New ZBT WG1608 5G-ready router + GoldenOrb firmware

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Thu Aug 06, 2020 11:55 pm

OptimusPrime wrote: ↑Wed Aug 05, 2020 11:31 am Any particular reason you would favor this over the SIM8200EA-M2?

I've come to really like the Quectel modems. I have not used the SIM8200 myself, though I have buddies who have, the support and community use of it is very lacking at the moment. I don't know of many people using SIMCOM modems at all. That's not to say they aren't good modems and aren't being used all over the world, but in my limited circle its pretty non existent.

I don't technically have a "particular" reason though, no.

Post by **tambutso** » Sat Aug 08, 2020 8:53 am

OptimusPrime wrote: ↑Mon Aug 03, 2020 8:23 pm For some reason I am not able to send a PM. Please let me know if you supply the SIM8200.

Thanks.

There is support for it on ROOter. It will work. I am using one right one with ROOter. This is a CAT20 LTE modem as well as 5G.If it can't connect to a 5G signal, you have the CAT20 LTE function. Better because if you're on T-Mobile, this has Band 71. Some CAT20 modems do not. Yes I can get you the SIM8200, might be able to get the Quectel RM500Q as well.

Post by **OptimusPrime** » Sat Aug 08, 2020 10:53 am

tambutso wrote: ↑Sat Aug 08, 2020 8:53 am There is support for it on ROOter. It will work. I am using one right one with ROOter. This is a CAT20 LTE modem as well as 5G.If it can't connect to a 5G signal, you have the CAT20 LTE function. Better because if you're on T-Mobile, this has Band 71. Some CAT20 modems do not. Yes I can get you the SIM8200, might be able to get the Quectel RM500Q as well.

OK, let me know if you're buying in bulk and offering comparable pricing to US residents. Thx.

Post by **tambutso** » Mon Aug 10, 2020 1:12 am

OptimusPrime wrote: ↑Sat Aug 08, 2020 10:53 am OK, let me know if you're buying in bulk and offering comparable pricing to US residents. Thx.

Hi. do you happen to be a member of the Wireless Joint FB group as well?I need a way to communicate privately with you. You can reach me here: https://www.messenger.com/t/rcpaccialjr Send me a PM at your convenience. Thanks.

Post by **OptimusPrime** » Tue Aug 18, 2020 5:10 pm

BillA wrote: ↑Tue May 05, 2020 1:29 pm Make sure to get a modem which covers all the 5G US bands.

ATT 5G bands
n5, n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz)
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

TMO 5G bands
n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz, not to be confused with the 4G-LTE band 71, since n71 is a much faster 5G band)
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

VZW 5G bands
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

Quectel RM500Q-GL modem (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the US ATT and Tmobile bands, but does NOT have the Verizon bands.
4G-LTE Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 66, 71
5G Bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n28, n38, n40, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79

For this modem, RM500Q-GL- I don't believe these 5G bands are correct. The -GL is a gimped version for the non-US market and only have four 5GNR bands.

RM500Q-GL:
5G: N41, N77, N78, N79

Screenshot from 2020-08-18 18-04-24.png

Post by **BillA** » Thu Aug 20, 2020 2:36 am

OptimusPrime wrote: ↑Tue Aug 18, 2020 5:10 pm For this modem, RM500Q-GL- I don't believe these 5G bands are correct. The -GL is a gimped version for the non-US market and only have four 5GNR bands.

RM500Q-GL:
5G: N41, N77, N78, N79

Screenshot from 2020-08-18 18-04-24.png

You might be right, buyers should check the specs carefully before plucking down several hundred dollars for a 5G modem. I've seen quite a few overseas sellers mislabel the model's suffix, including mixing up band specs among various versions, so due diligence is highly recommend. I believe that there only one RM500Q hardware made, and the "AE/GL" versions are just flashed with different regional firmware.

While unrelated to this reply, there seems to be some confusion out there about the sub-6GHz and mmWave bands, so here some info about it.

Make sure to get the right modem which covers your carrier's bands.

ATT 5G bands:
n5, n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz, not the same as the 4G-LTE band B71)
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

Tmobile 5G bands:
n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz, not the same as the 4G-LTE band B71)
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

Sprint 5G bands (now part of Tmobile)
n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz, not the same as the 4G-LTE band B71)
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

Verizon 5G bands:
N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz)

5G bands prefixed with the lower case letter "n" are called "sub-6GHz", which are the lower frequency 5G bands on ATT and Tmobile, but not Verizon.

5G bands prefixed with the upper case letter "N" are called "mmWave", which are the higher frequency 5G bands on ATT, Tmobile, and Verizon.

ATT and Tmobile will work on both sub-6GHz AND mmWave bands, but Verizon will only work on mmWave bands.
Sub-6GHz bands as its name suggests (below 6GHz) runs on lower frequencies, therefore they can travel farther and penetrate buildings easier than the higher frequency mmWave bands (above 6GHz). Also, mmWave modems are more expensive, and difficult to install due an additional 4 more antennas for a total of 8.

Post by **OptimusPrime** » Thu Aug 20, 2020 8:15 am

BillA wrote: ↑Thu Aug 20, 2020 2:36 am You could be right, buyers should check the specs carefully before plucking down several hundred dollars for a 5G modem. I've seen quite a few overseas sellers mislabeling the model suffix , so due diligence is highly recommend.

