5G Module Details

Primary Module: Qualcomm Snapdragon X55 5G Modem

Chipset: Qualcomm IPQ6010 (4x ARM Cortex-A53 @ 1.8GHz)

RAM: 512MB DDR3

Flash: 128MB NAND Flash

Wi-Fi Chipset: Qualcomm QCN5024 (2.4GHz) + QCN5054 (5GHz)

Module Details: Quectel RG500Q-EA

Model: RG500Q-EA

Manufacturer: Quectel Wireless Solutions

5G Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon X55

Form Factor: M.2 (NGFF)

Dimensions: 52.0mm × 30.0mm × 2.3mm

Interface: PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1, I2S, GPIO, UART

Operating Voltage: 3.3V ±5%

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

Certifications: GCF, CE, FCC, PTCRB, JATE, TELEC, NCC, SRRC

Supported Bands

Performance Specifications

5G Download Speed: Up to 2.5 Gbps (theoretical)

5G Upload Speed: Up to 650 Mbps (theoretical)

4G Download Speed: Up to 1.6 Gbps (Cat 20)

4G Upload Speed: Up to 200 Mbps

Wi-Fi Speed: AX1800 (1201Mbps @ 5GHz + 574Mbps @ 2.4GHz)

Concurrent Users: Up to 32 devices

Known Module Issues

Common Issues:

• Modem can't detect 5G networks
• Modem reboots during 5G speed tests (Ookla Speedtest)
• Slow speeds in 5G coverage areas
• Unstable internet with frequent disconnections
• Sahara error in system logs
• Russia: Provider blocking issues - requires firmware downgrade to R11
• Module stuck in emergency download mode (no current solution)
• Bricked modules during upgrade process

Download Module Firmware:
Google Drive: Module Firmware Collection

Module Firmware Upgrade Procedure

1. Flash QWRT China firmware: This firmware contains necessary tools for module upgrade
2. Connect LAN cable: From your laptop to the yellow LAN port on the modem
3. Open WinSCP: Connect to 192.168.1.1 (username: root,password: password by default)
4. Prepare module files:
   • Extract the module firmware package
   • Choose the appropriate version (R13 for most users, R11 for Russia)
   • Drag the entire "update_module" folder to /tmp directory in WinSCP
5. Open PuTTY: Connect to 192.168.1.1 (port 22) and login as root
6. Run upgrade command:
   QFirehose -f /tmp Execute the upgrade command
7. Wait for completion: The process takes 2-5 minutes. Do not disconnect power!
8. Verify upgrade: After reboot, use AT commands to check version:
   microcom /dev/ttyUSB2 Access modem terminal ATI Check firmware version

What is UART?

UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter) is a hardware communication protocol that allows serial communication between devices. It's essential for:

• Low-level debugging and recovery
• Accessing bootloader and system console
• Flashing firmware when other methods fail
• Diagnosing boot issues

UART Connection Details

Baud Rate: 115200

Data Bits: 8

Parity: None

Stop Bits: 1

Flow Control: None

Voltage Level: 3.3V TTL

UART Pin Layout (J6 Connector)

[1] [2] [3] [4]
 •   •   •   •
 |   |   |   |
GND RX  TX VCC(3.3V)
                

Required Tools

• USB to TTL Serial Converter (3.3V compatible)
• Dupont jumper wires (Female-Female)
• Small Phillips screwdriver
• Plastic prying tools
• Terminal software (PuTTY, TeraTerm, etc.)

Connection Steps

1. Power off the AW1000 and remove the back cover
2. Locate the J6 UART connector near the main board
3. Connect wires:
   USB-TTL GND → Pin 1 (GND) USB-TTL RX → Pin 3 (TX) USB-TTL TX → Pin 2 (RX)
4. Configure terminal: 115200, 8N1, No flow control
5. Power on the device while monitoring serial output

Boot Process Output

Common UART Commands

AW1000 UART Flashing Procedure

1. Turn off modem completely before starting
2. Install required software:
   • UART module drivers for your PC/laptop
   • TFTPD server (tftpd.exe)
   • Serial terminal (putty.exe)
3. Connect module to UART points on AW1000:
   - Ground (UART module) → Ground (modem) - RX (UART module) → TX (modem) - TX (UART module) → RX (modem)
   WARNING: Only connect these 3 points. Be careful with the last right point on modem - it's 5V VCC and should NOT be connected.
4. Connect LAN cable to the yellow LAN port on modem
5. Set static IP on laptop:
   IP: 192.168.1.2 Subnet: 255.255.255.0 Gateway: 192.168.1.1
6. Open TFTPD application:
   • Browse to AW1000 UART folder (download from provided link)
   • Reference pictures available in the download
   • Download link: Google Drive Folder
7. Open PuTTY:
   - Select "Serial" connection type - Set speed to 115200 - Select COM port detected in Device Manager
8. Turn on modem while rapidly tapping space bar on PC
9. Run UART commands:
   1-tftpboot aw1000-mibib.bin 2-flash 0:MIBIB 3-tftpboot factory.bin 4-flash rootfs
10. Wait for completion: Process will stop when successful. Turn off modem and power back on.

Device Overview

The Arcadyan AW1000 is Telstra's flagship 5G home modem, designed for high-speed internet access in areas with 5G coverage. It combines advanced 5G connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 technology to deliver exceptional performance for modern home networking needs.

