ZTE MF293N

ZTE MF293N 4G LTE CAT4 Wireless Router User Manual

Model: MF293N

1. Product Overview

The ZTE MF293N is a 4G LTE CAT4 wireless router designed to provide high-speed internet access. It is compatible with LTE FDD, LTE TDD, 3G UMTS, and 2G networks, offering peak speeds of up to 150Mbps for download and 50Mbps for upload. This router also supports internet sharing via Ethernet cable, making it suitable for small office/home office (SOHO) environments. It features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with 2x2 MIMO technology, providing up to 300Mbps Wi-Fi speed and supporting up to 32 users simultaneously.

Front view of the ZTE MF293N router with power, Wi-Fi, and signal indicators.
Figure 1: Front view of the ZTE MF293N router, showing LED indicators for Power, Wi-Fi, and Signal strength.

2. Setup Guide

2.1 Package Contents

Ensure all items are present in the package:

  • ZTE MF293N 4G LTE CAT4 Wireless Router
  • Power Adapter
  • Ethernet Cable (may vary by region/seller)
  • Quick Start Guide (may vary by region/seller)
ZTE MF293N router in its retail box.
Figure 2: ZTE MF293N router and its retail packaging.

2.2 Inserting the SIM Card

  1. Ensure the router is powered off.
  2. Locate the SIM card slot at the bottom of the device.
  3. Insert a standard 4FF SIM card into the slot with the gold contacts facing down and the notched corner aligned correctly. Push until it clicks into place.
Bottom view of router with SIM card slot.
Figure 3: Bottom view of the router, highlighting the SIM card slot.

2.3 Connecting Power and Network Cables

  1. Connect the power adapter to the 'Power' port on the rear of the router and plug it into a wall outlet.
  2. (Optional) To connect a device via Ethernet, plug one end of an Ethernet cable into the 'WAN/LAN' port on the router and the other end into your computer or other network device.
  3. (Optional) If you have external antennas, connect them to the two SMA connectors on the rear of the router.
  4. (Optional) If supported by your service provider, connect a telephone to the 'Phone' (RJ11) port for voice services.
Rear view of the ZTE MF293N router, showing WAN/LAN, Phone, and Power ports, along with external antenna connectors.
Figure 4: Rear view of the router, showing the WAN/LAN, Phone, Power ports, and external antenna connectors.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Powering On and Initial Connection

  1. After connecting the power, the router will automatically power on. Wait for the LED indicators on the front panel to stabilize.
  2. The 'Power' LED should be solid. The 'Wi-Fi' LED should be solid or blinking, indicating Wi-Fi is active. The 'Signal' LED will indicate network signal strength.
  3. To connect to Wi-Fi, find the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password printed on a label on the bottom of the router.
  4. Connect your device (smartphone, laptop, etc.) to this Wi-Fi network.
  5. (Optional) For quick Wi-Fi connection, the router supports NFC. Tap your NFC-enabled device to the router's NFC area to connect automatically.

3.2 Accessing the Web Interface (WebUI)

To configure advanced settings, access the router's web interface:

  1. Ensure your device is connected to the router's Wi-Fi or via Ethernet.
  2. Open a web browser and enter the default IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) into the address bar. Refer to the label on the router for the exact IP address and default login credentials.
  3. Enter the username and password when prompted.
  4. From the WebUI, you can manage Wi-Fi settings, network bands, security, and other router features.

3.3 LED Indicators

  • Power LED: Indicates power status.
  • Wi-Fi LED: Indicates Wi-Fi network status.
  • Signal LED: Indicates the strength of the 4G/3G cellular signal. More bars typically mean better signal.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Firmware Updates (FOTA)

The ZTE MF293N supports FOTA (Firmware Over-The-Air) for convenient updates. It is recommended to keep your router's firmware updated to ensure optimal performance, security, and access to new features. Check for updates via the router's WebUI.

4.2 Resetting the Router

If you encounter persistent issues or forget your login credentials, you can perform a factory reset:

  1. With the router powered on, locate the 'Reset' button (often a small pinhole) on the device.
  2. Use a paperclip or a similar pointed object to press and hold the 'Reset' button for approximately 5-10 seconds until the LED indicators change.
  3. Release the button. The router will restart with factory default settings.

4.3 General Care

  • Keep the router in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
  • Avoid exposing the router to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture.
  • Clean the router periodically with a soft, dry cloth.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Internet Connection

  • Check if the SIM card is correctly inserted and activated with a data plan.
  • Verify the 'Signal' LED indicator. If it shows no signal or very weak signal, try relocating the router to an area with better cellular reception.
  • Ensure the router's cellular settings (APN, etc.) are correctly configured via the WebUI.
  • Restart the router by unplugging and re-plugging the power adapter.

