6 Configuration commands - for Falcom STEPP

This document is available at HTTP://WWW.FALCOM.DE/ . 

Version 1.8.14 

Falcom STEPP 

STEPPconfig Instructions 

STEPP-STARTERKIT Instructions

STEPPCONFIG VERSION 1.8.14 

Index of contents 

0 OVERVIEW OF DOCUMENT ...............................................6 

1 THE STEPP STARTERKIT .............................................8 

1.1 OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................................... 8 

1.2 START-UP ..................................................................................................................................... 10 

1.3 INSTALLING THE STEPP-STARTERKIT ..................................................................................... 13 

2 OVERVIEW - FALCOM STEPPCONFIG – 

EVALUATION AND CONFIGURATION 

SOFTWARE .....................................................................17 

2.1 VERSION HISTORY........................................................................................................................ 18 

2.1.1 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware version 1.8.14............................................................. 18 

2.1.2 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware version 1.6.10............................................................. 18 

2.1.3 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware version 1.6.5............................................................... 19 

2.1.4 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.6.2 ........................................................................... 19 

2.1.5 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.4.5 ........................................................................... 20 

2.1.6 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.4 .............................................................................. 20 

3 BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE SMS AND NMEA 

COMMANDS....................................................................23 

4 CONFIGURATION INSTRUCTIONS..........................27 

4.1 STARTDISPLAY ............................................................................................................................. 27 

4.2 MENU BAR.................................................................................................................................... 28 

4.2.1 Settings Menu.............................................................................................................................. 28 

4.2.1.1 Settings - CARS ............................................................................................................................................ 29 

4.2.1.2 Settings - COMport and MapSoftware ......................................................................................................... 30 

4.2.1.3 Reinitializing GSM modem........................................................................................................................... 31 

4.2.2 Starting the Map software............................................................................................................ 31 

4.2.3 Service Mode Menu..................................................................................................................... 32 

4.2.3.1 Configuration of Device Parameters............................................................................................................ 32 

4.2.3.1.1 General parameters (see image 9) ................................................................................................................ 34 

4.2.3.1.2 Alarm key configuration .............................................................................................................................. 36 

4.2.3.1.3 GPS History configuration ........................................................................................................................... 38 

4.2.3.1.4 Analogue imputs configuration () .................................................................................................................. 39 

4.2.3.1.5 Configure Geo-fencing................................................................................................................................. 41 

4.2.3.2 Configure GPS protocols ............................................................................................................................. 45 

4.2.3.3 Transmit device status ON/OFF................................................................................................................... 46 

4.2.3.4 Transmit device status OFF ......................................................................................................................... 46 

4.2.3.5 Logging (new item using STEPPConfig 1.03 and greater version).............................................................. 46 

4.2.3.6 CheckSum Calculator................................................................................................................................... 46 

4.2.3.7 Service Mode OFF ....................................................................................................................................... 47 

4.3 MAIN WINDOW ............................................................................................................................. 47 

4.3.1 Remote Window .......................................................................................................................... 49 

4.3.1.1 Data line....................................................................................................................................................... 49 

4.3.1.2 Voice line...................................................................................................................................................... 49 

4.3.1.2.1 Voice call ..................................................................................................................................................... 50 

4.3.1.2.2 Alarm call..................................................................................................................................................... 50 

4.3.1.3 Device event status ON/OFF........................................................................................................................ 50 

4.3.1.4 GSM event status ON/OFF........................................................................................................................... 50 

4.3.2 SMS window ............................................................................................................................... 51 

4.3.2.1 Selection box – for predefined configuration commands (select command)................................................. 52 

4.3.2.2 SMS Position request ................................................................................................................................... 53 

4.3.2.2.1 To start a position request via SMS, please follow the steps below: ............................................................ 53 

4.3.2.2.2 SMS Remote configuration with predefined commands .............................................................................. 53 

This confidential document is the property of FALCOM GmbH and may not be copied or circulated without permission. 

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4.3.2.3 Examples of configuration commands.......................................................................................................... 54 

4.3.3 Status window.............................................................................................................................. 55 

4.3.4 History window ........................................................................................................................... 56 

4.3.5 Send History Tool........................................................................................................................ 58 

4.3.6 Alarms window............................................................................................................................ 60 

4.3.7 Satellites window......................................................................................................................... 61 

4.3.8 Info window................................................................................................................................. 62 

4.3.9 Audio channels ............................................................................................................................ 64 

4.3.9.1 Voice channel............................................................................................................................................... 65 

4.3.9.2 Alarm channel .............................................................................................................................................. 65 

5 TRACKING ......................................................................66 

5.1 HISTORY FUNCTION...................................................................................................................... 66 

5.1.1.1 Filter Settings............................................................................................................................................... 67 

5.1.2 Configuration examples............................................................................................................... 67 

5.1.2.1 How to download the history records........................................................................................................... 70 

5.1.2.1.1 NMEA and Binary history data.................................................................................................................... 71 

6 CONFIGURATION COMMANDS - FOR 

FALCOM STEPP.............................................................72 

6.1 SMS AND PSRF COMMAND SYNTAX ........................................................................................... 73 

6.1.1 SMS Command syntax ................................................................................................................ 73 

6.1.1.1 SMS Command structure.............................................................................................................................. 73 

6.1.2 NMEA Messages syntax.............................................................................................................. 74 

6.1.2.1 NMEA messages improved structure............................................................................................................ 75 

6.1.3 Respond message structure.......................................................................................................... 76 

6.1.4 Combining commands on the same command line ..................................................................... 77 

6.2 NMEA MESSAGES TRANSMITTED/SELECTED BY/TO STEPP DEVICE ............................................ 77 

6.2.1 Description of NMEA output messages ...................................................................................... 77 

6.3 SUPPORTED PARAMETER .............................................................................................................. 82 

6.3.1 NAME ......................................................................................................................................... 82 

6.3.2 PIN............................................................................................................................................... 83 

6.3.3 PWD ............................................................................................................................................ 83 

6.3.4 RING ........................................................................................................................................... 84 

6.3.5 PORT.............................................................................................................................. 85 

6.3.6 KEY................................................................................................................................ 86 

6.3.7 IN.................................................................................................................................... 87 

6.3.8 TEL ................................................................................................................................ 88 

6.3.9 VOL............................................................................................................................................. 89 

6.3.10 LOG............................................................................................................................................. 90 

6.3.11 ACK () .......................................................................................................................................... 91 

6.3.12 GPSRESET () ............................................................................................................................... 91 

6.3.13 GSMRESET () .............................................................................................................................. 92 

6.3.14 GSMWRST () ............................................................................................................................... 93 

6.3.15 MSG ............................................................................................................................................ 93 

6.3.16 IGN () ............................................................................................................................................ 95 

6.3.17 GEOMSG .................................................................................................................................... 97 

6.3.18 GEO () ............................................................................................................................. 98 

6.3.19 DEL ............................................................................................................................................. 99 

6.4 SMS CONFIGURATION COMMANDS– SUPPORTED FROM FIRMWARE 1.6.2 .................................. 100 

6.4.1 &CNF [PWD] UNIT NAME=VALUE[:NAME=VALUE] Write device configuration .......... 101 

6.4.2 &CNF [PWD] PASS Define a password for SMS configuration.............................................. 103 

6.4.3 &REQ [PWD] POS [n] Request vehicle position with defined period...................................... 103 

6.4.4 &REQ [PWD] POS () Configure and request vehicle position with defined period ................... 104 

6.4.5 &REQ [PWD] CNF Read the configuration of device.............................................................. 105 

6.4.6 &REQ [PWD] CONNECT Initiate a return call as a data call ................................................. 106 

6.4.7 &REQ [PWD] PHONE [phone] Initiate a listen or voice call...................................... 106 


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6.4.8 &REQ [PWD] START [latitiude],[longitude] Request vehicle position every defined 

period () ....................................................................................................................................... 107 

6.4.9 &CNF [PWD] WATCH [radious],[text] () Set a master region ................................................. 107 

6.5 NMEA COMMANDS – SUPPORTED FROM FIRMWARE 1.6.2 AND GREATER ................................. 110 

6.5.1 $PSRF108,NAME=VALUE[:NAME=VALUE] Write device configuration........................... 110 

6.5.2 $PSRF103,[msg],00,[rate],01[*CkSum] Select protocols to be sent to.................. 112 

6.5.3 $PSRF109,[data][*ChSum] Download the history data......................................... 113 

6.6 GPIOP FORMAT PROTOCOL........................................................................................................ 113 

6.7 DESCRIPTION OF THE BINARY FORMAT ....................................................................................... 115 

6.7.1 Convert the GPIO hexadecimal value to binarry format ........................................................... 116 

6.8 VEHICLE LOCATION ................................................................................................................... 117 

6.9 FALCOM STEPP – HELP WITH OCCURRING ERRORS................................................................... 118 

7 HOW TO UPDATE THE NEW FIRMWARE INTO 

THE STEPP ....................................................................120 

8 APPENDIX A..................................................................122 

8.1 HOW TO CONVERT THE COORDINATES........................................................................................ 122 

8.1.1 What to do if the defined password of device fails ? ................................................................. 122 

8.1.2 Default settings of the firmware 1.6.5 ....................................................................................... 123 


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Version history: 

Version 

number 

Author Changes 

1.00 Fadil Beqiri - Initial version 

1.01 Fadil Beqiri - Connection illustration (Image 26) optimize. 

1.02 Saleh Mohamad - Command on page 67 corrected 

- Added new chapter “4.2.3.1.4 Analogue imputs configuration”. 

- Added new SMS commands (POS polling positions and START 

reset GPS receiver and GSM engine). 

1.2 RC3 Fadil Beqiri 

- 

- 

The parameter LOG corrected 

The parameter KEY corrected (added) 

- The description of chapter 6.4.7 corrected. 

- 

- 

The received alarm SMS from is corrected (added) 

On the chapter 6.1.2 the command $PSRF109 is corrected. 

- New feature for Yellow LED added 

- New chapter “Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.4 “ 

included new SMS commands added. 

- “Important item “ to “Service Mode” menu added. 

- New NOTE added 

- Chapters 4.1, 4.2.1, 4.2.3, 4.2.3.2, 4.3 updated 

- An image description (of each bit) of $GPIOP protocol added 

- “Logging” menu item is added instead of “Switch ON 

Development Console”, which is removed. 

- In the chapter 3.3.1.4, the example of modem profile the 

parameters Register Status and GSM-Status updated. 

- Figures 9, 10, 12 and 18.b updated. 

1.4 Fadil Beqiri 

- 

- 

Chaper 4.3.4 History window updated, new figure added. 

Pin 14 in Image 27 added. 

- In the chapter 4.2 page 63, Please note updated, new feature for 

password encryption added. 

- New SMS parameter “MSG“added. 

- Chapter 6.4.7 updated. 

- It is possible to transfer data to other modem/mobile using the 

command described in chapter 6.4.6. 

- An Example is added in the received alarm SMS from STEPP. 

- A simple Public procedure to calculate the Checksum is 

added. 

- The “SIM” with corresponding solution on page 74 added. 

- New chapter “How to update the new firmware into the 

STEPP“ is added. 

1.4.1 Fadil Beqiri 

- The SMS configuration parameter “IN” for Analogue 

Inputs added. 

- New chapter 2.1.4 added (periodically self test on the Falcom 

STEPP firmware Ver. 1.4.5 implemented). 

- New chapter 3 added (Brief description of supported SMS and 


- 

PSRF commands) 

The NMEA command $PSRF107 disabled. (!!!! Please do not 

try to perform this command.) 

- The chapter 6.4.1 updated. The SMS parameters MSG and the 

PSRF command in the chapter 6.5.1 updated. 


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- Falcom released a new configuration software (see page 5). 

- Received string above the latest valid GPS position updated 

- New chapter 4.2.3.1.5 “Configure Geo-fencing” added. 

Possibility to define one or more geographically limited areas. 

- The NMEA messages can also be sent via SMS. 

- Chapter 8.1 “How to convert the coordinates” added. 

- Document layout optemized. 

- The GEOMSG parameter updated 

- The description on chapter 6.4.2 corrected and new example 

added. 

- The new parameter GEOMSG configures the Geofencing’s 

periodical messages. 

- New SMS command added IGN(), monitoring an abandoned 

vehicle) 

- The SMS command in chapter 6.4.2 corrected and new example 

added 

- The SMS command &CNF UNIT MSG corrected to the 

GEOMSG configuration parameter for geo-fencing only. 

- On chapter 6 an important note added. 

- The command described in chapter 6.4.1 improved. 

- New firmware 1.6.2 released. New features added (chapter 

2.1.4). 

- Dokumentation layout improved, as well as all SMS commands 

and NMEA messages updated (their description is improved). 

- Due to the new released firmware version 1.6.5 the following 

chapters are added/updated; chapter 2.1.3 added and 6.4.9 

updated. 

- Chapter 8.1.2 added (default settings of firmware 1.6.5) 

- New chapter 2.1.2 added (due to the new parameter 

GSMWRST() implemented in the firmware 1.6.10, the GSM 

engine resets itself regularly in amount of time). 

- Important 1 notice added. 

- New chapter 2.1.1 added (due to the firmware 1.8.14, some 

features improved). 

- A simple calculation is added to get the actual voltage of the 

Analogue input 1 and 2 that the data binary represents. 


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0 Overview of Document 

Falcom STEPP is a Plug & Play GSM/GPS device, which contains a software 

application that can be configured. The concept of the device is based on a 

simple implementation for a wide range of applications with low costs and high 

flexibility. In particular it offers a speedy development of systems solutions 

within the fields of: 

- Fleet management with GPS-location 

- Vehicle security 

At the core of the above-mentioned system solutions is a classical set-up with 

client-server architecture. In this scenario, Falcom STEPP represents the socalled 

mobile client (see image 1). 

The integration of Falcom STEPP requires a clear definition: 

- The characteristics of the integrated software solution of Falcom 

STEPP as a client of the user solution, and the possibilities for 

configuration. 

- The instruction command for communicating with the client as the 

main part of the server application 

- The hardware interfaces and the respective, necessary installation 

guidelines. This part ensures the physical integration of the device 

to the target surroundings. 

This document seeks to describe the Falcom STEPP firmware and its 

possibilities for configuration, including the description of the configuration 

tools (STEPPconfig). 

Furthermore, in this document you will find a detailed description of the 

instruction command, providing a foundation for the set-up of own server 

applications for communicating with the mobile client (Falcom STEPP). 

The hardware interfaces and the respective installation guidelines are described 

in a separate document (“stepp_x.xx_hw.pdf”), which can be downloaded from 

Falcom’s Homepage (www.falcom.de). 

This software description reflects Falcom STEPP’s firmware version 1.0. By 

using a Falcom SWING it was developed as a communication device (GSM 

Modem). However, it can be used with other software compatible GSM 

modems such as Falcom A2D-1 and Falcom TANGO. 

In chapter 1 “STEPP STARTERKIT” you’ll find a description of the 

supplied hardware – components which will support you during the evaluation 

and configuration of Falcom STEPP. 

The STARTERKIT contains all hardware and software components required 

for an initial start-up and configuration of Falcom STEPP. 

All the essential steps for the start-up of Falcom STEPP with the help of the 

STARTERKIT are described in detail. 


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Chapter 2 “Overview – Falcom STEPPconfig – Evaluation and 

Configuration Software” explains, with the help of examples, how to 

handle the software. In chapter 2 to 4, all components of the software, 

including information about configuration options, as well as the required 

instruction command for the interchangeable client/server communication are 

described. In image 1 you can see an example of a practical application. 

Image 1: Simplified presentation of the AVL client-server architecture. (Falcom offers a 

wide variety of GSM modems for enabling communication on the server 

side). 

GSM modem used on the server side, Falcom recommends: 

� Falcom SWING-SET 

� Falcom TANGO 

Or other software compatible devices 

For more technical details on Falcom products, go to www.falcom.de. 

NEW INFORMATION: 

The Falcom GmbH released a new evaluation and configuration software 

(Falcom Stepp Configurator 2.0) which operates on both Microsoft Windows 

systems (such as Windows95®, Windows98®, Windows2000® and 

WindowsXP®) and GNU/Linux systems. This software could not be available 

on the Falcom website due to its big size. This software and other configuration 

tools with corresponding user manual will be delivered to the end customer on a 

Compact Disc (CD). Please contact your vendor for more information. 

The Falcom Stepp Configurator user’s manual is also available for free 

download on the Falcom’s Homepage: 

�www.falcom.de>downloads>manual>FalocmSTEPP>SteppConfig_2.1.pdf 


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1 The STEPP STARTERKIT 

1.1 Overview 

Image 2 gives an overview of the variety of components contained in Falcom’s 

STEPP-STARTERKIT: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Falcom STEPP device with built-in bracket 

GSM/GPS antenna 

AC/DC adapter (European standard 220 AC / 12V DC) 

Evaluation box 

16-pin configuration cable with MOLEX plug connection 

Cable with 15-pin AMP and DB15 plug connection 

Audio cable 

1,5m power cable 

Modem cable set with DB9 plug connection 

Handsfree loudspeaker and microphone 

CD with 

- Configuration software STEPPconfig 

- Hardware description 

- Software description 

Image 2: Scope of items in STEPP-STARTERKIT. 


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The evaluation box has the following connection ports (see image 3): 

• Input for power supply (10 to 32V DC) 

• DB9 serial interface for PC COM Port 

• Audio cable with DB15 plug connection to connect with 15-pin AMP 

connector of STEPP Terminal 

• Configuration cable with 16-pin Molex connection to connect with 16-pin 

Molex Connector of STEPP Terminal 

• 8-pin RJ45 audio (MIC N1 and MIC P1, see hardware description 

(“stepp_x.xx_hw.pdf ”) OUTPUT for alarm channel (Chapter 3.3.9) 

• MIC/SPK INPUT/OUTPUT (SPK2 and MIC2, see hardware description 

(“stepp_x.xx_hw.pdf”) – connections for voice channel 

• 4 LEDs to signalise the status of the digital outputs 1 to 4 of the STEPP 

Terminals 

• 9 switches to test the digital inputs 1 to 4, as well as IGN (ignition) and to 

switch ON/OFF various device functions such as V+, ACCU OFF, MIC 

intern and BOOT on the STEPP Terminal (see “stepp_x.xx_hw.pdf” for 

detailed information). 

• Potentiometer to test analogue inputs 1 and 2. 

• MIC 1 INPUT alarm microphone. 

Image 3: Connections of evaluation box 

Descriptions on the output pins and the hardware of the connections on the 

STEPP terminal are provided in “stepp_x.xx_hw.pdf” chapter “Hardware 

Interfaces”. 


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Before installing STARTERKIT, please ensure that your PC fulfills the 

following criteria: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

1.2 Start-up 

Pentium 133-64 MB RAM. 

Microsoft Windows 9x, Windows 2000. 

Minimum of 3 free serial COM Ports. 

64 MB memory capacity 

CD-ROM drive 

10 Mb free hard drive capacity 

Keyboard / Mouse. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Insert the CD in the CD drive. 

Start the installation by double-clicking on “setup.exe”. 

To terminate the installation, click on [Cancel]. 

To go back to the previous window, click on [Previous]. 

Click on [Next] to continue the installation (see image below) 


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• 

• 

• 

Click on [Next] to continue the installation (see image below) 

Click on [Next] again. 

Enter the installation path in the field Folder. 

Use [Browse...] to select a path. 

To terminate the installation, click on Cancel 

To go to the previous window, click on [Previous] (see image below). 

The software is installed under the defined path. 

Hint: If you click on the Cancel button, and you confirm the 

subsequent message with Yes, the installation will be 

terminated. No data will be stored on your PC’s hard-drive, 

and you will have to start the installation anew. 


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• 

• 

The following image shows how you are informed about the progress of the 

installation. 

To finalise the installation, click on [Close]. 


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1.3 Installing the STEPP-STARTERKIT 

Installation steps: 

1. Connect the GPS antenna (Fakra SMB female plug) with the antenna 

connection (Fakra SMB male plug) from Falcom STEPP. 

2. Connect the GSM antenna (Fakra SMB female plug) with the antenna 

connection (Fakra SMB male plug) from Falcom STEPP. 

3. Place the SIM card into the cardholder and insert into the SIM card reader. 

Hint: To remove the SIM card, push the button on the SIM card reader 

with a pointed object, as shown below. 

Important: The SIM card must be inserted and removed when 

the device is switched off. 


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4. Connect the AMP 15-pin plug connector with the 15-pin AMP connection 

point on Falcom STEPP. 

5. Connect the 15-pin serial plug with the 15-pin COM port of the EVAL- 

BOARD. 

The green LED at the RJ45 connection will begin to glow. 

This LED signals the tension of Falcom STEPP’s internal storage battery. 

6. Connect the 16-pin plug connector to the 16-pin MOLEX connection 

point on Falcom STEPP. 

7. Connect the other end of the MOLEX cable with the 16-pin MOLEX 

connection point on the EVAL-BOARD. 


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8. Connect the 9-pin serial plug to COM1 or COM2 on your PC (or to another 

free serial interface port). 

9. Connect the other end of the 9-pin serial cable to the 9-pin serial interface 

port on the EVAL-BOARD. 

10. Connect the loud speaker to the SPK socket (Audio 2) and the microphone 

to the MIC socket (Audio 2) on the EVAL-BOARD. 

11. Connect the AC/DC adapter (power supply unit) with the DC V+ 

connection point (10...32 VDC) on the EVAL-BOARD 


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12. Plug the AC/DC adapter into the wall socket (230V AC) 

The following image shows the complete installation of Falcom STEPP and the 

accompanying EVAL-BOARD. 

• Switch the switches ACCU OFF, V+ and IGN on 

The yellow LED at the RJ45 connection begins to glow. The GPS and 

GSM LEDs on Falcom STEPP begin to flash when valid GPS protocols 

are available (yellow LED), and when the Falcom STEPP is logged into 

the network (green LED). 

If the Yellow LED begins to flash (4 sec. interval), it indicates that an error 

is detected whilst initializing the GSM engine (i.e. no SIM card inserted, 

the entered PIN is incorrect or the terminal is not ready for operation). 

The functionality of the LEDs is described in the chapter “Functional 

description” of the “stepp_x.xx_hw.pdf” document. 

• Start the STEPP-config Evaluation and Configuration tool now by doubleclicking 

on the Falcom STEPP V1.xx icon, which is displayed on your 

desktop. 


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2 Overview - Falcom STEPPconfig – Evaluation and 

Configuration Software 

The STEPPconfig – Evaluation and Configuration Software (in future referred 

to as STEPPconfig) is an evaluation and configuration software, which 

operates with Windows95®, Windows98®, Windows2000® and 

WindowsXP®. 

On the one hand it allows a quick and uncomplicated initial configuration from 

a Falcom STEPP which is directly connected to the serial port. On the other 

hand it allows for communication with e.g. a Falcom STEPP installed in a 

vehicle. 

With STEPPconfig it is possible to request GPS position data, to trigger circuit 

activities, to receive alarm and status reports, as well as to execute a range of 

remote configurations. 

Prerequisite is the connection of a suitable GSM modem, such as the Falcom 

SWING or a software compatible device (Falcom TANGO, Falcom A2D-1). 

Important note: 

All program settings are saved in the “FalcomSTEPP.ini” file, which is 

located in the installation path of the STEPPconfig software, and where 

they also can be modified if necessary. However, it is advisable to make 

the required settings via the various menus of the STEPPconfig software. 

The configuration possibilities mainly cover the following areas: 

1. GPS 

• History function 

− Configuration of a variety of combinations of time, covered road 

distance and speed as a condition for storing position data in the 

internal history memory, as well as the option of remotely 

retrieving the history. 

• 

− 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

− 

GPS polling (SMS, data calls) 

SMS remote request of deactivated Falcom STEPP (status of 

alarms received and sent, start SMS position request). 

Start data calls directly to the GPS position surveillance of a 

Falcom STEPP. 

