New ZBT WG1608 5G-ready router + GoldenOrb firmware

[BillA]

.
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Here's more info about the new ZBT WG1608 5G-ready router, and a list of 5G modems at the end of this post.

In a nutshell, it's a souped up WG3526, while running on the same MT7621 chip, it comes with a new 2G/5G WiFi chipset and other interesting upgrades.
It can work with both 4G-LTE and 5G modems (mPCIe or M.2 type), there's no need to drill extra holes for additional antennas to accomodate a 4x4MIMO modem.
Please note, that some sellers include some low end 5G modem which may not work on all US carriers, so make sure to check with the seller before the purchase.
It makes a great choice for someone who wants to go 5G with no fuss.


Here are the highlights:

1. It comes with both mPCIe and M.2 modem connectors to accommodate either form factor, however only one slot can be used at a time. While you cannot plug in two internal modems at the same time, it's possible to USB or WiFi tether a second external modem in an enclosure or even a phone for load balancing or channel bonding. Here's how to do it:
viewtopic.php?f=10&t=1172&p=7661#p7661

2. A new 2G/5G WiFi chipset (MT7906EN-2G and MT7613AEN-5G) for a more stable/higher performance.

3. In order to accommodate the latest 5G modems, it comes with 2 WiFi and 5 cellular antennas fitted with MHF4 connectors. They have done an interesting redesign of the antenna system, as the usual four WiFi antennas (2x 2GHz/2x 5GHz) have been consolidated into just two, now handling both 2G/5G WiFi bands. A well designed RF combiner/splitter should have no major affect on WiFi performance. The 5 cellular antennas are used in the following configuration:

2x Main antennas
2x Diversity/AUX antennas
1x GPS which is not absolutely necessary


Here are the specs:
https://www.zbtlink.com/sale-12902374-n ... -slot.html


Here's the latest GoldenOrb firmware (look for the latest date in the file name):
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/



Different memory and modem slot versions:

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


Modems:

The most popular modems in the US are the Quectel EM12-G (4G), EM16-G (EM160R 4G), RM500Q-AE (5G) and the Simcom SIM7912G-M2 (4G), SIM7920G-M2 (4G), SIM8200EA-M2 (5G).

Note that the Quectel RM500Q-"AE" must be version "AE", and Simcom SIM8200"EA"-M2 must be version "EA", only those versions will work properly on all US 5G bands. For example the RM500Q-"GL" and the SIM8200"G"-M2 are the global versions with SA (Stand-Alone) bands only, and are missing essential NSA (Non-Stand-Alone) bands. This is very important when ordering modems, otherwise they are useless on US 5G bands or very limited, and will only work in 4G-LTE mode. In the US we use NSA modems since we don't have a fully SA network yet, so make sure to get the right modem which covers most of your carrier's bands and modes.
Here's a good explanation about the difference between SA and NSA bands/modes:
https://www.ericsson.com/en/blog/2019/7 ... -5g-tracks


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

Tmobile 5G bands:
n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz, not the same as the 4G-LTE 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 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.


List of currently available 5G modems:

Fibocom FG100 modem (chipset: Intel XMM 8160) and Fibocom FB101 (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the sub-6GHz bands for ATT and Tmobile, including mmWave for Verizon.
4G-LTE bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 66, 71
5G sub-6GHz bands: n1, n2, n3, n4, n5, n6, n20, n28, n38, n41, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79, n80, n81, n82, n83, n84
5G mmWave bands: N257, N261, N260


Fibocom FM150-NA (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) which is usually shipped with the WG1608, only has one sub-6GHz band n41 for ATT and Tmobile, no mmWave for Verizon, therefore it's very limited and better off going with another modem.
4G LTE bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 66, 71
5G sub-6GHz bands: n2, n41, n66, n78


Quectel RM500Q-AE modem (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the sub-6GHz bands for ATT and Tmobile, no mmWave for Verizon. Reportedly the RM500Q-GL global version only supports these NSA bands n41, n77, n78, n79 missing the important n71, so make sure to check with the seller.
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 sub-6GHz bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n28, n38, n40, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79


