Viola Systems Arctic User Manual

Arctic User’s Manual

Arctic GPRS Router (2270)

Version 1.5.7

June 2008

User’s Manual

Arctic GPRS Router 2 Viola Systems Ltd.

Copyright and Trademark

Copyright  2004-2008, Viola Systems Ltd. All rights to this manual are owned solely by Viola
Systems Ltd. (referred elsewhere in this User’s Manual as Viola Systems). All rights reserved. No part
of this manual may be transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means without a prior written
permission from Viola Systems.

Ethernet™ is a trademark of XEROX Corporation. Windows™ and Internet Explorer™ are trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation. Netscape™ is a trademark of Netscape Communications Corporation. All
other product names mentioned in this manual are the property of their respective owners, whose
rights regarding the trademarks are acknowledged.

Viola Systems Ltd.

Lemminkäisenkatu 14-18 B
FIN-20520 Turku
Finland

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.violasystems.com

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Arctic GPRS Router 3 Viola Systems Ltd.

Disclaimer and Revisions

Viola Systems reserves the right to change the technical specifications or functions of its products or
to discontinue the manufacture of any of its products or to discontinue the support of any of its
products without any written announcement and urges its customers to ensure that the information at
their disposal is valid.

Viola software and programs are delivered “as is”. The manufacturer does not grant any kind of
warranty including guarantees on suitability and applicability to a certain application. Under no
circumstance is the manufacturer or the developer of a program responsible for any damage possibly
caused by the use of a program. The names of the programs as well as all copyrights relating to the
programs are the sole property of Viola Systems. Any transfer, licensing to a third party, leasing,
renting, transportation, copying, editing, translating, modifying into another programming language or
reverse engineering for any intent is forbidden without the written consent of Viola Systems.

Viola Systems has attempted to verify that the information in this manual is correct with regard to the
state of products and software on the publication date of the manual. We assume no responsibility for
possible errors which may appear in this manual. Information in this manual may change without prior
notice from Viola Systems.

Revision History:

01/2004 Manual released, Version 1.0
06/2004 Minor modifications and HW update, Version 1.1
10/2005 General text related corrections / Chapter 5 - Firewall rewritten Version 1.4
06/2008 Firmware 5.0.7 updated, manual version 1.5

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Arctic GPRS Router 4 Viola Systems Ltd.

Declaration of Conformity

(according to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014)

Manufacturer’s Name:

Viola Systems Ltd.

Manufacturer’s Address:

Lemminkäisenkatu 14-18 B
FIN-20520 Turku
Finland

declares that this product:

Product Name:

Arctic GPRS Router

conforms to the following standards:

EMC:

EN 55022 Emission Test (Class A)

1. Radiated Emissions (30-1000MHz)

2. Conducted Emissions (0.15-30MHz)

EN 50082-1 Immunity Test

1. IEC 801-3: Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field

2. IEC 801-2: Electrostatic Discharge

3. IEC 801-4: Fast Transients, AC Power Ports and Signal cables

Supplementary Information:

“The product complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and
EMC directive 89/336/EEC.”

Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio
Interference which may make it necessary for the user to take adequate measures.

Manufacturer’s Contact Information:

Viola Systems Ltd.
Lemminkäisenkatu 14-18 B
FIN-20520 Turku
Finland
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

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Arctic GPRS Router 5 Viola Systems Ltd.

Warranty and Safety Instructions

Read these safety instructions carefully before using the products mentioned in this manual:

Warranty will be void if the product is used in any way in contradiction with the instructions given in
this manual or if the product has been tampered with.

The devices mentioned in this manual are to be used only according to the instructions described in
this manual. Faultless and safe operation of the devices can be guaranteed only if the transport,
storage, operation and handling of the devices is appropriate. This also applies to the maintenance of
the products.

To prevent damage both the product and any terminal devices must always be switched OFF before
connecting or disconnecting any cables. It should be ascertained that different devices used have the
same ground potential. Before connecting any power cables the output voltage of the power supply
should be checked.

This product is not fault-tolerant and is not designed, manufactured or intended for use or resale as
on-line control equipment or as part of such equipment in any hazardous environment requiring fail­safe performance, such as in the operation of nuclear facilities, aircraft navigation or communication
systems, air traffic control, direct life support machines, or weapons systems, in which the failure of
Viola Systems manufactured hardware or software could lead directly to death, personal injury, or
severe physical or environmental damage.

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Arctic GPRS Router 6 Viola Systems Ltd.

Contents

Copyright and Trademark .......................................................................................................................2

Disclaimer and Revisions........................................................................................................................3

Declaration of Conformity........................................................................................................................ 4

Warranty and Safety Instructions............................................................................................................ 5

Contents.................................................................................................................................................. 6

1. Introduction .........................................................................................................................................7

About this User’s Manual ...........................................................................................................7

The Arctic Platform..................................................................................................................... 8

2. Physical Interfaces .............................................................................................................................. 9

Front Panel Description..............................................................................................................9

Side Panel Description............................................................................................................. 11

Back Panel Description ............................................................................................................ 12

Product Information Label........................................................................................................ 13

Firmware Version ..................................................................................................................... 13

3. Getting Started .................................................................................................................................. 14

Unpacking the Arctic ................................................................................................................ 14

Installation of the Arctic............................................................................................................ 14

