Communication Hardware

Accessories that provide allow the eGauge to communicate with another device (includes networking hardware, RS485 serial adapters, and similar).

Cellular Modem (Inhand Networks IR615)

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Inhand Networks IR615 is a cellular to Ethernet modem that can provide the eGauge unit and related supported equipment with internet access on a 4G LTE T-Mobile network.

A compatible T-Mobile dataplan can be purchased through eGauge Systems. eGauge cannot guarantee support for dataplans from other parties. eGauge supplied data plans are for use with eGauge meters and not third party products, line suspension or termination will occur if there is excessive data usage from third-party devices or general internet usage.

Modems sold by eGauge systems are pre-configured for the T-Mobile service provided by eGauge and utilize InHand Networks device manager for remote troubleshooting and customer assistance.

Metered (not unlimited) data plans can accrue charges for data overages. eGauge recommends against using metered data plans without extensive testing for data usage. Data usage is not fully predictable and will greatly vary with interface access. See this article for additional information on data usage.

If installing in an underground or high electrical noise area, a custom antenna solution or separate mounting location for the cellular modem may be necessary in order to have sufficient cellular signal.

 

IR615.png
Inhand Networks IR615

Specifications

Full specs (datasheet PDF)

Communication
Environmental and Operational
Physical

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

image-1605819005706.png

The cellular antennas must be located on the outside of any enclosure. Even plastic enclosures can degrade or block a cellular signal.

  1. If the modem is ordered with a data plan, an activation instruction sheet will be included with a SIM card. Insert the SIM card into the modem as shown above, if there are multiple SIM card slots, use the one labeled "SIM 1". Follow the data plan activation instructions provided to activate the data plan.
  2. Locate a suitable location to install the cell modem. If installing in a Powered Enclosure Kit (PEK), mount on the DIN rail.
  3. If using the PEK or other suitable enclosure, use the 2x short SMA extension cables to connect from the ANT and AUX connectors on the modem to create a bulkhead connector on the enclosure.
  4. Connect the antennas to the bulkhead connectors on the enclosure, or directly to the cell modem if not using an enclosure.
  5. Connect the power cord to the cellular modem.

  6. Connect the eGauge meter via Ethernet to a LAN port on the modem.

Software configuration and troubleshooting

Modems provided by eGauge are pre-configured to work on the T-Mobile network using data plans provided by eGauge Systems.

The APN for plans provided by eGauge with the IR615 modem is iot.tmowholesale and is automatically set in the configuration files provided below.

If the modem is not functioning and configuration may have been modified after shipment, perform a factory reset and upload the eGauge-specific cellular configuration if using a dataplan provided by eGauge Systems.

LED indicator description

The modem has 3 signal LEDs to indicate signal strength:

1 LEDs: Signal strength 1-9 (Signal strength is weak, please check antenna and the signal strength of current location).
2 LEDs: Signal strength 10-19 (signal strength is adequate, and the modem can be used).
3 LEDs: Signal strength 20-31 (signal strong).

The other LED behavior is described below:

image-1605818316027.png

Factory Reset

  1. Power on the modem and allow it at least 60 seconds to fully start running. Locate the Reset button below the antenna connections and find a paperclip or pin to push the button.
    image-1605818815944.png
  2. Use a push-pin or paperclip to hold down the "Reset" button on the side of the modem until the "STATUS" LED starts flashing and the "ERROR" LED remains solid, then release the button.
  3. When the button is released, the "ERROR" LED will turn off. Within 30 seconds, press and hold the "RESET" button again until the "ERROR" LED starts flashing and then release it.
  4. The unit will now restore factory default settings. The STATUS, WARN, and ERROR LEDs will all light up solid during the factory reset process. Allow the unit at least 60 seconds to fully factory reset, and then perform the initial configuration steps below.

Configuration steps

Modems provided by eGauge are pre-configured to work on the T-Mobile network using data plans provided by eGauge Systems.