Quectel RM510Q modem (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the sub-6GHz bands for ATT and Tmobile, including mmWave for Verizon.
Reportedly the RM510Q-GL version only supports bands n41, n77, n78, n79, so make sure to check with the seller.
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 sub-6GHz bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n28, n38, n40, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79, n257, n258, n260, n261
5G mmWave bands: N257, N258, N260, N261


Sierra EM9190 modem (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the sub-6GHz bands for ATT and Tmobile, including mmWave for Verizon.
4G LTE bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 46, 48, 66, 71
5G sub-6GHz bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n28, n38, n39, n40, n41, n66, n71
5G mmWave bands: N257, N258, N260, N261


Simcom SIM8200EA-M2 modem (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the sub-6GHz bands for ATT and Tmobile, no mmWave for Verizon. Reportedly the SIM8200G-M2 global version only supports these NSA bands n41, n77, n78, n79 missing the important n71, so make sure to check with the seller.
4G LTE bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 48, 66 ,71
5G sub-6GHz bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n28, n40, n41, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79


Telit FN980 modem (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the sub-6GHz bands for ATT and Tmobile, including mmWave for Verizon.
4G LTE bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 46, 48, 66, 71
5G sub-6GHz bands: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n12, n14, n20, n28, n30, n41, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79
5G mmWave bands: N257, N258, N260, N261






Here's my speed test using a Simcom SIM8200"EA"-M2 (NOT the SIM8200"G"-M2 model which doesn't work well on 5G due to missing some NSA bands) in a WG1608 and SimpleMobile service. I ran this test at 3am in the morning with no congestion, about half a mile away in a line of sight from the tower 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

[Didneywhorl]

The modem it comes with is a Fibocom FM150-NA.

[BillA]

The modem it comes with is a Fibocom FM150-NA.

Figured some cheesy modem lol... The Fibocom FM150-NA only has the US Sprint 5G band n41 + LTE bands, therefore it's very limited and you're better off going with one of the other models.

[aaron.brisendine]

I purchased one and got it in today. It comes with stock OpenWRT. Problem is there is no where to input an APN so as of now its just an expensive piece of metal.

[Didneywhorl]

That sucks. Not even under ->>network-->interfaces?

Mine just got picked up by DHL in Hong Kong

[BillA]

That sucks. Not even under ->>network-->interfaces?

Mine just got picked up by DHL in Hong Kong

If the firmware has a startup script available, then you can manually enter the APN as a command, something like this: AT+CGDCONT=1,"IP","<apn>","",0,0
As more people get this router, there's a better chance that a custom firmware would be released.
In the meantime you may want to check with Dairyman on the Whirlpool forum, he's the guy who makes the GoldenOrb firmware. https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/thread/3vx1k1r3

[BillA]

Great news!! GoldenOrb firmware is now available for the WG1608
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/

[gscheb]

Hello,
Is anyone using a WG1608 router with success? Or is this product a gamble currently?

[BillA]

Hello,
Is anyone using a WG1608 router with success? Or is this product a gamble currently?

I was a gamble till the GoldenOrb firmware was just released. The key is to get a good 5G modem which will set you back between $500-$1,000 bucks.

[gscheb]

I was a gamble till the GoldenOrb firmware was just released. The key is to get a good 5G modem which will set you back between $500-$1,000 bucks.

Hello,
Planning on using maybe Quectal EM20-G. Don't think that is a 5G modem. Thought was has the holes drilled for the 4 4G antennas and don't need an key adapter.
Is this a mistake? It will work for that right?

[BillA]

Hello,
Planning on using maybe Quectal EM20-G. Don't think that is a 5G modem. Thought was has the holes drilled for the 4 4G antennas and don't need an key adapter.
Is this a mistake? It will work for that right?

