TCL MS1G Mesh WiFi System User Manual

Read this first

• Before using this documentation and the device it supports, ensure you read and understand the "Appendix A. Important safety information" on page 14.
• Illustrations in this documentation might look different from your device.
• Instructions in this documentation may vary depending on your device model and software version.
• Some apps and features are not available in all countries or regions. App and feature availability is subject to change.
• Documentation content is subject to change without notice. TCL makes constant improvements on the documentation of your device, including this user manual.
• TCL Communication Ltd. does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product described herein. Every effort has been made in the preparation of this documentation to ensure accuracy of the contents, but all statements, information and recommendations in this documentation do not constitute the warranty of any kind, express or implied.

Chapter 1. Overview

TCL Mesh is a whole home Wi-Fi mesh system. It creates a seamless and reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, making sure your devices stay on the optimal Wi-Fi channel.

1.1 Top view

The top of the TCL MS1G unit features an LED indicator.

• LED indicator:
• Solid green: excellent signal strength.
• Solid yellow: good signal strength.
• Solid red: weak signal strength.
• Blinking green slowly: scanning for available network.
• Blinking green fast: connecting to the network.

1.2 Bottom view

The bottom of the TCL MS1G unit has the following ports and buttons:

Chapter 2. Download the TCL WiFi app

Use the TCL WiFi app to set up and manage your mesh network. Scan the QR code below to install the TCL WiFi app on your mobile device.

Note: The QR code is also printed on the bottom label of your mesh point.

Alternatively, you can install the TCL WiFi app from either the Google Play (Android) or the App Store (iOS).

Chapter 3. Set up TCL Mesh

This chapter introduces the basic instructions on how to set up and manage your mesh network and how to make connections.

3.1 Set up the primary node

The first mesh point you set up serves as the primary node, and the rest mesh points as the secondary nodes.

Note: Set up the node on a hard, stable work surface that allows for adequate air circulation around the node.

To set up the primary node, follow these steps:

1. Plug in the primary node using the included power adapter.
2. Connect the WAN port of the primary node to an internet source using the included Ethernet cable. When the setup is complete, the LED indicator blinks green fast, then turns solid green.

A diagram shows the WAN and Power ports on the bottom of the device.

3.2 Connect the primary node to TCL Mesh

To connect the primary node to the TCL Mesh network, follow these steps:

1. Plug in the primary node using the included power adapter.
2. Connect the WAN port of the primary node to an internet source using the included Ethernet cable.
3. From your mobile device's WLAN or Wi-Fi settings, select the Wi-Fi network of the primary node and make an internet connection. Find the default Wi-Fi name and password on the bottom label of the node.
4. Open the TCL WiFi app on your mobile device.
5. Tap Setup > Next. You will be prompted to change the Wi-Fi name and password.
6. Connect your mobile device to the Wi-Fi network you just created.
7. Open the TCL WiFi app, and you will find the primary node is connected to your TCL Mesh.

3.3 Connect the secondary nodes to TCL Mesh

The mesh nodes in the same kit have already been paired with each other. In this case, follow these steps:

1. Place the secondary node in an open space no more than two rooms away from the existing nodes.
2. Plug in the secondary node using the included power adapter.
3. The secondary node will automatically connect to the existing mesh network. Once the connection is complete, the LED indicator of the secondary node flashes solid green.

Note: If the connection is not optimal, the LED indicator flashes either solid yellow or solid red. You can place your node closer to the existing nodes and try again.

A diagram illustrates a house with three mesh nodes connected, showing optimal placement.

If you want to connect a new mesh node to your existing TCL Mesh network, follow these steps:

1. Place the new node in an open space no more than two rooms away from the existing nodes.
2. Plug in the new node using the included power adapter.
3. Open the TCL WiFi app on your mobile device.
4. Tap Settings > Add Mesh Point, then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the procedure.

Note: Find the QR code or the SN on the bottom label of the node.

