TCL LINKZONE MW42 User manual

USER MANUAL
V1.0 | MW42V

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Contents
Read this first ....................................................................................................................... iii
Chapter 1. Meet your LINKZONE......................................................................................... 1
1.1 System requirements ..................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Overview ........................................................................................................................ 1
Chapter 2. Get started ......................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Install a SIM card and the battery .................................................................................. 3
2.2 Power on your LINKZONE............................................................................................. 4
2.3 Access LINKZONE network ........................................................................................... 5
Chapter 3. Access the web UI ............................................................................................. 6
3.1 Log in to the web UI ...................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Explore web UI features................................................................................................. 6
Chapter 4. Configure your LINKZONE................................................................................ 8
4.1 Connection..................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Usage ............................................................................................................................ 8
4.3 SMS ............................................................................................................................... 8
4.4 Settings .......................................................................................................................... 9
4.5 More............................................................................................................................. 11
Important safety information.............................................................................................. 13
Important safety instructions .............................................................................................. 13
Medical device interference ............................................................................................... 13
Power adapter .................................................................................................................... 13
Battery................................................................................................................................. 13
Operating temperature........................................................................................................ 14
Regulatory compliance information .................................................................................. 15
Electromagnetic fields (EMF).............................................................................................. 15
Regulatory compliance ...................................................................................................... 15
Disposal and recycling information ..................................................................................... 15
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................. 16

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Read this first
• Before using this documentation and the device it supports, ensure you read and
understand the "Important safety information" on page 13.
• 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 features are not available in all countries or regions. Feature availability is subject
to change.
• Documentation content is subject to change without notice. We make 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.

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Chapter 1. Meet your LINKZONE
This TCL LINKZONE is a 4G LTE mobile router, providing download speeds of up to
150 Mbps. Your LINKZONE lets you create fast and secure Wi‑Fi in any location with cellular
network coverage.
1.1 System requirements
Your LINKZONE supports up to 15 connected devices with 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi network (802.11b/
g/n). It also works with these browsers, for example Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Opera,
and Google Chrome.
1.2 Overview
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34 5
1. Signal LED
• Solid blue: the device is connected to network.
• Solid red: the device is registered but not connected to
the network.
• Blinking red: SIM card or network service is not available.
2. Battery LED
• Solid blue: the device is fully charged.
NOTE The LED flashes quickly in blinking blue when the
device is charging.
• Blinking blue: the LED flashes slowly in blinking blue
when the battery level is sufficient.
• Solid red: the battery level is low.

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3. Power button
• Press for 3 seconds to power on or off your device.
• Press to wake up or turn off the LEDs.
• Press for 10 seconds to reboot your device.
4. WPS button
Press for 3 seconds to enable the Wi‑Fi Protected Setup
(WPS) function. The WPS function will be automatically
disabled if a WPS connection is not established within 2
minutes.
5. Micro USB port Used to connect to a power supply (5 V/1 A) through the
provided USB cable.
Factory reset
Simultaneously press the power button and WPS button for 3 seconds to factory
reset your LINKZONE.
NOTES
• When the LINKZONE downloads and installs software updates, you will see the
LEDs flash on and off in a sequence. Do not power off your LINKZONE during
this process as it may cause device malfunction.
• Power Saving Mode: If you do not use the LINKZONE buttons for 30 seconds,
all LEDs, except the battery LED, will automatically turn off.

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Chapter 2. Get started
This chapter introduces the basic instructions on how to get your LINKZONE up and running.
The instructions may vary depending on your LINKZONE model.
2.1 Install a SIM card and the battery
To install a SIM card and the battery, follow these steps:
1. Remove the back cover.
2. Install a SIM card.
NOTE Heed the orientation of the SIM card.
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3
4
5
Micro-SIM (3FF)

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3. Install the battery.
4. Install the back cover.
2.2 Power on your LINKZONE
To power on your LINKZONE, press the power button for 3 seconds, and the LEDs will flash
in solid blue.
3s

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2.3 Access LINKZONE network
You can connect your devices to the LINKZONE network wirelessly. To establish a wireless
network connection, select the Wi‑Fi name (or the SSID) of the LINKZONE on your wireless
devices, and enter the Wi‑Fi password.
NOTE
Find the default Wi‑Fi name and password on the label inside your LINKZONE.
If your wireless device is WPS‑enabled, you can also access the LINKZONE Wi‑Fi network
through a WPS connection. Select one of the following options to make a WPS connection.
Option 1: WPS button
1. Press the WPS button on your LINKZONE for 3 seconds.
2. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within 2 minutes to make a WPS
connection.
Option 2: PBC
1. Log in to the web user interface (UI) of your LINKZONE, and go to More > WPS > PBC.
(For how to log in to the web UI, see "Chapter 3. Access the web UI" on page 6.)
2. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within 2 minutes to make a WPS
connection.
Option 3: WPS PIN code
1. Log in to the web UI of your LINKZONE, and go to More > WPS > WPS PIN. (For how
to log in to the web UI, see "Chapter 3. Access the web UI" on page 6.)
2. Set a WPS PIN code, and click Apply.
3. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device, and enter the WPS PIN code within 2
minutes to make a WPS connection.

