Sierra Wireless AirCard User Manual

User Guide

Sierra Wireless AirCard® Hub

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AirCard Hub User Guide

Preface

Rev 1 Feb. 2012 3

Important Notice

Due to the nature of wireless communications, transmission and reception of data can never be
guaranteed. Data may be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors) or be totally lost. Although significant
delays or losses of data are rare when wireless devices such as the Sierra Wireless AirCard Hub are
used in a normal manner with a well-constructed network, the Sierra Wireless AirCard Hub should not
be used in situations where failure to transmit or receive data could result in damage of any kind to
the user or any other party, including but not limited to personal injury, death, or loss of property.
Sierra Wireless accepts no responsibility for damages of any kind resulting from delays or errors in
data transmitted or received using the Sierra Wireless AirCard Hub, or for failure of the Sierra
Wireless AirCard Hub to transmit or receive such data.

Safety and Product Care of AirCard Hub

With reference to unpacking, installation, use and maintenance of your electronic device, the following
basic guidelines are recommended:

•

Do not use or install this product near water to avoid fire or shock hazard. For example, do
not use or install this product near a bathtub, kitchen sink, laundry tub, or near a swimming
pool. Also, do not expose the equipment to rain or damp areas (for example a wet
basement).

•

Do not connect the power supply cord on elevated surfaces. Allow it to lie freely. There
should be no obstructions in its path and no heavy items should be placed on the cord. In
addition, do not walk on, step on or mistreat the cord.

Warning : Disconnect the power line from the device before servicing.

•

To safeguard the equipment against overheating, make sure that all openings in the unit
that offer exposure to air are unobstructed.

Safety and Hazards of AirCard Mobile
Hotspot

The AirCard mobile hotspot MUST BE POWERED OFF in all areas that may be susceptible to radio
interference, in particular:

•

Prohibited areas
Obey all signs and notices and follow all rules and regulations. Power off the mobile hotspot

when instructed to do so or when you suspect that it may cause interference or danger.

•

In areas where blasting is in progress

•

Where explosive atmospheres may be present
Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are not always clearly marked. Such areas

include gas stations, fuel depots, chemical transfer or storage facilities, areas where
blasting is in progress, areas where the air contains chemicals or particles such as grain,
dust, or metal powders, and any other area where you would normally be advised to turn off
your cellular phone or vehicle engine.

•

Near medical or life-support equipment
Medical equipment may be susceptible to any form of radio interference. In such areas the

mobile hotspot can transmit signals that could interfere with this equipment.

•

On board aircraft

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AirCard Hub User Guide

In addition to Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) requirements, many airline regulations state
that you must suspend wireless operations before boarding an aircraft. The mobile hotspot
is capable of transmitting signals that could interfere with various onboard systems and
controls. Failure to observe this instruction may lead to suspension or denial of cellular
telephone services to the offender, legal action, or both. Some airlines may permit the use
of cellular phones while the aircraft is on the ground and the door is open. The mobile
hotspot may be used normally at this time.

•

While operating a vehicle
The driver or operator of any vehicle should not use a wireless data device while in control

of a vehicle. Doing so detracts from the driver or operator's ability to control and operate the
vehicle. In some countries, using such communications devices while in control of a vehicle
is an offence.

Caution: Unauthorized modifications or changes not expressly approved by Sierra Wireless, Inc.

could void compliance with regulatory rules, and thereby your authority to use this device.

Limitation of Liability

The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of Sierra Wireless. SIERRA WIRELESS AND ITS AFFILIATES
SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
GENERAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES INCLUDING,
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUE OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS OR
REVENUE ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE ANY SIERRA WIRELESS
PRODUCT, EVEN IF SIERRA WIRELESS AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR THEY ARE FORESEEABLE OR FOR CLAIMS BY ANY
THIRD PARTY. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall Sierra Wireless and/or its affiliates
aggregate liability arising under or in connection with the Sierra Wireless product, regardless of the
number of events, occurrences, or claims giving rise to liability, be in excess of the price paid by the
purchaser for the Sierra Wireless product.

Patents

This product may contain technology developed by or for Sierra Wireless Inc.

Copyright

©2012 Sierra Wireless. All rights reserved.

The information contained herein is proprietary to Sierra Wireless. No part of this document may be
translated, transcribed, reproduced, in any form, or by any means without prior written consent of
Sierra Wireless.

