WE826 - Installing a MC7354 to use with GoldenOrb | ROOter

[JimHelms]

This is a tutorial for installing and configuring the Sierra Wireless MC7354 in the WE826 with GoldenOrb (aka, R00ter). It pertains ONLY to the MC7354 or MC7355.

As of this writing, the latest GoldenOrb (12-15-2017) by default, does not have the MC7354/MC7355 VID/PID included within its scripts. You will need to either add the id’s or swap out the files with the ones provided in the download link provided below.

Before altering or replacing any files, always make a backup copy of the original files--in the event something happens and/or you need them at a later time.

This tutorial requires a Windows based Laptop/PC and a USB to mini PCI-e adapter. It is recommended to follow the steps in the order presented.

Download the entire file contents from HERE and place in a file folder on desktop for convenience. The content contains:

• GenericDriverSetup_4773.exe

• MC7354_Genric_Firmware_005.025_002-field.exe

• Huawei_Modem_Terminal.exe (RAR)

• WinSCP-5.11.3-Setup.exe (RAR)

• we826-GO2017-12-15.zip (GoldenOrb Firmware)

• create_connect.sh

• initialize.sh

I. PREPARING THE MODEM

The steps to follow are normally not required. They are, however, recommended if the MC7354 has been previously used or configured for a different application or carrier. When this is the case, it is usually best to restore the modem to its OEM status, update the modem the latest Sierra Wireless Generic firmware, and configure the modem in MBIM mode. In order to update the firmware on the modem, a MiniPCI-E to USB adapter is required.

1. Using a Windows PC or Laptop, right click and Run as administrator the GenericDriverSetup_4773.exe

2. Install the MC7354 modem into a USB to Mini PCI-e adapter.

3. Plug the USB Adapter into PC.

4. If the MC7354 has been previously used or configured, it is best to restore the modem to its OEM setting. Otherwise, you may skip these next few steps.

5. Using the Huawei Terminal, access the WWAN Modem port on the MC7354, and run the following commands (copying and pasting one line at a time):

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at!entercnd="A710"
at!RMARESET=OEM
at!reset

6. If the modem is successfully restored to OEM, unplug the USB adapter and plug it back in.

7. Upgrade the MC7354 by executing the MC7354_Genric_Firmware_005.025_002-field.exe

8. After the firmware has confirmed as updated (the MC7354 takes a few minutes), unplug the modem and plug it back in.

9. Using the Huawei Terminal, access the WWAN Modem port on the MC7354 and confirm the generic firmware is now our preferred carrier firmware:

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at!entercnd="A710"
at!gobiimpref?

10. The above command should receive GENNA-UMTS as the preferred carrier. If not, re-flash the firmware. If so, precede with the commands below (only replacing YOUR APN between the quotation marks with the carrier APN you’ll be using):

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at!entercnd="A710"
at+cfun=1
at!selrat=06
at+cgdcont=1,"ipv4v6","YOUR APN"
at!UDUSBCOMP=7 
at!reset

11. Wait 2 seconds after the last at!reset command was sent, and immediately unplug the USB adapter with the modem. The MC7354 is programmed and ready.

12. A word of caution is appropriate here. Windows has an undesired (and occasional) habit of auto configuring a Sierra Wireless modem’s composition mode. Hence, the reasoning for immediately unplugging it after entering the last command. Try to avoid reinstalling the MC7354 behind the Windows machine.


II. INSTALLING THE MC7354 INSIDE THE WE826

A general tutorial covering the steps of installing a mini PCI-E modem can be found HERE.

1. Remove the four screws holding the two cases together and separate.

2. Install the modem, placing the while spacers between the modem and PCB, secure with the screws.

3. Carefully, snap on the U.FL pigtail connectors to the modem, and the SMA bulkhead connectors through the case.

4. Check to assure all SMA/RP-SMA connector nuts are adequately tight.

5. Re-assemble the WE826


III. PREPARING THE WE826-T ROUTER

These steps include flashing the firmware with GoldenOrb. A tutorial is available HERE.

1. Connect the power cable to the WE826

2. Connect Ethernet cable from WE826 LAN to the PC

3. From a web browser, log into the router at 192.168.1.1

4. The login user name and password in located on the bottom of the router.

5. Go to System > Backup / Flash Firmware > Flash new firmware image

6. Browse to the folder/location where the we826-GO2017-12-15.zip located and click on the firmware.

7. Make CERTAIN the Keep settings check mark is removed from the check box.

8. Flash the firmware.

9. When completed, and the WE826 comes back online, log into the WE826.

10. It is important to always Save and Apply after each configuration change in the settings. Otherwise, it will resort back to the previous setting.

11. Set the login Password at System > Administration > Router Password

12. Set the Local Timezone in System > System > System Properties > Timezone

13. Set Carrier APN at Modem > Connection Info > Modem 1 Information > APN > and type in the APN used by your carrier.

14. Set Connection Monitoring at Modem > Connection Monitoring > MONITOR WITH OPTIONAL RECONNECT >

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Enabled with Modem Reconnect
Tracking IP:  8.8.8.8
Save and Apply

15. Set WiFi Name, Password and Preferences at Network > Wireless > Wireless Overview > Edit


IV. REPLACING THE SH FILES REQUIRED FOR THE MC7354

Note: I have included instructions in the next post for those wishing to manually add the VID/PID's to the files.

