# Connecting the CloudBox to a 4G Network

The **RUFUS CloudBox** supports **4G connectivity** via a built-in **SIM7600G-H 4G HAT**, which enables internet and **Cloud** access using a cellular network. This is ideal for events where traditional Ethernet or WiFi infrastructure is unavailable or impractical. The CloudBox has a **SIM card slot** and allows users to configure the **SIM PIN** if required. Once connected to the 4G network, the CloudBox can share the internet connection with devices connected to its **WiFi Access Point** or through its **Ethernet port**.

This article explains the key considerations, steps for connecting to a 4G network, and how to verify the connection.

## Key Considerations Before Connecting

1. **SIM Card and Cellular Network**:
* Insert a **2FF Mini SIM card** (25 x 15 x 0.76 mm) with an active data plan into the SIM slot.
* The CloudBox supports multiple **LTE bands** for global compatibility, as well as **3G** and **2G** fallback.
* Ensure that the location has adequate **4G signal strength** from the network provider.
2. **SIM PIN Configuration**:
* If your SIM card has a **PIN code** enabled, you can configure this on the CloudBox by entering the required SIM PIN in the configuration interface. This ensures that the CloudBox can access the cellular network securely.
3. **GPS and Antenna Setup**:
* The CloudBox also includes a **GNSS receiver** that supports **GPS, Beidou, GLONASS, Galileo**, and **QZSS**, enhancing location accuracy for mobile use cases.
* Ensure that both the **LTE main antenna** and **GNSS antenna** are properly connected for optimal connectivity and signal strength.

## Steps to Connect the CloudBox to a 4G Network

### 1. Insert the SIM Card

* **Step 1**: Power off the CloudBox before inserting the SIM card.
* **Step 2**: Insert the **2FF Mini SIM** card into the SIM slot, ensuring proper orientation.
* **Step 3**: Power on the CloudBox. Once powered up, the CloudBox will attempt to connect to the 4G network.

### 2. Configure the SIM PIN (if required)

* If your SIM card requires a **PIN**, access the CloudBox configuration interface via **Ethernet** or **WiFi Access Point**.
* Navigate to the **SIM settings** and enter the required PIN for the SIM card to unlock it and enable 4G connectivity. Once the PIN is entered, the CloudBox will reboot.

### 3. Ensure Adequate Signal Strength

The CloudBox supports a range of LTE and 3G bands (as outlined in the table below), which ensures global compatibility:

| **Cellular & GPS Details** | **Specifications** |
| --- | --- |
| **GNSS Receiver** | GPS, Beidou, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS |
| **Cellular Protocols** | LTE CAT-4 4G / 3G / 2G Support, Global Bands |
| **LTE Bands** | LTE-FDD: B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/B12/B13/B18/B19/B20/B25/B26/B28/B66 |
| **Data Rate** | LTE Cat-4: Up to 150Mbps (Downlink) / 50Mbps (Uplink) |
| **SIM Card Slot** | 2FF Mini SIM (25 x 15 x 0.76 mm), Supports 1.8V/3V SIM card |
| **Antenna Connectors** | LTE main antenna + GNSS antenna |

Ensure that the LTE antennas are correctly connected to achieve optimal signal reception.

## Internet Sharing and Configuration

Once the CloudBox is connected to the 4G network, it can share the internet connection with devices connected via **WiFi Access Point** or **Ethernet**.

### WiFi Access Point:

* Devices connected to the CloudBox’s **WiFi Access Point** will automatically have internet access through the CloudBox’s 4G connection.
* The **CloudBox AP** is available with the fixed IP address **192.168.4.2** and will dynamically assign IP addresses to devices using DHCP.

### Ethernet:

* Devices connected to the **Ethernet port** can access the internet through the 4G connection as long as the CloudBox is properly configured to share its 4G connection.

## Step-by-Step Ping Test

1. **Determine the CloudBox’s IP Address**:
* For devices connected to the CloudBox’s WiFi Access Point, the CloudBox has a fixed IP of `192.168.4.2`.
* For devices connected via Ethernet, check the IP address configuration of the CloudBox.
2. **Ping the CloudBox**:
* Open the **Command Prompt** and use the ping command:
ping 192.168.4.2
3. **Check Ping Results**:
* If the CloudBox is properly connected to the 4G network, you should receive replies, confirming connectivity.

## Testing Internet Connectivity:

Open a web browser on a device connected via WiFi or Ethernet and attempt to load a webpage to confirm that the CloudBox is properly sharing its 4G internet connection.

## Summary

Connecting the CloudBox to a **4G network** provides internet access in areas where traditional wired or WiFi networks are unavailable. By inserting a compatible **2FF Mini SIM card**, configuring the **SIM PIN** (if needed), and ensuring the **LTE antennas** are properly connected, you can leverage 4G connectivity for your timing operations.

Once connected, the CloudBox shares the internet via its **WiFi Access Point** or **Ethernet port**, making it accessible to any device connected to the CloudBox network. Perform connection tests and ensure optimal signal strength to guarantee stable internet access throughout your event.