during the handshake via RTS
Packet size (user data The packet size is variable
content) 1 byte 255 bytes depending on the volume of
via radio data and the configuration.

Caution: The user is responsible for compliance with the duty cycle, the choice of
working frequency and for setting the transmitting power as per the table in chapter
2.6.3!

2.6.3 Channel Frequency Assignment and Utilisation Table

Usable RF data rate


Operating 2,4 kbp 4,8 kbp
Channel Frequency s s 9,6 kbps 19,2 kbps
0 869412,5 kHz Yes
1 869437,5 kHz Yes Yes
2 869462,5 kHz Yes Yes Yes
3 869487,5 kHz Yes Yes Yes
4 869512,5 kHz Yes Yes Yes Yes
5 869537,5 kHz Yes Yes Yes Yes
6 869562,5 kHz Yes Yes Yes
7 869587,5 kHz Yes Yes Yes
8 869612,5 kHz Yes Yes
9 869637,5 kHz Yes

According to the R&TTE directive, a duty cycle of 10% and a transmission power of 27 dBm
(500 mW) can be used.
Channel 5 as well as a RF data rate of 4.8 kbps are configured upon initial delivery. Please
refer to the corresponding AT commands (“ATC” and “ATS6”).

2.7 Range and its Improvement


The RF data transmission module has a powerful transmitter and a receiver with highly
sensitive reception. Ranges of more than 20 km are thus possible with a clear line of sight and
good environmental conditions.
In order to obtain the best-possible broadcast of the electromagnetic waves, the following
points must be observed for the RF data transmission module:
use of a suitable λ/4 vertical emitter as an antenna
For a plug-in antenna on the antenna connector: observe counterweight (groundplane,
grounded metal area) on the antenna base

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 7 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


polarise all antennas exactly vertical for the best omni-directional characteristics
maintain the greatest possible distance between the antenna and the ground (at least
1 m)
maintain the shortest possible antenna cable length
keep the antenna far away from any nearby electrically conductive materials
check the altitude profile of the radio path in the terrain and optimise the antenna
position if necessary
stable and clean DC voltage supply for the modules
don’t operate antennas directly on the body
A good compromise between receiver sensitivity and data transfer rate is a RF transmission
rate of 4800 baud.

2.8 Information on Operating the Modules


To make sure that the RF data transmission works with the user’s system, the interface
parameters necessary for the system must be determined. If necessary, they must be
configured in the RF data transmission module. Operation is not possible if there are differing
interface settings, or only invalid characters will be transmitted. Two possibilities for configuring
the module via RS232 are available:
1. AT command set with a terminal program (chapter 3).
Also see external document “Hyperterminal_HB” (short description)
2. “AMBER wireless Config Center“ Windows Tool ACC (Chapter 4)
Also see external document “ACC_HB“

Caution: when handling the module, it is mandatory that ESD regulations be


complied with, in order to prevent any damage from a static discharge! The
AMB8355 should not be operated without an antenna or a suitable 50 Ω termination
on the antenna connector!

3 Configuration with AT Commands


The RF data transmission modem can be configured with a PC using the AT command set.
RS232 is used for parameterisation. A terminal program (e.g. Hyperterminal) can be used for
communication with the module. The correct interface parameters in the terminal program are a
prerequisite for this. The data format, data rate and handshake mode must be set the same as
in the AMB8355 (Default at initial start-up: 9600 bps, 8n1, no handshake). The external short
description “Hyperterminal_HB” is available for how to use the Hyperterminal.

Caution: The AT commands will only be understood correctly if the settings are the
same, and only then is correct data transmission possible. Therefore, we
recommend writing down the parameter settings of each modem. That way the
interface settings can be set later and correct communication with the modem can
be set up and executed quickly.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 8 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


3.1 Switch to Command Mode
An escape sequence is used to change from data mode to command mode.
The ASCII character “+” (decimal 43) is set at the default escape character. The escape
character can be set using the command “ATS5=x”.
Switch to command mode:
0.5 seconds waiting time before entering the escape character
type in the escape character 3x within 1 second
0.5 seconds waiting time after entering the escape character
If the changeover to command mode was successful, the modem returns an “OK”.
After a software or hardware reset, the AMB8355 returns once again to transmission mode.
Without a reset, you can return to transmission mode with the command “ATO”.

