TrolMaster 4G Data Station (RTU-1) - Cellular SIM Router with 5 LAN Ports

TrolMaster 4G Data Station for Sites With No Wired Internet

The RTU-1 puts a site online where no wired internet reaches, using a cellular SIM card instead of a cable modem. Once the SIM sits in its drawer-type holder, the unit shares a 4G connection over Wi-Fi and through five Ethernet ports. Each port is 10/100M RJ45 with auto MDI/MDIX and 1.5 kV magnetic isolation protection. Wi-Fi follows IEEE 802.11b/g/n for devices within range. Only AT&T SIM cards are supported. Standard power is DC 12V / 1.5A from the included adapter, and the unit accepts anywhere from 5 to 35 V DC. Standard SMA female connectors at 50 ohm carry the Wi-Fi antenna and the 4G cellular antenna. Status lights cover LAN, Wi-Fi, alarm, internet, system, signal strength and power, so a glance shows where a fault sits. The housing is metal and rated IP30. An automatic repair function restores the connection on its own after a drop. Both antennas, an Ethernet cable and the power adapter come in a 10.6 x 9.8 x 2.6 in box that weighs 1.74 lb.

Bringing a Hydro-X 4G Data Station Online at a Remote Site

Rural greenhouses, new builds and leased buildings are where this unit earns its keep, because a controller without internet cannot send alerts. Plug a Hydro-X or another TrolMaster controller into a LAN port, or let it join over Wi-Fi, and the app sees the room again. Mount the station high on a wall facing the nearest tower, since metal buildings and insulated grow rooms soak up cell signal. Watch the signal strength light while you test spots, because one wall over can make a real difference. Screw both antennas on before powering up. The metal housing keeps tools out but offers no water protection, so it belongs in a dry electrical room. Spare LAN ports can serve a laptop, a camera recorder or another controller on the same site. The trade-off is carrier dependence. It works only with AT&T, and AT&T has begun phasing out 4G service in some markets, so check local coverage before planning around it. Where that service is not offered, a cellular hotspot with an RJ45 Ethernet port does the same job for the controller.

Key Features

• Cellular SIM Connectivity: An AT&T SIM gives the site its own internet link without a wired line.
• Five LAN Ports: Auto MDI/MDIX RJ45 ports connect controllers and other devices by cable.
• Wi-Fi Access Point: 802.11b/g/n covers controllers and phones that connect wirelessly.
• Wide Power Input: It runs from the included 12V adapter and accepts 5 to 35 V DC.
• Seven Status Lights: LAN, Wi-Fi, alarm, internet, system, signal and power lights show the state at a glance.
• Automatic Repair: The unit restores its connection on its own after a dropout.

Technical Specifications