Cradlepoint R2100 Series

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DRAFT
R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router Quick Start Guide
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Introduction
This document provides a brief overview of the R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router, discusses what is inside the box,
and provides basic setup and install instructions.
Note: The Verify app includes many of the same instructions with an alternate order. This document supports the
Verify app instructions. Use the Navigation section below to locate the topics most applicable to troubleshooting
your setup issues. For additional setup support, contact a professional installer or refer to ourContact Uspage.
Intended Audience
This article is intended for professional networking hardware installers. It provides basic knowledge and should be
used only as a reference guide for installing the router. Due to the unique nature of each installation, potential for RF
exposure, and enhanced separation requirements, customers must have a professional install their 5G hardware. This
article is a reference guide and is intended only to provide best practices.
Refer to theCradlepoint Product Disclaimer and Limitation of Liabilitysection for further information.
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Navigation
Use the following links to quickly navigate through this document:
Introduction
Intended Audience
R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router models
Before you begin
External device components
Location considerations
SIM card for wireless connectivity
Required tools for setup
Setup
STEP 1: Check box contents
Accessories
STEP 2: Install SIM (if not pre-installed)
STEP 3: Mount the router
STEP 4: Connect power
Power socket pinouts
STEP 5: Power up the router
STEP 6: Activate the router in NetCloud Manager
Understanding LEDs
Troubleshooting
Resources
Terms of Service
Help and Support
Cradlepoint Product Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability
Disclaimer
Installer Responsibility
Limitation of Liability
Professional Installer Network
Safety and Regulatory Warnings

Main Page

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router is a robust device designed for reliable 5G connectivity in various environments. It provides advanced networking features and is built to withstand challenging conditions.

Function Description:

The R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router serves as a primary connectivity solution, leveraging 5G technology for high-speed data transfer. It is designed to establish and maintain an active network connection, supporting various applications that require reliable and fast internet access. The router integrates an embedded modem for cellular connectivity and includes Ethernet/PoE ports for wired connections. Its primary function is to provide internet access, manage network traffic, and facilitate communication between connected devices. The device can be activated and managed through NetCloud Manager, a cloud-based platform that allows for remote configuration and monitoring.

Important Technical Specifications:

The R2100 Series comes in different models, including the R2105 (with Wi-Fi) and R2155 (no Wi-Fi), both sharing the model number 5SA237A. The router's power input is designed for 12VDC, with a minimum 3A current. It supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) for flexible power delivery. The device includes multiple LEDs to indicate various status conditions:

POWER LED: Indicates if the unit has power.
- No Light: Not receiving power.
- Solid White: Powered on.
NCM STATE LED: Indicates the NetCloud Manager connection status.
- No Light: Unable to connect to NetCloud Manager.
- Solid White: Connected to NetCloud Manager.
ETHERNET CONNECTION LED: Indicates if the RJ-45 connection has shaken loose.
- No Light: Not connected.
- Solid White: Connected.
EMBEDDED MODEM STATE LED: Provides information about the integrated modem.
- No Light: Modem not detected.
- Solid Green: Modem has established an active connection.
- Flashing Green: Modem is connecting.
- Solid Yellow: Data connection error.
- Flashing Yellow: Modem is in the process of resetting.
- Solid Red: Carrier reject.
- Flashing Red: No SIM or SIM door open.
CELLULAR HEALTH LED: Indicates the health of the primary cellular modem's signal.
- No Light: No cellular connection.
- Solid Green: Cellular health is excellent/good.
- Solid Yellow: Cellular health is fair.
- Solid Red: Cellular health is poor.

The router's physical dimensions are approximately 10.2 inches (260 mm) in length. It features multiple internal components, including thermal pads, cable inlets, a touch sensor, recessed logo, LEDs, and a SIM door.

Usage Features:

The R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router is designed for easy installation and operation.

SIM Card Installation: The device supports the installation of SIM cards for cellular connectivity. The process involves loosening Torx security screws, installing the SIM card with contacts up and notch facing toward the router, and then securing the Torx screws. The router supports at least one activated 4FF-sized SIM card with an active cellular data plan.
Mounting: The router can be mounted on a relatively flat exterior vehicle surface. Very mildy curved surfaces can be accommodated, provided the curve allows the entire adhesive surface of the router to engage and produce no gaps between the gasket and mount surface. Installation involves placing a mounting template, drilling holes for cable routing and fasteners, and securing the router with adhesive and fasteners. Best practice considerations for mounting include ensuring the router is positioned to receive optimal signal, avoiding installation near heat sink pads or extreme heat/cold, and complying with safety, regulatory, and warranty guidelines.
Power Connection: The router can be powered via Ethernet/PoE or a dedicated power cable. The power socket pinouts are clearly defined: Black for Ground, Red for Power (12VDC), Orange for Ignition Sense, and Blue for N/C. It is important to use a fused 3A circuit for power.
NetCloud Manager Integration: The router is activated and managed through NetCloud Manager, providing remote configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting capabilities. Users need to log into their NetCloud Manager account for device activation.
LED Indicators: A touch-sensitive button allows users to verify the power LED lights. The various LED indicators provide real-time status updates on power, NetCloud Manager connection, Ethernet connection, embedded modem state, and cellular health, enabling quick diagnostics.
Accessories: The router supports various accessories, including a Vehicle Mounting Foam (Part Number: 170905-000) for sealing uneven surfaces and a Vehicle Mounting Extension Bolt (Part Number: 170906-000) for thicker surfaces.

Maintenance Features:

Maintenance for the R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router primarily involves ensuring proper installation and monitoring its operational status.

Adhesion and Seepage Prevention: For maximum adhesion, the bonding surfaces must be clean and dry, and free from obstructions that could prevent the two surfaces from sealing together. The router contact surface must be fully engaged with the surface of the vehicle to avoid water seepage. Cradlepoint recommends a 24-hour waiting period at room temperature to achieve 90% bond strength of the adhesive. Colder temperatures may require longer curing times.
Troubleshooting: If the device takes longer than five minutes to connect to the Internet, users can log into the local UI of the device to make configuration changes or start the troubleshooting process. Once the device connects to the Internet, it should connect to NetCloud Manager for configuration download. Resources like the R2100 Series 5G Ruggedized Router Webpage and Data Sheet, along with troubleshooting guides for "No Internet or Connection Issues," are available for support.
Firmware Updates: While not explicitly detailed as a maintenance feature, management through NetCloud Manager implies that firmware updates and security patches can be applied remotely, ensuring the device remains secure and performs optimally.
Professional Installation: Cradlepoint highly recommends professional installation to ensure proper setup and adherence to all guidelines, minimizing potential issues and maximizing device performance and longevity. Cradlepoint disclaims liability for any inaccuracies or omissions in the installation guide and for adverse results caused by reliance on the instructions.
Warranty and Disclaimer: Cradlepoint provides a disclaimer stating that the hardware is provided "AS IS" without warranty of any kind regarding its performance or fitness for a particular purpose, especially if not installed in accordance with the installation guide. This emphasizes the importance of correct installation and adherence to guidelines for optimal device function and to maintain warranty validity.