Designed & Made in the USA Since 1983
The MobileCollect Command Mobile Module is a wireless transmitter that does everything the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E does — and adds the ability to receive read commands wirelessly from a paired MobileCollect Base. That means measurements can be triggered by the Read button on the module, the button on the gage cable, a foot switch or hand switch at the Base, or a direct serial command from your SPC software, MES, or custom control system — whichever fits the application.
This matters in automated inspection stations, fixture-based measurement, and multi-gage systems where measurement timing is a controlled process variable — not an operator action. Compatible with over 3,500 digital gage devices across 30+ connector types.
Note: A gage connector is not included. Order the appropriate connector separately using the MobileCollect Selection Tool.
Compatible Gages – 3,500+ devices
Wireless Range – Up to 140 ft
Battery – CR2 Photo Lithium (800 mAh)
Read Modes – Single, Continuous, TIR
Dimensions / Weight – 2.13″ × 1.44″ × 0.79″ / 1.5 oz
Certifications – FCC, IC, CE, RoHS2, REACH
Gage Connector – Sold separately — 30+ options
Origin – Designed & Made in the USA
$395.00
The Command Mobile Module attaches to a digital gage the same way any MobileCollect Mobile Module transmitter does — via a gage connector cable, mounted to the instrument body with Dual Lock adhesive strips. The critical difference is its two-way communication architecture. Where the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E waits for the operator to press a Read button, the Command Mobile Module stays in a low-power listening state and wakes on command from its paired Base.
The Base issues a read command. The Command Mobile Module receives it, triggers the gage, captures the measurement, transmits the value back to the Base, and the Base routes it to the connected PC — into your SPC software, MES, or any application running on the host. From the perspective of a quality system, the measurement event is initiated by a controlled process input, not an uncontrolled operator action.
For quality engineers, this distinction has direct implications for measurement system control under ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5, IATF 16949, AS9100D, and 21 CFR Part 820 — standards that require not just data integrity, but control over the measurement process itself.
The Base receives a trigger to send a read command to paired Command Mobile Modules through one of two paths:
Read Switch (Foot Switch or Hand Switch): A foot switch or hand switch plugged into the Base’s read switch port sends a configurable command to all active Command Mobile Modules on the system. This is the primary method for most production floor applications — the operator is positioned at the Base, actuates the switch, and the measurement is captured from the gage at the fixture or station without the operator touching the instrument or the Mobile Module. Read switch behavior is fully configurable through the Extended Setup Program: single read, read all, set active, set standby, or turn off.
Serial Command from Host Computer: The Base accepts serial commands directly from the connected PC, which means your SPC software, MES, or a custom application can programmatically issue read requests. The command set covers triggering individual modules by channel, triggering all active modules, setting operational modes, querying battery status, and managing timeout timers. For facilities where measurement collection is orchestrated by process software rather than by operators, this path eliminates human-initiated variability from the measurement trigger entirely.
Both paths can be used in the same system. Read switch control is appropriate for most applications. Host computer commands are appropriate for higher-complexity automation or software-integrated inspection systems.
Under ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5 (Monitoring and Measuring Resources), IATF 16949 (MSA, SPC process integration), AS9100D, and 21 CFR Part 820 Section 820.72 (Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment), organizations are required to control not just the calibration of measurement instruments, but the measurement process itself — including how data is collected, recorded, and routed to quality records.
The Command Mobile Module supports these requirements at the process level. Remote command triggering removes the measurement initiation event from operator discretion and places it under system control — a foot switch, a process signal, or a software command from the SPC system. Combined with automated data routing from gage to software, the measurement process becomes a controlled, repeatable, auditable sequence: trigger → acquisition → transmission → data record. No manual transcription. No operator-dependent collection timing. No opportunity for selective data entry.
For IATF 16949 SPC compliance, the ability to trigger measurements directly from statistical software via serial command closes the loop between the measurement system and the control chart — readings enter the SPC database at the collection event without intermediate handling.
The Command Mobile Module operates in one of four states, each balancing responsiveness against battery consumption. These are controlled by the Base via serial commands or read switches.
Active Mode — The module wakes every 0.5 seconds to listen for a command. Default timeout is 10 minutes of inactivity before the module enters Off mode. This is the standard operating mode for measurement collection.
Standby Mode — The module wakes every 10 seconds to listen. Default timeout is 5 minutes. Used during machine cycles or process steps where measurements are not being collected but the system needs to remain responsive.
Extended Standby Mode — The module wakes every 60 seconds. Default timeout is 3 minutes. Appropriate for longer pauses in production where power conservation takes priority over response latency.
Off Mode — The module is fully inactive. It must be reactivated by pressing the Setup button on the module or by a command from the Base while in an appropriate mode.
