Overview

This guide provides instructions for remotely upgrading the firmware on a Robustel R1520 router (or other ROS-based device) using SMS commands. This method is ideal for devices deployed in locations with difficult physical access, allowing for essential updates to be deployed efficiently. The process involves hosting the firmware file on a server, configuring the router to accept SMS commands, and then sending a specific text message to initiate the upgrade.

What You'll Need

• Hardware:

• 1 x Robustel R1520 Router (or other ROS device)
• 1 x Active SIM card with an internet data plan inserted into the router
• 1 x Mobile phone capable of sending SMS
• 1 x Server (http or FTP) accessible from the internet

• Software/Firmware:

• The target firmware file for your router model.

• Other:

• A direct download link for the firmware file hosted on your server. The link must allow a direct download without requiring any clicks on a webpage.

Step-by-Step Configuration Guide

Phase 1: Prepare the Firmware Server

1. Deploy a Server: Install and deploy a web (HTTP/HTTPS) or FTP server that is accessible from the public internet.
2. Upload Firmware: Upload the target firmware file to the server.
3. Generate Link: Create a direct download link for the uploaded firmware file.

Phase 2: Configure the R1520 Router for SMS Management

1. Log into Router: Access the web interface of your R1520 router.
2. Navigate to SMS Settings: On the left-hand menu, go to Services -> SMS.
3. Enable SMS Management:

• Select the SMS tab.
• Set Enable to ON.
• Set the Authentication Type to Password. This guide uses password authentication as an example.
• (Optional) You can enter a specific Phone Number to restrict SMS control to a single device.

4. Save Configuration: Click Submit, and then click Save & Apply to store the changes.
   
   

Phase 3: Send the SMS Command

1. Send Update Command: From your mobile phone, send the following SMS command to the router's phone number:

admin:admin;urlupdate https://your-server-address/path/to/firmware.upg

• Command Structure:Username:Password;urlupdate url
• Replace admin:admin with your router's actual username and password.
• Replace the URL with the direct download link you created in Phase 1.

2. Send Reboot Command: After receiving a success message for the upgrade, send a second SMS to reboot the device and apply the changes:

admin:admin;reboot

• Command Structure:Username:Password;reboot;



Verification & Testing

1. Check SMS Replies: Monitor your phone for replies from the router. You should receive messages confirming the download and upgrade success, followed by a reboot confirmation.
2. Check Firmware Version: After the router reboots, log back into the web interface. Navigate to the Status page and check the System Information widget. Verify that the Firmware Version now shows the new version number.

Troubleshooting / FAQ

• Q: I sent the SMS command but did not receive a reply. What should I do?

• A: Verify that the SIM card in the router is active and has a data plan. Ensure the router has a cellular IP address. Double-check that you have sent the command to the correct phone number and that the SMS management feature is enabled on the router.

• Q: The SMS reply says "Download failed." What could be the issue?

• A: Ensure the URL in your SMS command is correct and is a direct download link. Check that your server is online and accessible from the public internet. Also, confirm the router has a stable internet connection.

Revision History