Trademarks

AirCard

®

is a registered trademark of Sierra Wireless. Sierra Wireless™, and the Sierra Wireless logo

are trademarks of Sierra Wireless. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Preface

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Save Our Environment

When this equipment has reached the end of its useful life, it must be taken to a recycling centre and
processed separately from domestic waste.

The cardboard box, the plastic contained in the packaging, and the parts that make up this device can
be recycled in accordance with regionally established regulations. Never dispose of this electronic
equipment along with your household waste. You may be subject to penalties or sanctions under the
law. Instead, ask for disposal instructions from your municipal government.

Please be responsible and protect our environment.

Transport and Handling

When transporting the AirCard Hub, it is recommended to return the product in the original packaging.
This ensures the product will not be damaged.

Note: Ensure the AirCard Hub is securely packaged with appropriate padding to prevent damage during courier
transport.

Contact Information

Sales Desk: Phone: [phone]

Hours:

8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time

E-mail:

[e-mail]

Post: Sierra Wireless

13811 Wireless Way
Richmond, BC
Canada V6V 3A4

Fax: [phone]

Web:

[e-mail]

Consult our website for up-to-date product descriptions, documentation, application notes, firmware
upgrades, troubleshooting tips, and press releases: www.sierrawireless.com.

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Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................... 11

Prerequisites ........................................................................................................................................ 11

Target Users ........................................................................................................................................ 11

Product Overview ................................................................................................................................. 11

Package Contents ................................................................................................................................ 12

Product Features .................................................................................................................................. 12

LED Indicators ...................................................................................................................................... 13

Interfaces.............................................................................................................................................. 14

Default Settings .................................................................................................................................... 15

Get Started ................................................................................................................. 17

Placement of your AirCard Hub ........................................................................................................... 17

Avoid Obstacles and Interference ........................................................................................................ 17

Cordless Phones .................................................................................................................................. 18

Choose the “Quietest” Channel for your Wireless Network ................................................................. 18

Hardware Installation ........................................................................................................................... 19

Connecting Wirelessly .......................................................................................................................... 20

Quick Wi-Fi Setup ................................................................................................................................ 20

Connecting via a Cable ........................................................................................................................ 20

Accessing Storage Devices ................................................................................................................. 21

Operating Modes ....................................................................................................... 23

Easy Mode ........................................................................................................................................... 24

Small Office / Home Office ................................................................................................................... 26

Power User........................................................................................................................................... 28

Login Tab ......................................................................................................................................... 29

Wireless Tab .................................................................................................................................... 30

LAN 1 / WAN Tab ............................................................................................................................. 31

Advanced Settings .................................................................................................... 35

Home .................................................................................................................................................... 35

Status ................................................................................................................................................... 35

Internet Settings ................................................................................................................................... 36

LAN Configuration ............................................................................................................................ 36

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WAN Configuration .......................................................................................................................... 38

Wireless LAN (WLAN) .......................................................................................................................... 40

Configuration .................................................................................................................................... 40

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) .......................................................................................................... 43

Services................................................................................................................................................ 44

Routing ............................................................................................................................................. 44

DDNS ............................................................................................................................................... 48

NTP .................................................................................................................................................. 49

System Monitor ................................................................................................................................ 50

System ................................................................................................................................................. 51

Log ................................................................................................................................................... 51

Settings ............................................................................................................................................ 52

Update Firmware .............................................................................................................................. 53

Administration .................................................................................................................................. 54

System Configuration ....................................................................................................................... 55

Logoff ............................................................................................................................................... 55

Reboot .............................................................................................................................................. 55

Specifications ............................................................................................................ 57

Technical Specifications ....................................................................................................................... 57

Mechanical Specifications .................................................................................................................... 58

FAQ ............................................................................................................................. 59

Regulatory Information ............................................................................................. 61

Regulatory Information for North America ........................................................................................... 61

Regulatory Information for EU countries .............................................................................................. 62

Regulatory Information for Australia .................................................................................................... 63

Contents

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List of Figures

Figure 1: AirCard Hub Homepage – Basic Status Page .......................................................................... 23

Figure 2: Easy mode – Status Tab .......................................................................................................... 24

Figure 3: Easy Mode – AirCard Hub Docked/Undocked Scenarios ........................................................ 25