Setting of the IP Address Using a Console.............................................................................. 15

Setting of the IP Address Using an HTML Browser................................................................. 17

4. Arctic Configurator Tool ....................................................................................................................19

Login to Arctic Configurator .....................................................................................................19

General Usage of the Arctic Configurator ................................................................................ 19

5. Arctic Software Configuration ...........................................................................................................21

System Menu ........................................................................................................................... 21

Network Menu .......................................................................................................................... 21

Firewall Menu...........................................................................................................................29

Service Menu ........................................................................................................................... 30

Tools Menu ..............................................................................................................................32

Console ....................................................................................................................................32

System Log and Recent events ............................................................................................... 32

Modem info ..............................................................................................................................32

Send SMS ................................................................................................................................ 32

Default Settings........................................................................................................................32

7. GPRS ................................................................................................................................................33

Placing Arctic GPRS ................................................................................................................33

GPRS Antenna......................................................................................................................... 33

SIM Card and Card Holder ......................................................................................................34

Configuring Arctic GPRS Settings ...........................................................................................34

Useful GSM/GPRS Information ...............................................................................................35

Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................................36

Common Problems ..................................................................................................................36

Technical Specifications........................................................................................................................ 37

Limited Warranty ................................................................................................................................... 38

Coverage.................................................................................................................................. 38

Excluded Products and Problems............................................................................................38

Remedies ................................................................................................................................. 38

Obtaining Warranty Service ..................................................................................................... 38

Technical Support ................................................................................................................................. 39

Contacting Technical Support.................................................................................................. 39

Recording Arctic Information....................................................................................................39

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Arctic GPRS Router 7 Viola Systems Ltd.

1. Introduction

Viola Arctic product family offers industrial quality connectivity devices for custom-built wireless and
wired device management solutions.

About this User’s Manual

This User’s Manual describes the operation of the Arctic GPRS Router. All devices in this User’s
Manual are referred to as Arctic, unless otherwise mentioned. This manual provides introductory
information as well as detailed instructions on how to set up and manage the Arctic as part of a
network environment. It is intended for anyone involved in installing and managing Arctic devices. It is
assumed that the reader of this manual is familiar with basic working principles of Internet technology.

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Arctic GPRS Router 8 Viola Systems Ltd.

The Arctic Platform

The Arctic platform utilizes a number of wireless or fixed line interfaces depending on your specific
requirements. Arctic is a customizable technology allowing users to develop solutions for their own
applications. Arctic devices have been designed to withstand the requirements of extreme
environments and industrial use.

Technical Features Summary

The following table shows the functional components in the Arctic GPRS Router device. Details of
each component are also listed below.

HARDWARE
CPU Platform:

• 32-bit RISC microcontroller

• 32 MB RAM

• 8 MB Solid state FLASH memory

• Hardware Watchdog

Network Interface

• 10/100 Base-T Ethernet (RJ45)

Device Interface

• 1 Serial ports (RS-232, 19200 8N1)

Mechanics

• Aluminum frame

• Attachment rail for optional and custom

mounting tools

SOFTWARE
Operating System

• Multitasking embedded µCLinux

Supported Protocols

• PPP, IP, ICMP, UDP, TCP, ARP, DNS,

DHCP, FTP, TFTP, HTTP

Application Services

• HTTP server, CGI

• FTP client

• Telnet server

• SSH server and client

• Temperature sensor

• Real Time Clock

• Syslog

• DHCP server and client

• Status querying using SMS

Management and Configuration:

• Web user interface

• Console port

• Telnet

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2. Physical Interfaces

Depending on the model, the Arctic
unit contains two or three panels for
interface connections and status
indication. These panels are:

1. Front panel. An example of a
typical configuration is shown in
the top figure. This panel
includes all connectors and
switches for the device
operation, optional input/output
connectors and the connectors
for network and serial interface.

2. Back panel. The GPRS antenna
connector and SIM card holder
are shown in bottom figure.

3. Side panel. The side panel
contains all LEDs which indicate
the status of the device.

Front Panel Description

The front panel of the Arctic GPRS Router consists of the following connectors and switches:

1. Power supply connector

2. Power switch

3. Console serial port (RS1)

4. Ethernet

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The Arctic has rails to enable wall or rack mounting. The front panel contains slots for nuts or other
mounting accessories (optional) in order to gain access to these rails.

Power Supply Connector

The Arctic has a 10 – 26 VDC power supply connector shown below:

12

Pin 1 is positive (+)
Pin 2 is negative (–)

The unit is protected against reversed polarity.

Power Switch

Enables or disables the operation of the Arctic.

Serial Port (RS-232 console)

Arctic has one serial port connector. This is 9-pin male connectors (DB9). A null modem cable may be
used to connect the Arctic to a PC (19200 8N1, no handshaking). The figure of Arctic’s DB9 (DTE)
Male connector is shown below:

1

5

6

9

The serial port 1 is a full RS-232 -port. The pin description of this port is as follows:

Pin
Number

Name Direction Explanation

1 DCD IN Data Carrier Detect

2 RXD IN Received Data

3 TXD OUT Transmitted Data

4 DTR OUT Data Terminal Ready. Handshake output

5 GND - Signal ground.

6 DSR IN Data Set Ready. Handshake input

7 RTS OUT Ready To Send. Handshake output

8 CTS IN Clear To Send. Handshake input

9 RI IN Ring Indicator

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Ethernet Connector

Arctic has an RJ45 connector for 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connection. Maximum length of the Ethernet
cable is 100m.

