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Troubleshooting Slow or Unstable Connection on Cellular Flexy

05 Jul 2022
This article describes how to view a Flexy’s cell signal reception as well as some strategies for improving that reception if it’s inadequate.

APPLICABLE PRODUCTS

  • Ewon Flexy with cellular extension card

 

ISSUE / QUESTION / SYMPTOM

Poor cell reception can cause connection instability, slow file transfers, or an outright inability to connect. Ewon measure its cell signal from 0 to 31, with a minimum value of 18 recommended for a stable connection.

This guide assumes the Flexy is equipped with the right modem for the desired network, a valid and active SIM card, and the correct information to connect to that network.

To view the signal directly:

  1. Navigate to Setup → System → Communication → Networking → Internet Connection → Modem → Interface
  2. The value will be in parentheses next to the signal bars near the top

https://forum.hms-networks.com/uploads/default/original/3X/b/c/bc2459866eaaefd59ab15791ad4d9a9e188b8672.png

Fig 1. Viewing the cell signal in a Flexy's modem settings menu

Alternatively:

  1. Navigate to Diagnostic → Files Transfer → estat.htm
  2. Check the value GsmSignal

https://forum.hms-networks.com/uploads/default/original/3X/8/0/80dc2d2e433c332e55345f650cfde52dff83f0ae.png

Fig 2. Navigating to estat.htm to view system information

To load the signal into a tag:

  1. Create a new tag
  2. Set the Server Name to EWON and the Topic Name to SYS
  3. Use GSM_LEV as the address

A tag configured to show cellular reception

Fig 3. A tag configured to show cell signal

 

 

POSSIBLE CAUSES / ANSWER

  • The Ewon’s positioning
    • If the Ewon is in the middle of a large room, it may have trouble receiving cell signals from outside
    • Being located on the ground floor of a larger building or in the basement of any building can also impact reception
  • Metallic materials nearby
    • A cellular Ewon should not be mounted inside a metal equipment cabinet unless it’s using a cabled antenna that runs outside the cabinet
  • Interference from electrical equipment like:
    • High frequency drives
    • Transformers
  • The cellular network’s performance in the area
  • A rate limited IoT plan

 

TROUBLESHOOTING STEPS

  • Verify the hardware being used
    • Is the modem appropriate for the network?
    • Is the SIM card active and inserted correctly?
  • Verify the information used to connect
    • The error eppp-PPP negociation failed. (user/password/pap-chap?) indicates an issue with the APN, username, or password
    • The cell carrier should provide the right APN to use
    • In most cases, username and password aren’t needed
  • If possible, place the Flexy near a window
  • Use HMS’s cabled antenna for 4G (part number FAC90901_0100)
    • Be mindful of third party options, which may have issues due to different supported frequencies, excessive length, or too many joints degrading the signal
  • Check for nearby EMI emitters like high frequency drives
  • If another device using the same cell network is available, look at its reception on site
  • Ensure both the Flexy and its modem are on the latest firmware