1. Introduction
The JESSINIE SIM868 Development Board is an expansion module designed for Raspberry Pi, integrating GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), and Bluetooth functionalities. This board is compatible with Raspberry Pi 2B, 3B, 3B+, 4B, Zero, and Zero W, connecting directly via the 40-pin GPIO interface.
It enables a wide range of applications including making phone calls, sending and receiving SMS messages, wireless internet access, global positioning, and Bluetooth data transmission. The module supports various communication protocols and positioning systems, offering a versatile solution for IoT and communication projects.
2. Product Overview
This section provides a visual and descriptive overview of the SIM868 Development Board and its key components.
Figure 2.1: Top view of the JESSINIE SIM868 Development Board, highlighting its compact design and integrated SIM868 module. It features connectors for GSM, GNSS antennas, a USB to UART port, and a SIM card slot.
Figure 2.2: Detailed views of the board's interfaces. Top left shows the USB to UART switch (A: USB-SIM868, B: USB-PI, C: USB-PI), top right shows the USB to UART port. Bottom left displays the RTC battery holder, and bottom right shows the SIM card slot.
3. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your JESSINIE SIM868 Development Board with a Raspberry Pi.
3.1. Connecting to Raspberry Pi
- Ensure your Raspberry Pi is powered off.
- Align the 40-pin GPIO header of the SIM868 Development Board with the GPIO pins on your Raspberry Pi.
- Gently press the SIM868 board onto the Raspberry Pi's GPIO header until it is securely seated.
3.2. SIM Card Installation
- Locate the SIM card slot on the SIM868 Development Board (refer to Figure 2.2).
- Insert a 1.8V or 3V SIM card into the slot, ensuring correct orientation. The board supports standard SIM cards.
3.3. Antenna Connections
- Connect the provided GSM antenna to the 'GSM' connector on the board.
- Connect the provided GPS antenna to the 'GNSS' connector on the board.
Figure 3.1: The SIM868 Development Board fully assembled with a Raspberry Pi, including connected GPS and GSM antennas.
3.4. Powering the Module
The module draws power from the Raspberry Pi's GPIO pins. Ensure your Raspberry Pi is powered by a suitable 5V power supply after connecting the SIM868 board.
4. Operating Instructions
The SIM868 module is primarily controlled via AT commands sent through a serial interface. The onboard CP2102 USB to UART chip facilitates serial communication for debugging and control.
4.1. Serial Communication
- Connect the board to your computer via the USB to UART port for direct serial communication, or use the Raspberry Pi's serial interface.
- Use a serial terminal program (e.g., Minicom on Linux, PuTTY on Windows) to send AT commands.
- The module supports automatic baud rate identification (1200bps ~ 115200bps).
4.2. GSM/GPRS Functions
The module supports standard GSM/GPRS functions:
- SMS: Send and receive text messages (PDU and Text mode).
- Telephone: Make and receive calls.
- GPRS: Access the internet with downlink/uplink rates up to 85.6kbps. Supports HTTP, FTP, MMS, and email.
- DTMF: Dual-tone multi-frequency signaling.
4.3. GPS/GNSS Positioning
The SIM868 module integrates GPS, Beidou, Glonass, and LBS base station positioning for comprehensive location services.
- Ensure the GPS antenna is connected and has a clear view of the sky for optimal signal reception.
- Use specific AT commands to query location data.
4.4. Bluetooth 3.0 Functionality
The board supports Bluetooth 3.0 EDR for data transmission and other functions.
- Supports SPP, OPP, HFP/HSP profiles.
- Control Bluetooth features using integrated AT commands.
Figure 4.1: Visual representation of the SIM868 Expansion Board's diverse applications, including calling, texting, Bluetooth 3.0, Wi-Fi (via GPRS), and GPS.