The figure and pin description of the Arctic’s RJ45 Ethernet connector is as follows:

Pin
Number

Name Direction Explanation

1 Rx+ IN Data Receive Positive
2 Rx– IN Data Receive Negative
3 Tx+ OUT Data Transmit Positive
4 NC
5 NC
6 Tx– OUT Data Transmit Negative
7 NC

18

8 NC

Side Panel Description

The side panel of the device contains all LEDs which are used to indicate the status of the Arctic. The
LEDs are numbered from 1 to 10 starting from the rear panel side. A detailed description of each LED
is listed below:

LED
number

LED Name LEDs state Description

1 Battery Error Backup battery status (optional)

2 Status

3 Power/Error Green Power switched ON
Not lit No power
Red
4 Function Green, Blinking Watchdog operation OK

5 Collision Off Normal operation
Green, Blinking Network collision
6 Activity Steady On Operation voltage connected
Green, Blinking Packets received from the

network

7 ---red/green1

8 ---red/green 2

9 ---red/green 3

10 GPRS Off No GPRS/GSM traffic
Green, blinking GPRS traffic
Red, blinking

Note: The cross-connected cable is only for connecting the Arctic to the PC’s network interface

card. When connecting to a local network (e.g. hub or switch), a direct Ethernet cable must be
used.

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Back Panel Description

The Arctic GPRS Router has an antenna connector and a slot for a SIM card on the back panel.

1. FME connector for an antenna.

2. SIM Card slot.

Note: It is recommended NOT to insert or remove the SIM card while the GPRS module is in

operation. The SIM card contents may become corrupted if the card is removed while the
GPRS module is writing data to it.

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Product Information Label

The product information label on the underside of the Arctic contains the following information:

1. Product type

2. Serial number

3. MAC address.

The Ethernet address (MAC address) of the unit is printed on the product label (see below). Each
address code starts with the digits “00:06:70”, but the remaining six digits are unique for each unit.

Firmware Version

The Arctic firmware version may be checked from the Viola Configurator startup page. (System Æ
Information). It is also possible to get the firmware version by issuing command firmware in console.

This manual describes the series 5 firmware version GPRS Router 5.0.7.

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3. Getting Started

Unpacking the Arctic

Arctic is delivered in a bulk package containing only the device itself (with possible internal options).

A separate Arctic Accessory Kit (ordered separately) contains the following items:

• Power supply and cable

• Cross-over Ethernet Cable

• Null modem cable.

If any of the items are missing or are damaged, please contact Viola Systems Ltd. All packaging
materials are recyclable. Viola Systems urges its customers to follow environmental regulations
regarding the disposal of all materials.

Installation of the Arctic

The Arctic can be installed horizontally on a flat surface e.g. on a desk or a rack.

When installing Arctic models with wireless connectivity options it should be remembered that high­frequency radio waves need to be taken into account. The surrounding environment affects the range
of radio signals. Therefore, if you are using an Arctic with antennas directly mounted to the antenna
connector, try to avoid placing the Arctic where the radio signal might be disturbed (“shadowed”) by
nearby obstacles. Also large metallic surfaces (racks) may have a highly detrimental effect on the
antenna performance. In case of metal racks or surfaces it is recommended to use an external
antenna with an appropriately selected cable. By following these precautions the Arctic may be
installed more freely.

The aluminum case of the Arctic contains rails for wall mounting. Both broad sides contain two rails
and the narrow side opposite to the LED panel contains one rail. These rails allow a flexible selection
of the optimum mounting direction. To mount the Arctic on a wall using optionally available mounting
tools can be used.

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Setting of the IP Address Using a Console

Before installation you need to find out the required network settings. These include the IP Address,
Netmask and Gateway Settings used by the Arctic. The local network administrator can provide

them to you or you can ask for them from your Internet Service Provider.

1. Before beginning, turn off the power from all devices and check that the power switch of the
Arctic is in the “OFF” position.

2. Connect a serial cable (crossover) to the console serial port (RS1) and an Ethernet cable to
the RJ45 connector.

3. Switch the Arctic on by toggling the power switch to “ON” position

4. Connect to Arctic using COM port and terminal program (Hyperterminal). Serial settings for
console (RS1) are 19200-8-N-1 and none handshaking”.

5. Stop the PPCboot to get the “Arctic>” command prompt. Set the IP address and netmask
using command “setenv”

Note: If possible, it is recommended to use an HTML browser to set up network settings as

described in the next chapter. If using a console, please follow the procedure below:

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6. Save the setting with command “saveenv”.

7. Reboot the Arctic for the settings to take effect

Note: Default gateway value (gatewayip) is usually set to zero (0) because GPRS or VPN is

used as default router.

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Setting of the IP Address Using an HTML Browser

This is the recommendable way to set up the network parameters. It is an easy-to-apply solution if the
computer used for configuration has been properly configured. Follow the procedure listed below:

1. Connect to the Arctic using your HTML browser. The default IP address of the Arctic is
“10.10.10.10” (netmask “255.0.0.0”).

Computer connected to Viola Arctic device can use for example IP address 10.10.10.11

2. From the initial page click Start Configurator and enter login information in the following page.
Username is root and by default no password is set (just leave the field empty).

