FCC ID: Y8E-VMDR VM 1W LoRa modem with dual receiver

User Manual for VM 1W LoRa modem with dual receiver Last updated on: 10/12/2020 Power pin outs for the module Power Pin 3: GND; Power Pin 4: 3.5V 1 Programming header and programming cable 2 3 4 Programming instructions Download and install ST-LINK/V2 in-circuit debugger/programmer for STM8 and STM32 from this link :

https://www.st.com/en/development-tools/stsw-link004.html#sw-tools-scroll Programmer setup:

5 Power up the modem and connect the ST link/V2 programmer to the module as shown in the picture. The mini USB connector of the programmer is connected directly to a PC or laptop. Software instructions:

ST link utility software layout 6 click connect to target button . If the connection is successful the debug window looks like this :

Go to file-open file and load the firmware bin file. If the firmware is loaded successfully the debug window looks like this. Click program verify icon A window appears, verify if the settings are similar to whats shown in the picture click start, this will start flashing the firmware. If successful the debug window looks like this 7 8 click disconnect from device icon. Now the programming cable can be removed from the module and the module is ready for testing. Firmware bin file details:

The firmware files that will enable transmissions in fixed frequencies are named as follows:

VM_HALFMOON_FCC_LOW (transmit at 902.3Mhz) VM_HALFMOON_FCC_MID (transmit at 908.5Mhz) VM_HALFMOON_FCC_HIGH (transmit at 914.9Mhz) The firmware file that will enable the module to hop in 64 channels between (902.3 and 914.9) is named as follows:

VM_HALFMOON_FCC_TXHOP_PWR11 Chirp Spread Spectrum Chirp Spread Spectrum was developed for radar applications in the 1940s. Traditionally used in a number of military and secure communications applications; over the past twenty years this modulation technique has seen increased adoption in a number of data communications applications due to its relatively low transmission power requirements and inherent robustness from channel degradation mechanisms such as multipath, fading, Doppler and in-band jamming interferers. A CSS PHY was adopted by the IEEE for the Low-Rate Wireless Personal Area Networks (LR-WPANs) standard 802.15.4 for applications requiring longer range and mobility than that achievable with the OQPSK DSSS PHY mode. LoRa Spread Spectrum Semtechs LoRa modulation addresses all of the issues associated with DSSS systems to provide a low cost, low-power, yet above all robust alternative to the traditional spread-spectrum communications Techniques. In LoRa modulation the spreading of the spectrum is achieved by generating a chirp signal that continuously varies in frequency. An advantage of this method is that timing and frequency offsets between transmitter and receiver are equivalent, greatly reducing the complexity of the receiver design. The frequency bandwidth of this chirp is equivalent to the spectral bandwidth of the signal. 9 Modulation method This Device uses Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) as its modulation technique. The list of frequencies are as follows:

Frequency in Mhz 907.1 907.3 907.5 907.7 907.9 908.1 908.3 908.5 903.9 904.1 904.3 904.5 904.7 904.9 905.1 905.3 905.5 905.7 905.9 906.1 906.3 906.5 906.7 906.9 902.3 902.5 902.7 902.9 903.1 903.3 903.5 903.7 The FCC regulations for systems using frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) techniques can be summarized as follows:

911.9 912.1 912.3 912.5 912.7 912.9 913.1 913.3 908.7 908.9 909.1 909.3 909.5 909.7 909.9 910.1 910.3 910.5 910.7 910.9 911.1 911.3 911.5 911.7 913.5 913.7 913.9 914.1 914.3 914.5 914.7 914.9 Frequency hopping systems shall have hopping channel carrier frequencies separated by a minimum of 25 kHz or the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel, whichever is greater. The system shall hop to channel frequencies that are selected at the system hopping rate from a pseudo randomly ordered list of hopping frequencies. Each frequency must be used equally on the average by each transmitter (Ref:

15.247(a)(1)) If the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is less than 250 kHz, the system shall use at least 50 hopping frequencies and the average time of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than 400ms within a 20 second period (= 0.4 * 50 channels). If the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is 250 kHz or greater, the system shall use at least 25 hopping frequencies and the average time of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than 400 ms within a 10 second period (= 0.4 * 25 channels). In addition the maximum allowable 20 dB bandwidth of any hopping channel is 500 kHz

(Ref: 15.247(a)(1)(i)) The maximum peak conducted output power shall not exceed 1 W (+30 dBm) for systems employing at least 50 hopping channels and 250 mW (+24 dBm) for systems employing less than 50 hopping channels, but at least 25 hopping channels. As opposed to systems employing digital modulation, averaging measurement methods are not permitted (Ref: 15.247(b)(2)) Simplified Block Diagram 10 MCU STM32L433xx The STM32L433xx devices are the ultra-low-power microcontrollers based on the high performance Arm Cortex-M4 32-bit RISC core operating at a frequency of up to 80 MHz. The Cortex-M4 core features a Floating point unit (FPU) single precision which supports all Arm single-precision data-processing instructions and data types. It also implements a full set of DSP instructions and a memory protection unit (MPU) which enhances application security. The STM32L433xx devices embed high-speed memories (Flash memory up to 256 Kbyte, 64 Kbyte of SRAM), a Quad SPI flash memories interface (available on all packages) and an extensive range of enhanced I/Os and peripherals connected to two APB buses, two AHB buses and a 32-bit multi-AHB bus matrix. The STM32L433xx operates in the -40 to +85 C (+105 C junction), -40 to +105 C (+125 C junction) and -40 to +125 C (+130 C junction) temperature ranges from a 1.71 to 3.6 V VDD power supply when using internal LDO regulator and a 1.05 to 1.32V VDD12 power supply when using external SMPS supply. A comprehensive set of power-saving modes allows the design of low-power applications. RF Transceiver SX1276 LoRa Modem 168 dB maximum link budget

