Peplink Balance 20X LoRaWAN (with FlexModule Mini)

Peplink’s Balance 20X is an SD-WAN branch router with an option to add LoRaWAN® gateway functionality using a LoRaWAN FlexModule Mini.

The Balance 20X delivers excellent routing throughput with an embedded cellular modem, making it an easy-to-use, all-in-one router for indoor deployments. Its installation and configuration are made simple through a web-based user-friendly interface.

The gateway supports both LoRa Basics™ Station and the Semtech UDP Packet Forwarder. Keep in mind that using Lora Basics™ Station is preferred.

For scalable deployments, Peplink’s in-house device management system, InControl can also be used.

Prerequisites

1. The Things Stack account with user rights to add gateways.
2. A Balance 20X with the LoRaWAN FlexModule Mini.
3. A computer connected to the Balance 20X for configuration.

Registration

Create a gateway by following the instructions for Adding Gateways.

In the registration process, you will need the gateway’s EUI. The Peplink 20X’s EUI can be found in several ways:

1. On the LoRaWAN FlexModule Mini label.
2. On the LoRaWAN FlexModule Mini packing box.
3. Via B20X web-based configuration page, under LoRaWAN section on the Advanced tab. See image below for a reference.

Gateway Setup

This section demonstrates how to set up the Peplink Balance 20X using LoRa Basics™ Station.

On your Peplink router’s web admin page, go to the Advanced tab along the top bar.

Find LoRaWAN settings on the left and tick the Enable checkbox.

Download a common root SSL certificate used in The Things Stack. For this guide, we used ISRG Root X1 certificate.

Now configure the following settings:

• Protocol: Basics™ Station
• Server: select Configuration and Update Server (CUPS) and enter the address of your The Things Stack deployment
• Server Certificate (pem encoded): paste the ISRG Root X1 certificate you previously downloaded
• Gateway Authorization: select Token and paste your gateway’s API key (check the Create Gateway API Key section)
• Network Mode: Public
• Antenna Gain: enter antenna Gain (2dBi for Peplink Balance 20X gateway)
• Cable Loss: enter cable loss if there is a cable between antenna and LoRa module

Click Save and Apply Changes.

Monitor Event Log

For debugging purposes go to Dashboard tab, then click on the Status button in the LoRaWAN section. This will open LoRaWAN Status page.

Next to the Event log press Click to show. This will open the LoRaWAN Event Log page. See images below for reference.