3. Navigate to Network Æ Ethernet page

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4. Enter the Ethernet IP address (and other network settings) of your choice and click Apply and then
Commit (on bottom of page) to store the settings.

5. Reboot the Arctic for the settings to take effect.

Note: Arctic default password is empty. Remember to set the password before connecting the Arctic

device to a public network (Chapter 5).

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4. Arctic Configurator Tool

The Arctic Configurator is a tool which allows the user to manage the properties of the Arctic device
by using a user-friendly, www-based interface. You only need a computer with an HTML browser and
a working connection to the Arctic to be able to use the web configurator.

With the Arctic Configurator you can set important parameters, receive status information, and set
variables that control which applications and processes run on the Arctic board.

Login to Arctic Configurator

To start using the Arctic Configurator, just open the URL in which the Arctic which you want to
configure is located. On the Viola Arctic main page, select the Start Configurator link.

First, the Arctic Configurator will ask you for the password for the Arctic device root-account. Enter the
correct password in the box provided and press the login-button to start the Arctic Configurator.

General Usage of the Arctic Configurator

After a successful login, the Arctic Configurator will display the main screen. This consists of the main
navigation menu on the top, the secondary navigation bar on the left, and the main screen containing
the currently active content and controls.

When first starting the program, the System/Information screen will be shown in the main content
area. The main navigation-menu on the top of the screen is used to navigate between the different
subsets of settings available. Selecting an item from the main menu will display the available items

Note: Default password for root is empty. Remember to set the password before connecting the

device to a public network. Password can be changed from SystemÆ Password menu
(Chapter 5)

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related to this subset in the secondary navigation bar, selecting the first of these to be shown in the
main content area.

The secondary navigation-bar on the left contains the groups of parameters in this subset. Selecting
an item from this menu will display the content related to the selected group in the main content area.
In the bottom of the secondary navigation-bar is a group of three buttons which are always visible:
Commit , Reboot , and Logout. The Commit-button is used to save the memory-resident data for "soft"
parameters permanently to disk. Note that the values for the previous parameters are not saved to
disk unless the Commit-button is pressed. The Reboot-button, as the name suggests, will reboot the
Arctic. The Logout button will end the current session and return to the login-screen.

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5. Arctic Software Configuration

System Menu

The System-menu contains items that are relevant to the Arctic board itself. It allows the user to view
information about the system or the current executing environment and to set the date and time.

Information – submenu contains general information about the Arctic device. Information on this
submenu should be provided if possible when contacting Viola Systems technical support.

Time – submenu contains time information. Arctic has a real time clock with battery backup and time
information may be adjusted here.

Environment – submenu contains information about the Arctic device memory usage, uptime and
inside temperature.

Password – submenu contains password changing. The default password is blank. When changing
the password for the first time, the same password has to be written in all three boxes.

Network Menu

Through the Network-menu you can access sub items to control the various network interface
properties. The menu contains items for Ethernet, VPN and GPRS interfaces. Also Email, Proxy and
firewall settings are located in this submenu. Summary page shows which interfaces are up and also
routing information:

Note: Updated time data won’t be saved permanently until the Commit button is pressed. Until

then, it will be stored only in RAM memory.

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Ethernet

Configuration for the Arctic Ethernet Interface:

Override Ethernet configuration by DHCP – If this parameter is Enabled Arctic gets the IP
address and other related information from a local DHCP server. When enabled, all other
settings are disabled on this page.

Host name – Sets the Arctic device hostname. This is important to set up correctly when
using a Viola M2M Gateway and VPN. Every Arctic connected Viola M2M Gateway must
have unique hostname.

Domain name – Domain name for name resolution (optional)

Ethernet IP address – IP address used by eth0 interface.

Network mask – Network mask used by eth0 interface

Use Ethernet as default route – Set this to “Yes” only when using Ethernet as default

gateway/router. This parameter overrides next parameter “Default Route IP Address”, so as
long this parameter is set to no, next parameter has no affect. Usually this is set to “No”,
because either GPRS on VPN is used as default route.

Default Router IP address – Default router (or default gateway) used when the direct route
to host or network is not know. This parameter applies to eth0 interface only. When GPRS or
VPN is used as default gateway this parameter has to be set to 0.

MTU - MTU for Ethernet interface (usually 1500).

DNS servers (optional) - Name server IP (DSN) address for resolving host names to IP

address and vice versa. Applicable when GPRS parameter “DNS servers” is set to “User
defined”.

GPRS

GPRS settings include APN and other settings for GPRS network connectivity. More details of
GPRS connectivity is in Chapter 7.

GPRS enabled – When set to yes, GPRS interface is automatically attached to GPRS
network.

Access Point Name (GPRS) – GPRS Access Point (APN) name where the connection is
made.

PIN code– SIM card pin code.

DNS servers– When set to “User defined”, DNS servers from Ethernet page are used. If the

parameter is set to “From GPRS network” Arctic receives DNS server IPs automatically from
GPRS network.

Led indication – In Data only mode GPRS LED blinks green when transmitting data. In
Informative mode LED blinks also when connected to GPRS network without data transfer
(GPRS context is active).

GPRS username – Username used for authentication if APN requires it.

GPRS password – Password used for authentication if APN requires it.