3.2 AT Command Set

3.2.1 General
The RF data transmission device must be connected to a free COM port of the PC
Commands are input with the help of a terminal program, e.g. Hyperterminal (see
external short description “Hyperterminal_HB”)
When the RF data transmission module is put into operation for the first time, the
terminal session must be configured with the RS232 parameters 9600 bps, 8n1, without
handshake (default settings)
Command lines must always begin with AT (ATtention)
The commands can be entered in capitals or small letters
The commands must be completed with a CR (return), except for escape sequences
At command level, a character echo is always returned to the RS232 port

Caution: Most configuration settings are only stored in the modules non-volatile
memory with the command “AT&W”, and they usually only become effective after a
reset (power up or soft reset “ATZ”). Some parameters become effective when
switching back to transmission mode using “ATO” (see the respective comments).

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 9 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


3.2.2 Standard AT-Commands

Cmd Description Permissible values Example

Cx Set up communications channel (0-9) ATC5


The communications channel is set up with this command.
Before changing the channel, please consider chapter 2.6.3 “Channel Frequency
and Utilisation Table”!
Comment:
The settings become effective on the next transition to radio mode (“ATO”)
The settings are not saved permanently until the command “AT&W” is executed
Default setting: 5

Ix Return product information (0-9) ATI2


With this command, product-specific information can be determined.
0: Product name
Product ID : AMB8355
1: Information on manufacturer
Vendor ID : AMBER wireless GmbH Germany
2: Software release
Software Release: 1.5.2
3-7: not used
8: Serial number of the transceiver
Serial Nr. : 302
Product ID : 20
9: Date of software compilation
Date of compilation: Sep 23 2008

Mx Set operating mode (2-4, 6) ATM2


The RF modem can be put into different operating modes. There is a detailed
description of the modes in chapter 5.
2: Data transmission not addressed, without acknowledge, without CRC
(broadcast)
3: Data transmission addressed, without acknowledge, with CRC
4: Data transmission addresses, with acknowledge, CRC and retries
6: Installation mode as a means to assess the quality of the radio link
Default setting: 4

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 10 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


Cmd Description Permissible values Example

O Change from command mode to online mode ATO


If the modem is in command mode after an escape sequence, this command can then
be used to put it back into data mode, for example after temporarily setting a new
communication partner (“AT&Cx””).

Px Transmission power of the module (0-500) ATP500


The transmission power in mW (typical) of the module can be set with this command.
Comment:
The settings become effective on the next transition to radio mode (“ATO”)
The settings are not saved permanently until the command “AT&W” is executed
Default setting: 500

Z Software reset of the modem ATZ


A software reset of the modem is performed with this command, similar to switching
the modem off and back on again.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 11 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


3.2.3 AT-Commands for S-Registers

Cmd Description Permissible values Example

S1=x,x,x,x RS232 port parameters (see below) ATS1=9600,8,n,1


Enter the parameters using the pattern “baud rate", "data bits", "parity", "stop bits"
Permissible value ranges:
Baud rate: 1…115.200 (e.g. 110, 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200)
Data bits: 7 or 8
Parity: e, n or o (even, no, odd)
Stop bits: 1 or 2
Interface speeds that are outside the usual PC values can be configured with the baud
rate parameter (see example above). If a non-standard value is set and saved in the
module, then RS232 access by a PC (with an interface or terminal program that is not
suitable for the baud rate) may only be possible with the help of ACC.
Default setting: 9600,8,n,1

S2=x RS232 flow control (0-5) ATS2=0


Choice of RS232 data flow control and special functions
0: no handshake (only recommended for reduced amount of data traffic)
1: no handshake with collision detection Level on ST1 Pin5 (RTS): LOW = RF channel
busy; HIGH = RF channel free

2: not permitted
3: Hardware handshake (RTS/CTS)
4: Software handshake (Xon/Xoff)
5: no handshake, instead RS232 Rx/Tx signalling (e.g. for RS485 converter)
Level on ST1 Pin5 (RTS): LOW=RS232-TxD, HIGH=RS232-RxD

