Proroute H685 User manual

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Proroute H685 WRT Industrial Grade
3G & 4G Cellular Router
User Manual
Email: [email protected]
WEB: www.proroute.co.uk

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Content
1 Preparation before configuration······································································································································· 5
1.1 Features and model types ······································································································································ 5
1.2 Using the correct SIM card for your router ··········································································································· 5
1.3 Signal strength and antennas ······································································································································ 6
2 Hardware specifications and installation ·························································································································· 7
2.1 Overall Dimension, top and side panels ··············································································································· 7
2.2 Router ports ······························································································································································ 1
2.3 SIM card installation ················································································································································ 1
2.4 Antenna installation·················································································································································· 2
2.5 Installation of terminal block ··································································································································· 3
2.6 Grounding·································································································································································· 5
2.7 Power Supply···························································································································································· 5
2.8 LED lights and Checking Network Status············································································································· 5
3 Software configuration························································································································································ 7
3.1 Overview···································································································································································· 7
3.2 How to log into the Router ······································································································································ 7
3.3 System Configuration ············································································································································ 12
3.3.2 Setup wizard························································································································································ 12
3.3.1 System·································································································································································· 16
3.3.2 Password······························································································································································ 18
3.3.3 NTP······································································································································································· 20
3.3.4 Backup/Restore··················································································································································· 21
3.3.5 Upgrade································································································································································ 21
3.3.6 Reset (Restore to factory default settings)······································································································ 22
3.3.7 Reboot ·································································································································································· 24
3.4 Router status··························································································································································· 24
3.4.1 Status overview··················································································································································· 24
3.4.2 Network status····················································································································································· 27
3.4.3 Firewall status······················································································································································ 29
3.4.4 Routes ·································································································································································· 30
3.4.5 System log ··························································································································································· 31
3.4.6 Kernel log ····························································································································································· 32
3.4.7 Realtime graphs·················································································································································· 33
3.4.8 VPN······································································································································································· 34
3.5 Services configuration ··········································································································································· 37
3.5.1 ICMP check (Ping Reboot)································································································································ 37
3.5.2 VRRP······························································································································································ 39
3.5.3 Failover (link backup) ········································································································································· 40
3.5.3.1 Failover basic settings·························································································································· 40
3.5.4 DTU······································································································································································· 41
3.5.4 SNMP······························································································································································ 43
3.5.6 GPS································································································································································· 45
3.5.7 SMS ······································································································································································ 46

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3.5.7 VPN································································································································································· 55
3.5.8.1 IPSEC································································································································································ 55
3.5.8.2 PPTP ································································································································································· 58
3.5.8.3 L2TP ·································································································································································· 61
3.5.8.4 OpenVPN·························································································································································· 63
3.5.8.5 GRE tunnel ······················································································································································· 65
3.5.9 DDNS···································································································································································· 67
3.5.10 Connect Radio Module ···································································································································· 69
3.6 Network Configuration··········································································································································· 70
3.6.1 Operation Mode ·················································································································································· 71
3.6.1.1 Set two LAN Ethernet Ports on H685··········································································································· 71
3.6.2 Mobile configuration ··········································································································································· 71
3.6.3 Cell mobile data limitation···························································································································· 73
3.6.4 LAN settings ·················································································································································· 74
3.6.5 Wired-WAN···················································································································································· 77
3.6.6 WiFi Settings························································································································································ 79
3.6.6.1 Wifi General configuration ··················································································································· 79
3.6.6.2 WiFi Advanced Configuration·············································································································· 80
3.6.6.3 WiFi Interface Configuration················································································································ 81
3.6.6.4 WiFi AP client ··················································································································································· 83
3.6.7 Interfaces Overview············································································································································ 85
3.6.8 Firewall ································································································································································· 86
3.6.8.1 General Settings·············································································································································· 86
3.6.8.2 Port Forwarding ··············································································································································· 86
3.6.8.3 Traffic Rules······················································································································································ 87
3.6.8.4 DMZ ························································································································································ 91
3.6.8.5 Security··················································································································································· 91
3.6.9 Static Routes ················································································································································· 93
3.6.10 Switch ································································································································································· 94
3.6.11 DHCP and DNS············································································································································· 95
3.6.12 Diagnostics ···················································································································································· 97
3.6.13 Loopback Interface··········································································································································· 98
3.6.14 Dynamic Routing ·············································································································································· 98
3.6.15 QoS··································································································································································· 100
3.6.16 Guest LAN (Guest WiFi)································································································································ 101

