Newbie questions for cellular modules...

Hello – I’ve never used a cellular module before like the Telit or the AVR-GSM. I am planning on getting one to add to a project. However, I have a couple of basic newbie questions regarding how these work before I buy one. I’ve never communicated via one of these before.

  1. I see that they operate off of an activated SIM card. Can this simply be a SIM card activated with “voice” service or does the account need to have a “data” plan as well? I’m wondering if the communication these modules produce look like voice conversation to the service or do they look like data.

  2. I’m trying to design the land-line side of my communications. What type of device do you call with these modules? Do I call a land-line with a modem attached (like an old-school 14.4Kbs modem) and talk that way or is it some other form?

I’m looking to be able to:

  1. Call this module from a land-line and give commands.

  2. SMS text this module from another cell phone and give commands.

  3. Have this module send SMS texts to another cell phone with data.

  4. Have this module send data to a local PM with a modem attached.

Can I do that with one of these?

Sorry for such basic questions!

Thanks…Rich