Default setting: 0

S3=x TX character limit (1-255) ATS3=20


Number of characters to be transferred via RS232 after which they are sent by radio at
the latest (e.g.: 1 for immediate radio transmission of one character each). Can be
read back using „AT&Z“ as „TX char limit“.
Default setting: 20

S4=x TX time limit (in ms) (2-255) ATS4=5


Time in ms after which there is a radio transmission (independent of how many
characters are ready to be sent). Can be read back using “AT&Z” as “TX time limit”.
Default setting: 5

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 12 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


Cmd Description Permissible values Example

S5=x Escape character (ASCII character) ATS5=+


Choice of character to be used for the escape sequence. Entered as an ASCII
character, “+” corresponds to 43 (dec) or 0x2b (it is usually not necessary to change
this).
A new escape character must always be documented, in order to continue to
guarantee access to command mode.
Default setting: “+”

S6=x RF data rate (1-4) ATS6=2


Choice of RF data rate
1 2.4 kbps Frequency spacing at least 25 kHz
2 4.8 kbps Frequency spacing at least 25 kHz
3 9.6 kbps Frequency spacing at least 50 kHz
4 19.2 kbps Frequency spacing at least 100 kHz
The corresponding channel spacing has to be considered by the user.
The channel/frequency table in chapter 2.6.3 applies.
Default setting: 2

S7=x,x ETX character for ETX sequence (0-255) ATS7=13,10


Choice of ETX characters for operating mode 4.
The preset ETX sequence consists of the characters: first byte decimal 13 (0x0D,
corresponds to control character CR) and second byte decimal 10 (0x0A, corresponds
to control character LF). When choosing one or two new ETX characters, enter
decimal values. Can be read back using “AT&Z” as “End delimiter”.
A data packet is sent by radio as soon as an ETX sequence is recognised, or the
character or time limit is exceeded.
Only valid for operating mode 4 with ETX detection enabled (“ATS11”)
Default setting: 13,10

S8=x Number of radio packets (1-254) ATS8=4


Maximum number of packet attempts in operating mode 4 if there is no
acknowledgement of receipt by an ACK. Can be read back using “AT&Z” as “Max. TX
attempts”.
Only valid for operating mode 4!
Refer to chapter 5.3.
Default setting: 3

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 13 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


Cmd Description Permissible values Example

S11=x Mode 4 ETX Enable (0-1) ATS11=1


Enables detection of ETX sequence:
0: No detection, ETX sequence is ignored
1: Enables ETX detection
Only valid for operating mode 4!
Refer to chapter 5.3.
Default setting: 0

S12=x RSSI Output (0-1) ATS12=1


RSSI output in transmission mode
0: no output
1: RSSI output using UART0 (TxD on pin header ST2, Pin 8)
Using three consecutive bytes, a string consisting of a start character as well as the
received signal strength for both the noise floor (empty channel) and the last received
packet are output on UART0.
The received signal strength is formatted as an 8 bit number in two’s complement.
This string is transmitted at the latest once every second or upon reception of a valid
radio frame, whereas every incoming frame will re-start the delay (the next timer-
triggered string is transmitted one second later).
The start character serves for synchronisation and signalling purposes. It can take two
values: ff the transmission is caused by a radio telegram, 0x7F is used, else 0x7E (for
timer triggered transmission). Find below an example for a timer triggered string:
Start character noise floor signal strength
7E 8A AB
Timer triggered -118dBm -85dBm
Regarding information about measurement accuracy, see chapter 5.6.
Default settings: 0

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 14 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


3.2.4 Extended AT-Commands

Cmd Description Permissible values Example

&Cx Target address (0-255) AT&C1


This parameter is used to set the address of the RF modem to which the data is to be
transmitted (target address). Not used in operating mode 2. Can be read back using
“AT&Z” as “Target address”.
Special function only for operating modes 3 and 4:
If the special address 255 is used here, then the module transmits to all other
addresses at the same time (broadcast).
Comment:
The settings become effective on the next transition to radio mode (“ATO”)
The settings are not saved permanently until the command “AT&W” is executed
Default setting: 1

&F Reset factory settings AT&F


With this, all operating parameters are reset to the delivery status (default settings).
These parameters are not saved permanently until the command “AT&W” is executed,
after which they can be made effective by a software or hardware reset.