1. Using WinSCP SSH into the WE826 to access the firmware files:

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File protocol: SCP
Host name: 192.168.1.1
Port number: 22
User Name: root
Password: admin (default or whatever password you changed the router to)

2. Navigate to /usr/lib/rooter/initialize.sh and replace the initialize.sh (by drag and dropping) with the one provided.

3. Right click the newly replaced initialize.sh and go to properties and make sure the Octal permission reads 0766. If not, place check marks in all three rolls (Owner, Group, Others) under the first two columns (R,W), and only the first roll (Owner) in the third column (X).

4. Navigate to /usr/lib/rooter/connect/create_connect.sh and replace the create_connect.sh with the one provided.

5. Repeat # 3 above on the create_connect.sh.

6. Close out WinSCP and unplug power to the WE826


V. READY TO CONNECT

1. Insert your activated SIM card into the SIM Card Adapter (if used), and install into the SIM slot on the router until it snaps/locks into place.

2. Power up the WE826 and give it a few minutes to connect.



VERY IMPORTANT: If a SIM card adapter is being used, it is important that all tabs/tits are removed from the SIM card (using an Emery board or sand paper) so that the SIM card fits properly and flat into the adapter--Not loose but not tight. Otherwise, you may experience connection issues caused by the SIM card binding and tilting slightly on one end, causing a misalignment and/or poor PIN connections.

[JimHelms]

For those who want to modify the ROOter files can do so with an appropriate text editor like Notepad++

Note that the below is based on the current files in the 12-15-2017 GoldenOrb/ROOter build for the WE826. Since the files are forever changing with improvements, the structure and code may differ slightly, and the MC7354/MC7355 VID/PID's may even be included.

Before altering or replacing any files, always make a backup copy of the original files--in the event something happens and/or you need them at a later time.

After the files are modified or replaced, check to assure the proper permissions are applied to the files as discussed above.

Open the create_connect.sh file at: /usr/lib/rooter/connect/create_connect.sh

Scroll down to around line #208 and find:

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#
# QMI modem comm port
#

Under the line about #232 showing:

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		if [ $idV = 1199 -a $idP = 9051 ]; then
			SIERRAID=1
		fi

ADD lines:

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		if [ $idV = 1199 -a $idP = 68c0 ]; then
			SIERRAID=1
		fi
		if [ $idV = 1199 -a $idP = 68A2 ]; then
			SIERRAID=1
		fi		

Scroll down to around line #503 and find:

Code: Select all

#
# MBIM connect script
#

Under the line about #519 showing:

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		if [ $idV = 1199 -a $idP = 9041 ]; then
			NETIFD=1
		fi

ADD lines:

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		if [ $idV = 1199 -a $idP = 68c0 ]; then
			NETIFD=1
		fi
		if [ $idV = 1199 -a $idP = 68A2 ]; then
			NETIFD=1
		fi

Save the changes made to the create_connect.sh file.



Now open the initialize.sh file at: /usr/lib/rooter/initialize.sh

Scroll down to about line #275 and locate:

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#
# Added modems to various drivers
#

Under the line about # 287 showing:

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echo "106c 3718" > /sys/bus/usb-serial/drivers/option1/new_id

ADD lines:

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echo "1199 68c0" > /sys/bus/usb-serial/drivers/option1/new_id
echo "1199 68c0" > /sys/bus/usb/drivers/qmi_wwan/new_id
echo "1199 68A2" > /sys/bus/usb-serial/drivers/option1/new_id
echo "1199 68A2" > /sys/bus/usb/drivers/qmi_wwan/new_id

Save the changes made to the initialize.sh file.

[johnny13oi]

Since you said this applies to the MC7355 as well, do I need to find different drivers and firmware for the MC7355 or can the MC7355 be crossflashed with the MC7354?

[JimHelms]

It would depend on which version of the MC7355 you have. If it is OEM MC7355 there should not be an issue with adding its PID/VID using the method outlined above.

I have never cross-flashed a MC7355 with MC7354 firmware, and not sure why you would require it.

Digging in my notes I found reference to three different versions of the MC7355:

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1101796-Dell DW5808
1101888-Panasonic
1101906-OEM

And, only one for the MC7345 though there may be more:

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1102016-OEM

Some of the different PIDs for the MC7355 are:

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9041
9054
9056
68A2
68B1
68C0

If it is the Dell DW5808 or Panasonic, there is the possibility that the VID and PID may need to be changed to work properly.

