Hardware
Modems
Tested cellular modems and routers.
The lists below catalog modems verified working with the IRLEncoder bonding stack.
Tested 5G M.2 modems
| Modem | Chipset | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Quectel RM551E-GL | SDX75 | 5G Cat-20 |
| Quectel RM530N-GL | SDX65 | 5G Cat-16 |
| Quectel RM520N-GL | SDX62 | 5G Cat-16 |
Tested 4G M.2 modems
| Modem | Chipset | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Quectel EM160R-GL | SDX24 | 4G Cat-16 |
| Quectel EM12-G | 4G Cat-12 | |
| Quectel EC25-G | 4G Cat-4 (also dongle) |
Tested router-style modems
These plug in over ethernet or USB tether. Useful when you want a modem with a built-in battery for run-time outside the rig's main power.
| Router | Generation | Battery |
|---|---|---|
| GL.iNet GL-X3000 | 5G Cat-16 | No |
| GL.iNet GL-XE3000 | 5G Cat-16 | Yes |
| GL.iNet GL-E750V2 | 4G Cat-6 | Yes |
| GL.iNet GL-XE300 | 4G Cat-4 (no band 66) | Yes |
Tested USB modems
| Modem | Notes |
|---|---|
| Huawei E8372h-320 | |
| Huawei E3372h-153 | |
| Huawei E3327s-153 | |
| Huawei MS2372h-607 | |
| ZTE MF79U |
Untested but expected to work
| Modem | Chipset | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Foxconn T77W968 | SDX20 | 4G Cat-16 |
| Fibocom L850-GL | 4G Cat-9 |
A note on form factor
M.2 modems live inside the rig and need an M.2 to USB carrier (or a board with M.2 slots). USB modems plug straight into a hub. Routers are an external box. Mix and match as your build allows.
The tested-gear list on this page mirrors the catalog at irlbox.com. Credit to IRLbox for the original testing work.