+20 dBm - 100 mW constant RF output vs. V supply

+14 dBm high efficiency PA Programmable bit rate up to 300 kbps High sensitivity: down to -148 dBm Bullet-proof front end: IIP3 = -11 dBm Excellent blocking immunity Low RX current of 9.9 mA, 200 nA register retention Fully integrated synthesizer with a resolution of 61 Hz FSK, GFSK, MSK, GMSK, LoRa and OOK modulation Built-in bit synchronizer for clock recovery Preamble detection 127 dB Dynamic Range RSSI 11 Automatic RF Sense and CAD with ultra-fast AFC Packet engine up to 256 bytes with CRC Built-in temperature sensor and low battery indicator Power amplifier RFFM6900 2.5V TO 4.2V, ISM BAND, 1W 915MHz Transmit/Receive Module The RFFM6900 is a single-chip front end module (FEM) for applications in the 900MHz and 868MHz.ISM Bands. The RFFM6900 contains an integrated 1 Watt PA, SP3T antenna switch, integrated Tx harmonic filter, Tx thru path, LNA with bypass mode, and matching components. The RFFM6900 is packaged in a 28-pin, 6.0mm x 6.0mm x 0.975mm over-molded laminate package with backside ground. Antenna The Taoglas FXP290 915 MHz ISM Antenna covers from 902-928 MHz used in the 915 MHz ISM (Industrial Scientific Medical) Band. The antenna has been designed in a flexible material with a square form-factor and cable connection for an easy installation. The antenna works on different plastic materials and thickness. We have selected a piece of ABS with 2 mm of thickness as a baseline for testing. Spec No. : FXP290 Part No. : FXP290.07.0100A Model : 915MHz ISM Band Flex Circuit Antenna Features : 75*45*0.1mm 100mm 1.13 cable 12 13 Integration instructions for host product manufacturers according to KDB 996369 D03 2.2 List of applicable FCC rules CFR 47 FCC PART 15 SUBPART C has been investigated. It is applicable to the modular Transmitter 2.3 Specific operational use conditions This module is stand-alone modular. If the end product will involve the Multiple simultaneously transmitting condition or different operational conditions for a stand-alone modular transmitter in a host, host manufacturer have to consult with module man 2.4 Limited module procedures This module is Limit single modular. 2.5 Trace antenna designs Not applicable 2.6 RF exposure considerations This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator &

your body. 2.7 Antennas This radio transmitter Y8E-VMDR has been approved by Federal Communications Commission to operate with the antenna types listed below, with the maximum permissible gain indicated. Antenna types not included in this list that have a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for any type listed are strictly prohibited for use with this device. Operating frequency band 902-928Mhz Antenna type External Antenna Maximum Antenna gain 1.5dbi 2.8 Label and compliance information The final end product must be labeled in a visible area with the following" Contains FCC ID: Y8E-

VMDR. 2.9 Information on test modes and additional testing requirements Host manufacturer is strongly recommended to confirm compliance with FCC requirements for the transmitter when the module is installed in the host. 2.10 Additional testing, Part 15 Subpart B disclaimer Host manufacturer is responsible for compliance of the host system with module installed with all other applicable requirements for the system such as Part 15 B. INSTRUCTION TO THE USER This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. FCC CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.

SHENZHEN LCS COMPLIANCE TESTING LABORATORY LTD. FCC ID: Y8E-VMDR Label and Location VM 1W LoRa modem with dual receiver M/N: A-00700-VL FCC ID: Y8E-VMDR Size: L2.0cm*W1.0cm Label Location This report shall not be reproduced except in full, without the written approval of Shenzhen LCS Compliance Testing Laboratory Ltd. Page 1 of 1

Vision Metering, LLC Agent Authorization Company: Vision Metering, LLC Address: 7 Ross Cannon St. York, SC 29745 USA Product Name: VM 1W LoRa modem with dual receiver Trade Mark: Vision Metering, LLC Model Number(s): A-00700-VL FCC ID: Y8E-VMDR We authorize MiCOM Labs Inc., 575 Boulder Court, Pleasanton, California 94566, USA, to act on our behalf on all matters concerning the certification of above named equipment. We declare that MiCOM Labs Inc. is allowed to forward all information related to the approval and certification of equipment to the regulatory agencies as required and to discuss any issues concerning the approval application. Any and all acts carried out by MiCOM Labs on our behalf shall have the same effect as acts of our own. Signature:

