ARRIS SURFboard mAX Tri-Band Mesh System WC4S

Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The ARRIS SURFboard mAX Tri-Band Mesh System WC4S is designed to provide comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, eliminating dead zones and delivering high-speed internet to all your devices. This system utilizes tri-band technology and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities to ensure optimal performance for streaming, gaming, and smart home integration.

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your SURFboard mAX Mesh System. Please read it carefully before beginning the installation process.

Two white ARRIS SURFboard mAX mesh Wi-Fi units with blue indicator lights.

Image: The ARRIS SURFboard mAX Tri-Band Mesh System WC4S, featuring two sleek white units designed to blend into home environments.

2. Package Contents

Before you begin, ensure all items are present in your package:

2 x ARRIS SURFboard mAX Mesh Routers (Nodes)
2 x Power Cords
1 x Ethernet Cable (for initial setup)
Quick Start Guide

3. Setup Guide

3.1. Hardware Connection

Unpack the Product: Carefully remove both SURFboard mAX units and their accessories from the box.
Position the Main Router: Place one of the SURFboard mAX units near your existing internet modem (cable, fiber, or DSL). This unit will serve as your main router.
Connect to Modem: Connect one end of the provided Ethernet cable to the WAN port (yellow) on the bottom of the main SURFboard mAX router. Connect the other end to an available Ethernet port on your internet modem.
Power On: Connect the power cord to the main SURFboard mAX router and plug it into an electrical outlet. Wait for the indicator light to turn solid blue, indicating it's ready.
Position the Satellite Node: Place the second SURFboard mAX unit (satellite node) in a central location within your home, ideally within range of the main router to ensure strong mesh connectivity.
Power On Satellite Node: Connect the power cord to the satellite node and plug it into an electrical outlet. It will automatically attempt to connect to the main router.

Bottom view of the ARRIS SURFboard mAX unit showing WAN and LAN ports, and power input.

Image: Detail of the bottom of the SURFboard mAX unit, highlighting the WAN (yellow) and LAN (gray) Gigabit Ethernet ports, and the power input.

3.2. App-Guided Setup

The SURFboard Central app simplifies the setup and management of your mesh network.

Download the App: Search for "SURFboard Central" in your mobile device's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and download it.
Launch and Follow Instructions: Open the SURFboard Central app. It will guide you through the remaining setup steps, including creating your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password, and ensuring both units are properly connected.
Customize Network Settings: Use the app to personalize your network settings, such as enabling guest networks, setting up parental controls, and prioritizing devices (QoS).

Screenshot of the SURFboard Central app showing unboxing instructions next to a SURFboard mAX unit.

Image: The SURFboard Central app providing step-by-step guidance for unboxing and setting up the mesh system.

4. Operating Your SURFboard mAX System

4.1. Key Features

Tri-Band Wi-Fi: Features three dedicated Wi-Fi bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and a dedicated 5GHz high-band for backhaul) to ensure optimal speed and performance across all connected devices.
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Support: Provides faster speeds, increased capacity, and improved efficiency compared to previous Wi-Fi standards, especially in device-dense environments.
Extensive Coverage: Designed to cover up to 5,500 sq ft, eliminating Wi-Fi dead zones in multi-story homes, basements, and outdoor areas.
Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Each node includes two 1 Gbps Ethernet ports for reliable wired connections to devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, or desktop computers.
Seamless Roaming: Devices automatically switch to the strongest Wi-Fi signal as you move around your home, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.

Infographic detailing SURFboard mAX AC3800 technical specifications: Wi-Fi 5 speeds up to 3800 Mbps, up to 5,500 sq ft coverage, 4 Ethernet ports, and up to 1Gbps internet speed support.

Image: Technical overview of the SURFboard mAX AC3800, highlighting its speed, coverage, and port capabilities.

4.2. SURFboard Central App Features

The SURFboard Central app provides comprehensive control over your home network:

Real-time Monitoring: View connected devices, network speed, and overall network health.
Parental Controls: Set time limits, pause internet access for specific devices, and filter content to manage your children's online activity.
Guest Network: Create a separate Wi-Fi network for guests, keeping your main network secure.
Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or applications (e.g., streaming, gaming) to ensure smooth performance.
Smart Home Integration (IFTTT): Connect your SURFboard mAX system with other smart home devices and services for enhanced automation.
"Who's Home" Feature: Receive alerts when devices connect to or disconnect from your network.

Screenshot of the SURFboard Central app interface showing network management options like real-time monitoring, parental controls, and guest network settings.

Image: The SURFboard Central app's dashboard, illustrating its capabilities for managing and optimizing your home network.

5. Maintenance

Firmware Updates: The SURFboard Central app will notify you of available firmware updates. It is recommended to keep your system's firmware up-to-date for optimal performance and security.
Optimal Placement: Ensure your mesh units are placed in open areas, away from large metal objects, thick walls, and other electronic devices that may cause interference.
Cleaning: Gently wipe the exterior of the units with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
Restarting: If you experience network issues, try restarting your main router and satellite nodes by unplugging them from power for 30 seconds and then plugging them back in.

6. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No Internet Connection	Modem issue, incorrect cable connection, router not powered on.	Check modem status lights. Ensure Ethernet cable is securely connected to WAN port. Restart modem and SURFboard mAX system.
Slow Wi-Fi Speed	Interference, too many devices, outdated firmware, poor node placement.	Relocate units away from interference. Update firmware via app. Check app for device prioritization (QoS). Ensure nodes are within optimal range of each other.
Wi-Fi Dead Zones	Insufficient coverage, improper node placement.	Add additional SURFboard mAX nodes if needed. Adjust placement of existing nodes to cover problematic areas.
Cannot Connect to App	Incorrect Wi-Fi password, app glitch, phone not connected to SURFboard Wi-Fi.	Ensure your phone is connected to the SURFboard mAX Wi-Fi network. Restart the app and your phone. Verify Wi-Fi password.

7. Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model Number	WC4S
Wireless Type	802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), compatible with Wi-Fi 6 devices
Frequency Band Class	Tri-Band (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 5 GHz High)
Wi-Fi Speed	Up to 3.8 Gbps (AC3800)
Coverage	Up to 5,500 sq ft
Backhaul	1.7 Gbps dedicated wireless backhaul
Ethernet Ports	2 x 1 Gbps Ethernet ports per node
Operating System	Linux
Dimensions (LxWxH)	4 x 4 x 8 inches
Item Weight	4.8 pounds
Color	White
Included Components	2 routers, Power cords
Compatible Devices	iPhone, cell phone, Tablet, computer, streaming devices, smart TV, IOT devices

8. Warranty & Support

8.1. Warranty Information

The ARRIS SURFboard mAX Tri-Band Mesh System WC4S comes with a 2-Year Limited Warranty provided by ARRIS. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact ARRIS Customer Support:

Live Chat: Available on the official ARRIS support website.
Phone Support: Available 8 AM - 1 AM EST. (Specific phone number not provided in source, refer to product packaging or official website).
Online Resources: Visit the ARRIS support website for FAQs, user guides, and software downloads.

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