PPP idle timeout – Maximum idle time for GPRS interface. If the GPRS interface has been

idle (no traffic) for this period, the GPRS connection is restarted.

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Maximum MTU value – MTU (Maximum transfer unit) for GPRS.

Use GPRS as default route – If enabled, GPRS is used as default route. Ethernet default

gateway has to disabled (Parameter “Use Ethernet as default route” set to “No” in Network Æ
Ethernet)

Dial-in

Configuration for the Arctic PPP dial-in Interface.

Dial-in enabled – When enabled, PPP connections can be made to Arctic (GSM data).

Require authentication (PAP) When set to yes password authentication is used for incoming
data calls.

Required username – PAP username allowed login.

Required password – PAP password used for authentication.

Idle timeout – Idle time before PPP connection is terminated.

Local IP address – IP address used in PPP peer.

Peer's IP address – IP address used in PPP peer.

Maximum MTU value – MTU (Maximum transfer unit) for Dial-in connections.

SSH-VPN

Arctic has a VPN client that can be used with the Viola M2M Gateway. For VPN configuration,
please refer to the Viola M2M Gateway User’s Manual.

Primary server

Use SSH-VPN? - When set to "Yes" Arctic automatically establishes SSH-VPN connection to

primary Viola M2M Gateway.

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Primary interface - Interface used to reach the Viola M2M Gateway server

Primary server IP - IP address of Viola M2M Gateway SSH-VPN server

Primary server port - SSH-VPN TCP port on primary server (default 22)

Primary server GW - If other gateway than default route is needed to reach the Viola

M2M Gateway

Max duration (0=unlimited) - Maximum duration of the VPN connection. On primary
server, should be set to zero. With backup server, after this timeout, the primary server
is tried again.

Connection start timeout (sec) - Time to wait for the connection
establishment

Connection retry interval (sec) - How often retry the connection

Connection retry mode - incremental increases the retry inteval on each connection

attempt. Constant delay uses the same delay always.

Hello interval (sec) - Hello packet interval for the VPN. This can be used as a
keepalive message on very critical links.

Hello failure limit - How many hello-packets can be lost before restarting the
connection

Backup server (optional)

Use backup SSH-VPN? – When set to “Yes”, Arctic will try to establish VPN

connection to backup Viola M2M Gateway, if the primary cannot be reached.

Primary failure limit - How many times primary must not be reached, before changing
to secondary.

Other parameters are same as in primary server. The duration of the connection can
be set for example to 3600 seconds, so after one hour connection time to backup
server the secondary is tried to be reached.

Routing

Routing mode – Routing mode has three modes:

1."Tunnel the following network" Æ This adds the “Remote network IP” to be reached
via the SSH-VPN. Parameters “Remote network IP” and “Remote network mask” must
be set.

2. "Default route" Æ VPN interface is used as default route.

3. “None” Æ No routing is added when the VPN is established. The VPN peer IPs can
be used for communications.

Remote network IP - Remote network IP behind the VPN (on Viola M2M Gateway
side) what is needed to reached by Arctic.

Remote network mask – Netmask for remote network IP.

Link management

MTU - MTU for SSH-VPN interface.

Idle timeout (sec) – Idle timeout for SSH-VPN interface. If idle timeout is reached, the

VPN connection is restarted.

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L2TP-VPN

Arctic has a L2TP client that can be used with L2TP server.

Use L2TP-VPN? - When set to "Yes", Arctic established L2TP VPN connection with primary
Viola M2M Gateway.

Primary server

Primary interface - Interface used to reach the Viola M2M Gateway server

Primary server IP - IP address of Viola M2M Gateway L2TP server

Primary server port - L2TP VPN server port (UDP, default 1701)

Primary server gateway - If other gateway than default route is needed to reach the

Viola M2M Gateway

Max duration (0=unlimited) - Maximum duration of the VPN connection. On primary
server, should be set to zero.

Hello interval (secs) - Hello interval for connection keepalive (default 20 seconds).

MTU - MTU for L2TP interface

L2TP username (usually hostname) - Username for authentication

L2TP password - L2TP password for authentication

Backup server

If the primary server cannot be reached, the L2TP VPN connection is established with
backup server.

Routing mode

It is used if routing is needed with L2TP interface. Configuration parameters are same
as in SSH-VPN

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GRE

GRE tunnel enabled - When set to "Yes", Arctic establish automatically GRE connection

Interface - Interface used to reach the GRE server

GRE server IP - IP address of GRE server

Gw to GRE server* (ethernet mode) - If other gateway than default route is needed to reach

the GRE server

Local GRE interface IP (usually eth0 IP) - Local IP used in GRE tunnel

Remote GRE interface IP* - Remote IP used in GRE tunnel

TTL value - Time-to-live value for the interface

Checksum* - checksum value

Incoming key* - authentication key

Outgoing key* - Outgoing key for the server

Routing

Routing mode – same as in SSH-VPN and L2TP
Remote network* - same as in SSH-VPN and L2TP
Remote network mask* - same as in SSH-VPN and L2TP

* these are optional, please refer to your GRE server documentation

Monitor

Monitor is used for GPRS and VPN connection checking. If connection to the selected IP
address is lost, the connection is restarted. Monitor uses ICMP echo (ping) packets to check
the connection. The monitor also keeps the connection alive, so that idle timeout do not drop
the connections.

