This document describes the TCL LINKZONE, a 4G LTE mobile router designed to provide fast and secure Wi-Fi connectivity in any location with cellular network coverage. It supports download speeds of up to 150 Mbps and can connect up to 15 devices to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network (802.11b/g/n). The device is compatible with various web browsers, including Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Opera, and Google Chrome.
Function Description
The TCL LINKZONE acts as a mobile hotspot, allowing users to share a cellular data connection wirelessly. It features a Signal LED and a Battery LED to indicate its status. The Signal LED shows connection status: solid blue for connected to the network, solid red for registered but not connected, and blinking red for no SIM card or network service. The Battery LED indicates charge status: solid blue for fully charged, blinking blue (slowly) for sufficient battery, and solid red for low battery. When charging, the Battery LED flashes quickly in blinking blue.
The device includes a Power button for turning it on/off (press for 3 seconds), waking up or turning off LEDs (press briefly), and rebooting (press for 10 seconds). A WPS button is available to enable Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) for 3 seconds, automatically disabling if no connection is established within 2 minutes. A Micro USB port is used for connecting to a power supply (5 V/1 A) via the provided USB cable.
Usage Features
To get started, users need to install a Micro-SIM card and the battery, ensuring correct orientation. After installation, the back cover is reinstalled. The device is powered on by pressing the power button for 3 seconds until the LEDs flash solid blue.
Connecting to the LINKZONE network is done wirelessly by selecting the Wi-Fi name (SSID) on a wireless device and entering the Wi-Fi password, both found on the label inside the LINKZONE. For WPS-enabled devices, three options are available:
- WPS button: Press the WPS button on the LINKZONE for 3 seconds, then enable WPS on the wireless device within 2 minutes.
- PBC (Push Button Connect): Log into the web UI (More > WPS > PBC), then enable WPS on the wireless device within 2 minutes.
- WPS PIN code: Log into the web UI (More > WPS > WPS PIN), set a WPS PIN code, click Apply, then enable WPS on the wireless device and enter the PIN code within 2 minutes.
The LINKZONE is configured and managed through a web user interface (UI), accessible by opening a web browser on a connected device and navigating to http://192.168.1.1. The default login information is found inside the LINKZONE. The web UI's home page features tiles for Connection, Usage, SMS, Settings, and More, each providing detailed information and configuration options. Status icons in the UI indicate network type (3G or 4G), signal strength, Wi-Fi function status (on/off), cellular network connection status, and battery level.
The Connection panel displays connection status, data usage, battery level, and the number of connected devices. Users can connect or disconnect from the cellular network. Clicking "Connected" provides details on connected devices, allowing users to edit names and manage internet access.
The Usage panel estimates data usage and connection time. Additional features like Usage Settings and Clear History are accessed via the "more" icon. Usage Settings allow users to set billing day, monthly data plan, and time limits. Clear History clears all data usage statistics.
The SMS section allows users to read, send, reply to, delete, and forward SMS messages. SMS settings like Save Mode and SMS Report can also be configured.
The Settings section offers comprehensive configuration options:
- Wi-Fi Settings: Enable/disable Wi-Fi, select country/region, view/change SSID, enable/disable SSID Broadcast (hiding the Wi-Fi name), configure Wi-Fi security modes (TKIP, AES, Auto), show/hide Wi-Fi password, and set 802.11 Mode (default 802.11b/g/n). Users can also select Wi-Fi channels (Auto or specific channels based on region) and set the maximum number of connected users. AP isolation can be enabled to create separate virtual networks for each client, enhancing security.
- Login Settings: Set a new login password (4 to 16 characters).
- Profile Management: Set up, edit, or delete APN profiles for network operators. The default profile cannot be deleted.
- PIN Code Settings: Enable or disable SIM PIN, set a new SIM PIN (4 to 8 digits), or enter the current SIM PIN to disable it. Incorrect PIN entry 3 times requires a PUK code from the service provider; 10 incorrect PUK entries permanently lock the SIM.
- Connection Mode: Configure automatic or manual network connection.
- Network Mode: Change network selection method and mode.
- Advanced Settings: Check IP address, manage DHCP and MAC settings. DHCP Server automatically assigns IP addresses to connected devices. MAC Filter allows specifying which devices can or cannot access the internet.
The About section provides device information (software version, device name, IMEI) and basic settings.
The More panel allows for WPS connection setup and checking for firmware updates.
Maintenance Features
- Factory Reset: Simultaneously press the power button and WPS button for 3 seconds to factory reset the LINKZONE. This is useful if the login password is forgotten or if internet access issues persist.
- Reboot: If the LINKZONE malfunctions, it can be restarted by pressing the power button for 10 seconds.
- Software Updates: The device can be updated online if a new version is available. It is crucial not to power off the device during the upgrade process to prevent damage.
- Backup and Restore: Users can download the current configuration file to their local device (Backup) and restore the device to a previous configuration by importing a backup file (Restore).
- Battery Care: The battery should only be replaced with a qualified battery. Do not open, puncture, disassemble, or short-circuit the battery. Dispose of used batteries according to local environmental laws. Do not use damaged batteries.
- Cleaning: Handle the device with care and keep it in a clean, dust-free place.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides solutions for common problems such as forgotten Wi-Fi passwords, inability to find the Wi-Fi name, SIM card issues ("No SIM card" or "Invalid SIM card"), "PIN lock" or "PUK lock," and issues accessing the web UI.
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