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H685 Series Routers
Proroute H685 Routers are high spec industrial routers specifically designed for IOT/M2M
applications, the H685 runs on a purpose-built operating system based in OpenWRT. These
are a small and ruggedised mobile routers capable of high-speed connections to mobile
networks. The routers are ideal for integrating into machines or electrical/equipment cabinets.
This allows you to connect to your external networks and remotely access and monitor your
machines. Commonly used application are for: CCTV, BMS, EV Charging, Digital Signage,
Wind and Solar power etc.
The main types of H685 are categorized by the type of modem the router uses, and therefore
the generation of mobile technology they can connect to. The hardware section (Chapter 2) of
this manual is specific to H685 routers with 4G and 3G modems. Chapter 3 (about the web
interface) is applicable to 3G, 4G and the new 5G model also.
Proroute H685 Routers are available in 3G, 4G LTE Cat4 and 4G LTE-A Cat6 versions. The
H685 5G model is also now available, whilst there are differences in the hardware, the main
functions and web interface are very similar for this model.
All routers are backwards compatible with previous generations of mobile technology. (i.e.
H685 4G is 3G and 2G capable.)
Fixed or Private IP SIMS
If you also require a SIM which allows remote connection to your H685, feel free to contact us
at [email protected] for more information on Fixed Public IP address SIM cards and
SIMs with private IPs and secure VPN connections. These ordinarily cannot be sourced from
the mobile providers directly.

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Chapter 1
1 Preparation before configuration
1.1 Features and model types
Main features for all models:
✓SMS to control router online/offline, reboot, status, IO alarm, WiFi state.
✓Automatic fallback to 3G / 2G.
✓Small, Ruggedised construction. Easy integration into machines and cabinets.
✓Mobile and WiFi antenna diversity.
✓Supports port forwarding.
✓Supports ping reboot function to reduce engineer site visits.
✓WiFi for remote hotspot and mobile applications
✓RS232 Serial Server via terminal block.
✓Ethernet ports: 1x 100M LAN + 1x 100M LAN/WAN
Proroute H685 Router type
Installed mobile module theoretical max values
4G Cat6
LTE-A up to 300 Mbps Down, 50Mbps Up
4G Cat4
LTE up to 150Mbps Down, 50Mbps Up
3G
HSPA+ Downlink 21 Mbps / Uplink 5.76 Mbps
Please note – For any mobile technology (3G, 4G or 5G) Theoretical max rates are industry
standardised and will only be replicated in laboratory test settings. Real world speeds of any
mobile phone or router in strong high-quality signal will be roughly 20-30% of the max theoretical
values.
1.2 Using the correct SIM card for your router
Proroute routers are all ‘unlocked’ meaning any network SIM is compatible. You have free
choice of any available network.
Take care to also install the correct type of SIM card to suit your H685 router. There are
multiple versions of the H685 router (3G / 4G / 5G). Each is backwards compatible with older
mobile technologies (i.e. 4G router is capable of connecting to 3G and 2G).

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However, if a 3G only capable SIM is installed into the H685 4G, the SIM does not allow a 4G
connection. This applies to any mobile router.
If you need to remotely connect to your H685, it may need a publicly routable IP address, the
most straight-forward method is using a Fixed Public IP SIM. Please contact
[email protected] for help with these SIMs.
1.3 Signal strength and antennas
Make sure the signal is good enough where you test or install the router for your application.
Weak signal will affect the router’s performance. If there is poor signal reaching the router
inside, you may require an external antenna, feel free to contract Proroute for antenna options
[email protected].
If you find your signal strength is poor in the area both inside and outside, you will want to try
a different mobile network.
When using an external antenna, keep in mind there is significant signal loss down the length
of coaxial cable from antenna to modem. Therefore it is recommended to use 5m max of cable
if possible. If possible it is always better to move the router closer to the external antenna, and
run a shorter coaxial but longer ethernet data cable.

