The DataHub Pro includes an LTE modem, so you don't need to add a USB tethered mobile phone to the DataHub for cellular data coverage to support essential functions, including GPS tracking, AI Polars, the Anchor Alert app, and Firmware upgrades.
Simply attach the LTE/Cell antenna, which is supplied with the Datahub Pro, and activate the LTE modem using the pre-installed T-Mobile SIM card in the PredictWind Satellite Portal. The PredictWind SIM card plan offers unlimited global roaming, including Starlink connectivity up to 12 nautical miles off the US mainland coast.
Should you wish to add another, unrestricted cellular internet connection to the DataHub Pro via USB for using a local data plan with the DataHub, and sharing it with other devices on the boat, then:
Using a power and data-capable USB cable, connect it to the USB Type-A or USB Type-C port on the back of the DataHub Pro.
Enable the mobile hotspot on the device.
Please review the articles below for specific instructions to enable your preferred dedicated device:
Use an iPhone or Android to USB tether a hotspot to the DataHub Pro
Important Note: The iPhone or Android device used to provide a USB tether for the Internet with the DataHub Pro cannot be the same device you use to log in to the DataHub Pro to configure it.
Use Ethernet or Wi-Fi to connect your DataHub Pro to the Internet
If you prefer to use a Cellular Router to provide the DataHub Pro with Internet, please try either of these methods:
Move on to Step 6
Congratulations! You are now ready to move on to Step 6: How to connect to your Satellite device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own SIM card in the DataHub Pro to have unrestricted internet access for the DataHub Pro and all devices connected to DataHub Wi-Fi & LAN?
Yes! Absolutely, you can replace the PredictWind T-Mobile SIM card with your own local or global roaming data sim card to share unrestricted internet with all devices connected to the DataHub via Wi-Fi or LAN.
Important Note: The PredictWind SIM card is locked to the DataHub Pro via an IMEI lock. If you remove the PredictWind SIM card, do NOT attempt to use it in any other device. Using the SIM card in any other device will cause it to be automatically blocked by T-Mobile. This requires support assistance to unlock.
If removing the PredictWind SIM card, store it in a safe location for future use.
To remove the PredictWind SIM card and replace it with your own:
Lift open the black SIM card cover on the side of the DataHub Pro.
Gently press the SIM card tray in to pop it out.
Remove it and replace it with your own SIM card.
Gently reinsert the SIM card tray, SIM card facing upwards, until you hear it click, then release.
The SIM card should remain securely in place in the socket.
Log in to the DataHub on 10.10.10.1 and click on Services > Settings > LTE/SIM card.
Click the blue WIZARD button.
Follow the on-screen prompts to select your SIM card Country, Provider and Plan.
Click SET to save the SIM APN and network settings.
Allow around 2 minutes for the DataHub to restart LTE networking, connect to your provider's network, and show Status: Connected.
If the Status still shows Disconnected after 2 minutes, click Control > RESTART.
I have Starlink, or I have activated the PredictWind SIM card. Should I still connect a USB tether for an internet hotspot?
Even if you have other Satellite internet, like Starlink, or you have activated the PredictWind SIM card in your DataHub Pro, a USB tether to a dedicated cellphone on a data plan is still a good idea for sharing unrestricted internet with other DataHub Pro-connected devices. Here are four reasons why:
Backup: If your Satellite service has an outage, the Datahub Pro will automatically switch to the Cellular router or mobile phone. This is useful, even with Starlink, which can have outages due to obstructions, congestion in populated areas, or outages due to heavy rain. A cheap backup can be priceless, especially if you have pre-installed and tested the Offshore App and PredictMail on your dedicated phone.
Reliability: Using your personal mobile phone as a wireless hotspot for the DataHub Pro is unreliable and requires constant monitoring. Your phone will deactivate its hotspot when you leave the boat and not in use to save battery. The simplicity of having a dedicated mobile device that is always connected to the DataHub is huge.
Least Cost Routing: This is a smart, automatic feature of the DataHub Pro. The DataHub Pro will uses the most cost-effective Internet connection available. In most cases, a cellular data connection is cheaper than Starlink when in coastal waters. Turn Starlink off and use your cellular data connection when in coastal waters. In order of priority, the DataHub uses WAN Ethernet first, then Wi-Fi, a USB tether, the PredictWind SIM, then an Iridium GO!/GO exec.
Marina Wi-Fi: Although you can use free Marina Wi-Fi, in practice, it can be unreliable, especially at peak times with many boats using it. Using Marina Wi-Fi, you will also need to reconnect the DataHub Pro to a new Wi-Fi at each port.