Figure 4: SOHO Mode – Basic Status Page ............................................................................................ 26

Figure 5: SOHO Mode – AirCard Hub Docked/Undocked Scenarios ...................................................... 27

Figure 6: Power User – Basic Status Page .............................................................................................. 28

Figure 7: Power User – Login Tab ........................................................................................................... 29

Figure 8: Power User – Switch to Advanced View................................................................................... 29

Figure 9: Power User – Wireless Tab ...................................................................................................... 30

Figure 10: Advanced View - Status .......................................................................................................... 31

Figure 11: Power User - LAN1/WAN Tab ................................................................................................ 32

Figure 12: Power User Mode – AirCard Hub docked/undocked scenario ............................................... 33

Figure 13: Advanced View - LAN Settings ............................................................................................... 36

Figure 14: DHCP Settings ........................................................................................................................ 37

Figure 15: DHCP Settings – Address Reservation List ........................................................................... 37

Figure 16: WAN – STATIC (Fixed IP) Settings ........................................................................................ 38

Figure 17: WAN - DHCP Settings ............................................................................................................ 38

Figure 18: WAN – Fail-over Settings ....................................................................................................... 39

Figure 19: Advanced View – Wi-Fi Settings ............................................................................................. 40

Figure 20: Wi-Fi Security Settings - WPA1/WPA2 ................................................................................... 41

Figure 21: Wi-Fi Security Settings - WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK .................................................................... 42

Figure 22: Wi-Fi Security Settings - 802.1x .............................................................................................

42

Figure 23: Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) ................................................................................................. 43

Figure 24: Advanced Vie w - Wi-Fi Station List......................................................................................... 44

Figure 25: Static Route Settings .............................................................................................................. 44

Figure 26: RIP Settings ............................................................................................................................ 45

Figure 27: NAT Settings ........................................................................................................................... 46

Figure 28: Advanced View - DMZ Settings .............................................................................................. 47

Figure 29: DDNS Settings ........................................................................................................................ 48

Figure 30: NTP Settings ........................................................................................................................... 49

Figure 31: System Monitor Settings ......................................................................................................... 50

Figure 32: System Log ............................................................................................................................. 51

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Figure 33: Load / Save Configuration Page ............................................................................................. 52

Figure 34: Advanced View - Firmware Update ........................................................................................ 53

Figure 35: Administration Configuration Items ......................................................................................... 54

Figure 36: System Configuration Items .................................................................................................... 55

Figure 37: Logoff ...................................................................................................................................... 55

Figure 38: Reboot AirCard Hub ............................................................................................................... 55

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1: Introduction

This User Guide provides you all the information you need to set up, configure, and
use the AirCard® Hub.

Prerequisites

Before continuing with the installation of your AirCard Hub, please confirm that you
comply with the minimum system requirements listed below.



AirCard 76xS mobile hotspot activated on a 3G/4G network.



Device with a working Ethernet or wireless (802.11b/g/n) network adapter.



A Web browser such as Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, Mozilla
Firefox, Opera, Safari.

Target Users

The AirCard Hub provides 3 levels of operation modes that allow users access to
exactly the features they need. This User Guide is intended for users who prefer
single click, easy setup, as well as for advanced users who understand
telecommunications terminology and concepts.

Product Overview



3 x 10/100 LAN Ethernet port



1 x 10/100 LAN / WAN Ethernet port for optional alternate Internet
connectivity (ADSL/Cable/Satellite)



802.11n / 300 Mbps wireless

1

(backward compatible with 802.11b/g)



Browser-based interface for configuration and management



Wireless security options: WEP, WPA, WPA2



2 x USB ports for attaching USB storage devices to share with connected
clients

1

Speeds are dependent on network coverage. See your 3G/4G provider coverage maps for more

details. The total number of Wi-Fi users can also affect data speeds. Maximum wireless signal rate and
coverage values are derived from IEEE Standard 802.11g and 802.11n specifications. Actual wireless
speed and coverage are dependent on network and environmental conditions included but not limited to

volume of network traffic, building materials and construction/layout.

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Package Contents

The AirCard Hub package consists of:



AirCard Hub



12V/2A power supply



Two 3G/4G dipole antennas



Ethernet cable



Quick Start Guide

If any of these items are missing or damaged, please contact Sierra Wireless Support
immediately by visiting the Sierra Wireless Support website at:

www.sierrawireless.com/Support.

