Panasonic Toughbook Series - User Manual

Personal Computer
Supplementary Instructions
For Panasonic Toughbook computers with CDMA
Panasonic Supplement for CDMA enabled computers.
This product and your Health
This product, like other radio devices, emits radio frequency electromagnetic energy. The level of energy
emitted by this product is similar to the electromagnetic energy emitted by wireless devices like, for
example, mobile phones.
Because this product operates within the guidelines found in radio frequency safety standards and
recommendations, we believe this product is safe for use by consumers. These standards and
recommendations reflect the consensus of the scientific community and result from deliberations of panels
and committees of scientists who continually review and interpret the extensive research literature.
In some situations or environments, the use of this product may be restricted by the proprietor of the
building or responsible representatives of the organization.
These situations may, for example, include:
• Using this product on board of airplanes, or
• In any other environment where the risk of interference to other devices or services is perceived or
identified as harmful.
If you are uncertain of the policy that applies on the use of wireless devices in a specific organization or
environment (e.g. airports), you are encouraged to ask for authorization to use this product prior to turning
on the product.
Regulatory Information
We are not responsible for any radio or television interference caused by unauthorized modification of this
product. The correction of interference caused by such unauthorized modification will be the responsibility
of the user. We and its authorized resellers or distributors are not liable for damage or violation of
government regulations that may arise from failing to comply with these guidelines.
Note
Wireless communications are done via an antenna.
When making a connection via wireless, raise the
antenna (if possible) as shown in the figures.
For optimum safety, it is recommended to keep the
antenna more than 20 cm. from your body.
Antennas

Summary

Information to the User

This Product and Your Health

Discusses RF energy, safety guidelines, and usage restrictions in certain environments.

Regulatory Information

Covers responsibility for interference and compliance with regulations.

Safety Precautions

Introduction

CDMA2000 1 X Services

Explains CDMA technology, 1xRTT, and dial-up data services.

CDMA Service Provider Account

Details the need for a service provider account and initial provisioning.

Installation Instructions for SB555 Watcher

Win2000;XP User Installation

Guides Win2000/XP users on software installation, port tool usage, and initial file setup.

Install Modem Profile

Details the process of adding the SB555 modem profile in Windows Phone & Modem Options.

Running the Watcher Software

Explains how to launch the Watcher application and initiate the activation process.

Adding Connection Profiles

Guides users on creating and configuring connection profiles within the Dial-up Manager.

Using the Watcher Application

Watcher Features and Icons

Explains the functions of the Watcher application and the meaning of its various icons.

System Tray Icon Meanings

Describes the icons displayed in the Windows System Tray by the Watcher application.

LED Indicators and Modem Specifications

LED Indicator Functions

Details the meaning and function of the three LED indicators on the SB555 modem.

SB555 Modem Technical Specs

Provides key technical specifications for the SB555 CDMA modem.

Legal and Compliance

Trademarks and Copyright

Lists registered trademarks and copyright information for the product and software.

Disclaimer of Liability

States limitations of liability for errors, omissions, or discrepancies in the manual.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The Panasonic Toughbook is a personal computer designed for robust use, enhanced with supplementary instructions for models equipped with CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) for wireless communication. This supplement specifically addresses the integration and use of the Sierra Wireless SB555 OEM CDMA modem within Toughbook computers.

Function Description

The core function of the Toughbook, when equipped with the SB555 modem, is to provide high-speed wireless data service, effectively acting as a wireless network card. This enables users to connect to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access corporate networks without the need for physical network cables or phone lines. The SB555 modem operates over CDMA networks, offering a range of connectivity features including high-speed packet data (1xRTT) for Internet connections with data rates up to 153.6 kbps (downlink) and 76.8 kbps (uplink). It also supports circuit-switched (dial-up) data using the earlier CDMA IS-95 specification, allowing data connections to any dial-in service at rates up to 14.4 kbps. Additionally, the modem facilitates SMS (Short Message Service), enabling users to send and receive short text messages.

Usage Features

For optimal wireless communication, users are advised to raise the antenna when making a connection, if possible. The device's wireless communications rely on this antenna.

The SB555 modem requires an account with a CDMA service provider, as each SB555 is provisioned at the factory for a specific provider, determining the radio channels and services available. The activation process involves both the service provider and configuration of the SB555 modem.

