Iridium PTT is a very powerful feature for voice communications, but its active use limits the capability of the modem to perform Iridium SBD tracking. To combat this, Flightcell fits a 2nd modem, dedicated to just sending Iridium SBD flight tracking data. 


If you have an Iridium PTT enabled DZMx, and want to make use of the Iridium SBD tracking feature, there are a couple of things to check on your unit and the setup to ensure you get the best result possible.


The Iridium Modems

  • Your DZMx will have an Iridium 9523 voice modem that supports voice calls, PTT, SMS, Iridium data and Iridium SBD. However, while this modem is in PTT mode it will not be able to make use of Iridium SBD or Iridium data. This modem can have an Iridium SIM fitted to enable regular Iridium voice calls and SMS messaging, it also has an Iridium IMEI which is used for provisioning PTT.
  • Your DZMx will have a 2nd Iridium modem fitted called an Iridium 9603 modem. It is dedicated to providing Iridium SBD tracking data and functionality. This does not require an Iridium SIM but does have an IMEI and this will need to be provisioned with your tracking airtime provider for your Iridium SBD tracking to function. 



DZMx Setup


There are a couple of settings you will wish to change to ensure you get the most out of both the Iridium modems and the PTT, voice and tracking functions that they provide. You will need to connect to and log into your DZMx using the DZMx Connect application. 


DZMx Connect

Hardwired Ethernet Computer Connection 

1. Connect a computer to the DZMx Ethernet port.

2. Power up the DZMx and wait for it to initialise fully.

3. Open a web browser, type in 192.168.4.1 in the address bar and press enter. The home screen of DZMx Connect opens in the browser.

 

WiFi Laptop Connection 

1. Power up the DZMx and wait for it to initialise fully.

2. Check that Wi-Fi is enabled. Look for a Wi-Fi icon located at the top right-hand side of the DZMx display. If the Wi-Fi icon is not present, it can be checked and enabled in one of three ways:

    a. Press and hold the keypad MODE button until "Enabling Wi-Fi" is displayed on the display. Wi-Fi can also be disabled with a subsequent press of the MODE button.

    b. Using the DZMx keypad, navigate to MENU>>Hardware Config>>Wireless and Networks>> Wi-Fi Enable and select Yes.

    c. Connect a PC or laptop to the DZMx via an Ethernet cable. Type 192.168.4.1 into a web browser and navigate to Connectivity>> Wi-Fi and toggle the switch to ON.

3. With Wi-Fi enabled on the DZMx, connect your laptop to the DZMx Wi-Fi network. 
Default SSID: DZMx Wi-Fi» Default password: flightcell (all lower case) 

4. Open a web browser on the laptop and type in 192.168.2.1 then press enter; the home screen of DZMx Connect will open within the browser.

Click here to watch a short video explaining the DZMx Connect capabilities (demonstrated on the app version).

 

WiFi Smart Device Connection 

1. Configure your smart device to connect to: » Default SSID: DZMx Wi-Fi» Default password: flightcell (all lower case)

2. Open the DZMx Connect app (DZMx Connect can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store). The initial screen is a discovery screen and the DZMx will be discovered automatically. The DISCOVER button is only required if the process needs to be repeated.

3. Click on the discovered DZMx unit to open navigation and settings options. Click here to watch a short video explaining the DZMx Connect app capabilities
 



Checking the Modem Configuration


Once connected to the DZMx through DZMx Connect you can carry out the configuration. You will need to log in to DZMx Connect as an "installer". Please press the "Login" button, select "Installer" and then enter the PIN number: 2468

 


Select Settings -> Modem -> Modem 1 (this is typically your Iridium 9523 PTT capable satellite modem)


 

Configure as below within DZMx Connect:

  • Use For Tracking = Disabled
  • Use For Voice = Enabled
  • Call Audio Priority = your priority of modem to use when making a call
  • Enable SBD For Tracking = Disabled
  • Service Centre Number = Iridium (note that if your Iridium account is with Telstra, Pivotel, DOD or Iridium Russia, you will need to select the appropriate service centre number)
  • Click Done to save your changes


Please note there is no setup required for your Iridium 9603 SBD modem in this modem section. The DZMx is aware it has the SBD modem and will use it for tracking without requiring to be enabled.


Checking the Hardware Configuration


Select Settings -> Hardware -> Slot 3 (this is typically your Iridium 9603 satellite modem)


Ensure that the "Slot 3" device is set to "Sat Board"


Click Done


Tracking Provider Setup


Your last step is to ensure your tracking provider deactivates the Iridium 9523 IMEI for tracking (if used for tracking in the past) and activates the Iridium 9603 SBD IMEI for tracking instead. 

Both of these IMEI are listed under the DZMx Diagnostics menu and printed on the back of your DZMx.


If you have further questions or would like assistance with this, please don't hesitate to contact [email protected]