Technical Specifications

Physical Specifications

Connectivity & Ports

Ethernet Ports: 2 × Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps)

USB Port: 1 × USB 3.0 (for file sharing/storage)

SIM Card: Nano-SIM slot (supports 5G/4G/3G)

External Antennas: 2 × TS-9 connectors for external 5G antennas

Wi-Fi Antennas: 4 × internal antennas (2.4GHz + 5GHz)

Supported Features

1. Carrier Aggregation (up to 5CC)
2. MIMO 4×4 (5G), 2×2 (Wi-Fi)
3. Beamforming (Wi-Fi 6)
4. MU-MIMO support
5. WPA3 security
6. IPv4/IPv6 dual-stack
7. UPnP, DMZ, Port forwarding
8. Guest network
9. Parental controls
10. VPN passthrough

Pre-Installation Requirements

• Backup Original Firmware: Always create a full backup before flashing
• Stable Power Supply: Use UPS if possible to prevent power interruption
• Wired Connection: Use Ethernet, not Wi-Fi for flashing
• UART Access: Set up UART connection for recovery purposes
• Compatible Firmware: Ensure you're using the correct firmware variant

Method 1: Web Interface Flashing

1. Access Web Interface: Navigate to http://192.168.0.1
2. Login: Use admin credentials (usually admin/admin)
3. Find Firmware Update: Look for "System" or "Administration" section
4. Select Firmware: Choose your downloaded .bin file
5. Start Flashing: Click "Update" and wait (DO NOT POWER OFF)
6. Wait for Reboot: Device will restart automatically after flashing

Method 2: UART Recovery Mode

1. Connect UART: Set up UART connection as described in UART section
2. Power On: Boot device while monitoring serial output
3. Interrupt Boot: Press any key during 3-second countdown
4. Set up TFTP: Configure TFTP server on your computer
5. Load Firmware: Use U-Boot commands to download and flash firmware
6. Verify Flash: Check that firmware was written correctly
7. Boot New Firmware: Reset device to boot into OpenWRT

TFTP Server Setup

Common Issues & Solutions

Diagnostic Commands

Log File Locations

System Log: /var/log/messages

Kernel Log: dmesg

Network Log: /var/log/network.log

Wireless Log: /var/log/hostapd.log

Real-time Monitoring: logread -f

Factory Reset Procedures

1. Software Reset: Use OpenWRT web interface → System → Backup/Flash Firmware → Reset
2. Hardware Reset: Hold reset button for 30 seconds while powered on
3. UART Reset: Use U-Boot commands to erase configuration partition
4. Complete Reflash: Flash original Telstra firmware to restore factory state

Essential Tools

Useful Scripts

Network Analysis Tools

These are some of the developers from Malaysia who have collaborated in researching and developing firmware for the AW1000 modem. Each of their works has different tuning and unique advantages, especially in optimized CPU usage, user-friendliness, and suitability for VPN users. Below are the flash scripts for each developer if you're interested in using their firmware. You'll need to pay and register to get access to their firmware. You can contact them directly if you're interested or have any questions.

Here, we're sharing a list of reputable sellers known for their reliability, expertise in handling the AW10000 modem, and excellent after-sales service—backed by positive feedback from customers. You can purchase the AW10000 modem with confidence from these trusted sellers. Additionally, the firmware they provide is developed by Malaysian developers, ensuring localized quality and support.

Local Seller (Malaysia)

What is VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. It protects your online privacy by:

• Hiding your IP address and location
• Encrypting your internet traffic
• Bypassing geo-restrictions and censorship
• Securing data on public networks

VPN Usage on OpenWRT AW1000

To set up VPN on your AW1000:

1. Access OpenWRT LuCI interface
2. Navigate to "Services" → "VPN"
3. Choose your preferred VPN package
4. Enter your VPN provider credentials
5. Configure protocols and encryption settings
6. Enable kill switch for maximum security

Recommended VPN Packages

VPN Protocols Explained

Why Use VPN on OpenWRT?

1. Secure all devices on your network automatically
2. Bypass ISP throttling for better speeds
3. Access region-restricted content
4. Protect IoT devices with weak security
5. Maintain privacy from advertisers
6. Secure sensitive transactions

Recommended VPN Providers

We've partnered with experienced VPN providers who specialize in AW1000 setup and Malaysian telco compatibility:

Modified AW1000 Collection

Here are some of the most impressive AW1000 modifications from our community. These devices have been transformed into powerful networking beasts with custom hardware and software enhancements.

ROG Themed AW1000 with RGB lighting

Stealth Black Edition with custom heatsink

NAS setup demonstration with AW1000

Nnet Modified AW1000 (Front View)

Nnet Modified AW1000 (Right View)

Nnet Modified AW1000 (Left View)

Nnet Modified AW1000 (Rear View)

Nnet Modified AW1000 (Rear View 2)

Modified by King of Spin

nas setup with multi function+torrent

full slot usb,external antena

Speaker function for radio or movie/nas

Common Modifications

1. External Antenna Mods: Adding TS-9 connectors for better signal reception
2. Cooling Solutions: Upgraded heatsinks and fans for sustained performance
3. Case Mods: Custom enclosures with improved ventilation
4. LED Lighting: Custom RGB lighting for aesthetic appeal
5. Power Mods: Enhanced power delivery for stable operation
6. UART Access: Added external UART ports for easy debugging

Modification Guides

For those interested in modifying their AW1000, we have several guides available:

Key Contributors

Open Source Projects

Malaysia AW1000 OpenWRT Community

Special Mentions

1. How do I change the SSID and WiFi password?

2. How do I change the modem IP address?

3. Why is the modem time not synchronized with my local time?

4. How do I set a password and hostname for the OpenWRT webpage/UI?

5. How do I change the AW1000 main theme?

6. How do I change the background theme?
Make sure you are using the Alpha theme to change the custom background.