grab_port fails for AT/PPP port (stuck) in data mode

[Aleksander Morgado]

Hey Norbert,

> I'm creating a plugin for Sierra Wireless HL78xx LTE-M modem.
> Actually, it is already partly done.
>
> The HL78xx has its own TCP/TLS stack/interface. To use it as
> "generic linux network interface" though, PPP is used for the AT/PPP capable
> ttyACM1 port. ttyACM0 is the AT control port.
>
> Note: I'm talking about usb (cdc_acm) 'virtual' tty ports. The serial UART
>        port (UART1) can be used for PPP as well, but that is another use-case.
>
> The problem I currently have is that the plugin fails to grab
> the ttyACM1 port if this port is in data mode. It enters data mode
> after the ATD "dial-in" command ("ATD*99***<cid>#1").
>
> The same problem occurs when the ATD "dial-in" command itself, it times
> out when the ttyACM1 port is in data mode.
>
> Afaict, there are 2 possible solutions.
> -1- implement some proper switching between data and command mode
> -2- MM uses ttyACM0 only
>
> I wonder whether -1- is a good option since I don't see any code dealing with
> data<->command mode switching. Do you think this is needed in my case?
> if yes, How do I issue "+++" to enter AT command mode in (any custom) grab_port?
>
> about -2-, the ATD "dial-in" command probably isn't necessary (since MM
> already register with COPS and create/activates the PDP-context/bearer with
> CGDCONT/CGACT). Do you think this is a good option?
> We do use NetworkManager to start pppd with the right port (ttyACM1), will this still work?
>

I think the question here would be why ttyACM1 is in data mode. MM
expects all ports in control mode, and then decides which one to
switch into data mode with an ATD call. MM does not expect the ports
to be already in data mode.

-- 
Aleksander
https://aleksander.es