The Quectel EM20 should work just fine with this router, though it's more geared towards 5G modems to get the full speed benefits. No holes need to be drilled, since it comes with four modem antennas and MHF4 connectors, plus one more for GPS which is normally not used. The four WiFi antennas have been combined into two, and it comes with a more stable WiFi chipset. You can always upgrade to a 5G modem later on when prices come down a bit, it's basically "future-proof".

[gscheb]

Thanks
I live in the country. Don't think 5G will get to me.

[Didneywhorl]

WRONG!!!! BAD GSCHEB!!! BAD!! BAD!!!


JK, lol.

Keep up the positive vibes man!The Sub 6Ghz 5G stuff is going to be basically 4GLTE-A-5Glite. Not the mmWave stuff, but the Sub 6Ghz stuff will not likely be enabled really soon, but the lower frequencies will take over as NR bands. They will only be accessible by the newer radios out there. I could be wrong, but there is a reason the bands are called n41, n66 and n71 in a separate category from b66 and b71 and b41.

Keep up hope fren!!!!

[redapse]

Thank you BillA for the info! I purchased a quectal RM500q-GL and a 1608. Hopefully it comes in the next 3 weeks or so.

[redapse]

BillA are you using a different power adapter with this than the one it ships with? Thank you

[BillA]

BillA are you using a different power adapter with this than the one it ships with? Thank you

It comes with a 2.5Amp adapter, but it's probably best to go with a 3Amp one.

The Sub 6Ghz 5G stuff is going to be basically 4GLTE-A-5Glite. Not the mmWave stuff, but the Sub 6Ghz stuff will not likely be enabled really soon, but the lower frequencies will take over as NR bands. They will only be accessible by the newer radios out there. I could be wrong, but there is a reason the bands are called n41, n66 and n71 in a separate category from b66 and b71 and b41.

From what I've read, the sub 6Ghz bands n5 (800Mhz), n41 (2.5 GHz), n71 (600 MHz) are fully deployed by most carriers especially Tmobile, which can reach longer distanced but it can only go up to about 1Gbps, real word speeds are more like 500Mbps.
As you've noted mmWave N260 (39 GHz), N261 (28 GHz) uses frequencies above 40 GHz, and while they can go up to 10 Gbps on paper, real world speeds are currently around 1 Gbps. The water content in your hands can block those high frequency signals, so it's a hit and miss till they deploy micro-cells on every street corner (I'm already seeing small flat boxes on some light poles). Microwave radiation drops off according to the inverse square law, so at 20 inches it would be down by about a factor of 100 (source: Wiki).
Mobile routers with external stubby antennas should be able to perform better than phones (in theory), since there are no human hands touching it, provided that the building's structure doesn't attenuate the signal.

[Didneywhorl]

I sooo geek out on this stuff. Man I wish I had more time to put into more geek time!

[redapse]

Are you running a poe injector and splitter with this? If so, which ones? Trying to get this stuff ready to go once I have the router and modem. Thanks

[Didneywhorl]

Are you running a poe injector and splitter with this? If so, which ones? Trying to get this stuff ready to go once I have the router and modem. Thanks

I've not tested it yet, but I will soon.

I have run the unit with the Fibcom FM150NA on Sprint and it has worked flawlessly for 3 days now.

Honestly I dont see any issue with the fibocom, but I havent done a ton with it yet. It covers every single US band there is, including the NR sub 6Ghz bands. It doesnt have mmWave support, but theres ZERO mmWave antennas available that anyone can use without assembling their own home brew setup. mmWave is still a ways out for so many; a year or two even.

[gscheb]

I have run the unit with the Fibcom FM150NA on Sprint and it has worked flawlessly for 3 days now.

Honestly I dont see any issue with the fibocom, but I havent done a ton with it yet. It covers every single US band there is, including the NR sub 6Ghz bands.

Hello,
Did you load rooter to this router?
Or just use openwrt that it comes with?
Did you have to do any firmware update to the Fibocom modem? Or did it just work right away with some generic firmware?
Is it any better or faster than the Quectal modem?

[BillA]

I've not tested it yet, but I will soon.

I have run the unit with the Fibcom FM150NA on Sprint and it has worked flawlessly for 3 days now.