2. Configuration of Alarm I/O’s 

4 inputs 

2 analogue inputs 

4 outputs 

Control of board tension (vehicle battery) 

Special input ignition (IGN) (clip 15 at the ignition lock) 


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2.1 Version History 

2.1.1 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware version 1.8.14 

All commands and parameters having the symbol ( i ) are available only in the 

Firmware 1.8.14 and greater versions. 

The following features are improved: 

��This firmware version is based on the SiRF firmware version 2.3.2, 

while earlier versions were based on the SiRF firmware 2.2.0. 

��The receiving SMS messages, when the vehicle enters or leaves the 

user-defined master region (either by IGN() or WATCH settings), 

have been changed. Changes are noted to both parameters in the Notes 

descriptions. 

��The STEPP device will store the latest valid GPS fix into the FLASH 

memory. After the GPS engine initiates a reset and during the restart 

time no GPS-fix is being obtained, all values included in the GPRMC 

protocol are set to 0. When the user requests the device configuration 

setting (by using either &REQ CNF or $PSRF108,CNF) and the 

current position of the device is invalid, the device holds the latest 

stored valid GPSFIX (longitude, latitude and altitude) and sends it to 

the message sender in a string formatted as shown below. 

Additionally, the validity status indicator in capital letter inside the 

$GPRMC and $GPGLL protocols (on the serial interface) will be 

switched from A to V –letter, instead of A to S –letter implemented in 

the earlier versions. 

Example: 

Send: 

&REQ CNF // The user request of configuration was at 

12:39:55. 

Receive: 

….. 

GPSFIX=5040.4014,01058.8657,280103 

….. 

In event of alarms, the STEPP sends to the target phone number the 

current received GPS data. If this data (the current GPS data) is invalid, 

the STEPP device does not hold the latest stored valid data (GPSFIX) 

from the FLASH to send it to the target phone number. 


All commands and parameters having the symbol ( h ) are available only in the 

Firmware 1.6.10 and greater versions. 

The following features are improved and new parameters are added: 

��The new GSMWRST() parameter has the ability to reset the GSM 

engine of STEPP device in interval of times. The reset occurs when 

the specified amount of time, determined by the value, has passed and 

no GSM activities are available at this time. 

��The GSMCALL parameter is no more available for use, it is removed. 


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��The description of the &REQ [PWD] POS [n] parameter updated. If 

the value of this parameter is omitted, the position (GPGGA and 

GPRMC) is sent once and the MSG parameter remains unmodified. If 

the value of this parameter is set to 0, the system responds OK and it 

stops sending the periodic messages (the MSG parameter gets 

modified). 


The firmware of Falcom STEPP is constantly being improved and new features 

are added. All commands and parameters having the symbol ( g ) are available 

only in the Firmware 1.6.5 and greater versions. 

The following features are improved and new parameters are added: 

� The parameter GPSRESET initiates a Cold start (feature of the previous 

firmware versions) after the user-specified time, if the GPS within that 

time in minutes no GPS-fix is obtained. The firmware 1.6.5 and greater 

versions initiate a Hotstart (as a default setting) instead of a Cold start 

that improves the performance of unit. The default setting of the GPS 

startup mode can also be manually changed. To change the default 

setting the second parameter can be specified to: C, W 

and H corresponding to the Coldstart, Warmstart and Hotstart 

respectively. However, note that the GEOMSG can be sent without 

specifying the . See also the GEOMSG parameter 

description. 

� To specify a Master region at first you have to specify via the GEOMSG 

parameter the phone number where the message (text specified on the 

&CNF WATCH) has to be sent and then the &CNF WATCH with userspecified 

value can be sent to the target STEPP device. In the firmware 

1.6.5 and greater versions, the GEOMSG parameter settings are built-in 

the &CNF WATCH as one line (command). The purpose of this 

command is to save the end user time and simplify the configuration of a 

Master region. Once a Master region is configured, all user-defined 

parameter are performed and implemented. If the Master region is 

cleared (by sending the command &CNF WATCH 0), it does not mean 

that the GEOMSG settings will automatically be cleared. The GEOMSG 

settings can only be cleared separately, if these settings are no more 

required by the user (since these settings may still be used for other 

geofencing regions), by sending the command (&CNF UNIT GEOMSG) 

without parameter entry to the target device. See also the description in 

chapter 6.4.9. 

2.1.4 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.6.2 

The following description is based on the Falcom STEPP operating with 

Firmware 1.6.2. The following features of the Falcom STEPP operating with 

firmware 1.6.2 are improved. 

� Some debug messages inside GSM and history code source are 

removed. 


Page 19


� As known, the STEPP device does not support other lines on the serial 

interface except RX and TX one. Due to this lack the timing for '+++' 

escape sequence has been changed. To type the '+++' characters, please 

use a time delay of 0.5 sec. between each enter of '+' characters. 

� Fixed coordinates initialisation for 'S'tored navigation 

Except the second item above, no other user configuration is required. These 

features will internally be performed. 

2.1.5 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.4.5 

The following description is based on the Falcom STEPP operating with 

Firmware 1.4.5. The firmware of Falcom STEPP is constantly being improved 

and new features are added. The Falcom STEPP operated with firmware 1.4.5 

will periodically test itself. There is no user configuration required. This 

feature will internally be performed. 

The aforementioned firmware is distributed electronically via internet and is 

available on the Falcom’s Website for free download: 

� www.falcom.de/service/downloads/firmware/Falcom STEPP 

In order to avoid any damages while the update procedure, please follow up 

step-by-step the instructions described on the chapter 7. 

2.1.6 Falcom STEPP operating with Firmware 1.4 

The following description is base on the Falcom STEPP operating with 

Firmware 1.4. By clicking of the created links below, user will find the 

commands in formatted string as well as the crresponding examples of each 

new command. All new SMS command having (c) symbol are available only to 

Firmware 1.4. 

1. A new SMS parameter ACK added which enables the user to 

activate/deactivate the confirmation SMS sent by STEPP. If the 

confirmation SMS was activated, and if STEPP receives a configuration 

SMS, STEPP will send an acknowledge to the sender that the 

configuration was successful, bad command or bad parameter. 

2. In the $GPGSM protocol the number of the caller will be transmitted if the 

number was not saved in the authorized list instead of refusing the call (by 

the earlier versions). 

3. The Falcom STEPP does not send messages if the battery is low or if it is 

not registered in the GSM network. 

4. The limit of unsuccessful calls is fixed upto 3 time. That means, if the 

Falcom STEPP has to create voice or data call to target telephone number 

and it is switched off or it is not registrated in the GSM network the 

Falcom STEPP tried upto 3 time to reach it, after that the call type will be 

ignored. 

5. The STEPP device will store the latest valid GPS fix. In case of user 

requests the vehicle position and the up to date position of the device is 

invalid, the device holds the latest stored valid GPS fix (longitude, latitude 

and altitude) and sends it to the target phone number in a string formatted 


Page 20


as shown below. The validity status indicator in capital letter inside the 

$GPRMC and $GPGLL protocols will be switched from V to S –letter. 

Example: 

Send: 

&REQ POS 0 // The user request of vehicle position was 

at 12:39:55. 

Receive: 

$GPRMC,094055.121,S,5040.4014,N,01058.8657,E,,,280103,,*16 //a RMC 

protocol will be sent to the message sender with switched status 

indicator from “V” to “S”. The attached time (the UTC time 

between the message header and status indicator) does not 

correspond to the time of position request (current time). The 

latest valid GPS position holds form storage will be sent to the 

SMS receiver including the recorded time (e.g. 09:40:55). 

The received $GPRMC message above is sent to the SMS receiver instead 

of the device sends an invalid GPS position as below: 

Receive: 

$GPRMC,123955.221,V,0000.0000,N,00000.0000,E,,, 280103,,*34 

This feature allows the user of device to calculate the time on which the 

device has not been able to obtain the location fix. In this case the 

calculation time of the invalid GPS position is 02 hours and 59 minutes. 

6. The user can configure the unit via SMS command to reset the GPS core in 

interval of time. The parameter is named GEOMSG and its unit is in 

minute. 

7. A new SMS parameter is created to reset the GSM core in pre-defined 

interval of time. The parameter is named GSMRESET and its unit is in 

minute. If STEPP was involved in a data connection, and if no protocols or 

data can be transmitted to the other call party, after “CONNECT 9600”, 

the STEPP device resets the GSM engine after the timeout of the predefined 

time value. The countdown starts when “CONNECT 9600” 

appears on the side of the other call party. The same function of this 

command is also added in the “configure device parameters” window of 

ConfigSTEPP software (see figure 9). 

8. A new SMS parameter Fehler! Verweisquelle konnte nicht gefunden 

werden. is added. This command can configure the STEPP to send the 

pre-defined protocols to the other call party after timeout of the predefined 

time. The countdown starts when “CONNECT 9600” appears on 

the side of other call party. The same function of this command is also 

added in the “configure device parameters” window of ConfigSTEPP 

software (see figure 9). 

9. A next new important SMS parameter KEY is created to configure 

the activation of inputs (1 to 8). There are 3 user’s programmable states of 

alarm inputs. A numeric parameter (1, 2 or 3) can be entered by the 

corresponding SMS parameter to set a key activation. Number 1 

corresponds the input activation from LOW to HIGH. Number 2 


Page 21


corresponds the key activation from HIGH to LOW, and 3 corresponds the 

key activation of both cases (HIGH-LOW and LOW-HIGH). 

10. In the History of STEPP the events ($GPIOP) will be saved with other 

GPS protocols. 


Page 22


3 Brief overview of the SMS and NMEA commands 

The following table provides a brief and comprehensive overview of all SMS 

and NMEA commands. For a more detailed description of each command 

listed in the table below, refer to the chapters 6.4 and 6.5 

SMS Command Description Example 

&REQ POS n 

&REQ CNF 

Request vehicle 

position every (n) 

minute 

Request STEPP 

configuration 

&REQ POS Poll one position 

&REQ POS 1 Poll position every 1 minute 

&REQ CNF 

&CNF UNIT PIN Change PIN number &CNF UNIT PIN=1234 

&CNF UNIT NAME 

Give/Change STEPP 

name 

&CNF UNIT NAME=Vehicle1 

&CNF UNIT RING 

Modify the ring 

Melody for voice call 

&CNF UNIT RING=2 Ring melody 2 

&CNF UNIT PWD 

Give/change the 

password of the 

STEPP 

&CNF UNIT PWD=Tommy001 

Tommy001 is, for example, a password 

&CNF UNIT PORT1=Z,1,1 

Set Digital output 1 for cyclic switching 

&CNF UNIT 

PORT 

Change the status of 

the digital outputs of 


&CNF UNIT PORT2=E 

Switch ON Digital output 2 

&CNF UNIT PORT3=A 

Switch OFF Digital output 3 

&CNF UNIT PORT4=I,5 

5sec. Impulse on Output 4. 

&CNF UNIT 

KEY 

Configure the alarm 

inputs of the STEPP 

&CNF UNIT 

KEY1=S0123456,AlarmText,RMCIOP 

Configure Key 1. 

&CNF UNIT IN 

Configure the 

analogue inputs of 

STEPP (max. and min. 

values) 

&CNF UNIT 

IN1=S012345,Alarmtext,2,4,IOP 

Configure analogue input1. 

2: Minimum value; 

4 Maximum value 

&CNF UNIT 

TEL 

Insert authorized 

numbers in the 

autorized list 

&CNF UNIT TEL1=V+49123456 

&CNF UNIT VOL 

Modify the level of the 

speaker of the STEPP 

&CNF UNIT VOL=10,12 

Speaker: 10 

Microphone: 12 

&CNF UNIT ACK=1 

&CNF UNIT ACK() 

Enable/Disable the 

SMS confirmation 

Reset the GSM core 

Activate receiving SMS confirmations 

&CNF UNIT ACK=0 

Deactivate receiving SMS confirmations 

&CNF UNIT 

GSMWRST()=n 

after n-minutes if no 

GSM activities are 

available at this time. 

&CNF UNIT WRST=720 

&CNF UNIT LOG 

Modify the parameters 

for the GPS History 

Waiting n-seconds 

&CNF UNIT LOG=4,5,3600,0,0,0,0 

&CNF UNIT Fehler! before delivering the 

Verweisquelle konnte nicht GPS-Protocols after &CNF UNIT GSMCALL=10 

gefunden werden.=n receiving CONNECT 

9600 in the data 


Page 23


connection 

Configure the STEPP 

via conditions 

&CNF UNIT MSG 

parameters for 

sending SMS messages 

It allows you to 

monitor an abandoned 

&CNF UNIT IGN() 

vehicle fitted with 


Initiate a return call 

from the device as a 

&REQ CONNECT 

data call and transfer 

the set GPS protocols 

Initiate a return call 

&REQ PHONE 

from the STEPP as 

voice or alarm call 

Resets the GPS 

&REQ START 

receiver and the GSM 

engine of the STEPP 

Configure geo-fencing vial SMS commands 

&CNF [PWD] UNIT 

GEOMSG= , 

s,fmit,fmat,dmi,dma,smi,s 

ma,Protocol1Protocol2 

&CNF UNIT 

GEO()= 

RegionName, Region 

ID,Lattitude UL, 

Longitude UL, Latitude 

LR, Longitude 

LR,AlarmType 

&CNF UNIT 

GEO()= 




LR, Longitude 

LR,AlarmType 

&CNF UNIT 

GEO() = 

RegionName, RegionID, 

Lattitude UL, Longitude 

UL, Latitude LR, 

Longitude LR,AlarmType 

&CNF [PWD] WATCH 

Length,AlarmText 

Configure the STEPP 

via conditions 

parameters for 

sending Geo-fencing 

SMS messages 

Geo-Fencing SMS 

command SMS Alarm 

when STEPP leaves 

the defined area 


command Alarm when 

the STEPP enters the 

defined area 


command Alarm when 

STEPP enters and 

leaves the defined area 

Activate a Master 

Region 

&CNF UNIT 

MSG=S012345,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP 

IGN=0,1000,Ignition-alarm 

A Master region (GEO00) of 1000 meter 

radius is generated. 

&REQ CONNECT 01234567 

The call number should be a data one 

&REQ PHONE1 123456 Alarm call 

&REQ PHONE2 123456 Voice call 

&REQ START 

&CNF UNIT 

GEOMSG=S012345,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP 

&CNF UNIT GEO01=Langewiesen,01, 

50.68175,10.95133,50.66715,10.98726,0 

&CNF UNIT GEO02=Ilmenau,02, 

50.69181,10.89674,50.67472,10.94447,1 

&CNF UNIT 

GEO03=Manebach,03,50.68505,10.85257,50. 

67375,10.86674,2 

&CNF WATCH 200, The car is stolen 

NMEA command Description Example 

$PSRF108,PIN=New PIN Change PIN number $PSRF108,PIN=1234 

$PSRF108,TEL1=S654321 

Authorized call number for SMS 

$PSRF108,TEL= 

Tel 

Insert authorized 

numbers in the 

autorized list 

$PSRF108,TEL2=V654321 

Authorized call number for voice 

$PSRF108,TEL3=A246810 

Authorized call number for voice alarm 

$PSRF108,TEL2=D86421357 

Authorized call number for Data connection 


Page 24


$PSRF108,LOG 

$PSRF108,VOL 

$PSRF108,KEY 

$PSRF108,NAME 

$PSRF108,PORT 

$PSRF109,0,Date,Time 

$PSRF103,Protocol,00,0 

0,On/OFF,01 

$PSRF108,IN 

$PSRF108,Fehler! 

Verweisquelle konnte nicht 

gefunden werden. 

$PSRF108,GSMRESET() 

Define the History 

parameters 

Modify the level of the 

speaker of the STEPP 

Configure the alarm 

inputs of the STEPP 

Give/Change STEPP 

name 

Set the digital outputs 

Retrieve History for 

specific date/Time 

Switch ON/OFF 

GPS/GPGSM/GPIOP 

protocols 

Configure the analog 

inputs with the max. 

and min. values 

Reset the GPS core in 

the STEPP after nminutes 

if no satellites 

in view 

Reset the GSM core 

after n-minutes if no 

data can be 

transmitted via data 

connection 

It allows you to 

monitor an abandoned 

$PSRF108,IGN() 

vehicle fitted with 


Configure geo-fencing vial NMEA commands 

$PSRF108,GEO() 

= RegionName, Region 



LR, Longitude LR, 

0 

$PSRF108, 

GEO() = 




LR,Longitude LR, 

1 

$PSRF108, 

GEO() = 



Geo-Fencing command 

Alarm when STEPP 

leaves the area 


Alarm when the 

STEPP enters the area 


Alarm when STEPP 

enters and leaves the 

area 

$PSRF108,LOG=4,60,3600,50,0,20,0 

$PSRF108,VOL=12,14 

Speaker: 12 

Microphone: 14 

$PSRF108,KEY1=S0123456,AlarmText,RM 

C 

$PSRF108,NAME=VEHICLE001 

$PSRF108,PORT1=E 

Output1 ON 

$PSRF108,PORT2=A 

Output2 OFF 

$PSRF108,PORT3=Z,1,1 

Output3 cycle switching (1 sec. ON; 1 sec. 

OFF) 

$PSRF108,PORT4=I,2,1 

Impulse signal at output4 (2 sec. Signal 

impulse; 1 is ignored but required for settings) 

$PSRF109,0,280104,155000 

$PSRF103,04,00,00,01 

GPRMC OFF 

$PSRF103,04,00,01,01 

GPRMC ON 

$PSRF108,IN1=S012345,AlarmText,2,4,IOP 

 

$PSRF108,GPSRESET=5 

$PSRF108,GSMRESET=1 

$PSRF108,IGN=0,1000,Ignition-alarm*25 

A Master region (GEO00) of 1000 meter 

radius is generated. 

$PSRF108,GEO01=LANGEWIESEN,001,50 

.68175,10.95133,50.66715,10.98726,0 


.68175,10.95133,50.66715,10.98726,1 


.68175,10.95133,50.66715,10.98726,2 


Page 25



LR, Longitude LR, 

2 


Page 26


4 Configuration instructions 

4.1 Startdisplay 

When starting the Falcom STEPPconfig software, the Startdisplay of 

STEPPconfig software will appear (image 4). 

You can access all important program parts such as: 

• 

• 

• 

Menu bar (1) 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

− 

Exit 

Settings 

Start MAPSoftware 

Service mode 

Help Function 

Main program areas (2) 

Remote 

SMS 

Status 

History 

Alarms 

Satellites 

Info 

Status bar (3) 

Selected COM port 

Field for status reports 

A menu command is chosen by clicking on it with the mouse, or by using the 

keyboard and pressing and the underlined letter (e.g. Alt+ E to chose 

Service Mode). 

The program’s main window is divided into 7 main areas, which can be 

activated by clicking on them with the mouse. 

Depending on the executed program function, the display field for status 

information will give useful status information as user tips. 

Image 4: Startdisplay 


Page 27


4.2 Menu bar 

Activate the desired menu option by clicking on it with the mouse or by using 

the keyboard and simultaneously pressing ALT and the underlined letter in the 

menu bar (e.g. Alt+E for Service mode). 

Please note: The menu option “Settings” is deactivated during the initialisation 

phase of the GSM modem (Falcom SWING). 

4.2.1 Settings Menu 

Image 5: Settings Menu 

Option Description 

Cars 

Chose this option if you wish to enter a new vehicle data 

set, or edit an existing one. 

Chose this option to specify the COMport for 

COMport and 

communicating with a connected GSM modem (Falcom 

SWING, 2D-1) or Falcom STEPP, and the COMport to 

MapSoftware 

save the output of the NMEA data from a history file to a 

map software and the path entry to a possibly existing 

MAP software. 

Reinitializing GSM Chose this menu option if you wish to re-initialise the 

module 

connected GSM modem. 

Table 1: Menu of Settings 


Page 28


4.2.1.1 Settings - CARS 

The menu option “Cars” opens a simple vehicle management window, whose 

data is saved in FalcomSTEPP.ini. 

In order to enter data for a new vehicle, please enter the description (the most 

appropriate is the vehicle’s registration number) in the field “description”, and 

the telephone number of the SIM card inserted in the FalcomSTEPP in the field 

named “phone number”. By double-clicking on the “description” field of an 

already captured vehicle, the vehicle data is displayed in fields 3 and 4 for 

editing purposes. 

The processed data is stored by clicking on “save”. 

• Please note that the applied SIM card might have a voice number and a data 

number. 

This is important if you on the one hand wish to receive position data via a 

data line, and on the other wish to establish a voice and alarm call (voice 

line). 

It might be advisable to capture a vehicle twice in order to have the choice 

between the voice number and the data number of the target device. 

Image 6: Vehicle management 

Entry Description 

car description (1) Displays the description of already captured vehicles 

phone number (2) Displays the telephone number of already captured vehicles 

description (3) Enter the description (max 15 digits) of the target vehicle. 

phone number (4) 

Enter the target telephone number (of the SIM card inserted 

in Falcom STEPP). 

save (5) 

Saves the data entered into fields 3 and 4. 

The data immediately displays in the list boxes 1 and 2. 

delete (6) 

Deletes the data set of the item marked in field 1 

(Description). 

exit (7) Closes the window “Enter cars” 

Table 2: Settings - Cars 


Page 29


4.2.1.2 Settings - COMport and MapSoftware 

Image 7: Port configuration and search path for map software 


port GSM (1) 

port for output history 

data (2) 

COM Port of the connected communication device 

(e.g. Falcom SWING) or the FalcomSTEPP connected for 


COM Port for output of history files to map software. 

baudrate (6) 

Setting the baud rate for the output of a history file to map 

software. 

enter your Map 

Please enter the path to your execution file of the map 

application (3) 

software used by you. 

save (4) Saves the entered data. 

exit (5) Closes the active window. 

Table 3: Settings 

• In field (1), enter the COM port to which you have connected your GSM 

modem (recommended Falcom SWING). 

• In field (2), enter the COM port over which you want to export the log data 

to the map software. 

• In the field “Select your MAP application” enter the search path to the 

execution file of you map software (e.g. Map&Guide– MgStart.exe). 

• Save the entries by clicking on the button “save” (4). 

• Chose the baud rate required for exporting to map software. 

• By clicking on “exit” (5), you will close the configuration window. 


Page 30


4.2.1.3 Reinitializing GSM modem 

In this menu option it is possible to reinitialise an already connected GSM 

modem, if necessary. 

The following transactions are done to the modem: 

• Switching off the Hardware Handshake - AT+IFC=0,0 

• Switching on the extended Error-Codes - AT+CMEE=1 

• Ignoring the DTR line - AT&D0 

• Requesting the PIN number - AT+CPIN? 

If the PIN is not passed on correctly, STEPPconfig will request the PIN 

number. In the following window, please enter your PIN number of your SIM 

card. 

• Activating the protocol V32-non-transpartent - AT+CBST=7,0,1 

• Activating autobauding - AT+IPR=0 

• Automatic display of network registration - AT+CREG=1 

• Requesting registration status - AT+CREG? 

• After logging on to the network, requesting the 

current network operators - AT+COPS? 

• When the GSM-Modem is connected it shows in status window the 

transmitted indications about the Network-Provider, field strength and 

registration status of the GSM-Modem (see chapter 3.3.3). The data 

update take place when the software is started and after each time the 

modem has been initialized. 

4.2.2 Starting the Map software 

When NMEA-protocols are received via the serial port of a connected Falcom 

STEPP or via a data line, the menu option “start MAP software” in the menu 

bar will be activated. 

When choosing this menu option, the protocols received will be passed on 

directly via the selected COM port. In order to achieve this, STEPPconfig will 

surrender control of the serial port to the map software. Upon closing the map 

software, STEPPconfig will resume control of the serial port when you click on 

“remote access stop”. 

Hint: If NMEA protocols are available at the serial port immediately after 

starting STEPPconfig, then STEPPconfig will assume that a Falcom 

STEPP is directly connected and activate the “Service Mode Menu”. 