Product Features

The AirCard Hub creates a secure Wi-Fi network, providing Internet access for up to
16 users using the 3G/4G network. With quick and easy setup the AirCard Hub
provides a landline experience without the need for fixed line connections. Simply
plug the AirCard Hub into a power outlet, and then dock the AirCard mobile hotspot to
access a 3G/4G Internet connection within minutes.

The AirCard Hub incorporates a WLAN 802.11b/g/n access point, four 10/100 Mbps
Ethernet ports, with one able to act as a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet WAN port. Two USB
ports provide connectivity to attached USB storage for connected clients. The AirCard
Hub features the latest security options, such as WPA and WPA2 data encryption.

Introduction

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LED Indicators

The AirCard Hub is designed to be placed on a desk top. All of the cables exit from
the rear for better organization. The display (visible on the top of the AirCard Hub)
provides information about network activity and the device status. See below for an
explanation of each of the indicator lights.

Led Indicator Definition

Power Power status indicator:

Off = No Power
On = Power

WLAN Wi-Fi status indicat or :

Off = Wi-Fi O ff
Solid = Wi-Fi On, no traffic
Flash = Wi-Fi On, data traffic

WWAN Internet WAN indicator:

Off = No Internet connection
Solid = Internet connec ted, no traffic
Flash = Internet connected, data traffic

LAN1 / WAN LAN1/WAN Port connection status indicator s :

Off = No cable connection
Solid = Cable connection established
Flash = Data traffic

LAN2
LAN3
LAN4

LAN 2-4 Port connection status indicators:
Off = No cable connection
Solid = Cable connection established
Flash = Data traffic

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Interfaces

The following interfaces are available on the rear panel of the AirCard Hub:

Interface Function

3G/4G antenna connectors Attach external 3G/4G antennas

LAN 1 / WAN

LAN or WAN port for wired Ethernet clients or bridged
devices (for example, ADSL modem)

LAN 2 - 4

LAN Port for wired Ethernet clients (computers, laptops,
etc.)

USB ports

Connect a USB storage device to share content with
connected clients

Power connector Connects to a DC 12V/2A power adapter

Reset

Hold this button down for over 12 seconds to reset to
factory defaults

Introduction

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Default Settings

The following tables list the default settings for the AirCard Hub. Note that these
default settings may change, once the AirCard mobile hotspot is docked in.

LAN (Management)

Easy mode

Small Home / Office
mode

Power User mode

Static IP Address 192.168.1.254 192.168.2.1 192.168.2.1
Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0 255.255.255.0 255.255.255.0
Default Gateway 192.168.1.1 192.168.2.1 192.168.2.1

Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi)

SSID (AirCard Hub)

Displayed on AirCard mobile
hotspot’s LCD screen.

Security Key (AirCard Hub)

Web interface access (Power User mode only)

Username admin
Password admin

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2: Get Started

Placement of your AirCard Hub

Just like your mobile phone, the AirCard Hub’s location will affect its signal strength to
the 3G/4G base station (cell tower). The data speed achievable from the AirCard Hub
is dependent on this signal strength, which is affected by many environmental factors.
When choosing a location for your AirCard Hub, keep in mind that the AirCard Hub
needs adequate signal strength to provide Internet connectivity.

Similarly, the wireless connection between your AirCard Hub and your Wi-Fi devices
is stronger the closer your devices are to your AirCard Hub. Your wireless connection
and performance will degrade as the distance between your AirCard Hub and devices
increases. This may or may not be directly noticeable, and is greatly affected by the
individual installation environment.

If you have concerns about your network’s performance that might be related to
range or obstruction factors, try moving the devices to a position between three to five
meters from the AirCard Hub to see if distance is the problem.

If you experience difficulties connecting wirelessly between your Wi-Fi devices and
your AirCard Hub, try the following steps:



In multi-story homes, place the AirCard Hub on a floor that is as close to the
centre of the home as possible. This may mean placing the AirCard Hub on
an upper floor.



Avoid placing the AirCard Hub near a cordless telephone that operates at the
same radio frequency as the AirCard Hub (2.3 GHz / 4 GHz).