There is a -AE version with all the 5G bands with North America the intended market. Yes, if you're not careful, you'll spend a lot for something you weren't expecting. The SIM8200EA also seems to advertise with some 5G bands which have not been able to work in the US.

Post by **mattvds** » Thu Aug 20, 2020 7:42 pm

Any details about speeds on 5G with this setup?

Also, has anyone been able to get N41 with a caylx (sprint) sim? I'm waiting on a new T-Mo sim to test for 5g connectivity, but all of their plans seem to throttle streaming, so getting it from the Sprint side would be ideal.

Post by **nemisis633** » Fri Aug 21, 2020 2:01 pm

Has anyone had any success with actually getting an RM500 to aggregate? I've tried with 3 different carriers and can't get it to show me any love, plenty of signal to go around.

Post by **eist1** » Fri Sep 04, 2020 2:59 am

@dairyman

I got 2.4GHz and 5GHz working on the WG1608/WG3526 running the OpenWRT 19.07 Snapshot with the help of LGA1150 on the OpenWRT forum. I installed the snapshot over the top of the WG1608-GO2020-06-14 firmware, but that wiped out the Modem section in the GUI. What was needed was to use the WG3526 (16M) Snapshot so kmod-mt7615e and kmod-mt7663-firmware-ap was available in the packages, as they are not available in the Stable 19.07 release. I have attached the WG1608/WG3526 OpenWRT firmware image with 2.4GHz/5GHz working and also I'll attach the needed files. I hope this may help getting the WG1608 working fully with both modem support and 2.4GHz/5GHz WiFi.

2.4GHz/5GHz Firmware Image: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13VeMss ... sp=sharing

OpenWRT 19.07 WG3526 Snapshot: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13NIFSX ... sp=sharing

kmod-mt7615e: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PfYIXD ... sp=sharing

kmod-mt7663-firmware-ap: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GBa8rn ... sp=sharing

Post by **farberm** » Thu Sep 10, 2020 6:05 pm

Eist1:

Did you ever get the modem menu back up and running?

Post by **leopardus2** » Fri Sep 11, 2020 2:12 am

@optimusprime does your manual report the LTE CA combinations of RM500Q-GL? I can't find them anywhere.

Thanks
RIck

Post by **machy** » Fri Sep 11, 2020 12:52 pm

@eist1 - any chance you can spell out what you did to make a WG1608 work? Is the 2.4Ghz / 5Ghz firmware installed first, then openWRT 19.07 snapshot, and then the kmods? Thanks!

Post by **ChrisTork** » Fri Sep 11, 2020 5:09 pm

eist1 wrote: ↑Fri Sep 04, 2020 2:59 am @dairyman

I got 2.4GHz and 5GHz working on the WG1608/WG3526 running the OpenWRT 19.07 Snapshot with the help of LGA1150 on the OpenWRT forum. I installed the snapshot over the top of the WG1608-GO2020-06-14 firmware, but that wiped out the Modem section in the GUI. What was needed was to use the WG3526 (16M) Snapshot so kmod-mt7615e and kmod-mt7663-firmware-ap was available in the packages, as they are not available in the Stable 19.07 release. I have attached the WG1608/WG3526 OpenWRT firmware image with 2.4GHz/5GHz working and also I'll attach the needed files. I hope this may help getting the WG1608 working fully with both modem support and 2.4GHz/5GHz WiFi.

2.4GHz/5GHz Firmware Image: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13VeMss ... sp=sharing

OpenWRT 19.07 WG3526 Snapshot: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13NIFSX ... sp=sharing

kmod-mt7615e: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PfYIXD ... sp=sharing

kmod-mt7663-firmware-ap: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GBa8rn ... sp=sharing

Can you explain how you setup the make file with these files? Did you just copy the last two files to the build directories and told the make menuconfig to install them?

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Fri Sep 11, 2020 5:18 pm

I've not found the CA combo command yet. It may not exist for this series. The EM160 has a similar command set as the RM5xx models

AT+QCRSRP does show CA info though I think.

Post by **paint** » Tue Sep 15, 2020 9:28 am

Here is some additional information on the RM500Q-GL and -AE variants.

Post by **lod411** » Tue Sep 15, 2020 1:57 pm

eist1 wrote: ↑Fri Sep 04, 2020 2:59 am @dairyman

I got 2.4GHz and 5GHz working on the WG1608/WG3526 running the OpenWRT 19.07 Snapshot with the help of LGA1150 on the OpenWRT forum. I installed the snapshot over the top of the WG1608-GO2020-06-14 firmware, but that wiped out the Modem section in the GUI. What was needed was to use the WG3526 (16M) Snapshot so kmod-mt7615e and kmod-mt7663-firmware-ap was available in the packages, as they are not available in the Stable 19.07 release. I have attached the WG1608/WG3526 OpenWRT firmware image with 2.4GHz/5GHz working and also I'll attach the needed files. I hope this may help getting the WG1608 working fully with both modem support and 2.4GHz/5GHz WiFi.

