Refreshing a Router Build to Resolve Issues

[JimHelms]

There are times when a router and/or modem seems possessed with some unsolvable issue. Then, while pursuing a remedy--trying this and adjusting that--additional issues start presenting themselves.

We now have a device that is often difficult to troubleshoot. More times than not, it is quicker and easier to refresh the build.

DISCLAIMER: As will all tutorials, use at your own risk.

This tutorial assumes that some version of the WiFiX | GoldenOrb | OpenWRT firmware is installed on the router, and that a Sierra Wireless EM|MC7455 modem is being used. It also extends to the EM7565 CAT6 modem as long as the modem is running the latest Sierra Wireless firmware which allows the modem firmware to be restored to OEM status.

Before we get started, download a fresh firmware image of GoldenOrb and save to your desktop. Make sure it is the correct image for the model of router being used.

UPDATE 03-08-2019: Our latest WiFiX 2019 versions of GoldenOrb are now available. These versions include an internal ping script that runs in the background that resets/reboots the modem--which may be used in conjunction with the Connection Monitor. Refer to this TUTORIAL for more information on the internal ping script.

The standard versions of GoldenOrb GO2019 may also be used.

As always: when upgrading a router's firmware, be certain to UNCHECK the box to Save Settings.

Note: The newer kernel builds allow a Sierra Wireless modem to operate in QMI (and MBIM) mode, while the older kernel builds require the MBIM composition for Sierra Wireless modems. For those interested, see the attachment for a short history on the different types of protocols.

Mobile broadband modem control protocols.pdf

If a SIM Card is installed in the router, unplug its power and remove the SIM Card.

Our plan of attack, in order, is:

• Check that the U.FL|MHF4 connectors are properly seated

• Restore the modem to its OEM status, then

• Re-flash the router's firmware

Note: If the router cannot detect the modem to issue the AT-Commands, try flashing the router firmware first. Unplug power from the router, wait a few seconds, power back on and, give it a minute or two and then try to restore the modem to OEM status.

If the router still cannot detect the modem, then it may require removing the modem and installing in a USB adapter and flashing the modem firmware such as outlined in this TUTORIAL.


U.FL | MHF4 connectors coming loose from the modem's antenna is not unheard of. Before proceeding with the other steps below, it is important to MAKE CERTAIN:

• The U.FL | MHF4 connectors are properly seated on the modem’s MAIN and AUX antenna ports.

• The U.FL | MHF4 connectors are positioned in such a way that the metal portion of the U.FL connectors are not touching the top metal edge of the MC7455 modem.

• The U.FL | MHF4 connector is not touching the GPS modem connector port.

Main and Aux Ports.jpg

Correct the U.FL | MHF4 connectors as necessary.

Power up the router and login to the LuCI web user interface (192.168.1.1)

Next, we will RESTORE the MC7455 to its OEM status. This will erase all configurations and will return the modem to its original OEM state.

Go to MODEM > MISCELLANEOUS > AT-COMMAND TERMINAL and issue the following commands (one at a time, waiting for a reply before issuing the next):

AT-Command Terminal.png

Code: Select all

at!entercnd="A710"
AT!RMARESET=1
at!reset

Now that the modem is restored, re-flash the router with the fresh GoldenOrb firmware image.

IMPORTANT: The firmware upgrade should be done using an Ethernet cable from the LAN port on the router to the PC network card and NOT over WiFi.

Go to SYSTEM > BACKUP / FLASH FIRMWARE > FLASH NEW FIRMWARE IMAGE and BROWSE to the fresh GoldenOrb image.

IMPORTANT: Before flashing the firmware, MAKE CERTAIN the Keep Settings box is UNCHECKED.

Reflashing Firmware.png

DO NOT navigate away from the browser web page during the flashing process. Be patient and allow three to five minutes for the firmware upgrade to complete.

After the firmware flashing is complete, log back into the GoldenOrb user interface at 192.168.1.1

NOTE: It may be necessary to clear the browser cache if any issue is experienced with accessing the login screen. This can normally be done by placing your mouse pointer to the top of the web browser and hitting the CTRL and F5 keys at the same time.

