Wireless Edge Module MC*5 for Arduino board Tutorial

The MC*5 is the first GSM/GPRS radio module featuring EDGE technology, which is currently the fastest data transfer standard in worldwide GSM networks. EDGE ("Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution") allows downloads and streaming of data-intensive multimedia files, exchange of email attachments and fast internet or intranet access. Thanks to EDGE, users can easily conduct their business activities on the Internet or on the company intranet using their smartphone, PDA or laptop PC — In fact, this can be done three times faster than when using GPRS; EDGE theoretically has a maximum bit rate of **4 kbps compared to GPRS with **1 kbps.

As GSM evolves in the direction of UMTS, the EDGE standard's role is growing increasingly important. As a supplement or alternative to UMTS, it offers high data transfer rates and a significantly better utilization of network capacity without any additional investments in the existing infrastructure being necessary. While the UMTS infrastructure is still being developed, EDGE already ensures a global coverage even in rural areas. In areas where there is still no UMTS infrastructure, EDGE can fill regional gaps during the transition period until UMTS is launched. In addition, EDGE offers mobile network operators without a UMTS license a cost-effective high-speed alternative.

Whether on private or business trips, continental borders are no longer a hindrance for individuals, IT or mobile telecommunications. This has only been the case since PCMCIA cards, GSM/GPRS modems, and cell phones were equipped with triband technology. In order to fully utilize the fast EDGE technology in every area of the world, mobile phones and mobile computers of the next generation need an additional frequency range. The MC*5 is therefore equipped with quadband GSM, which means it can be used in all existing GSM networks. Fast data transfer via EDGE is thus available to continent hoppers everywhere and via the best possible route.

Thanks to the integrated RIL driver, the MC*5 is especially suited for smartphones and PDAs based on the Microsoft © Windows Mobile™ Operating system. This ensures optimal communication between the operating system and the module.

The MC*5 includes a USB connection allowing plug and play, which is particularly convenient when using GSM/GPRS modems. Further benefits of integrating the module into all mobile communication solutions include its extremely compact size of *4 X *5 X 3.5 mm, the one-sided layout of the printed circuit board's components, and its light weight of less than *0 grams.

In addition, the MC*5 provides the approvals necessary for worldwide use free of charge. Thus, it meets requirements in accordance with R&TTE, FCC, IC, UL, GCF, and PTCRB as well as any country-specific requirements, which network providers may have. This makes it possible for manufacturers to reduce their application development costs as well as their total cost of ownership. The MC*5 facilitates a faster launch of mobile computing applications and smartphones on the world market.

And last but not least, the MC*5 is lead-free, in accordance with the EU Directive on the Restriction of Specific Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS).

The main features of the MC*5 include:

Quadband GSM (**0/**0/***0/***0 MHz)
EDGE (E-GPRS) Multislot Class *0
>GPRS Class *2
RIL driver for Microsoft © Windows Mobile ™ -based devices
Fully compatible with USB 2.0 full speed
Support from Siemens will continue following the purchase of your product. Our comprehensive support will assist you in all product design matters, beginning with the design phase via questions about EDGE technology all the way through to product approval.