Device Network Settings for Thailand - LTE-M/NB-IoT
Written by Iman Kareem
Updated at August 27th, 2026
In most cases, with most SIM cards, our latest range of devices that use the Nordic cellular modems will get online automatically.
However, to get the best performance and battery life it is best to:
- Update your device to the latest device firmware and modem firmware
- Set the APN on the device
- Set cellular band masks
Device and Modem Firmware
Updating to the latest firmware, particularly the modem firmware will bring bug fixes and other connectivity improvements. So, it is best to keep your firmware up to date.
Updating Device Firmware in Device Manager
Updating Modem Firmware in Device Manager
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Setting the APN and other Network settings
In many countries, using the SIMs from local providers do not usually any additional config on our devices to be able to connect to the network. However, we've noticed that local SIMs from AIS (Thailand's main telco) required an APN and the older PCO (Protocol Configuration Options; for NB-IoT) enabled. This can be done using the DM-Link tool
DNS Troubleshooting on 4G
4G Network Settings - LTE-M and NB-IoT
Our KPN and other Roaming SIMs can connect automatically. However, we believe setting the APN helps with faster registrations which in turn improves battery life and overall stability. We believe the benefits of setting these network settings also hold true for local SIMs like AIS'.
Our 4G devices are able to connect on NB-IoT and LTE-M networks, across well over 30 different frequencies.
This allows for the device to connect on networks all over the world.
For most deployments, where the device is not travelling between multiple countries - the network will be on a specific handful of bands.
For example, within Thailand, the AIS NB-IoT network operates frequency band 8. And band 3 for LTE-M.
When the device attempts to connect, it is best to limit the device to only search for the network on the bands in use in the country. (i.e. no need to scan band 5 in Thailand - there is no network to find). Scanning each band takes time, so limit the search space for the lowest possible energy consumption.
This is particularly important to do when using roaming SIM cards for the best battery performance. However, only do this if your device is staying within Thailand.
Registration Strategy
Our Nordic-based devices offer different registration modes which can help save power. Partners can test the different mode starting with “Ultra Low Power” mode work well with local/home SIMs including AIS SIMs. If you see an increase in failed uploads even in good coverage, try “Low Power” and then “Balanced” mode
More on Registration Strategy modes here.
Settings for Various SIM cards
Admin Parameters - Use Caution
When making admin parameter changes, the connection settings of the device are being edited - which naturally can cause connectivity problems if misconfigured.
To limit the risk of issue
- Always test on a small selection of units, verify operation, then templatise your parameters for bulk deployment
- Double check the APN mentioned below with your SIM provider
Digital Matter KPN SIM Card
Note: Based on limited testing, we have observed that devices using KPN SIMs can roam onto the AIS/AWN LTE-M network (using band 3) in Thailand. As of writing this article in June 2026, KPN does not officially support LTE-M or NB-IoT connectivity in Thailand. Therefore, while connectivity may work, there is a possibility that KPN SIMs could be restricted or blocked from accessing the AIS/AWN network in the future. Contact DM support if you plan to use KPN SIMs in Thailand.
1. Admin Parameters > Fixed APN → digitalmatter
2. Admin Parameters > 4G Network→ Custom Network → m3
3. System Parameters > Upload Timeout → Low Power
If you see an increase in failed uploads and the device is in a poor coverage area, setting the Registration Strategy to Balanced’ may help
AIS/AWN NB-IoT SIM Card
1. Admin Parameters > Fixed APN → devkit.nb
Confirm with your provider if this is the correct APN for your SIM cards
2. Admin Parameters > 4G Network → Custom Network → n8,x
3. System Parameters > Upload Timeout → Ultra Low Power
If you see an increase in failed uploads and the device is in a poor coverage area, setting the Registration Strategy to Balanced’ may help
