How to Setup Mikrotik Knot LoraWAN & The Things Network
Microtik Knot Setup Guide
Overview of the Microtik Knot
- Introduction to the Microtik knot, highlighting its components: two Ethernet ports, a nano SIM card slot, power supply, and RS-485.
- Antennas are not included; users must provide their own. One antenna connects to the CATEM port for LTE, while another is needed for LoRaWAN.
Preparing for Setup
- A standard LTE antenna is suggested initially; however, a different antenna may be necessary for optimal range in actual deployment.
- Users need a nano SIM card and an Ethernet cable for initial setup. The video assumes familiarity with connecting cables.
Connecting Components
- Instructions on inserting the nano SIM card into the designated slot next to the power port.
- Connect the Ethernet cable to port one; this connection is essential for first-time setup before switching to Wi-Fi later.
Powering Up and Initial Configuration
- After plugging in power, users should see lights flashing on the device indicating successful power connection.
- Accessing Microtik's website is recommended to download Winbox software for configuration.
Configuring Network Settings
- Using Winbox, locate your device by refreshing neighbors. The default IP address (192.168.88.1) will appear.
- Default login credentials are provided (username: admin, no password). Changing this password during setup is crucial for security.
Setting Up Wireless Connection
- Navigate to wireless settings to configure security profiles and connect to local Wi-Fi networks using personal passwords.
- Enable advanced mode in security profiles for better visibility when selecting protocols.
Finalizing Network Configuration
- Add VLAN 1 Port and Ethernet 1 Port to a default bridge configuration.
- Set up DHCP client on the bridge to negotiate IP addresses from local networks.
Testing Internet Connectivity
- Configure DNS settings with Google’s DNS (8.8.8.8 and 1.1.1.1).
- Conduct a ping test to verify internet connectivity; successful pings indicate proper setup before proceeding with updates.
Updating Device Software
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How to Upgrade and Configure Your Router
Upgrading the Firmware
- After logging in, ensure the router's firmware is updated. If not, force an update by navigating to System > Router Board and clicking Upgrade.
- A notification will confirm the successful update; however, a system reboot is necessary for changes to take effect. Go to System > Reboot.
Configuring LTE Connection
- To set up an LTE connection, navigate to PPP, create a PPP client, and input your APN (e.g., "tel" for Telstra).
- Set data channel to 4, info channel to 2, and modem initialization to 80. This process may take 20-30 minutes depending on signal strength.
- Monitor the logs for a public IP address indicating a successful connection. The interface list will show an "R" next to PPP when registered.
Setting Up LoRa Gateway
- By default, LoRa is disabled; enable it by configuring your service settings and renaming your gateway as desired.
- You can customize the channel plan if needed; request assistance via comments if you want guidance on this process.
Registering with The Things Network
- Create an account on The Things Network (TTN), log in after verification, and register your device using the frequency plan from your router configuration.
- It may take some time for traffic to hit the airwaves; typically expect connection within two or three minutes after enabling settings.
Additional Features of Maker Deck
- The Maker Deck has slots for analog and digital pins that allow connections for external devices or monitoring applications.