2.4GHz/5GHz Firmware Image: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13VeMss ... sp=sharing

OpenWRT 19.07 WG3526 Snapshot: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13NIFSX ... sp=sharing

kmod-mt7615e: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PfYIXD ... sp=sharing

kmod-mt7663-firmware-ap: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GBa8rn ... sp=sharing

i had the same problem with the modem section missing on my wg1608 with EM12-G and couldn't get the lte modem to connect. i like having that modem section. it makes it a lot easier to troubleshoot modem problems.

i would be nice if someone could make a Goldenorb firmware with those two kmod modules added, because the 2.4ghz and 5ghz wifi work great.

Post by **Infector944** » Wed Sep 16, 2020 10:06 pm

I don't know if it's in poor taste to bump an older thread on this forums, so please forgive me.

I just received a WG1608v2, it's flashed the with golden orb: "openwrt-WG1608-GO2020-06-14-upgrade.bat" there are some glitches with the Firmware, but so far it's functional and I can bridge a WiFi hot spot to get online through an Ethernet device,

I've got a Quectel EP06-a modem in route.

I was under the impression that the WG1608 had both mPCI-e and M.2 slots, however there is no header for the mPCI-e installed (only solder pads), the M.2 looks like Socket B-Key edge connector.

What adapter should I be looking for to install my EP06-a into an M.2 Socket B-Key on the WG1608.

I've got a ton of questions about this whole process, so I probably will start a new thread tomorrow.

Thanks for the help!

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Thu Sep 17, 2020 12:44 pm

Infector944 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 16, 2020 10:06 pm I don't know if it's in poor taste to bump an older thread on this forums, so please forgive me.

Your good, but in general if its not directly related to the OP topics intent, then start a new thread.

Infector944 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 16, 2020 10:06 pm I just received a WG1608v2, it's flashed the with golden orb: "openwrt-WG1608-GO2020-06-14-upgrade.bat" there are some glitches with the Firmware, but so far it's functional and I can bridge a WiFi hot spot to get online through an Ethernet device,

I use the 6/10 version. Though it has issues enabling 5Ghz wifi. Ive not tried 6/16 (I think that is the latest). 6/14 I have heard had issues.

Are you saying the LAN isnt working for you?

Infector944 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 16, 2020 10:06 pm I've got a Quectel EP06-a modem in route.

I was under the impression that the WG1608 had both mPCI-e and M.2 slots, however there is no header for the mPCI-e installed (only solder pads), the M.2 looks like Socket B-Key edge connector.

Why such a low modem for the 4x4 mimo ready router? Saving money? The original version with both slots is cool as heck. They are now only selling the WG1608 in 2 seperate versions. The WG1608-5G and WG1608-M or something. One has the M.2 slot only, the other mpcie only. They made them dual slot as a tester for early samplers. Sucks.

Infector944 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 16, 2020 10:06 pm
What adapter should I be looking for to install my EP06-a into an M.2 Socket B-Key on the WG1608.

thewirelesshaven.com has you covered. They open up tomorrow afternoon.

Look for the mini pcie to m.2 adapter board with top sim slot.

Infector944 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 16, 2020 10:06 pm I've got a ton of questions about this whole process, so I probably will start a new thread tomorrow.

Thanks for the help!

Welcome, you bet

Post by **leopardus2** » Fri Sep 18, 2020 12:28 pm

So I got my WG1608 with a Quectel RM-500Q and flashed it with Goldenorb WG1608-GO2020-06-14.
The modem is correctly recognized, with IMEI and all, and so the SIM card, however the modem wouldn't connect and/or display any information about provider (Provider entry was just saying "Connecting..." . I tested the modem via AT-commands and it was correctly connected to my provider in
LTE mode. But Goldenorb was unable to detect it.

I know this should be supported, correct?

Anyway, now I have a bigger problem - after reading this thread I tried to downgrade to WG1608-GO2020-06-10
and now it does not boot anymore

Any suggestion to recover it?

TIA
Rick

Post by **leopardus2** » Fri Sep 18, 2020 12:56 pm

OK, recovered thanks to the chinese bootloader that appears at port 80 when you power up with reset button pressed.
Phew.

Post by **shunryu999** » Fri Sep 18, 2020 1:58 pm

Any luck with this? I've also got WG1608 and can't get it to connect to EM7565 with either WG1608-GO2020-06-10 or 06-14

Post by **Infector944** » Fri Sep 18, 2020 1:59 pm

Didneywhorl wrote: ↑Thu Sep 17, 2020 12:44 pm
Why such a low modem for the 4x4 mimo ready router? Saving money? The original version with both slots is cool as heck. They are now only selling the WG1608 in 2 seperate versions. The WG1608-5G and WG1608-M or something. One has the M.2 slot only, the other mpcie only. They made them dual slot as a tester for early samplers. Sucks.

thewirelesshaven.com has you covered. They open up tomorrow afternoon.

Look for the mini pcie to m.2 adapter board with top sim slot.

Welcome, you bet

It seems the The Wireless Haven store does not have mPCI-e modem to M2 slot adaptors (just the other way around)

Yeah I'm trying to save money with a cat6 modem.

I'm thinking about buying a mPCI-e socket and soldering it to the pads on the board. Mouser has them for 5$
I used to hand solder surface mount so I'm not scared.