The login user name is root and leave the password blank since no password is required on some builds of GoldenOrb. If it still insist on a password, try admin

NOTE: If the WiFi SSID is broadcasted as rooter the WiFi default password is rooter2017 or rooter2019. If the WiFiX is broadcasted as wifix use 12345678

Once logged into the router:

Go to MODEM > CONNECTION PROFILE > GENERAL > APN and:

• Type in the APN required for your carrier data plan

• Set the AUTHENTICATION PROTOCOL to NONE.

• SAVE & APPLY

Setting the APN.png

Go to SYSTEM > SYSTEM > GENERAL SETTINGS and Click on SYNC WITH BROWSER and set TIMEZONE to your timezone. SAVE & APPLY.

Sync and Update Time Zone.png

Go to SYSTEM > ADMINISTRATION > ROUTER PASSWORD and set your router login password. SAVE & APPLY.

Update Password.png

Depending on the type of plan the SIM Card is provisioned for (i.e., if it has limited hotspot data) it may be beneficial to use custom TTL settings.

Go to NETWORK > FIREWALL > CUSTOM TTL SETTINGS (at top of page) > SETTINGS and ENABLE. Set TTL VALUE to 65 (or 64). SAVE & APPLY.

Set Custom TTL Rules.png

NOTE: It appears TTL of 65 (because of the pre and post routing) work across the board of carriers. If the data usage is still appearing in the carrier’s account as hotspot data usage, try TTL 64. Most data only plans do not require use of the custom TTL rules.

Unplug power from the router.

Insert your SIM card into the router. Note, be sure the SIM card is fitting properly into the SIM Card adapter—not loose but not too tight. The tits/tabs on all 4 sides of the SIM card should be removed via emery board or sand paper.

Power up the router and login using your new password.

Give it a couple of minutes to configure and stabilize and you it should connect with internet service.

NOTE: You will find it useful (and informative) to watch the connection process in live-time at MODEM > DEBUG INFORMATION AT-COMMAND EXECUTION.

Modem Debug Information.png

Once an internet connection is established, and since the MC7455 was restored to OEM status, the modem will be operating in QMI composition.

Running a MC7455 (or other modem) in QMI mode has only been possible with the later OpenWRT kernel builds of GoldenOrb. Some users prefer QMI while others prefer operating the modem in MBIM.

The decision to use MBIM over QMI is often determined by whether your SIM Card and data plan is capable of obtaining an IPV6 address for the internet connection. QMI currently (or at least on this GoldenOrb version) does not handle IPV6—which MAY OR MAY NOT be available with any particular cellular data plan.

To place the MC7455 in MBIM mode, go to MODEM > MISCELLANEOUS > AT-COMMAND TERMINAL and run the following commands (one command at a time, waiting for a response before issuing the next):

Code: Select all

at!entercnd="A710"
at!usbcomp=1,1,1009
at!reset

NOTE: The first command “….A710” is the authorization, the second is for MBIM, and the third applies the commands and reboots the modem.

When changing a MC7455 to MBIM mode, I personally like manually programming most other commands (i.e., IPV4V6 APN, enabling IPV6, and locking to LTE service only). I will use AT&T’s broadband APN for this demonstration:

Code: Select all

at!entercnd="A710"
at!usbcomp=1,1,1009
at+cgdcont=1,"ipv4v6","broadband"
At!custom="IPV6ENABLE",1
at!selrat=06
at!reset

To return the MC7455 to QMI mode:

Code: Select all

at!entercnd="A710"
at!usbcomp=1,1,10D
at!reset

If you are using the EM7565 CAT12 modem, a slight modification is required. To place this modem in MBIM requires:

Code: Select all

at!entercnd="A710"
at!usbcomp=1,3,1009
at!reset

While returning the EM7565 back to QMI mode requires:

Code: Select all

at!entercnd="A710"
at!usbcomp=1,3,10D
at!reset

If these steps were followed, it is now a matter of process of elimination to pin point issues. If a problem still persist, the next step is to examine the strength and quality of the cellular signals at your router.

This is accomplished by running the command:

Code: Select all

AT!GSTATUS?

IF YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE WITH AN ISSUE, please submit a separate topic FULLY DETAILING the issue (and the steps you've taken) in the QUESTIONS and SUPPORT section.

[swwifty]

Great tutorial! Thanks for sharing Jim!