5. Once the connection is complete, the LED indicator of the new node flashes solid green.

Note: If the connection is not optimal, the LED indicator flashes either solid yellow or solid red. You can place your node closer to the existing nodes and try again.

Chapter 4. Explore more with the TCL WiFi app

This chapter introduces how to configure your TCL Mesh network via the TCL WiFi app. Use the TCL WiFi app on your mobile device to quickly check download and upload speed, change Wi-Fi name and password, configure guest network, and more.

4.1 My WiFi

The My WiFi section gives you a general view of the TCL Mesh network, including the Wi-Fi name, the number of mesh nodes, the number of connected devices, and the download and upload speed, etc.

A screenshot of the My WiFi interface shows:

• Wi-Fi name (e.g., TCL Mesh)
• An icon with a question mark (?) that, when tapped, displays general problems encountered when using the TCL Mesh network.
• Information about the primary and secondary nodes, including connection status and SN. You can also associate the node with a location and enable or disable the LED indicator.
• A section to show all client devices connected to the TCL Mesh network. You can modify descriptions, view details, or add devices to groups or blacklists by tapping the device name.
• Download and upload speed indicators (e.g., 0.1 Mbps).
• An icon that displays internet connection details, such as connection status, connection type, and IP address.

The interface also includes navigation buttons for "My WiFi" and "Settings".

4.2 Settings

The Settings section mainly includes Wireless Settings, Guest Network, Parental Control, Internet Settings, IPv6, QoS, Add Mesh Point, Fast Roaming, Capacity-oriented Mode, Smart Assistant, Port Forwarding, UPnP, DHCP Server, DNS, Date & Time, Firmware Upgrade, Maintenance Schedule, and About App Version.

Wireless Settings

You can change the Wi-Fi name and password in this option. You need to reconnect to the TCL Mesh network after changing the Wi-Fi name or password.

Tap the [share icon] at the upper-right corner to share the Wi-Fi name and password.

Guest Network

This function is disabled by default. Once you enable it, your guests can reach the internet without accessing your primary TCL Mesh network.

Parental Control

In this function, you can manage which client devices can access the internet, and also set an internet access schedule for the client devices.

Internet Settings

You can set the connection mode to PPPoE, DHCP, Static IP Address, or Bridge.

• PPPoE: Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) is a network protocol that is mainly used for DSL services whereby individual users connect to a modem using an Ethernet connection. Enter the username and password provided by your internet service provider (ISP), and click Save.
• DHCP: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a client or server protocol that automatically provides you with an Internet Protocol (IP) host. The IP address and related configuration settings such as subnet mask and default gateway are all automatically assigned.
• Static IP Address: Access the internet using a fixed IP address, subnet mask, gateway IP address and Primary DNS server. These information should be provided by your ISP.
• Bridge: Before selecting this mode, you need to connect your primary node to the LAN port of an internet-connected router. Note: If the Bridge mode is selected, the Guest Network, Parental Control, Port Forwarding, UPnP, DNS, QoS and DHCP Server functions will not be available.

IPv6

Enable or disable the IPv6 function in this option.

QoS

Quality of Service (QoS) is an advanced feature that prioritizes internet traffic for applications, online gaming, or specified MAC addresses to minimize the impact of busy bandwidth. To access this function, navigate to QoS and enable this function, then set upload and download speed limits, and click Save.

Add Mesh Point

If you want to expand your existing TCL Mesh network range, you can purchase an additional mesh node. For how to add a new node to the TCL Mesh network, navigate to Add Mesh Point, then follow the on-screen instructions.

Fast Roaming

With this function enabled, you can enjoy an uninterrupted internet experience when moving around your home.

Capacity-oriented Mode

Enable this function when more than 30 client devices connect to the TCL Mesh network at the same time.

Smart Assistant

With this function enabled, the current mobile device will connect to the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network for 30 minutes. You can then discover and configure smart devices that only support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network at your home.

