COMFAST CF-E3 V3 4G LTE WiFi Router

1. Introduction

The COMFAST CF-E3 V3 is a versatile 4G LTE WiFi Router designed to provide high-speed internet access and extensive wireless coverage for home and small office environments. It functions as both a 4G router, utilizing a SIM card for internet connectivity, and a standard WiFi router, connecting to an existing internet source. Its plug-and-play design and global compatibility make it a convenient solution for various networking needs.

Key Features:

• Multi-Functions: Operates as a 4G LTE router and a standard WiFi router.
• Global Use: Compatible with worldwide 4G/3G/2G frequencies and various SIM cards.
• Plug and Play: Easy setup for immediate internet access.
• Strong Performance: Features a smart chipset, supports 32+ users, and offers stable performance.
• Enhanced Coverage: Equipped with 4 high-gain external antennas for wide wireless coverage.
• Flexible Power Supply: Supports both DC power adapter and Micro USB (power bank) input.

2. Package Contents

Please check the package contents upon unboxing to ensure all items are present and undamaged:

• 1 x COMFAST CF-E3 V3 4G WiFi Router
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Guarantee Card
• 1 x Qualification Document
• 1 x Power Adapter
• 1 x Ethernet Cable
• Screws (for wall mounting)

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the physical components and interfaces of your COMFAST CF-E3 V3 router:

Components:

• High Gain Antennas: Four external antennas (two 4G, two 2.4GHz) for improved signal strength and coverage.
• WPS/RST Button: Used for WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) or to reset the device to factory defaults.
• SIM Card Slot: For inserting a Nano SIM card to enable 4G LTE connectivity.
• RJ45 Ports: Includes one 10/100Mbps WAN port (blue) and two 10/100Mbps LAN ports (yellow).
• Micro USB Interface: Alternative power input, allowing the router to be powered by a power bank.
• DC Power Interface: Main power input for the included power adapter.
• WiFi Signal Indicator: Displays the status of the WiFi network.
• Rotating Base: Allows for flexible positioning of the router.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 SIM Card Installation

1. Ensure the router is powered off.
2. Locate the SIM card slot on the side of the router.
3. Insert a Nano SIM card (12*9mm dimension) into the slot. Ensure the chipset side of the SIM card is facing down, as indicated in the diagram.
4. Gently push until the SIM card clicks into place.

4.2 Power Connection

The CF-E3 V3 offers flexible power options:

• DC Power: Connect the included power adapter to the DC Power Interface on the router and plug it into a standard electrical outlet.
• USB Power: For portable use, connect a Micro USB cable from a power bank to the Micro USB Interface on the router.

4.3 Initial Configuration

After powering on the router, wait for the indicator lights to stabilize. You can then access the router's web management interface for detailed configuration:

1. Connect your computer to the router via an Ethernet cable (to a LAN port) or wirelessly using the default WiFi SSID and password (usually found on a sticker on the router).
2. Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
3. Enter the default IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) into the address bar and press Enter. Refer to the sticker on the router or the full user manual for the exact default IP and login credentials.
4. Log in using the default username and password.
5. Follow the on-screen wizard for initial setup, including changing default WiFi name/password and administrator password for security.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 4G Router Functionality

When a valid Nano SIM card with an active data plan is inserted, the CF-E3 V3 will automatically detect the 4G network and provide internet access. The router acts as a gateway, converting the 4G mobile data into a WiFi signal and wired Ethernet connections.

5.2 Standard Router Functionality

If you have an existing internet connection (e.g., from a modem or another router), you can use the CF-E3 V3 as a standard WiFi router:

1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your modem/existing router's LAN port to the blue WAN port on the CF-E3 V3.
2. Configure the WAN settings in the router's web management interface if necessary (e.g., DHCP, Static IP, PPPoE).

5.3 Connecting Devices

You can connect your devices to the CF-E3 V3 router using either WiFi or Ethernet cables:

• WiFi Connection: Search for the router's WiFi network (SSID) on your device (smartphone, laptop, tablet). Select the network and enter the WiFi password (WPA/WPA2 key) found on the router's label.
• Wired Connection: Connect devices like desktop computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles to the yellow LAN ports using Ethernet cables.

6. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your COMFAST CF-E3 V3 router, consider the following maintenance tips:

• Keep Clean: Regularly wipe the router with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust buildup, especially around ventilation areas.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure the router is placed in an open area with good airflow to prevent overheating. Avoid placing it in enclosed spaces or near heat sources.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the COMFAST official website for firmware updates. Updating the firmware can improve performance, add new features, and enhance security.
• Periodic Restart: Restarting the router every few weeks can help clear its memory and resolve minor network issues, improving overall stability.
• Secure Placement: If wall-mounted, ensure it is securely fastened. If desktop placed, ensure it is on a stable surface.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your COMFAST CF-E3 V3 router, try the following troubleshooting steps:

No Internet Connection:

• 4G Mode: Ensure the Nano SIM card is correctly inserted and has an active data plan. Check the 4G signal strength indicator on the router. Try restarting the router.
• Standard Router Mode: Verify that the Ethernet cable from your modem/existing router is securely connected to the blue WAN port. Check if your modem/existing router has internet access.
• Indicator Lights: Observe the indicator lights. Refer to the full user manual for the meaning of different light statuses (e.g., solid, blinking, color).

Slow Internet Speed:

• Signal Strength: For 4G, ensure good cellular signal. For WiFi, ensure your device is within optimal range of the router.
• Interference: Move the router away from other electronic devices (cordless phones, microwaves) that might cause interference.
• Connected Devices: Too many devices connected simultaneously can reduce speed. Disconnect some devices to test.
• Bandwidth Usage: Check if any applications or devices are consuming excessive bandwidth.

Cannot Connect to WiFi:

• Password: Double-check that you are entering the correct WiFi password.
• SSID Broadcast: Ensure the router's WiFi SSID is being broadcast. If hidden, manually add the network.
• Signal Range: Move closer to the router to ensure you are within range.

Resetting the Router:

If you forget your login credentials or encounter persistent issues, you can reset the router to its factory default settings:

• With the router powered on, use a paperclip or a thin object to press and hold the WPS/RST button for approximately 5-10 seconds until the indicator lights flash.
• Release the button. The router will restart with factory default settings. You will need to reconfigure it.

8. Technical Specifications

9. User Tips

• Optimal Placement: For the best WiFi and 4G signal, place the router in a central location in your home, away from obstructions like thick walls, large metal objects, and other electronic devices that may cause interference.
• Change Default Credentials: For security, always change the default administrator password for the router's web interface and the default WiFi SSID and password immediately after initial setup.
• Antenna Orientation: Adjust the external antennas for optimal signal reception. Experiment with different angles to find the best coverage for your area.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the Guarantee Card included in your package or contact the manufacturer directly through their official website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.