Overview

When using a Robustel gateway with a SIM card, the device usually connects to the cellular network automatically. However, in some scenarios, such as using a private network or a specific carrier plan, the gateway may fail to obtain an IP address because it doesn't know the correct Access Point Name (APN). This guide provides a step-by-step process for manually configuring the APN on Robustel gateways running RobustOS to establish a successful cellular internet connection.

What You'll Need

Hardware List:

• 1 x Robustel Gateway (e.g., R1520, R2110, R5020)
• 1 x Activated SIM Card
• 1 x PC with an Ethernet port
• 1 x Ethernet Cable
• 1 x Power Adapter for the gateway

Software/Firmware:

• RobustOS Firmware V5.0.0 or newer

Other:

• APN information (APN name, and if required, username and password) from your SIM card provider.
  
• Log in to the Router's web interface. The default IP address is typically http://192.168.0.1.

Step-by-Step Configuration Guide

Configure the APN Settings

1. Navigate to Interface -> Link Manager from the main menu on the left.
2. Click on the Link Manager tab.
3. In the General Settings section, ensure the Primary Link is set to the correct cellular interface. Use WWAN1 if your SIM card is in slot 1, or WWAN2 if it is in slot 2.
4. Scroll down to the Link Settings section. Click the Edit button (pencil icon) for the corresponding WWAN interface (e.g., WWAN1).
5. A configuration window will pop up. Locate the WWAN Settings section.

1. Toggle Automatic APN Selection to OFF.
2. Enter the APN provided by your carrier.
3. If your carrier requires them, enter the Username and Password.

6. Scroll to the bottom of the pop-up window and click Submit.
7. Click the Save & Apply button at the top right corner of the main page to save all changes.

Verification & Testing

You can verify it through the following two steps:

1. Check the System Status Page
Navigate to the Status page. In the Internet Status widget, you should see an IPv4 Address assigned by the carrier.

2. Use the Ping Tool

1. Navigate to System -> Tools 
   
2. Click on Ping tab
3. In the IP address field, enter a public IP address or domain name (e.g., 8.8.8.8).
4. Click the start button.
5. If the connection is successful, you will see a series of replies with round-trip times, indicating that your gateway is connected to the internet.
   

Troubleshooting / FAQ

• Q: I don't know my APN. Where can I find it?

• A: You must get the APN information from your SIM card provider or mobile carrier. It is specific to their network and your data plan.

• Q: I configured the APN, but the gateway still won't connect. What should I do?

• A:

1. Double-check credentials: Ensure the APN, username, and password are typed correctly. They are often case-sensitive.
2. Check SIM Status: Navigate to Interface -> Cellular -> Status. Verify that your SIM card is detected and check the Signal Strength. Poor signal can prevent a connection.
3. Verify Link Manager: In Interface -> Link Manager, confirm that the Primary Link is set to the correct WWAN interface (WWAN1 for SIM1, WWAN2 for SIM2).
4. Reboot: Click the Reboot button at the top of the page to perform a system restart.

• Q: Does "Save & Apply" reboot the device?

• A: No, "Save & Apply" saves the configuration to flash memory and applies it. If the button turns yellow, it indicates that some changes require a reboot to become fully active. It's good practice to reboot if you encounter issues after applying a new configuration.

Revision History