  1. Identify the firmware version on the cell modem. On the bottom of the modem near the label is a sticker that indicates the firmware version. Below shows the modem uses firmware version 2.3.0.image-1624647978591.png
    If logged into the modem interface, the firmware version may be found on the main page. This modem shows it runs firmware version 2.4.3:

     

    image-1624648107190.png



  2. Download the configuration file that corresponds to your firmware version where x is any number. This file will be uploaded to the modem in a later step.
    2.3.x v2.3.x-egauge-ir615-DS-cell-config_qts.dat
    2.4.x v2.4.x-egauge-ir615-DS-cell-config.dat
  3. Connect a computer to a LAN port of the cell modem.
  4. Open a web browser to http://192.168.2.1/ and log in with username adm and password 123456.

    image-1605809939644.png

  5. Navigate to System -> Config Management.

    image-1605809785399.png

  6. Under "Router Configuration", click the "Browse" button and choose the file downloaded earlier.

    image-1605809813067.png

  7. Press "Import", choose "OK" when it asks if you are sure, and finally press "Reboot" when it prompts to be rebooted.

    image-1605809825184.png

Additional diagnostics and troubleshooting

The following pages provide information and diagnostics that can be helpful in identifying poor signal or other issues. Connect a computer to a LAN port of the modem and visit http://192.168.2.1/ logging in with username adm and password 123456. If this does not work, perform a factory reset and initial configuration as described in the above sections.

Page location Description
Tools -> Ping Have the modem ping an external IP or domain.
Status -> Modem Contains signal level, RSSI, SIM card number, network type and other modem-related information
Status -> Network Connections Dialup (cellular) IP information from cellular provider
Status -> Device List DHCP list of connected devices to the LAN ports
Status -> Log Raw log from modem

Documents

Related Information

 

 

Cellular Modem (Multitech MTE-LAT6-B07)

The Multitech cellular offering has been replaced by the Inhand Networks IR615 cellular modem starting in November 2020.

Current manufacturer information: Multitech model MTE-LAT6-B07

A compatible T-Mobile dataplan can be purchased through eGauge Systems. eGauge cannot guarantee support for dataplans from other parties.

Metered (not unlimited) data plans can accrue charges for data overages. eGauge recommends against using metered data plans without extensive testing for data usage. Data usage is not fully predictable and will greatly vary with interface access. See this article for additional information on data usage.

The Multitech cellular modem is a cellular to Ethernet modem that can provide the eGauge unit with internet access on a 4G LTE T-Mobile or AT&T network.

multitech-cell-modem.png
Multitech Cell Modem

Specifications

Full specs (data-sheet PDF)

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

If a dataplan is purchased at the same time as the Multitech cellular modem, the modem will come with the SIM card installed and pre-activated on the T-Mobile network.

Example setup for installing inside enclosure

  1. If using a non-eGauge data plan, insert the SIM card to the cellular modem according to the Multitech quick start guide that comes with the modem.
  2. If applicable, attach the DIN rail mounting stick and DIN rail clips to the Multitech cellular modem and mount in the enclosure.
  3. Connect the 2 SMA antenna extension cables to the Multitech antenna ports, and into pre-drilled holes on the enclosure. Use the 2 rubber O-rings to make a watertight seal.
  4. Attach the 2 antennas to the extension cables.
  5. Connect the Ethernet cable from the eGauge to the Multitech cell modem.
  6. Plug the power supply into a 120V outlet and the barrel jack to the Multitech modem.

Software configuration Information

When purchased with a dataplan, eGauge Systems pre-configures and tests the modems with the T-Mobile data plan purchased.

Documents

Related Information

WiFi adapter (USB powered TL-WR802n)

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Current manufacturer information: TP-Link model TL-WR802n

The USB-powered TP-Link WiFi adapter provides direct access to wireless networks and can be powered directly by the eGauge Core or Pro USB port. It is 802.11 2.4Ghz b/g/n compatible.
TP-Link USB powered WiFi adapter

Specifications

Full specs (data-sheet PDF)

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

  1. Locate the default WiFi name and password on the information card
  2. Power the adapter via USB from EG4xxx USB port, or 120V USB power brick
  3. Use laptop to configure WiFi network (see setup guide)
  4. Confirm internet/network by connecting Ethernet to laptop
  5. After confirming connectivity, connect Ethernet to eGauge

Software configuration Information

Setup guide

Documents

Related Information

WiFi Access Point (TL-WA801ND)

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Current manufacturer information: TP-Link TL-WA801ND

tp-link-wifi-ap.jpg
TP-Link Wifi Access Point

Specifications

Full specs (data-sheet PDF)

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

The WiFi access point is powered from a 120V barrel jack and connected to the eGauge via the included Ethernet cable. The access point can be easily mounted inside the powered enclosure kit using an included heavy duty Velcro strip.

Software configuration Information

Documents

Related Information

HomePlug AV Adapter (TRENDnet TPL-406E)

This is a discontinued product. eGauge Systems no longer offers HomePlug-compatible devices. If wireless communication is required, please utilize the WiFi-enabled EG42xx series meter.

 

The HomePlug AV adapter is used by compatible eGauge models to bring network communication over the existing building power lines. The HomePlug AV adapter plugs directly into a 120V outlet, connects to the router/switch using Ethernet, and allows compatible eGauge models to communicate over the the building's electrical wiring.

