Explorer
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29 Messages
Is the MicroCell Service Down?
Around mid-morning on November 1, my MicroCell went offline and has not been able to connect since. Everything else on my network is behaving normally and I've had no interruption in my Internet service. So, I was wondering if someone might know if there's a problem with the service in general? Perhaps something weather-related? If not, is there a way I can verify that my device is ironies not malfunctioning?
Thanks!
Charlie
CharlieSchorner
Explorer
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29 Messages
11 years ago
Agreed, absolutely. I've already reconfigured my router in preparation for making that change this evening.
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OttoPylot
ACE - Expert
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24.3K Messages
11 years ago
I'll keep my fingers crossed!
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MC_ISP
Teacher
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10 Messages
11 years ago
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OttoPylot
ACE - Expert
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24.3K Messages
11 years ago
^^^^ I would agree with that. It seems that the MicroCells are "fragile" in that any network changes at all can really confuse them. Some, like mine, are really robust and stable but others are not. With AT&T, VZ, etc constantly tweaking their cell networks with updates, fixes, what not, the MicroCell just has a hard time adjusting. That's why I heartily recommend port forwarding to a static IP, following the instructions to the letter as far as window location (or use of an external antenna), etc goes, and the use of some sort of UPS. Even then, some still have issues
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Contact_RM
Voyager
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2 Messages
11 years ago
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CharlieSchorner
Explorer
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29 Messages
11 years ago
$6.00 at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006LEDZX8/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00 GPS antenna for MicroCell.
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OttoPylot
ACE - Expert
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24.3K Messages
11 years ago
FWIW, I have a metal roof and have never had any issues with GPS lock. The GPS is for their locational database to verify your location in proximity to a tower and for the 911 locational database. However, speaking of 911, there are issues with ANY cell phone call to 911, same as VOIP calls to 911. Unless you call 911 with a landline, you should ALWAYS use the 10-digit emergency number when calling from a cell phone or VOIP line.
I agree, it would have been nice for AT&T to include an external antenna or at least make in an optional purchase for those who couldn't place their MicroCell within 18" of a window but at least the folks here have figured out what kind of antenna works best and where to purchase it.
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moleman_42
Explorer
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22 Messages
11 years ago
Some additional information on the GPS antenna connector on the back of the Microcell. A GPS signal lock is required for the Microcell to operate. GPS data is used by the Microcell to know what frequiecies that AT&T is licensed to use in the area the Microcell is located. The GPS location is also used by the Microcell to know which macrocell (large cell towers) are adjecent to the Microcell, also used to know which cell frequencies are available to use. This is in addition to 911 location info.
The GPS connection on the back of the microcell is an MCX connection (not an MMCX). I purchased an adapter from L-Com (Part#CA-MPNFCN19) that allowed me to connect a 70 Ft type high quality "N" cable to an external GPS antenna. It now takes all of 10 seconds for a GPS lock on the first floor and has been operating reliably for over a year. It never loses a GPS lock, and my microcell has been "down" no more than a few minutes total during the past year. A GPS lock is required 100% of the time for the Microcell to operate.
My microcell unit is on the first floor, and I needed the longer cable to get to get my external antenna into an area clear of trees on the second floor. "typical" external mount GPS antennas for automotive use have the required MCX connector.
There are many choices on the internet for GPS antennas with an MCX connector in the $18 to $25 range with 15 to 20 Ft cables that will allow you to obtain a GPS lock near a window.
The antenna connection on the back of the device has nothing to do with cellular signal strength, only GPS signal strength. The cellular antennas (there are two of them inside the unit) for the Microcell are small metal traces on the circuit board inside the Microcell and are not accessible to the end user.
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MC_ISP
Teacher
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10 Messages
11 years ago
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OttoPylot
ACE - Expert
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24.3K Messages
11 years ago
I'm wondering if this is not a regional thing. Port 4500 is indeed one of the ports needed for proper data flow but I haven't seen any indications of any issues in my area related to Port 4500.
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