AT&T AirTies 4971 - User Manual

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Summary

Connect with AT&T Smart Home Manager App

Download and Install Smart Home Manager App

Download the AT&T Smart Home Manager app from your app store or visit att.com/smarthomemanager.

Add Extender in Smart Home Manager

Navigate to Network > Home Network Hardware > Add Extender within the app to add your Wi-Fi extender.

Connect with Ethernet

Connect Extender to Gateway via Ethernet

Attach the extender to the gateway using a YELLOW Ethernet cable to a YELLOW Ethernet port on both devices.

Power On and Pair Extender

Connect the power supply to the extender and plug it in. Observe LED indicators for pairing status.

Position Extender for Optimal Coverage

Unplug the extender after pairing and move it to the desired room for extended Wi-Fi coverage.

Troubleshooting and Tips

Extender Placement and Functionality Check

Do not place the extender on the floor. Check if your extender is working and paired (SOLID WHITE light).

Common Troubleshooting Scenarios

Address issues like 'Device is out of range', 'Not paired', 'Out of range', or flashing lights.

Check Cables and Reboot Extender

Verify all cables and cords are connected and reboot the extender using the reset button on the back.

The AT&T Smart Wi-Fi Extender is a device designed to extend your home's Wi-Fi network, ensuring better coverage and signal strength throughout your living space. It offers two primary setup options: connecting via the AT&T Smart Home Manager app or using an Ethernet cable.

Function Description:

The primary function of the AT&T Smart Wi-Fi Extender is to boost and expand your existing AT&T Wi-Fi network. It works in conjunction with your AT&T Internet service and a compatible AT&T Wi-Fi gateway. By strategically placing the extender, you can eliminate dead zones and improve the overall Wi-Fi experience in your home. The device is managed and monitored through the AT&T Smart Home Manager app, which provides a comprehensive interface for network control, troubleshooting, and device management.

Important Technical Specifications:

While specific technical specifications like frequency bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz), Wi-Fi standards (e.g., 802.11ac, 802.11ax), or maximum data rates are not explicitly detailed in the provided manual, the document emphasizes compatibility with AT&T Wi-Fi gateways. Users are directed to att.com/wifiextender to check compatibility. The extender features Ethernet ports, indicated by a YELLOW color, which are used for wired connections during setup and potentially for connecting other devices after pairing. The device also has a power jack, and its operational status is indicated by an LED light on the front, which can display various colors (SOLID WHITE, SOLID GREEN, blinking WHITE) to signify different states such as paired and functioning, connecting, or out of range. The power light on the back also turns SOLID GREEN when properly connected.

Usage Features:

The AT&T Smart Wi-Fi Extender is designed for user-friendly setup and management.

Two Setup Options:
- Option 1: Connect with AT&T Smart Home Manager app: This is the recommended method. Users download the Smart Home Manager app, sign in with their AT&T user ID and password, and then follow the in-app instructions. The app guides them through selecting "Network," "Home Network Hardware," and "Add Extender." A QR code is provided for quick app download. The extender needs to be placed in the room next to the gateway during this setup process. Once the front LED turns SOLID WHITE, the setup is complete.
- Option 2: Connect with Ethernet: This method involves a wired connection. First, connect one end of a YELLOW Ethernet cable to a YELLOW Ethernet port on the back of the AT&T gateway and the other end to any YELLOW Ethernet port on the back of the extender. The Ethernet port LED on the extender should turn SOLID GREEN. Next, connect the power supply to the extender and plug it into an electrical outlet. The power jack LED on the back should turn SOLID GREEN, and the front LED will blink WHITE during boot-up and eventually turn SOLID WHITE when paired. After successful pairing, the extender can be unplugged and moved to the desired room.
Placement Guidance: The manual advises against placing the extender on the floor and directs users to att.com/extenderguide for optimal placement tips. During initial setup, the extender should be in the room next to the gateway.
Status Indicators: The front LED light serves as a crucial indicator of the extender's status:
- SOLID WHITE: Paired and functioning correctly.
- Not paired: Indicates the extender has not successfully connected to the gateway.
- Out of range: Suggests the extender is too far from the gateway or the Wi-Fi signal is weak. This is particularly relevant for WPS pairing or if the Wi-Fi signal is generally poor.
- Light may flash up to 5 minutes while connecting: This indicates the extender is in the process of establishing a connection.
Smart Home Manager App Integration: The AT&T Smart Home Manager app is central to the extender's usage. It allows users to:
- Control and manage their home Wi-Fi network.
- Troubleshoot network issues.
- Check Wi-Fi connection strength.
- Manage connected devices.
- Set up the Wi-Fi extender. The app is available to AT&T Internet service customers with a compatible AT&T Wi-Fi gateway.

Maintenance Features:

The manual provides basic troubleshooting and maintenance tips to ensure the extender operates effectively.

Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check cables and cords: Users are advised to ensure all cables are firmly connected.
- Reboot the extender: A reset button on the back of the extender can be used to reboot the device, which can resolve many connectivity issues.
- Placement optimization: If the device is "out of range," users should consider relocating it closer to the gateway or consulting att.com/extenderguide for better placement strategies.
- Status light interpretation: Understanding the different states indicated by the LED light (SOLID WHITE, not paired, out of range, flashing) helps users diagnose problems quickly.
Support Resources: AT&T offers several support channels:
- Online resources: att.com/smarthomemanager, att.com/support, and att.com/wifiextender provide additional help, troubleshooting guides, and a list of compatible gateways.
- MyAT&T app: For account management, available 24/7.
- Accessibility support: A dedicated phone number (800.288.2020) is provided for Braille or large print assistance.

In summary, the AT&T Smart Wi-Fi Extender is a user-friendly device designed to enhance home Wi-Fi coverage, primarily managed through the AT&T Smart Home Manager app, with clear status indicators and accessible support resources for troubleshooting.