cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter User Guide

: June 15, 2024
: Cradlepoint

Table of Contents

cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter
Product Information
Product Usage Instructions
Introduction
Available Models
Before You Begin
Setup
Troubleshooting
Additional Resources
**Cradlepoint Product Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter

cradlepoint-W1855-Series-5G-Wideband-Adapter-product

Product Information

Specifications

Model: CRADLEPOINT W1855-5GC MODEL: S5A312A
Cellular Antenna Connectors: N-type sockets (4 connectors)
2.5 GbE PoE Ethernet Port
2.5 GbE Ethernet Port
SIM Slots: 4FF-sized (cover shown removed)
Kensington Lock Port
Bluetooth Antenna
Grounding Connector

Product Usage Instructions

Location Considerations
The Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter is designed for exterior mounting and should be installed by a professional. When selecting a location for mounting, consider the following:

Ensure that the mounting surface is clear of obstructions or objects that may interfere with the antennas, signal reception, or cables.
Position the device in a way that allows optimal signal reception.
Ensure there is plenty of airflow for ventilation.
For pole-mounted installations, ensure the adapter meets the separation distances required to withstand hurricane-force winds (up to 137mph sustained).

IMPORTANT:
The W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter requires increased separation distances from other networking hardware. It is recommended to have the adapter installed by a professional. If you need assistance with installation or locating a professional installer, please contact Cradlepoint Sales and Support.

Ethernet Cable Considerations
For optimal wired network performance, Cradlepoint recommends using shielded twisted-pair (S/FTP) Ethernet network cabling and connectors (Cat5/Cat6/Cat6a/Cat7a).

SIM Card Setup for Wireless Connectivity
In order to have wireless broadband connectivity, you need to add a wireless broadband data plan to your adapter. Contact your network provider to provision a SIM card that is compatible with Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapters.

Setup
Follow these steps for general setup:

Prepare tools and adapter for installation: Depending on your selected installation site, you may need the following tools:
- Proper lightning protection (not included in the box)
- [Other tools specific to your installation site]
Check Box Contents: Ensure that all the necessary components are included in the box.
Insert an Activated 4FF-sized SIM: Insert a compatible, activated SIM card into one of the SIM slots on the adapter.
Attach Outdoor Mounting Backplate: Attach the outdoor mounting backplate to the adapter.
Install the Outdoor Mounting Bracket: Install the outdoor mounting bracket to the desired location following the professional installation guidelines.
Attach Antennas: Attach the antennas to the cellular antenna connectors on the adapter.
Attach Adapter to Outdoor Mounting Bracket: Attach the adapter to the outdoor mounting bracket securely.

FAQ

Q: What models does this guide apply to?
This guide applies to the CRADLEPOINT W1855-5GC MODEL: S5A312A.
Q: Do I need professional installation for the W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter?
Yes, Cradlepoint recommends professional installation for the W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter due to increased separation distances from other networking hardware. For assistance with installation or finding a professional installer, please contact Cradlepoint Sales and Support.
Q: What type of Ethernet cable should I use for optimal wired network performance?
Cradlepoint recommends using shielded twisted-pair (S/FTP) Ethernet network cabling and connectors (Cat5/Cat6/Cat6a/Cat7a) for optimal performance.
Q: How do I set up wireless connectivity with the adapter?
To set up wireless connectivity, you need to add a wireless broadband data plan to your adapter. Contact your network provider to provision a compatible SIM card for use with Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapters.

Introduction

This document provides a brief overview of the Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter, discusses what’s inside the box, and provides basic setup and installation instructions.

Intended Audience
This article is intended for professional networking hardware installers. It provides basic knowledge and should be used only as a reference guide for installing the Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter. Due to the unique nature of each installation, the potential for RF exposure, and enhanced separation requirements, customers must have a professional install their 5G hardware. This guide is intended only to provide best practices. Refer to the Cradlepoint Product Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability Disclaimer section for further information.

Available Models

This guide applies to the following products:

CRADLEPOINT W1855-5GC MODEL: S5A312A

Before You Begin

Read the following before setting up your Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter.

External Device Components

$cradlepoint-W1855-Series-5G-Wideband-Adapter-fig- $1$$

Cellular Antenna Connectors (N-type sockets) – shipping covers shown (2 of 4)
2.5 GbE PoE Ethernet Port
2.5 GbE Ethernet Port
SIM Slots (cover shown removed)
Kensington Lock Port
Cellular Antenna Connectors (N-type sockets) – covers not shown (2 of 4)
Bluetooth Antenna
Grounding Connector

Location Considerations

The Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter is purpose-built for exterior mounting and should be installed by a professional. The following includes considerations when identifying a location for mounting.