Page 31


4.2.3 Service Mode Menu 

This menu option is for setting the most important device parameters of a local 

connected Falcom STEPP. 

Immediately after being switched on, the Falcom STEPP will begin to send out 

NMEA protocols (in state of delivery, $GPRMC and $GPGGA). 

This is an indication for STEPPconfig that a Falcom STEPP is directly 

connected to the serial port. The menu option “Service mode” is activated. 

Image 8: Service Mode Menu 


Configuration of the most important device parameters of a 

device basic configuration 

directly connected Falcom STEPP. 

When you activate this item the software creates a log file 

(logging.log) in the directory of STEPPConfig. The 

Logging 

interaction strings detected every 1/100 sec. can be stored 

in the log file. (see also the new chapter 4.2.3.5 Logging) 

Activation of a help tool for calculating check sums 

checksum-Calculator 

for PSRF commands 

Service mode OFF Deactivates the Service Mode. 

Table 4: Service Mode Menu 

4.2.3.1 Configuration of Device Parameters 

Image 9: Configuration tool 


Page 32



alarm key 

Configuration of alarm inputs for the Falcom STEPP. See 

configuration (17) chapter “Configuration of alarm inputs”. 

general parameters Configuration of the devices’ basic parameters for 

(4) 

Falcom STEPP. See chapter “General parameters”. 

GPS history 

Configuration of basic parameters for Falcom STEPP for 

configuration (20) storing the GPS history. 

See chapter “GPS History”. 

Analogue input Configuration of analogue alarm inputs for the Falcom 

configuration (18) STEPP. 

Displays syntax of the commands to be sent for the 

Command - Display chosen functions. For detailed information, please read 

(2) 

the chapter: 

Extended NMEA commands – only for Falcom STEPP. 

read (3) 

Reads the device configuration of the connected Falcom 

STEPP. 

exit (1) Closes configuration tools. 

Table 5: Configuration tool 

In the chapter “Configuration of Device Parameters” you will get an 

overview of the basic configuration for Falcom STEPP. 

It is divided into the following chapters: 

• General parameters (4) 

• Alarm key configuration (17) 

• GPS – History configuration (20) 

• Analogue input configuration (18) (a) 

a 

This tool is available on the FALCOM STEPP with Firmware version 1.0.5. 


Page 33


4.2.3.1.1 General parameters (see image 9) 


Device name (5) 

Enter a device name (max. 20 digits) for the Falcom 

STEPP to be configured (optional) 

Enter a password (max. 10 digits) for the Falcom STEPP 

to be configured (optional). The displayed one is 

Password (6) 

encrypted applying a 160-bit function. (see chapter 4.2) 

Please note: With a configured password, remote 

configuration via SMS is only possible 

with the password 

Enter the PIN number of the SIM card for the Falcom 

Pin (7) 

STEPP to be configured (with activated PIN absolutely 

imperative). 

Enter authorized telephone numbers (max. 10 numbers) 

for the Falcom STEPP to be configured (optional). 

Authorized numbers Please note: Once at least one number has been entered 

(8) 

into this table, only these numbers are authorized to 

interact with the Falcom STEPP. All other calls are 

ignored. 

Defines the call type for each respective telephone 

Voice, Data, Alarm, number. 

SMS (9) 

For further details, please read the chapter: 

List box “authorized 

“Authorized numbers”. 

List of authorized numbers for remote access and 


numbers”(10) 

For more details please read the chapter: 

Add (11) 

“Authorized numbers”. 

Adds the number entered in field (8) to the authorized 

numbers. 

Delete (12) 

Deletes the number marked in field (10) from the list of 

authorized numbers. 

Ringer melody (13) A list of ringer melodies for indicating an incoming call. 

Speaker vol. (14) Adjusts the loudspeaker volume for incoming voice calls 

Mic vol. (15) Adjusts microphone amplification for outgoing voice calls 

Send (16) 

Manually sends a device 

(not required for all selections) 

configuration command 

Ignition timer (19) Currently not functional. 

GPS Reset (21) 

Defines the reset of GPS core (see the description follow 

as well chapter 2.1, point 6, configuration over-air via 

SMS) 

GSM Reset (22) 

Defines the reset of GSM core (see description follow as 

well chapter 2.1, point 7 configuration over-air via SMS) 

Table 6: Configuration – general parameters 


Page 34


Within the configuration “general parameters”, it is possible to define the 

following important general device parameters: 

- PIN (7) 

- Name (5) 

- Password (6) 

- Authorized telephone numbers (8 to 12) 

- Ringer melody (13) 

- Volume on audio channels (14 to 15) 

- Reset of GPS and GSM core (21, 22) 

Please make your preferred entries, and save them by clicking on the “send” 

button (16). 

The individual configuration parameters have the following meanings: 

• PIN – The number, which may be required for the use of your SIM card. 

- Enter the correct number and confirm your entry by clicking on the 

“send” button. 

• Name 

- If required, give the Falcom STEPP a name (the easiest is the 

vehicle’s registration number) and click on the “send” button. 

• Password 

- If required, enter a password for the Falcom STEPP number and 

click on the “send” button. With immediate effect, for all future 

configurations by SMS, a password will be required. 

• Authorized telephone numbers 

- If required, enter a list of telephone numbers that are authorized for 

remote access to this Falcom STEPP, or remote configuration of the 

device. 

If there are no entries in the list box, it is possible to have remote 

access or perform remote configuration from any GSM modem or 

mobile phone via SMS. 

By double-clicking on an existing entry in the list, the number is 

retrieved to the editing field (8) where it can be changed. 

The data is automatically saved when clicking on the “add” button. 

Select beforehand the position in the list where you would like the 

number to be saved. 

There is no need to click on the “send” button. 

• Ringer melody 

- Leaves you the choice of a list of ringer melodies for indicating an 

incoming voice call. 

The melody is saved automatically once you have chosen it. There is 

no need to click on the “send” button. 

• Volume on audio channels 

- In fields (14 and 15), a wide range for loudspeaker volume and 

microphone amplification for incoming voice calls allows for 

optimum adjustment for the various vehicle types. 

Save the entries by clicking on the “send” button (16). 

• Reset of GPS and GSM cores 

- The entry in field (22) will be the operation’s time of GSM core. 

After the time in minutes has run out the GSM core make itself a 


Page 35


reset, but it happens only if no data can be received from STEPP 

device via data connection. The countdown starts after receiving 

“Connect 9600 ...” and no data can be transmitted. 

- The entry in field (21) will be the operation’s time of GSM core. If 

the entered time in minutes runs out the GPS core performs a reset, 

but it only happens if no satellites are in view. This procedure 

repeats itself until the acquisition of satellites for a GPS fix is 

successful. 

4.2.3.1.2 Alarm key configuration 

Image 10: Configuration of alarm keys 


Key1 (1) Alarm input 1 




IGN (1) Alarm input IGNITION 

BAT (1) Alarm input BATTERY 

Phone number (2) 

Entry of target telephone number for the respective 

alarm message. 

Alarm text (3) Entry of alarm text for the respective alarm message. 

Protocol/type (4) 

Send (5) 

Entry of the alarm type for the respective alarm 

message. Please read the chapter Configuration of 

alarm inputs. 

Saves the configuration of the respective alarm 

entries in Falcom STEPP 

Table 7: Configuration of alarm inputs 

This chapter explains the configuration of one of the most important functions 

of the Falcom STEPP: the alarm input configuration. 

The required command (for a directly connected Falcom STEPP) is: 

$PSRF108,KEY[1..8]=target telephone number,alarm text,Flag*15 

The parameters have the following meaning: 

• KEY[1..8] denotes the respective alarm input 


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- Alarm input 1 




- Alarm input vehicle battery (BAT) 

- Alarm input ignition (IGN) – clip15 ignition lock 

• Target telephone number denotes the telephone number to which the text 

configured in alarm text is sent to in case of an alarm. 

• Alarm text denotes the text that is sent to the target telephone number in 

case of an alarm. 

• Flag denotes the type of alarm to be sent. 

The following alarm types can be distinguished: 

� SMS and GPIOP –A SMS is sent to the target telephone number 

containing the alarm text with attached $GPIOP protocol. 

� SMS and GPGGA 

An SMS is sent to the target telephone number containing the alarm 

text with attached $GPGGA protocol 

� SMS and GPRMC 


text with attached $GPRMC protocol 

� SMS and GPGSV 


text with attached $GPGSV protocol 

� SMS and GPGSA 


text with attached $GPGSA protocol 

� SMS and GPGLL 


text with attached $GPGLL protocol 

� Voice call 

A voice call is created for the target telephone number 

� Alarm call 

An alarm call is created for the target telephone number 

(Loudspeaker in the vehicle is deactivated – only the microphone is 

active) 

� Data call 

A data call is created for the target telephone number and the defined 

GPS protocols are transmitted 

� Clear key 

The configuration of the active alarm input is erased. An alarm 

notification will no longer take place via this alarm entry. 

NOTE: In order to generate an alarm, the state of input should be altered 

for minimum 1 sec. 

Important 

In case of relevant security applications, the target telephone number must be 

always reachable (Alarm-Center, mobile phone, etc.). If requred, it is possible 

to enter up to five phone numbers, and between each two phone numbers a 

semicolon “;” must also be entered. If the first phone number is not reachable, 


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Falcom STEPP tries to reach the second entered number. This configuration is 

not available as a standard configuration in the current software. If it is 

necessray, it is possible to configure the Falcom STEPP manually in the field 

of “SMS Window”. 

The configuration must meet the below example: 

&CNF password UNIT KEY1=V1234567;S7654321;A1234321,”Text” 

4.2.3.1.3 GPS History configuration 

Image 11: GPS history configurations 


NMEA protocols Minimum number of satellites required for storage in the 

min. satellites (1) history. 

Logging enabled (2) Activates / deactivates the history function. 

Set default (3) Resets history parameters to default settings 

Clear history (4) Deletes GPS history of the connected Falcom STEPP 

FixMinTime (5) Minimum time interval for saving GPS protocols in the GPS 

history 

Dist. Min (6) Minimum covered distance for saving GPS protocols in the 

GPS history 

SpeedMin (7) Minimum driving speed for saving GPS protocols in the GPS 

history 

FixMax Time (8) Maximum time interval for saving GPS protocols in the GPS 

history 

Dist. Max (9) Maximum covered distance for saving GPS protocols in the 

GPS history 

Speed Max (10) Maximum driving speed for saving GPS protocols in the GPS 

history 

Send (11) Save the set parameters in Falcom STEPP 

Table 8: GPS history configuration 

A separate chapter (Chapter 4 – Tracking point 4.1 History) is dedicated to the 

history configuration, as it offers a number of complex possibilities. There you 

will also find detailed information on the configuration. 


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4.2.3.1.4 Analogue imputs configuration (b) 

Image 12: Analogue input configuration 



Enter the target telephone number where an alarm for the 

analogue input 1 is to be sent to. 

Alarm text (2) Enter the text of the alarm SMS for analogue input 1 

Minimum value (3) Enter the minimum value for analogue input 1. 

Maximum value (4) Enter the maximum value for analogue input 1. 

Protocol/Type (5) 

Send (6) 

Enter the alarm type for the analogue input 1. 

Please read the description below for the configuration of 

analogue inputs. 

Saves the configuration of the analogue input 1 in Falcom 



Enter the target telephone number where an alarm for the 

analogue input 2 is to be sent to. 

Alarm text (8) Enter the text of the alarm SMS for analogue input 2 

Minimum value (9) Enter the minimum value for analogue input 2. 

Maximum value (10) Enter the maximum value for analogue input 2. 

Protocol/Type (11) 

Send (12) 

Enter the alarm type for the analogue input 2. 

Please read the description below for the configuration of 

analogue inputs. 

Saves the configuration of the analogue input 2 in Falcom 


This new chapter explains the detailed configuration of new important function 

of the Falcom STEPP: the configuration of alarm analogue inputs. 

• Target telephone number denotes the telephone number to which the text 

configured in alarm text is to be sent to in case of an alarm on the 

configured analogue input. 

• Alarm text denotes the text that is to be sent to the target telephone 

number in case of an alarm on the configured analogue input. 

b 

This tool is available on the FALCOM STEPP with Firmware version 1.0.5. 


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• Minimum value denotes the minimum value, which is to be entered. In our 

software application the value has to be ≥ 1.0. See example below. 

• Maximum value denotes the maximum value, which is to be entered. In 

our software application the value has to be ≤ 5.0. See example below. 

• Protocol/type denotes the type of alarm to be sent. 

The following alarm types can be distinguished: 

� SMS and GPIOP – A SMS is sent to the target telephone number 

containing the alarm text with attached $GPIOP protocol. 

� SMS and GPGGA 


text with attached $GPGGA protocol 

� SMS and GPRMC 


text with attached $GPRMC protocol 

� SMS and GPGSV 


text with attached $GPGSV protocol 

� SMS and GPGSA 


text with attached $GPGSA protocol 

� SMS and GPGLL 


text with attached $GPGLL protocol 

� Voice call 

A voice call is created for the target telephone number 

� Alarm call 

An alarm call is created for the target telephone number 

(Loudspeaker in the vehicle is deactivated – only the microphone is 

active) 

� Data call 

A data call is created for the target telephone number and the defined 

GPS protocols are transmitted 

� Clear key 

The configuration of the active alarm input is erased. An alarm 

notification will no longer take place via this alarm entry. 

EXAMPLE for analogue input 1: 

Min. value is : 2.0 (V) 

Max. value is : 3.0 (V) 

That means the user has chosen the range of value from 2.0 (V) to 3.0 (V). 

If the installed analogue device leaves the pre-defined range (up or down), 

the FALCOM STEPP will send an SMS (entered in the alarm text input 

field) to the target telephone number (01234567). In case that value comes 

back to the pre-defined range (from 2.0 to 3.0 (V)), the FALCOM STEPP 

does not send SMS to the target telephone number. An SMS alarm will be 

sent to the target telephone number only in case of exceeding or falling 

below the entered range. 

In case of an alarm configuration on analogue input 1 or 2, user can select 

not only a SMS message, but he also can attach a GPS message (e.g. 

GPRMC protocol) to the SMS text. 


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In order to poll the current values of analogue input, the user can use the 

following posibilities: 

� Data line (see chapter3.3.1.1 for details) 

A data call is created for the target telephone number and the IOP 

protocol is transmitted 

� Send a SMS as request 

&REQ [PWD] POS 0,0,0,0,0,0,0,IOP // see command description 

Please note: If the configuration of the Falcom STEPP does not 

contains password, the parameter [PWD] can be omitted. 

The command is to be sent via SMS to the FALCOM 


The IOP protocol includes the values of analogue inputs. 

4.2.3.1.5 Configure Geo-fencing 

The firmware and STEPPConfig software of Falcom STEPP are constantly 

being improved and new features are added. This section is a new one and it is 

available only for the STEPPConfig software and Falcom STEPP device 

operating with the latest firmware (version 1.6, Goe-fencing implemented). 

This section describes how the Geo-fencing works and how to set up a No-Go 

Zone Entry event to the terminal, it is assumed that the users have a basic 

understanding of conditional logic and geographic coordinates. 

The term “No-Go Zone Entery” used in the manual, signifies defined customer 

area(s) on which configuration of events are possible. 

How to do Geo-fencing with the FALCOM STEPP 

The Geo-fencing is a term used to describe an event when the vehicle fited 

with a GSM/GPS unit places an electronic rectangle coordinates around your 

vehicle. Once a geo-fence is established, users can be automatically notified, as 

a result of exception reporting, if a vehicle enters and/or leaves the user predefined 

area. This functionality can be used for territory management, route 

verification, arrival/departure notification and prohibited locations. Exception 

reporting can also be applied to a wide variety of additional events, such as 

arrivals, departures, deliveries, pick-ups, illegal entries, unauthorized 

movement, and more. The FALCOM STEPP terminal based on the GPS, 

recognises if the vehicle crosses a user-defined geographic boundary, therefore, 

a SMS alert is issued. The constructed form of geographic boundary zones 

(restricted customer areas) has to be rectangle ones and they can be in different 

sizes, but the smallest size is 30 x 30 meters recommended. 

The figure below shows possibilities of defining geographic zones. 


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Determine the Zone’s Grid Coordinates 

The FALCOM STEPP unit supports three different kinds of coordinate format 

for latitude and longitude. These formats are based on the output of NMEA 

protocol format. So the coordinates may be one of the following types: 

• Latitude, longitude(in degrees, minutes, seconds). 

$GPRMC,141038.641,A,50'42'44",N,10'52'55",E,0.08,17.08,280104,,*09 

• Latitude, longitude (in decimal degrees). 

$GPRMC,141128.638,A,50.712222,N,10.881944,E,0.07,103.22,280104,,*3E 

• Latitude, longitude (GPS NMEA format). 

$GPRMC,141037.641,A,5042.5103,N,1052.0101,E,0.09,13.54,280104,,*0E 

First, you have to use your mapping software (Map&Guide or another one) to 

determine the rectangle coordinates for your set zone. In order to do this, open 

the map software and locate the coordinate text that displays the geographic 

coordinates of your cursor location on the map: 

� For the Map&Guide, by moving the mouse cursor on the map the current 

coordinates (Longitude/Latitude in degrees, minute and second) are 

displayed at the bottom corner on the first panel of the viewer window. 

Locate the zone you want to define on the map, and note down the upper left 

corner (UL) and the lower right corner (LR) coordinates of a rectangle that 

defines the zone. 

In our example (in degrees, minutes, seconds): 

Latitude (UL) = 10°52’55” N 

Longitude (UL) = 50°42’44” W 


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Latitude (LR) = 10°57’14” N 

Longitude (LR) = 50°40’18” W 

Note: The coordinates can also be defined in other formats (Map&Guide 

uses degrees and decimal minutes notation). 

In order to convert coordinates from degrees, minutes, seconds format to 

decimal format, refer to the chapter 8. 

You have now determined the grid coordinates for your rectangular zone. 

One last step before setting up the event, is to determine the sign of the 

coordinate values. Please remeber that, Latitude North and Longitude East are 

positive and Latitude South and Longitude West are negative (see figure 

below): 

Set up the No-Go Zone Entry event 

Set up the event as normal, and enter the parameters as indicated above. 

For our example: 

This will result in an event being recorded in the FALCOM STEPP when the 

Latitude of the vehicle’s current position is bigger than 10°57’14” AND 

smaller than 10°52’55”AND the Longitude of the vehicle’s current position is 

bigger than 50°42’44” AND smaller than 50°40’18”. That means the 

FALCOM STEPP will send an SMS alert message if a vehicle leaves that 

defined zone. 

Image 12: Geo-fencing configuration 


Enter the upper left coordinates for the Latitude and Longitude of 

the restricted zone. Instead of degree character (°) use one of 

Upper Left (1) 

characters (.). Or typing on the numeric keypad of the keyboard 

the number "248" while holding down the "Alt" key, the degree 


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Lower Right (2) 

character (°) is produce when the "Alt" key is released. 

Enter the lower right coordinates for the Latitude and Longitude 

of the restricted zone. 

Area (3) Select one of 99 possibilities to defined an area. 

Enter the identification number for each areas. 

There are two possibilities to set up an ID zone. 

Area ID (4) 

In order to establish a single zone which involves many small 

zones (up to 99 fixed), is required that all involved zones must 

have the same ID number. e.g. establish an area where the 

vehicle allowed to travel. An alarm message is issued if predefined 

parameters of established single zone are exceeded. (For 

more details read the description below this table.) 

In order to control each zone separately, the different ID for each 

zone has to be set. An alarm message is issued if pre-defined 

parameters for current zone are exceeded. 

Alarm type (5) 

Select one of three posibilities of alarm type for current restricted 

zone. (For more details read the description below.) 

Alarm text (6) Enter the text of the alarm SMS for current defined zone. 

Dest. number (7) 

Enter the target telephone number where an alarm for current 

zone to be sent to. 

Set the interval of time in seconds for sending SMS message 

Interval (8) 

from the Falcom STEPP. If this value is set to 0, a SMS message 

for in-zone and out-zone will be sent to the authorized number, 

respectively. 

Send (9) 

Saves the configuration of the restricted zone in Falcom STEPP 

terminal. 

Appears all stored configuration of areas. By double-clicking on 

Stored areas (10) an already defined area, the area data will be displayed in fields 1 

to 9 for controlling and editing purposes. 

Concerning the set No-Go Zone Entry event, the FALCOM STEPP terminal 

supports three different configuration types: 

1- if the vehicle enters (on the Alarm Type selection field named “inside”) 

the pre-defined zone. 

2- if the vehicle leaves (on the Alarm Type selection field named“outside”) 

the pre-defined zone. 

3- if the vehicle enters and leaves (on the Alarm Type selection field named 

“inside and outside”) the pre-defined zone. 

The other possibility is also supported, when the user sets up to 99 different 

zones with the same ID number. The FALCOM STEPP recognises those 

restricted zones as a single zone. The set up of zones has to be adjacent to or 

overlapped zones (no free space between zones). That means if the vehicle 

leaves the first zone and at the same time enters to the next one and others, 

(depend on the amount of set zones) the FALCOM STEPP compares the ID 

zones (the previous zone with the next one) if they are the same one, no SMS 

message will be sent. When the vehicle leaves the current zone and does not 

contemporaneously enter to the next one, so a SMS alert message with 

corresponding zone identification text will be sent to the predefined phone 

number. In other words this geo-fencing feature allows you to establish an area 


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where the vehicle can travel. If the vehicle travels outside this area, an 

exception report is sent to the target phone number. 

Now simply download the new configuration to the vehicle by clicking the 

send button, and your FALCOM STEPP unit will start recording events based 

on the defined geographic zone. 

Hint: The Stepp device can stores up to 100 regions, one of which is the 

master region. The master region is pre-defined and is not configurable 

by a direct connected STEPP, but it can be activated and deactivated 

using SMS messages (refer to the chapter 6.4). The area indicator of 

master region is “00”. 

In order to configure the FALCOM STEPP remotely via SMS or data 

connection, please refer to the chapters 6.4 and 6.5, a comprehensive 

description is also added. All new SMS and NMEA commands having the (d) 

symbol are only available on the Falcom STEPP with Firmware 1.6 and greater 

versions. 

HINT: After the user has defined and activated geo-fencing zone(s), and then 

the STEPP device is switched off; in the next start-up, STEPP 

compares its obtained valid position with the activated geo-fencing 

zone(s). If they are identical a SMS will be sent to the target phone 

number specified on the GEOMSG parameter. 

The same process happens when an internal test or reset of STEPP 

device is performed (see chapter 2.1.5). 

4.2.3.2 Configure GPS protocols 

Image 13: Service mode configuration 

The control components placed within this group box allow you to change the 

GPS protocols, which were activated when starting. The ticked protocols are 

active. By clicking on the protocols you would like to change, the status 

changes from active to inactive and vice versa. 

Important: The selected GPS protocols are saved in the Falcom STEPP. 

After switching off and on again, the same protocols are activated 

again. 

Important item: 

! At least one of the following protocols (GPRMC, CPGGA, GPIOP, 

GPGSM ... .) has to be activated in order to see the incoming and 

outgoing messages on the Terminal (10) of Remote window. For this 

reason the STEPPconfig software does not accept the deactivation of all 

aforementioned protocols. If the user tries to do this error message will 

be displayed. 


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4.2.3.3 Transmit device status ON/OFF 

This menu option activates the transmission of $GPIOP status protocols in 

addition to the selected NMEA protocols. 

Required command: $PSRF103,07,00,01,01*22 

The format of the $GPIOP status protocol is attached in chapter 6.6. 

4.2.3.4 Transmit device status OFF 

When choosing this menu option, the automatic transmission of $GPIOP status 

protocols is terminated. 

Merely the defined NMEA protocols will be sent. 

