Teltonika RUT956 4G LTE Cellular Router Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Teltonika RUT956 is an industrial-grade 4G LTE cellular router designed for robust and reliable network connectivity in various applications. It integrates cellular, Wi-Fi, and wired Ethernet options, featuring automatic WAN failover for uninterrupted service. The device also includes GNSS capabilities for location services and serial communication interfaces (RS232, RS485) for integrating diverse industrial equipment.

Equipped with advanced RutOS software, the RUT956 facilitates equipment control, automation, and event notifications, making it suitable for demanding industrial environments. This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your RUT956 router.

2. Product Overview

2.1. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your product package:

• Teltonika RUT956 4G LTE Cellular Router
• Power Supply Unit
• Mobile Antennas (2x)
• Wi-Fi Antennas (2x)
• GPS Antenna (1x)
• Ethernet Cable
• Quick Start Guide

Note: The exact number and type of antennas may vary based on your specific product variant.

2.2. Device Layout

Figure 1: Front and side view of the Teltonika RUT956 router. This image displays the overall compact design of the industrial router, highlighting its robust casing and the main antenna connectors on the top surface.

Figure 2: Rear panel of the RUT956 router. This view clearly shows the connectivity options including three LAN ports, one WAN port, RS485 terminal block, RS232 DB9 connector, power input, and I/O terminal block. These ports facilitate diverse network and device integrations.

Figure 3: Top panel of the RUT956 router. This image illustrates the dual SIM card slots (SIM1, SIM2), a USB port, GPS antenna connector, two WiFi antenna connectors, and the reset button. The mobile antenna connectors are also visible, labeled 'MOBILE'.

Port and Indicator Descriptions:

• Power (PWR): Input for the DC power supply (9-50 VDC).
• LAN Ports (LAN1, LAN2, LAN3): 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports for local network devices.
• WAN Port: 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port for connecting to an external network (e.g., fiber modem, DSL modem).
• RS232: DB9 connector for serial communication, supporting RTS and CTS flow control.
• RS485: Terminal block for RS485 serial communication (Full Duplex 4 wires, Half Duplex 2 wires).
• I/O: Terminal block for digital input/output connections.
• SIM Slots (SIM1, SIM2): Slots for inserting 4G LTE SIM cards.
• USB: USB 2.0 port for external storage or other compatible devices.
• Antenna Connectors:
  • MOBILE (Main/Aux): Connectors for 4G LTE cellular antennas.
  • GPS: Connector for the GPS antenna.
  • WIFI: Connectors for Wi-Fi antennas.
• Reset Button: Used to restore factory default settings or reboot the device.
• LED Indicators: Provide status information for power, network connectivity, signal strength, and Wi-Fi.

3. Setup

3.1. Initial Hardware Setup

1. Insert SIM Card(s):

   Locate the SIM card slots on the top panel of the router (refer to Figure 3). Using a SIM ejector tool or a small pin, press the button next to the SIM slot to open it. Insert your activated 4G LTE SIM card(s) into the SIM1 and/or SIM2 slots with the gold contacts facing down and the notched corner oriented correctly. Close the SIM tray securely.

2. Attach Antennas:

   Connect the provided cellular (MOBILE), Wi-Fi (WIFI), and GPS antennas to their respective connectors on the router. Ensure they are finger-tightened to establish a secure connection. For optimal performance, position the antennas vertically and away from obstructions.

3. Connect Power:

   Connect the included power supply unit to the PWR terminal block on the rear panel of the router (refer to Figure 2). Ensure the correct polarity (9-50 VDC). Plug the power adapter into a suitable power outlet. The router will begin to power on, indicated by the power LED.

   Note: The RUT956 supports Passive PoE over spare pairs on LAN1. This is not compatible with IEEE802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt standards. Ensure your PoE injector or switch provides 9-50 VDC Passive PoE on Mode B if using this method.

4. Connect Ethernet (Optional):

   For initial configuration or wired network access, connect an Ethernet cable from one of the LAN ports (LAN1, LAN2, or LAN3) on the router to your computer's Ethernet port. Alternatively, connect the WAN port to an external modem or network for internet access.

3.2. Initial Software Configuration

1. Access Web Interface:

   Open a web browser on your connected computer. In the address bar, type the default IP address: 192.168.1.1 and press Enter.

2. Login:

   You will be prompted for a username and password. The default credentials are typically found on a sticker on the device or in the Quick Start Guide. Enter these credentials to access the RutOS web interface.

