The AT&T 3G MicroCell Owner's Thread

[Benster]

I am having literally the EXACT same problem! After a week of trying to get ahold of somebody who knows what they are talking about, I'm on the phone with AT&T right now waiting for my Microcell to restart so that I can make a test call.

I will report back with what happens.

EDIT: They told me that it is a known issue. They had me make some calls so that they could have logs, but they said it might take a while for it to be fixed =/ They have until Monday, that's when the return period ends for me.

My latest call has been going for 56 minutes now with no issues. It seems fairly sporadic. I also forgot to mention that I am connected to work via VPN on the same network the Microcell is running on. I'm sure that I am pushing some bandwidth constraints today, but will keep you posted. I will be doing the same tomorrow. I'll have over 600 minutes logged on the microcell since I got it. I have been getting input from folks on the conference call and the feedback I have been getting is that when it is working fine, it does not sounds like I am on a cell phone. I'm coming in louder than the presenters on the call.

-Benster

 

[Luigi239]

My latest call has been going for 56 minutes now with no issues. It seems fairly sporadic. I also forgot to mention that I am connected to work via VPN on the same network the Microcell is running on. I'm sure that I am pushing some bandwidth constraints today, but will keep you posted. I will be doing the same tomorrow. I'll have over 600 minutes logged on the microcell since I got it. I have been getting input from folks on the conference call and the feedback I have been getting is that when it is working fine, it does not sounds like I am on a cell phone. I'm coming in louder than the presenters on the call.

-Benster

Well no matter what I do, I seem to get some level of distortion with every call. I spent two hours on the phone with AT&T today, and they have no resolution for me.

I think I'm going to return the thing tomorrow and buy a signal booster. It's $50 more, but then again it doesn't use my internet connection, and it's been proven to work.

 

[semlohde]

I'm paying enough for 3g services now. I can't see why any of you bought this instead of write the FCC complaining of ATTs poor 3g service and charging you twice to get what they will not deliver. I have 4 3g phones and expect 3g service - it's what I and you are paying for. To add a device in my home or business, to put the load they can't carry on cable - I know if I was a cable provider I'd block that sucker like ATT blocked Slingmedia. And ATT would be heading to court for loading my ISP.

 

[B's iPhone]

Well no matter what I do, I seem to get some level of distortion with every call. I spent two hours on the phone with AT&T today, and they have no resolution for me.

I think I'm going to return the thing tomorrow and buy a signal booster. It's $50 more, but then again it doesn't use my internet connection, and it's been proven to work.

I sent you a pm.

 

[tpm1999]

Something you might want to try is

http://www.voipreview.org/voipspeedtester.aspx

it is voip speedtest that looks at things like packet loss, etc. This will show if the issue is with your isp.

You might just have a bad microcell though. If after 1 week I am having bad calls I will try to swap it out (once it goes national).

I have tried a repeater in the past. Unless you have good signal outside the house, it really does not work that great. I have bad signal inside/outside the house. Darn hills!

 

[Luigi239]

Something you might want to try is

http://www.voipreview.org/voipspeedtester.aspx

it is voip speedtest that looks at things like packet loss, etc. This will show if the issue is with your isp.

You might just have a bad microcell though. If after 1 week I am having bad calls I will try to swap it out (once it goes national).

I have tried a repeater in the past. Unless you have good signal outside the house, it really does not work that great. I have bad signal inside/outside the house. Darn hills!

I tried the link that you gave me, and I got all greens with a 0% packet loss. The problem is definitely on AT&T's end. The forthcoming software update should fix this soon as the engineer I have talked to said that a lot of people in Charlotte are having this problem.

About the repeater, the thing is that I get a great signal on one, outside my house and upstairs, but the downstairs is 1 bar of EDGE. I think I'm going to get it, zip tie it to a gutter or mount it on the siding, and then run coax back into the house through holes drilled for my TV. If I end up doing this, which I most likely will, I'll tell how it goes.

 

[Benster]

Just an update from my marathon of training calls ....

The longest period of time I've been able to sustain a call over the microcell is a little over 100 minutes. For 3 times now, around the 90th minute the quality of the call starts to degrade slowly then it just craps out.