Ensure that the mounting surface is clear of any obstructions or objects that may interfere with the antennas, signal reception, or cables.
Position the device for optimal signal reception.
Ensure plenty of airflow for ventilation.
For the adapter to maintain its rating against hurricane-force winds (up to 137mph sustained), the following must be met when pole mounted:
- The pole must be trade size schedule 40 pipe, rigid conduit (steel or aluminum), or EMT pipe that is at least 1.5” outside diameter (OD). The use of larger OD pipe is supported but requires customer supplied hose clamps (included hose clamps support 1.5” – 2.5” OD pipe).
- The height of the pole above the anchor point can be no higher than 10 feet.
For more information refer to the Safety, Regulatory, and Warranty Guide insert that came with your device.

IMPORTANT:
The W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter requires increased separation distances with other networking hardware. Therefore, Cradlepoint recommends that all 5G adapters be installed by a professional. For assistance with installation or in locating a professional installer, contact Cradlepoint Sales and Support.

Ethernet Cable Considerations

Cradlepoint recommends shielded twisted-pair (S/FTP) Ethernet network cabling and connectors (Cat5/Cat6/Cat6a/Cat7a) for optimal wired network performance.

SIM Card Setup for Wireless Connectivity

A wireless broadband data plan must be added to your adapter for wireless broadband connectivity. Network providers must provision a SIM to provide wireless broadband data plans compatible for use with Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapters. Contact your network provider for further details.

Setup

The following steps provide general setup instructions.

Prepare tools and adapter for installation

WARNING:
When connecting this equipment (with or without power over ethernet supplied) to devices that are mounted on the exterior of the building, it is recommended to include proper lightning protection (not included in box) to prevent damage to the equipment.

The following tools are needed to complete the installation, depending on your selected installation site:

Flat-bladed screwdriver (for removing dust covers and for pole clamps)
Socket set and driver (for pole clamps)
Drill and drill bit (for exterior wall mounting)

Prepare the adapter for the Ethernet cable connection by unscrewing and removing one or both Ethernet port dust covers, depending on your planned installation. Choose the easiest time for you during the installation to attach the cable glands.

$cradlepoint-W1855-Series-5G-Wideband-Adapter-fig- $2$$

Installing Cable glands
Attach the cable glands to Ethernet cables without protective boots:

Remove the threaded gland cap, rubber seal, and seal clamp from the assembled cable gland.
Slide the threaded gland cap onto the Ethernet cable.
Slide the seal clamp over the Ethernet cable, and then press the Ethernet connector through the rubber seal. Ethernet cables that include protective boots will not work with this type of cable gland.
Slide the Ethernet cable through the threaded end of the cable gland.
Fit the rubber seal back into the seal clamp, and then slide the rubber seal and clamp into the threaded end of the cable gland.
When ready, screw the threaded end of the cable gland into the threaded socket over the Ethernet port. Tighten so that the rubber washer is firmly engaged against the outside of the W1855.
Slide the threaded cap over the assembly and tighten it to firmly clamp the rubber seal around the Ethernet cable and protect against the elements.

Connecting the PoE Injector
If you plan on using the included PoE injector, install it inside the building and make sure that the connections are protected against lightning. Connect a WAN cable to the PoE injector’s IN port, and run an Ethernet cable from the PoE injector’s OUT port to the adapter’s installation site.

When you are ready to power the PoE injector, attach the power cable and then plug the other end into a power source.

STEP 1: Check box contents
Check that the following was shipped in the box:

STEP 2: Insert an activated 4FF-sized SIM

Unscrew and remove the SIM cover of the W1855 Adapter.
Insert a 4FF-sized SIM into the slot marked with metal contacts down and notch in. Press the SIM in until it clicks into place.
To remove it, depress the SIM until it clicks and slides out a short way, and then slide it out of the slot.
(OPTIONAL) Insert a second 4FF-sized SIM into the slot marked for secondary/backup.
Replace the SIM cover.

STEP 3: Attach Outdoor Mounting Backplate

Lay the adapter on a work surface, with the back facing up.
Align the holes of the Outdoor Mounting Backplate with the screw holes on the adapter. Make sure that the extender is toward the Ethernet port side.
Attach the Outdoor Mounting Backplate with four screws.

STEP 4: Install the Outdoor Mounting Bracket
There are two methods for installing the Outdoor Mounting Bracket: Wall mounting or pole mounting.

Wall mounting

Remove the pole mounting clamps from the Outdoor Mounting Bracket, if needed.
Hold the Outdoor Mounting Bracket against an outdoor wall and mark the drill holes.
NOTE: You can place the Outdoor Mounting Bracket either horizontally or vertically.
Place the bracket aside, and then drill the holes with an appropriate drill bit.
Insert wall anchors.
Drive four wall mount screws into the anchors, but leave a short length of each screw protruding.
Hang the bracket on the screws and then slide the bracket so the narrow portion of the screw holes engage the mounting screws.
Tighten the wall mount screws the rest of the way.