Required command: $PSRF103,07,00,00,01*23 

4.2.3.5 Logging (new item using STEPPConfig 1.03 and greater version) 

This new menu item added into the STEPPConfig 1.03 is to save the 

interaction strings between Falcom STEPP, SWING and STEPPConfig. When 

you activate this item the software creates a log file (logging.log) in the 

directory of STEPPConfig. The interaction strings detected every 1/100 sec. 

can be stored in the log file. On the Status display (3) the current capacity of 

the log file can be seen. 

The created log file includes the following: 

The first 7 digits represent the interaction time in 1/100 sec. of your operating 

system. 

The second string represents the IN/OUT arrows. The “--->” means the 

incoming string into the STEPP, and the “


Falcom integrated the Checksum Calculator into the STEPPconfig in order to 

support your progress in the practical application. 

In particular when configuring the Falcom STEPP with extended NMEA 

configuration commands (see chapter 4.2.2), it is imperative to calculate the 

checksum for each command. 

Example: $PSRF108,CNF*49 

Displays the device configuration of the Falcom STEPP 

Operating it is very simple. Enter the desired command (without “$”) into the 

entry field, from the above example: PSRF108 

Then click on the calculator button. 

The calculated and completed command will be displayed and copied to the 

Windows® interim file. From there it can easily be taken over to your 

application with CTRL-V (Insert). Add to the string 

4.2.3.7 Service Mode OFF 

With this menu option you can de-activate the “Service-Mode”. 

This is only possible if no Falcom STEPP is connected directly to the serial 

port. 

In this case, the NMEA protocols, which are automatically emitted by the 

Falcom STEPP, will immediately activate the Service Mode, thereby making it 

possible to define the settings on the Falcom STEPP. 

4.3 Main window 

Prerequisite for working with STEPPconfig is e.g. a Falcom SWING as a 

communicating device, which is connected to the serial port as configured in 

“Settings”. 

Insert a SIM card into the Falcom SWING, and switch its power switch to 

“ON” (see also Manual Falcom SWING – available on www.falcom.de). 

Start the STEPPconfig. The user surface of STEPPconfig appears. It is divided 

into 7 sections, which are described below. 

Please note 

The dialogue box “Settings –> COMport and MAP software” (Image 7) 

only opens automatically the first time you start STEPPconfig. 

Please enter the COM port where your communication device is 

connected, and which serial port will be used to export history data to a 

map software. Also enter the path of your map software. The entries will 

be saved in the FalcomStepp.ini file, and will be loaded automatically 

whenever the program is started thereafter. 


Page 47


Image 16: Main window 


Status Information (1, 2) This field gives information to the current connectivity 

Car & Phone (3, 4) 

GSM event protocol 

ON/OFF ($GPGSM) (11) 

device event protocol 

ON/OFF ($GPIOP)(11) 

Voice call (5) 

Hangup (6) 

Configure and filter GPS 

protocols (9) 

(Online, Offline, Dialling) 

This field gives you a choice of all the vehicles registered 

under “Settings-Cars”. The telephone number of the chosen 

vehicle will display in the Phone field (4). The selection of 

a vehicle is the basis for all Voice, Data and SMS 

interactions. 

Clicking the checkbox to switch on the continuous GSMstatus 

transfer within the data line to a Falcom STEPP, or 

uncheck it to switch this option off. 

Clicking the checkbox to switch on the continuous status 

transfer within the data line to a Falcom STEPP, or 

uncheck it to switch this option off. 

By clicking on this button you can activate the 

establishment of a voice or alarm call (depending on the 

configuration of the modem – Falcom STEPP). 

By clicking on this button you will terminate an active 

voice or alarm call. 

Switches the GPS protocols on and off 

(GPGGA, GPRMC, GPGSV, GPGSA, GPGLL). 

It displays the filter of protocols from the data stream of 

received NMEA protocols, too. 

Terminal (10) During communication, the terminal window will display 

the sent and received commands and data. 

Remote access start (7) Starts a data line to the vehicle as chosen in field 3 

Remote access stop (8) Ends the data line to the vehicle as chosen in field 3 

Status information 

COM Port (12) 

Status information 

general (13) 

Table 11: Remote Window 

Information on the defined COM Port 

Displays general information during the program run, such 

as GSM Provider, Service mode, etc. 


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4.3.1 Remote Window 

The Remote Window (Image16) presents the essential operational elements in 

order to establish contact with a vehicle equipped with a Falcom STEPP. 

Before establishing a data or voice line, choose a target vehicle in the field 

“Car” (3). 

The menu option “Settings – Cars” allows the capturing of up to 100 vehicles. 

4.3.1.1 Data line 

The buttons 11 and 12 allow you to establish and to terminate a data line. 

Condition to establish a data line is that the list “authorized numbers” (image 9, 

field 10) is empty, or that the number being used for the data line is registered 

on the SIM card inserted in the Falcom SWING under “authorized numbers”. 

A light display bar (1) and the status information (2) will show whilst the data 

line line is being established. 

Upon successful establishment of the data line, (message Connect 9600) in the 

terminal window (10), the status display (1) will signal the current connection 

with a red light bar. The displays in the right part of the status fields (13..14) 

will change to red. 

Falcom STEPP will automatically and immediately transmit the configured 

NMEA protocols via the existing data line. 

Once these have been received, the menu option “Start MAP software” is 

automatically activated. It is then possible to continuously show a vehicle’s 

position on a map. 

The terminal window (10) will only display the GPS protocols as selected in 

the GPS filter field (9). 

Once a data line is active, it is possible to activate the automatic transfer of the 

device status of the Falcom STEPP by clicking on the “ON” button (5), or 

deactivating it by clicking on the “OFF” button (6). 

For this, the PSRF commands will be used within the data line (see chapter 

4.2.2 – Extended NMEA Commands – only for FALCOM STEPP). 

Example: 

$PSRF103,07,00,01,01*22 // Switches on the status transfer 

$PSRF103,07,00,00,01*23 // Switches off the status transfer 

To terminate the data line, please click on the “Remote access stop” button 

(12). 

4.3.1.2 Voice line 

The buttons “Voice call” (7) and “hangup” (8) allow you to establish a voice 

call or an alarm call to the Falcom STEPP. 

Condition to establish a voice call is that the telephone number of the SIM card 

of the local GSM modem (Falcom SWING) is in Falcom STEPP’s list of 

“authorized numbers” (image 9 – field 10) and that the flag “V” = voice call 

has been activated. If no flag is set, and if the number is in the abovementioned 

list, then a data line will always be established. 


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4.3.1.2.1 Voice call 

A voice call is signalised to the target device connected to the free-speech loud 

speaker and microphone by means of the ringer melody (configuration tool - 

general parameters - field 13). 

FALCOM STEPP automatically receives the call after the second or third ring. 

The call must be terminated by the caller (“Hangup” button (8)). 

4.3.1.2.2 Alarm call 

The alarm call is a particular type of voice call. 

The number of the caller must explicitly have been authorized in the list of 

“authorized numbers” in the configuration tool to make such a call. 

This kind of call does not set off a signal in the vehicle. If the alarm 

microphone is connected, it is possible to listen in on the vehicle’s interior. 

The call must be terminated by the caller (“Hangup” button (8)). 

4.3.1.3 Device event status ON/OFF 

By clicking on these buttons “Device event protocol” it is possible 

to switch ON/OFF the continuous status tranfer beside the GPS protocols. 

Description of these protocols you can find in chapter 3.2.3.3. 

4.3.1.4 GSM event status ON/OFF 

By clicking on the buttons “GSM event protocol”


5: data call in progress 

6: asleep (low functionality)) 

Network-Provider: Name of the GSM-Network-Provider (e.g.: D1- 

Telekom) 

Fieldstrength: 0 .. 31, 99 Receiving field strength of the GSM 

part 

Area code: the transmitted GSM Area code through AT+CCED 

Cell ID: the transmitted GSM Cell ID through AT+CCED 

Example 2: SMS-Profile 

$GPGSM,,,,*chec 

ksum 

$GPGSM,1,”+49123456788”,”Test SMS”*2A 

Event-Flag: 1 (see above) 

Rufnummer: Phone number of the SMS sender 

Phone book: The text in the phone book beside the corresponding 

saved phone number 

SMS-Text: Text contents of the received SMS 

Example 3: Caller-Profile 

$GPGSM,,,, * 

checksum 

$GPGSM,2,V,+49123456788,”Service center”*11 

Event-Flag: 2 (see above) 

Call type: Type of call (V = Voice call, D = Data call) 

Call number: phone number of the caller 

Phone book: The text in the phone book beside the corresponding 

saved phone number 

4.3.2 SMS window 

Image 17: SMS 


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destination number (1) 

Displays the telephone number of the vehicle chosen 

in the Remote window 

dervice center (2) 

Field where to enter the service center number of 

your provider 

read car position (3) 

Request for SMS position message of Falcom STEPP 

at the interval as defined in field 4. 

Sets the transmission interval for SMS position 

transmit position every (4) messages in minutes 

0 = once off transmission 

“Send” SMS button (5) 

Sends a message or command as entered in field 6 to 

the target vehicle. 

Entry field (6) 

Text field for entering a SMS text. 

The message is sent after clicking on button 5 

List of predefined SMS 

commands (7) 

Provides a list of the most important configuration 

commands for remote configuration of a Falcom 


“Send command” button 

(8) 

Table 12: SMS window 

Sends the command chosen in field (7) to the target 

vehicle 

4.3.2.1 Selection box – for predefined configuration commands 

(select command) 

Selection of a SMS configuration command from a predefined list of the most 

important commands. 

Image 18.a: selected command 

To configure the alarm input via SMS for a Falcom STEPP, additional 

information is required. The following window pops up: 

Image 18.b: selected command 


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Alarm phone no. (a) Enter the target number where an alarm SMS is to be sent to 

Alarm text (b) Enter the text of the alarm SMS 

Select alarm type (c) Enter the alarm type of the alarm message to be sent 

Cancel (d) Cancel the configuration 

Table 13: Configure the alarm 

The SMS window allows you to: 

• initiate a once-off or a recurring SMS position transmission through a 

Falcom STEPP to the connected Falcom SWING 

• send a SMS configuration command to a Falcom STEPP 

• send a SMS configuration command from a list of predefined commands 

4.3.2.2 SMS Position request 

4.3.2.2.1 To start a position request via SMS, please follow the steps below: 

1. By clicking the +/- buttons in field 4, select the desired time interval at 

which SMS’s are to be transmitted to you. The interval initiates a 

once-off position transmission. Every other value causes the Falcom 

STEPP to transmit SMS position messages at the set interval (in 

minutes). 

2. Click on the “read car position” button (3) to activate the position 

transmission in Falcom STEPP. 

W a r n i n g 

Please don’t forget that a running automatic position transmission must 

be finalised with a once-off position request with the parameter . 

Otherwise you could incur considerable costs. 

4.3.2.2.2 SMS Remote configuration with predefined commands 

For SMS remote configuration of a Falcom STEPP, a list of predefined 

commands is available in the list 7 “select command”. 

With the help of these commands it is possible to: 

• Change the status of the outputs of a Falcom STEPP 

• Configure the alarm inputs 

• Change the device name or the device password of a Falcom STEPP 

• Prompt the Falcom STEPP to establish a voice, data or alarm call to its 

GSM modem (Falcom SWING) 

For remote configuration, choose one of the predefined commands in the list 

and send it by clicking on the “send command” button (8). 

To configure the alarm input, additional information is required (see image 10). 

Complete the fields “Alarm phone number”, “Alarm text” and “Alarm type”, 

and send the command by clicking on the “send command” button (8). 


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Important 

Upon receiving a configuration SMS, Falcom STEPP will acknowledge 

the receipt to you via SMS. The SMS will contain status information for 

the receipt of the SMS configuration. 

Example: 

+CMT: , , 

• Status: OK – Command received correctly 

• Status: bad command – faulty command received 

• Status: bad password – wrong password given 

4.3.2.3 Examples of configuration commands 

Please note: If the configuration of the Falcom STEPP contains no password, 

the parameter can be omitted. 

The commands are sent via SMS to the vehicle, which is to be 

configured. 

&CNF PORT1 Z,1,1 

− Switches on port 1, flashes in intervals, 1 sec. ON, 1 sec. OFF 

&CNF PORT1 A 

− Switches off port 1 

&CNF PORT1 E 

− Switches on port 1 

&CNF KEY1 S01234567,Alarm Input 1,RMC 

− In case of an alarm on input 1, a SMS will be sent to the telephone 

number 01234567, with an attached GPS position message ($GPRMC 

protocol) 

&CNF NAME MyCar 

− the vehicle has the name “MyCar” 

&CNF PASS NewPass 

− the password for future configurations has been set to “NewPass” 

In chapter 4.2.1 SMS commands, you will find a complete list of all SMS 

commands. 


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4.3.3 Status window 

Image 19: Status window 


Input 1..4 (1) 

Status display for alarm inputs 1..4 

(LED RED = Alarm) 

Res1, Res2 (1) 

The current hardware and software do not 

support these alarm inputs. 

Bat (1) 

Status display for vehicle battery – alarm display 

with missing battery voltage 

Status display ignition (clip 15 at the ignition 

IGN (1) 

lock) – alarm display when starting the ignition 

of the vehicle 

Status display for the analogue input 1 

Analogue input 1 (2) (LED RED = Alarm) 

Field 2 = Entry field for alarm threshold value 

Status display for the analogue input 2 

Analogue input 2 (3) (LED RED = Alarm) 

Field 3 = Entry field for alarm threshold value 

Displays the voltage of Falcom STEPP’s internal 

Battery voltage (4) 

battery 

RESET alarm information (5) Resets the alarm displays 

GSM operator (6) and 

registration information (7) 

Field strength (8), (9) 

Table 14: Status window 

Displays the information on the GSM provider 

(6) and the registration status of the GSM 

modem (7), which can be transmitted through the 

GSM-Event. 

Displays information in a progress bar (8) on the 

field strength in dbm (9), which can be 

transmitted through GSM event. 

The status window will clearly display all status information received, either 

from a directly connected Falcom STEPP, or from one communicating via a 

data line. 


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In the upper part you will find the status LED’s (1) for: 

• Status of alarm inputs 

• Status of ignition line (clip 15 ignition lock) 

• Status of vehicle battery (alarm for missing vehicle battery voltage) 

• Status of outputs 

• Tension values at analogue inputs 

• Voltage of Falcom STEPP’s internal device battery 

The transmitted information through the “GSM event protokol” will be 

automatically displayed in the corresponding fields when the protocol is 

activated. In case of an incoming Event protocol the LED, which is located at 

the right side of the field strength indicator, will begin to glow. 

When alarm information is received, the respective LED’s will change to RED. 

In order not to loose any alarm information, the status will remain in this 

condition until the “Reset alarm information” button has been clicked on. 

In fields 2 and 3, comparative values can be entered. If exceeded (“>” button) 

or falling below (“


From time (4) 

Table 15: History window 

Determines the time of the history start from the date 

chosen in (1) 

The history window enables you to retrieve stored GPS history data either from 

a directly connected Falcom STEPP or from one communicating via a data 

line. 

To select, please apply the following steps: 

1. In field (4), choose the desired starting time from when you want the 

history data. 

2. Enter the maximum number of GPS positions to be loaded from the 

history file of Falcom STEPP in the field “positions to load max.”. 

Warning 

Please note that the history file of Falcom STEPP can save up to 

100.000 GPS positions. 

This is equivalent to 3-4 Mbytes of data. The transfer of such data 

volumes with a data transfer speed of 9600 bps via the GSM network 

takes a long time. Therefore it is advisable to set the number of data 

sets as close as possible to the actual required number (selection in 

field 2). 

3. Start the history request by double-clicking on the desired calendar date in 

the calendar field. 

By double-clicking on a date of calendar field a “Save As” dialog for saving 

files will display. When the user clicks Save button on the “Save As” dialog, 

the dialog closes and the entered file name (i.e. History_03_10_03.log) will be 

stored in the selected directory path. See figure below. 


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The command to select history data could be: 

$PSRF109,0,031103,162849*33 

• to select history data from 03.11.2003 

• from the time 16:28:49 

• in NMEA format (0) 

A Checksum calculator is integrated into the STEPPconfig in order to support 

your progress in the practical application. This will aid you in calculating the 

checksum (in example *33), which is required for all extended NMEA 

commands (see chapter 4.2.2). 

The Checksum calculator is started via the menu option “Service mode – 

CheckSum - Calculator”. 

It is possible to transfer the stored data to the GPS port of a suitable map 

software program (Map&Guide®, Infomap®, Microsoft®-MapPoint® or 

another). This can be done with the included “send history” tool, which is 

started by clicking on the “send history to COMxx” button (3). 

4.3.5 Send History Tool 

The “history tool” will open when clicking on the “send history to COMxx” 

button (3) in the history window. 

This tool allows you to send saved history log files, such as “history.log” or 

“alarm.log” (see below), to the configured serial port, as described in chapter 

3.2.1.2. 


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Image 21: History Tool 


Terminal window (1) Display of data sets of a read in log file 

LED’s (2) 

Transfer rate (msec.) (3) 

Signalising LED’s – Data transfer to serial port is 

active 

Transfer delay between two data sets (50 msec. .. 1 

sec.) 

Records display (4) Number of read in data sets from “*.log” 

Progress display (5) 

Counter (6) 

Read log file (7) 

Shows the progress during transfer of data sets to the 

serial port 

Displays the number of data sets still to be 

transferred 

Opens a dialogue window with a selection of log files 

to be transferred 

Send log file (8) Starts the transfer of data sets to serial port 

Cancel (9) Cancels the transfer of data sets to serial port 

Exit (10) Closes the history window 

Table 16: History tool 

STEPPconfig uses the following log files: 

“History.log”-File 

This file is generated automatically by STEPPconfig when the history 

storage is selected. 

The file has the following format: 


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[FalcomSTEPP-History-File generated: 1/28/2003] 

Position1=$GPGGA,095150.000,5040.4014,N,01058.8657,E,1,04,1.0,494.6,M,,,,0000*0D 

Position2=$GPRMC,095150.000,A,5040.4014,N,01058.8657,E,,,280103,,*03 

Position3=$GPGGA,095200.000,5040.4014,N,01058.8657,E,1,04,1.0,494.6,M,,,,0000*0B 

Position4=$GPRMC,095200.000,A,5040.4014,N,01058.8657,E,,,280103,,*05 

Position5=$GPGGA,095210.000,5040.4014,N,01058.8657,E,1,04,1.0,494.6,M,,,,0000*0A 

“Alarm.log”-File 

When an alarm SMS is received, STEPPconfig will create this file with an 

attached GPS position. 

The file has the following format: 

[SMSalarms] 

1/9/2003 10:27:36 

AM=$GPGGA,092648.343,5040.3946,N,01058.8645,E,1,06,1.5,487.4,M,,,,0000 

1/9/2003 10:40:18 

AM=$GPGGA,093930.058,5040.3968,N,01058.8613,E,1,07,1.3,488.0,M,,,,0000 

1/9/2003 1:28:07 

PM=$GPGGA,122718.903,5040.3980,N,01058.8646,E,1,06,1.3,494.3,M,,,,0000 

To send a saved log file via the serial port to a map software, please 

proceed as follows: 

1. Click on the “read logfile” button (7), and from the subsequent 

dialogue box, choose the log file to be sent. 

The data sets contained in the file will display in the terminal 

window (1), and the number of data sets in the file will display in the 

field “records” (4). 

2. Click on the “send logfile” button (8) to send the log file to the COM 

port as defined under “Settings” (see chapter 3.2.1.2). 

You can cancel the task any time by clicking on “cancel” (9). 

If you double-click on one of the data sets shown in the terminal 

window (1), any previously started transfer will be terminated and 

the chosen data set sent to the serial port. 

3. Exit closes the “History Tool” window 

4.3.6 Alarms window 


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Image 22: Alarms 


Acoustic alarm signal (1) 

Switches the acoustic signal for received alarm 

messages on and off. 

max. entries in alarm history 

(2) 

Maximum number of alarm messages which can 

be stored in the FalcomSTEPP.ini. 

Value span 10..100 

RESET alarm information (3) 

Reset alarm display. 

This functionality is the same as the “Reset alarm 

information” button from table 13 

Delete SMS-alarm-logfile(4) 

Deletes a possible alarm log file alarms.ini in the 

program path of STEPPconfig 

alarm messages (5) 

All received alarm messages are listed in this 

window 

Table 17: Alarm window 

All received SMS alarm messages are displayed in the Alarms window. 

In addition to being displayed in the window, the received alarm messages are 

saved in the FalcomSTEPP.ini file. 

In accordance with the setting in field (2) “max entries in alarm display”, when 

exceeding the selected value, the list of received alarms will be deleted and the 

respective entries in FalcomSTEPP.ini removed. 

If GPS – NMEA protocols are part of an alarm message, the received positions 

will be saved in the Alarm.log file for future evaluation. 

An existing alarm log file can be deleted by clicking on the “Delete SMS alarm 

logfile” button (4). 

The “Reset alarm information” button (3) has the same function as the 

corresponding button in the “Status” window. 

Status information received by SMS is reset. 

4.3.7 Satellites window 

Image 23: Satellites 


Protocol (1) Displays the most recently received NMEA protocols 

SatPos (2) 

Opens a window (image 24) with an orbital display 

of the current visible satellites 


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in view (3) Number of visible satellites 

Time (4) Displays GPS time 

Date (5) Displays GPS date 

Latitude (6) Co-ordinates - Latitude 

Longitude (7) Co-ordinates - Longitude 

display (8) Displays protocols valid / invalid 

Satellite Level (8) 

Table 18: Satellite status 

Displays the quality of reception of all visible 

satellites 

When activating the field “SatPos” (2), the window “Satellites in view” (Image 

24) will open. 

This window shows the positions obtained from the $GPGSV protocol from 

the current visible satellites in orbit. 

Please note 

4.3.8 Info window 

The accuracy of the GPS data depends on the number of satellites and 

their positions in orbit. The greater the number of visible satellites, and 

the higher they are above the horizon, the more accurate the GPS data 

becomes. 

Image 24: Satellite positions (example) 

By clicking on the “Info…” tab, a window will open which gives you general 

guidelines for installing a Falcom STEPP. 


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Image 25: Info 


STEPP communication in 

general (1) 

Installation instruction (2) 

Installation audio accessories 

(3) 

Table 19: Info window 

Basic concept for implementation of a Falcom STEPP 

Installation instructions for installing a Falcom 

STEPP in a vehicle. 

Installation instructions for audio channels 

In the left part of the Info window you will find 3 buttons, which will give you 

some general information for the installation of a Falcom STEPP. 

Please note: 

The information provided in the Info window are short kept short, and in no 

way can replace the detailed hardware instructions (“stepp_1.06_hw.pdf”) 

for a Falcom STEPP. These instructions are available for download from the 

Falcom homepage. 

Image 26: Practical operation of a Falcom STEPP - general 

Image 26 shows a graphic of the basic concept for a possible practical scenario 

of a Falcom STEPP. It is implied that a vehicle fleet can be overseen via a 

GSM network from an operations centre in the STEPPconfig or via your own 

server application. 


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It is thereby possible to keep track of or request a vehicle’s position, and 

visualise this in a map software. 

This scenario was tested with Map&Guide8® and Infomap7® software 

packages. 

However, in principle it should be also possible to use other map software, 

provided these are able to receive and depict NMEA protocols ($GPGGA, 

GPRMC) with 9600 bps via a serial port. 

Image 27: Connection illustration for a Falcom STEPP 

Image 27 shows a connection illustration for a Falcom STEPP to be built 

into a vehicle. 

Please note: 

Before installing a Falcom STEPP, please read the hardware description 

for a Falcom STEPP carefully. The contained guidelines, in particular 

concerning the tension area as well as the connections for the inputs and 

outputs of a Falcom STEPP, are important for the correct and safe 

operation of the device in the vehicle. 

4.3.9 Audio channels 

Falcom STEPP is equipped with two audio channels (Image 28). 