Post by **leopardus2** » Sun Sep 20, 2020 11:58 am

leopardus2 wrote: ↑Fri Sep 18, 2020 12:28 pm So I got my WG1608 with a Quectel RM-500Q and flashed it with Goldenorb WG1608-GO2020-06-14.
The modem is correctly recognized, with IMEI and all, and so the SIM card, however the modem wouldn't connect and/or display any information about provider (Provider entry was just saying "Connecting..." . I tested the modem via AT-commands and it was correctly connected to my provider in
LTE mode. But Goldenorb was unable to detect it.

I know this should be supported, correct?

Auto-quoting myself ... the 2020-06-14 firmware does not work with this Quectel module, but the 2020-06-10 works just fine.

Post by **leopardus2** » Sun Sep 20, 2020 3:53 pm

redapse wrote: ↑Mon Jul 06, 2020 10:29 am Thanks for the info guys - I already had the manual. I've looked through it pretty extensively to try to find an equivalent command to band lock. Have you guys been able to carrier aggregate with this modem? I have 100% signal strength, and another band available on my tower, yet carrier aggregation is never active (even when using a lot of bandwidth)

I've posted on the Quectel forum to see if they know how too...

I'm on the same boat. No CA (and my tower has 4CA).
Anyone succeeded in getting CA with the RM500Q?

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Sun Sep 20, 2020 5:28 pm

Infector944 wrote: ↑Fri Sep 18, 2020 1:59 pm I'm thinking about buying a mPCI-e socket and soldering it to the pads on the board. Mouser has them for 5$
I used to hand solder surface mount so I'm not scared.

I'm curious, though if it will work.

Post by **leopardus2** » Sun Sep 20, 2020 5:34 pm

Is the RM500Q-GL supported in MBIM mode? I have set the modem in MBIM but GoldenORB still fires a QMI connection (WG1608-GO2020-06-10)

Post by **leopardus2** » Mon Sep 21, 2020 1:53 am

leopardus2 wrote: ↑Sun Sep 20, 2020 5:34 pm Is the RM500Q-GL supported in MBIM mode? I have set the modem in MBIM but GoldenORB still fires a QMI connection (WG1608-GO2020-06-10)

Solved this as well
needed a modem reset (AT+CFUN=1,1 ) after changing usbnet to 2.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Mon Sep 21, 2020 8:44 am

leopardus2 wrote: ↑Mon Sep 21, 2020 1:53 am Solved this as well
needed a modem reset (AT+CFUN=1,1 ) after changing usbnet to 2.

Yeah. All Quectel modems need to be power cycled or run at+cfun=1,1 in order to change the protocol.

Post by **leopardus2** » Tue Sep 22, 2020 9:14 am

Guys, any way to have qmicli package installed on GoldenOrb 2020-06-10?
It looks like it's the only way to get CA info from RM500Q...

Post by **Infector944** » Wed Sep 23, 2020 10:35 pm

Didneywhorl wrote: ↑Sun Sep 20, 2020 5:28 pm I'm curious, though if it will work.

I got my m-PCI-e header in today. I went with an 8mm height one, from mouser.
Probably going to give it a try this weekend. I forgot to order 0.3mm solder so I need to source that, I'm not going to do this with 0.8mm solder.

As well as a USB -> mPCI-e adapter, Which I'm having no luck using. the EP06a is detected in my laptop as an EP06-a but the Golden Orb FW isn't shower anything under the modem tab when it's plugged into the USB port.

are there any settings that need to take place to use the USB adapter?
Honestly I'm finding the GO FW to be very clunky with a lot of re clocks and power cycles necessary to navigate to pages.

Anyone else running the openwrt-WG1608-GO2020-06-14-upgrade.bin version?

Post by **mkn001** » Thu Sep 24, 2020 2:41 pm

I was able to get the WG1608 working with Quectel RM500Q-GL (via T-Mobile) via Goldenorb WG1608-GO2020-06-10. However no 5ghz WiFi.

Post by **lod411** » Thu Sep 24, 2020 8:21 pm

@ALL

Does anyone have a working version of Goldenorb that has 2.4ghz and 5ghz wifi working for the WG1608 router?

Post by **leopardus2** » Fri Sep 25, 2020 8:25 am

leopardus2 wrote: ↑Tue Sep 22, 2020 9:14 am Guys, any way to have qmicli package installed on GoldenOrb 2020-06-10?
It looks like it's the only way to get CA info from RM500Q...

I have built this myself directly on the 1608.
Thanks to qmicli I have seen that the RM500Q is correctly aggregating (3CA for now) but the AT+QCAINFO is broken
and does not return anything.

I wonder, why couldn't rooter use qmicli to get its info instead of the modem AT interface?
It looks like there is much more info available there.

Post by **averrslowly** » Tue Sep 29, 2020 5:53 pm

ChrisTork wrote: ↑Fri Sep 11, 2020 5:09 pm Can you explain how you setup the make file with these files? Did you just copy the last two files to the build directories and told the make menuconfig to install them?

eist1 seems to have just made that one post and disappeared. From my reading of their post, they didn't actually use the kmod files. They just outlined what they thought needed to be done to retain the modem GUI. Did you try to compose a new snapshot with the kmod files?

I ask because I've just ordered a WG1608 ($87 incl. shipping) from ZBT.