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Chapter 2
2 Hardware specifications and installation
This chapter describes the appearance and specifications of the hardware, including accessories
and basic installation instructions.
2.1 Overall Dimension, top and side panels

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2.2 Router ports
SIM: SIM/UIM card port.
LAN: LAN RJ45 Ethernet ports.
WAN: WAN RJ45 Ethernet ports.
RST: SYS reset button. (Factory reset options are found at Section 3.3.6 Reset)
PWR: DC power socket. DC7~30V (standard).
Terminal Block
VCC: DC wire positive pole. DC7~30V, - DC5~50V option is available for special order.
GND: DC wire ground
GND: Serial ground
RX: serial receiving
TX: serial transmission
RST: reset router
DIO0: digit I/O port 0
DIO1: digit I/O port 1
DIO2: digit I/O port 2
DIO3: digit I/O port 3
2.3 SIM card installation
The H685 is compatible with SIM Size 2FF (standard SIM). It is possible to use Nano and
Micro SIMs inserted into converter caddies.
SIM size examples

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To install the SIM card:
1) Remove SIM cover panel on rear of router by removing the two screws.
2) Slide and lift the SIM holder, Insert SIM into holder and press and slide to lock SIM into
place.
3) Fix the protector back into place and replace back the two screws.
Please Note
Please take care to ensure the SIM is inserted correctly. If the SIM is out of position when
the SIM holder is slid back to position, the system will not detect the SIM card.
2.4 Antenna installation
Antenna Connection Table
Antenna Connector
Connector Type
Marks
Cell
SMA Female
For main cell antenna.
Aux / Cell Aux
SMA Female
For auxiliary cell antenna.
WiFi / WLAN / WiFi Aux
SMA Female
For WiFi antenna
GPS (Non-standard,
Optional extra)
SMA Female
For GPS antenna
The H685 has 2x Mobile Cell antenna connectors and 2x WiFi antenna connectors. The
connectors on the router are SMA female.

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As standard the H685 4G comes with 4x stick antennas and 4x magnetically mountable
antennas. These have SMA male connectors.
To install the antennas, place antenna connector on the router’s connector and turn clockwise
until tight. To remove antenna, turn anti-clockwise.
Please note
The mag-mount antennas will only function correctly when the base it placed on a flat metal
surface at least 30cm x 30cm in size.
The 4G modem requires 2x antennas connected on Cell1 and Cell2 to allow max functionality
and to pick up the strongest signal possible. Although some applications (usually running at
lower data speeds) may function well with one antenna.
2.5 Installation of terminal block
As standard the H685 router comes with a terminal block, this will be pre-installed already
connected to the body of the router and does not need to be altered.
This enables the use of pluggable terminals, these can be used to give power to the unit,
and to connect and transfer data also.
Terminal block specifications
Units
Spacing
3.81mm
Number of Pins
10
Suggested Wire gauge
14~24AWG
To install wires into the terminal block, make sure the router is not connected to power,
and remover remove terminal block from router. Remove the terminal block by gently
pulling unit out of the router.
Use a small flat-headed screwdriver to open and close the individual terminals. Open by
turning screwhead anti-clockwise, insert wire, then secure by turning screwhead
clockwise.

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Note: When powering the router via the terminal block, the power cable should be wired with the
Please note
1. Take care to connect the power cable correctly. We suggest you double check
before switching it on. Incorrect wiring can damage the equipment.
2. Power terminals: Pin 1 and Pin 2
3. Here: Pin 2 is “GND”, PIN 1 is power input “VCC” (DC7~30V).
PIN
Signal
Description
Note
1
VCC
+7-30V DC Input
Current: 12V/1A
2
GND
Ground
3
TX
Transmit Data
4
RX
Receive Data
5
PGND
Ground
6
RST
Reset
Reset Pin has the same function
as the reset button at top of device.. In the
To reset with pin, short both
RST and GND terminals for
3 Seconds. This will restore the
Router to factory default settings.
This usually takes 2-4 minutes.
7
DIO0
General Purpose
I/O
8
DIO1
General Purpose
I/O
9
NC/DIO2
Not connect
Reserved for DIO2
10
NC/DIO3
Not connect
Reserved for DIO3