3. Initial Setup Wizard:

   Upon first login, you may be guided through an initial setup wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure basic settings such as changing the default password, setting up your cellular connection (APN settings), and Wi-Fi network details.

4. Verify Connectivity:

   After completing the setup, check the router's status page to ensure that the cellular connection is established and that you have internet access. The signal strength LEDs on the router will also indicate cellular signal quality.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Network Connectivity

• Cellular (4G LTE): The RUT956 automatically attempts to establish a cellular connection using the inserted SIM card(s). Monitor the signal strength LEDs and the web interface for connection status.
• Wi-Fi: The router operates as an Access Point (AP) by default, broadcasting a Wi-Fi network. Connect your wireless devices using the configured SSID and password. It can also function as a Station (STA) to connect to an existing Wi-Fi network.
• Ethernet: Use the LAN ports to connect wired devices. The WAN port can be configured for a wired internet source, providing failover or primary connectivity.

4.2. Dual SIM Functionality

The RUT956 supports two SIM cards with advanced auto-switch capabilities. This feature ensures continuous connectivity by automatically switching between SIM cards based on predefined conditions:

• Weak Signal: Switches to the SIM with a stronger cellular signal.
• Data Limit: Switches when a data usage limit is reached on the active SIM.
• SMS Limit: Switches if an SMS limit is exceeded.
• Roaming: Switches to avoid roaming charges or to a preferred roaming network.
• No Network/Network Denied: Switches if the current network becomes unavailable or denies connection.
• Data Connection Fail: Switches if the data connection fails.
• SIM Idle Protection: Switches if a SIM remains idle for a configured period.

These settings can be configured and prioritized within the RutOS web interface under the "Network" > "Mobile" section.

4.3. Advanced Features

• Wireless Hotspot (Captive Portal): Configure a captive portal for guest Wi-Fi access, supporting internal or external Radius servers and customizable landing pages.
• Remote Management System (RMS): The RUT956 is compatible with Teltonika's Remote Management System (RMS), allowing for centralized monitoring, configuration, and maintenance of your devices from a single platform. Access RMS via rms.teltonika-networks.com.
• Routing Protocols: Supports various routing protocols including Static routing, Dynamic routing (BGP, OSPF v2, RIP v1/v2, EIGRP, NHRP), and Policy-based routing for complex network configurations.
• Serial Communication: Utilize the RS232 and RS485 interfaces to connect and manage industrial devices, PLCs, and sensors, integrating them into your network solution.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Firmware Updates

Regularly update the router's firmware to ensure optimal performance, security, and access to new features. Firmware updates can be performed via the RutOS web interface under "System" > "Firmware". Download the latest firmware from the official Teltonika Networks website.

5.2. Cleaning

To maintain proper operation, keep the router clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the device.

5.3. Environmental Conditions

Ensure the router is operated within its specified environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) to prevent damage and ensure longevity. Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or excessive moisture.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your RUT956 router.

• No Internet Connection:
  • Verify SIM card is correctly inserted and activated.
  • Check cellular signal strength via LEDs or web interface. Relocate the router or adjust antennas if signal is weak.
  • Confirm APN settings are correct in the RutOS web interface.
  • If using WAN, ensure the external modem/network is functional and the Ethernet cable is properly connected.
  • Reboot the router by disconnecting and reconnecting the power supply.
• Cannot Access Web Interface (192.168.1.1):
  • Ensure your computer is connected to one of the router's LAN ports or its Wi-Fi network.
  • Verify your computer's IP settings are set to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
  • Try a different web browser.
  • If the IP address was changed, try the new IP. If forgotten, a factory reset may be necessary (see below).
• Wi-Fi Not Visible or Cannot Connect:
  • Ensure Wi-Fi antennas are securely attached.
  • Check Wi-Fi settings in the RutOS web interface (SSID broadcast, password, enabled status).
  • Verify your device is within range and supports 802.11b/g/n standards.
• Slow Performance:
  • Check cellular signal strength; weak signal can lead to slow speeds.
  • Ensure no other devices are consuming excessive bandwidth.
  • Update firmware to the latest version.
• Factory Reset:

  If you encounter persistent issues or forget your login credentials, a factory reset can restore the router to its default settings. With the router powered on, press and hold the reset button (refer to Figure 3) for approximately 10-15 seconds until all LEDs flash. Release the button, and the router will reboot with factory defaults.

7. Technical Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Teltonika Networks products are designed for reliability and performance. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Teltonika Networks website.

For technical support, firmware downloads, and additional resources, please visit the Teltonika Networks Wiki or contact their official support channels. You can find more information at wiki.teltonika-networks.com.