&Nx Local address (0-255) AT&N1t


With this command, the RF modem’s own address can be set. Not used in operating
mode 2. Can be read back using “AT&Z” as “Local address”.
Special function only for operating modes 3 and 4:
If the special address 255 is used here, then the module also receives all other
addresses at the same time (listening function).
Comment:
The settings become effective on the next transition to radio mode (“ATO”)
The settings are not saved permanently until the command “AT&W” is executed
Default setting: 1

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Cmd Description Permissible values Example

&V Return current operating parameters AT&Vt


With this command, the current operating parameters are shown as follows:
at&v

Local address : 1
Target address : 1
Baud rate : 9600,8,N,1
Flow control : Disabled (0)
Operating mode : Transparent (2)
RF frequency : 869537500 Hz
RF channel : 5
RF data rate : 4.8kbps (1)

OK
&W Save the current operating parameters AT&Wt
With this command, the prior configured operating parameters are saved in the
modules non-volatile memory and will be used afterwards as default parameters after
every software or hardware reset.

&Z Return extended operating parameters AT&Z


With this command, the current extended operating parameters are shown as follows:
at&z

Frequency correction : 0
PA power : 500
Max. retrys : 3
Escape char : +
TX char limit : 20
TX time limit : 5
End delimiter 1st byte : 13
End delimiter 2nd byte : 10

OK

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 16 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


4 Configuration with “AMBER wireless Config Center” (ACC)

Figure 2 Windows-Application ACC

The AMBER module can be configured via RS232 with the ACC PC software. Lines
RxD, TxD, and GND are required for this. In contrast to parameterisation with AT
commands and a terminal program, the RS232 interface parameters set in the module
do not play any role in the communication with ACC.
With the current ACC Version 2.4.0, the firmware of the AMB8355 can be conveniently
updated. However, it is not possible to change the device settings with the help of the
graphical user interface. Use the AT command interface for this instead.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 17 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


5 Description of the RF Data Transmission Modem Modes

5.1 Operating Mode 2, Transparent Transmission, Without Acknowledge and CRC


In this operating mode, the data received from the RS232 port are divided into packets and
transparently transmitted over the radio channel. There is no addressing, error detection or
correction. This mode is therefore suitable for broadcast mode.
In addition to the actual data, only a preamble and information on the packet length is sent. This
is necessary for data transmission through the air, but it is not transmitted when using the
UART port.

5.2 Operating Mode 3, Addressed Transmission, Without Acknowledge, with CRC


Here, information about the receiver and sender of the data packet are transmitted in addition
to the actual user data. If the receiver address does not match the local address (node number)
of the receiving module, then the respective message is rejected.
There is no reply from the receiving module. Packets with errors are lost.
If the recognised target address is 255, the incoming frame is interpreted as a broadcast packet
and utilised. In return, it is possible – by configuring your own module with node number 255 –
to also receive packets that are actually addressed to other stations (listening function).
The data is also given a 16-bit checksum. If a transmission error is detected with it, then the
incoming user data will not be output to the RS232.

5.3 Operating Mode 4, Addressed Transmission, with ACK and Retries


Mode 4 is similar to the functionality of mode 3, but it makes use of additional mechanisms to
increase the transmission security. Every packet received without errors is acknowledged by
the module sending an ACK packet to the originator.
If the sender does not receive an ACK, then the packet is sent again. The maximum number of
retries can be set with the command “ATS8” (see chapter 3.2.3).
In mode 4, the point in time when a packet is sent can not only be determined by a time and
byte limit, but it can also be triggered by the transmission of an ETX sequence (enabled with
the command “ATS11”).
The ETX sequence consists of two bytes at the end of a data packet. By default, the two bytes
are 0x0D and 0x0A (CR and LF). If these characters are detected in the data flow, then the
respective data packet is transmitted by radio immediately. If, however, the time or character
limit is exceeded first, then the packet is transmitted before the ETX sequence is found. If this
is not desired, then both settings must be chosen large enough to avoid this (see S-register 3
and 4).
The ETX characters of the sequence can be changed with “ATS7”.

