TP-Link TL-MR3020 N150 Wireless 3G/4G Portable Router User Manual

1. Introduction

The TP-Link TL-MR3020 is a compact N150 Wireless 3G/4G Portable Router designed to provide a shared internet connection from a 3G/4G USB modem. Its portable design and multiple operating modes make it suitable for various scenarios, including travel, camping, or temporary network setups. This manual provides instructions for setting up, configuring, and maintaining your TL-MR3020 router.

2. Product Overview

2.1 Key Features

• Interface: 1 10/100Mbps WAN/LAN Port, USB 2.0 Port for 3G modem, a mini USB Port for power supply.
• Button: Quick Setup Security Button (WPS), Reset Button, Mode Switch.
• External Power Supply: 5VDC/1.0A.
• Wireless Standards: IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b.
• Compatible with over 120 UMTS/HSPA/EVDO 3G USB modems.
• Portable design, small and light for travel.
• Wireless speed up to 150Mbps.
• Three operating modes: 3G Router, WISP Client Router, and Travel Router (AP Mode).
• IP-based bandwidth control for managing network usage.
• 3G/WAN failover for a sustained internet connection.

2.2 Package Contents

• TL-MR3020 Router
• Quick Installation Guide
• Power Adapter
• USB Cable
• Resource CD
• Ethernet Cable

2.3 Physical Description and Ports

The TL-MR3020 features a compact white casing with indicator LEDs on the front and various ports and buttons on its sides.

Image 1: Front view of the TL-MR3020 router. This image displays the top surface of the router, showing the TP-Link logo, the model number '300Mbps TL-MR3020', and a vertical row of LED indicators for Power, Internet, Wireless, and WPS/Reset functions. A USB port labeled '3G/4G USB' is visible on the right side.

Image 2: Rear view of the TL-MR3020 router. This image shows the back panel of the router, featuring a mode selection switch with options for '3G/4G', 'WISP', and 'AP'. To the right of the switch are the WAN/LAN port, a Mini USB 'POWER' port, and the '3G/4G USB' port.

• LED Indicators: Display the status of power, internet connection, wireless activity, and WPS/Reset.
• Mode Switch: Allows selection between 3G/4G Router, WISP Client Router, and AP (Access Point) modes.
• WAN/LAN Port: An Ethernet port for connecting to a wired network or an internet source.
• Mini USB Power Port: Used to supply power to the device via the included power adapter or a laptop's USB port.
• 3G/4G USB Port: Connects a compatible 3G/4G USB modem to share its mobile internet connection.
• WPS/Reset Button: Initiates Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) for quick security configuration or resets the device to factory defaults when held down.

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Powering On the Router

1. Connect the provided USB cable to the Mini USB Power Port on the TL-MR3020.
2. Connect the other end of the USB cable to the included power adapter and plug it into an electrical outlet, or connect it to a USB port on your laptop.
3. The Power LED indicator on the router will illuminate, indicating the device is powered on.

3.2 Connecting a 3G/4G USB Modem

To share a mobile internet connection, a compatible 3G/4G USB modem is required.

1. Insert your 3G/4G USB modem into the 3G/4G USB Port on the TL-MR3020.
2. Ensure the modem is securely connected. The router will attempt to detect and configure the modem automatically.

3.3 Selecting an Operating Mode

The TL-MR3020 features a mode switch to select its operating function. Choose the appropriate mode based on your network requirements:

• 3G/4G Router Mode: Shares a 3G/4G mobile broadband connection via a USB modem.
• WISP Client Router Mode: Connects to an existing wireless network (WISP) and shares it wirelessly or via the LAN port.
• AP (Access Point) Mode: Creates a wireless network from a wired Ethernet connection.

Slide the mode switch to your desired operating mode. The router may reboot after changing the mode.