ICMP Echo sending – Selects if the monitor is enabled. This should be always enabled to
correct IP.

Interval (sec) – Determines how often the connection is checked by sending ICMP echo
packets. The interval should be smaller than GPRS idle timeout (typically max. 2/3 of GPRS
idle timeout) in order to have uninterrupted communication.

Reply timeout (secs) – The waiting time for reply packets.

Retries timeout (secs) – The number of tries before connections are restarted.

Target IP address – The host IP address to which echo packets are sent to.

Secondary target IP address – The secondary host IP address to which ICMP echo packets

are to be sent if the sending to primary target host IP address fails.

Note: Monitor must be always enabled. When VPN is used, remote VPN peer IP (or other IP

reached only via VPN) must be used for connection checking

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Routing

These parameters are used to configure routing settings:

Act as router – Enables IP forwarding between interfaces.

Use Proxy ARP – Enables proxy ARP. May be used with Viola M2M Gateway VPN.

Static routes can be added, if some hosts or networks require static routing settings.

S-NAT

These parameters are used to configure S-NAT (source network address translation) settings.
When enabled, private IP address used in local LAN is changed to GPRS interface IP
address.

From IP – Only S-NAT connections from the defined IP address are accepted. If defined with
wildcard (0/0), all IP addresses are handled the same way (only S-NAT connections are
allowed).

D-NAT

These parameters are used to configure D-NAT (destination network address translation)
settings. When enabled, packets coming to defined GPRS interface port are forwarded to
local IP address.

Source IP – D-NAT only connections coming from IP. Wildcard 0/0 means all IP addresses
are D-NATted.

Protocol – Chooses which protocol is port forwarded. If “ANY” is chosen, other parametes
are disregarded.

Dest.port – Chooses which GPRS interface is port forwarded to local Ethernet.

Redirect to IP – Chooses where port forwarding is done to.

Redir. port – Chooses which port port forwarding goes to.

DNS Update

These parameters are used to configure dynamic DNS. Arctic can report it’s dynamic IP
address to a DNS server. The DNS Update settings are RFC2136 compliant, for example
BIND DNS server.

The server pointed by parameter “Authoritative names server” (eg. company’s own DNS
server, for example ISC BIND) must be configured to accept incoming DNS update
messages. TSIG keys can be used for better security in DNS updates

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DynDNS

This feature can be used with DynDNS service available at http://www.dyndns.org.
Note that public IP is required for GPRS and user account from the DynDNS service
operator.

NTP Client

This feature may be used to update the real time clock of Artic using NTP protocol.

NTP server - When set to "Yes", Arctic updates system clock from NTP server

Query interval - How ofter NTP query is sent

Minimum time difference (seconds) - Minimal time difference, when the clock is updated

Maximum time difference - Maximum time difference between local system time and NTP

time, when the clock is updated

Time adjust mode - Adds or subsracts time from the received NTP value

Time adjust value (minutes) - value to add or substract from NTP value

SMS Config

This feature may be used to monitor the Artic status and to issue simple commands remotely
via SMS messages. For detailed information, refer to “SMS Config Application Note”.

Enabled - Selects whether the SMS Config function is enabled or disabled.

Get commands

Access - Are get commands allowed for everybody, only for defined phone or are

these disabled.

Allowed phone - Defined phone number for get commands

Require password - Require system password for get commands

Set commands

Access - Are set commands allowed for everybody, only for defined phone or are

these disabled.

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Allowed phone - Defined phone number for set commands

Require password - Require system password for set commands

Allow execute commands - Allow execute commands to be run on Arctic

Other

Reply error to unknown commands - If set to "No", incorrect commands are silently

disregarded. If set to "Yes", Arctic will send error SMS

Reply error to unauthorized commands - If set to "No", unauthorized command are
also silently disregarded. If set to "Yes", Arctic will send error SMS

Factory reset command (8 chars min) - Command to issue device back to factory
settings. This does not require system password. After issuing this SMS command,
Arctic will have factory settings (eg. password is set back to factory default also)

Firewall Menu

Through the Firewall-menu you can configure built-in firewall of the Arctic. Firewall can be
disabled or enabled and separate rules may be created for GPRS to Arctic, GRPS to LAN
and LAN to GPRS.

The firewall rules are processed from top to bottom. If strict rules are wanted, last rule should
be DROP.

The parameter “From IP” can be used for limiting access based on IP address. For example
“192.168.100.0/24” would limit access only packets coming from 192.168.100.0 network.

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These rules would allow incoming connection to GPRS interface: ICMP, web (TCP port 80)
and telnet (TCP port 22) from any IP access.

Service Menu

WWW

These settings enable or disable the web server functionality.

Web Server – Disables or enables the www server.
Web Configuration Access - Disables or enables web configuration access.

Telnet

Telnet server may be used to make terminal connections to the Arctic device shell. A more
secure way of performing remote management is based on the SSH.

Telnet server- Enables or disables the telnet server.

DHCP Server

DHCP server listens to broadcast DHCP queries and assigns IP address for host from the
configured pool. If needed, Arctic can act as a DHCP server. This is suitable for small remote
networks that have for example few laptops connected to the Arctic via an Ethernet hub or a
switch.

DHCP Server – Enables or disables the DHCP server.