5.4 Operating Mode 6, Installation Mode for Radio Link Assessment


Using the command „ATM6“, the module is configured for „installation mode“. „AT&W“ will save
this mode permanently.
This operating mode can be used to assess the quality of a radio link. This enables the user to
optimise the antenna position or to determine whether the radio transmission is reliable or not.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 18 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


One module (remote) is configured for operating mode 2,3 or 4 and must not send any data
during the assessment. The second device (local) is set to installation mode using the
command „ATM6&WZ“, its target address has to match the remote devices local address.
Once a second, the local device will now send a radio packet to the remote station which will
respond to this. The result of this packet exchange procedure will be output by the local
module using the serial interface.
The following parameters were output per packet:
OK/NOK If the response from the remote station is received, OK is display,
else NOK
Send:x Number of packet request send by the local device
Lost:x Number of lost packets (no response received)
Noise Remote: -xdBm Estimated signal strength at the remote device (noise floor)
Noise Local: -xdBm Estimated signal strength at the local device (noise floor)
RSSI Remote: -xdBm Estimated signal strength at the remote device (packet request)
RSSI Local: -xdBm Estimated signal strength at the local device (packet response)

Example for a good communication link (no packet loss):


OK Send: 1 Lost: 0 Noise Remote: -122dBm Noise Local: -128dBm RSSI Remote: -93dBm RSSI Local: -97dBm
OK Send: 2 Lost: 0 Noise Remote: -121dBm Noise Local: -117dBm RSSI Remote: -91dBm RSSI Local: -97dBm
OK Send: 3 Lost: 0 Noise Remote: -120dBm Noise Local: -119dBm RSSI Remote: -94dBm RSSI Local: -97dBm
OK Send: 4 Lost: 0 Noise Remote: -119dBm Noise Local: -121dBm RSSI Remote: -91dBm RSSI Local: -97dBm
OK Send: 5 Lost: 0 Noise Remote: -119dBm Noise Local: -118dBm RSSI Remote: -91dBm RSSI Local: -94dBm

Example for a weak communication link (packet loss occurs):


NOK Send: 6 Lost: 1 Noise Remote: - Noise Local: -119dBm RSSI Remote: - RSSI Local: -
NOK Send: 7 Lost: 2 Noise Remote: - Noise Local: -119dBm RSSI Remote: - RSSI Local: -
NOK Send: 8 Lost: 3 Noise Remote: - Noise Local: -120dBm RSSI Remote: - RSSI Local: -
NOK Send: 9 Lost: 4 Noise Remote: - Noise Local: -119dBm RSSI Remote: - RSSI Local: -
NOK Send: 10 Lost: 5 Noise Remote: - Noise Local: -119dBm RSSI Remote: - RSSI Local: -

Regarding information about measurement accuracy, see chapter 5.6.

5.5 Handshake Mode 1, Collision Detection


The module is set into collision detection mode with the command “ATS2=1", “AT&W” stores it
permanently. The function is available after a hardware or software reset. The data flow of the
module is not controlled, like in handshake mode 0.
If the receiver detects a foreign data packet, the RTS line of the module is set to Low for
400 ms and changes back to High if no other data has been received.
If there is a data connection between 2 external devices, then there is continuous data traffic
and RTS stays low for that time. This signal can therefore be used to control serial data flow in
order to avoid collision on the radio channel.

5.6 Information Regarding RSSI Measurement


The RSSI level determined using the commands „ATM6“, „ATS12“ or „AT&L“ will saturate
above a value of about –83 dBm. Therefore, their expressiveness is limited.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 19 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


6 Characteristics of the Radio Link

6.1 Latency
Due to internal data buffering and radio packet assembling, there is a time lag between two
radio modules during the radio transmission of serial data. The delay is dependent on the
operating mode, data rate and quality of the radio link. This effect should be always considered
when using radio data transmission!

