TCS-MINI help on line


IMPORTANT: If your TCS-MINI is equipped with Temperature option, make sure you don't make a mistake when connecting either the temperature probe or the RS232 connector as they are identical and near each other. A mistake would burn the temperature circuit and this would not be covered by warranty. Check TCS Mini Temperature option.

The TCS-MINI is robust and easy to use, nevetherless there are a few things to consider when using it for the first time.
This page contains most important informations to enable you to use your TCS-MINI.
Basically you need to:
  • 1- insert a SIM that does not ask for a PIN code (to remove this request you should insert it in a phone and select this feature).
    Once you have succesfully switched on your TCS-CAM you may program a PIN into it using the #PIN command and then you can insert a SIM with that PIN you have programmed.
    If you want to start immediately with a SIM that has the PIN request enabled, don't insert a SIM, connect the TCS-MINI to a computer and enter the program menu as explained in the TCS COMMANDS page.
  • 2- Always connect the battery connector first and apply the external supply only after having done it.
  • 3- You can connect to the DC input any DC voltage from 12 to 20V. This enables you to use either the supplied AC adapter, a car battery or a Solar Panel.
  • 4- If you use a solar panel please note that the backup batteries will not last for more than 1 hour of calls (or 16 hours in stand-by) when charged. If you need a longer capacity you should connect an external lead battery with a proper charger.


    • Operation:

    When the TCS-MINI switches on:
  • first the RED LED will flash every 2 seconds
  • then it will flash every second while registering to the network
  • Once registered it will flash every 4 seconds
  • The green LED will flash everytime the GSM module is receiving or transmitting something (i.e. during a call or SMS)
    •

    TCS-MINI SMS Commands The TCS-MINI has some SMS commands that are used to program telephone numbers, set clock etc. some of them are similar to the TCS 3.5 commands with some limitations
    If you are not familiar with our TCS boards here are some explanations:
  • Commands to the TCS-MINI must be sent via SMS
  • You can group commands together
  • Every command must start with # and must be in CAPITAL LETTERS
  • the #INI command ERASES any previous setting so be careful when issuing it.
    A common mistake is to send a #INI at the end, after other commands. This will erase previous commands.
  • a command SMS must always start with #PWD followed by a 6 digits alphanumeric password (default is 123456)
  • The TCS-MINI is shipped with both Admin and User password set at 123456, use #CAP and #CUP commands if you want to change them.
  • The TCS-MINI will answer to your commands with an SMS (unless you put the #NOA command at the end of the command SMS), but in order to be able to answer, it needs a valid SMS center number that you should ask to your operator.
  • A common first command to send to your TCS-MINI is #PWD123456#SCAyour_operator_sms_number#SCT
    The above command will setup the SMS center number that you will write in place of your_operator_sms_number and will synchronize TCS-CAM clock with your operator clock.


    • For a list of available commands please check the TCS COMMAND LIST ON LINE and pay attention to the TCS-MINI specific commands that are listed separately


    This is a temporary information and will be updated soon.
    In the mean time for any further information please use the link at the bottom of this page to contact us.



     
    tcs_mini picture 1
    1- Push the small yellow button to eject the SIM holder
    2- Remove the PIN code from your SIM (use a telephone to do it and check it does not ask for the PIN when you switch the telephone ON).
    With the unit switched OFF, insert the SIM into the SIM holder and insert it back into its place until it locks.

    tcs_mini picture 2
    3- Insert the battery connector into its place as shown in the above picture.
    VERY IMPORTANT: first insert the battery and AFTER insert the AC plug as shown below.

    tcs_mini picture 3
    4- Insert the DC plug into its place as shown in the picture above.
    A DC Voltage from 12 to 20 V can be applied to this power input, i.e. the supplied AC adapter or a solar panel.

    tcs_mini picture 4
    5- Here is a list of the connectors of the TCS-MINI

    gsm camera picture 1
    6- Here is a schematic of the Input and Output circuitry available on the 8 pin RJ45 type connector.
    Inputs are standard TTL and should not be connected to a voltage above 5V.
    Best thing is to connect them to voltage-free (clean) contacts and pull them to ground (or release them) with a relais or a open collector circuit.
    Please see command #IPM to see how inputs can be used. Time counter is not available on the TCS-MINI. Output relays are low power type. Don't connect loads above 48V and 0.5A.