Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 Cellular Router User Manual

1. Introduction

The Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 is a compact and robust cellular router designed to provide reliable internet connectivity in various environments. It features an embedded CAT-7 LTE modem, Wi-Fi capabilities, and multiple Ethernet ports, making it suitable for mobile, remote, and industrial applications. This manual provides instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.

2. What's in the Box

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1x Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 Router
• 4x LTE Antennas (ACW-235)
• 1x 12V 2A 4-pin Power Supply (ACW-632)

3. Physical Overview

Familiarize yourself with the ports, indicators, and physical features of your Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 router.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 router with four LTE antennas connected.

Figure 3.2: Rear panel of the router displaying three Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports (LAN 1 with 802.3at PoE IN, LAN 2, and LAN 3/WAN), status LEDs for Wi-Fi and Cellular, and the DC power input.

Figure 3.3: Detailed diagram highlighting the flexible power options (802.3at PoE Input / Power Port), built-in Wi-Fi, LTE-A Modem, full router functionality, GPIO & Ignition Sensing, SMA GPS Antenna Connector, Redundant SIM Slots, and Wi-Fi 5 antennas.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 Antenna Installation

Connect the four provided LTE antennas to the corresponding SMA connectors on the router. Ensure they are securely tightened. For optimal performance, position the antennas vertically.

4.2 SIM Card Installation

The MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 supports redundant SIM slots. To install a SIM card:

1. Locate the SIM card slot(s) on the device.
2. Insert your activated Nano-SIM card(s) into the slot(s) until it clicks into place. Ensure the SIM card is oriented correctly as indicated on the device.
3. The device also supports a built-in eSIM for flexible cellular connectivity options.

4.3 Power Connection

Connect the included 12V 2A 4-pin power supply to the DC IN port on the router, then plug the adapter into a power outlet. Alternatively, the device supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) via LAN 1 (802.3at PoE IN) for power delivery.

4.4 Initial Configuration

After powering on, the router will boot up. You can access the web administration interface by connecting a computer to one of the LAN ports or via Wi-Fi. Open a web browser and navigate to the default IP address (typically 192.168.50.1). Refer to the quick start guide for default login credentials.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Basic Connectivity

The router provides three 10/100/1000M Ethernet LAN ports for wired connections. It also features simultaneous dual-band (2.4GHz / 5GHz) Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) for wireless devices. The Wi-Fi can operate as both a Wi-Fi WAN client and an Access Point.

5.2 Cellular WAN

The embedded CAT-7 cellular modem provides primary or backup internet connectivity with uplink speeds up to 150Mbps and downlink speeds up to 300Mbps. The redundant SIM slots allow for seamless failover between cellular providers.

5.3 Dual WAN Configuration

LAN port 3 can be configured as a WAN port, enabling dual WAN functionality. This feature requires a PrimeCare subscription or a Feature Pack Add-on license. Dual WAN allows for load balancing or failover between different internet sources (e.g., cellular and wired WAN).

5.4 VPN Capabilities

The router supports VPN connections, with 2 PepVPN Peers enabled by default. A PrimeCare subscription expands this to 5 PepVPN Peers, enhancing secure remote access capabilities.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Firmware Updates

Regularly check for and install firmware updates to ensure optimal performance, security, and access to new features. Firmware updates can typically be performed through the router's web administration interface.

6.2 Cleaning

Keep the router clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 router.

7.1 No Internet Connection

• Check SIM Card: Ensure the SIM card is correctly inserted and activated with your cellular provider.
• Antenna Connection: Verify that all LTE antennas are securely connected.
• Signal Strength: Check the cellular signal strength in the router's web interface. Relocate the router if the signal is weak.
• WAN Status: Confirm that the cellular WAN is enabled and connected in the router's settings.

7.2 Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues

• Wi-Fi Enabled: Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled in the router's settings.
• SSID and Password: Verify that you are connecting to the correct Wi-Fi network (SSID) and using the correct password.
• Interference: Move the router away from other electronic devices that might cause interference.

7.3 Device Not Powering On

• Power Supply: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the router and a working power outlet.
• PoE Check: If using PoE, verify that the PoE injector or switch is providing power and connected to LAN 1.

8. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Peplink MAX BR1 Mini CAT-7 Cellular Router:

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Peplink website or contact your authorized Peplink reseller. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy for any support inquiries.

Online resources, including firmware downloads and knowledge base articles, are available on the Peplink support portal.