Comfast CF-E13 WiFi6 4G LTE Router User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Comfast CF-E13 is a portable 4G card router designed for high-speed, efficient, and low-latency internet access. It supports WiFi6 and 4G LTE Cat.4 technologies, making it suitable for various internet usage scenarios, including home, mobile office, remote areas, and international travel. Simply insert a Nano SIM card to establish an internet connection without the need for traditional broadband.

1.1 Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• 1 x CF-E13 4G LTE Router
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Power Adapter (DC 12V/1A)
• 1 x Ethernet Cable

Image: Comfast CF-E13 Router and included accessories.

1.2 Device Layout

Familiarize yourself with the ports and buttons on your CF-E13 router:

Image: Side view of the CF-E13 router with labeled components.

• Foldable Rotatable Antennas: Four external high-gain antennas for enhanced signal.
• Indicator Lights: Display device status.
• DC Power Jack: For 12V/1A power adapter.
• Type-C Interface: Alternative 5V/2A power input.
• SIM Card Slot: For Nano SIM card.
• LAN Ports: Two 10/100Mbps RJ45 LAN ports for wired connections.
• WAN/LAN Port: One 10/100Mbps RJ45 port, configurable as WAN or LAN.
• WPS/RST Button: For WPS function or factory reset.
• Rotatable Base: Allows for vertical, horizontal, or wall-mount placement.

2. Setup Guide

2.1 Installation & Setup Video

For a visual guide on installation and setup, please watch the official video:

2.2 SIM Card Insertion

1. Ensure the router is powered off.
2. Locate the SIM card slot on the side of the device.
3. Insert a Nano SIM card into the slot. Ensure the notch on the SIM card aligns with the card slot logo.
4. Push the SIM card gently until it clicks into place.

Image: Illustration of SIM card types and correct Nano SIM insertion.

2.3 Powering On the Device

1. Connect the provided power adapter to the DC Power Jack or use a Type-C cable with a 5V/2A power source.
2. Plug the power adapter into a wall outlet.
3. The indicator lights on the router will illuminate, indicating it is powering on. Wait briefly for the device to fully boot up.

Image: Dual power input options (DC and Type-C) for the CF-E13 router.

2.4 Initial Network Connection

The CF-E13 supports two main operating modes:

• 4G Router Mode: Insert a SIM card to convert 4G mobile data into Wi-Fi (mobile hotspot) or provide a wired internet connection to devices like TVs and desktops.
• Regular Router Mode: Connect an Ethernet cable from your broadband modem to the WAN port to convert broadband internet into Wi-Fi (whole-home coverage) or provide wired connections to devices like gaming consoles and printers.

Image: Operational modes of the CF-E13 router.

2.4.1 Wireless Connection (Wi-Fi)

1. After the device is powered on, search for available Wi-Fi networks on your computer or mobile device.
2. Connect to the network named COMFAST-XXXX (where XXXX is a unique identifier).
3. The default Wi-Fi password is typically found on a sticker on the router.

2.4.2 Wired Connection (Broadband)

1. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your broadband modem.
2. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the WAN port (blue port) on the CF-E13 router.

3. Router Configuration

To access advanced settings and customize your router, use the web management interface.

3.1 Accessing the Web Interface

1. Ensure your device (computer, smartphone) is connected to the router's Wi-Fi or via an Ethernet cable.
2. Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
3. In the address bar, type 192.168.0.1 and press Enter.
4. You will be prompted for a username and password. The default credentials are:
   • Username: admin
   • Password: admin
5. Click "Login".

3.2 Wi-Fi Settings

After logging in, you can view the current status information of the device on the homepage. To change your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password:

1. On the left-hand menu, click "WiFi Settings".
2. In the "Network name (SSID)" field, enter your desired Wi-Fi network name.
3. In the "Pass phrase" field, enter your desired Wi-Fi password.
4. Click "Save" to apply the changes.

3.3 APN Settings (for 4G Mode)

For special APN customization needs, follow these steps:

1. Before setup: Confirm that the SIM card is valid and that the 4G dial-up settings of this router meet the setting requirements of your local operator.
2. On the left-hand menu, click "APN Settings".
3. Fill in the relevant information provided by your mobile operator (e.g., Profile, APN, Authentication, Username, Password).
4. Click "Apply" and then "Save".