Post by **critical98** » Sat Oct 03, 2020 5:44 am

I just received mine. Quick question, I want to use my EM20-G in this router for now. Although there is a hole in the circuit board for a standoff/spacer at the 42mm mark, the welded(?) standoff/spacer is at 52mm. I was thinking of buying a M2x6mm threaded spacer at Mouser (Wurth Elektronik 970060244) and mounting it that way. Is that the correct size? Also, is there a better/different way to make this work?

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Sat Oct 03, 2020 1:04 pm

It should have come with a little screw and two ferrules that are supposed to work for that. ZBT's kind of cheap like that. A standoff nylon should work pretty well I believe 6 mm length M2 is about right You may need to drill out the hole a little larger.

Post by **critical98** » Sun Oct 04, 2020 12:37 am

Didneywhorl wrote: ↑Sat Oct 03, 2020 1:04 pm It should have come with a little screw and two ferrules that are supposed to work for that. ZBT's kind of cheap like that. A standoff nylon should work pretty well I believe 6 mm length M2 is about right You may need to drill out the hole a little larger.

I see it now. So my assumption is the ferrule with the thinner wall sits between the modem and top of the circuit board (acting as a spacer of sorts). The thick ferrule then sits below the circuit board and receives the long screw. Is that right? I only ask because the the top of the board ferrule is only 5mm long (so it seems its about 1mm too short) and the bottom one is 6mm (which is a few mm too long for the circuit board to sit correct on the rest of the standoffs). I'll need to modify them a bit to make this work. I figured I would ask twice before cutting. Thanks

Post by **leopardus2** » Sun Oct 04, 2020 2:52 pm

Guys. I am experiencing an issue with the setup discussed in this topic. It looks to me there is some limitation that makes this setup not 5G capable due to throughput issues. Please see my post here: https://wirelessjoint.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=1890 thanks.

Post by **datasmasher** » Sat Oct 10, 2020 4:00 pm

If anyone else is experimenting with the SIM8200EA, I am interested in your experience. I just put one in a WG1608 and am waiting to see if I can get it to register on T-Mobiles network. I gave them a call and had them register the IMEI, but so far, no joy.

Post by **toddw** » Thu Oct 15, 2020 12:19 pm

datasmasher wrote: ↑Sat Oct 10, 2020 4:00 pm If anyone else is experimenting with the SIM8200EA, I am interested in your experience. I just put one in a WG1608 and am waiting to see if I can get it to register on T-Mobiles network. I gave them a call and had them register the IMEI, but so far, no joy.

Thanks for posting this. I have a 1608 and was eyeballing this modem for T-mobile.

Post by **datasmasher** » Thu Oct 15, 2020 2:57 pm

With help from jheld and other folks over at the rooter forum, I was able to get the 8200EA to work. The bulk of the praise goes to jheld. If you want to see how take a look at these two topics on the forum:

https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/thread/ ... 718#r14346
and
https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/thread/ ... 718#r14351

I don't use the wifi on the router, so I haven't touched it. The modifications work for the most part with the only exception, thus far being the inability to see SMS messages.

Post by **Trg733** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 12:42 am

Hi all,

Can anyone share solution for Rural inter solution?

My knowledge is limited.

Thanks in advance

Trg733

Post by **gilbreen** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 4:17 pm

I downloaded and installed the image named below on a WG1608 router:

WG1608-GO2020-06-10.zip

from the site - https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/

It is prompting me for a password for the root account on the initial page, but I don't know what it is. I have tried 'rooter2017', 'Rooter2017', 'admin', 'password', 'root' and left it blank but nothing is working.

Once I am able to log in, do I need to install or configure anything additional to have it work with a Quectel RM-500Q-GL?

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 12:27 pm

gilbreen wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 4:17 pm I downloaded and installed the image named below on a WG1608 router:

WG1608-GO2020-06-10.zip

from the site - https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/

It is prompting me for a password for the root account on the initial page, but I don't know what it is. I have tried 'rooter2017', 'Rooter2017', 'admin', 'password', 'root' and left it blank but nothing is working.

Once I am able to log in, do I need to install or configure anything additional to have it work with a Quectel RM-500Q-GL?

That's super odd. I would flash it again via firmware recovery. It shouldn't ask for a password on a fresh install. Just click login with it blank.

The RM500 and all 5G modems is kind of pioneer days right now. The modem will work, but getting it to work with your data plan depends on the detials of the plan. You may need to change to MBIM or QMI or ECM modes, etc etc.

Post by **Infector944** » Sun Oct 25, 2020 11:43 pm

I had that same password glitch too.

Reflashed with the the FW recovery and was able to create a new PW and now it works pretty well.

Post by **machy** » Fri Oct 30, 2020 11:05 am

Anyone have luck getting the SMS messaging to work? Or alternatively, has anyone tried flashing this with the generic OpenWRT 19.0.7?

YouTube · Post by **ratledge** » Sat Nov 14, 2020 11:01 pm

averrslowly wrote: ↑Tue Sep 29, 2020 5:53 pm ...

I ask because I've just ordered a WG1608 ($87 incl. shipping) from ZBT.

I just did the same Friday and they offered to flash it with OpenWRT for me. I think that I paid $83 and change with shipping?