Honestly I dont see any issue with the fibocom, but I havent done a ton with it yet. It covers every single US band there is, including the NR sub 6Ghz bands. It doesnt have mmWave support, but theres ZERO mmWave antennas available that anyone can use without assembling their own home brew setup. mmWave is still a ways out for so many; a year or two even.

According to the specs, the Fibocom FM150-NA definitely has all the US LTE bands, BUT the only 5G band is n41 which is used by Sprint exclusively. So, it will connect to all carriers, but will only provide a 5G connection on the Sprint network.


FM150-NA (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) which is normally shipped with the WG1608, only has the US Sprint 5G band n41 + LTE bands, therefore it's very limited and better off going with one of the other models.
4G-LTE Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 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: n2, n41, n66, n78


Fibocom FG100 modem (chipset: Intel XMM 8160) and Fibocom FB101 (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the US carrier bands.
4G-LTE Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 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, n4, n5, n6, n20, n28, n38, n41, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79, n80, n81, n82, n83, n84, N257, N261, N260

[Didneywhorl]

According to the specs, the Fibocom FM150-NA definitely has all the US LTE bands, BUT the only 5G band is n41 which is used by Sprint exclusively. So, it will connect to all carriers, but will only provide a 5G connection on the Sprint network.

My sheet shows all US 5G sub 6 bands. n5, n41, and ,n71. And the non us bands, n2, n7, n12, n25, n48, n66, n78. Im guessing n66 will be a US band, but I couldn't confirm those US sub 6 bands yet.

FM150-NA (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) which is normally shipped with the WG1608, only has the US Sprint 5G band n41 + LTE bands, therefore it's very limited and better off going with one of the other models.
4G-LTE Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 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: n2, n41, n66, n78

You can get it without the modem, but you knew that. . I gotta dig out my spec sheet from Fibocom....

Product Features

• Chipset: SDX55
• Support SA/NSA network architectures，support ENDC
• 5G Sub-6: n2, n5, n7, n12, n25, n41, n48*, n66, n71, n78
• LTE: B2, B4, B5, B7, B12, B13, B14, B17, B25, B26, B29, B30,
B41, B42, B43*,B48, B66, B71
• LAA: B46
• WCDMA: B1, B2, B4, B5, B8
• MIMO:
5G NR: DL 4*4 MIMO:n2,n7,n25,n41,n66,n71*,n78
UL 1*1 MIMO
LTE : DL 4*4 MIMO:
B2,B4,B7,B25,B29,B30,B41,B42,B48,B66,B71
UL 1*1 MIMO

Theres more info, but that's not for here I guess. That's off the Fibocom spec sheet

Fibocom FG100 modem (chipset: Intel XMM 8160) and Fibocom FB101 (chipset: Qualcomm SDX55) has all the US carrier bands.
4G-LTE Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 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, n4, n5, n6, n20, n28, n38, n41, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79, n80, n81, n82, n83, n84, N257, N261, N260

Yeah, the best unit I've found is the Quectel RM510Q it has literally EVERY BAND, except B0, B9, B11, B21. But all sub 6 and mmWave bands.

Ive got to record the FG100 in my sheets

[BillA]

My sheet shows all US 5G sub 6 bands. n5, n41, and ,n71. And the non us bands, n2, n7, n12, n25, n48, n66, n78. Im guessing n66 will be a US band, but I couldn't confirm those US sub 6 bands yet.

It's possible that they sent me the "AE" specs, it would make sense if the "NA" version would have most US bands.
I will contact them again, but I believe it's missing the "N" band N260, N260 used for Verizon.
Anyway, you can display the network operator you're connected to via:

Code: Select all

AT+COPS?

It should show something like
+COPS:0,0,“Tmobile 5G”,11

[Didneywhorl]

Thats correct on the n260. The FM150NA has none of the mmWave bands. It doesnt have an antenna interface for the mmWave antennas. Only sub 6Ghz bands.

