1. Introduction
The HUAWEI 5G CPE Pro 3 H138-380 is an advanced mobile hotspot and wireless router designed to provide high-speed internet connectivity using 5G and 4G LTE networks. Featuring Wi-Fi 6 technology, it offers fast and reliable wireless access for multiple devices. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.
This image shows the HUAWEI 5G CPE Pro 3 H138-380 device alongside its retail packaging, highlighting its sleek design.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package contents upon unboxing:
- HUAWEI 5G CPE Pro 3 H138-380 Device
- Power Adapter
- Ethernet Cable
- Quick Start Guide (not included in this manual)
The image displays the main device, power adapter, and an Ethernet cable, which are typically included in the package.
3. Product Overview
3.1 Front Panel
The front panel features LED indicators for device status and network connectivity.
- 5G Indicator: Shows 5G network status.
- 4G Indicator: Shows 4G network status.
- STATUS Indicator: Indicates device operational status.
- WPS Button: For easy Wi-Fi Protected Setup connections.
This image highlights the 5G logo and the LED indicators (5G, 4G, STATUS) on the front of the CPE Pro 3.
3.2 Rear Panel
The rear panel provides various ports for wired connections.
- WAN/LAN Ethernet Port (RJ45): 1 x Gigabit port for either WAN or LAN connection.
- LAN Ethernet Port (RJ45): 1 x Gigabit port for LAN connection.
- Telephone Port (RJ11): 1 x port for telephone connection.
- Power Input: DC power input.
The image shows the back of the router, detailing the WAN/LAN, LAN, and telephone ports, along with the power input.
3.3 Bottom Panel
The bottom panel houses the SIM card slot and reset button.
- Nano-SIM Card Slot: For inserting your Nano-SIM card.
- RESET Button: Used to restore factory settings.
This image shows the bottom of the device, clearly indicating the Nano SIM card slot and the recessed reset button. It also displays the model number (H138-380), default Wi-Fi names (H138-380_068F, H138-380_E714_5G), default Wi-Fi password (gR4LnMDiNah), default IP address (192.168.8.1), WPS PIN (66722526), and input voltage (12V === 2A).
4. Setup Instructions
4.1 Inserting the Nano-SIM Card
- Ensure the device is powered off.
- Locate the Nano-SIM card slot on the bottom panel (refer to Figure 5).
- Insert the Nano-SIM card into the slot with the gold contacts facing down and the notched corner aligned correctly. Push until it clicks into place.
4.2 Powering On the Device
- Connect the power adapter to the power input port on the rear panel.
- Plug the power adapter into a power outlet.
- The device will automatically power on. Wait for the LED indicators to stabilize.
4.3 Initial Wi-Fi Connection
- On your computer or mobile device, search for available Wi-Fi networks.
- Select the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) displayed on the bottom label of your device (e.g., H138-380_068F or H138-380_E714_5G).
- Enter the Wi-Fi password provided on the bottom label (e.g., gR4LnMDiNah).
- Your device should now be connected to the internet.
4.4 Accessing the Web Management Interface
- Open a web browser on a device connected to the CPE Pro 3's Wi-Fi or LAN.
- Enter the IP address `192.168.8.1` into the browser's address bar and press Enter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up an administrator password and configure network settings as needed.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Understanding LED Indicators
- 5G Indicator:
- Solid Blue: Connected to 5G network.
- Blinking Blue: Connecting to 5G network.
- Off: Not connected to 5G network.
- 4G Indicator:
- Solid Green: Connected to 4G network.
- Blinking Green: Connecting to 4G network.
- Off: Not connected to 4G network.
- STATUS Indicator:
- Solid White: Device is operating normally.
- Blinking White: Device is starting up or updating firmware.
- Red: No SIM card, SIM card error, or network error.
5.2 Connecting Devices
5.2.1 Wi-Fi Connection
Connect your wireless devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) to the CPE Pro 3 using the Wi-Fi network name and password found on the device's bottom label.
5.2.2 Ethernet Connection
For wired devices (desktop computers, gaming consoles), connect an Ethernet cable from the device to one of the LAN ports on the rear panel of the CPE Pro 3.