Note: If you disable the web access settings, web configurator stops functioning and you will have

to enable it via console if you should need to use it again later.

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DNS Proxy

With DNS proxy, computers connected to Arctic Ethernet interface can use Arctic as DNS
server. Arctic will forward DNS queries to correct DSN server and local computers DNS
setting are not needed to be changed. This can be used with GPRS settings (Network
ÆGPRS) parameter “DNS servers: From GPRS network”.

DNS Proxy/Forwarder – When set to ”Enabled” Arctic can be used as DNS server for local
computers

SNMP Agent

Arctic supports MIB-II SNMP Agent.

SNMP agent (SNMP Set/Get) - Set SNMP agent enabled or disabled
Read only SNMP community - read only community string
Read and write SNMP community - rw snmp community
Server port (standard=161) - Agent listen port (UDP)
Bind to interface - What interface is used as source address

Note: Configuring the DHCP server in an erroneous way may cause your network to function badly

or may prevent functioning altogether. Consult your network administrator for necessary
information before setting up the service.

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Tools Menu

The Tools menu provides the access to web based tools used for troubleshooting with the Arctic. It is
possible to execute simple shell commands through the Web console. Also GPRS information can be
obtained from “Modem Info” menu.

Console

Console can be used for running command over the web interface. Example commands:

ping –c 10 172.30.30.1
firmware

System Log and Recent events

Arctic system log can be seen on system log and recent event. When support for device is need, full
copy&paste from system log is needed.

Modem info

Arctic modem info show information about GPRS and GSM status. Also the signal strength is shown
here. This can be used for GPRS connection problems on site.

Send SMS

Arctic may be used for sending test SMS. This can be used for example checking the phone number
of current SIM-card.

Default Settings

Arctic may be set to factory default settings from the Tools menu. This restores factory settings
excluding network settings.

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7. GPRS

The Arctic GPRS Router provides a direct and reliable GPRS connection and data transmission to
stationary or E-GSM 900/1800 mobile networks around the world.

In this Chapter the specialities related to GPRS operation are described.

Placing Arctic GPRS

When choosing the installation site of Arctic models with the GPRS option, please remember that it
uses radio waves for data transmission. The surrounding environment affects the behavior of radio
signals. Therefore, if you are using an Arctic with the antenna mounted directly to the antenna
connector (without an extension cable), try to avoid placing the unit in a location where the radio
signal might be shadowed by nearby obstacles. Note also that large metallic surfaces (racks) or walls
with metallic structures (cabling, concrete iron) may highly degrade the antenna performance. In case
of metal racks or surfaces it is recommended to use an external antenna with an appropriate cable.
This allows placing of the Arctic more freely.

GPRS Antenna

The Arctic with GPRS includes a FME connector (male type) for an external antenna. It is possible to
use any kind of external 50 Ω dual-band antenna intended for GSM900 (880–960 MHz) and
GSM1800 (also known PCN) (1710–1880 MHz) frequency bands. Connect the antenna directly to the
connector provided for the antenna on the back panel of the Arctic unit.

Typically, commercially available antennas are provided with a flexible 50 Ω cable having a length of
2–3 meters and having a female type FME-connector.

The Arctic GPRS Router is tested with antennas from Hirschmann Rheinmetall Elektronik GmbH.
Examples of tested external antennas include the following sticker-type and magnetic mount antennas
shown below:

MCA 18 90 STRIPE, sticker type patch
antenna (above), and
MCA 18 90 MH , magnetic mount antenna
(right). Both antennas have a FME (female)
connector and L=250 cm RG174 cable.

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SIM Card and Card Holder

Standard 3 V SIM cards may be used with the Arctic GPRS Router. A SIM card holder is located on
the back panel near the GPRS antenna connector. If you have the PIN code query enabled, first
check that the Arctic Configurator has a correct PIN code entered in the GPRS submenu. To operate
with SIM card follow the procedure below:

1. Power off the Arctic.

2. The SIM card holder contains a tray with a yellow eject button. Push this button in order to
eject the tray from the holder.

3. Put the SIM card onto the tray.

4. Insert the tray carefully back to the holder and press the tray until it is locked.

Configuring Arctic GPRS Settings

1. If your SIM card has the PIN code querying set, make sure you configure the PIN code before
inserting the card in the card holder. If PIN querying is not set, you may proceed with the card
installation procedure.

2. Connect to the Arctic and log in to Configurator.

3. Navigate to Network page from main navigation bar and select the GPRS sub page (Network
Æ GPRS).

Note: The card should only be inserted or removed while the GSM module has been placed in

shutdown mode. The SIM card holder has a card detection circuit that will in theory allow hot
insertion and removal of the card. However, hot insertion and removal are not recommended,
since the SIM card content may be corrupted if the card is removed while the GSM module is
writing data to it.

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4. Set the access point name appropriately (usually “INTERNET” or “operatorname.com”).

5. Set the GPRS network username and password appropriately if your GPRS service requires
authentication.

6. Set default route to enabled. With this setup, you are able for example to browse the web.

7. Optionally, set the PIN code and PPP idle timeout.

• If your SIM card has the PIN code set, type the code into the PIN code field.

• PPP idle timeout defines the time in seconds how often the Arctic resets the GPRS

connection if the connection is idle.