It is usually followed by a call where someone complains that I am choppy. Then the next call would be of the 90 minute to meltdown variety.

On the last call, I even unplugged the microcell hoping it would fail over to my regular 3G coverage, which it did, but the call quality did not improve and eventually crapped out like the other calls. It maybe bought me 10 extra minutes.

It seems like it is something on the AT&T side, not necessarily in my microcell at this point. I am now well over 700 minutes and I would have to say that for casual calls and calls of less than 60 minutes it works quite well, but I would not depend on it for a business solution at this point in time. Maybe there are some updates coming to solidify the infrastructure.

-Benster

 

[tpm1999]

I tried the link that you gave me, and I got all greens with a 0% packet loss. The problem is definitely on AT&T's end. The forthcoming software update should fix this soon as the engineer I have talked to said that a lot of people in Charlotte are having this problem.

About the repeater, the thing is that I get a great signal on one, outside my house and upstairs, but the downstairs is 1 bar of EDGE. I think I'm going to get it, zip tie it to a gutter or mount it on the siding, and then run coax back into the house through holes drilled for my TV. If I end up doing this, which I most likely will, I'll tell how it goes.

Good luck with the repeater. Keep in mind that you should keep the base station as far away from the antenna as possible. Also you may want to think about buying a drerctional (yagi) antenna specifically for the spectrum you are connecting to.

 

[hsk]

It has been about 10 days since there have been any updates from owners. How's everyone doing? Have there been any new sw updates? I am waiting patiently for it to make it to Austin. This will be perfect for my home office usage.

 

[dennisj00]

It's working but needs tweaking. I had 4 or 5 dropped calls last week (3 from the same person) and a few complaints of 'you're cutting out' to the point that I give my landline # if I expect the call to go more than a few minutes.

But at least I'm getting the calls instead of a 'missed' or voice mail the next day.

I have the microcell in the standard installation mode behind the router because I have my DSL modem in bridge mode and the router doing PPOE.

It was a pretty big ommission for them to suggest the 'Optimized' mode and the microcell not be able to do the PPOE login.

 

[hsk]

It's working but needs tweaking. I had 4 or 5 dropped calls last week (3 from the same person) and a few complaints of 'you're cutting out' to the point that I give my landline # if I expect the call to go more than a few minutes.

But at least I'm getting the calls instead of a 'missed' or voice mail the next day.

I have the microcell in the standard installation mode behind the router because I have my DSL modem in bridge mode and the router doing PPOE.

It was a pretty big ommission for them to suggest the 'Optimized' mode and the microcell not be able to do the PPOE login.

Thanks - seems there are still optimization tweaks they need to work through. I was with Sprint for years and was thinking about an Airave before I left and came to ATT. I don't recall ever reading about problems with Airave users on the forums (and I know someone who has one - plug & play, works great). Maybe Samsung knows something Cisco can't figure out??

 

[solideliquid]

So, it's almost November and still no date for nation wide launch? Since this device basically uses your own bandwith as a 3G signal, the usuall "the network can't handle it" line shouldn't apply here.

AT&T needs to release this sooner than later.

 

[AslamRasoi]

GPS antenna?

Hi everyone! I just got my shiny new microcell up and running and it's working great

However, it does take a while to acquire a GPS signal and sometimes loses it after a while. I noticed there's an antenna jack on the back of the microcell. Does anyone know where I might find the appropriate antenna?

Thanks so much!

 

[dennisj00]

eBay or google 'gps antenna' -- just be sure the connector matches (and doesn't require power). The second or third hit shows how to make your own if you're into that.

Or call ATT support, they may have some special or rebate. I'm sure people can't always put it near a window.

There's also a method I've seen that doesn't use the connector but a 'passive radiator' positioned near the units antenna.

 

[sharkzfanz]

I'm paying enough for 3g services now. I can't see why any of you bought this instead of write the FCC complaining of ATTs poor 3g service and charging you twice to get what they will not deliver. I have 4 3g phones and expect 3g service - it's what I and you are paying for. To add a device in my home or business, to put the load they can't carry on cable - I know if I was a cable provider I'd block that sucker like ATT blocked Slingmedia. And ATT would be heading to court for loading my ISP.