The OEM Dell DW5808 is normally locked in USBCOMP #9 which is MBIM with no AT ports which may trequire a little work to us: Its ID's:

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VID: 413C
PID: 81A8

The most common PID/VID combinations for the OEM MC7355 seems to be:

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VID:1199 PID:68C0  (Sierra Wireless MC7355)
VID:1199 PID:9041   (Sierra Wireless MC7355)

And, for its cousin, the EM7355:

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VID:1199 PID:68A2 Sierra Wireless EM7355

[JimHelms]

Quick temporary notes to add the MC7700 to the WE826-GO2018-08-07 build.

Note: The MC7700 needs have the firmware updated and then placed in COMP=7 (refer to above for instructions). There is a chance of changing the COMP=7 in GoldenOrb once the one the VID/PID is added using the AT Commands:

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at!entercnd="A710"
AT!UDUSBCOMP=7
AT!RESET

In the event you cannot connect to the MC7700 via GoldenOrb, the modem will have to be removed and programmed manually as outlined above. You will require a USB to mini PCI-e adapter to perform this task.

The VID/PID for the MC7700 is 1199:68a2

Open the create_connect.sh file at: /usr/lib/rooter/connect/create_connect.sh

At about line 242 you will see:

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		if [ $idV = 1199 ]; then
			case $idP in
				"9071"|"9079"|"9041"|"9051"|"68c0"|"9091" )
					SIERRAID=1
				;;
			esac
		fi

Add the PID: 68a2 like shown below:

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		if [ $idV = 1199 ]; then
			case $idP in
				"9071"|"9079"|"9041"|"9051"|"68c0"|"68a2"|"9091" )
					SIERRAID=1
				;;
			esac
		fi
		

At or about line 295, again add the 68a2 :

Code: Select all

		if [ $idV = 1199 ]; then
			case $idP in
				"9071"|"9079"|"9041"|"9051"|"68c0"|"68a2"|"9091" )
					NETIFD=1
				;;
			esac
		fi

Now open the initialize.sh file at: /usr/lib/rooter/initialize.sh

At or about line 239 add the following two lines:

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echo "1199 68a2" > /sys/bus/usb-serial/drivers/option1/new_id
echo "1199 68a2" > /sys/bus/usb/drivers/qmi_wwan/new_id

Reboot the router.

[EnriqueReyes]

In section II. INSTALLING THE MC7354 INSIDE THE WE826 #2

it says "Install the modem, placing the while (white) spacers between the modem and PCB, secure with the screws."

Where can I get some of these spacers and screws?

[JimHelms]

In ection II. INSTALLING THE MC7354 INSIDE THE WE826 #2

it says "Install the modem, placing the while (white) spacers between the modem and PCB, secure with the screws."

Where can I get some of these spacers and screws?

They are included with the WE826.

We do stock extras if you need them. Just send us a message from the contact form on the The Wireless Haven store when we open back up next week.

[terryjett]

1) Does this tutorial still apply to the current WE826-T2 and the MC7354?

Thinking of ordering WE826-T2 for testing and have a MC7354 just laying around. But this seems like a lot to just use the MC7354... Also have a MC7700 but lacking some local AT&t bands.

2) If this tutorial still applies to the WE826-T2 and the MC7354, could you recommend a good cheap USB to mini PCI-e adapter?

Thanks in advance for input.

[JimHelms]

1) Does this tutorial still apply to the current WE826-T2 and the MC7354?

Thinking of ordering WE826-T2 for testing and have a MC7354 just laying around. But this seems like a lot to just use the MC7354... Also have a MC7700 but lacking some local AT&t bands.

No, the PID/VID for the MC7354 and the MC7700 are included in the current versions of GolenOrb firmware.

2) If this tutorial still applies to the WE826-T2 and the MC7354, could you recommend a good cheap USB to mini PCI-e adapter?

We are out of them on the store but they are available off Amazon and eBay both.

[terryjett]

No, the PID/VID for the MC7354 and the MC7700 are included in the current versions of GolenOrb firmware.

Ok, thank you Jim for fast reply!

Had a peek on amazon for USB to mini PCI-e adapter the other day and got confused but will look again.

[JimHelms]

One other item that is generally not required is configuring the modem composition. They generally work out of the box.

[terryjett]

Sorry to make another post, but wish to make sure know what type of USB to mini PCI-e adapter needed (or might need later).

Is this one look right? https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-Express- ... 07FJXNLLT/

Never really messed with the cards before other than popping in and using. Time to learn:)

[JimHelms]

Yes, that one will work. And, it is always nice to have one laying around.

[terryjett]

Can this tutorial also be used with the EM7355 series? Seems most MC tutorials work with EM series.

Got a EM7355 DW5808e that not really concerned if kill it, got to learn with some hands-on training:)

[JimHelms]

If you change the PID/VID it will probably work without having to modify any files. Never tried one though....

[hw1353]

Jim,

It seems these scripts have changed a good bit since this was written. Is it possible to get a MC7354 to work with the latest version of WiFiX? This is a modem out of a cradlelink.

Or should I flash to the previous version of Golden Orb listed in this guide to get a MC7354 to work with a WE826?

I can get the router to detect the modem, and it does "connect" to LTE, but I don't have any ECIO values, and when trying to get them from the terminal, I get an error, "Only Available in WCDMA mode"