Port Forwarding

This function enables external users to access FTP and other service within the LAN.

UPnP

Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a set of networking protocols. With this function enabled, the mesh node will automatically open ports for UPnP-compliant applications, e.g. P2P applications and gaming softwares. The user will, therefore, enjoy a smoother internet experience when using these applications.

DHCP Server

This function allows you to configure the IP addresses assigned to the client devices in the TCL Mesh network.

DNS

If you can access a website through its IP address, but cannot access it through its domain name, you may configure the DNS settings to solve this problem.

Date & Time

Select a time zone in this option. To make the most out of your mesh node, keep the system time correct.

Firmware Upgrade

Perform firmware upgrades when they are available. Do not power off your mesh nodes during the upgrade process.

Maintenance Schedule

With this function enabled, the mesh node will reboot automatically at the scheduled time. When the Delay Reboot option is selected, the mesh node will delay rebooting when it is exchanging data with client devices at a speed of over 3 KB/s.

About App Version

The app version is displayed in this option. You can tap the option to see whether the current version is the latest one.

Appendix A. Important safety information

Read all the safety information before using your product. Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in injury, or damage to your product or other property.

Important safety instructions

• Observe signs and notices that prohibit or restrict the use of wireless devices.
• Always handle your device with care. It contains sensitive electronic components inside. The device can be damaged if dropped, burned, punctured, or crushed, or if it comes in contact with liquid.
• To prevent liquid damage on your device, avoid submerging it in water.
• Do not disassemble or attempt to repair your device yourself. Disassembling the device may damage it, or cause injury to you.
• The device and its accessories may present a choking hazard to small children. Do not let children use the device and its accessories without supervision.

Medical device interference

Your router contains components which may interfere with medical devices such as pacemakers, defibrillators, or other medical devices. Maintain a safe distance of separation between your medical device and your router. Consult your physician and medical device manufacturer for information specific to your medical device.

Power adapter

Use only the supplied power adapter or adapters that are compliant with the applicable international and regional safety standards. Using other adapters could cause damage to the device or pose a risk of injury or death. It is important to keep the power adapter in a well-ventilated area when the power adapter is plugged into an electrical outlet. Don't use damaged power adapters.

Operating temperature

Your device is designed to work best in ambient temperatures between 0°C and 40°C (32°F and 104°F), and should be stored between ambient temperatures of -40°C and 70°C (-40°F and 158°F). Your device may malfunction if operated or stored outside of these temperature ranges. Avoid exposing the device to dramatic changes in temperature or humidity.

Appendix B. Regulatory compliance information

This section introduces regulatory information, certification, and compliance information specific to your product.

Electromagnetic fields (EMF)

This product complies with all applicable standards and regulations regarding exposure to electromagnetic fields.

FCC compliance statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.

This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC ID: 2ACCJB123

A FCC logo is displayed.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This transmitter must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Declaration of conformity

TCL Communication Ltd. declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 2014/53/EU. You can find the Declaration of Conformity on www.tcl.com.

Disposal and recycling information

At TCL, we continually strive to improve our operations and products, and minimize our impact on the environment.

Your product is designed and manufactured with high quality materials and components, which can be recycled and reused. Please observe the local regulations regarding the disposal of packaging materials, exhausted batteries and old equipment. For recycling information, please visit www.tcl.com.

A recycling symbol is displayed.

This symbol on your device and/or its accessories indicates that this device should not be disposed of with household waste. When this device reaches its end of life, take it to a collection point designated by local authorities. For more detailed information about device recycling, contact your local authorities, household waste disposal centers, or retail stores.

The separate collection and recycling of your device and/or its accessories at the time of disposal will help conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

The disposal of this device is subject to the European Directive 2012/19/EU.

Appendix C. Troubleshooting

If you encounter problems while using the product, use the troubleshooting information to help determine the problem and find possible solutions.