• Voice channel 

• Alarm channel 

Both the alarm channel and the voice channel can be activated by a caller 

(the easiest way is by clicking on the “Voice Call” button (7) in the Remote 

window) via a connected Falcom SWING, as well as by the Falcom STEPP 

when activated by an alarm call. 

In order to activate the voice channel or alarm channel for an alarm input, it 

is necessary that the respective alarm input has been flagged with “V”oice 

or “A”larm. 


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4.3.9.1 Voice channel 

Image 28: Connection illustration of audio channels 

The voice channel of Falcom STEPP allows you to conduct a normal telephone 

conversation. For this, Falcom STEPP operates in free-speech mode. 

Requirements are to connect a loud speaker (pins 9 and 10) and a free-speech 

microphone (pins 7 and 8) to the audio interface of the Falcom STEPP. 

Falcom STEPP will automatically answer an incoming call after the second or 

third ring. 

Please note: Condition for receiving an incoming call is that the caller’s 

number has been configured with the “Voice” flag in the list of 

authorized numbers for Falcom STEPP. 

4.3.9.2 Alarm channel 

The alarm channel allows you to establish a voice line to a Falcom STEPP, 

without activating the loud speaker connected to the Falcom STEPP (listen-in 

mode). 

In this case, plug a free-speech microphone (pins 1 and 3) into the 16-pin 

Molex plug connector to the audio interface on the Falcom STEPP. 

Please note: Condition for receiving an incoming call is that the caller’s 

number has been configured with the “Alarm” flag in the list of 

authorized numbers for Falcom STEPP. 


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5 Tracking 

5.1 History function. 

When receiving valid GPS protocols, Falcom STEPP is capable of saving up to 

100.00 GPS protocols in its history memory. 

When the memory space has been used up, the oldest protocols will 

automatically be deleted to make space for new incoming data. 

Image 29 shows a logical flow chart, for better understanding how Falcom 

STEPP saves history data. 

No 

No 

No 

No 

No 

Fix Position 

enable ? 

Yes 

X* 

SV solution? 

Yes 

>Min 

Time? 

Yes 

>Min 

Distance? 

Yes 

>Min 

Speed? 

Yes 

Store data on 

Flash memory 

END 

Image 29: History Filter 

History - Filter 

No >Max No >Max No 

Time? 

Distance? 

>Max 

Speed? 

End 

Yes End Yes End 

Yes 

*) X >= 3; 


Page 66


Taking the illustrated logic into consideration, several varieties of saving 

history data are possible. 

Configuration is done via the Configuration Tool (Image 9 and Table 5), 

heeding the following configuration examples: 

5.1.1.1 Filter Settings 

By configuring supplementary filters, the history function offers the possibility 

to reduce the number of stored data records. These filters prevent the history 

from storing unnecessary data, e.g. if a vehicle is not moving. 

To set these filters, a configuration command can be sent to the device either 

locally (by connecting the device to a PC, whereby only NMEA messages are 

available for use) or over-air (GSM network, whereby both SMS commands 

and NMEA messages can be set via SMS). 

5.1.2 Configuration examples 

The following will explain the use filters for time, distance and speed. 

The respective minimum values for time, speed and distance have an ANDconjunction, 

meaning that if only value does not apply, then all three values are 

ignored and not saved in the history. 

The maximum values have an OR-conjunction. If one of the maximum 

parameters has been met, the GPS protocols will be saved in the history. 

In accordance with the above flow chart, either all minimum parameters or just 

one maximum parameter have to be exceeded, and the NMEA protocols are 

stored in the history (see also Image 11). 

If a value has been set to 0, it will be ignored. If all values are set to 0, or if the 

selection field “Logging enabled” of the Configuration Tool is deactivated, 

then no data will be saved in the history. 

Parameter explanation: 

The parameters used in examples below such as the FixMin Time, FixMax 

Time, Dist.Min, Dist.Max, SpeedMin and Speed Max correspond to the 

, , , , and used in the SMS 

commands and NMEA messages respectively. 

Minimum (lowest value) Maximum (highest value) 

Time filter FixMinTime (Seconds) FixMaxTime (Seconds) 

AND OR 

Distance filter Dist.Min (Meters) Dist.Max (Meters) 

AND OR 

Speed filter SpeedMin (km/h) SpeedMax (km/h) 

Combination of both OR 

Storing of protocol 

Table 20: Conditions for saving data in the history 

FixMin 

Time [s] 

FixMax 

Time [s] 

Dist. 

Min[m] 

Dist. 

Max [m] 

SpeedMin 

[km/h] 

Speed 

Max [km/h] 

Logs every 10 sec. 0 10 0 0 0 0 

Logs every 100 m 0 0 0 100 0 0 


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Logs every second at 

speed ≥ 40 km/h 

Table 21: Programming example 

Examples of history configuration 

0 0 0 0 0 40 

Below are some configuration examples, which can be entered directly in the 

configuration tool. 

Example 1 

� Record every 50 m if the vehicle has a speed less then 25 km/h 

� Record every 2 sec. if the vehicle is moving at a speed between 25 and 

50 km/h 

� Record every second if the vehicle is driving faster than 50 km/h 

FixMin 

Time [s] 

FixMax 

Time [s] 

Dist.Min 

[m] 

Dist.Max 

[m] 

SpeedMin 

[km/h] 

Speed 

Max [km/h] 

Example 1, settings 2 0 0 50 25 50 

SMS command &CNF [PWD] UNIT MSG=S132345678,4,2,0,0,50,25,50,RMCIOP 

NMEA message $PSRF108,LOG=4,2,0,0,50,25,50*7A 

Example 2 

� Record every 50m if the vehicle is driving faster than 25 km/h 

FixMin 

Time [s] 

FixMax 

Time [s] 

Dist.Min 

[m] 

Dist.Max 

[m] 

SpeedMin 

[km/h] 

Speed 

Max [km/h] 



NMEA message $PSRF108,LOG=4,0,0,50,0,25,0*4D 


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Example 3 

� Record every 2 sec. if the vehicle is moving at a speed between 25 and 

50 km/h 

FixMin 

Time [s] 

FixMax 

Time [s] 

Dist.Min 

[m] 

Dist.Max 

[m] 

SpeedMin 

[km/h] 

Speed 

Max [km/h] 



NMEA message $PSRF108,LOG=4,2,0,0,0,25,50*4F 

Example 4 

� Record every second if the vehicle is driving faster than 50 km/h 

FixMin 

Time [s] 

FixMax 

Time [s] 

Dist.Min 

[m] 

Dist.Max 

[m] 

SpeedMin 

[km/h] 

Speed 

Max [km/h] 



NMEA message $PSRF108,LOG=4,0,0,0,0,0,50*7A 


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5.1.2.1 How to download the history records 

Stored GPS history data can be retrieved either locally (via serial link) or 

remotely (via data connection). An executable command, see chapters 6.5.3, 

can be sent to the device either locally or over-air (after a data call is 

established, a NMEA message can be sent to the STEPP device). 

If you are using any terminal program, please, refer to the used terminal 

program, how to capture the incoming data into a *.log file format. If you are 

using the SteppConfig, refer to chapter 4.3.5. 

After the GPS history data are successfully downloaded and captured into a file 

on PC, the evaluation of the stored records can be performed using mapping 

software (Map&Guide or another one) and a suitable user developed program 

(the user developed program reads the GPS data position from the stored *.log 

file and sent them to a COM port where the Map software is connected). To do 

this, open the map software and select and select the COM port where the data 

will be read. Start the user developed program and sent the read data from the 

*.log file to the COM port where the Map software is connected. The route by 

means of the GPS data position from the selected file is being displayed in the 

map. 

Please note that, if the stored records are in the binary format, they could not be 

accepted from the mapping software. A description about this format is 

attached in chapter 6.7. 


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5.1.2.1.1 NMEA and Binary history data 

The stored position data in NMEA format begins with $GPLOG,1,….. and 

ends with $GPLOG,0,….. which indicate the start date/time (29 October 2004 

08:51:06) and end date/time (29 October 2004 11:53:14). All records between 

the start and end records include the stored GPS position data. A description 

about the NMEA messages is attached in chapter 6.2.1. 

The stored position data in binary format also begins with $GPLOG,1,….. and 

ends with $GPLOG,0,….. which indicate the start date/time (29 October 2004 

08:51:06) and end date/time (29 October 2004 11:53:14). All record data 

between the start and end lines include the stored GPS data in the binary 

format. A description about this format is attached in chapter 6.7. This format 

offers a maximum data compression. 


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6 Configuration commands - for Falcom STEPP 

This chapter explains the configuration commands for Falcom STEPP. 

There are two categories of configuration commands: 

• Commands for SMS remote configuration 

• Commands for direct configuration of a Falcom STEPP connected to 

STEPPconfig 

In Table 22 you will find an overview of the commands for SMS remote 

configuration of a Falcom STEPP. 

Please note 

If a password has been defined for the device, then the user should send 

this password each time in the configuration SMS message, otherwise, 

the STEPP could not be configured remotely via SMS. 

The entered password which will be displayed in the corresponding input 

field (see “general parameters” image 9) is encrypted, applying a 160-bit 

key function. 

For example the user of Falcom STEPP has entered the password 

, the encrypted one, which will be displayed in its input field 

after the user has sent it to the Falcom STEPP, is . In order 

to configure the Falcom STEPP, please use the password. The 

encrypted one is unacceptable. 

Important: 

Important 1: 

Take into account, that all configuration commands sent to the 

STEPP (via SMS, data connection or locally) should be match 

exactly the parameter format (Sysntax) described in this manual. 

!!! Note that incorrect assigned parameter into a configuration 

command may carry the STEPP device into the instability 

conditions (such as the STEPP could not be available, could not 

pick up a voice call etc.) and its configuration can only locally be 

improved (via a direct connected STEPP device). 

To get a GPS fix, the vehicle should be in stationary state for about 

1 minute. By moving, while STEPP does not have a GPS fix, the 

TTFF (Time-To-Fist-Fix) could be delayed for several minutes. 

If the History function of the STEPP is enabled, the events of 

$GPIOP protocol will be automatically stored into the History after 

each Reset procedure occurred by the STEPP device. 


Page 72


6.1 SMS and PSRF Command syntax 

6.1.1 SMS Command syntax 

The SMS commands can be sent to the device same as a SMS text, but their 

format have to be considered. The "&CNF" or "&REQ" command header must 

be set at the beginning of each command line. In commands described below, 

the SMS password is indicated as [PWD] enclosed in square brackets or PWD, 

indicating that it is an optional field. 

Types of SMS commands: 

Command type Syntax Function 

Readable 

command 

Writable 

command 

Executable 

command 

Clear Command 

&REQ [PWD] CNF 


= 

&CNF [PWD] 

 

&CNF [PWD] 

 

6.1.1.1 SMS Command structure 

This command returns the currently 

set value of the parameter or 

parameters. 

This command sets user-definable 

parameter values. 

This command performs an event 

to the device. 

This command deactivates that 

parameter name (deletes the 

value(s)) which previously have 

(has) been specified. 

In table below you will find two types of the SMS commands, which can be 

sent to the STEPP device. 

� The SMS command including the parameter [PWD] has to be used, if 

the parameter [PWD] is already specified, otherwise the device will not 

accept commands without entering that password. 

� The SMS command excluding [PWD] parameter can be used, if the 

[PWD] parameter is empty (not specified from the user). 

All SMS commands have to be sent in uppercase (capital letter), otherwise, the 

configuration could not be accepted. If a sent command (via SMS, data 

connection or locally) is incorrectly typed (based on the structure in table 

below) by the user, the device ignores (refuses) that command and no 

configuration is performed or you may carry the STEPP device into the 

instability conditions. 

If more than one parameter (combining commands on the same writable 

command line) should be sent within a command (SMS message), they should 

be separated by colons “:” (indicated as [:]). The square brackets have to be 

omitted when you input that command. 

IIf a command (message including one of the parameter name 

) is sent without value then the corrent status (value) of that 

parameter stored into the FLASH memory will be deleted (deactivated), except 

the “&REQCNF” read command. 


Page 73


The string included in the command structure indicates that the 

command header and/or parameter has to be separated by spaces (“ “). 

Do not use the quotation marks if a is a character string, e.g. . 

Types of SMS commands: 

Command type Structure 

&REQ[PWD]CNF 

Readable command or 

&REQCNF 

&CNF[PWD]UNIT 

= ,,…. 

Writable command or 

&CNFUNIT 

=,, …. 

&CNF[PWD]UNIT 

= ,,….[:] 

=, ,….[:] 

Combining 

…. 

commands on the 

or 

same writable 

&CNFUNIT 

command line 

=,,….[:] 

=, ,….[:] 

…. 

&CNF[PWD] 


The checksum consists of a “*” character followed by two hex 

values. 

In order to calculate the Checksum, use your own application. Below a small 

source code written in Visual Basic: 

{*****************************************} 

Public Sub CheckSum(field As String) 

If field = “” then CS = “*” 

CS = 0 

For i = 1 to Len(field) 

CS = CS Xor Asc(Mid$(field, i, 1)) 

Next 

CS = Hex(CS) 

If Len(CS) =1 then 

CS = “0” & CS 

CS = “*” & CS 

END SUB 

{*****************************************} 

Therefore, the string over which the checksum has to be calculated is: 

field = PSRF, 

excluding “$”character. 

All fields in all proprietary NMEA messages are required, none are optional. 

All NMEA messages are comma delimited “,”. 

Types of NMEA messages: 

NMEA 

Message 

type 

Selectable 

message 

Writable 

message 

Executable 

message 

Syntax Function 

$PSRF103,,00,, 01 

 

$PSRF108, 

= 

$PSRF109, ,, 

,, 

 

6.1.2.1 NMEA messages improved structure 

This NMEA message select the 

supported messages which can be 

polled once, or setup for periodically. 

This NMEA message sets user- 

definable parameter values. 

This NMEA message sets userdefinable 

parameter values to 

download the stored history data. 

All NMEA messages have to be sent in uppercase (capital letter) otherwise the 

configuration could not be accepted. If a send message (via SMS, data 

connection or locally) is incorrectly typed by the user (based on the structure in 

table below), the device ignores (refuses) that command and no configuration 

is performed. Due to the incorrectly typed of NMEA message you may carry 

the STEPP device into the instability conditions. 

If more than one parameter (combining message on the same writable message 

line) has to be sent within a command (NMEA message), they should be 

separated by colons “:” (indicated as [:]). The square brackets have to be 

omitted when you input that command. 

If a parameter of NMEA message is sent without value to 

the device then this parameter is deactivated by setting a undefined value. 


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Different from the SMS command, the parameters of NMEA message are not 

separated by spaces (“ “). 

The Falcom STEPP acceptes following formats: 

Command type Structure 

Selectable Message $PSRF103,,00,, 01 

Writable Message $PSRF108,= 

Combining message 

on the same writable 

message line 

Executable message 

$PSRF108,=,,….[:] 

=, ,….[:]… 

 

6.1.3 Respond message structure 

Respond 

message 

type 

$PSRF109,,, ,, 

 

A SMS alarm report is presented in numeric and/or text format, which includes 

the parameters, marked with blue colour listed in table below. An improved 

description including example is attached in the table 4. 

If the responded message does not fit in (due to limited text length within a 

SMS of 160 characters) one SMS message, it is sent in several SMS messages. 

In this case, CNF is replaced by CNFxx, where xx is the message index starting 

from 00. In the last message, CNF is replaced by ENDxx. See the Example 2 in 

table below. 

From read 

command 

Types of response message: 

Example 1 

Structure 

+CMT: 

END 

= 

or 

+CMT: 

CNF 

= 

… 

… 

… 

+CMT: 

END 

= 

stepp CNF01 

NAME=stepp_II:LOG=3,1,900,0,0,0,0:GEO01=Langewiesen,1,5041 

stepp CNF02 PIN=1111:NMEA=9600-8N1,GGA.1,GLL.1,GSA.1, 

GSV.1,RMC.1,IOP.1,GS 

stepp CNF03 PORTS=P1#E,0,0,P2#Z,5,5,P3#A, 

0,0,P4#A,0,0:UNIT=FAL STEPP V1.6.2 

stepp END04 GPSFIX=5040.4012 1058.8418 782464386 3976357 

771535 4910975 


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From 

execution 

command 

(if an 

alarm is 

triggered) 

Example 2 

 

 

 

alfa_carAlarmImput1 

$GPRMC,103530.000,A,5040.3986,N,01058.8636, 

E,0.06,171.45,290903,,*04 

$GPIOP,11000001,00010000,4.82,3.69,4.06*72 

6.1.4 Combining commands on the same command line 

You may enter several SMS commands or NMEA messages on the same line. 

This eliminates the need to type the message header or NMEA message before 

each parameter configuration. Instead, it is only needed once at the beginning 

of the command line. Use a colon “:” as command delimiter. 

The command line buffer accepts a maximum of 160 characters due to the 

SMS limitation of 160 characters. If this number is exceeded, the sent 

commands will be ignored from the STEPP device or ERROR is returned. 

6.2 NMEA messages transmitted/selected by/to STEPP device 

The STEPP device transmits NMEA sentences every second, depending on the 

configuration. The identifiers for the NMEA messages transmitted by the 

STEPP device are listed below. Excepting GPIOP and GPGSM all other 

messages are based on the NMEA standard messages. 

� GPGGA GPS Fix Data 

� GPRMC Recommended Minimum Specific GPS Data 

� GPGSV GPS Satellites in View 

� GPGSA GPS DOP and Active Satellites 

� GPGLL Geographic Position in Latitude/Longitude. 

� GPIOP STEPP Device Input/Output Ports 

� GPGSM STEPP Device GSM Status. 

A full description and definition of the listed NMEA messages is provided in the 

next subsection of this section. 

6.2.1 Description of NMEA output messages 

The following table is intended as a quick reference to explain the formats 

used in the tables below. 

Format Description 

hhmmss.ss Time: hh hours, mm minutes, ss.ss seconds. 

ddmmyy Date: day dd, month mm, year yy. 

ddmm.mmmm Latitude: dd degrees, mm.mmmm minutes. 

dddmm.mmmm Longitude: ddd degrees, mm.mmmm minutes. 

dd.dddddd Latitude/longitude: dd.dddddd degrees. 

dd'mm'ss" Latitude/longitude: dd degrees, mm minutes, ss seconds 

x Integer. 


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xx Integer having exactly two digits (using leading zeros). 

x.x Number including fraction. 

hh Two-digit hexadecimal number (using uppercase A–F). 

bbbbbbbb Eight-digit binary number. 

a ASCII text. 

"a" ASCII text in quotation marks. 

Carriage return and line feed. 

The $GPGGA message includes time, position, GPS quality and number of 

satellites in use. 

Example: 

$GPGGA,133726.569,5040.4365,N,01058.5646,E,1,03,8.9,92.9,M,,,,0000 

*3F 

Format Example Description 

$GPGGA $GPGGA Start of sentence 

hhmmss.ss 133726.569 UTC time 

ddmm.mmmm 5040.4365 Latitude 

a N Latitude direction (N/S) 

dddmm.mmmm 01058.5646 Longitude 

a E Longitude direction (W/E) 

x 1 GPS fix quality: 

0: invalid 

1: GPS fix 

2: DGPS fix 

xx 03 Number of satellites in use 

x.x 8.9 Horizontal dilution of precision (relative accuracy 

of horizontal position) 

x.x 92.9 Altitude above mean sea level (geoid) 

M M Altitude units (meters) 

x.x Height of geoid above earth ellipsoid 

M Geoid height units (meters) 

x Time since last DGPS update (seconds) 

xxxx 0000 DGPS reference station ID 

*hh *3F Checksum 

End of message termination 

Table 1: The GPGGA message data format. 

The $GPRMC message includes time, date, position, course and speed data. 

Example: 

$GPRMC,133725.569,A,5040.4365,N,01058.5650,E,0.05,302.98,251004,,*00 


$GPRMC $GPRMC Start of sentence 

hhmmss.ss 133725.569 UTC time 

a A Position validity (A: valid, V: invalid or S*: Last 

stored valid position) 




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x.x 0.05 Speed (knots) 

x.x 302.98 Heading (degrees) 

ddmmyy 251004 Date 

x.x Magnetic variation (degrees) 

a Magnetic variation direction (W/E) 

*hh *00 Checksum 


Table 2: The GPRMC message data format. * See above. 

The $GPGSV includes the number of satellites in view satellite ID numbers and 

their elavation, azimuth and signal-to-noise ratio. 

Example: 

$GPGSV,3,1,10,05,79,067,39,30,63,277,35,14,37,269,,09,36,145,*78 

$GPGSV,3,2,10,24,28,098,36,06,24,212,,04,24,058,29,17,16,129,*7F 

$GPGSV,3,3,10,01,13,328,34,25,05,311,*74 


$GPGSV $GPGSV Start of sentence 

x 3 Number of messages (1 to 3) 

x 3 Message number (1 to 3) 

xx 10 Number of satellites in view (1 to 12) 

xx 01 Satellite PRN number 

xx 14 Satellite elevation (degrees) (00 to 90), may be null 

xxx 328 Satellite azimuth (degrees) (000 to 359), may be null 

xx 34 Satellite signal to noise ratio in dB (00 to 99), may be 

null 

25 Similar to 4–7 for next satellite, may all be null 





Table 3: The GPGSV message data format. 

The $GPGSA message includes the list of satellites being used. 

Example: 

$GPGSA,A,2,05,09,04,,,,,,,,,,13.4,8.9,10.0*3D 


$GPGSA $GPGSA Start of sentence 

a A Operating mode: 

M: Manual, operate in 3-D mode. 

A: Automatically choose 2-D or 3-D mode. 

x 2 Fix mode: 

1: Fix not available 

2: 2-D fix 

3: 3-D fix 


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xx,xx, . . . 05 PRN numbers of satellites in use (unused fields null) 

x.x 13.4 Position dilution of precision 

x.x 8.9 Horizontal dilution of precision 

x.x 10.0 Vertical dilution of precision 

*hh *3D Checksum 


Table 4: The GPGSA message data format. 

The $GPGLL message includes the latitude, longitude, UTC time of 

position fix and status.. 

Example: 

$GPGLL,5040.4025,N,01058.8342,E,113704.665,A*32 


$GPGLL $GPGLL Start of sentence 





hhmmss.sss 113704.665 UTC Position 

a A Position validity (A: valid, V: invalid or S*: invalid) 



Table 5: The GPGLL message data format. * See above. 

The $GPIOP message includes the status of the digital/analogue inputs and 

output ports. A detailed description is also attached in chapter 6.6. 

Example: 

$GPIOP,01000000,00000000,0.28,0.28,4.15*72 


$GPIOP $GPIOP Start of sentence 

bbbbbbbb 01000000 Inputs: 8–1 (1: on, 0: off) 

1–4: Inputs 1–4 

5–6: Unused 

7: Car battery status 

8: Ignition status 

bbbbbbbb 00010000 Outputs: 8–1 (1:on, 0: off) 

1–4: Outputs 1–4 

5 : always is set to 1, indicates the outputs 

are operational. 

6–8: Unused 

x.x 0.28 Analog input 1 (V) 

x.x 0.28 Analog input 2 (V) 

x.x 4.15 Backup battery level (V) 



Table 6: The GPIOP message data format. 


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The $GPGSM message includes the GSM operator and reception status. Keep 

in mind that the GPGSM message can be sent in one of three different modes. 

The first parameter after the message header $GPGSM identifies the mode on 

which the device is currently processing. Each of tables follow, recognizing the 

GPGSM message, specifies one of three modes. 

In the $GPGSM message the number of the caller will also be transmitted if the 

caller number is not available in the access/authorization list. 

Table below shows the mode 0 which indicates that the sentence gives the 

GSM module status. 