Specifications

Full specs (data-sheet PDF)

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

  1. Connect the HomePlug adapter to an outlet powered by the same phase as the eGauge L1 near the network router/switch.
  2. Connect the Ethernet from the HomePlug adapter to the network router/switch.
  3. All HomePlug devices and eGauge meters come with the same default encryption key of "HomePlugAV", and should link up if they have not been modified or paired with the push button pairing process.

Software configuration Information

The HomePlug adapter and eGauge can be paired with a unique encryption key. See this article for more information.

Documents

Related Information

RS485 to Ethernet Converter (BF430)

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Current manufacturer information: Chiyu model BF-430

EG4xxx (Pro and Core) are recommended to utilize the eGauge USB485 (serial to USB) adapter instead if possible.

Power can be provided (9-30V) to either terminals or barrel jack plug. eGauge sells a compatible 12Vdc power supply.

The Chiyu BF-430 is an RS-485/RS-232 to Ethernet converter. It is required for serial communication to third-party devices (for example, Modbus RTU) on older eGauge models without USB ports or to communicate over a network rather than serial line directly to the eGauge.

chiyu-bf430.jpg
BF430 Serial-to-Ethernet Converter

 

Specifications

Full specs (Manual PDF)

Hardware included:

Assembly/installation information

Do not apply power to both barrel jack and voltage terminals.

Serial settings are configured in software on the BF-430 and must be set correctly through web interface for use.

  1. Set the DIP switch in the upper left to 485 (or 232, if using the RS232 terminal connections).
  2. Connect the Ethernet (RJ45) to the local network.
  3. Connect the 485+ and 485- to the appropriate connections on the remote serial device (or RS232 if used instead).
  4. Apply power to the BF-430 using a barrel jack or 9~30V+ and 9~30V- terminals appropriately.

Software configuration Information

BF-430 Manual

Documents

BF-430 Manual

Related Information

eGauge USB-Serial Converter (USB485)

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Model: USB485

The eGauge USB485 is used to receive and send serial data between a RS485 serial chain and a host's USB port. Primarily it is used for compatible eGauge meters (EG4xxx Core and Pro) to record data from remote Modbus devices (such as inverters, temperature sensors, and other meters), or for other systems (such as a building automation system or other data loggers) to read data from the eGauge via Modbus RTU.

It may be used for other non-eGauge applications as it utilizes a well known FT230X chipset from FTDI. However, eGauge Systems does not provide support for these applications.

usb485.jpg
eGauge RS485-USB Converter

Specifications

Full specs (data-sheet PDF)

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

Ensure proper wiring between serial devices. Only connect data signals, and signal ground (not earth ground).

  1. Wire the serial line to the D+, D-, and signal ground. Use twisted pair wire for D+ and D- connections.
  2. Turn the termination DIP switch to ON if it is the last connection on the serial line. Termination should be OFF if it is daisy chained in-between devices.
  3. Connect the Mini USB cable to the EG4xxx USB1 or USB2 port. Take note of which port is used.

Multiple serial devices can be daisy chained on the same line as shown in the diagram below:

Software configuration Information

Documents

Related Information

Cellular Modem (Inhand Networks IR302)

 Visit the online store page

Inhand Networks IR302 is a cellular to Ethernet modem that can provide the eGauge unit and related supported equipment with internet access on a 4G LTE T-Mobile network.

A compatible T-Mobile dataplan can be purchased through eGauge Systems. eGauge cannot guarantee support for dataplans from other parties. eGauge supplied data plans are for use with eGauge meters and not third party products, line suspension or termination will occur if there is excessive data usage from third-party devices or general internet usage.

Modems sold by eGauge systems are pre-configured for the T-Mobile service provided by eGauge and utilize InHand Networks device manager for remote troubleshooting and customer assistance.

Metered (not unlimited) data plans can accrue charges for data overages. eGauge recommends against using metered data plans without extensive testing for data usage. Data usage is not fully predictable and will greatly vary with interface access. See this article for additional information on data usage.

If installing in an underground or high electrical noise area, a custom antenna solution or separate mounting location for the cellular modem may be necessary in order to have sufficient cellular signal.


ir302.jpg
Inhand Networks IR302

Specifications

Full specs (datasheet PDF)

Communication
Environmental and Operational
Physical

Hardware included

Assembly/installation information

image.png

The cellular antennas must be located on the outside of any enclosure. Even plastic enclosures can degrade or block a cellular signal.