Figure 3
Top: RX line of the transmitter, Bottom: TX line of the receiver

6.2 Internal Handling of Data


The module transmits the data received via the RS232 port by radio as soon as at least one of
the following conditions is met:
1. More characters than the character limit set using “ATS3” have been received over the
RS232, or alternatively they are still in the module's internal RS232 receiving buffer
(Default: 20 bytes)
2. The time interval defined as the time limit by “ATS4” at least has passed since the last
character was received via the RS232 (Default: 5 ms)
3. An ETX character sequence was detected (in operating mode 4 with ETX detection
enabled “ATS11=1”)
The condition which is met first determines start of transmission.
The internal reception and transmission buffers for data to and from the RS232 port are each
2048 bytes in size. If the RTS/CTS handshake is used, then there is a stop signal after more
than 2000 bytes are in the buffer. The packet length is adjusted variably depending on the
volume of user data and is a maximum of 255 bytes.
Data flows that are passed to the RS233 may be transmitted by the RF module in fragments,
due to division into RF data packets and can also be output in fragments to the RS232 of the
remote station.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 20 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


7 Dimensioned Drawing

Figure 4 Dimensions

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8 Regulatory Compliance Information

8.1 Important Notice


The use of RF frequencies is limited by national regulations. The AMB8355 has been designed
to comply with the R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC of the European Union (EU).
The AMB8355 can be operated without notification and free of charge in the area of the
European Union. However, according to the R&TTE directive, restrictions (e.g. in terms of duty
cycle or maximum allowed RF power) may apply.

Conformity Assessment of the Final Product


The AMB8355 is a subassembly. It is designed to be embedded into other products (products
incorporating the AMB8355 are henceforward referred to as "final products").
It is the responsibility of the manufacturer of the final product to ensure that the final product is
in compliance with the essential requirements of the European Union's Radio &
Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (R&TTE) directive.
The conformity assessment of the subassembly AMB8355 carried out by AMBER wireless
GmbH does not replace the required conformity assessment of the final product in accordance
to the R&TTE directive!

Exemption Clause
Relevant regulation requirements are subject to change. AMBER wireless GmbH does not
guarantee the accuracy of the before mentioned information. Directives, technical standards,
procedural descriptions and the like may be interpreted differently by the national authorities.
Equally, the national laws and restrictions may vary with the country. In case of doubt or
uncertainty, we recommend that you consult with the authorities or official certification
organizations of the relevant countries. AMBER wireless GmbH is exempt from any
responsibilities or liabilities related to regulatory compliance.

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 22 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010


8.2 Declaration of Conformity

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9 Important notes

9.1 Disclaimer of Liability


AMBER wireless GmbH believes the information contained herein is correct and accurate at the
time of this printing. However, AMBER wireless GmbH reserves the right to change the
technical specifications or functions of its products, or to discontinue the manufacture of any of
its products or to discontinue the support of any of its products, without any written
announcement and urges its customers to ensure, that the information at their disposal is valid.
AMBER wireless GmbH does not assume any responsibility for the use of the described
products, neither does it convey any license under its patent rights, or its other intellectual
property rights, or any third party rights. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure that his
system or his device, in which AMBER wireless products are integrated, complies with all
applicable regulations.

9.2 Trademarks
AMBER wireless® is a registered trademark owned by AMBER wireless GmbH
Windows is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation
All other trademarks, registered trademarks and product names are the sole property of their
respective owners.

9.3 Limitation of Use


AMBER wireless products are not authorised for use in life support appliances, devices, or
other systems where malfunction can reasonably be expected to result in significant personal
injury to the user, or as a critical component in any life support device or system whose failure
to perform can be reasonably expected to cause the failure of the life support device or system,
or to affect its safety or effectiveness. AMBER wireless GmbH customers using or selling these
products for use in such applications do so at their own risk and agree to fully indemnify
AMBER wireless GmbH for any damages resulting from any improper use or sale.
Use of AMBER wireless products commits the user to the terms and conditions set out herein.
Copyright © 2009, AMBER wireless GmbH. All rights reserved.

AMBER wireless GmbH


Albin-Köbis-Straße 18
51147 Köln
Tel. +49 (0) 2203-6991950
Fax +49 (0) 2203-459883
E-Mail info@amber-wireless.de
Internet http://www.amber-wireless.de

AMB8355 manual V2.1 Page 24 of 24 Released: 23.08.2010

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