2: Introduction
Configuring a GSM (3G) modem on a GW2040 Series Router
© Virtual Access Ltd.
Issue: 1.5
Page 5 of 34
2
Introduction
2.1
3G overview
3G is the third generation of mobile phone standards and technology. It is based on the
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) family of standards under the International
Mobile Telecommunications programme, IMT-2000.
3G technologies enable network operators to offer users a wider range of more advanced
services while achieving greater network capacity through improved spectral efficiency.
Services include wide-area wireless voice telephony, video calls, and broadband wireless
data, all in a mobile environment.
The GW2040 Series router contains a GSM (Global System for Mobile communications)
3G wireless modem. The modem in connection with a SIM card establishes a WAN
connection to the Internet.
The GW2040 Series router supports a maximum download speed of 7.2 Mbps and a
maximum upload speed of 384 kbps.
2.2
Typical uses of the GSM (3G) modem
You can use the GSM (3G) modem on the GW2040 Series in two ways.
You can create a primary WAN link over the GSM (3G) modem.
Figure 1: A primary WAN link over the 3G modem
You can use the GSM (3G) modem as a backup WAN link. If the primary interface
link fails, the GW2040 Series router uses its GSM (3G) modem to automatically
route traffic across the Internet via its alternative interface. This set up is not
covered in this document. For further information contact Virtual Access.