5.2.3 WPS Connection
Press the WPS button on the front panel of the CPE Pro 3, then activate WPS on your client device within two minutes to establish a secure wireless connection without entering the password.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Restoring Factory Settings
If you forget your administrator password or encounter persistent issues, you can restore the device to its factory settings.
- Ensure the device is powered on.
- Use a pointed object (like a paperclip) to press and hold the RESET button on the bottom panel for approximately 5-10 seconds until the indicators flash.
- Release the button. The device will restart with factory default settings.
Warning: Restoring factory settings will erase all custom configurations, including Wi-Fi name, password, and administrator password.
6.2 Firmware Updates
Periodically check for firmware updates via the web management interface to ensure optimal performance and security. Follow the instructions provided in the interface for updating the firmware.
6.3 Cleaning the Device
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Internet Access:
- Check if the SIM card is correctly inserted and activated.
- Verify the 5G/4G indicators are solid, indicating network connection.
- Ensure your data plan is active and has available data.
- Try restarting the device.
- Slow Internet Speed:
- Relocate the device to an area with better signal reception.
- Reduce the number of connected devices or active applications.
- Check for network congestion in your area.
- Cannot Connect to Wi-Fi:
- Ensure you are entering the correct Wi-Fi password.
- Check if the Wi-Fi function is enabled via the web management interface.
- Try restarting both the CPE Pro 3 and your client device.
- Web Management Interface Inaccessible:
- Ensure your device is connected to the CPE Pro 3's network.
- Verify you are using the correct IP address (192.168.8.1).
- Clear your browser's cache or try a different browser.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Type | 5G WiFi Router |
| Model | H138-380 |
| Network Mode | NSA / SA |
| 5G Bands | n1/n3/n5/n7/n8/n20/n28 (UL: 703~733MHz/DL: 758~788MHz)/n38/n40 (2300-2390MHz)/n41/n71/n77/n78/n79 |
| 4G LTE Bands | B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B18/B19/B20/B26/B28/B32/B34/B38/B39/B40(2300-2390 MHz)/B41/B42/B43 |
| 5G Transmission Rate (DL/UL) | 3.6Gbps / 250Mbps (Theoretical) |
| LTE Transmission Rate (DL/UL) | 1.6Gbps / 150Mbps (Theoretical) |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6, compatible with 802.11b/g/n/a/ac/ax |
| Wi-Fi Frequency Band | 2.4GHz & 5GHz, dual-band auto-selection |
| 5GHz Wi-Fi Transmission Rate | 1201Mbps (Theoretical) |
| 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Transmission Rate | 574 Mbps (Theoretical) |
| WAN/LAN Ports | 1 x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) |
| LAN Ports | 1 x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) |
| Telephone Port | 1 x RJ11 |
| SIM Card Slot | 1 x Nano-SIM |
| Antenna | Built-in 5G/LTE primary/secondary, Built-in WiFi 2.4/5 GHz |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 103 mm (Top) x 103 mm (Bottom) x 225 mm (Height) |
| Weight | 915g (excluding PSU) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C ~ 40 °C |
| Storage Temperature | -20 °C ~ 70 °C |
| Certification | CE /RoHS/REACH/WEEE/Wi-Fi/ErP |
| Origin | Mainland China |
This image provides a table of key specifications for the 5G CPE Pro 3, including network bands and data rates.
This image complements the previous one with additional specifications such as Wi-Fi transmission rates and port configurations.
9. User Tips
- Optimal Placement: For the best signal reception, place the CPE Pro 3 near a window or in an open area, away from obstructions and other electronic devices that might cause interference.
- Network Mode Selection: If you experience inconsistent 5G performance, consider checking the network mode settings in the web management interface. Sometimes, forcing a 4G connection can provide more stable speeds in areas with weak 5G coverage.
- Wi-Fi Channel Optimization: If you encounter slow Wi-Fi speeds, try changing the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to find less congested channels in your environment.
- Regular Restarts: A periodic restart (e.g., once a week) can help maintain optimal performance and resolve minor network glitches.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the retailer/manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