Avoid Obstacles and Interference

Avoid placing your AirCard Hub near devices that may emit radio “noise,” such as
microwave ovens. Dense objects that can inhibit wireless communication include:



Refrigerators



Washers and dryers



Metal cabinets



Large aquariums



Metallic-based, UV-tinted windows

Note: While some of the items listed above can affect network performance, they will not
prohibit your wireless network from functioning; if you are concerned that your network is
not operating at its maximum effectiveness avoid placing your AirCard Hub near the devices
listed. Please ensure that your AirCard Hub’s 3G/4G external antenna is positioned vertically
(toward the ceiling).

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If your wireless signal seems weak in some spots, make sure that objects such as
those listed above are not blocking the signal’s path (between your devices and the
AirCard Hub).

Cordless Phones

If the performance of your wireless network is impaired after considering the above
issues, and you have a cordless phone:



Try moving cordless phones away from your AirCard Hub and your wireless­enabled computers.



Unplug and remove the battery from any cordless phone that operates on the

2.3 GHz / 4 GHz band (check manufacturer’s information). If this fixes the
problem, your phone may be interfering with the AirCard Hub.



If your phone supports channel selection, change the channel on the phone
to the farthest channel from your wireless network. For example, change the
phone to channel 1 and move your AirCard Hub to channel 11. See your
phone’s user manual for detailed instructions. If necessary, consider
switching to a 900 MHz or 5 GHz cordless phone.

Choose the “Quietest” Channel for your
Wireless Network

In locations where homes or offices are close together, such as apartment buildings
or office complexes, there may be wireless networks nearby that can conflict with
your wireless network. Use the Site Survey capabilities found in the software provided
with your wireless adapter to locate any other wireless networks that are available
(see your wireless adapter’s user manual), and switch your AirCard Hub and
computers to a channel as far away from other networks as possible. Refer to section
Wireless LAN (WLAN) on page 40.

Experiment with more than one of the available channels, to find the clearest
connection and to avoid interference from neighbouring cordless phones or other
wireless devices.

Get Started

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Hardware Installation

1. Attach the supplied antennas to the ports marked “3G/4G ANTENNA”. [Attach in

a clockwise direction, as shown by the red arrow in the photo below.]

2. Turn the metal part to screw in the antenna until it tightens, then hold the metal

part while turning the antenna to a vertical position.

3. Connect the power adapter to the POWER socket on the back of the AirCard

Hub. Plug the power adapter into the wall socket. The WLAN and WWAN LEDs
blink for approximately 30 seconds while the AirCard Hub boots up.

4. Follow the instructions provided with your AirCard mobile hotspot to connect to

the Internet. Then dock the AirCard mobile hotspot into the AirCard Hub.

You are ready to use the AirCard Hub!

Note: Without the AirCard mobile hotspot, the AirCard Hub is not functional out of the box.

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Connecting Wirelessly

1. Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled on your device (for example,

computer/laptop/smartphone/printer/camera).

2. Open the wireless network manager on your device and connect to the network

name shown on the LCD screen of your AirCard mobile hotspot.

3. When prompted for your wireless security settings, enter the Security Key shown

on the LCD screen of the AirCard mobile hotspot.

4. Wait approximately 30 seconds for the connection to establish.

After the setup process is completed, you will be connected to the Internet.
You can connect up to 16 Wi-Fi devices to your AirCard Hub.

Quick Wi-Fi Setup

Quick Wi-Fi Setup allows users to quickly connect to a Wi-Fi network without the use
of a keyboard. This is sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). The
feature is available on many more recent products such as cameras, printers, smart
phones, and laptops.

1. Press the WPS button on your AirCard mobile hotspot docked in the AirCard

Hub until the WLAN LED on the AirCard Hub starts flashing.

2. Within 2 minutes press the WPS button on the wireless device you want to

connect or select the WPS-related option in the device’s software.

The AirCard Hub and your wireless device will communicate and establish the
connection.

Connecting via a Cable

1. Connect the provided Ethernet cable to the port marked LAN1/WAN, LAN 2,

LAN3 or LAN4 at the back of the AirCard Hub.

2. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your computer.

3. Wait approximately 30 seconds for the connection to establish.

After the setup process is completed, you will be connected to the Internet.
You can connect up to 4 devices via Ethernet cable to the ports marked LAN1/WAN

or LAN 2-4.