A Skylink customer named Brandon has posted a screenshot of the error message on Reddit. He contacted Starlink support, which told him, “Dishy will go into thermal shutdown at 122F and will restart when it reaches 104F.” Brandon decided to give the dish a little water to help with a cool down. He pointed a sprinkler at Dishy, and once it cooled enough to turn back on, “I immediately heard Video streaming resume playback,” Patrick wrote yesterday
Officially, SpaceX has said that “Dishy McFlatface” is certified to operate from 22° below zero up to 104° Fahrenheit. Temperatures reached about 120° yesterday in Brandon’s town of Topock, near Arizona’s border with California, he said. Though Dishy doesn’t go into thermal shutdown until it hits 122°, the dish can obviously get hotter than the air temperature.
Take a Closer Look at the Sierra 5G xXR90 (Click here)
The performance, capability, and reliability of the XR Series complement our award-winning network, and it’s been great to see the positive feedback from our customers who are trialing the XR Series. Sierra wireless explains “We’re also working with our customers to deploy instant connectivity and ease of scale across a wide range of industries and businesses, and we continue to drive innovation to deliver the best customer experience and respond to growing customer demands leveraging
Best-In-Class Reliability: A passively cooled, IP64 industrial design enables the rugged XR Series to operate in even the toughest environmental conditions experienced by routers integrated into police, transit, and utility vehicles, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and other commercial and industrial equipment.
Future-proof Flexibility: Built for both fixed and mobile applications, the XR Series offers single and dual 5G, and Wi-Fi 6 radio options. In addition, the XR Series’ unique cartridge design enables customers to expand and upgrade their routers without replacing the router.
Rapid Response: All XR Series routers include a unique dedicated LPWA cellular connection through Sierra Wireless Global Connectivity. Customers can easily deploy the routers through zero-touch configuration by using the intuitive, cloud-based AirLink Management Service (ALMS), and still maintain their routers, even if they are not able to connect to public or private 5G or LTE networks.
Strong Security: The XR Series enables customers to reduce security risks in their 5G deployment with multi-layered end-to-end security. This modern platform approach to security protects data from devices to the cloud, with a hardware-accelerated VPN for secure transport, secure boot, unique cryptographic keys that connect the router to ALMS, and use of the Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA-3) protocol.
Verizon first released 5G hot spot is currently be returned due to over heating and fire, at least 15 Verizon customers were seriously “inconvenienced” by one such low-cost gadget, which proved anything but reliable when it overheated, causing six known cases of fire damage to bedding or flooring and more worryingly, two instances of minor burn injuries. 2.5 million devices recalled, 1 million+ still in use today.
Verizon has started a total recall of every single Ellipsis Jetpack sold in Verizon stores nationwide, as well as “other stores and to school districts nationwide in addition to the carrier’s official website from April 2017 through March 2021.
In an increasingly technology-driven world, there ultimately will be failures of that technology in one way or another. When talking about connectivity, specifically internet connectivity, there is a single simple troubleshooting step that resolves a majority of issues. What is that step? A reboot! Consider the last time you had to call your internet provider because there was an issue, what is the first thing they ask you to do? A reboot or power cycle of a modem or router will oftentimes solve connectivity issues without any further troubleshooting required. If you are on-site with the equipment that needs to be rebooted this is simple, but what happens when remote equipment fails? Enter the 5Gstore Remote Power Switches.
The 5Gstore Remote Power Switches are simple devices that will automatically power-cycle nearly any equipment when internet connectivity is lost. The setup is simple with an ethernet connection from the Remote Power Switch to the network you want to monitor. Plug the equipment into the Power Switch that you want to power-cycle, like a modem or router, and enable the UIS feature of the Power Switch. If the internet connection drops, the switch will power off, then back on, the connected equipment. The Switch will then allow time for the equipment to reboot completely, and then check for internet connectivity again. All of this happens completely automatically without any user intervention required.
For the business owner, the Remote Power Switch is a money saver. Any remote equipment that requires an internet connection should have a Power Switch installed alongside it. Instead of a truck roll to remote equipment, which costs time and money, the Switch will try to reboot equipment first to bring it back online.
Cloud Management by App and Browser
The 5Gstore Remote Power switches also support Cloud4UIS, which is a cloud based management system accessible via any internet connected web browser, or mobile application on iOS and Android. Cloud4UIS allows users to monitor the status of the Switch itself, as well as the power state of the outlet. Users can also manually control remote outlets for devices other than modems and routers. 5Gstore customers have used the Power Switch for lighting, garage door openers and gates, thermostats, and more. The Remote Power Switch also supports power schedules, which will turn remote equipment on or off based on set dates and times.