The device incorporates safety precautions for various environments. In hospitals or other health care facilities, users must observe restrictions on mobile use and switch off the CDMA modem if instructed, as medical equipment can be sensitive to RF energy. Cardiac pacemakers, other implanted medical equipment, and hearing aids can be affected by interference, so pacemaker patients should keep the modem away from their device when it is on.

Before boarding an aircraft, the Personal Computer or Handheld Computer incorporating the CDMA modem must be switched off to prevent interference with communication systems. Operation of wireless appliances on an aircraft is forbidden.

The modem should not be operated in the presence of flammable gases or fumes. It must be switched off near petrol stations, fuel depots, chemical plants, or during blasting operations, as electrical equipment can pose a safety hazard in potentially explosive atmospheres.

The device transmits and receives radio frequency energy when switched on, and interference can occur if used near inadequately shielded equipment like TV sets, radios, or other computers. Users must follow special regulations and switch off the modem wherever forbidden or when interference or danger is suspected.

Road safety is emphasized, with a strong recommendation not to use the CDMA modem while driving. The computer should not be placed in an area where it could cause personal injury to the driver or passengers, such as over an airbag or in its deployment vicinity. It is recommended to stow the unit in the trunk or a secure stowage area while driving.

It is important to note that due to reliance on radio signals and cellular networks, the modem cannot guarantee connection in all conditions. Therefore, it should not be solely relied upon for essential communications, such as emergency calls. To make or receive calls, the modem must be switched on and within a service area with adequate cellular signal strength. Some networks may restrict emergency calls if certain network services or phone features (e.g., lock functions, fixed dialing) are active, requiring deactivation of these features. Some networks also require a valid SIM card to be properly inserted.

Maintenance Features

The Watcher application is a key maintenance and monitoring tool for the SB555 modem and CDMA network. It allows users to:

• Determine signal strength, roaming status, 1X high-speed data availability, and other network connection parameters.
• Initiate data calls.
• View call statistics.
• Receive and send SMS messages.
• Customize features and options.

The Watcher provides visual indicators for various statuses:

• Signal Strength: Bars indicate radio signal intensity, with more bars signifying stronger signals (up to five bars). Dimmed bars or a crossed-out antenna icon indicate no connection, possibly due to being outside coverage, weak signal, network/account issues, or damaged antenna.
• 1X Indicator: Shows if 1xRTT is available in the area.
• Roaming Status: Indicates if the user is roaming on a network other than their own. A gray indicator means within the local service provider's coverage, a solid black indicator means in a "preferred" roaming area, and a blinking indicator means in a CDMA network but not a "preferred" roaming area. Roaming charges may apply and vary.
• Data Call Indicators: Icons show if a circuit-switched data call or a high-speed (1X) packet data call is in progress.
• Error Indicator: A fatal error icon indicates the Watcher software cannot communicate with the SB555 modem, suggesting a restart of Watcher may resolve the issue.
• SMS Message Indicator: Shows unread messages, with a blinking icon for urgent or important messages.
• Voice Mail Indicator: Shows unheard voice messages, allowing users to dial their voice messaging system by double-clicking the icon.
• Missed Call Indicator: Appears if an incoming call was not answered.
• Auto-Answer Indicator: Shows if Watcher is set to automatically answer incoming calls.
• Headset Indicator: Shows if a headset is connected to the SB555 modem.
• Silent Ring Indicator: Shows if the silent ring feature is enabled (no sound for incoming calls).
• Privacy Indicator: Shows if encryption is in use on voice calls, if available on the network, preventing monitoring.

The Watcher also displays an icon in the Windows System Tray, providing quick status updates on connection, voice mail, SMS messages, or missed calls.

The Toughbook features a power switch for the integrated SB555 modem, allowing users to power it on and off. Next to this switch are three LED indicators:

• Power Indicator: Solid green indicates the SB555 modem is powered on.
• Message Indicator: Blinking amber indicates an incoming call or message. Solid amber indicates a hardware problem with the modem.
• Antenna Indicator: Blinking green indicates the SB555 modem is searching for a CDMA network. Solid green indicates the SB555 modem has registered to a CDMA network.

Panasonic Toughbook Series Specifications

General

Processor	Intel Core i5 or i7 (varies by model)
Operating System	Windows 10 or 11 (various editions)
Durability	MIL-STD-810H certified
Connectivity	Optional 4G LTE or 5G
Ports	HDMI, Ethernet (varies by model)
Water and Dust Resistance	IP53 or IP65 (varies by model)
Weight	Varies by model (3.3 lbs to 8.5 lbs)