So am I reading this right? Your saying you pay for 3G service? Are you saying you pay XXX for your plan but if you had a 2G phone you would pay XXX? I would say the argument at best is you paid for a 3G phone and aren't getting coverage... That's not entirely ATT's issue as they did not force your hand on the phone.... Unless your on something special 3G is not like data you don't pay extra for it if your in the coverage area your in the coverage area.... And if not your not...

 

[sdlevi27]

So, it's almost November and still no date for nation wide launch? Since this device basically uses your own bandwith as a 3G signal, the usuall "the network can't handle it" line shouldn't apply here.

AT&T needs to release this sooner than later.

Have you read the issues in this thread? Those of us who have the device in the pilot areas experienced several annoying-to-major issues with the device. AT&T is trying to get those fixed before rolling it out to the rest of the country. I'm sure they want to release it sooner than later, but they don't want to roll it out and handle thousands of user issues per day.

 

[gadgetinspector]

I set up a Microcell at home. I have ATT DSL and POTS line. I entered that number when I set my location on the activation page.

Questions for other owners:

1. Where did you find the optional unlimited calling plan? I looked under Manage Features and it's not there. Did you have to call ATT to set it up? I can't even find the pricing anywhere in the My Wireless portal.

2. Does anyone's iPhone work with location services, like Google Maps? With the microcell off, iPhone location works great. With the microcell on, my iPhone can't determine a location. Some iPhone apps require location, so this is a bit of a problem.
*** Updated 11/2 - my location now works fine. Took about a week for it to register, I guess.

3. Does anyone have a retail source for the GPS antenna? I'd like to put the microcell in the middle of the house so the radius of coverage evenly covers the whole house. Otherwise, if you put it near a window, the far corner of the house will be on the fringe.

4. Anyone know what inbound/outbound network ports it's using to the Internet? I'd like to set up QoS on my router to make sure it has priority over email, web browsing, etc. I have done that via my Linksys router setting the IP for the microcell in the DMZ passthrough, and then set the physical port on the router and the MAC address as prioritized - but I would rather prioritize traffic at the network port level, like I do with our Vonage service. I suppose I could run a packet sniffer to determine what ports, but I'm hoping someone else has already done that.
*** Updated 11/21 - Uses HTTPS, NTP, and IPSEC to make a connection. Note some firewalls and corporate networks do not allow outbound IPSEC by default.

FYI - they are expanding the coverage. A week ago, my address wasn't accepted on the activation portal, and now it is.
*** Updated 11/2 - my office address wasn't valid last week, but now it is too. This is getting better all the time...

 

[tpm1999]

I set up a Microcell at home. I have ATT DSL and POTS line. I entered that number when I set my location on the activation page.

Questions for other owners:

1. Where did you find the optional unlimited calling plan? I looked under Manage Features and it's not there. Did you have to call ATT to set it up? I can't even find the pricing anywhere in the My Wireless portal.

2. Does anyone's iPhone work with location services, like Google Maps? With the microcell off, iPhone location works great. With the microcell on, my iPhone can't determine a location. Some iPhone apps require location, so this is a bit of a problem.

3. Does anyone have a retail source for the GPS antenna? I'd like to put the microcell in the middle of the house so the radius of coverage evenly covers the whole house. Otherwise, if you put it near a window, the far corner of the house will be on the fringe.

4. Anyone know what inbound/outbound network ports it's using to the Internet? I'd like to set up QoS on my router to make sure it has priority over email, web browsing, etc. I have done that via my Linksys router setting the IP for the microcell in the DMZ passthrough, and then set the physical port on the router and the MAC address as prioritized - but I would rather prioritize traffic at the network port level, like I do with our Vonage service. I suppose I could run a packet sniffer to determine what ports, but I'm hoping someone else has already done that.

FYI - they are expanding the coverage. A week ago, my address wasn't accepted on the activation portal, and now it is.

Are you pretty far from the accepted test areas? I am just trying to see how far they are expanding the trials...As usual ATT has been quiet on this.

 

[smchan]

Has anyone been able to get pricing other than the 19.99 per month for unlimited minutes? I know there was document showing a 9.99 price and free depending on if you had AT&T Home Phone and AT&T Internet Service. However, the two stores I have talked to said the only option was the 19.99 price.