I already had a Quectel EM12-G on the way to replace my EP06A in the WG3526 but I will probably sell that one.

The 1WG608 looks like a better router overall, most everything being equal. I think that the 3526 might be a little quicker and has twice the RAM (DDR3 instead of DDR2?).

Post by **BillA** » Mon Nov 16, 2020 10:44 am

ratledge wrote: ↑Sat Nov 14, 2020 11:01 pm I just did the same Friday and they offered to flash it with OpenWRT for me. I think that I paid $83 and change with shipping?

I already had a Quectel EM12-G on the way to replace my EP06A in the WG3526 but I will probably sell that one.

The 1WG608 looks like a better router overall, most everything being equal. I think that the 3526 might be a little quicker and has twice the RAM (DDR3 instead of DDR2?).

The WG3526 and WG1608 routers are available in two different Flash/RAM sizes.

1 . 16MB Flash /256MB DDR2 RAM - which can flash the standard firmware up to 16MB, and will run a bit slower on the 256MB DDR2 RAM.

2. 32MB Flash / 512MB DDr3 RAM - which can flash the standard firmware up to 32MB, plus allows you to flash/load additional apps/modules later on (for example additional modem support, VPN's, etc), and will run a bit faster on the larger 512MB DDR3 RAM.

The cost difference between the two memory versions is about $10, which is well worth it for those who need the extra flash and RAM. I prefer the larger Flash/RAM version, but not everyone needs it.

The WG1608 regardless of the Flash/RAM size, is also available in two different modem slot versions.

1. WG1608-v2 (single modem slot) comes with only a single M.2 modem slot which works with most newer 4G-LTE/5G modems using an M.2 connector, but will not work with mPCIe modems.

2. WG1608-DM (Dual Modem slots) comes with both an M.2 modem slot which works with most newer 4G-LTE/5G modems using an M.2 connector, and also an mPCIe modem slot which works with some older 4G-LTE modems using an mPCIe connector. BUT, you can only use one modem at a time (M.2 or mPCIe), due to design restrictions it will not fit two modems at the same time.

The cost difference between the two slot versions is about $10, which is well worth it for those who need the extra mPCIe modem slot. Now that's a cheap slut ... errr... I mean slot. lol

Post by **jsmithson** » Thu Nov 19, 2020 10:54 pm

Received my WG1608 today with a Sierra 7411.
Could not get it to work with GoldenOrb 06-10 Firmware.
Could not get it to properly use wifi using GoldenOrb 06-14 Firmware.
Works perfectly using the recently uploaded GoldenOrb 11-17 Firmware...

Thanks to lurking in the forums for a couple of weeks, the most difficult part was getting my SIM to seat properly...

My testing environment is giving me 40 down and 5 up, using bands 2 and 71 (T-mobile post-pay).
My iPhone 12 gets 80 down and 40 up at the same location (5g)

Going to deploy at a cabin in the woods... far from 5g. Looking to beat unreliable DSL that is sporadically 4 down and 1 up.

Wanted to give thanks to whomever posted the 11-17 Firmware for the WG1608. It saved me tons of time... If you get a 7411 module go to that firmware first.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Fri Nov 20, 2020 9:28 am

I was wondering if the new firmware helped with some module errors Ive been having

Post by **bcd1975** » Fri Nov 20, 2020 11:59 am

I flashed the 11-17 firmware early this morning. I have the rm500q card and So far it’s working great with no problems. Actually seems to run a lot better.

Post by **jsmithson** » Fri Nov 20, 2020 1:19 pm

It's also a lot snappier.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Sat Nov 21, 2020 9:03 am

It is pretty good. But It still doesn't like the EM160 module for some reason.

Post by **Viper67857** » Fri Nov 27, 2020 10:25 am

You guys get ipv6 on the 11/17? Mine wouldn't automatically add the wan1_6 interface like the 06/10 version does. Adding it manually would result in the interface grabbing an ipv6 address, but it wouldn't pass through to my other devices. Also, a reboot after adding another interface to wwan0 results in wan1 failing over to another physical interface and therefore no internet at all. I had to fall back to 06/10 to keep ipv6 working.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Fri Nov 27, 2020 10:41 am

Interesting. I need to start learning ipv6 basics

Post by **autovet** » Sun Nov 29, 2020 3:28 pm

jhend wrote: ↑Thu Jun 11, 2020 1:41 am There's a newer version with improved Fibocom FM150 support available for testing:

http://ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/WG1608-GO2020-06-10.zip

I downloaded this and it worked for about 5 minutes till I changed the mode. Now I can't get it to work at all with either modem RM-500Q-GL or Fibrocom FM-150-NA. It shows the modem model number but gets stuck in the command line somehow. It looks like it never identifies the modem because I don't see the model or bands scroll trough the command lines. I have reset and reloaded the firmware many times.

Post by **autovet** » Sun Nov 29, 2020 3:28 pm

I can get version 6-10 to work on 3G.

YouTube · Post by **ratledge** » Sun Nov 29, 2020 4:45 pm

Has anyone messed with the newly posted WG1608 "GO" dated 11/23/2020 hanging out in the /uploads folder? I have a new 1608 v2 router coming Tuesday, maybe tomorrow if the plane from Hong Kong gets here on time instead of 8-10 hours late like the past few days. I will install my Quectel EM12-G in the M.2 interface and load this firmware and give it a whirl.

