This Knowledge Base Article is intended to provide information to
better prepare Users for a successful cellular device implementation. All
4G/LTE devices require a SIM card for network connectivity, and it is not always
clear what options or requirements are present.
DEFINITION
A Subscriber Identity Module,
or SIM, is a small plastic and metal
chip used to authenticate a device for cellular network connectivity. It is
issued by the network provider and is unique to a line of service on account.
Without a SIM, today’s 4G/LTE devices will not be allowed access to cellular
data networks.
FORM FACTOR
There are several SIM form factors available today, so Users should
take note of the options before purchasing service. All of Digi’s routers and
gateways use a Mini-SIM, or 2FF, while our XBee Cellular Modules
use Nano-SIM, or 4FF. For future versions and new
products, Users should always consult our data sheets or product guides for
information regarding SIM form factor requirements.
More
information on SIM Formats with scaled images can be found here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subscriber_identity_module#Formats
ACCESS POINT NAMES (APN),
USERNAMES, AND PASSWORDS
APNs are used by the network
to indicate what kind of network connection should be established with the
device. This can include IP address assignment (public/private, static/dynamic)
or if other security protocols should be enforced. These are provided by the
network provider and should always be used when configuring the device.
Examples: vzwinternet,
10569.mcs, or apn.zerogravitywireless.com
User Names and Passwords are not typically required
and should only be used if the service provider indicates they are.
For assistance with programming APNs,
User Names, or Passwords on your Digi device, please consult the User’s Guides
located on our Support Site, https://www.digi.com/support#support-tools
OBTAINING CELLULAR SERVICES
There are many ways of obtaining network access for your Digi cellular
devices, including from Digi directly. We offer easy-to-use, competitive
services for data networks in North America as well as for International
deployments.
For assistance or to obtain a
quote, please contact us:
By Phone 1-877-912-3444
option 2, then option 3, then option 7
By Email data.plan.quotedesk@digi.com
CELLULAR CONNECTIVITY CHECKLIST
To ensure you have everything you need, please consider the following
Checklist:
·
Cellular Device: Digi Gateway, Router, or XBee
Cellular Module
·
Cellular Line of Service: for data only, M2M or
IoT devices
·
SIM Card: 2FF for Routers and Gateways, 4FF for
XBee Cellular Modules
·
APN and Username/ Password (if applicable)
·
User’s Guide and relevant documentation from
www.digi.com/support
·
Point of Contact for Support
Thanks again for your continued support; if we can assist in any way,
please contact us.
Last updated:
May 10, 2018