There are two versions of the 5Gstore Remote Power Switch; the Single Outlet Switch and Two Outlet Switch. The Single Outlet Switch is a ‘set-it and forget-it device that doesn’t feature heavy customization. Ping targets can not be manually configured on this version so it is ideal for monitoring internet connectivity and rebooting a modem, router, or modem/router combo. Up to 5 scheduled events can be created on the Single Outlet Remote Power Switch, along with the automated reboots based on internet connectivity.
Dual Outlet Remote Power Switch
The Two Outlet Power switch supports up to 20 scheduled events, along with the automated reboot feature. Five custom ping targets can be configured, and targets can be assigned to individual outlets, or assigned to both. A modem could be plugged into outlet one, a separate router into outlet two, and the power cycles can be staggered so the modem has time to come online before the router.
The Two Outlet Switch also supports email notifications for alerting of automatic events so you are never in the dark when it comes to remote device status. The Two Outlet Switch also supports Dynamic DNS for remote access and administration, as well as the ability to change the local web admin port for maximum flexibility when deployed in large networks.
Both models of the Remote Power Switch support a maximum of 10Amps, and a replaceable fuse protects equipment from damage. Any networking equipment, modems, routers, industrial PCs, and more, can be remotely power cycled. Things like electric heaters and AC units aren’t recommended without checking the rating of the device.
Whether you are a user that needs to power-cycle a modem or router to regain internet connectivity, a business looking to automatically or remotely reset equipment, or need to create a power schedule for equipment, the 5Gstore Remote Power Switch can do the job.
Whether you are going to install and manage a cellular router or deploy a cellular signal booster or amplifier system, there are a few acronyms that you’ll frequently encounter. RSSI, RSRP, and RSRQ.
While these things may sound daunting at first, we’ll break it down to what you need to know and provide a real-world example of how this info can be used.
RSSI is short for Received Signal Strength Indicator and is a measure of cellular signal strength. RSSI is displayed as a negative number from 0dBm (best signal) to -110dBm (weakest/no signal). RSSI is used when measuring the strength of 3G networks. A cellular router or cellular amplifier may show an RSSI of -70dBm, which would be a strong connection.
RSRP is short for Reference Signal Received Power, used when measuring 4G LTE networks. A cellular phone or another LTE-equipped device would display signal strength in RSRP, measured 0dBm (best signal) to -110dBm (weakest/no signal). An RSRP of -95dBm would be a strong signal whereas -115dBm would be very weak. Many devices show RSSI for LTE connections along with RSRP, but RSRP is a better indicator of signal strength.
RSRQ is Reference Signal Received Quality. This again only applies to 4G LTE networks and is a measure of the signal quality of a cellular connection. RSRQ is typically displayed in a range from 0dB (highest quality) to -20dB (lowest quality). Typically better signal quality results in a more reliable connection.
Say you’ll be installing a Pepwave MAX BR1 for cellular backup in your home or business. To get the best performance out of the cellular connection, you will want to check its RSRP and RSRQ. If you have a weak RSRP of -105dBm and an RSRQ of -18dB, the resulting cellular network may be slow or unreliable. To improve the signal you could try to relocate the router closer to a window, or an external cellular antenna may be needed if the cellular signal is blocked or there is a metal roof on the building, for example.
Here is a quick breakdown of the numbers:
RSSI – For 3G frequencies. -70dBm is excellent, -110dBm is poor or no signal
RSRP – For LTE frequencies. -90dBm is excellent, -120dBm is poor or no signal
RSRQ – For LTE frequencies. 0dB is no interference, -20dB is high interference
Installing or troubleshooting any cellular equipment should always include checking cellular signal strength and signal quality, and improving signal strength and quality often results in a more reliable, consistent connection.
Finding and Interpreting RSSI, RSRP, and RSRQ
For cellular signal boosters and amplifiers, signal information is often visible on an on-device display showing the frequencies and the gain on each. Some amplifiers have companion mobile applications or web interfaces where signal information is available. Refer to the user manual for your specific amplifier for more detailed information.
Cellular-enabled routers typically have a web user interface where cellular signal details are displayed. While all manufacturers have different locations in their web interface for signal information, it is typically found in a ‘Details’ or ‘More Information’ tab.
In a cellular-enabled Peplink or Pepwave router, log into the web interface at 192.168.50.1. From the Dashboard page, click on ‘Details’ to the right of the cellular interface.
In the WAN Connection Status, you’ll find the connected Band along with relevant signal information.
In the above example the RSRP is -101dBm, and the RSRQ is -11.5dB. While the signal strength isn’t bad, the signal quality is low. Moving the router to another location may provide a better signal quality, since this router is installed in a lower floor of a home. If moving the router isn’t an option, an external antenna run outside to the roof would improve signal strength and quality.
For a cellular enabled Cradlepoint router, login to the web interface at 192.168.1.1 From the login page, select ‘Status’, ‘Internet’, ‘Connections’, and select the built in modem.
Signal information will be displayed below, along with other device information. The above example has an RSRP of -86dBm, and an RSRQ of -9dB. This is an excellent signal strength, and while not perfect, the signal quality is within acceptable levels but should be kept in mind if cellular performance is inconsistent.