Timeout durations for all three active modes are configurable via the Extended Setup Program or via host computer serial commands. Keeping timeout values matched to the actual production cycle length maximizes CR2 battery life.
Unlike the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E, the Command Mobile Module automatically identifies the gage cable type connected to its 14-pin port when power is restored (Warm Start). This eliminates the reconfiguration step required when swapping gage cables between instruments of different output types, reducing setup time in multi-gage or frequently reconfigured environments. When a new gage cable is connected and the module performs a Warm Start, user-defined configuration parameters are preserved.
The Command Mobile Module supports all gage types covered by the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E, plus additional instrument types not available on the M3E. Compatible output types include the standard digital (data/clock) outputs from all major metrology brands — Mitutoyo, Mahr Federal, Starrett, Brown & Sharpe, CDI, Fowler, Insize, LMI, Ono Sokki, Sylvac, and others. Use the MobileCollect Selection Tool to confirm compatibility and identify the correct gage connector for your specific instrument.
For RS-232 instruments requiring full ±5V signal levels, the RS-232 V2 Mobile Module is the appropriate transmitter.
All MobileCollect products communicate over MicroRidge’s proprietary RM2.4 protocol — 2.4 GHz ISM band, 32-bit encrypted, purpose-built for industrial measurement environments. RM2.4 supports the two-way communication architecture the Command Mobile Module requires: the Base broadcasts attention commands to the module, the module wakes, acknowledges, and receives the read instruction, then transmits the measurement data back. This full duplex interaction happens reliably in factory environments with welding equipment, VFDs, Wi-Fi infrastructure, and competing RF sources — conditions where Bluetooth-based systems produce dropped readings and pairing failures. See Why Bluetooth Fails in Manufacturing for a detailed protocol comparison.
Pairing stores the Base’s unique identifiers in the transmitter. Only transmitters bearing the correct identifiers are processed by the Base — ensuring data from one measurement system is never cross-contaminated into an adjacent system’s data stream.
For facilities running multiple independent measurement cells using command mode, a unique RF channel per Base is recommended. When the Base is sending attention commands to mobile modules in Extended Standby mode, it broadcasts continuously for up to 60 seconds — if two command-mode systems share an RF channel, those broadcasts will interfere with adjacent systems. Unique RF channels per Base eliminate that contention entirely. For systems using only Mini Mobile Module EVO M3Es, Command Mobile Modules or Remotes without command mode active, channel separation is not required.
The Command Mobile Module uses a CR2 Photo Lithium 3V battery rated at 800 mAh — more than three times the capacity of the CR2032 used by the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E. The higher capacity accommodates the elevated power demand of Active mode, where the module wakes every 0.5 seconds to listen for commands. Battery life is a function of Active mode duty cycle: systems that keep modules in Active mode continuously will consume battery faster than systems that transition modules between Active, Standby, and Off states according to the production cycle. CR2 batteries are universally available without ordering from MicroRidge.
A low-battery warning is issued via the Gage Read LED — 6 red blinks following a successful reading — providing advance notice before battery voltage drops below the radio’s minimum operating threshold of 1.8V.
The Command Mobile Module shares the same two-LED confirmation architecture as all MobileCollect Mobile Module transmitters:
Gage Read LED — Flashes red (~150 ms) when a measurement is successfully obtained from the gage. Two red blinks indicate a gage read failure.
Host Accept LED — Flashes green (~150 ms) when the Base confirms receipt of the transmitted measurement. Five blinks indicate the Base did not acknowledge the transmission.
Additional LED behavior specific to the Command Mobile Module: while in Active mode, the green Host Accept LED blinks briefly each time the module wakes to listen for a command (every 0.5 seconds). In Standby mode, both green LEDs blink every 2 seconds as a heartbeat indicator. In Extended Standby, both green LEDs blink every 4 seconds. This provides continuous operational state visibility without requiring a software connection.
The Command Mobile Module supports three read modes configurable via the Xpress or Extended Setup Program, effectively adding smart data collection capability to any compatible gage regardless of what the instrument natively supports. A basic digital caliper with no onboard memory or mode control becomes a continuous-read or TIR-capable measurement station when paired with the Command Mobile Module:
Single — One reading per button press. Factory default.
Continuous — Readings taken at a defined interval without repeated button presses. Used in applications requiring sustained data capture.
TIR (Total Indicator Runout) — Captures minimum, maximum, and TIR value across a measurement sweep. Used in runout and flatness inspection applications.
Command mode is disabled by default when the module ships. Enabling it and configuring channel assignments, read switch behavior, and timeout timers requires the Extended Setup Program. Once configured, day-to-day operation requires no software interaction — the system operates through read switches or host commands per the stored configuration.