5.2 Wi-Fi Connection Issues

  • Ensure the 'Wi-Fi' LED is on. If not, press the Wi-Fi Network button or enable Wi-Fi via the WebUI.
  • Verify you are using the correct Wi-Fi SSID and password.
  • Move closer to the router to improve Wi-Fi signal strength.
  • Check for any Wi-Fi interference from other electronic devices.

5.3 Slow Internet Speed

  • Check the 'Signal' LED for optimal signal strength.
  • Reduce the number of connected devices or active downloads.
  • Ensure the router is placed in an open area, away from obstructions.
  • Contact your service provider to check for network issues in your area.

6. Specifications

The following table details the technical specifications of the ZTE MF293N router:

Detailed specifications table for the ZTE MF293N router.
Figure 5: Detailed specifications of the ZTE MF293N router.
Category Item Details
Platform ZX297520V3E + RTL8192ES
Cellular WAN Band configuration
  • FDD-LTE Band: 1(4),2,3,5,7,8,20,(12,13,17,28)
  • TDD-LTE Band: 38,39,40,41
  • HSPA+/HSPA/UMTS Band: 1,2,(4),5,8
  • EDGE/GPRS/GSM Quad Bands (B2 and B39 interchange) (B1 and B4 interchange)
Peak data rate
  • FDD-LTE: DL/UL 150/50Mbps (CAT4)
  • TDD-LTE: DL/UL 110+/11+Mbps (CAT4)
  • HSPA+: DL/UL 21.6/5.76Mbps
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2*2, 300Mbps, 32 users
Dimension 164*124*51.5mm
Interface
  • 1 x RJ45(FE, WAN/LAN)
  • 1 x RJ11(FXS, CSFB/VoLTE/VoIP(Customized))
  • 1 x SIM socket(4FF)
  • 2 x SMA (External Antenna)
  • 1 x DC470(DC12V)
  • 1 x Micro USB (Factory test)
Other Configuration 3 LED: Power, Wi-Fi Network Button; WPS, Reset
Features Data service: WebUI, ZTE Link, FOTA. Main stream OS supported.
Milestone Test Sample: Feb. 2021

7. Warranty and Support

For technical assistance, warranty information, or further inquiries, please contact ZTE support using the details below:

Please note that specifications and parameters are subject to change without further notice. Refer to the official ZTE website or contact support for the most up-to-date information.

8. User Tips

  • Optimal Placement: Place the router in a central location, away from walls and large metal objects, to maximize Wi-Fi coverage and cellular signal reception.
  • Security: Regularly change your Wi-Fi password and router login credentials to strong, unique passwords to enhance network security.
  • External Antennas: If you experience weak cellular signal, consider purchasing and connecting compatible external SMA antennas to improve reception.
  • NFC Convenience: Utilize the NFC feature for quick and hassle-free Wi-Fi connections with compatible devices.

Related Documents - MF293N

Preview ZTE MF293N User Manual: Getting Started and Configuration
A comprehensive guide to setting up and using the ZTE MF293N 4G CPE device, including SIM card insertion, power connection, internet access, device settings, and troubleshooting.
Preview ZTE MF289F 4G CPE Quick Start Guide and User Manual
Get started with your ZTE MF289F 4G CPE. This guide covers setup, Wi-Fi, Mesh networking, telephone functions, troubleshooting, and safety information for the ZTE MF289F device.
Preview ZTE G5B: Ръководство за бърз старт и настройка
Научете как да настроите и използвате вашето ZTE G5B устройство с това изчерпателно ръководство. Включва инструкции за инсталиране на SIM карта, свързване към интернет чрез Wi-Fi или LAN и промяна на основни настройки.
Preview ZTE MC801A 5G CPE Getting Started Guide
A comprehensive guide to setting up and using the ZTE MC801A 5G CPE, covering installation, internet access, device settings, troubleshooting, and technical specifications.
Preview Ръководство за потребителя на 5G рутер ZTE MC888 от VIVACOM
Това ръководство предоставя подробна информация за настройка, свързване, използване и отстраняване на проблеми с 5G рутер ZTE MC888, предоставен от VIVACOM.
Preview ZTE MC888 Pro Quick Start Guide
This guide provides instructions for setting up and using the ZTE MC888 Pro 5G CPE device, including SIM card insertion, powering on, accessing the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and changing device settings.