• ICMP Echo is used to monitor GPRS connection between Arctic and a remote host. If the

designated host cannot be reached the GPRS connection is restarted. This feature should
be always enabled from Network Æ Monitor menu.

8. Finally click Apply and then Commit to store the settings.

.
Reboot the Arctic for the settings to take effect. Check GPRS status from Network/Summary Menu.

Useful GSM/GPRS Information

Useful GSM/GPRS information can be obtained from Tool Æ Modem Info Menu:

Note: If the PIN code querying is enabled on the SIM card and the PIN code is entered wrongly

three (3) times, the card locks up and will then require that an additional code is to be entered
to open the card from locked state. It is thus important to set the code with the

A

rctic

Configurator before plugging the SIM card in.

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Troubleshooting

This Chapter provides a list of the common problems encountered while installing, configuring or
administering the Arctic. If you are unable to resolve your problem, refer to the Warranty and
Technical Support Sections at the end of this User’s Guide for information about contacting Viola
Systems Technical Support representatives.

Common Problems

Problem #1

Q: Console does not receive characters.
A: Disable HW and SW handshaking from you terminal software (e.g. Hyperterm or Minicom).

Problem #2

Q: GPRS interface is up but no traffic flows through it.
A: Default gateway in Ethernet settings submenu has to be set as “0” and also default gateway has to
be enabled from Network/GPRS menu when using GPRS interface as the default gateway

Problem #3

Q: GPRS connection is not established.
A: Check that the SIM card has the correct PIN number settings and that it has not been locked after
a wrong number was entered three times successively. PIN status can be checked from Tools/Modem
Info menu.

Problem #4

Q: GPRS connection is ended after approximately two minutes.
A: You have enabled connection checking from Network/Monitor menu but not set the correct IP to
GPRS “ICMP Echo settings”.

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Technical Specifications

Processor 32-bit 48 MHz RISC Processor

Memory

32 MB RAM
8 MB Flash ROM

Network Interface

10/100 Base-T. Shielded RJ45
Ethernet (IEEE 802.3)

1.5 kV isolation transformer

Serial Device Interface

1 x Male DB9 connector DTE,
15kV ESD and short circuit protection
RS-232, 19200 bit/s, 8 data bit, 1 stop bit, no parity (console)

Power Requirements

10 – 26 VDC, less than 500 mA (1–4 W power consumption)
Resettable fuse and ESD protected input
External 110–230 VAC adapter (optional)

Temperature Range

Operating: –20 to 70

o

C

Storage: –30 to 85

o

C

Relative Humidity Operating: 5 to 85 % RH non-condensing

Operating System µCLinux embedded multitasking operating system

Network Protocols Supported

PPP, IP, ICMP, UDP, TCP, ARP, DNS, DHCP,FTP, TFTP,
HTTP

Tunneling (VPN)

SSH-VPN client (requires Viola M2M Gateway)
SSHv2 server and client
SSHv1 server and client

Management

WWW, SSH, Telnet and console
FTP, TFTP and HTTP software update

Routing and Firewall

Static routing, proxy ARP, port forwarding,
IP masquerading/NAT, firewall

Serial Device Connectivity

Device server application (Serial GW)
Simultaneous GPRS, CSD and SMS
SMS configuration and status reporting

Dimensions and Weight

Models in aluminum frame:
Size: 180 mm × 110 mm × 45 mm (W×L×H)
Weight: 0.7 kg
Attachment rail for optional and custom mounting

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Limited Warranty

Coverage

Viola Systems warrants this hardware product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship
for the warranty period. This non-transferable, limited warranty is only to you, the first end-user
purchaser. The warranty begins on the date of purchase and lasts for the period specified below:

Arctic GPRS Router one (1) year

Excluded Products and Problems

This warranty does not apply to: (a) Viola Systems software products; (b) expendable components
such as cables and connectors; or (c) third party products, hardware or software, supplied with the
warranted product. Viola Systems makes no warranty of any kind on such products which, if included,
are provided "AS IS." Excluded is damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, unusually heavy use,
or external environmental causes.

Remedies

Your sole and exclusive remedy for a covered defect is repair or replacement of the defective product,
at Viola Systems’ sole option and expense, and Viola Systems may use new or refurbished parts or
products to do so. If Viola Systems is unable to repair or replace a defective product, your alternate
exclusive remedy shall be a refund of the original purchase price.
The above is Viola Systems’ entire obligation to you under this warranty. IN NO EVENT SHALL
VIOLA SYSTEMS BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR SPECIAL
DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, USE, OR PROFITS EVEN IF VIOLA
SYSTEMS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. In no event shall
Viola Systems’ liability exceed the original purchase price of the device server. Some states or
countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

Obtaining Warranty Service

You must notify Viola Systems within the warranty period to receive warranty service. During the
warranty period, Viola Systems will repair or replace, at its option, any defective products or parts at
no additional charge, provided that the product is returned, shipping prepaid, to Viola Systems. All
replaced parts and products become the property of Viola Systems. Before returning any product for
repair, customers are required to contact the Viola Systems.

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Technical Support

Contacting Technical Support

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.violasystems.com

Recording Arctic Information

Before contacting our Technical Support staff, please record (if possible) the following
information about your Arctic product:

Product name:

Serial no:

Note the status of your Arctic in the space below before contacting technical support.
Include information about error messages, diagnostic test results, and problems
with specific applications.