[jhend]

Great news!! GoldenOrb firmware is now available for the WG1608
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/

There's a newer version with improved Fibocom FM150 support available for testing:

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

[Didneywhorl]

There's a newer version with improved Fibocom FM150 support available for testing:

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

Nice! Thanks jhend!

[Rafterman78]

Has anyone found a cheaper place to buy one? And which modem would you order it with?

[Didneywhorl]

Has anyone found a cheaper place to buy one? And which modem would you order it with?

Cheaper than what? Where have you found them for sale?

[Rafterman78]

Sample price : $538.46/pcs from
https://www.zbtlink.com/sale-12902374-n ... -slot.html

[Rafterman78]

It does not look like they are offer this with the FB101. Anyone want to go in on one?

[Didneywhorl]

I dont think you can get cheaper than the manufacturer! Lol! Don't forget shipping cost and zero support for the item

[autovet]

I'm waiting on my WG1608 to arrive. Can someone give a performance review on it? How are the speeds compared to a WE826? Has anyone had success with a carrier? If so which one?

[peterjkim]

Just received mine but can't get mine to connect on T-Mobile. Strange because the connection log, it shows that the modem is connected, it shows all the signal information and cell information, able to send and receive SMS but no internet connection. Any ideas? Using the latest WG1608-GO2020-06-14.zip firmware...

[Didneywhorl]

Strange. Can you ping an external ip like 8.8.8.8? Anything odd in the system log?

[peterjkim]

System log giving two conflicting bits of info:

user.notice QMI Connect: status is "connected"

...

user.notice Create Connection: Connected
user.notice Connection Monitor: Start Connection Monitor for Modem 1
user.notice Connection Monitor: Modem 1 Connection is Down (no IP address)
user.notice Connection Monitor: Modem 1 Connection is Down (using Ping Test)

Can't ping out to any external IPs or anything, left scratching my head here. And is it just me or does it take a long time for the configuration pages to load on the router? It shows Collecting data... and stalls pretty frequently, never had these issues with the WG3526 before, any ideas?

[Didneywhorl]

To clarify, your using the 5G version with the Fibocom FM150NA module?

[peterjkim]

yes, pretty sure the FM150-NA is only available in 5G

[Didneywhorl]

Ten 4, but the WG1608 is available without the 5G modem. Just making sure you werent using a different modem. Could've put us on a goose chase

[peterjkim]

Odd, my earlier reply disappeared into thin air. I can't ping any external IPs. Accidentally ruined the M1 and M2 antenna cables while opening the unit so I'm only connected to the main and diversity antennas at the moment.

Getting conflicting info in the syslog, it shows:

Mon Jun 22 21:33:15 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: Waiting for network registration
Mon Jun 22 21:33:15 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: Starting network fast.t-mobile.com
Mon Jun 22 21:33:15 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: Connection returned : -1273524232
Mon Jun 22 21:33:16 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: status is "connected"
Mon Jun 22 21:33:16 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: GET-CURRENT-SETTINGS is {"pdp-type":"ipv4-or-ipv6","ip-family":"ipv4","mtu":1500,"ipv4":{"ip":"xx.xx.xx.xx","dns1":"xx.xx.xx.xx","dns2":"xx.xx.xx.xx","gateway":"xx.xx.xx.xx","subnet":"255.255.255.248"},"ipv6":{},"domain-names":{}}
Mon Jun 22 21:33:16 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: IPv6 Connection returned : -1275427558
Mon Jun 22 21:33:16 2020 user.notice QMI Connect: IPv6 status is "connected"

then it shows:

Mon Jun 22 21:33:36 2020 user.notice Create Connection: Connected
Mon Jun 22 21:33:36 2020 user.notice Connection Monitor: Start Connection Monitor for Modem 1
Mon Jun 22 21:33:36 2020 user.notice Connection Monitor: Modem 1 Connection is Down (no IP address)

Under Modem > Network Status, it shows all the modem SIM information, signal information, signal strength is pretty good at 70%, clearly shows it's connected to B66, etc. etc. but can't connect to anything.

[Didneywhorl]

Just making certain.... you tested the ping while it was saying it was connected, before the modemonitor reset it? Did you turn on connection monitor under connection profile?