Example1: 

$GPGSM,0,1,0,"T-Mobile D",20,5518,4caa*32 


$GPGSM $GPGSM Start of sentence 

x 0 GSM status mode: 0 

b 1 Registration (1:registered, 0: unregistered) 

x 0 GSM status 

"a" "T-Mobile D" Network operator name 

xx 20 GSM field strength (0 to 31) 0: $-$113 dB 31: $-$51 

dB 

a 5518 Area code 

a 4caa Cell ID 



Table 7: The GPGSM message data format in GMS status mode. 

Table below shows the mode 1 which indicates that an SMS message was 

received. 

Example2: 

$GPGSM,1,+490172123456,"","My Message"*54 



x 1 SMS message received mode: 1 

a +49123456 Sender number 

"a" "" Sender phonebook entry 

"a" "My message" SMS message text 



Table 8: The GPGSM message data format in SMS message received mode. 

Table below shows the mode 2, which indicates that there was an incoming 

call. 

Example3: 

$GPGSM,2,V,+490172123456,""*11 


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x 2 Received call mode: 2 

a V Call type: 

D: data call 

V: voice call 

A: listen call 

a +49123456 Caller number 

"a" "" Caller phonebook entry 



Table 9: The GPGSM message data format in received call mode. 

6.3 Supported parameter 

The Falcom STEPP supports the following listed parameters 

. Each parameter name is distinguished as caption (section). 

Within a section you will find two tables; the first one indicates the 

= format (the command syntax); the second one 

shows the example(s) how the SMS command and/or NMEA message can be 

sent to the STEPP device. 

Keep in mind that, if one of following parameter name, described in the 

chapters below, is supposed to be sent via the NMEA message ($PSRF108), 

which is transmitted in the form of "sentences", then their format must be 

considered by the user. The sentence begins with "$" character, next come the 

four letters "talker ID" and three letter "sentence ID", followed by a number of 

parameters separated by commas, and terminated by a calculated checksum, 

and a carriage return/line feed. 

6.3.1 NAME 

Syntax NAME= 

SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

This parameter allows you to define or change the device name. 

 

It identifies the name of STEPP device. When the device sends a SMS 

message to the message sender or target phone number, it identifies 

itself using this identifier. 

How the parameter could be sent: 

&CNF PWD UNIT NAME=alfa_car 

&CNF UNIT NAME=alfa_car 

&CNF UNIT NAME 

$PSRF108,NAME=alfa_car*1D 

$PSRF108,NAME*05 

Notes 

• If the device name has already been set, each other message 

sent to the device overwrites the existed entry. 

• A SMS command sent without value deletes the existed entry. 


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6.3.2 PIN 

Syntax PIN= 

SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

The parameter lets the STEPP device store the entered PIN of the 

used SIM card. 

 

It specifies the PIN number of the used SIM card. This may be for 

example the SIM PIN to register onto the GSM network, or the SIM PIN 

to replace the current PIN number with a new one. 


Not supported 

$PSRF108,PIN=1321*69 

Notes 

• Successful PIN authentication only confirms that the entered PIN was 

recognized and correct. The PIN acception does not necessarily imply 

that the STEPP is registered to the desired network. Typical example: 

PIN was entered and accepted, but the STEPP fails to register to the 

network. This may be due to missing network coverage, denied network 

access with currently used SIM card, no valid roaming agreement 

between home network and currently available operators etc. 

• To verify the present status of network registration, please refer to the 

green LED states in the hardware manual of the STEPP device. The 

next way to verify if it is available, establisch remotely a voice or data 

call. 

• No PIN request is more pending, if the PIN number of used SIM card 

once has been specified and it is sent to the STEPP device. The STEPP 

stores that specified PIN and uses it upon request of the GSM part. No 

more PIN entery is required from your part, as long as the used SIM 

card is not replaced with a new one. 

• A SMS command sent without value deletes the existed entry. 

6.3.3 PWD 

Syntax PWD= 

This parameter allows you to define or to change the device password for 

SMS configuration. 

 

It specifies the password (string type) for the device configuration via 

SMS. The user-specified password protects the STEPP device from 

the prohibited accesses. Password consists of a string with a length 

upto 40 characters. 


Page 83


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 


&CNF PWD UNIT PWD=tommy001 

&CNF UNIT PWD=tommy001 

&CNF tommy001UNIT PWD 

$PSRF108,PWD=tommy001*2F 

Notes 

• If the device password has already been set, and the user would like to 

change it, the SMS command: 

&CNF tommy001 UNIT PWD=tommy002 

has to be sent to the device. 

• A SMS message sent to the device without value deletes the current 

password (assumed the password has already been set). 

6.3.4 RING 

Syntax RING= 

This parameter is intended for modifying on your own preferences the ring 

melody for voice calls. 

 

It chooses the type of ring melody. We have chosen to let you decide 

your own preferences when you start using ring melody. You have a 

choice of 10 different ring melodies. The ringer melody value 

can be set in the range of 0 to 10. 

If the value is set to 0, the loudspeaker plays no 

melody. If one of following values (1 to 9) is set, then each setting 

plays a different melody on the loudspeaker (audio output). 

To use the buzzer rather than the loudspeaker, set the value to 10. 


SMS &CNF PWD UNIT RING=2 

command &CNF UNIT RING 

NMEA $PSRF108,RING=2*1F 

message $PSRF108,RING*10 

Notes 

• If the ring melody has already been defined, and the user would like to 

change it, the SMS command: 

&CNF UNIT RING=8 

has to be sent to the device. 

• A SMS message sent to the device without value deletes the current 

value of the ring melody and set it to the factory setting 3. 


Page 84


6.3.5 PORT 

Syntax PORT=,, 

SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

This parameter is intended for changing the present status of the STEPP 

digital outputs. 

: 

It specifies the index of output ports. The index can be set from 1 to 4 

corresponding to the provided output ports of the Falcom STEPP 

respectively. 

: 

It specifies the trigger type, it can be set to A, E, I or Z. 

A = the user-specified PORT will be set to the OFF state. 

E = the user-specified PORT will be set to the ON state. 

I = the user-specified PORT will be set to E or A for a 

given time which means an impulse will be 

generated. 

Z = the user-specified the PORT will periodically be 

triggered to ON and OFF sates giving a periodic 

and impulses in second(s) respectively which 

means cyclic ON/OFF. 

 

Specifies the number of seconds for ON time period. 

: 

Specifies the number of seconds for OFF time period. 


&CNF UNIT PORT1=Z,1,1 

&CNF UNIT PORT2=E 

&CNF UNIT PORT3=A 

&CNF UNIT PORT4=I,2 

$PSRF108,PORT1=Z,1,1*4D 

$PSRF108,PORT2=E*51 

$PSRF108,PORT3=A*54 

$PSRF108,PORT4=I,2*45 

Notes 

• If the command &CNF UNIT PORT=I,5 (whereby the 

is not required) is sent to the device, the user-defined output 

alters its state from ON to OFF or vice versa for the user-specified 

time, independent of the output state. The software negates 

internally the regarding the current state of user-defined 

output PORT. 


Page 85


6.3.6 KEY 

Syntax KEY=,,, 

 

SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

This parameter is intended to configure the alarm inputs of the STEPP. 

: 

It specifies the index of the provided alarm inputs. The index can be 

set from 1 to 4 corresponding to the four digital inputs of the STEPP 

device respectively. The index 7 corresponds to the battery line and 8 

to the ignition line. See the hardware manual of the Stepp device. 

: 

It specifies the alarm type. It can be set to S, D, V or A corresponding 

to SMS, Data call, Voice call or Alarm (listen-in mode) call 

respectively, see also sections 4.3.9.1 and 4.3.9.2. 

: 

It specifies the phone number(s) where the alarm has to be sent. More 

than one number can be entered using a semicolon as a separator 

between two phone numbers. The field 

consists of a numeric with a length upto 100 digits. Remember the 

length of SMS, upto 160 characters (!). 

: 

It specifies the identification text which will be sent in case of alarm to 

the message sender or user-specified 

number, only if the alarm type is set to S (for SMS 

connection). The field consists of a string with a length upto 

40 characters. 

: 

It defines the output NMEA messages (see chapter 6.2) which will be 

sent to the message sender or user-specified 

number, only if the alarm type 

is set to S (for SMS). 

: 

It defines the edge that triggers the alarm. It can be set to: 

1 by rising edge, Low to High trigger state, 

2 by falling edge, High to Low trigger state or 

3 by both, High to Low or Low to High trigger states. 


&CNF UNIT KEY1=S0123456,alarm triggered in KEY1,RMCIOP,1 

&CNF UNIT KEY2=V0123456;01234678,,,2 

&CNF UNIT KEY3=D0123456,,RMCIOP,3 

&CNF UNIT KEY4=A0123456,2 

&CNF UNIT KEY4 

$PSRF108,KEY1=S0123456,alarm triggered in KEY1,RMCIOP*7C 

$PSRF108,KEY2=V0123456;01234678*0D 

$PSRF108,KEY3=D0123456,,RMCIOP*22 

$PSRF108,KEY4=A0123456*2A 


Page 86


Notes 

• If a digital input has already been configured, each other command sent 

to the device overwrites the existing configuration. 

• If an imput is configured to establish a voice or a data call the context 

of and fields can be removed (not required to be 

set). 

• If the field is not specified the alarm will be triggered by rising 

edge (Low to High state) of the user-defined input (default setting). 

• If the STEPP device is configured to establish a voice or a data call to 

target phone number and the target phone/mobile is switched off or it is 

already not registered in the GSM network, the STEPP device tries upto 

3 time to reach that phone number. In case of unsuccessfully 

connection, the STEPP ignores it. 

• If more then one phone number is specified in the 

field and the STEPP device is configured 

to establish a Voice or a Data call to target phone numbers, then it tries 

upto 3 time to reach one of the specified phone numbers. 

• To delete the present configuration of a digital input, a SMS command 

without value has to be sent to the device. 

6.3.7 IN 

Syntax IN= ,,, 

, 

This parameter is intended to configure the alarm analogue inputs of the 

STEPP. When the analog input goes beyond the or 

limits an alarm is trigered and STEPP sends a notification text 

on specified mobile phone with 

attached one or two protocols , if the type of GSM connection 

is set to S (for SMS connection). 

: 

The analog input index. The index can be set to 1 or 2 for the provided 

analog inputs respectively. 

: 


to a SMS, Data call, Voice call or Alarm (listen-in mode) call 

respectively; see also sections 4.3.9.1 and 4.3.9.2. 

: 

It specifies the phone number(s) where the alarm has to be sent. More 

than one number can be entered using a semicolon as a separator 

between two numbers. The field 

consists of a numeric with a length upto 100 digits. Remember the 

SMS length, up to 160-characters. 

: 

It specifies the identification text, which will be sent to the target 

phone number, only if the alarm type is set to S (for SMS 

connection). 

: 

It defines the minimum value before analog input triggered. 


Page 87


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

: 

It defines the maximum value before analog input triggered. 

: 

It defines the input NMEA messages (see chapter 6.2), which will be 

sent to the message sender, only if the alarm type is set to S 

(for SMS). 


&CNF UNIT IN1=S0123456,alarm in analogue input 1,2,4,IOP 

&CNF UNIT IN2=S0123456,alarm in analogue input 1,3,5,IOP 

&CNF UNIT IN2 

$PSRF108,IN1=S0123456,alarm in analogue input 1,2,4,IOP*14 

$PSRF108,IN2=S0123434,alarm in analogue input 2,3,5,IOP*10 

$PSRF108,IN2*37 

Notes 

• If an analogue input has already been configured, each other SMS 

command sent to the device overwrites the existing configuration. 

• If an imput is configured to establish a voice or a data call the context 

of and fields can be removed (not required to be 

set). 

• If the STEPP device is configured to establish a voice or a data call to 

target phone number and the target phone/mobile is switched off or it is 

already not registered in the GSM network, the STEPP device tries upto 

3 time to reach that phone number. In case of unsuccessfully 

connection, the STEPP ignores it. 

• If more then one phone number is specified in field and the STEPP device is configured to establish a 

Voice or a Data call to target phone numbers, then the STEPP tries upto 

3 time to reach one of the specified phone numbers. 

• To delete the present configuration of an analogue input, a SMS 

message without value has to be sent to the device. 

6.3.8 TEL 

Syntax TEL= 

This parameter allows you to determine the index in the authorized list 

where the phone number has to be saved. 

 

It specifies the entry index of list from 0 to 9 to save the given 

number. 

: 


to an SMS, Data call, Voice call or Alarm (listen-in mode) call 

respectively; see also sections 4.3.9.1 and 4.3.9.2. 

 

It determines the authorized network numbers. The specified phone 

number(s) may also be called “device administrator(s)” 


Page 88


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 


&CNF UNIT TEL0=S+49123456 

&CNF UNIT TEL1=V+49123457 

&CNF UNIT TEL2=A+49123458 

&CNF UNIT TEL3=D+49123459 

&CNF UNIT TEL3 

$PSRF108,TEL0=S+49123456*20 

$PSRF108,TEL1=V+49123457*25 

$PSRF108,TEL2=A+49123458*3E 

$PSRF108,TEL3=D+49123459*3B 

$PSRF108,TEL3*6C 

Notes 

• If you define at least one phone number into the authorised list, the 

access permissions are allowed only for that number(s) (i.e. except the 

authorised persons, no other person can access the STEPP device) 

• The access permissions are allowed for all users, if the authorised list is 

empty (i.e. unspecified persons who knows the phone number of the 

STEPP can access it). 

• Using the entry type the STEPP can establish different call types. 

• The STEPP allways compares the caller number with the number(s) 

stored in the autorized list, and if no identical numbers are found, calls 

could not be established. 

• If caller number is identical to one of the numbers stored in the 

autorized list, however the types are different, for example, the 

type of stored phone number is S (specified for SMS) and caller 

connection is a Voice, Data or Alarm type, the call could not be 

established. STEPP hangs-up that call and sends to the caller a SMS 

including GPS protocols. 

• If type connection is not specified, the number 

will be available only for Data call (default setting). 

• To delete a phone number from the authorised list, a SMS command 


6.3.9 VOL 

Syntax VOL=, 

This parameter allows you to adjust the loudspeaker and microphone 

volume levels. The values of the volume can be specified by entering one of 

the supported values in range of 0 to 15. 

: 

The speaker level value can be defined from 0 (silent) to 15 (loudest). 

: 

The microphone level value can be defined from 0 (silent) to 15 

(loudest). 


Page 89


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

6.3.10 LOG 



$PSRF108,VOL=10,12*44 

Syntax LOG=,,,,,, 

SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

Configuring triggers specifies to the STEPP device under what 

circumstances a position should be logged to memory. This parameter 

allows you to specify/modify the parameters of the history data. The history 

logging depends on the view satellites and the minimum or maximum time, 

distance and speed. If all minimum values or just one maximum value is 

exceeded, then the STEPP begins storing the NMEA protocols in the 

history. 

Once all parameters required for the new configuration have been specified, 

transfered (via SMS or locally) and accepted from the device, the STEPP 

begins to implement the parameters. 

New configurations take effect immediately, so they become permanently 

enabled until changed. 

 

It determines the minimum number of in view satellites able to start 

the history logging. 

 

It specifies the minimum time. The unit is second [s] 

 

It specifies the maximum time. The unit is second [s] 

 

It specifies the minimum distance. The unit is meter [m] 

 

It specifies the maximum distance. The unit is meter [m] 

 

It specifies the minimum speed. The unit is kilometer per hour [km/h] 

 

It specifies the maximum speed. The unit is kilometer per hour [km/h] 

How this command could be sent: 

&CNF UNIT LOG=4,5,3600,0,0,0,0 

$PSRF108,LOG=4,5,3600,0,0,0,0*7F 

Notes 

• To understand and to set properly the ,, and 

, , and parameters, please, refer to the 

chapter 5.1.2. In that chapter you will find detailed information. 


Page 90


6.3.11 ACK (c) 

• If all , and limits are exceeded, a history record 

will be stored. Any null value is ignored. 

• If any of ,, limits is exceeded, a history record 

will be stored. Any null value is ignored. 

Syntax ACK= 

This parameter enables you to activate/deactivate the confirmation of SMS 

sent by STEPP. If active it confirms successful receipt of a new message 

(SMS delivering or SMS status report) routed directly to the message 

sender. Device shall manually disable routing to the message sender by 

setting the value to zero. Default setting is 1. 

 

Indicates that new SMS status report whether or not has to be 

received. Following values are available for use: 

0 no indications (confirmations) are routed to the message 

sender. 

1 indications (confirmations) are routed to the message sender. 


SMS &CNF PWD UNIT ACK=0 

command &CNF PWD UNIT ACK=1 

NMEA $PSRF108,ACK=0*46 

message $PSRF108,ACK=1*47 

Notes 

• If value is set to 1, the STEPP device will send back a response 

to indicate the new configuration has correctly been received and upon 

success the result code representation “ OK” will be displayed 

to the message sender. If the sent command was a bad command or has 

a bad parameter the result code representation “ bad command” 

or “ bad parameter” will be displayed to the message sender 

respectively. The response message representation always corresponds 

to the sent command. 

• The device shall not send another result code to message sender until 

previous one is acknowledged (assumed the value has been set 

to 1). 

6.3.12 GPSRESET (c) 

Syntax GPSRESET= 

GPSRESET=, 

This parameter allows the STEPP device to reset the GPS core (in user 

defined interval of time). It will occur only if the STEPP is unable to 

c 

The Firmware 1.4 and greater versions support this parameter 

c 

The Firmware 1.4 and greater versions support this parameter. 

g 

The Firmware 1.6.5 and greater versions support this parameter setting 


Page 91


calculate a valid position due to the failure of satellites in view (less then 3 

satellites or other conditions). This procedure repeats itself until the valid 

position computation (a GPS-fix) of GPS receiver is completed. 

 

It specifies the number of minutes to reset the GPS core. The is 

an integer value, and its unit is minute. 

 

It specifies the startup-mode of integerated GPS receiver in the STEPP 

device. The GPS receiver can manually be initiated to one of three 

different start up modes specified in the . In order to 

perform one of three different start up modes the can be 

set to C, W or H corresponding to Cold, Warm or Hot start respectively. 

The default setting of startup procedure is set to H corresponding to the 

Hot start with a period of time of 10 minutes. 


SMS &CNF PWD UNIT GPSRESET 

command 

(c) =10 

&CNF PWD UNIT GPSRESET (g) =10,C 

NMEA $PSRF108,GPSRESET=10*2F 

message $PSRF108,GPSRESET=10,C*40 

Notes 

• After each GPS reset, a SMS message including the GPS position may 

be delivered from the device, if the user-defined configuration in the 

MSG or GEOMSG parameter is exceeded. The SMS message will be 

sent to the user-specified phone number in the or 

field respectively. 

• The GPS part resets itself (makes a hot start) every 10 minutes if no 

configuration is performed (= default setting) and if no GPS fix is 

obtained. The STEPP operating with firmware 1.6.2 and earlier 

versions performes Cold starts, only. 

• Please not that, the new parameter is supported by the 

firmware 1.6.5 and greater versions, only. 

6.3.13 GSMRESET (c) 

Syntax GSMRESET= 

This parameter allows the STEPP device to reset the GSM core (in user 

defined interval of time). 

 

Indicates the set time of reset. The is an integer value, and its 

unit is in minute. 


c 



Page 92


SMS &CNF PWD UNIT GSMRESET=3 

command &CNF PWD UNIT GSMRESET 

NMEA $PSRF108,GSMRESET=3*00 

message $PSRF108,GSMRESET*0E 

Notes 

• If a STEPP originated data call is set up (indicated by the result code 

“CONNECT 9600”) and no GPS protocols or data are being transmitted 

to the other call party, the STEPP device resets the GSM engine after 

user-defined timeout is exceeded. The countdown starts when the result 

code “CONNECT 9600” appears to the called party. 

• To stop the GSM reset, a SMS message without value has to be sent to 

the device. 

6.3.14 GSMWRST (h) 

Syntax GSMWRST= 

This parameter has the ability to reset the GSM engine (WAVECOM module) 

of STEPP device in interval of times. The reset occurs when the specified 

amount of time, determined by the property, has passed and no GSM 

activities are available at this time. 

 

It determines the amount of time, in minutes, that passes before the GSM 

engine initiates another reset. The is an integer value. The default 

value is 1440 (24 hour). 


SMS &CNF PWD UNIT GSMWRST=720 

command &CNF PWD UNIT GSMWRST 

NMEA $PSRF108,GSMWRST=720*00 

message $PSRF108,GSMWRST*0E 

Notes 

6.3.15 MSG 

• If the value is set to 0, the system deactivates the reset procedure. 

• If the parameter value is omitted, the STEPP resets this parameter to 

default value of 1440 min (=24 hour). 

Syntax MSG=,,,,,,, 

, 

This parameter can be used to configure the STEPP device for periodically 

delivering the GPS protocols. The configuration depends on the on view 

satellites and the minimum or maximum time, distance and speed. If all 

minimum values or just one maximum value is exceeded, then the STEPP 

triggers an alarm SMS to the specified phone number. 

h 

The Firmware 1.6.10 and greater versions support this parameter. 


Page 93


An SMS message is sent to the specified phone number when the 

minimum number of satellites is available and the condition specified in 

all , and values or just one of , and 

values are satisfied. The SMS message may contain up to two GPS 

protocols specified in the field. Messages are not sent more 

frequently than one message every 30 seconds (default setting). 

: 

It specifies the alarm type. It can be set to S, D, V or A corresponding to 

a SMS alarm, Data call, Voice call or Alarm (listen-in mode) call 


: 

It specifies the phone number where the alarm has to be sent. 

 

It specifies the minimum number of satellites in view (recommended > 3) 

 


 


 


 


 

It specifies the minimum speed. The unit is kilometers per hour [km/h] 

 

It specifies the maximum speed. The unit is kilometers per hour [km/h] 

: 

It defines the input GPS protocols, which will be sent to the message 

sender, only if the alarm type is set to S (for SMS). 


SMS &CNF [PWD] UNIT MSG=S132345678,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP 

command &CNF [PWD] UNIT MSG=S0125156105,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP 

NMEA $PSRF108,MSG=S132345678,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP*06 

message $PSRF108,MSG=S0125156105,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP*62 

Notes 

• If all , and limits are exceeded and minimum 

number of satellites is available, SMS messages will periodically 

be sent to the specified phone number. Any null value is ignored. 

• If any of , and limits is exceeded and minimum 



• To stop transferring of such protocols the command &REQ POS 0 or 

&CNF UNIT MSG (without parameters) has to be sent to the device. 

• The phone number can also be another participant 

(message receiver), different one from the message sender. The STEPP 

device transfers the GPS protocols to the assigned participant. This 

feature allows the specified participants to have knowledge of the 


Page 94


6.3.16 IGN (f) 

device location and/or device events (depending on the user-specified 

protocol(s)). This feature can be enabled from the device manager (one 

of the authorized phone numbers, if specified), without the need to 

enter the phone numbers of these participants in the authorized list. In 

this way the participants could not access the STEPP device. This 

feature can also be called “alarm forwarding”. 

Syntax IGN=,, 

This execute parameter has to be performed by monitoring an abandoned 

vehicle fitted with Falcom STEPP. Unimportant how the Ignition stauts is. By 

sending this command, the STEPP device generate automatically a Master 

region (GEO00) of a given value. The center of generated Master 

region is the current STEPP position. If the wehicle goes out of this Master 

region and the IGN signal is switched off, an alarm will be sent out to the predefined 

phone number. As long as the IGN signal is turned on, the generated 

Master region (GEO00) will be deleted, so there is no more vehicle monitoring 

available. But if the IGN signal will be switched off again, the STEPP device 

generates automatically the new Master region (GEO00) of existing 

value. The center of generated Master region will be the current STEPP 

position. 