Date: 2020-10-14 Name:

Randy Howard Austin Title:

President Company: Vision Metering, LLC

Vision Metering, LLC Federal Communications Commission Equipment Authorization Division 7435 Oakland Mills Road Columbia, MD 21046 USA Date: 2020-10-14 Subject; Modular Transmitter Application Company name: Vision Metering, LLC FCC ID: Y8E-VMDR Dear Sir/Madam, This letter includes the FCC application requirements for Modular Transmitter Approval Request for;-

FCC KDB 996369 D01 Module Certification Guide v02; and FCC KDB 996369 D03 OEM Manual v01 In accordance with 47CFR 15.212 Modular Transmitters and KDB 996369 D01 Module Equip Auth Guide v02. FCC ID Y8E-VMDR has been examined against the following requirements. Requirement per 15.212 and KDB 996369 D01 Explanation from Grantee The radio elements must have the radio frequency circuitry shielded. Physical components and tuning capacitor(s) may be located external to the shield, but must be on the module assembly. The module must have buffered modulation/data inputs to ensure that the device will comply with Part 15 requirements with any type of input signal.

(do not write yes/no, but explain why product complies/how it is achieved) The shielding is provided by the host device. The compliance is demonstrated by the host manufacturer for a specific host device. The Host Device is an Energy Meter that will be installed outdoors. A trained professional installs the module into the host device. Yes, all inputs to the modules are buffered through logic or microprocessor inputs. FCC Modular Approval Request Rev 3.0 Vision Metering, LLC The module must contain power supply regulation on the module. The module must contain a permanently attached antenna, or contain a unique antenna connector, and be marketed and operated only with specific antenna(s), per 15.203, 15.204(b), 15.204(c), 15.212(a), 2.929(b). Yes, a Voltage regulator is used for modular power supply regulation. Yes, the module is attached to an external Antenna, refer user manual. The module must demonstrate compliance in a stand-alone configuration. Yes, EUT was tested in a stand-alone configuration. The module must be labeled with its permanently affixed FCC ID label, or use an electronic display (see KDB Publication 784748). Yes, the label with FCC ID is fixed on the Module. The module must comply with all specific rules applicable to the transmitter, including all the conditions provided in the integration instructions by the grantee. The module must comply with RF exposure requirements Yes, The module complies with all the specific rules applicable to the transmitter including all the conditions provided in the integration instructions by the grantee, refer to test report and user Manual. Yes, the module meets the minimum requirements of RF exposure. Integration Instructions for host product manufacturers The following items are submitted in support of application for Modular Transmitter FCC ID as noted above as required by the FCC KDB 996369 D03 OEM Manual v01. These items are provided as integration instructions for host product manufacturers (e.g., OEM instruction manual) to use when integrating a module in a host product. Any requirements that are not applicable to the Module are as indicated below. Summary of requirements and Checklist. Refer to the KDB for description of the complete requirements;

KDB Requirements of KDB 996369 D03 User Manual Page Number reference Ref Sect 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 List of applicable FCC rules Summarize the specific operational use conditions Limited module procedures Trace antenna designs Page 13 Page 13 Page 13 Page 13 FCC Modular Approval Request Rev 3.0 Vision Metering, LLC RF exposure considerations Antennas Label and compliance information 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 Information on test modes and additional testing requirements Page 13 Page 12 and 13 Page 13 Page 13 2.10 Additional testing, Part 15 Subpart B disclaimer Page 13 Name: Randy Howard Austin Date: 2020-10-114 Title: President Signature of applicant FCC Modular Approval Request Rev 3.0

Vision Metering, LLC Office of Engineering Technology Federal Communications Commission 7435 Oakland Mills Road Columbia, MD 21046 USA Date: 2020-10-14 Subject; Request for Confidentiality FCC ID: Y8E-VMDR To Whom It May Concern, Pursuant to the provisions of the Commissions rules Title 47 Sections 0.457 and 0.459, we are requesting the Commission to withhold the following attachment(s) as confidential documents from public disclosure indefinitely. These documents contain detailed system and equipment descriptions and are considered as proprietary information in operation of the equipment. The public disclosure of these documents might be harmful to our company and would give competitors an unfair advantage in the market. Schematic Diagram Block Diagram Parts List Operational Description Tune-up Procedure External Photos Test Setup Photos Internal Photos User Manual In additional to above mentioned documents, in order to comply with the marketing regulations in Title 47 CFR 2.803 and the importation rules in Title 47 CFR 2.1204, while ensuring that business sensitive information remains confidential until the actual marketing of newly authorized devices, we request Short Term Confidentiality of the following attachment(s);

OR For 45 days, pursuant to Public Notice DA 04-1705. For 180 days pursuant to KDB 726920 D01. It is our understanding that all measurement test reports, FCC ID label format and correspondence during the certification review process cannot be granted as confidential documents and this information will be available for public review once the grant of equipment authorization is issued. Sincerely, Signature:

Name: Randy Howard Austin Title: President