[Didneywhorl]

Also are you using iptables and ip6tables to change your ttl in the network->firewall->custom rules setting?

[peterjkim]

Yep, there's a short window between when it shows connected and when connection monitor shows it is not connected, but I was unable to ping out within that time window anyway. I did turn on the connection monitor under connection profile, it was set up exactly like I had in the past with my WG3526 units to ping 8.8.8.8 to determine if the connection was up.

[peterjkim]

I had the TTL set at 65, but no difference even when I disable the TTL change.

[Didneywhorl]

You set both ttl changes for iptables and ip6tables?

I like to disable the connection monitor so that I can troubleshoot the errors before the system reboots the modem on its own. Ive found connection monitor to be a bandaid for issues that would've been resolved sooner had I know the modem was going down sooner.

[peterjkim]

I just disabled the TTL change altogether since it shouldn't impact connectivity, my SIM isn't a tablet plan or a hotspot limited plan so it shouldn't make a difference. In the syslog, it shows that I'm being assigned an IP address, DNS addresses and gateway/subnet, but I don't see it showing up in the Status/Overview page under External Internet IP Address. Still no connection...ugh. On a side note, is it still showing up as WG3526 on your Status/Overview page as well under the model?

[peterjkim]

Strangest thing, I flashed the 06-10 dated firmware and now it works, even shows WG1608 in the model on the Status/Overview page. Flashed 06-14, connection lost and shows WG3526 in the model again.

[Didneywhorl]

The 6-14 version has issues in my opinion. Including a broken openWRT certificate. But that may have been fixed since I last tried. The 6-10 version works great for me

[Didneywhorl]

6-10 is the only one I've seen with the 1608 in the title graphic. Its basically a modified 3526 firmware though I think. I know jhend is doing a ton of work on it.

[peterjkim]

Yeah, I've been following up over on the ROOter forum, 06-10 works perfectly fine minus the 5Ghz WiFi, 06-14, I can't get it to work for the life of me. At least it's running, didn't want the unit to be a $600 paperweight!

[Didneywhorl]

Right. It'll work out over time

[BillA]

Yeah, I've been following up over on the ROOter forum, 06-10 works perfectly fine minus the 5Ghz WiFi, 06-14, I can't get it to work for the life of me. At least it's running, didn't want the unit to be a $600 paperweight!

By not having all four antenna cables connected, don't expect 5G to work well or at all since both sub6G and mmWave bands are quite finicky when it comes to 5G signals.
You can tell you current connection status via these AT commands:

Code: Select all

AT+COPS?
AT+QNWINFO
AT+QENG="servingcell"

If you're actually connected to 5G, it should display something like
+COPS:0,0,“Tmobile 5G”,11
+QNWINFO: "FDD NR","310260","5G BAND x",xxx
+QENG: "servingcell","Tmobile 5G","NR","FDD",310,260


To find out your modem's exact model number (may have to enter each command twice):

Code: Select all

ATI
AT+CGSN
AT+GMM
AT+GMR

[autovet]

Do we know which modems the GoldenOrb software supports?

[autovet]

I purchased one and got it in today. It comes with stock OpenWRT. Problem is there is no where to input an APN so as of now its just an expensive piece of metal.

You have to go under interfaces>cellulsr and click 4G module. Then the APN box shows up.

[redapse]

Has anyone been able to band lock and or carrier aggregate with your rm500q? I can't seem to find the commands to do so. The modem doesn't seem to support the "band" argument with at+qcfg command.

[Didneywhorl]

Send a message to Quectel Sales, they will send you an AT Commands manual if you give them the info they request of you.

[BillA]

Has anyone been able to band lock and or carrier aggregate with your rm500q? I can't seem to find the commands to do so. The modem doesn't seem to support the "band" argument with at+qcfg command.

Here's the Quectel RG500Q AT command manual.
https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=88 ... 0682885479

[redapse]

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...

[BillA]

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...

