ZTE MC801A Pro 5G Indoor CPE Wi-Fi 6 Router User Manual

1. Introduction

The ZTE MC801A Pro is a high-performance 5G Indoor Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) designed to provide ultra-fast internet connectivity. Featuring the new generation Qualcomm SDX62 platform and Wi-Fi 6 technology, it offers superior speed, wide coverage, and supports both NSA and SA dual-mode 5G networks. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your device.

2. Package Contents

Please check the package contents carefully. If any item is missing or damaged, contact your vendor.

• ZTE MC801A Pro 5G Indoor CPE
• Power Adapter (AC input: 100V-240V 50Hz/60Hz, DC output: 12V/1.5A)
• Ethernet Cable
• Quick Start Guide / User Manual
• Warranty Card

Figure 2.1: ZTE MC801A Pro and included accessories.

3. Device Overview

3.1 Front Panel Indicators

Figure 3.1: Front view with LED indicators.

• SIGNAL LED: Indicates the strength of the 5G/4G cellular signal.
• NETWORK LED: Indicates the status of the cellular network connection (e.g., 5G, 4G, no service).
• WIFI LED: Indicates the status of the Wi-Fi network.
• POWER LED: Indicates the power status of the device.

3.2 Rear Panel Ports and Buttons

Figure 3.2: Rear view with ports and buttons.

• WPS Button: For quick Wi-Fi Protected Setup.
• PHONE Port (RJ11): For connecting a telephone for VoLTE/CSFB services.
• LAN Ports (2x Gigabit RJ45): For connecting wired devices. One port also functions as a WAN port.
• RESET Button: Used to restore factory default settings (press and hold for 5 seconds).
• Power Adapter Port: For connecting the power supply.
• SIM Card Slot (4FF): For inserting your Nano-SIM card.

3.3 Bottom Label

Figure 3.3: Bottom label with device information.

The bottom label contains important information such as the device's Serial Number (S/N), IMEI, default Wi-Fi SSID, Wi-Fi Key, Device Manager Website address (e.g., http://192.168.0.1), and the default password for accessing the web interface.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 SIM Card Installation

1. Ensure the device is powered off.
2. Locate the SIM card slot on the rear panel.
3. Insert a standard 4FF (Nano-SIM) card into the slot with the gold contacts facing down and the notched corner oriented correctly. Push until it clicks into place.
4. To remove the SIM card, gently push it in again until it springs out.

4.2 Powering On the Device

1. Connect the power adapter to the Power Adapter Port on the rear of the CPE.
2. Plug the other end of the power adapter into a suitable electrical outlet.
3. The device will automatically power on, and the Power LED on the front panel will illuminate.

4.3 Initial Network Connection

Once powered on, the device will attempt to connect to the 5G/4G network. Observe the SIGNAL and NETWORK LEDs:

• SIGNAL LED: Will indicate signal strength (e.g., green for strong, amber for moderate, red for weak/no signal).
• NETWORK LED: Will indicate network type (e.g., blue for 5G, green for 4G).

For optimal performance, place the CPE in an open area, away from obstructions, and near a window if possible, to ensure the best cellular signal reception.

4.4 Accessing the Web Management Interface

1. Connect your computer to the CPE via Wi-Fi (using the SSID and Wi-Fi Key from the bottom label) or via an Ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports.
2. Open a web browser and enter the Device Manager Website address (e.g., http://192.168.0.1) into the address bar.
3. Enter the default password found on the bottom label to log in.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions for initial setup, including changing the default Wi-Fi name and password for security.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Connecting Devices

• Wi-Fi Connection: Search for the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) on your devices and enter the Wi-Fi Key. The CPE supports up to 64 Wi-Fi users simultaneously.
• WPS Connection: Press the WPS button on the rear panel of the CPE, then activate WPS on your Wi-Fi device within two minutes to establish a connection without entering the password.
• Ethernet Connection: Connect devices like computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles to the LAN ports using Ethernet cables for a stable wired connection.
• Telephone Connection: If supported by your SIM card and service provider, connect a standard telephone to the RJ11 PHONE port for VoLTE/CSFB calls.

5.2 Network Features

• 5G NSA+SA Dual Mode: The device automatically switches between Non-Standalone (NSA) and Standalone (SA) 5G networks for optimal performance and coverage.
• Carrier Aggregation (CA) & ENDC Technology: These technologies enhance spectrum utilization, leading to higher data rates, lower latency, and improved network reliability, especially in suburban and rural areas.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): Enjoy faster speeds (up to 3600Mbps peak rate), improved efficiency, and better performance in congested environments with Wi-Fi 6 compatible devices.
• Dual-Band Wi-Fi: The CPE operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, providing flexibility for various devices and reducing interference.
• High Gain Antenna: The integrated 12dBi high gain antenna improves signal reception and penetration, offering stronger signals and wider coverage indoors.
• 5G and Wired Broadband Dual Network: The device supports both cellular and wired broadband internet access. In case of a failure in one mode, it can seamlessly switch to the other to maintain network stability.

Figure 5.1: Advanced 5G Network Technologies.

Figure 5.2: Wi-Fi 6 Capabilities.

Figure 5.3: High Gain Antenna Performance.

Figure 5.4: 5G and Wired Broadband Dual Network.

6. Maintenance

• Resetting to Factory Defaults: If you encounter persistent issues or forget your login credentials, you can reset the device. With the device powered on, use a pin to press and hold the RESET button on the rear panel for approximately 5 seconds until the LEDs flash. The device will restart with factory default settings.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the web management interface for available firmware updates. Keeping your device's firmware up-to-date ensures optimal performance, security, and access to new features.
• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols. Ensure the device is powered off before cleaning.
• Placement: Avoid placing the device in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with high humidity. Ensure adequate ventilation around the device.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 LED Indicator Guide

7.2 Common Issues and Solutions

• No Internet Connection:
  • Check the NETWORK LED. If red, ensure SIM card is correctly inserted and has an active data plan.
  • Relocate the CPE to an area with better cellular signal (check SIGNAL LED).
  • Restart the device by unplugging and re-plugging the power adapter.
  • Verify APN settings in the web management interface (consult your mobile operator).
• Slow Internet Speed:
  • Check SIGNAL LED for optimal signal strength.
  • Ensure your connected devices support Wi-Fi 6 for best Wi-Fi performance.
  • Reduce the number of connected devices or move closer to the CPE.
  • Try connecting via Ethernet to rule out Wi-Fi issues.
• Cannot Access Web Management Interface:
  • Ensure your device is connected to the CPE's Wi-Fi or via Ethernet.
  • Verify you are using the correct IP address (e.g., http://192.168.0.1).
  • Clear your browser's cache or try a different browser.
  • If you forgot the password, perform a factory reset (see Section 6).

8. Specifications

Figure 8.1: Supported Network Bands.

9. User Tips

• Optimal Placement: For the best 5G/4G signal, experiment with different locations in your home or office. Higher locations or near windows often yield better results.
• Security: Always change the default Wi-Fi SSID, Wi-Fi Key, and web management password immediately after initial setup to protect your network.
• Guest Network: Utilize the guest Wi-Fi feature (if available in the web UI) to provide internet access to visitors without sharing your main network password.
• Wired Connections: For devices that require maximum stability and speed (e.g., desktop computers, gaming consoles), use the Gigabit Ethernet ports.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included in your package or contact your point of purchase. For technical support, please reach out to the vendor or ZTE customer service. Keep your purchase receipt and device serial number handy when contacting support.