Network Settings – Cat 1 bis Only Devices

This article explains how to configure network settings for Digital Matter devices that use LTE Cat 1 bis connectivity only. These devices do not support 2G fallback. 

For devices that support Cat 1 bis with 2G fallback, see Network Settings – Global Devices.

Recommendation: It is best practice to use the default configuration if unsure about which bands are available locally. However, if bandmasking is necessary, we recommend that you first make sure which bands are available locally, and whether the Global devices supports any of those bands (see below for more information). 

A general way to quickly check is through basic research online. However, the safest way to be fully certain is to check with your local network provider.
 

Setting the Network Profile

The network profile is configured through the device’s Admin Parameters in Device Manager.

To configure the network profile:

Open the device in Device Manager.

1. Select Parameters.
2. Open Admin Parameters.
3. Add or open the Network parameters.
4. Select the required network profile.
5. Save the parameters and allow the device to download the change.
    

The available options generally include:

Default

The default profile allows the modem to scan all LTE bands supported by the device.

Use the default profile when:

• The available LTE bands are unknown.
• The device will be used across multiple countries or regions.
• The SIM can roam between multiple operators.
• The bands used by roaming partner networks have not been confirmed.
• Connectivity is more important than optimising registration time.

The default profile is the safest option when you are unsure which bands should be configured.

Custom

The custom profile allows you to define the LTE bands the modem will scan and, where required, a default APN.

Limiting the modem to known LTE bands can reduce unnecessary scanning, improve registration time and reduce battery consumption.

Only use a custom profile after confirming:

• The LTE bands used by the intended network operator.
• The LTE bands supported by the device variant.
• Any additional bands required by roaming partner networks.
• That the configuration works with the intended SIM and deployment location.

Band availability can often be researched online. However, the safest approach is to confirm the required bands with the network or SIM provider.

 

Custom Network Strings

Custom network strings are entered in the Custom Network field within the Network parameters.

Please note that the string is case sensitive. If you aren't fully sure how to apply the correct bandmasking for your specific network availability, please contact your local distributor for help.

Multiple options can be entered as a comma-separated list.

Where possible, use the numeric b format because it is easier to read, review and troubleshoot.

For example:

b3+7+28

This instructs the modem to scan LTE Bands 3, 7 and 28.

A custom string containing both a band selection and an APN may look like:

b3+7+28,Aexample.apn

This instructs the modem to scan LTE Bands 3, 7 and 28 and sets the profile’s default APN to example.apn.

Do not include spaces in the custom network string.

Note: The APN can also be set using the dedicated system admin Fixed APN tab, see below. 

 

Setting the Cat 1 bis Band Mask

A band mask tells the modem which LTE bands it should scan when attempting to register.

Cat 1 bis modems may support many LTE bands. Without a custom band mask, the modem may need to scan all supported bands before finding the local network.

Restricting the scan to bands known to be available can:

• Reduce network registration time
• Reduce unnecessary modem activity
• Improve battery life
• Make network selection more predictable

For example:

b3+7+28
 

This restricts the device to LTE Bands 3, 7 and 28.

A band set must not be assumed to work in every country or with every operator. Different networks may use different LTE bands, even within the same country.

This is particularly important when using roaming SIMs. The device may connect to several local operators, and each roaming partner may use a different combination of LTE bands.

When configuring a roaming deployment, the band mask must include the required bands for all intended roaming networks. Otherwise, leave the network profile set to Default.

 

Supported LTE Bands

Supported LTE bands may vary between device and modem variants.

Before applying a custom band mask:

• Check the product datasheet or user guide for the bands supported by the device.
   
• Confirm the bands used by the intended operator.
   
• Confirm any bands used by alternative or roaming operators.
   
• Test the configuration in the intended deployment area.
   
• Selecting a band supported by the network but not by the device will not provide connectivity.
   
• Selecting a band supported by the device but unavailable through the local operator may increase scanning and registration time.
  
   

Setting the APN Defaults

The Access Point Name, or APN, provides the information required for the device to establish a data connection through the SIM provider. Fixed APN parameters override the defaults contained in the network profile.

The APN can be configured through the Fixed APN Admin Parameters.

If the Fixed APN fields are blank, the device may use the APN specified in the selected network profile or custom network string.

Any APN values that are not specified will remain blank by default.

Many networks accept a blank APN, username or password. However, explicitly configuring the correct APN is recommended wherever possible.

Obtain the following information from the SIM or network provider:

• APN
   
• Username, if required
   
• Password, if required

The SIM may register on the cellular network while still being unable to establish a data connection if the APN is incorrect.
 

Troubleshooting

If a device does not connect after its network settings have been changed:

• Confirm that the SIM is active and has available data.
   
• Confirm that the APN, username and password are correct.
   
• Confirm that the selected LTE bands are supported by the device.
   
• Confirm that the selected bands are available through the local operator.
   
• Confirm that roaming is enabled if a roaming SIM is being used.
   
• Review device logs for SIM, registration or APN errors.
   
• Return the network profile to Default if the device can still receive Admin Parameters.
   
• Remember that Cat 1 bis only devices cannot fall back to 2G.
   
• If the selected configuration prevents the device from registering, local provisioning via the DM Link may be required.

Further Reading

• Device Network Settings
   
• Network Settings – Global Devices
   
• Barra Fusion Cat 1bis EUK - Supported Countries and Network Settings