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correct voltage polarity. Wrong wiring may damage the router. Pin 1 and Pin 2 are reserved for power,
where Pin 2 is “GND” and PIN 1 is power input “Vin” (DC5~40V).
2.6 Grounding
To ensure a safe, stable, and reliable operation, the H685 router should be grounded
properly. If installed in a cabinet, the cabinet should be properly grounded also.
2.7 Power Supply
There are two options for powering the H685 router:
1) The DC barrel connector into PWR.
2) Via a bare wore-connector into the terminal block.
In most cases, the standard power configuration is 12V/1A, one of these power supplies
with a barrel connector is shipped with the router.
2.8 LED lights and Checking Network Status
LED Light order
Normal system lights on set-up
When the router is first powered on, the following light sequence is a good indication that the
modem is set-up normally. WAN & LAN will come ON briefly then go OFF. The LAN will come
ON and flicker with traffic, the SYS led will come ON for approx. 25 seconds, then will start to
flash and the Wi-Fi LED will come on.

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When the router is reset, this sequence above is also a good indication that the modem has
reset correctly as the Wi-Fi is enabled by default. (For how to factory reset go to section
3.3.6)
If a SIM card is inserted, and the antennas are receiving signal, the signal light will flash blue.
Once the correct APN settings of the SIM are entered into the router, an internet connection
will be established and the cell light will stop flashing and be solidly on.
If the router is receiving mobile signal, the signal light will flash blue. The faster the flash, the
stronger the signal. (see table below for details). More details of signal strength is found in the
web GUI. Status > Network.
- If LAN cable is connected and transmitting data, it will be flashing.
- If WiFi is enabled, the WiFi light will be solid on, and flickering if transmitting.
- If VPN tunnel is not connected, light is off. If VPN tunnel is connected, light is solid.
- If all lights are solid on and unchanging, most likely there is a system error. Try to factory
reset the router.
LED
Colour
Indication Light
Description
SYS
Solid on for 25 seconds
On for 25 seconds after power supply
Green
Flashing
System set-up normally
Off, or solid on after 25 seconds
System set-up failure
LAN
Flashing
Data transmission in Ethernet
Green
Off
No LAN cable connected, or error.
Solid on
Ethernet is connected
VPN
Green
Solid on
IPSec VPN tunnel is set-up and
connected
Off
IPsec VPN tunnel set-up failure or
inactivated
CELL
Orange
Flashing
Not connected to internet.
Solid on
Internet access established.
WiFi
Green
Solid on
Enable
Off
Disable
WAN
Flashing
Transmitting data
Green
Off
No WAN cable connected, or error.
Solid on
Ethernet is connected
Signal
Off
No signal, or signal checking system
not ready

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Blue
Flashing (2 seconds on, and 2 seconds off)
Signal bar is 1 (Low)
Flashing (1 seconds on, and 1 seconds off)
Signal bar is 2 (Medium)
Flashing (0.5 seconds on, and 0.5 seconds
off)
Signal bar is 3 (High)
Chapter 3
3 Software configuration
1. Overview
2. How to log into the Router
3. How to config web
3.1 Overview
The H685 routers have a built-in web Graphical User Interface (GUI) which allows configuration
and management of the router. The web interface also has debugging tools, system logs and
allows updates to the system. The H685 is based in OpenWRT. (OpenWrt is an open-source
project for embedded operating systems based on Linux.)
3.2 How to log into the Router
ONCE YOU HAVE LOGGED INTO THE ROUTER, IMMEDIATELY CHANGE YOUR PASSWORD
FROM THE DEAFUALT PASSWORD TO SOMETHING SECURE AND MEMORABLE.
To access the web interface of the router, connect an ethernet cable from the LAN port of the
H685 into your PC or Laptop.
The factory default settings of the H685 will have DHCP running on it’s LAN port. Therefore, if the
PC/Laptop’s network adapter is set to obtain an IP address automatically, communication with the
router will be possible and you can reach the web interface.
Normally the network adapter on a Windows 10 machine will be set to obtain an IP address
automatically. This means when the router and PC/laptop are connected with an ethernet cable, the
router’s web interface can be accessed straight away through a web browser (e.g. Chrome, IE, Edge,
Firefox etc.) by inputting the router’s default IP address 192.168.8.1 into the address bar.

