List available networks without actually connecting

[folkertdev]

We want to verify that the modem can find mobile networks without actually connecting. Actually connecting to the network has a price tag. The context here is a quality assurance script that we run on all hardware to verify that it functions properly.

The documentation for the COPS command is not entirely clear on whether it really connects, but seems to suggest that it does:

https://infocenter.nordicsemi.com/index.jsp?topic=%2Fref_at_commands%2FREF%2Fat_commands%2Fnw_service%2Fcops.html

Does the COPS command already do what we want? or maybe there is some different AT command or a read-only configuration option for the modem?

[Heidi]

Hi!

It looks like this command will read the current network that the device is connected to. 

I will investigate whether we have something that can return the available cells and their network providers without being attached, and get back to you when I find something. 

Best regards,

Heidi

[Waqar Ahmed]

Hi Heidi,

is it possible look for LTE-M available while modem configuration set TO NBIOT vice versa using AT+COPS command or any other command?
or it will list only the available   network on which modem configuration are set?

please 

[Charlie]

Hi Waqar,

I have a similar discussion here before: https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/support-private/support/279645#permalink=710283

Your needs can not be satisfied by the current Modem Firmware. I am not sure why you need this on your application. Can you explain?

Best regards,

Charlie

[Waqar Ahmed]

yes, my situation is that i am using external sim for NBIOT  and eSIM for LTE-m.

let suppose my device is currently connected with NBIOT on external SIM. due to some reason device is disconnected from NBIOT(may be device moved to somewhere where there is no more NBIOT coverage) now  in this case  i want implement in my firmware that device scan for available network if it found LTE-M network in list. The device just switch to eSIM and get connected with LTE-M..

Thanks