Using GSM WWAN Devices

Using GSM WWAN Devices | Top Previous Next

Mobile Operator Partner Selection

VZAccess Manager supports Verizon Wireless and Vodafone SIM cards. If you are using an embedded Global WWAN device in GSM mode, or if you have inserted a supported external GSM WWAN device, the VZAccess Manager will automatically detect the mobile operator that the SIM card belongs to and will setup the network connections for that mobile operator accordingly. You can also manually select by country the mobile operator that the SIM card belongs to.

To reach the GSM mobile operator partner choices, Select Options > Mobile Operator from the main menu.

GSM Network Preferred Service

The Preferred Service option enables the selection of network mode rules used during WWAN connectivity. The options available are Auto, GPRS, and 3G. If Auto is selected, the WWAN device will automatically connect to either a GPRS (2G) or faster 3G network based on signal strength. If GPRS only is selected, the WWAN device will only connect to the slower but more prevalent GPRS network. Similarly, if 3G only is selected, the WWAN device will connect only to the faster 3G network but less coverage may be available. By default, Auto is selected.

Manual Addition or Edit of a GSM Network Profile

The option to create a manual GSM Network Profile is available from the Connections sub-node of the WWAN node in Preferences.

Select Options > Preferences from the main menu and Select on the Connections sub-node. Select the Add button to open the "Edit Wireless Account" profile screen.

SIM Security Options

The Enable SIM Pin button, found on the WWAN Device Preferences screen, is a security setting for the (SIM), an integrated circuit installed on your mobile broadband device which contains user and account information.

Many GSM devices are provisioned with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) locking user access to the device and service. When you insert (or connect) a mobile broadband device you may be required to enter a PIN provided by your mobile operator. Mobile operators frequently limit the number of incorrectly entered PIN attempts from three (3) to (10). Failure to enter a correct PIN within the number of permitted attempts will lock the mobile broadband device. If the mobile broadband device becomes locked, you can re-enable the PIN mechanism by entering a Personal Unblocking Key (PUK). Contact your mobile operator to receive the PUK. After entering a correct PUK, you can reset the PIN.

Power off GSM WWAN Device

From the WWAN Device screen you can also enable/disable the option for the GSM WWAN device to power down when the VZAccess Manager application closes. The power off WWAN device option can also be reached from Options > Power Off Device in the main menu.