I am guessing that it actually fixes the problems associated with prior builds and incorporates the kludge that requires you to load four separate files in order to get both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz wireless radios working on the WG1608?

Any words of wisdom would be appreciated. As usual, the file is posted but has zero notes and I can't find any docs anywhere in the forums.

Post by **Viper67857** » Sun Nov 29, 2020 4:51 pm

They've been updating the goldenorb builds to the latest 19.xx OpenWrt versions. Personally, the 11/16 wg1608 build wouldn't play nice with ipv6 for me, but I haven't tried 11/23 as the old 06/10 works just fine.

YouTube · Post by **ratledge** » Sun Nov 29, 2020 5:44 pm

What I found was that not only have all of my recent gotcha type issues went away, my average down went from 23gbit to 42gb and up went from 4-5gbit to 8gbit or better!

New increased speed is nearly 65% or better. I flashed it on my WG3536 and everything is slick as owl sheet...

I don't really utilize IPv6 much, so I can't say anything WRT the operability or lack thereof reported elsewhere. The entire system is just snappier and feels like it has been well greased! This code is based on OpenWRT 19.07

I am impressed! I was having some random disconnects on my Android based HW (both Galaxy A20 & Chromebook) and that went away as well.

Color me happy!

BillA wrote: ↑Mon Nov 16, 2020 10:44 am The WG3526 and WG1608 routers are available in two different Flash/RAM sizes.

1 . 16MB Flash /256MB DDR2 RAM - which can flash the standard firmware up to 16MB, and will run a bit slower on the 256MB DDR2 RAM.

2. 32MB Flash / 512MB DDr3 RAM - which can flash the standard firmware up to 32MB, plus allows you to flash/load additional apps/modules later on (for example additional modem support, VPN's, etc), and will run a bit faster on the larger 512MB DDR3 RAM.
...
The cost difference between the two memory versions is about $10, which is well worth it for those who need the extra flash and RAM. I prefer the larger Flash/RAM version, but not everyone needs it.

I am a reseller, and AFAIK the old dual interface version is no longer being made, but I know that there are certain outlets that foresaw the need for both versions and stocked up on the original one.

I tried to order some "dual modem / interface" version and they are not available from Shenzhen Zhibotong themselves even just as a board-level (PCBA) version. I have found a few suppliers in China that do still have them, but most want an arm and a leg for them which makes no sense, especially since you can take a WG3526 and put a mPCIe -> M.2 adapter board the size of two commemorative stamps in it for $5 and use an M.2 based form-factor modem.

I am also fairly certain that both editions now come with 256M of RAM regardless of which flavor? Maybe the 3526 is available with 512M but I don't think that the 1608 is or was. I'm also certain that if you want MOQ 1000 piece, you can get them customized to suit your needs, so surely that would be one of the options. Mine all have SATA3 connectors, but I know that many sellers specify without that option to save a few bucks.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Mon Nov 30, 2020 8:17 pm

https://thewirelesshaven.com/shop/routers/lte-rou ... 8ghz-wifi/

Both ports in the thewirelesshaven.com ones. Plenty in stock.

Post by **carlito** » Wed Dec 02, 2020 1:43 am

I was wondering if anybody had a luck to connect with VERIZON using RM-500Q-GL? So far I got it working with t-mobile and ATT using latest firmware, but no go with VZW. Also if you can point me how to get both 2.4 and 5Ghz radios working at same time, I would greatly appreciate it.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Wed Dec 02, 2020 12:26 pm

ratledge wrote: ↑Sun Nov 29, 2020 4:45 pm ...
I am guessing that it actually fixes the problems associated with prior builds and incorporates the kludge that requires you to load four separate files in order to get both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz wireless radios working on the WG1608?
...

Can you link to or explain how to get both radios working? (The kludge 4 files fix

)

Post by **Viper67857** » Fri Dec 04, 2020 8:32 am

There's apparently a 12/02 goldenorb up now... Anyone done any analysis on the differences? Changelogs sure would be nice, but with all the routers they're supporting I suppose that would be far too much to ask.

Post by **Didneywhorl** » Fri Dec 04, 2020 9:36 pm

Viper67857 wrote: ↑Fri Dec 04, 2020 8:32 am There's apparently a 12/02 goldenorb up now... Anyone done any analysis on the differences? Changelogs sure would be nice, but with all the routers they're supporting I suppose that would be far too much to ask.

I think it was just an attempt to get the 5Ghz Wifi working. The changelogs are via following the whirlpool forums where the devs converse about all things goldenorb/rooter.

https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/thread/ ... =-1#bottom

YouTube · Post by **ratledge** » Sat Dec 05, 2020 5:09 pm

Viper67857 wrote: ↑Fri Dec 04, 2020 8:32 am There's apparently a 12/02 goldenorb up now... Anyone done any analysis on the differences? Changelogs sure would be nice, but with all the routers they're supporting I suppose that would be far too much to ask.

Works perfectly for the WG3526 but still no 5Ghz radio for WG1608 - so, far. I have both.