Improving Signal Strength and Signal Quality
As mentioned above, there are a few ways to improve cellular signal to devices like embedded routers. Let’s use the Pepwave MAX BR1 MK2 as an example, as a device that is commonly used for home and businesses for cellular backup to a primary connection. The included stock antennas are adequate for installations where signal is moderate to good, but in weaker signal areas, or in areas where the install location has a blocked signal, an additional antenna may be required.
A popular antenna to pair with the MAX BR1 is the Panorama Outdoor Omni. This is omnidirectional, meaning it doesn’t need to be aimed directly at the cell tower, simplifying installation. Since the BR1 has two cellular antenna ports, the Panorama antenna also has two 16’ lengths of cable to connect directly to the router.
The antenna can then be wall or pole mounted on the side of a home or business, on a roof, or even on a mobile command center that requires cellular connectivity.
For deployments where a router is installed in a server rack, weatherproof case, or other enclosure where signal can be blocked, other antenna options are available. Vehicles are another source of interference for cellular signal, especially since cellular routers are often installed below the dashboard or hidden away from eyes, and signal.
The Panorama MAKO antenna is designed for vehicles, and supports up to 4×4 Cellular for Category 18 and 5G modems, WiFi, and GPS connectivity options.
5Gstore has also created a ‘Guide Me’ feature to help in the selection of an antenna for your deployment. Select the kind of connectivity you’ll need, and we’ll narrow it down to the best options for the job. Need additional assistance? Contact the experts at 5Gstore online by email or chat, or give us a call at 833-5Gstore (833-547-8673).
Verizon is planning to shut down its 3G network at the end of 2022, This will end the long lived support of the 3G hardware. Verizon has scheduled to end all the 3G network on December 31, 2022. This will be long after all the other cellular competitors has disabled 3G support. Verizon is hoping by setting a date to have this service disabled, everyone that is currently using the 3G service will be able to move over to a 4G or 5G service.
Verizon originally planned on removing the 3G service on December 31, 2019. Verizon delayed this period as they wanted to make sure the impacted customers would have time to make arrangements to stay connected.
Starlink is currently a beta internet service provider. Starlink service is expecting to see speeds from 50 mb/s to 150 mb/s and latency of 20 ms to 40 ms in most locations over the next several months. As Starlink Space X launches more satellite coverage areas, data speeds and latency will improve dramatically. One of the greatest percs of the starlnk service is truly an unlimited data, no data caps and no throttling.
Starlink is currently offering a complete install kit for $500 for select coverage areas. This kit includes Starlink automatically aiming dish, Wifi router, power supply for the dish, cables, and mounting tripod. Tripod is made for level ground install.
When installing the starlink dish you will need a clear view of the sky, with 25 degree range of buildings and objects. If any objects such as chimmey roof ridge, trees or branches block sky around the dish may block the path of the beam or the starlink.
Check to see if your area is available for the Starlink serviceLocation checker
Pepwave has added a cellular Wan Bandwidth throttling support with the new 8.1.1 firmware. This new feature will allow clients to throttle back cellular data for all devices that are accessing over a failed over the cellular WAN of the Pepwave or just limiting the cellular speeds to conserve cellular data. The speeds are able to be adjusted from kbps to Gbps.
Peplink is offering on the newest Firmware build 8.1.1 is ability to support wireless mesh network. This feature offers a true mesh between the main router and the access points that are attached.
You need one Peplink|Pepwave router that has 802.11ac or newer Wi-Fi integrated – or – you need one Peplink|Pepwave Access Point that supports mesh that is connected to the LAN via Ethernet. This is a wired mesh AP, it can allow other wireless mesh APs to join the network.
You need a second Peplink|Pepwave Access point that is 802.11ac or newer – this will wirelessly mesh to the first AP/Router.
You need a firmware that supports these features. That would be 8.1.1 8 (in beta now) for routers and 3.6.2/3.7.3/3.8.1 16 (in RC now) depending on your AP Wi-Fi Generation (3.6.X = 802.11ac 3.7.X=ac wave 2 3.8.X=802.11ax/Wi-Fi 6)
Your mesh AP will still need power. This is “wireless” but it is not magic. Power from a wire is still needed wherever you put this “wireless” mesh AP.
Follow link provided the steps to complete the Mesh setup
For years, artificial cactus have lined the sandy roadsides of North Scottsdale, Arizona, and Popular tours paradises have Cellular masked as Palm trees. They look real at first glance but tucked inside are antennas and cellular radio equipment that provide 4G LTE and know 5G antennas for wireless connectivity to these areas. Large concealment structures for the ultra-wideband do not offer the coverage as the 4G LTE cellular site has. Which in this case towers are about 24 feet tall cactus, have become so good it’s sometimes hard to tell the real cacti from the fakes.
