TorBox doesn’t support only internet access and client connections via WiFi (an additional USB WiFi adapter is necessary) or cable, it also supports internet access via a cellular network. Below, we show you how you can upgrade your Raspberry Pi.
Used Items
- Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with a Pimoroni’s chunky heatsink in combination with a Pibow Coupé 4 case. With that case, the Sixfab Shield/HAT can be easily attached/detached on/from the 40 GPIO pin.
- Sixfab Raspberry Pi 3G-4G/LTE Base Shield V2 — alternatively, there is a newer version of that Shield: the Sixfab Raspberry Pi 3G/4G<E Base HAT. According to the description, it has a better circuitry with the “HAT features” and includes programmable user LED and button. We will test it out in a few weeks and probably change our recommendation.
- Quectel EC25 Mini PCle 4G/LTE Module – This module supports GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/LTE. Attention: You have to choose the correct regional option! This module requires a micro SIM card without pin code (you can deactivate the pin code in a mobile phone).
- LTE Main & Diversity & GNSS Triple Port u.FL Antenna – 100mm – Attention: The Quectel EC25 Mini PCle 4G/LTE Module doesn’t work without an antenna. Alternatively, the LTE Main & Diversity Dual u.FL Antenna – 100mm should also work; however, we didn’t test it out.
Support software installation and configuration
- Go to the Configuration & Update submenu and choose the menu entry 10 to start the installation and configuration of the support software.
Attention: you have to have internet connectivity for that step. In other words: you have to install the support software before you need a cellular connection! - Choose the correct Sixfab Shiel/Hat.
According to our recommendation above, it would be the “3G, 4G/LTE Base Shield”. - What is your carrier APN?
You find the APN settings of most carriers here. - Does your carrier need username and password?
Again, you find this information on most carriers here. - What is your device communication port?
If you use the Sixfab Shield with the USB connector (as in our image above), you should choose ttyUSB3. - Do you want to activate auto connect / reconnect service at RPi boot up?
We recommend choosing yes. - At the end of the installation script, pressing ENTER reboots the Raspberry Pi. If you want to avoid it, press CTRL-C.
How can I securely route my data stream through the cellular connection?
After assembling all the hardware, installing and configuring the support software correctly, choose entry 7 in the main menu to route all your encrypted data through the cellular connection.