Viper SC+™ IP Router for Licensed Spectrum PN 001-5008-000 Rev. C
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POWER SAVE MODE FAQS
Q:
Is PSM currently available in the Viper product line?
A:
Yes. PSM has been supported since the version 3.4 firmware release and all units leaving the factory have version
3.4 or newer firmware installed.
Q:
Can I put PSM into a Viper that is not an SC or SC+?
A:
No. The Viper must have the Viper SC or Viper SC+ designation to have PSM.
Q:
Where can I obtain firmware at the most-current version for my Viper SC+ and for Viper SC units already
implemented in the field?
A:
Firmware updates are available through DeviceOutlook™ and posted on the CalAmp website (
).
For assistance with downloading or installing firmware upgrades, contact CalAmp technical support by e-mail at
or by phone at 1.507.833.6701, choose Option 2 for Fixed, narrowband, and radio
modem products.
Q:
Can I use my RTU/PLC to control PSM?
A:
Yes.
A possible scenario might be for the remote PLC to activate the Enable line of the power connector, wait a few
seconds, and then send and receive data. Once the response or poll is completed, it places the Viper back into
sleep mode by removing B+ from the White wire.
Q:
Can I have the Viper SC+ listen for RF carrier to wake up the radio?
A:
No.
In this case the remote Viper will not wake up since the Viper radio is asleep and does not listen to incoming RF
messages. The Ignition Sense line must be toggled from Off to B+ to wake up the radio.
Q:
Are there any other power-save modes available in the Viper that I can utilize in my system?
A:
No. Currently there are no other power-save modes available.
Q:
Can I use PSM on a “Report by Exception” system?
A:
Yes.
A report by exception polling routine is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of PSM. The Viper SC+ can be
allowed to sleep until a condition occurs that triggers the PLC to send a response. The radio can be awakened,
message sent, response received, and then PSM enabled again.
Q:
My system polling is based on strict controlled timed poll responses. Is PSM of any advantage in this application?
A:
Yes.
As an example, each remote is polled every 60 minutes. At the end of a polling cycle, the SCADA server could issue
a command to the PLC telling it to put the Viper radio to sleep for 55 minutes. The Viper will go to sleep for 55
minutes, then wake up again just before the next poll request is scheduled.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1.507.833.6701 Option 2 for Fixed, narrowband, and radio modem products.
