Unable to connect the SARA R510M8S module to the network with Hologram SIM, despite correct APN configuration in Vietnam.

[zumintam]

Your workbench
Platform: Development board or microcontroller with SARA R510M8S module.
Device version: SARA R510M8S module.
Firmware version: Ensure you are using the latest firmware version for compatibility.
Wiring: The SARA R510M8S module is connected to the microcontroller via UART or other communication interfaces.
Power: Powered by an appropriate DC source (typically 5V for SARA R5 with V_ext).
Additional details: Hologram SIM is used, and the APN "hologram" is configured correctly, but the device cannot find the network or connect.

[PaulZC]

Hi @zumintam ,

According to https://www.hologram.io/coverage/ , the providers for Vietnam are:

Is your area covered by MobiFone or Vinaphone? Do they provide LTE-M coverage in your area?

I hope this helps,
Paul

[zumintam]

SARA-R510M8S-00B-01 Registration Status Not Registered(1).pdf

[zumintam]

I noticed that several other people are experiencing the same issue as I am, as seen in this forum, and there has still been no response
https://community.sparkfun.com/t/sara-r5-registration-status-not-registered/45663/6

[PaulZC]

Hello Tam Vu ( @zumintam ),

I am sorry you are having problems with the SARA-R5. I will help if I can.

Thank you for the detailed report.

I confirm that you have a SARA-R510M8S-00B-01 module. Your firmware is old: 02.06,A00.01.

To begin, I recommend you update your firmware. But please be careful. There are different versions of the firmware for the R510M8S-00B module and the R510M8S-01B module. You need the -00B version.

Please see:

https://www.u-blox.com/en/product/sara-r5-series?legacy=Current#Documentation-&-resources

https://www.u-blox.com/sites/default/files/documents/SARA-R5-00B-03_PCN_UBX-22037376.pdf

https://content.u-blox.com/system/files/EasyFlash_13.06.1.3.msi_.zip?hash=OKf39ldCdMF7wbRVW1hH7FWvhrWWKp4Ngc5UTJndjIw

https://content.u-blox.com/sites/default/files/2024-02/SARA-R510M8S-00B-03-IP-0210A0001-006K00.zip

I am a little nervous, as I see reports of the firmware update failing:

https://community.sparkfun.com/t/sara-r510m8s-bricked-after-firmware-update/61550

https://portal.u-blox.com/s/question/0D5Oj00000XUybhKAD/how-can-i-get-good-firmware-on-the-sarar510m8s-module-after-a-failed-update-how-do-i-recover

To make sure it was safe, I updated one of my Asset Tracker boards which also has the SARA-R510M8S-00B-00 on it.

Note: I used EasyFlash 13.06 as recommended in the application note - not 13.09 (the latest version).

I closed m-center.
I turned the SARA-R5 off by pressing the "SARA On" button on the board.
I waited for the "On" LED to go out.
I started the EasyFlash update.
I turned the power back on with the "SARA On" button.
The update was successful - but it was very slow (>14 mins at 115200 baud).

I disconnected the board. Reconnected. Started m-center:

I am connected with an IP address:

After the update, please open m-center and send AT+UFACTORY=0,2 to reset the module. Disconnect power and USB, then reconnect to reboot and reset the module.

Then please try your tests again.

I hope this helps,
Paul

[zumintam]

Dear Paul,

Thank you for the instructions. I will proceed with the update as you suggested.
I will let you know if any further issues arise. Thank you for your support!

Best regards,
Tam Vu

[zumintam]

After reading this, do you think Vietnam's network infrastructure is sufficient for supporting LTE-M effectively?
Dear Paul.pdf

[PaulZC]

Hello Tam Vu,

It looks like there are no LTE-M operators in your area.

In my area of the UK, I see only:

But with the LARA-R6001D and the same SIM, I see:

Would you like us to ask u-blox for suggestions?

Best wishes,
Paul

[zumintam]

Subject: Inquiry About Bulk Pricing for SparkFun GPS-RTK2 Board (ZED-F9P)

Dear SparkFun Team,

I hope this email finds you well.

I am interested in purchasing the SparkFun GPS-RTK2 Board - ZED-F9P (Qwiic) (GPS-15136) for a project in Vietnam. The listed price is $249.95, and I was wondering if you could offer a better price.

Could you also let me know the minimum quantity required to qualify for bulk pricing and the best price you can offer at different quantity tiers? Additionally, I would appreciate information about shipping options and costs to Vietnam.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to your response.

Best regards,
Tam Vu
vuminhtamndc@gmail.com

[PaulZC]

Hello Tam Vu,

I will pass your message to my colleagues. SparkFun is closed for the Thanksgiving holiday - it will take them a few days to reply.

Best wishes,
Paul