  1. If the modem is ordered with a data plan, an activation instruction sheet will be included with a SIM card. Insert the SIM card into the modem as shown above, ensuring the SIM card is in the "SIM 1" position. Follow the data plan activation instructions provided to activate the data plan.
  2. Connect the DIN rail to either the left or right side of the modem using the included bracket and screws.
  3. Locate a suitable location to install the cell modem. If installing in a Powered Enclosure Kit (PEK), mount on the DIN rail.
  4. If using the PEK or other suitable enclosure, use the 2x short SMA extension cables to connect from the Cellular1 and Cellular2 connectors on the modem to create a bulkhead connector on the enclosure.
  5. Connect the antennas to the bulkhead connectors on the enclosure, or directly to the cell modem if not using an enclosure.
  6. Connect the power cord to the cellular modem.

  7. Connect the eGauge meter via Ethernet to a LAN port on the modem.

Detailed SIM card install instructions

  1. Use the SIM card remover tool to eject the SIM card tray.

    image.png

    image.png
    SIM card remover tool
    		 Insert SIM card removal tool into SIM card ejection port
  2. Remove the SIM card from the SIM card holder. The SIM card has 2 outer shells that must be removed prior to inserting into the holder.

    image.png

    image.png
    Full SIM card
    		 SIM card with 2 outer shells removed
  3. Insert the SIM card (with no outer shells) into the lower (SIM 1) position of the SIM card holder tray and insert back into the IR302 modem.

    image.png
    SIM card in holder before inserted


Software configuration and troubleshooting

Modems provided by eGauge are pre-configured to work on the T-Mobile network using data plans provided by eGauge Systems.

The default DHCP range of IR302 modems provided by eGauge is 192.168.2.2 to 192.168.2.100. Devices may be given static IPs in the range of 192.168.2.101 to 192.168.2.254. A particular static IP must not be used on more than one device on a single modem.

If the modem is not functioning and configuration may have been modified after shipment, perform a factory reset and upload the eGauge-specific cellular configuration if using a dataplan provided by eGauge Systems.

LED indicator description

The modem has a "Signal" LED with 3 different colors to indicate the signal strength level:

Red: Signal strength 0-10 (Signal strength is weak, please check antenna and the signal strength of current location).
Yellow: Signal strength 11-20 (signal strength is adequate, and the modem can be used).
Green: Signal strength 21-30 (signal strong).

The other LED behavior is described below:


Power

(Red)

Status

(Green)

Cellular

(Yellow)

 Description
Off Off Off Powered Off
On Off Off System failure
On On Off The module or SIM card is not
recognized
On On Blinking Dialing (Connection attempt is being made)
On On On Dialing Succeeded (A connection to the provider was made. This does not guarantee the SIM card data plan is active)
On Blinking On Software Upgrade in progress
On Blinking, then On Off A reset is being performed

Factory Reset

  1. Power on the modem and allow it at least 60 seconds to fully start running. Locate the Reset button next to the SIM card tray,

    image-1655916902610.png

  2. Use a push-pin or paperclip to hold down the "Reset" button on the side of the modem for 10 seconds. The status LED will turn off and back on again. Release the reset button.
  3. Push the reset button again for 2 seconds and release. The Status LED should alternate on and off.
  4. The LEDs will all turn off, and the modem will restart with the normal start-up LED sequence.
  5. Use the configuration steps below to reconfigure the modem for T-Mobile plans provided by eGauge Systems.

Configuration steps

Modems provided by eGauge are pre-configured to work on the T-Mobile network using data plans provided by eGauge Systems. These steps are only needed if the modem was factory reset or configuration was modified.

The APN for T-Mobile plans provided by eGauge is iot.tmowholesale

  1. Download the IR302 eGauge configuration for T-Mobile here.

  2. Connect a computer to a LAN port of the cell modem.

  3. Open a web browser to http://192.168.2.1/ and log in with username adm and password 123456.

    image-1605809939644.png

  4. The modem may prompt to opt-in to a User Experience Program from InHand. You may click "CANCEL" on this. It may be toggled on or off later in Services -> User Experience Plan.

  5. Navigate to System -> Config Management.

    image-1605809785399.png

  6. Under "Router Configuration", click the "Browse" button and choose the file downloaded earlier.


    image-1655916417303.png

  7. Press "Import", choose "OK" when it asks if you are sure, and finally press "Reboot" when it prompts to be rebooted.

    image-1605809825184.png

Additional diagnostics and troubleshooting

The following pages provide information and diagnostics that can be helpful in identifying poor signal or other issues. Connect a computer to a LAN port of the modem and visit http://192.168.2.1/ logging in with username adm and password 123456. If this does not work, perform a factory reset and initial configuration as described in the above sections.