Pole mounting

Open the two preinstalled pole mounting clamps using a flathead screwdriver or socket driver.
NOTE: You can install the Outdoor Mounting Bracket either horizontally or vertically. If installing horizontally, move the preinstalled pole mounting clamps to the appropriate spots on the Outdoor Mounting Bracket.
Wrap the pole mounting clamps around the pole at the appropriate height and then tighten the clamps.

STEP 5: Attach antennas

Remove the four covers from the SMA connectors.
Remove the plastic port protectors from the antennas, and slide off the cardboard sleeves.
Attach the four Outdoor Sub 6 GHz 5G/LTE antennas to the four SMA connectors marked . $cradlepoint-W1855-Series-5G-Wideband-Adapter-fig- $9$$

The antennas screw onto the SMA connectors. Be sure that you align the antennas carefully to avoid cross-threading the connection. Tighten until the finger is tight.

STEP 6: Attach adapter to Outdoor Mounting Bracket

Align the studs on the Outdoor Backplate with the holes on the Outdoor Mounting Bracket, such that both the backplate and bracket extenders are aligned.
Fit the studs through the holes, and then slide the assembly so that it is locked into place. The two extenders should mate closely together. Antennas, cables, and cable glands are not shown.
Connect the extenders with the captive thumbscrew by pressing it in and turning until it is tight.

Troubleshooting

If the adapter takes longer than 5 minutes to connect to the Internet, you may need to log into the local UI of the device to make configuration changes or start the troubleshooting process. You must be physically co-located with the adapter to do this. Refer to No Internet or Connection Issues for more information. Once the adapter connects to the Internet, it should then connect to your NetCloud Manager account and start its configuration download.

Additional Resources

W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter Webpage
W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter Data Sheet

Help and Support

Terms of Service

**Cradlepoint Product Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability

Disclaimer**

Cradlepoint, Inc. (“Cradlepoint”) does not warrant that the hardware will work properly in all environments or applications, and makes no warranty or representation, either implied or expressed, concerning the quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose of the Cradlepoint W1855 Series 5G Wideband Adapter even when installed under this installation guide.

This installation guide is provided “AS IS,” without any warranty of any kind. Without limiting the foregoing, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law Cradlepoint expressly disclaims all representations, warranties, and conditions, whether express, implied, statutory, or otherwise, for this installation guide, including without limitation any warranty of title, non- infringement, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. While Cradlepoint has made every effort to ensure this installation guide is accurate, Cradlepoint disclaims liability for any inaccuracies or omissions that may have occurred and shall not be liable for any adverse results caused, in whole or in part, by the installer’s reliance upon the instructions in this installation guide. Information in this installation guide is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Cradlepoint. Cradlepoint assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may be contained in this installation guide. Cradlepoint does not commit to update or keep current the information in this installation guide and reserves the right to make improvements to this installation guide and/or to the products described in this installation guide, at any time without notice.

If you find information in this installation guide that is incorrect, misleading, or incomplete, Cradlepoint would appreciate your comments and suggestions.

Installer Responsibility
Cradlepoint hereby disclaims any liability for the failure of the installer to install the hardware properly and for any other acts and omissions of the installer. By using this installation guide, you agree to indemnify and hold Cradlepoint harmless from and against any, liabilities, losses, damages, costs, and expenses (including without limitation attorneys’ fees and costs) incurred by Cradlepoint arising out of or in connection with any installation work that is done other than under the instructions in this installation guide.

Limitation of Liability
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT WILL CRADLEPOINT BE LIABLE TO YOU OR ANYONE CLAIMING THROUGH OR UNDER YOU FOR ANY LOST PROFITS, EQUIPMENT DOWNTIME, OR LOSS OF DATA OR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY, OR FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, HOWEVER, CAUSED AND UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, ARISING IN ANY WAY IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR INSTALLATION ACTIVITIES, EVEN IF CRADLEPOINT HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE. SOME JURISDICTIONS (SUCH AS THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY) DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE AGGREGATE LIABILITY OF CRADLEPOINT AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES ARISING UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE PRODUCT, HOWEVER ARISING, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF EVENTS, OCCURRENCES, OR CLAIMS GIVING RISE TO LIABILITY, EXCEED THE PRICE PAID BY THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF THE PRODUCT. THE FOREGOING LIMITATIONS WILL APPLY EVEN IF THE ABOVE-STATED REMEDY FAILS ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE.