ZTE F30

ZTE F30 USB 4G LTE WiFi Dongle User Manual

Model: F30 | Brand: ZTE

1. Introduction

The ZTE F30 is an unlocked USB 4G LTE WiFi Dongle designed to provide portable wireless internet access. It functions as a 4G LTE modem and a pocket hotspot, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet via a single SIM card. With a transmission rate of up to 150Mbps, it offers high-speed connectivity for various applications, including desktop and laptop use. Its plug-and-play design ensures ease of use across different operating systems.

ZTE F30 USB WiFi Dongle in black and white
Figure 1: ZTE F30 USB WiFi Dongle (Black and White versions)

2. Package Contents

  • 1 x ZTE F30 USB 4G LTE WiFi Dongle
  • 1 x Retail Box (Note: Box may be in Chinese, but the device supports English language operation)
ZTE F30 USB WiFi Dongle packaging
Figure 2: ZTE F30 Product Packaging

3. Setup Guide

3.1. Before You Begin

  • Ensure you have a Nano SIM card with an active data plan.
  • Verify that your SIM card's frequency bands are compatible with the ZTE F30. This device supports 4G LTE bands B1/3/5/8/38/39/40/41 (850/1800/2100/900/1900/2300/2500/2600MHZ) and 3G bands HSPA+/HSPA/UMTS 2100/900Mhz. You can check frequency bands on Wikipedia's List of LTE networks or by using an app like "cellular-z" on your smartphone.

3.2. Inserting the SIM Card

  1. Carefully remove the back cover of the ZTE F30 dongle.
  2. Locate the Nano SIM card slot.
  3. Insert your Nano SIM card into the slot with the gold contacts facing down and the notched corner aligned correctly.
  4. Replace the back cover.
ZTE F30 with back cover removed, showing Nano SIM card slot and device information
Figure 3: SIM Card Installation and Device Information

3.3. Initial Connection

  1. Plug the ZTE F30 dongle into an available USB port on your desktop computer, laptop, or a compatible USB power adapter.
  2. The device is designed for "Plug & Play" functionality. Your operating system (Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, or Mac OS) should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers.
  3. Once installed, the dongle will attempt to connect to the cellular network and broadcast a Wi-Fi signal.
ZTE F30 black dongle with USB connector exposed
Figure 4: ZTE F30 USB Connector

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Connecting to the Wi-Fi Hotspot

  1. On your Wi-Fi enabled device (laptop, smartphone, tablet), search for available Wi-Fi networks.
  2. Locate the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) of your ZTE F30. This information, along with the default password, can typically be found on a label inside the dongle (refer to Figure 3).
  3. Select the network and enter the Wi-Fi password to connect.

4.2. Accessing the Web Management Interface

To manage your dongle's settings, such as Wi-Fi name, password, or APN settings, you can access its web-based interface:

  1. Ensure your device is connected to the ZTE F30's Wi-Fi network.
  2. Open a web browser and enter the default IP address (e.g., 192.168.0.1) into the address bar. This IP address is usually printed on the label inside the dongle (refer to Figure 3).
  3. You will be prompted to enter a username and password. The default login credentials are often 'admin' for both username and password (refer to Figure 3).
  4. Once logged in, you can view connection status, network settings, and connected devices.
Screenshot of ZTE F30 web management interface showing connection status and network settings
Figure 5: Web Management Interface - Overview

4.3. Configuring APN Settings

In some cases, you may need to manually configure the Access Point Name (APN) settings for your SIM card to establish an internet connection. This is typically done within the web management interface:

  1. Log in to the web management interface (as described in Section 4.2).
  2. Navigate to the "Network Settings" or "APN" section.
  3. Select "Manual" mode for APN configuration.
  4. Enter the correct APN, username, and password provided by your mobile network operator.
  5. Save and apply the settings. The device should then connect to the internet.
Screenshot of ZTE F30 web management interface showing APN settings
Figure 6: Web Management Interface - APN Configuration

5. Maintenance

  • Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
  • Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself, as this will void any potential warranty.
  • Store the device in a safe place when not in use, preferably in its original packaging or a protective case.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1. No Internet Connection

  • Check SIM Card: Ensure the Nano SIM card is correctly inserted and has an active data plan.
  • Network Compatibility: Verify that your SIM card's network frequency bands are supported by the ZTE F30. This device is designed to work in Asia and parts of Europe/Africa. Refer to Section 3.1 for checking frequency bands.
  • APN Settings: Access the web management interface (Section 4.2) and confirm that the APN settings are correctly configured for your mobile network operator (Section 4.3).
  • Signal Strength: Check the signal indicator on the device or in the web management interface. If the signal is weak, try moving to a different location.

6.2. Wi-Fi Not Visible or Unable to Connect

  • Device Powered On: Ensure the dongle is properly plugged into a USB port and powered on.
  • Correct Password: Double-check that you are entering the correct Wi-Fi password (SSID and password are on the label inside the dongle).
  • Restart Device: Unplug the dongle, wait a few seconds, and plug it back in.

7. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumberF30
Brand NameZTE
Card Type Device4G Card
ApplicationDesktop, Laptop
Interface TypeUSB
TypeWireless
Wireless Protocol802.11N
Transmission Rate150Mbps
4G LTE BandsB1/3/5/8/38/39/40/41 (850/1800/2100/900/1900/2300/2500/2600MHZ)
3G BandsHSPA+/HSPA/UMTS 2100/900Mhz
DC-HSPA+ Data ServiceUp to 42 Mbps
HSUPA Data ServiceUp to 5.76 Mbps
Operating Systems SupportWindows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, Mac Operating Systems
Weight<35g
Battery IncludedNo
OriginMainland China

8. User Tips

  • Regional Compatibility: Before purchasing or using, always confirm that the device's supported frequency bands match those of your local mobile network operator. This is crucial for ensuring proper functionality, especially in regions like Saudi Arabia (as per user queries).
  • APN Settings: If you experience connectivity issues, manually configuring the APN settings in the web interface is often the solution. Your mobile carrier can provide the correct APN details.
  • Signal Strength: For optimal performance, use the dongle in an area with good cellular signal strength.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the seller directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Related Documents - F30

Preview MU5250 International Roaming Guide - ZTE Portable WiFi
Comprehensive guide for the ZTE MU5250 portable WiFi device, covering setup, SIM card management, international roaming, connectivity, and troubleshooting.
Preview ZTE U12 Portable WiFi Hotspot Quick Guide
This quick guide provides essential information for the ZTE U12 portable WiFi hotspot, covering device setup, operation, internet access, troubleshooting, safety, and warranty details.
Preview MIFI Router WiFi Device Quick Start Guide - ZTE
Concise quick start guide for the ZTE MIFI Router WiFi Device. Learn about device appearance, indicator lights, SIM card installation, and Wi-Fi connection steps for up to 6 devices.
Preview ZTE MF93D Wireless Broadband Modem User Manual
User manual for the ZTE MF93D Wireless Broadband Modem provided by Maxis, detailing setup, connection methods (Wi-Fi, USB), internet access, PC configuration, warnings, and troubleshooting.
Preview ZTE Mobile Hotspot User Guide: Connect to 4G LTE Internet Anywhere
Comprehensive user guide for the ZTE Mobile Hotspot, detailing setup, internet access, Wi-Fi configuration, safety, and troubleshooting. Connect up to 10 devices to 4G LTE.
Preview ZTE MF920U Quick Start Guide: Connect to the Internet
A comprehensive quick start guide for the ZTE MF920U mobile hotspot, covering setup, Wi-Fi and USB connection, configuration, troubleshooting, and safety information.