PD-1902 Ranger DVR: Using Self-Provided 4G Data

The PD-1902 Ranger DVR can be purchased with a built-in 4G LTE modem. To provide 4G cellular data to the Ranger, customers can choose between the Pro-Vision data plan or use their existing data provider. 

There have been two 4G modems included in the Ranger DVR, depending on the date of purchase: 

1. March 2022 to June 2024: Rangers with serial numbers 2203-2406 use a Verizon nano-SIM modem installed directly into the slot on the front of the device, with the SIM's contacts facing up. This model is only compatible with a Verizon SIM card. 
   
2. July 2024 to Present: Rangers with serial numbers 2407 and higher use a nano-SIM modem installed into a tray that fits into the front of the DVR. This modem is compatible with any SIM card and is the current production modem. 
   
   

This article details selecting a data provider and configuring the Ranger's 4G functionality for devices purchased from July 2024 onward (serial numbers 2407 and higher). 

Selecting a Data Provider

Two factors should be considered when selecting a provider:

• Coverage area: Where the cameras will operate and whether the provider has reliable regional service. For more information, see 4G Data Coverage.
• Usage and cost: Some providers may have more cost-effective plans depending on the device's intended use:
  • • For regular offloading of video files, consider selecting a higher data plan.
    • For the occasional use of live features, a lower data plan will likely be sufficient, as very little data will be consumed.

Getting SIM cards and Connection Information

Once a data provider is selected, data lines will be created for each device/Ranger DVR. Each line will have an associated SIM number and connect to the provider's Access Point Name (APN).

The data provider must supply their APN and a physical SIM card for each service line. The Ranger requires a Nano SIM, so the provider must send a Nano or multi-SIM. A multi-SIM is a precut card that can be used in one of three sizes (Standard, Micro, and Nano).

The card typically comes in a credit card-sized plastic holder. Press the smallest portion of the card to snap out the Nano SIM. 

The provider's plan Access Point Name (APN) is a device's internet access path, which must be configured into each DVR. For example, Verizon Wireless uses the APN "vzwinternet" for general internet usage.

Installing the SIM card

1. Document the SIM card and Ranger serial numbers.
   • • To facilitate identification, add the Ranger serial number to the SIM card's "name" field on the data provider's site. 
2. Ensure the Ranger is disconnected or powered off.
   1. • The front LED lights should be off. If the device is installed in a vehicle, turn the vehicle off and wait until the LED lights turn off, or disconnect the DVR's power cable. 
3. Locate the SIM tray on the front of the DVR unit. Press into the small hole in the tray (approximately 1/8") using a paperclip or SIM removal tool. The tray will pop out of the front of the DVR.
   
   Note: DVR units produced prior to July 2024 utilize a different SIM card slot and require a different installation procedure.
4. Remove the tray and install the SIM card with the contacts facing downward. The SIM card's notch should align with the angled corner of the SIM card tray.
    
5. Slide the tray with SIM back into the slot. Press the tray until it is flush with the front of the DVR.
   

Configuring and Enabling 4G

1. Power the Ranger DVR (the status lights on the front of the device should be on).
2. Connect to DVR via Wi-Fi or LAN and navigate to the Ranger's webpage.
   • • For detailed instructions, see Wi-Fi Connection Instructions or LAN/Ethernet Connection Instructions.
3. Click the "Settings" menu in the upper right corner, then select "4G LTE." If prompted, enter the login credentials. (Default username: admin / Default password: doesitall)
   
4. On the 4G LTE Settings page, verify that the Modem status is Loaded and the Sim Card status is Inserted.
   
5. Locate the Carrier field and select "Other" or the appropriate carrier for the SIM card.
   
6. Locate the APN setting. Remove the existing APN from the field next to it and type the APN provided by the 4G data provider.
   • • For example, the APN "vzwinternet" for Verizon Wireless is shown below.
       
7. Turn on the 4G LTE switch.
   
8. Press Apply at the bottom of the page to save the new APN setting.
   
9. The DVR will attempt to connect to the 4G based on the information provided; this could take 60 seconds or more. Once connected, the DVR will show its connection state in multiple places.
   • • Internet status on 4G LTE page: When connected to the internet, the device will show connected.
       • • If the device also uses a Wi-Fi connection, this status may reflect the internet connection through Wi-Fi.
           
     • Network status on 4G LTE page: This will display Currently on 4G/LTE when the device is connected over 4G.
       • • If the device also uses a Wi-Fi connection, this may show "Currently on Wi-Fi" as a Wi-Fi connection takes priority over 4G data/internet path.
           
     • Connection icon on top navigation bar: When connected to 4G, the DVR will display a green mobile device icon in the top navigation bar.