Please note that, this cofiguration has more priority than &CNF [PWD] 

WATCH cofiguration. That means, if a Master region is already performed via 

&CNF WATCH command and the user performs a new one via &CNF UNIT 

IGN, then the &CNF WATCH configuration will exists as long as the Ignition 

does not alert its state. If Ignition alerts its state from ON to OFF, the &CNF 

WATCH configuration will be overwritten by &CNF UNIT IGN 


 

Not supported by the firmware. It can be set to zero (0). 

 

Optional positive number, unit is meter. Place the vehicle into a restricted 

circle zone, whereby the current position (including Latitude and 

Longitude) of the STEPP is the center of circle and is the 

radius of circle. 

 

String, the SMS message which will be delivered from the STEPP device 

to the target phone number specified by the GEOMSG 

parameter. This parameter is optional, up to 20 character can be set. 


f 



Page 95


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

&CNF [PWD] UNIT IGN=0,1000,Ignition-alarm 

&CNF [PWD] UNIT IGN=0,1000,Ignition-alarm:GEOMSG= 

S012345678,3,60,0,0,0,0,0,IOPRMC 

&CNF UNIT IGN 

&CNF UNIT IGN:GEOMSG 

$PSRF108,IGN=0,1000,Ignition-alarm*25 

$PSRF108,IGN=0,1000,Ignition-alarm:GEOMSG= 

S012345678,3,60,0,0,0,0,0,IOPRMC*52 

$PSRF108,IGN*42 

$PSRF108,IGN:GEOMSG*6C 

Notes 

• A SMS alarm message is issued, if the vehicle fitted with STEPP 

moves beyond the user-defined master region. Please, note that, if 

master region is activated, other set areas are deactivated. 

• If the value is set to 0, then the device deactivates the master 

region and automatically activates the other set areas (if defined). 

• !!!! Please note that you have to configure first the destination number 

where the SMS alarm should be sent to. This could be done by using 

the command: 

&CNF UNIT GEOMSG=S012345678,3,60,0,0,0,0,0,IOPRMC 

(this is only an example, other configuration events are also possible). 

Finally configure the Master region via SMS command. 

• In order to configure a Master region and set the GEOMSG settings at 

once (instead of the user at first configures the GEOMSG parameter 

and then initialize the Master region), you can send both parameters 

(split by colons [:]) the IGN and GEOMSG with corresponding settings 

on one line, (see example in table above). 

• To clear the present configuration of IGN, a SMS message without 

value has to be sent to the device. 

• The user may also clear the present configuration of IGN and 

GEOMSG at once, see the last example in the table above. 

• If the object (vehicle fitted with the FALCOM STEPP) enters (i) into the 

predefined master region, the SMS message delivered from the STEPP 

device to the target phone number specified by the 

GEOMSG parameter includes: 

- the device name (if predefined), 

- the header (GEO00), 

- the specified by the WATCH parameter and 

- closed by the user selected protocols either by the WATCH or 

GEOMSG parameter. 

e.g. 

+CMT: "+4917610022382",,"05/06/27,10:44:20+08" 

STEPP Ignition-alarm 

$GPRMC,084509.984,A,5040.3998,N,01058.8412,E,0.06,350.84, 

270605,,*05 

$GPIOP,11000000,00000000,0.71,5.25,4.11*73 

i 

Feature of the Firmware 1.8.14 and greater versions 


Page 96


6.3.17 GEOMSG 

• If the object (vehicle fitted with the FALCOM STEPP) leaves (i) the 





- the predefined text “GEO-ALARM 0” 

- closed by the user selected protocols either by the WATCH or 

GEOMSG parameter. 

e.g. 

+CMT: "+4917610022382",,"05/06/27,10:44:20+08" 

STEPP GEO-ALARM 0 

$GPRMC,084509.984,A,5040.3998,N,01058.8412,E,0.06,350.84,27 

0605,,*05 

$GPIOP,11000000,00000000,0.71,5.25,4.11*73 

Syntax GEOMSG=,,,,,, 

,, 

This parameter is the same one as the MSG parameter, however it must be used 

for geo-fencing configuration, only. That means a SMS message is sent to the 

specified phone number , and not to the phone number m_phone 

specified by the MSG parameter. Additionally, the parameter GEOMSG is 

independent of the MSG parameter configuration. 

A SMS message is sent to the specified phone number when the 

minimum number of satellites is available and the condition specified in 

all , and values or just one of , and 

values are satisfied. The SMS message may contain up to two GPS 

protocols specified in parameter. Messages are not sent more 

frequently than one message every 30 seconds. 

: 

It specifies the type of alarm. It can be set to S, D, V or A corresponding 

to a SMS alarm, Data call, Voice call or Alarm (listen-in mode) call 


: 


 


 


 


 


 


 

i 



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SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 


 


: 

It defines the input NMEA messages (see chapter 6.2) that will be sent to 

the message sender, only if the alarm type is set to S (for SMS). 


&CNF [PWD] UNIT GEOMSG=S132345678,4,60,0,0,0,0,0, RMCIOP 

&CNF [PWD] UNIT GEOMSG=S0125156105,4,60,0,0,0,0,0, RMCIOP 

&CNF UNIT GEOMSG 

$PSRF108,GEOMSG=S132345678,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP*4B 

$PSRF108,GEOMSG=S0125156105,4,60,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP*70 

$PSRF108,GEOMSG*16 

Notes 

• If all , and limits are exceeded and minimum 



• If any of , and limits is exceeded and minimum 



• To stop transferring of protocols the command &CNF UNIT 

GEOMSG (without parameters) has to be sent to the device. 

• The phone number can also be another participant 

(message receiver), different one from the message sender. The STEPP 

device transfers the GPS protocols to the assigned participant. This 

feature allows the specified participants to have knowledge of the 

device location and/or device events (depending on the user-specified 

protocol(s)). This feature can be enabled from the device manager (one 

of the authorized phone numbers, if specified), without the need to 

enter the phone numbers of these participants in the authorized list. In 

this way the participants could not access the STEPP device. This 

feature can also be called “alarm forwarding”. 

6.3.18 GEO (f) 

Syntax 

GEO=,,,,, 

, 

This parameter allows the STEPP device to determine an area (geofencing 

region). Up to 99 areas are possible. Chapter 4.2.3.1.5 gives more information 

about the features of geofencing. 

: 

The region index (00–99). The 00 region is the master region. 

: 

String, optional region name up to 20 characters are available. The text is 

sent in any message related to the respective region. 

f 



Page 98


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

: 

The region ID. Optional positive number that identifies an area. It can be 

same one for different areas that are overlapped to each other. 

,,,: 

The region boundaries. Three different formats for Latitude/Longitude 

can be used (degrees, minutes, secondes or decimal or NMEA format). 

For more information, see chapter 8.1. 

: 

Controls when to send periodical messages related to the region (in 

addition to the messages when a region boundary is crossed). Indicates 

the type of activation which can be set to: 

0 - the alarm is issued by leaving the defined zone. 

1 - the alarm is issued by entering into the defined zone. 

2 - the alarm is issued by entering and leaving the defined zone. 


&CNF UNIT GEO01=Ilmenau,01,50.69181,10.89674,50.67472,10.94447,0 

&CNF UNIT 

GEO02=Langewiesen,02,50.68175,10.95133,50.66715,10.98726,1 

&CNF UNIT 

GEO03=Manebach,03,50.68505,10.85257,50.67375,10.86674,2 

&CNF UNIT GEO03 

$PSRF108,GEO01=Ilmenau,01,50.69181,10.89674,50.67472,10.94447,0 

*1C 

$PSRF108,GEO02=Langewiesen,02,50.68175,10.95133,50.66715,10.98726 

,1*00 

$PSRF108,GEO03=Manebach,03,50.68505,10.85257,50.67375,10.86674,2 

*1C 

$PSRF108,GEO03*4C 

Notes 

• Please note that, to prevent the alarms SMS sent from the STEPP 

device after each geo-fencing area configuration, at first configure the 

geo-fencing area(s) via SMS, and finally configure the destination 

number where the SMS alarm should be sent to. It could be 

performed using the command: 

&CNF UNIT GEOMSG=S012345678,3,0,0,0,0,0,0,RMCGGA 

• Different possibilities can be combined when you specifying the control 

indicator in the command to be sent. 

• If the minimum time specified by the GEOMSG parameter is 

exceeded, SMS messages will periodically be sent to the message 

receiver as long as the device is entered in a restricted area. 

• To delete the present configuration of GEO, a SMS message 


6.3.19 DEL 

Syntax DEL= 

The responded SMS message from the STEPP device includes the end 

sequence between each of the , 


Page 99


SMS 

command 

NMEA 

message 

and as default setting, see 

chapter 6.1.3. The default delimiter can be replaced with user 

configurable delimiter by setting the DEL parameter to an ASCII value (i.e. 32 

for space and 13 for CR). 

Parameter Description 

: it specifies the ASCI code value. 


&CNF UNIT DEL=124 

$PSRF108,DEL=124*45 

Notes 

• Do not use this command, if not required. 

6.4 SMS configuration Commands– supported from firmware 

1.6.2 

To control your STEPP device you can simply send SMS commands over-air 

(GSM network). Please, keep in mind, the STEPP device works properly using 

SMS commands, only when PIN authentication of the used SIM card and basis 

configurations have locally been done (if PIN is required) and it is also 

registered in the GSM network. 

SMS messages described below can be used to configure the STEPP device, to 

request specific information via SMS such as the position and to instruct the 

device to initiate a GSM connection such as a data call. After the configuration 

is accepted and completed, the STEPP device sends back its information via 

SMS in various situations. The stored history data can be retrieved at a later 

time over-air via GSM data connection. Based on the user remote configuration 

the stored history data into the FLASH memory can also locally be received for 

further evaluation. 

The STEPP device offers two different access permissions that can be 

performed by using the SMS commands: 

• If a SMS password and/or at least one phone number is defined into the 

authorised list, the access permissions are allowed only for specific user 

(i.e. except the authorised persons, no other person can access the STEPP 

device) 

• If no SMS password and/or none phone number is specified into the 

authorised list, the access permissions are allowed for all user (i.e. 

unspecified persons who knows the phone number of the STEPP can 

access it). 

If a SMS password is defined, the STEPP device will not accept SMS 

commands without that password, so it should be included in SMS messages 

after the message header such as &REQ or &CNF. The SMS password is 

indicated as [PWD] or PWD, indicating that it is an optional field. 


Page 100


Additionally, the PWD parameter protects the STEPP device from the 

unidentified accesses. 

The device also provides four digital outputs, four digital inputs, two analog 

inputs and digital inputs for the ignition and battery status in a car. Each of the 

inputs can be configured to trigger the device to send a SMS message or 

initiate a data, alarm or voice call. 

All SMS commands have to be sent in uppercase (capital letter) otherwise the 

configuration could not be accepted. 

None of these SMS commands can be sent locally through serial interface to 

the device. These commands can only be sent as a SMS message (over GSM 

network). 

6.4.1 &CNF [PWD] UNIT NAME=VALUE[:NAME=VALUE] Write device 

configuration 


Command =:=...: 

= 

Examples &CNF PWD UNIT NAME=name 

&CNF PWD UNIT RING=2 

&CNF PWD UNIT PWD=password 

&CNF PWD UNIT PORT1=Z,1,1 

&CNF PWD UNIT KEY1=S123456,Alarm Input 1,RMC 

&CNF PWD UNIT TEL0=V+4912345678 

&CNF PWD UNIT VOL=10,12 

&CNF PWD UNIT LOG=4,5,3600,0,0,0,0 

&CNF PWD UNIT IGN=15 

&CNF PWD UNIT IN1= S123456,Alarm Analogue1,2,3,IOP 

&CNF PWD UNIT TEL1=S0123456:VOL=7,10 

&CNF PWD UNIT TEL1 


……. 

Command Description 

Using this command the STEPP device can be configured and a range of 

parameters can be set. Each parameter can be configured and adapted to the 

user requirements. 


 

It indicates that the inserted parameter name will be changed or new 

configured. It depends on the parameter name to be handled; please, refer 

to the chapter 6.3. In that chapter you will find more details about the 

supported parameter. 

The following parameter name can be used: 

NAME It allows you to define or change the device name. 

PWD It allows you to define or to change the device password. 

RING It is intended for modifying to your own preferences the 

ring melody for voice calls. 


Page 101


PORT It is intended for changing the present status of the STEPP 

digital outputs and its specifies the index of 

output ports. 

KEY It is intended for configuring the digital inputs of the 

STEPP and its specifies the index of digital 

inputs. 

IN It is intended for configuring the analogue inputs of the 

STEPP and its specifies the index of analoge 

inputs. 

TEL It allows you to define the phone numbers which have to 

be saved in the access/authorization list, and the 

specifies the entry index of list. 

VOL It allows you to adjust the loudspeaker and microphone 

volume levels. 

LOG It allows you to modify/set the parameters for the history 

data. 

ACK It allows you to activate/deactivate the confirmation of 

SMS sent by STEPP. 

GSMWRST() It allows the STEPP device to reset the GSM core in 

amount of time. 

Fehler! Verweisquelle konnte nicht gefunden werden. It allows you to 

determine the amount of time to wait for data 

transmission. 

MSG It allows you to configure the STEPP device for 

periodically delivering of GPS protocols. 

IGN It allows you to monitor an abandoned vehicle fitted with 


GEOMSG It allows you to configure the STEPP to get the geofencing 

messages periodically or only one-time. 

GEO It allows the STEPP device to determine an area 

(geofencing region). 

DEL It allows you to specifiy a delimiter in the received SMS 

messages. 

 

It specifies the value(s) of the entered parameter name. The value 

depends on the parameter name to be handled; please, refer to the chapter 

6.3. In that chapter you will find more details about the supported 

parameter. 

Notes 

• If more than one parameter has to be sent within a SMS message 

(command), they should be separated by colons [:]. In the table above, 

the type is used to initiate that type of GSM connection is SMS. 

The is the phone number to connect to and is the 

text to be sent. Keep in mind that the length of text within a SMS is 

limited to 160 characters. 

• If no authorized numbers are set, the device accepts all incoming calls 

and messages. To prevent the STEPP device from accepting all calls 

and messages, up to ten authorized numbers are available. 


Page 102


• If the type (if the entered parameter supports it) of GSM 

connection is set to D, V or A corresponding to a Data call, Voice call 

or Alarm (listen-in mode) call respectively, no text and protocol 

are required. 

• The values of the loudspeaker and microphone volumes recommanded 

to be specified at 6. 

• If a message including one of the aforementioned parameter is sent 

without value then the current status (value) of that parameter stored 

into the FLASH memory will be deleted (deactivated). 

• In the history of STEPP the events of $GPIOP protocol can also be 

saved. 

6.4.2 &CNF [PWD] PASS Define a password for SMS configuration 

Command &CNF [PWD] PASS 

Examples &CNF abd123 PASS gbdr1212 

&CNF PASS gbdr1212 

&CNF gbdr1212 PASS 

Command Description Define a password for the target device 

Use this command when you want individually to define or to change a 

password specified for the lock of unidentified accesses. A password 

consists of a string of numeric digits with a length in the range of upto 40 

characters. Additionaly, the password may also be configured using the 

PWD parameter name. Accordingly, the password may be called "device 

password". The password is not associated with the PIN of the SIM card. 


 

It specifies the password for the configuration by SMS. Password 

consists of a string with a length upto 40 characters. 

Notes 

• The unblocking procedure is performed, if no password value 

is allocated, whereby the old password [PWD] has to be 

included. If you have forgotten the parameter [PWD], the unblocking 

procedure is described in chapter 8.1.1. 

6.4.3 &REQ [PWD] POS [n] Request vehicle position with defined period 

Command &REQ [PWD] POS 

Examples &REQ PWD POS 0 

&REQ PWD POS 5 

&REQ POS 10 


Using this command the STEPP device position can be requested, either for 

just one time or periodically. The position (a SMS message containing the 

$GPGGA and $GPRMC NMEA sentences) is returned to the message 

sender. 


Page 103



 

Request device (vehicle) position every minute(s). 

Notes 

• If no period is given (it is omitted), the position (GPGGA and 

GPRMC) is sent once and the MSG parameter remains unmodified (h) . 

• If a period is specified (in seconds), the on the MSG 

parameter is also modified so that the position is sent periodically. 

• If the period is set to 0, the system responds OK and it stops 

sending of periodic messages. The MSG parameter gets modified (h) . 

6.4.4 &REQ [PWD] POS (c) Configure and request vehicle position with 

defined period 

&REQ [PWD] POS 

Command 

,,,,,,, 

Examples &REQ PWD POS 4,0,0,0,0,0,0,RMCIOP 

&REQ PWD POS 4,0,0,0,50,25,50,RMC 

&REQ PWD POS 4,30,0,0,50,25,50,RMC 

&REQ PWD POS 4,60,0,0,50,25,50,GGAIOP 

&REQ POS 4,60,0,0,50,25,50,GGAIOP 


Using this command the STEPP device can be configured and based on the 

user limited configuration. It is able to implement it and in case of limited 

configuration is exceeded, the STEPP sent the position requested by the user; 

either for just one time or periodically (depends on the user set value). 

The position (a SMS message containing one of possible combination of 

NMEA sentences, e.g. $GPRMC and $GPIOP) is returned to the message 

sender every second(s). 

To understand and properly set the following parameters, please, refer to the 

chapter 6.3. In that chapter you will find detailed information about the set 

parameters. 


 


 


 


 


 


 

h 


h 


c 

The Firmware 1.4 and greater versions support this SMS command. 


Page 104



 


: 

It defines the input GPS protocolls that will be sent to the message 

sender. The STEPP device can send a set combination of provided 

NMEA sentences every user defined time. 

Notes 

• If the STEPP is unable to calculate a valid position due to the satellites 

in view (less then 3 satellites), und the device is configured to send 

periodically the messages, then it stops sending of messages, und when 

a valid position is being obtained it starts again sending out of user 

defined messages. 

• The parameter has to be ≥ 30. 

• The parameter has to be ≥ 4 

• If the number of satellites is set to 0 the STEPP device ignores all 

other parameters and sends out to the message sender the $GPGGA and 

$GPRMC protocols, only. 

• Keep in mind, if the &REQ [PWD] POS command (with user-defined 

parameters) is sent to the STEPP device, the MSG parameters are also 

modified. The difference between the &REQ [PWD] POS command 

and the MSG parameter is: 

The STEPP device transfers the user-defined GPS protocols only to 

message sender, if the &REQ [PWD] POS (with parameters) is sent 

to the STEPP device. 

Using the MSG parameter, the STEPP device transfers the userdefined 

GPS protocols to the specified phone number 

which can also be another message receiver, different one from the 

message sender. 

• If the parameter is set to “0” the SETPP II will send a single 

message to the message sender. 

6.4.5 &REQ [PWD] CNF Read the configuration of device 

Command &REQ [PWD] CNF 

Examples &REQ PWD CNF 

Respond 

SMS 

stepp_II CNF01 NAME=stepp_II:LOG=3,1,900,0,0,0,0:GEO01=Langewiesen,1,5041 

stepp_II CNF02 PIN=1111:NMEA=9600-8N1,GGA.1,GLL.1,GSA.1,GSV.1,RMC.1,IOP.1,GS 

stepp_II CNF03 PORTS=P1#E,0,0,P2#Z,5,5,P3#A,0,0,P4#A,0,0:UNIT=FAL STEPP V1.6.2 

stepp_II END04 GPSFIX=5040.4012 1058.8418 782464386 3976357 771535 4910975 


Using this command the STEPP device delivers to the message sender in 

one or more SMS messages whole configuration settings stored in the 

internal FLASH memory. If parameter PWD is already specified, the PWD 

value will not be delivered from the device. 

Notes 

• If the configuration does not fit in (due to limited text length within a 

SMS of 160 characters) one SMS message, it is sent in several SMS 

messages. In this case, CNF is replaced by CNFxx, where xx is the 


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message index starting from 00. In the last message, CNF is replaced by 

ENDxx. See respond messages in table above. 

6.4.6 &REQ [PWD] CONNECT Initiate a return call as a data call 

Command &REQ [PWD] CONNECT 

Examples &REQ PWD CONNECT 1234567 

&REQ CONNECT +491234567 

&REQ PWD CONNECT 0221345789 

&REQ PWD CONNECT 


Using this command the STEPP device can be instructed to start a GSM 

connection. It initiates a return call from the device as a data call and 

transfers the set GPS protocols. 

The target phone number can also be other receiver (not the message 

sender). The STEPP device will transfer its GPS positions to the target userspecified 

phone number. 


 

It specifies the target phone number where the GSM data connection has to 

be established. The specified call number should to be for data call. 

Notes 

• If no number is given, the device will start a data connection to the 


6.4.7 &REQ [PWD] PHONE [phone] Initiate a listen or voice call 

Command &REQ [PWD] PHONE 

Examples &REQ PHONE1 0123405 

&REQ PHONE2 0123045 


Using this command the STEPP device can be instructed to start a GSM 

connection. It initiates a return call from the device as an alarm or voice call. 

The target phone number can also be other receiver (not the message 

sender). The STEPP device will establish an alarm or voice call to the target 

specified phone number. Please, refer to the chapter 4.3.1.2.1 and 4.3.1.2.2 

for more information about the voice and alarm calls. 


 

It specifies the entry index of call connection type. The following values are 

supported: 

1 initiates a return call from the device as an alarm (listen-in mode) 

call 

2 initiates a return call from the device as a voice call 

 


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It specifies the target phone number where the GSM call connection has to 

be established. The specified call number should to be for voice call. 

Notes 

• If no number is given, the device will start a voice or alarm call to the 


6.4.8 &REQ [PWD] START [latitiude],[longitude] Request vehicle position 

every defined period (d) 

Command &REQ [PWD] START , 

Examples &REQ PWD START 

&REQ PWD START 50.70 10.98 


The GPS system can be reset to a particular latitude and longitude using 

this SMS message. This command resets the GPS receiver and GSM 

engine of the STEPP as well. 


 

It specifies the Latitude of the device. Its unit is degree. 

 

It specifies the Longitude of the device. Its unit is degree. 

Notes 

• If the message sender knows the coordinates of the STEPP device, the 

latitude and longitude can be specified for a quick position fix. 

6.4.9 &CNF [PWD] WATCH [radious],[text] (f) Set a master region 

Command &CNF [PWD] WATCH , 

&CNF [PWD] WATCH ,,,, 

,,,, ,, (g) 

Examples &CNF PWD WATCH 200,enters the zone 

&CNF PWD WATCH 200,enters the zone,S0125156105,4,0,0,0,0, 

0,0,RMC 

&CNF PWD WATCH 0 


This SMS command can be performed by monitoring an abandoned vehicle 

fitted with STEPP device. Sending this command, the STEPP device 

generates automatically a Master region (GEO00) with a given 

value. The center of generated circle region is the current STEPP position. If 

the wehicle goes out of this Master region, an alarm will be sent to the predefined 

phone number from the GEOMSG parameter. 

The firmware 1.6.5 and greater versions support the GEOMSG settings to 

be included into the &CNF WATCH as one line (command). So a Master 

region can be configured at once, instead of sending at first the command 

d 

The Firmware 1.05 and greater versions support this SMS command. 

f 


g 

The Firmware 1.6.5 and greater versions support this parameter settings 


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GEOMSG parameter and then initialize the Master region via &CNF 

WATCH (feature of the firmware 1.6.2 and earlier versions) by using two 

separated SMS. 


Optional positive number, unit is meter. Place the vehicle into a 

restricted circle zone, whereby the current position (including 

Latitude and Longitude) of the STEPP is the center of circle and 

is the radius of circle. 

String, the SMS message which will be delivered from the STEPP 


GEOMSG parameter. This parameter is optional, up to 20 

character can be set. 

 

It specifies the type of alarm. It can be set to S, D, V or A corresponding 

to a SMS alarm, Data call, Voice call or Alarm (listen-in mode) call 

respectively, see also section 4.3.1.2.1 and 4.3.1.2.2. 

 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

It defines the input NMEA messages (see chapter 6.2) that will be sent to 

the message recipient, only if the alarm type is set to S (for 

SMS). 

Notes 

• A SMS alarm message is issued, if the vehicle fitted with STEPP 

moves beyond the user-defined master region. Please, note that, if 

master region is activated, other set Geo-fencing areas are deactivated. 

• If the value is set to 0, then the device deactivates the master 

region and automatically activates the other set Geo-fencing areas (if 

defined). 

• !!!! Please note that, operating with firmware 1.6.2 and earlier versions, 

you have to configure first the destination number where the SMS 

alarm should be sent to. This could be done by using the command: 

&CNF UNIT GEOMSG=S012345678,3,60,0,0,0,0,0,IOPRMC 


Page 108


(this is only an example, other configuration events are also possible). 

Finally configure the Master region via SMS command. 

• The parameters ,,,,,, 

or integrated into the &CNF WATCH command 

are the same one provided by the GEOMSG, but they are supported to 

be entered in the &CNF WATCH command by using the firmware 

1.6.5 and greater versions, only. 

• If one of the parameters ,,,,, 

, or is specified, the GEOMSG settings 

are also modified based on the user defined value. 

• If the Master region is deactivated (by sending the command &CNF 

WATCH 0), the GEOMSG settings are still available. The GEOMSG 

settings can only be cleared separately. If these settings are no more 

required for other geofencing regions by the user, to clear the command 

(&CNF UNIT GEOMSG) without parameter has to be sent to the 

STEPP device. 

• If the object (vehicle fitted with the FALCOM STEPP) enters (i) into the 





- the header (GEO00), 

- the specified by the WATCH parameter and 

- closed by the user selected protocols either by the 

property of the WATCH or GEOMSG parameter. 

e.g. 

+CMT: "+4917610022382",,"05/06/27,10:44:20+08" 

STEPP enters the zone 

$GPRMC,084509.984,A,5040.3998,N,01058.8412,E,0.06,350.84, 

270605,,*05 

$GPIOP,11000000,00000000,0.71,5.25,4.11*73 

• If the object (vehicle fitted with the FALCOM STEPP) leaves (i) the 





- the predefined text “GEO-ALARM 0” 

- closed by the user selected protocols either by the 

property of the WATCH or GEOMSG parameter. 

e.g. 

+CMT: "+4917610022382",,"05/06/27,10:44:20+08" 

STEPP GEO-ALARM 0 

$GPRMC,084509.984,A,5040.3998,N,01058.8412,E,0.06,350.84, 

270605,,*05 

$GPIOP,11000000,00000000,0.71,5.25,4.11*73 

i 


i 



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6.5 NMEA Commands – supported from firmware 1.6.2 and 

greater 

The NMEA messages can also be sent to the STEPP terminal via SMS 

configuration. If more than one NMEA message are to be sent in one SMS 

message, they should be separated by inserting the End Sequence 

termination line (carriage return and line feed). Please note that, if an SMS 

password is enabled, NMEA sentences starting with $PSRF108 are not 

accepted via SMS configuration. 

All of these NMEA messages can be sent to the device either locally 

through serial interface or as a SMS over-air (GSM network). 

If a Data call is established to the STEPP device, the NMEA messages can 

also be directly transmited. 

6.5.1 $PSRF108,NAME=VALUE[:NAME=VALUE] Write device 

configuration 

Command $PSRF108,=:= 

...:= 

Examples $PSRF108,PIN=0000*68 

$PSRF108,NAME=tommy001*6B 

$PSRF108,RING=2*1F 

$PSRF108,PWD=123456*7B 

$PSRF108,PORT1=Z,1,1*4D 

$PSRF108,KEY1=S123456,Alarm Input 1,RMC*65 

$PSRF108,TEL0=V+4912345678*2A 

$PSRF108,VOL=10,12*44 

$PSRF108,LOG=4,5,3600,0,0,0,0*7F 

$PSRF108,IN1=S123456,Alarm Analogue1,2,3,IOP*72 

$PSRF108,TEL1=S0123456:VOL=7,10*7F 

$PSRF108,TEL1*6E 

…. 


Using this command the STEPP device can be configured and a range of 

parameters can be set. Each parameter can be configured and adapted to the 

user preference. 


 

It indicates that the inserted parameter name will be changed or new 

configured. It depends on the parameter name to be handled. Please, refer 

to the chapter 6.3. In that chapter you will find more details about the 

supported parameter. 

The following parameter name can be used: 

PIN It allows you to set the PIN of used SIM card (only 

loccally). 

NAME It allows you to define or change the device name. 


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PWD It allows you to define or to change the device password. 

RING It is intended for modifying to your own preferences the 

ring melody for voice calls. 

PORTIt is intended for changing the present status of the STEPP 

digital outputs and its specifies the index of 

output ports. 

KEY It is intended for configuring the digital inputs of the 

STEPP and its specifies the index of digital 

inputs. 

IN It is intended for configuring the analogue inputs of the 

STEPP and its specifies the index of analoge 

inputs. 

TEL It allows you to define the phone numbers which have to 

be saved in the access/authorization list, and the 

specifies the entry index of list. 

VOL It allows you to adjust the loudspeaker and microphone 

volume levels. 

LOG It allows you to modify/set the parameters for the history 

data. 

ACK It allows you to activate/deactivate the confirmation of 

SMS sent by STEPP. 

Fehler! Verweisquelle konnte nicht gefunden werden. It allows you to 

determine the amount of time to wait for data 

transmission. 

MSG It allows you to configure the STEPP device for 

periodically delivering of GPS protocols. 

IGN It allows you to monitor an abandoned vehicle fitted with 


GEOMSG It allows you to configure the STEPP to get geo-fencing 

messages periodically or one-time regions for periodically 

delivering of GPS protocols. 

GEO It allows the STEPP device to determine an area 

(geofencing region). 

DEL It allows you to specifiy a delimiter on the received SMS 

messages. 

 

It specifies the value(s) of the entered parameter name. The value 

depends on the parameter name to be handled; please, refer to the chapter 

6.3. In that chapter you will find more details about the supported 

parameter and an improved value description. 

 

CheckSum has to be calculated. 

Notes 

• If more than one parameter has to be sent within this message, they 

should be separated by colons [:]. Keep in mind, if this message is 

supposed to be sent as a SMS, the length of text within a SMS is limited 

to 160 characters. 

• If no phone numbers are set in the authorized list, the device accepts all 

incoming calls and messages. To prevent the STEPP device from 


Page 111


accepting all calls and messages, at least an authorized number has to 

be available in the authorized list. 

• If a message including one of the aforementioned parameter is sent 

without value then the corrent value of that parameter stored into the 

FLASH memory will be deleted (deactivated). 

• The events of $GPIOP protocol can also be stored in the history data. 

6.5.2 $PSRF103,[msg],00,[rate],01[*CkSum] Select protocols to 

be sent to 

Command $PSRF103,,00,,01 

Examples $PSRF103,00,00,00,01*24 

$PSRF103,00,00,01,01*25 

$PSRF103,01,00,00,01*25 

$PSRF103,01,00,01,01*24 

$PSRF103,02,00,00,01*26 

$PSRF103,02,00,01,01*27 

$PSRF103,03,00,00,01*27 

$PSRF103,03,00,01,01*26 

$PSRF103,04,00,00,01*20 

$PSRF103,04,00,01,01*21 


This command is used to control the output of supported NMEA 

messages GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, GPIOP and GPGSM. Using 

this command message, NMEA messages may be polled once, or setup 

for periodic output. 


 

It specifies the NMEA message which will be configured. Following 

values are available: 

00 corresponds to the GPGGA message 

01 corresponds to the GPGLL message 

02 corresponds to the GPGSA message 

03 corresponds to the GPGSV message 

04 corresponds to the GPRMC message 

07 corresponds to the GPIOP message 

08 corresponds to the GPGSM message 

00 

predefined value 

 

specifies the message period in seconds. Following values can be set: 

00 disables the message specified in the field 

01 enables the message specified in the field 

01 

predefined value. 

 


Notes 


Page 112


• If the field is specified to 0, the selected message will 

be disabled (switched OFF). 

6.5.3 $PSRF109,[data][*ChSum] Download the history data 

Command $PSRF109,,,,, 

 

Examples $PSRF109,1,280104,155811,300104,150000*36 


Download history from STEPP using specified parameters. This 

command enables you to retrieve stored GPS history data either from a 

directly connected STEPP or from communicating one via a data line. 

The data into the on-board memory are stored according to UTC Time 

(Universal Time Coordinated). Therefore, the parameters of this 

command are also based on the UTC time. 


 

It specifies the download history format. The GPS data can be 

configured in the following data formats: 

0 corresponds to the request history in the NMEA format 

1 corresponds to the request history in the binary format 

 

Specifies the start date. Its format is DDMMYY 

 

Specifies the start time. Its format is HHMMSS 

 

Specifies the end date. Its format is DDMMYY 

 

Specifies the end time. Its format is HHMMSS 

 


Notes 

• To download the history data, please consider the UTC Time, otherwise 

you will download the stored data in the incorrect time. 

6.6 GPIOP format protocol 

The $GPIOP status protocol appears in the following format: 


Page 113


$GPIOP 

8-Bit value – Input 

8-Bit value – Output 

Value analogue input 1 

Value analogue input 2 

Value internal battery voltage 

GPS 

Status protocol 

I I I I I I I I - Input-Bits KEY8..KEY1 

OOOOOOOO - Output-Bits PORT8..PORT1 

adc1 – A/D – Wandler 1 – Molex Pin2 

adc2 – A/D – Wandler 2 – Molex Pin4 

Voltage of internal battery 

configured GPS protocol 

In the example the inputs / outputs marked red have 

been set. 

I I I I I I I I = Input 2 and 8 (Ignition) active 

OOOOOOOO = Output 1 and 3 activated 

$GPIOP,01000010,00000101,0.00,0.00,4.07*70 

The below schematic shows the structure and description (of each bit) of the 

$GPIOP protocol message. 


Page 114


6.7 Description of the binary format 

The binary format stored in the memory of the STEPP device has the following 

structure. 

Name Format Checksum End Sequence 

$GPLOG , 

$GPLOG,19590B9E336B822E685F2C6264030010421500200025,195910DE33BBC 

B2EB69C2CA7B105001000100000000*62 

A record line in the binary format consists of two data records - the 

and fields, similar regarding the build structure, with a maximum 

data compression. Data records and are comma delimited 

“,”. This format can be applied when a large amount of recorded data in a short 

time is required to be downloaded from the STEPP device remotely via a data 

call connection. 

The following table is intended as a quick reference to explain the stored 

binary data. 

Name Bytes 

Binary (hex) 

Scale Example 

ASCII (Dec) 

Units 

Scale Example 

$GPLOG - - - - 

first data record 

GPS time* 

(since 01/06/1980) 

4 19590B9E Seconds 425266078 

X-position** 3 336B82 m 3369858 

Y-position** 3 2E685F m 3041375 

Z-position** 3 2C6264 m 2908772 

SVs in Fix*** 1 03 3 

Velocity 2 *100 0010 m/s Vs÷100 0.1 

GPIO 2 4215 - 

has to be 

converted in 

the binary 

format, see 

chapter 6.7.1 

Analogue 1 2 *(256/36.3) 0020 

V÷(256/36.3) 2.83 

Calculation: 20÷(256/36.3)=2.83 

Analogue 2 2 *(256/36.3) 0025 

V÷(256/36.3) 3.54 

Calculation: 25÷(256/36.3)=3.54 

Delimiter[,] - - - - - - 

second data record 

It has the same structure as first data record, but it may contains different values. 

*0D - - - - 

* GPS time The number of seconds since Saturday/Sunday Midnight 

UTC, with time zero begging this midnight. Used with 

GPS Week Number to determine a specific point in GPS 

Time. 


Page 115


** X, Y, Z position Coordinates of user’s position in ECEF (meters). The 

Earth-centered Earth-Fixed (ECEF) is a Cartesian 

coordinate system with its origin located at the center of 

the Earth. The coordinate system used by GPS to 

describe 3-D location. For WGS-84 (World Geodetic 

System 1984) reference ellipsoid. ECEF coordinated 

have the Z-axis aligned with the Earth’s spin axis, The 

X-axis through the insertion of the Prime meridian and 

the Equator and the Y-axis is rotated 90 degrees East of 

the X-axis about the Z-axis. 

***SVs in Fix For validated and invalidated solution definition, see 

table below. 

SVs in Fix 

Hex ASCII 

Description 

0 x 00 0 No navigation solution 

0 x 01 1 1 Satellite solution 



0 x 04 to 0 x 0C 

Example 

4 to 12 > 3 Satellite solution 

0 x 6 6 6 satellites are in view 

6.7.1 Convert the GPIO hexadecimal value to binarry format 

In order to identify the status of provided GPIO states, you have to convert the 

corresponding hexa value in the binary format. The schematic below shows the 

structure of the GPIO protocol message converted from hexa value (4215) in 

the binary format. The GPIO state consists of a 16 bit values (4 Bytes), where 

the first 8 bits (0-7 bits, counting begin from right to left) inicate the outputs 

state and the last 8 bits (8-15 bits) indicate the inputs state. Each bit contains 

the current state of the corresponding STEPP device input/output. If the bit x is 

set to 1/0, it means that the input or output is set to HIGH/LOW state, 

respectively. 


Page 116


6.8 Vehicle Location 

Transferring the GPS protocols of a Falcom STEPP to an alarm centre, which 

should be equipped with a Falcom SWING, TANGO or an A2D-1 as a GSM 

modem, can be done in the following ways: 

• Via a data line which has been initiated in the STEPPconfig. 

• Via recurring SMS transmission, which was initiated after a SMS &REQ 

POS was sent to the Falcom STEPP. 

• Via a data line, which was initiated by STEPPconfig after a SMS 

&REQ [Password] CONNECT 

was sent to the Falcom STEPP. After receiving the SMS, Falcom STEPP 

will automatically establish a data line to the number entered under , and transfer the NMEA protocols. 

• Via a data line which was triggered by Falcom STEPP due to an alarm. 

The configuration in Falcom STEPP could be: 

$PSRF108,KEY1=D01234567,Alarm 1*73 

In case of an alarm, this would establish a data line by activating alarm 

input 1 to the telephone number 01234567. 

Via a data line from any GSM modem, provided no entries have been made to 

the list “authorized phone numbers” 

From a GSM modem whose number has been entered into the list of 

“authorised phone numbers”, and if that number has been flagged with a 

for data, or if no flag has been set for the type of call. 

In the latter case, a data line will always be established. 

Important information: 

1. The number contained in the list of “authorized phone numbers” must 

match exactly with the number transmitted via the GSM network. 

2. The transmission of one’s own number via the GSM network must not be 

deactivated (AT+CLIR=0 or 2). 

3. Each telephone number may only appear once into the list of “authorized 

phone numbers”. 

A duplicated entry with different call type flags is not allowed. 


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6.9 Falcom STEPP – Help with occurring errors 

Whenever an error occurs with Falcom STEPP, always check the correct 

connection and connecting cables. 

Verify that the antennas are correctly connected to the Falcom STEPP. The 

following table will assist you in elevating the most common problems. 

Problem Cause Solution 

The yellow LED 

(TimeMark) doesn‘t 

flash 

The green LED (GSM) 

lamp isn‘t on 

The green LED (GSM) 

doesn‘t flash 

• Check that the cables Vin 

(white) , GND (brown) and 

Akku (green) are correctly 

connected 

• GSM antenna and GPSantenna 

are interchanged 

• No active GPS antenna 

connected 

• Vehicle is in the garage. 

The GPS antenna does not 

have an unobstructed view 

to the sky 

• Internal storage battery is 

discharged too much due to 

shortage of external supply 

tension (Vin) 

• Akku (green) cable is not 

connected 

• SIM card has not been 

inserted 

• PIN number has not been 

configured 

• GSM antenna not at all or 

incorrectly connected 

• No GSM field strength 

• SIM card has been changed 

which has another PIN code 

of the first one 

• Connect the Vin (white) cable 

with (+), 

• Connect the GND (brown) cable 

with (-) 

• Connect the Akku (green) cable 

with (-) 

• Check that both antennas are 

properly connected 

• Only use 3 V active GPS 

antennas (e.g. ANT006 of 

Falcom) 

• GPS reception requires a good 

view to a satellite 

• Check that the supply tension 

Vin has the correct value 

10,2..31,8V 

Connect the GND (brown) cable 

with (-) 

• Please insert the SIM card 

correctly 

• Configure the correct PIN 

number within the Service- 

Mode-Configure device 

parameters 

• Check that the GSM antenna is 

properly connected 

• Switch off the Falcom STEPP. 

- Remove the SIM card and 

insert it into your mobile 

phone or Falcom GSM modem 

(like SWING, A2D-1 or 

TANGO) and enter the correct 

PIN. 

- Switch on the STEPP again 


Page 118


The Yellow LED 

(GPS) flashes (4sec. 

interval) 

• SIM card has not been 

inserted 

• PIN number is incorrect 

configured 

• The start-up of GSM engine 

has detected an error. 

• SIM card has been changed 

which has another PIN code 

of the first one 

(without the SIM), then start 

up the STEPPconfig software. 

Go to “Service Mode” > 

“Device basis configurations”. 

Delete the PIN in the 

corresponding field and press 

the button “Send”. 

- Close the ConfigSTEPP 

software and switch off the 

STEPP device. 

- Remove the SIM card from 

your mobile or GSM modem 

and insert it into the STEPP. 

- Switch on the STEPP device 

and start again the 

ConfigSTEPP software 

- Go to “Service Mode” > 

“Device basis configurations”. 

Enter the new PIN code in the 

corresponding field, then press 

the button“Send”. 

• Please insert the SIM card 

correctly 

• Configure the correct PIN 

number within the Service- 

Mode-Configure device 

parameters 

• Power down the Falcom STEPP 

and power it up again. 

• Please try to do the same steps 

described in the previev row on 

the same column. 


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7 How to update the new firmware into the STEPP 

The firmware of Falcom STEPP is constantly being improved and new features 

are added. In order to allow users of Falcom STEPP to utilize new releases of 

the firmware, a program has to be available to update the on-board Flash- 

Memory. The new firmware and an update program are distributed 

electronically via Internet, only. 

Important note: Please write down the important existing configuration 

settings for the Falcom STEPP using the current firmware. The update 

procedure of new firmware erases the whole internal flash memory and the 

presettings stored on it are absolutely erased, too. 

In order to update a new Falcom STEPP firmware, please follow step-by-step 

the instructions described below: 

� Point your web browser to www.falcom.de, go to service � firmware 

� Falcom Stepp and download the “stepp_sw_x.zip“ file. The folder 

“sirf_flash” and the new firmware are included into this zip file. 

� If Falcom STEPP terminal is still not connected to the STEPP- 

STARTERKIT, connect it (follow the instructions described on the 

chapter “1.3 Installing the STEPP-STARTERKIT”), else go to the next 

step. 

� The update procedure takes place if the target system (Falcom STEPP) 

is reset in the internal update mode. Therefore, if the terminal is powered 

on, power it down (means, turn off the switches ACCU OFF, V+ and 

BOOT, on the STEPP EVAL-BOARD). 

� First turn on the switch BOOT (this enables update mode), and then turn 

on the switches ACCU OFF and V+. The system is now in the update 

mode. 

� Unzip the stepp_sw_x.zip file and start “SiRFflash.exe” program from 

the folder “sirf_flash” by double clicking the icon. The Dialog Window 

shown below appears. 

� Make sure that the serial port of EVAL-BOARD is properly connected 

to one of the available COM ports on your PC (i.e. COM1). 


Page 120


� 

� 

� 

� 

� 

� 

� 

� 

� 

Please refer to the figure below for the following points. Select the 

Program flash radio button in the Activity selection box 

Select the Line where your Falcom STEPP is connected (i.e COM1) and 

Baud rate (115200) in the Communication settings box. 

Select the Chip select (CSN0) and Chip offset (0) in the Flash location 

settings box. 

Choose the download file (the new firmware “*.S” is included in the 

stepp_sw_x.zip file) by using the Browse button into the File selection 

box. 

Select Erase whole chip, in the Programming options box. 

Press Execute button to start the flash update programming. 

The current positions of the programming progress are displayed in the 

Progress box and the Total, Erase and Burn process are shown in the 

Timing box. 

Note: Do not interrupt this procedure. A partially reprogrammed 

flash memory could lead to invalid operation of the terminal 

and permanent damage to the components. 

If an error is generated by clicking the Execute button or during flash 

programming, check cables and retry the operation or click the help 

button to get the troubleshooting described in the help file of SirfFlash 

program. 

If download has been completed successfully, power down the Falcom 

STEPP (turn off the switches ACCU OFF, V+ and BOOT). Your 

Falcom STEPP is ready to run with the new firmware. The Falcom 

STEPP with the new firmware is automatically started at the next power 

up (turn on the switches ACCU OFF, V+ and IGN). A complete 

configuration has to be done, maybe now your writen down 

configuration settings are to be entered. 


Page 121


8 Appendix A 

8.1 How to convert the coordinates 

In order to convert coordinates from degrees, minutes, seconds format to 

decimal format, use this easy formula: 

degrees + (minutes/60) + (seconds/3600) 

The example coordinate above (UL) would be calculated as: 

In our example: 

Latitude (LR) = 10°52’55” N 


Latitude (UL) 

X° Y' Z'' = [10 + (52/60) + (55/3600)] = 10.8819// Latitude (UL) 

X° No conversion required 

Longitude (UL) 

X° Y' Z'' = [50 + (42/60) + (44/3600)] = 50.7122// Longitude (UL) 


The example coordinate above (LR) would be calculated as: 

In our example: 

Latitude (LR) = 10°57’14” N 


Latitude (LR) 

X° Y' Z'' = [10 + (57/60) + (14/3600)] = 10.9538 // Latitude (LR) 


Longitude (LR) 

X° Y' Z'' = [50 + (40/60) + (18/3600)] = 50.6716// Longitude (LR) 


8.1.1 What to do if the defined password of device fails ? 

The NMEA message in the table below is mainly intended for use if the 

parameter [PWD] has been specified, and you have forgotten the specified 

password of STEPP device. In this case no configuration could not be made via 

SMS commands. 

Command $PSRF108,PWD=*XX 

$PSRF108,PWD*XX 

Examples $PSRF108,PWD=tommy001*6B 

$PSRF108,PWD*41 


This command has to be sent only locally to the STEPP device (by 

connecting the device to a PC/laptop). After the password is specified or 

deleted, the device can be accessed remotely via SMS. 


 

It allows you to define the password of device. 


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8.1.2 Default settings of the firmware 1.6.5 

The standard STEPP firmware 1.6.5 and greater versions have the following 

default settings, all others settings are deacivated and require a manual 


General settings Value Description 

COM port settings 9600 baudrate 

8 databit 

N parity 

1 stopbit 

Protocol format NMEA NMEA format 

Protocols GGA GPGGA protocol will be delivered every 

second 

GSA GPGSA protocol will be delivered every 

second 

GSV GPGSV protocol will be delivered every 

second 

Parameters 

RMC GPRMC protocol will be delivered every 

second 

ACK() 1 Each SMS message sent to the STEPP device 

will be confirmed to the message sender. 

GPSRESET() 10,H The GPS rreceiver makes a hotstart (H) every 

10 minutes, if no GPS-fix is obtained. 

TEL =[empty] If type connection on this parameter is 

not specified, the number will 

be available only for Data call. 

KEY =[empty] If the field is not specified the alarm 

will be triggered by rising edge (Low to High 

state) of the user-defined input. 

MSG =[< 30] Messages are not sent more frequently than 

one message every 30 seconds, if the is 

specified less then 30. 

DEL The responded SMS message from the STEPP 

device includes the end sequence 

between each of message. 

GSMWRST() 1440 Reset the GSM core after 1440-minutes (=24 

hour), if no GSM activities are available at this 

time. 


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6 Configuration commands - for Falcom STEPP

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