Page location Description
Tools -> Ping Have the modem ping an external IP or domain.
Status -> Modem Contains signal level, RSSI, SIM card number, network type and other modem-related information
Status -> Network Connections Dialup (cellular) IP information from cellular provider
Status -> Device List DHCP list of connected devices to the LAN ports
Status -> Log Raw log from modem

Status -> Modem value descriptions

The following values may be found in Status -> Modem.

The below table describes the values for each of the values. If any values are Weak or Medium, modem connectivity may not work or may be intermittent. Conversely, cellular connectivity can be limited or nonfunctional even if all values are Good or Excellent due to issues such as congestion or high traffic on local towers or the providers network, or inter-cell interference.

Condition
 RSRP (dBm)
 RSRQ (dB)
 SINR (dB)
Excellent ✓✓✓
 >=-80
 >=-10 >=20
Good ✓✓
 -80 to -90
 -10 to -15
 13 to 20
Medium ✓
 -90 to -100
 -15 to -20
 0 to 13
Weak
 <=-100
 <-20
 <=0

Documents

Related Information



Dataplans

Dataplans sold by eGauge Systems are intended for use with models sold by eGauge Systems and in the U.S.

You must have an eGauge.net account before activating a data plan. If you do not already have an eGauge.net account, please create and confirm an eGauge.net account at https://www.egauge.net/account/register/. To confirm the account you must click on a link that is emailed to you.

Data Plans belong to the eGauge.net user and email that activated it. Invoices and bills will be sent to the eGauge.net account email that activated the data plan.

Only data plans sold directly by eGauge Systems may be activated through the data plan portal. Only modems currently and previously sold by eGauge Systems are supported.

For information on using the IR302 modem provided by eGauge Systems, view our IR302 product page.

Data Plan Service

eGauge Systems provides cellular modems along with a SIM card that provides T-Mobile service compatible with modems sold by eGauge Systems in the U.S.

Modem Information

For particular information on your modem, including hardware and SIM card installation and configuration, please find the model number in our Communication Hardware chapter. All modems sold by eGauge Systems are pre-configured to work with the dataplans provided.

Data Plan Activation

Each Data Plan sold is provided with a sheet of paper with a QR code and link to activate the plan. An example is shown here:

image-1661811280544.png

Note: the QR code and "link below" link goes to a unique URL for that particular data plan activation

If you do not already have an eGauge.net account you will be requested to create one. After you create and confirm the account

Scan the QR code or enter the link and follow the instructions for activating the data plan. eGauge Systems utilizes Stripe Billing for billing and recurring payments.

Without QR code, link, or paperwork

If you do not have the QR code or link from the paperwork that came with the SIM card, you may log into eGauge.net and activate the data plan by clicking Support → Activate a Data Plan, and entering the SIM card number in the form.

image-1661813268537.png


Data Plan Cancellation

To cancel a data plan, log into your Data Plan Management portal as shown below and choose the Cancel button. If payment lapses for a user's data plans, the plans will automatically be cancelled.

Data Plan Management

eGauge.net provides a simple portal to manage data plans purchased and activated through eGauge Systems. To begin, log into your eGauge.net account which has one or more active data plans. Click your user in the upper right-hand menu and choose "Account Settings":

image-1661813429227.png

Next, choose "Manage Data Plans":

image-1661813523726.png


You will be presented with a list of data plans that have been activated under your account. Plans may be cancelled or reactivated here (in the case you cancelled them after activating).

image-1661818583404.png


You may cancel plans using the "Cancel plan" button. After a plan is cancelled, it will display in your portal with a "reactivate" button. A deactivated plan may be activated by a different user, for example if a different user is responsible for ongoing payment of a data plan, it may be deactivated and the new user may activate it using either the original QR code or link the data plan came with, or using the "Activate a Data Plan" link in the Support menu on eGauge.net.


Billing

All billing for data plans is performed through Stripe, under a single bill that starts when the first data plan on a users account is activated. Any additional plans activated while an existing data plan is active will be billed for on the billing date of the first plan activation date. You may update and set the default credit card and view previous bills through the portal shown above, using the "Manage billing info or view invoices" button in the upper right-hand corner of the page.

Upcoming payment notifications and invoices are sent to the email used when registering the eGauge.net account that activated the plan.

Transferring plans to another user

A data plan cannot be "transferred" between users as the billing information is linked to Stripe and the eGauge.net user. To transfer a plan to another user, the original activator of the plan must cancel the plan, and the new user may activate the plan using the QR code or entering the SIM card number manually.