3.4 Initial Configuration (Web Interface)

To access the router's web-based management interface for detailed configuration:

1. Connect your computer to the router wirelessly (using the default SSID found on the product label) or via an Ethernet cable to the WAN/LAN port.
2. Open a web browser and enter the default access address (e.g., http://tplinkwifi.net or http://192.168.0.1) in the address bar. Refer to the Quick Installation Guide for the exact default address and login credentials.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup, including setting up your internet connection and wireless network name (SSID) and password.

3.5 Wireless Security Setup (WPS)

The TL-MR3020 supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) for quick and secure wireless connection:

1. Press the WPS button on the TL-MR3020.
2. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your wireless client (e.g., laptop, smartphone).
3. The devices will automatically establish a WPA2 secure connection.

4. Operating Modes

4.1 3G/4G Router Mode

In this mode, the router shares the internet connection from a connected 3G/4G USB modem. It acts as a central hub, allowing multiple devices to access the internet wirelessly.

• Use Case: Sharing mobile broadband on the go, in areas without wired internet access.
• Configuration: Ensure the 3G/4G USB modem is inserted and detected. Configure modem settings via the web interface if necessary.

4.2 Travel Router (AP) Mode

In AP mode, the router converts a wired internet connection into a wireless network. This is useful in hotels or locations with only Ethernet access.

• Use Case: Creating a personal Wi-Fi hotspot from a hotel's Ethernet port.
• Configuration: Connect an Ethernet cable from the internet source to the router's WAN/LAN port.

4.3 WISP Client Router Mode

WISP Client Router mode allows the device to connect wirelessly to an existing Wi-Fi network (e.g., a public hotspot) and then re-broadcast that connection as a new, private Wi-Fi network.

• Use Case: Extending the range of a public Wi-Fi hotspot or creating a private network from it.
• Configuration: Scan for available wireless networks via the web interface and connect to the desired WISP network.

5. Advanced Features

5.1 IP QoS (Bandwidth Control)

The IP QoS function allows you to manage bandwidth allocation for connected devices. This helps prevent bandwidth abuse and ensures critical applications receive sufficient bandwidth.

• Access the IP QoS settings through the router's web management interface.
• Configure bandwidth limits for specific IP addresses or applications as needed.

5.2 3G/WAN Failover

The 3G/WAN failover feature ensures a continuous internet connection by automatically switching between a 3G/4G USB modem connection and a wired WAN connection if one fails.

• This feature can be configured in the router's web interface to prioritize either the 3G/4G or WAN connection.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Firmware Updates

Regularly updating the router's firmware can improve performance, add new features, and enhance compatibility with 3G/4G USB modems.

1. Visit the official TP-Link support website (www.tp-link.com/en/support/download/) to download the latest firmware for your TL-MR3020 model.
2. Follow the instructions provided with the firmware download for the update process. It is crucial not to interrupt the update process.

6.2 General Care

• Keep the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Avoid exposing the router to water or excessive humidity.
• Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 3G/4G USB Modem Not Recognized

• Firmware Update: Ensure your router has the latest firmware. Download it from www.tp-link.com/en/support/download/.
• Modem Compatibility: Check the modem compatibility list on the TP-Link website. If your modem is listed but not recognized, check for a specific '.bin' file for your modem at www.tp-link.us/support/3g/.
• Contact Support: If issues persist, contact TP-Link technical support.

7.2 No Internet Connection

• Verify that the 3G/4G USB modem is functioning correctly when connected directly to a computer.
• Check the LED indicators on the router. The Internet LED should be lit or blinking.
• Ensure the correct operating mode is selected via the mode switch.
• Review the internet connection settings in the router's web interface.

7.3 Wireless Connection Issues

• Confirm that the Wireless LED indicator is active.
• Check your wireless network name (SSID) and password.
• Ensure your wireless client is within range of the router.
• Try restarting both the router and your wireless client device.

8. Product Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information

The TP-Link TL-MR3020 comes with an industry-leading 2-year warranty.

9.2 Technical Support

For technical assistance, please contact TP-Link support:

• Technical Support Hotline: +1 866 225 8139
• Hotline en Français: +1 855 987 5465
• Online Support: Visit www.tp-link.us/support/contact/