Define the mobile network, local connections, antenna position, power source and mounting before choosing a model.
Country, operator and network
State every country and mobile operator expected in the deployment. Confirm the required 4G or 5G bands, SIM format, APN method and whether the installation uses one SIM, dual SIM or eSIM.
Also state whether cellular is the primary WAN, a backup link or one part of a multi-WAN design. The role affects failover, recovery and status-reporting requirements.
Antenna and signal conditions
Record whether cellular and Wi-Fi antennas are internal or external, the available mounting positions and the expected cable length. Vehicle, marine, cabinet and outdoor installations place different limits on antenna position and cable routing.
Signal measurements at the intended location are more useful than a general coverage-map result. Device placement, nearby structures and network load can affect the connection.
Local interfaces and Wi-Fi
List the required Ethernet port count and speed, WAN/LAN behavior, Wi-Fi generation, expected client count and any serial, USB or GPIO interfaces. Note whether a downstream switch, gateway or access point is already part of the design.
For FWA, define whether the premises handoff is Ethernet, Wi-Fi or both. For vehicles, include the devices used while stationary and in transit.
Power and installation
Specify the available voltage, connector or PoE method, expected power budget and shutdown behavior. Also record enclosure dimensions, mounting direction, operating temperature and whether vibration, moisture or restricted airflow apply.
A desktop enclosure, vehicle installation and outdoor cabinet can require different connectors, mounting hardware and thermal limits even when the network function is similar.
Software and support functions
List the required WebUI languages, remote diagnostics, logs, traffic statistics, SIM status, automatic APN, watchdog behavior, OTA update process and user access levels.
Separate functions used during normal operation from those used only for support. Use the same list for software review and acceptance testing.
Configuration sheet
Keep the agreed radio, interface, power, mechanical and software details with the sample configuration and test report.
| Area | Information |
|---|---|
| Network | Countries, operators, bands, SIM and WAN role |
| RF | Antenna type, connectors, placement and cable length |
| Local network | Ethernet, Wi-Fi, clients and connected equipment |
| Installation | Power, enclosure, mounting and environment |
| Software | UI, management, diagnostics, logs and update method |