1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50X Rugged Industrial LTE CAT6 Router. The RV50X is designed to provide robust LTE broadband connectivity for critical remote fixed assets and industrial IoT infrastructure, offering low power consumption suitable for battery or solar-powered deployments.
Key features include:
- LTE CAT6 connectivity with up to 300 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink speeds.
- Rugged design for harsh environments.
- Ethernet and serial connections.
- Integrated GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).
- Optimized for low power consumption.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50X Router
- DC Power Cable
- Documentation (Quick Start Guide, Safety and Regulatory Information)
Note: Antennas and other accessories may be sold separately depending on the specific product bundle.
3. Physical Features
3.1 Front Panel Overview
The front panel of the RV50X router features LED indicators for status monitoring, a SIM card slot, and a reset button.
Image 1: Front view of the Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50X router. Visible are the Sierra Wireless logo, AirLink RV50 branding, a SIM card slot labeled '1', and four LED indicators for Network, Signal, Activity, and Power, along with a Reset button.
- SIM Card Slot: Insert your activated SIM card here.
- LED Indicators: Provide visual feedback on the router's operational status.
- Reset Button: Used to restart the router or restore factory default settings.
3.2 Rear Panel Overview
The rear panel provides various ports for power, network connectivity, and serial communication.
Image 2: Rear view of the Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50X router. From left to right, ports include: two Cellular antenna connectors, a GPS antenna connector, a DC Power input, an Ethernet port, an RS-232 serial port, and a USB port. A Diversity antenna connector is also visible on the far right.
- Cellular Antenna Connectors: Connect main and diversity cellular antennas.
- GPS Antenna Connector: Connect a GPS antenna for location services.
- DC Power Input: Connect the provided DC power cable.
- Ethernet Port: Connect to a local area network (LAN) device or switch.
- RS-232 Port: For serial communication with industrial equipment.
- USB Port: For potential future use or specific configurations.
4. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your AirLink RV50X router:
4.1 SIM Card Installation
- Ensure the router is powered off.
- Locate the SIM card slot on the front panel.
- Insert an activated 2FF (Mini-SIM) SIM card into the slot with the gold contacts facing down and the notched corner oriented correctly. Push until it clicks into place.
- To remove, push the SIM card in again until it springs out.
4.2 Antenna Connection
- Connect the main cellular antenna to the port labeled "Cellular".
- Connect the diversity cellular antenna to the port labeled "Diversity".
- Connect the GPS antenna to the port labeled "GPS" (if using GNSS features).
- Ensure all antenna connections are finger-tight.
4.3 Power Connection
- Connect the provided DC power cable to the "DC Power" input on the rear panel.
- Connect the other end of the DC power cable to a compatible power source (e.g., 12V-24V DC supply).
- The router will power on automatically. Observe the Power LED on the front panel.
4.4 Network Connection
- Connect an Ethernet cable from your computer or local network device to the "Ethernet" port on the rear panel of the RV50X.
- For serial communication, connect a serial cable to the "RS-232" port and to your serial device.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 LED Indicators
Monitor the front panel LEDs for operational status:
- Power LED:
- Solid Green: Router is powered on and operating normally.
- Off: Router is powered off.
- Network LED:
- Solid Green: Connected to the cellular network.
- Flashing Green: Attempting to connect to the cellular network.
- Off: Not connected to the cellular network.
- Signal LED:
- Indicates cellular signal strength (e.g., more lights for stronger signal). Refer to the full product documentation for detailed signal strength interpretation.
- Activity LED:
- Flashing: Data activity over the cellular connection.
- Off: No data activity.
5.2 Initial Configuration
To access the router's web-based management interface for initial configuration:
- Ensure your computer is connected to the RV50X via the Ethernet port.
- Open a web browser and enter the router's default IP address (typically
192.168.1.1or192.168.13.31). Refer to the Quick Start Guide or product documentation for the exact default IP. - Enter the default username and password (usually
adminfor both, or as specified in the documentation). - Follow the on-screen prompts to configure your cellular connection, network settings, and security preferences.
- It is highly recommended to change the default administrator password immediately after initial login.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your RV50X router:
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Sierra Wireless support website for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware current ensures access to the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the router. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the router operates within its specified temperature and humidity ranges. Avoid exposing the device to excessive dust, moisture, or direct sunlight.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not under strain.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your RV50X router.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power (Power LED Off) |
|
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| No Cellular Network Connectivity (Network LED Off/Flashing) |
|
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| Poor Signal Strength (Signal LED low) |
|
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| Cannot Access Web Interface |
|
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For more advanced troubleshooting, refer to the comprehensive AirLink RV50X User Guide available on the Sierra Wireless support website.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | AirLink RV50X |
| Part Number | 1103052 |
| Connectivity Technology | LTE CAT6 (4G), HSPA/HSPA+ (3G) |
| Data Transfer Rate | Up to 300 Mbps Downlink, 50 Mbps Uplink |
| LAN Port Bandwidth | 300 Mbps |
| Interfaces | Ethernet, RS-232, USB, SIM Slot |
| Antenna Connectors | Cellular (Main, Diversity), GPS |
| GNSS | Integrated GPS |
| Power Input | DC Power (via included cable) |
| Dimensions (Package) | 9.3 x 7.8 x 2.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Regulatory Certifications | FCC, IC, PTCRB, R&TTE, GCF, CE, IECEE CB Scheme, UL 60950, E-Mark (UN ECE Regulation 10.04), ISO7637-2, SAE J1455 (Shock & Vibration), Class 1 Div (Hazardous Environments) |
| Supported Frequencies (4G LTE) | 2100(B1), 1900(B2), 1800(B3), AWS(B4), 850(B5), 2600(B7), 900(B8), 700(B12), 700(B13), 800(B20), 1900(B25), 850(B26), 700(B29), TDD B41 |
| Supported Frequencies (3G HSPA/HSPA+) | 2100(B1), 1900(B2), 1800(B3), AWS(B4), 850(B5), 900(B8) |
| UPC | 812320005258 |
9. Warranty and Support
The Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50X includes access to AirLink Complete, a comprehensive subscription service designed to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mission-critical infrastructure.
- AirLink Complete: This service combines best-in-class device management software (AirLink Management Service - ALMS), industry-leading technical support, and an extended warranty option.
- Initial Coverage: AirLink Complete is included free for 1 year with the purchase of a new RV50X.
- Technical Support: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please visit the official Sierra Wireless support website or contact their customer service.
For detailed warranty terms and support resources, please refer to the official Sierra Wireless documentation or their website: www.sierrawireless.com/support