5. Specifications
5.1. General Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Working Voltage | 5V |
| Working Temperature | 40°C ~ 85°C |
| Storage Temperature | -45°C ~ 90°C |
| Product Size | 30.2mm x 65mm (1.18 inches x 2.55 inches) |
| Part Number (P/N) | S2-108J1-Z1Q6J-Z1Q69 |
| Serial Number (SN) | MP0621147002FA3 |
| IMEI | 864866053574173 |
| Bluetooth MAC (BTMAC) | 48E6C0D42759 |
| Software Version (SW) | 1418B05SIM868M32_BT |
Figure 5.1: Image displaying general operating parameters for the SIM868 Development Board.
Figure 5.2: Image detailing the physical dimensions of the board, along with GNSS and Bluetooth specifications.
5.2. GSM/GPRS Parameters
- Frequency Band: GSM 850/EGSM 900/DCS 1800/PCS 1900 MHz. Supports automatic search of 4 frequency bands.
- Standard: Meets GSM phase 2/2+ standard.
- Transmit Power:
- Class 4 (2W @ GSM 850/EGSM 900 MHz)
- Class 1 (1W @ DCS 1800/PCS 1900 MHz)
- GPRS Connection Characteristics:
- GPRS multi-slot class 12 (default)
- GPRS multi-slot class 1~12 (configurable)
- GPRS Data Characteristics:
- Downlink/Uplink Transmission Rate: ≤ 85.6kbps
- Support Packet Broadcast Control Channel (PBCCH)
- Encoding format: CS-1, CS-2, CS-3, CS-4
- Support PAP protocol (password authentication protocol) for PPP connection
- Support for Unstructured Supplementary Data Services (USSD)
- SMS:
- Supported types: MT, MO, CB, Text, PDU
- SMS storage device: SIM card
- Audio Characteristics:
- Speech codec modes: Half Rate, Full Rate, Enhanced Full Rate, Adaptive Muti Rate
- Support echo cancellation function
- Support noise suppression function
Figure 5.3: Detailed specifications for GSM/GPRS communication and audio features.
5.3. GNSS Parameters
- Receive: 33 tracking channels, 99 acquisition channels.
- GPS: L1 C/A code.
- Accuracy: Determination bit: <2.5 m CEP.
5.4. Bluetooth Parameters
- Integrated AT command control compliant with Bluetooth specification 3.0 EDR.
- Support SPP, OPP, HFP/HSP and other functions.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your JESSINIE SIM868 Development Board, observe the following maintenance guidelines:
- Handling: Always handle the board by its edges to avoid touching components, which can be sensitive to static electricity.
- Environment: Operate and store the board in a dry, dust-free environment within the specified temperature ranges (Working: 40°C ~ 85°C, Storage: -45°C ~ 90°C).
- Cleaning: If cleaning is necessary, use a soft, dry brush or compressed air to remove dust. Avoid liquid cleaners.
- Power: Always disconnect power before making or changing connections to the board.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your SIM868 Development Board, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power/LEDs Off:
- Ensure the Raspberry Pi is powered correctly and the SIM868 board is securely connected to the GPIO header.
- Check the power supply of your Raspberry Pi.
- No Network Signal (GSM/GPRS):
- Verify the SIM card is correctly inserted and activated.
- Ensure the GSM antenna is securely connected.
- Check network coverage in your area.
- Use AT commands (e.g., AT+CSQ) to check signal quality.
- No GPS Signal:
- Ensure the GPS antenna is securely connected and has a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.
- Allow sufficient time for the module to acquire satellites (cold start can take several minutes).
- Serial Communication Issues:
- Confirm the correct serial port and baud rate are selected in your terminal program.
- Check the USB to UART switch setting if using the onboard CP2102.
- Ensure necessary drivers for the CP2102 chip are installed on your computer.
- Bluetooth Connectivity Problems:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both the module and the device you are trying to connect to.
- Check for proper AT commands used for Bluetooth pairing and connection.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact JESSINIE customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt or order number handy for any warranty claims.
