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.