Before the Command Mobile Module (DC) can transmit to a Base, it must be paired with it. Pairing stores the Base’s unique identifiers in the module. Three pairing methods are available:
Pair-on-the-Fly — No software required. Uses the module’s Setup and Read buttons with the Base’s Reset button. For basic deployments where command mode is not being used, this is sufficient.
Extended Setup Program — Required for command mode configuration. Covers channel assignment, Module ID entry, read switch function definition, timeout timer settings, and module pairing via software.
Host Computer Serial Commands — A full command set allows the host application to pair/unpair modules, set operational modes, configure timeout timers, trigger read sequences, and query module status (battery voltage, signal strength, channel state) programmatically. This path is appropriate for SPC software integration or custom application development.
Command Mobile Module firmware is field-upgradeable via MicroRidge’s firmware update utility, downloadable from the MicroRidge MobileCollect firmware updates page. The update utility is designed to prevent incorrect firmware from being loaded into any MobileCollect device. The update process involves placing the Command Mobile Module into Firmware Update Mode via a specific Setup/Read button sequence and completing the upload within the firmware update utility.
The Command Mobile Module is compatible with all MobileCollect Base Receivers. For command mode applications, full-size Bases are recommended over MicroBases — they provide read switch connectors and dedicated Reset buttons that simplify pairing and operational control.
EVO Wedge Base — Desktop Base Receiver with selectable USB Serial and USB Keyboard Wedge output. Outputs data as keystrokes directly into any active application — Excel, web-based SPC, Power BI, and others — without additional software. Recommended for stationary workstation deployments.
EVO RS-232 Base — Desktop Base with USB Serial and DB9 RS-232 output ports. Well-suited for PLC-controlled measurement systems and applications requiring serial command integration with process equipment.
MicroBase EVO USB-A / USB-C — Dongle-sized Bases supporting both USB Serial and Keyboard Wedge output. Compatible with Command Mobile Modules; however, MicroBases do not have read switch connectors. Control of Command Mobile Modules from a MicroBase requires host computer serial commands.
The Command Mobile Module covers applications requiring remote-triggered or software-controlled measurement collection. For applications outside that scope, the following transmitters are available — and importantly, all MobileCollect transmitters can be paired to a single Base Receiver simultaneously, meaning any combination of the transmitters below can operate together as part of the same data collection system.
Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E — Use when the operator will initiate each measurement by pressing the Read button. The M3E is the recommended transmitter for standard handheld measurement collection — smaller, lighter, and simpler to configure than the Command Mobile Module. No command mode, no Extended Setup Program required for most deployments.
Digital Remote — Use when the digital gage is stationary rather than handheld and your application requires the same remote read automation capability as the Command Mobile Module. The Digital Remote is USB-powered — no battery — and is the correct choice for fixed measurement stations where mobility is not needed.
RS-232 V2 Mobile Module — Use when your RS-232 instrument requires mobility and a battery-powered transmitter. The V2 RS-232 Mobile Module handles full RS-232 voltage levels (±5V and above) that the Command Mobile Module and M3E do not support.
RS-232 Remote — Use when your stationary RS-232 device requires remote read automation at a fixed workstation. USB-powered, with automatic baud rate detection.
What is the difference between the Command Mobile Module and the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E?
— The primary difference is read trigger control. The M3E requires the operator to press its Read button to take a measurement. The Command Mobile Module can receive a wireless read command from its paired Base — issued by a foot switch, hand switch, or serial command from a host computer. This enables automated and software-controlled measurement collection without operator button presses. The Command Mobile Module also supports standby modes for power management in duty-cycled applications and can be individually addressed in multi-module systems with up to 20 channels per Base.
When does a foot switch or hand switch trigger the Command Mobile Module?
— A foot or hand switch plugs into the read switch port on the MobileCollect Base. When actuated, the Base sends a wireless read command to the Command Mobile Modules assigned to it. The function triggered by each read switch is configurable: single channel read, read all active modules, set all to standby, or turn all off. All read switch functions are defined in the Extended Setup Program.
Can my SPC software trigger readings directly?
— Yes. The Base accepts a full command set via its USB Serial or RS-232 port. SPC software or a custom application can send serial commands to the Base to trigger readings on specific channels, trigger all channels, set operational modes, query battery and signal status, and manage timeout timers. This enables fully software-orchestrated measurement collection cycles without operator involvement.
Does the Command Mobile Module require the Extended Setup Program?
— Command mode is disabled by default, and enabling it requires the Extended Setup Program — which covers channel assignment, Module ID entry, read switch function definition, and timeout timer configuration. If the Command Mobile Module is configured with the Xpress Setup Program, command mode will be disabled. Since the remote read capability is the primary reason to choose the Command Mobile Module over the M3E, we recommend using the Extended Setup Program from the start rather than the Xpress Setup Program or Pair-on-the-Fly method, even for simple initial deployments.
How long does the battery last?
