How to improve AT+COPS=? query speed on BG95-M3?

IoT Modules LPWA Module
1

We use the AT+COPS=? query to list visible operators, which is typically taking nearly 4 minutes to return the 2-4 visible operators. We only need to support CATM1, but this modem might be deployed in any of several countries and we mightn’t know the bands ahead of time. (Using a 1nce SIM)

That said, is there any way to reduce the time required to scan for visible operators?

2

There is a guard timer for every RAT scan to control scan time. For example, the guard timer for CAT-M is 5 minutes, for NB-IoT is 6 minutes, and for GSM is 3 minutes.

3

To reduce the scan time for visible operators, try the following:

  1. Limit Bands: Use AT+COPS to specify only the necessary bands for CAT-M1, which will speed up the scan.
  2. Use AT+CSQ: Check signal strength before scanning, and skip the operator search if the signal is weak.
  3. Modem Settings: Look into your modem’s configuration for options to optimize or limit the scan.
  4. Pre-configure Operators: If possible, pre-configure a list of common operators to avoid a full scan.
  5. Fast Scan Mode: Some modems offer a “quick scan” mode that can speed up the process at the expense of fewer networks detected.

These steps should help reduce scan time while still supporting your deployment needs.