You have to issue some new 5GNR commands, search for it on > https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/thread/3vx1k1r3?p=649

[srtec]

Sorry but where do I buy this model?

[BillA]

Sorry but where do I buy this model?

Currently it's only available as an import from China, and given the current lockdown situation, it can take months to go through customs. The WG3526 is more readily available in the US, and it can be used with a 5G modem by adding two additional antennas. The WG1608 is just a newer slightly improved model, but not absolutely necessary for 5G, it's really the 5G modem you install in either router which makes the biggest difference.

[autovet]

Has anyone figured out where to buy a FG100 or equivalent with band n71 which will work in the WG1608

[farberm]

BillA:
Is there a new version of goldenorb coming for the WG1608. I am using 6-10 version as 6-14 had some issues. I thought I read somewhere where a new verison is about to be released? Do not see it however..

[gscheb]

Hello,
How do you put a sim card in to a wg1608?
There is like a black plastic thing in the way?
Afraid I am going to break it.

[Viper67857]

There's a hole beside the black plastic thing.. You stick something small in there and it ejects... Then it's like a tray you place the sim in and pop it back inside

[gscheb]

There's a hole beside the black plastic thing.. You stick something small in there and it ejects... Then it's like a tray you place the sim in and pop it back inside

Kinda kool it does that. Wish the sim wasn't upside down though when you install it. Even the word sim printed on the plastic tray is upside down.

[Didneywhorl]

It is a goofy sim card tray

[tambutso]

Great news!! GoldenOrb firmware is now available for the WG1608
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/

Jim we need to have a mirror for this firmware. Dairyman occasionally takes down custom jobs he puts up there.

[tambutso]

It's possible that they sent me the "AE" specs, it would make sense if the "NA" version would have most US bands.
I will contact them again, but I believe it's missing the "N" band N260, N260 used for Verizon.
Anyway, you can display the network operator you're connected to via:

Code: Select all

AT+COPS?

It should show something like
+COPS:0,0,“Tmobile 5G”,11

Anybody using SIM8200? Any of you guys got this thing to connect to T-Mobile 5G. I have populated all antenna ports, still connects only to LTE (verified by AT commands). I can not seem to force this card to connect to 5G

[BillA]

BillA:
Is there a new version of goldenorb coming for the WG1608. I am using 6-10 version as 6-14 had some issues. I thought I read somewhere where a new verison is about to be released? Do not see it however..

Here are all the versions currently available:
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/W ... -05-26.zip
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/W ... -05-27.zip
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/W ... -06-10.zip
https://www.ofmodemsandmen.com/upload/W ... -06-14.zip

Anybody using SIM8200? Any of you guys got this thing to connect to T-Mobile 5G. I have populated all antenna ports, still connects only to LTE (verified by AT commands). I can not seem to force this card to connect to 5G

You have to issue some new 5GNR commands, search for it on > https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/thread/3vx1k1r3?p=649

[prideauxx]

Where are you guy sourcing these from? I may be interested in buying one, but so far prices appear above $530 US for single piece orders from China.

[BillA]

Where are you guy sourcing these from? I may be interested in buying one, but so far prices appear above $530 US for single piece orders from China.

The high price is due an included (not so great) modem. The router alone is around the same cost as the WG3526, you can either import it or wait/look for a US seller.

[tambutso]

Where are you guy sourcing these from? I may be interested in buying one, but so far prices appear above $530 US for single piece orders from China.

send me a PM if you're interested

[OptimusPrime]

send me a PM if you're interested

For some reason I am not able to send a PM. Please let me know if you supply the SIM8200.

Thanks.

[Didneywhorl]

I might have some available in a few weeks. But I'm not getting them with modems. The Fibocom modem it comes with is dreadful in my opinion. If you want a 5G modem, I would go with the Quectel RM500Q. 5G stuff is so early. The 4x4 MIMO LTE modems now, those pop right in and need to antenna changes.

[OptimusPrime]

If you want a 5G modem, I would go with the Quectel RM500Q

Any particular reason you would favor this over the SIM8200EA-M2?