— Battery life depends on command mode configuration and duty cycle. In Active mode, the module wakes every 0.5 seconds to listen for commands — this is the highest-draw mode. Systems that transition modules between Active, Standby, and Off states based on the production cycle will extend battery life significantly. The CR2 battery is rated at 800 mAh. A low-battery warning (6 red LED blinks after a reading) alerts the operator before voltage drops to the radio’s minimum operating threshold.
How many Command Mobile Modules can one Base control?
— Up to 20 individually addressable channels per Base. Each channel holds one Command Mobile Module ID. The Base can trigger a single channel, a defined subset, or all active channels in sequence from a single foot switch press or serial command. The same Base can also simultaneously support Mini Mobile Module EVO M3Es, RS-232 Mobile Modules, and Remotes — so a mixed system combining command-triggered and operator-triggered transmitters operates on a single Base and network.
What happens if the Command Mobile Module doesn’t receive a command for too long?
— Each operational mode has a configurable timeout. At the defaults, a module in Active mode that receives no commands for 10 minutes will enter Off mode to preserve battery. Once in Off mode, it must be reactivated by pressing the Setup button on the module or by a Base command issued from the appropriate mode. Timeout durations are configurable to match the production cycle length.
Does the Command Mobile Module support ISO 9001, IATF 16949, AS9100, or 21 CFR Part 820 measurement requirements?
— Yes. Remote-commanded measurement collection supports quality system requirements that extend beyond data integrity to measurement process control. Triggering measurements from a foot switch or process software — rather than from an operator pressing a button — removes operator-initiated variability from the measurement event. Combined with automated data routing from gage to SPC or quality records, the system eliminates manual transcription error and creates an auditable measurement sequence: controlled trigger → gage acquisition → wireless transmission → data record. Two-LED per-reading confirmation provides operator-observable verification at each step.
Does the Command Mobile Module use the same gage connectors as the Mini Mobile Module EVO M3E?
— No. The Command Mobile Module DC uses a 14-pin male gage connection; the M3E uses a 6-pin (M3) or 8-pin (M3E) male. Gage connector cables for the two modules are not interchangeable. Use the MobileCollect Selection Tool to identify the correct connector for your instrument and module combination.
What wireless protocol does the Command Mobile Module use?
— MicroRidge’s proprietary RM2.4 protocol, operating in the 2.4 GHz ISM band with 32-bit encryption. RM2.4 supports the two-way communication required for command mode operation — the Base broadcasts commands, the module acknowledges, and measurement data is returned — reliably in industrial RF environments.
What are the operating environment limits?
— 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C), up to 90% relative humidity, non-condensing.
Command Mobile Module DC (MC-MM-DC) Specs | |
|---|---|
Part Number | MC-MM-DC |
Dimensions | 2.13″ × 1.44″ × 0.79″ |
Weight | 1.5 oz |
Wireless Protocol | MicroRidge RM2.4, 2.4 GHz ISM band (2.4000–2.4835 GHz) |
Encryption | 32-bit |
Wireless Range | Up to 140 ft (40 m), line-of-sight indoors |
Compatible Gages | 3,500+ devices |
Transmitter Connection | 14-pin male, sold separately |
Gage Connector Options | 30+ options available |
Gage Auto-Detection | Yes — automatically identifies connected gage cable type |
Read Trigger | Remote command from Base (foot/hand switch or host computer serial command) |
Operator Read Button | Yes — Read button on module also functional |
Read Modes | Single, Continuous, TIR |
Operational Modes | Off, Active, Standby, Extended Standby |
Active Mode Wake Interval | 0.5 seconds |
Standby Mode Wake Interval | 10 seconds |
Extended Standby Wake Interval | 60 seconds |
Default Timeout — Active | 10 minutes |
Default Timeout — Standby | 5 minutes |
Default Timeout — Extended Standby | 3 minutes |
Multi-Module Channels | Up to 20 individually addressable channels per Base |
Battery | CR2 Photo Lithium, 3V, 800 mAh |
Battery Life | Depends on command mode usage and wake interval |
Buttons | Read + Setup; rated 1,000,000 cycles each |
LED Status Indicators | Gage Read (bi-color) + Host Accept (bi-color) |
Output Format | Defined by MobileCollect Setup Programs |
Configuration | Extended Setup Program required for command mode |
Firmware | Field-upgradeable |
Operating Temperature | 32°F to 122°F |
Operating Humidity | ≤90% RH, non-condensing |
Certifications | FCC (ID: 2ACNQRM2), IC (12298A-RM2), CE, RoHS2, REACH |
Country of Origin | Designed & Made in the USA |
Base Receiver Compatibility | All MobileCollect RM2.4 Base Receiver models (Legacy and EVO) |
Gage Connector Included | No — order separately |