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3.2.1 Network Configuration of the Computer.
The router default IP parameters are as follows.
Default IP: 192.168.8.1, sub mask: 255.255.255.0.
There are two methods to set the PC’s IP address. For both, in Windows 10 go to:
Control Panel > Network and Sharing Centre.
Network and Sharing Centre
Find the router connection (usually called Cell_AP_XXXXXX), click onto the blue connections
button (below ‘Ethernet 6’) This will open (in the picture here ‘Ethernet 6 Status’). >Press
Properties button.
*Connection* Status > Press Properties button.

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*Connection* Properties > double click Internet Protocol Version 4.
*Connection* Internet Protocol V4 Properties
Two methods for setting the PC’s IP address:

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Method 1 – Automatically set IP
The settings below will obtain the IP address for the PC/Laptop automatically. When the router
in it’s factory default settings, it’s DHCP server will give out an IP address and it will be reachable
with the below settings.
Method 2 - Manually set IP
Set the PC IP as 192.168.8.xxx (xxx = 2~254), subnet mask: 255.255.255.0, default gateway:
192.168.8.1, primary DNS: 192.168.8.1.

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Using either Method 1 or Method 2, you will now be connected to the router via IPv4 and you
can access the web interface and log into the router.
3.2.2 Log into Router
3.2.3
- Open the Web Browser (Chrome, IE, Edge, Firefox, etc).
- Please note it is best to access the router from a browser in ‘private browsing /
incognito mode’.
- Type the IP address 192.168.8.1 into the address field and press Enter.
- Type default Username/Password - admin/admin, then press the Login button.

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- You will now have access to the web interface and will initially land on the setup wizard.
- You should immediately change the password of the router to something secure and
memorable.
3.3 System Configuration
3.3.2 Setup wizard
On first login to the router, the Setup Wizard will be the landing page. It is not necessary to use
the wizard, the settings can be changed by clicking into the tabs at the side of the page.
However, if you run through the wizard or not:
REMEMBER – IMMEDIATELY CHANGE YOUR PASSWORD FROM THE DEFAULT TO
SOMETHING SECURE AND MEMORABLE. Especially if using a Fixed Public IP SIM card, as
your router will be accessible on the internet.
Setup Wizard - Step 1 - General
- Prompt to change password, this is the most important task once you log in to a new router.
Enter new password, and confirm again new password.
- Choose time zone
- Choose Hostname (you do not need to change from default).
- Choose language.
When ready, press ‘Save and Next’. (Settings are applied immediately).

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Setup Wizard - Step 2 – Mobile (APN SETTINGS)
This is where the APN settings of the SIM are entered into the router. If using a standard SIM
card (CGNAT dynamic IP), the router may auto-detect the SIM network and use a standard
APN. In this case you will notice it is not necessary to manually enter the APN settings of the
SIM into the router to get an internet connection. However, it is advised to always configure
the SIM’s correct APN settings manually, especially if using a fixed public IP SIM. If the router
auto-detects an APN for a public IP SIM, the router will have an internet connection, but it
may not have the SIM’s associated fixed public IP address.
Please note – if you don’t have the SIM’s APN settings, these can be obtained from
your SIM network or SIM provider.
Once these APN settings are saved; if the router has a SIM installed which matches the APN,
the router has antennas attached on the cell connectors, and the router is in a location
receiving signal from the SIM’s network. The router will make an internet connection.
Please note - Changing the wrong settings here can make the router fail to make an
internet connection. These settings can be obtained from the network or SIM provider.
Only change the settings instructed below, unless you are an experienced engineer
and require an advanced configuration.
- Enable – Tick to enable mobile network.
- Mobile connection – Leave as DHCP mode.