3.4 Network Search Mode Settings (for 4G Mode)

If you experience base station signal blockage or poor network performance, you can manually select the optimal frequency band:

1. Ensure the SIM card is properly inserted and disconnect data on the setup homepage (if connected).
2. On the left-hand menu, select "Network Connection Settings".
3. In the "Network Search Mode" section, check the "Manual" option, then click "Search".
4. Wait 3-5 minutes for the router to scan for available networks.
5. Pick an available network from the list and click "Register". The device will register to the selected network.

Image: Optimizing signal reception by manually selecting frequency bands.

3.5 LTE Band Lock (for 4G Mode)

To lock the router to specific LTE bands for improved stability or performance:

1. On the left-hand menu, go to "Network Settings" -> "Lock LTE Bands".
2. Check the desired LTE bands (e.g., B1 FDD, B3 FDD, B7 FDD, etc.).
3. Click "Save" to take effect. You may need to confirm a device restart for settings to fully apply.

3.6 Network Port Working Mode (WAN/LAN/Auto)

You can configure the WAN/LAN port based on your network setup:

• WAN Mode (Normal Router Mode): Other networks provide internet to the wireless router via an Ethernet cable.
• LAN Mode: The wireless router provides internet to other routers via an Ethernet cable.
• Auto Mode: The wireless router automatically detects the network port mode.

1. On the left-hand menu, select "WAN" under "Advanced Settings".
2. Choose your preferred working mode (WAN, LAN, or Auto).
3. Fill in any necessary information (e.g., Username, Password for WAN connection).
4. Click "Apply" and then "Save".

4. Maintenance

4.1 Factory Reset

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

• With the router powered on, 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.

4.2 Cleaning

To maintain optimal performance, keep the router clean:

• Ensure the device is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the router.
• Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Internet Connection (4G Mode)

• Check SIM Card: Ensure the Nano SIM card is correctly inserted and active with your mobile operator.
• APN Settings: Verify that the APN settings in the web interface match those provided by your mobile operator.
• Network Search Mode: Try manually selecting a network band as described in Section 3.4.
• Signal Strength: Ensure the router is placed in an area with good 4G signal reception.

5.2 Poor Wi-Fi Signal or Speed

• Router Placement: Place the router in a central location, away from obstructions and interference sources (e.g., microwaves, cordless phones).
• Antenna Adjustment: Adjust the four external antennas for optimal signal direction.
• LTE Band Lock: Experiment with locking to different LTE bands (Section 3.5) to find the most stable one in your area.
• Device Load: Too many connected devices or high-bandwidth activities can slow down the network.

5.3 Cannot Access Web Management Interface

• IP Address: Ensure you are entering the correct IP address: 192.168.0.1.
• Connection: Verify your device is connected to the router's Wi-Fi or via an Ethernet cable.
• Browser Cache: Clear your browser's cache and cookies, or try a different browser.
• Factory Reset: If all else fails, perform a factory reset (Section 4.1) to revert to default settings.

6. Specifications

Image: Detailed technical specifications of the CF-E13 router.

7. User Tips

• Correct SIM Card Size: Always use a Nano SIM card (12x9mm) and ensure its notch is correctly aligned with the card slot logo during insertion to prevent damage.
• Optimal Placement: For the best 4G signal and Wi-Fi coverage, place the router in an open area, away from large metal objects, thick walls, or other electronic devices that might cause interference. Consider using the wall-mount option if it provides better signal.
• Power Flexibility: Take advantage of the dual power input (DC 12V/1A or Type-C 5V/2A) for versatile use in both fixed setups and mobile scenarios.
• Manual Band Selection: If you experience inconsistent 4G performance, try manually selecting specific LTE bands in the router's web interface to find the most stable connection for your location.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What type of SIM card does the CF-E13 router use?

A: The router uses a Nano SIM card. Ensure it is correctly inserted with the notch aligned.

Q: What are the default login credentials for the web interface?

A: The default IP address is 192.168.0.1. The default username and password are both admin.

Q: How do I change the Wi-Fi network name and password?

A: Access the web interface, navigate to "WiFi Settings" on the left-hand menu, and update the SSID and password fields. Remember to click "Save".

Q: Can I use this router with a wired internet connection instead of a SIM card?

A: Yes, the CF-E13 supports a "Regular Router Mode". Connect an Ethernet cable from your broadband modem to the WAN port on the router.

Q: How can I improve the 4G signal strength or network stability?

A: You can try manually selecting the optimal frequency band in the router's web interface under "Network Settings" -> "Lock LTE Bands". Also, ensure the router is placed in an area with good signal reception.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Refer to the product packaging or the official Comfast website for contact details.