I bought one yesterday and signed up for an AT&T land line and DSL service. Unfortunately, the unlimited calling plan is still $20.

If anyone receives the free unlimited calling plan in the Raleigh area, please speak up.

Sam

 

[labman]

I'm really hoping

they roll this out by the end of the year! or at least close too that saving my customer referral cards for this baby most expire in January in which case guess I will have too spend them on something else in the store. but it seems fair that the cards get used to allow me 5 bars all the time in my house.

 

[sdlevi27]

I set up a Microcell at home. I have ATT DSL and POTS line. I entered that number when I set my location on the activation page.

Questions for other owners:

1. Where did you find the optional unlimited calling plan? I looked under Manage Features and it's not there. Did you have to call ATT to set it up? I can't even find the pricing anywhere in the My Wireless portal.

2. Does anyone's iPhone work with location services, like Google Maps? With the microcell off, iPhone location works great. With the microcell on, my iPhone can't determine a location. Some iPhone apps require location, so this is a bit of a problem.

3. Does anyone have a retail source for the GPS antenna? I'd like to put the microcell in the middle of the house so the radius of coverage evenly covers the whole house. Otherwise, if you put it near a window, the far corner of the house will be on the fringe.

4. Anyone know what inbound/outbound network ports it's using to the Internet? I'd like to set up QoS on my router to make sure it has priority over email, web browsing, etc. I have done that via my Linksys router setting the IP for the microcell in the DMZ passthrough, and then set the physical port on the router and the MAC address as prioritized - but I would rather prioritize traffic at the network port level, like I do with our Vonage service. I suppose I could run a packet sniffer to determine what ports, but I'm hoping someone else has already done that.

FYI - they are expanding the coverage. A week ago, my address wasn't accepted on the activation portal, and now it is.

1 - I think only reps (phone or store) can add the feature at this point.
2 - The first week my location was wrong using Google Maps. Then suddenly one day it started using my actual address.
4 - Not sure which ports it uses. Does your router support QoS by MAC address or IP?

 

[sdlevi27]

Anyone else receive a survey from AT&T about the microcell via e-mail this morning? They asked some pretty specific questions (issues during setup, activation, use, etc).

 

[dennisj00]

Yep, they're probably not going to like my answers for the $10.

Also, using Vista / IE7, about halfway through the survey, a long page couldn't be completed (wouldn't scroll down) and all you could do was back up and save it.

Fortunately, I saw 'Your survey has been saved, bookmark this link and continue' or something to that affect.

Sent the link to my laptop with Win7 / IE8 and continued on.

 

[tmackgt89]

Time Capsule IP Range issue with Microcell?

I just bought a new MicroCell from my local AT&T store and connected it last night. It quickly got a GPS lock but the 3g indicator lights continues to flash green all night. AT&T Tech Support is looking at it but to this point see no reason why it won't sync up.

A Cisco Engineer friend of mine says it may be an issue with my Time Capsule and the fact it uses IP addresses in the 10.0.1.x range. I intend to try changing the TC to use 192.168.1.x tonight but my question to those of you out there using the MicroCell and Time Capsule is are any of you having problems or did you encounter any issues using either the Time Capsule or AEBS??

Thanks in advance for the help!!

 

[Benster]

I just bought a new MicroCell from my local AT&T store and connected it last night. It quickly got a GPS lock but the 3g indicator lights continues to flash green all night. AT&T Tech Support is looking at it but to this point see no reason why it won't sync up.

A Cisco Engineer friend of mine says it may be an issue with my Time Capsule and the fact it uses IP addresses in the 10.0.1.x range. I intend to try changing the TC to use 192.168.1.x tonight but my question to those of you out there using the MicroCell and Time Capsule is are any of you having problems or did you encounter any issues using either the Time Capsule or AEBS??

Thanks in advance for the help!!

Not sure where you are located, but my Microcell had a number of issues last night. I'm in Huntersville and I think that the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida was causing a bunch of issues. Restarting my Microcell to try to fix my issues took well of two hours to sync which was the longest time it's taken since I've gotten it.

-Benster