Post by **BillA** » Mon Dec 07, 2020 10:51 pm

I would flash the latest WG1608-GO2020-12-02.zip via the bootloader method (https://wirelessjoint.com/viewtopic.php?p=6007#p6007) and do a full factory reset right after (System > Backup / Flash Firmware > PERFORM RESET), then check if both WiFi bands work. It can be quite finicky, sometimes it takes a couple flashes back to back then a reset. You can always flash it back with an older firmware should you need to.

https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/W ... -12-02.zip

YouTube · Post by **ratledge** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 9:23 am

BillA wrote: ↑Mon Dec 07, 2020 10:51 pm I would flash the latest WG1608-GO2020-12-02.zip via the bootloader method (https://wirelessjoint.com/viewtopic.php?p=6007#p6007) and do a full factory reset right after (System > Backup / Flash Firmware > PERFORM RESET),
...

https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/W ... -12-02.zip

I grabbed the latest version - shown above - and was running it on the 2nd right after Dairyman posted it. He is still working on the 5Ghz (MT7663) radio support.

No amount of gyrations gets it going - yet... I did flash it from inside the factory (Chinese only) EEPROM routines.

Looks promising, someone came up with the code from Zhibotong ("ZBT"), so I am sure he is closer.

"Soon come" as we like to say.

Post by **punkguy00017** » Sat Dec 12, 2020 7:11 am

Im having an issue with my ZBT 1608 with an EM20-g. When I'm downloading after a few minutes of download, the router looses connection and resets . After it resets , it locks on to band 17. I have it locked to band 12 with ca on band 2 and 66. I never had this issue when I had it installed in a ZBT 3526 so I know the modem is fine. You think it's a firmware issue?

Post by **BillA** » Sat Dec 12, 2020 12:52 pm

punkguy00017 wrote: ↑Sat Dec 12, 2020 7:11 am Im having an issue with my ZBT 1608 with an EM20-g. When I'm downloading after a few minutes of download, the router looses connection and resets . After it resets , it locks on to band 17. I have it locked to band 12 with ca on band 2 and 66. I never had this issue when I had it installed in a ZBT 3526 so I know the modem is fine. You think it's a firmware issue?

Loosing connection may have something to with this the router's firmware which is still a bit experimental being a fairly new device, or it may be a lack of signal at your location. As far as band locking, it has nothing to do with the router, which is strictly a function of the modem. Also, you have no control over which bands are used for CA other than locking it to two or more bands (better yet leave it on auto-scan), thereafter it's strictly under the carrier's control.

Another possibility for the different CA behavior in different routers using the same modem, could be attributed to the different antenna/RF characteristics including the placement of the routers even by few inches off, which could cause variations in the received signal. I would take a look at the different signal strength/quality in the routers being tested.

It has been reported that setting the modem to ECM mode helps with random disconnects, but you're running the risk of locking yourself out from the modem (can be restored via SSH commands or reflashing the modem).
I would try QMI mode first, then MBIM, and finally ECM (just beware of this mode) by sending these AT-commands:

QMI mode

Code: Select all

AT+QCFG="usbnet",0

MBIM mode

Code: Select all

AT+QCFG="usbnet",2

ECM mode

Code: Select all

AT+QCFG="usbnet",1

Post by **punkguy00017** » Sat Dec 12, 2020 3:27 pm

Ok thank you. I guess I'll just keep waiting for new firmware to come out. Also thanks for the indepth info.

Post by **BillA** » Sun Dec 13, 2020 2:28 am

punkguy00017 wrote: ↑Sat Dec 12, 2020 3:27 pm Ok thank you. I guess I'll just keep waiting for new firmware to come out. Also thanks for the indepth info.

Another possibility for the different CA behavior in different routers using the same modem, could be attributed to the different antenna/RF characteristics including the placement of the routers even by few inches off, which could cause variations in the received signal. I would take a look at the different signal strength/quality in the router's Modem > Network Status. The devil is in the details ;D

Here's my speed test using a 5G Simcom SIM8200"EA"-M2 modem (NOT the SIM8200"G"-M2 model which doesn't work well on 5G due to missing some NSA bands) in a WG1608 router and Tmobile/SimpleMobile service. I ran this test at 3am in the morning with no congestion, about half a mile away from the tower in a line of sight with full signal strength. Note, the <1ms ping is incorrect (it's between 10-20ms), but the IP address is from Tmobile/SimpleMobile.
Bing Speed Test > https://www.bing.com/widget/t/speedtest
.

Post by **punkguy00017** » Sun Dec 13, 2020 5:59 am

Dang that's better than my speed averaging 30-35 mbps lol I'd be very satisfied with 1GB download speed.

YouTube · Post by **ratledge** » Sun Dec 13, 2020 7:10 am

punkguy00017 wrote: ↑Sat Dec 12, 2020 3:27 pm Ok thank you. I guess I'll just keep waiting for new firmware to come out. Also thanks for the indepth info.

There is one more possibility: do you have a good power supply?

If you are using the OEM 2amp one, then you need to upgrade to 2.5amp (12v = 30 watt) instead, because that specific modem sucks up a lot of power. Those EM20-G modems are all Engineering Samples, they never went to full production and Quectel moved to the EM160R-GL for CAT16 and EM120R-GL for CAT12, although the EM12-G is still available.