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Chapter 3. Access the web UI
This chapter introduces how to get access to the web UI of your LINKZONE, and gives you a
glimpse of the web UI.
3.1 Log in to the web UI
To log in to the web UI, follow these steps:
1. Open a web browser on the device connected to the LINKZONE network.
2. Go to http://192.168.1.1, then follow the on‑screen instructions to finish the login
process. For the default login information, refer to the label inside your LINKZONE.
NOTES
• Click Help at the upper right of the screen to access user manual.
• Click on the TCL logo to visit the official website of TCL.
3.2 Explore web UI features
The home page of the web UI is mainly comprised of the following tiles: Connection, Usage,
SMS, Settings, and More. Click on each tile to display more information.
Commonly‑used status icons are displayed in the web UI, which give you information about
your LINKZONE.
Status icon What it means
Click to return to the home page.

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Status icon What it means
or It is the network type your router connects to.
The number of the signal bar indicates the signal strength. The more
signal bars it shows, the stronger the signal is.
It indicates whether the Wi‑Fi function is on or off.
It indicates whether your router is connected to the cellular network or
not.
It indicates the battery level of your router.

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Chapter 4. Configure your LINKZONE
In this chapter, we will show you how to get the most out of your LINKZONE using the web
UI. With the web UI, you can configure Wi‑Fi settings, view connected devices, manage SMS
settings, and more.
4.1 Connection
This panel allows you to quickly check connection status, data usage, battery level, and the
number of connected devices. Besides, you can disconnect or connect your LINKZONE from
or to the cellular network.
Regarding connected devices, click Connected to get more detailed information on the
connected devices. In the details page, you can edit the names of connected devices, and
manage internet access for connected devices.
4.2 Usage
The Usage panel displays an estimate of your data usage and how long you have accessed
the LINKZONE network.
Move the cursor over the more icon at the upper right corner to access more features,
such as Usage Settings and Clear History.
Usage Settings
In this feature, you can set your billing day, monthly data plan, time limit, etc. Click Save after
making those changes.
Clear History
Use this feature to clear all your data usage and other statistics.
4.3 SMS
Refer to the following table for commonly used operations of SMS messages.
Read a message Click the message to expand it.
Send a message
1. Click +New Message.
2. Input the recipient's number and message content.
3. Click .
NOTE A message can be sent to up to three recipients
simultaneously.

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Reply to a message 1. Click the message you want to reply to.
2. Input the message content, then click .
Delete a message 1. Locate the message you want to delete.
2. Click .
Delete all messages
1. Move the cursor over the more icon at the upper right
corner.
2. Click Delete All.
3. Click OK.
Forward a message
1. Click the message you want to forward.
2. Click .
3. Input the message content, then click .
Configure SMS settings
1. Move the cursor over the more icon at the upper right
corner.
2. Click SMS Settings.
3. Configure Save Mode and SMS Report as desired.
4. Click Save after making those changes.
4.4 Settings
This section allows you to configure connection mode, manage Wi‑Fi settings, set up profiles,
and more.
Wi-Fi Settings
Configure Wi‑Fi settings as desired.
Wi-Fi Select On to enable Wi‑Fi function, and Off to disable Wi‑Fi function.
Country Select country or region in this item.
SSID SSID is the name of the Wi‑Fi network.
SSID Broadcast
This function is enabled by default.
When this function is disabled, other users cannot detect the SSID or
the Wi‑Fi name. They need to manually enter SSID to connect to your
LINKZONE network.
Wi-Fi Security Different security modes provide different levels of data protection
and network access control.
Cipher Type The available encryption methods include TKIP, AES and Auto.
Key Check the Wi‑Fi password by ticking Show Password.
802.11 Mode The mode is set to 802.11b/g/n by default.

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Wi-Fi Channel
Different regions use different channels: Channel 1‑11 in FCC (US)/IC
(Canada), Channel 1‑13 in ETSI (Europe), and Channel 1‑13 in MKK
(Japan). When the channel option is set to Auto, the LINKZONE will
select the best channel automatically.
Max. Number of
Users
You can decide how many client devices can connect to your
LINKZONE network at a time.
AP isolation
The AP isolation function enables you to create a separate virtual
network for each wireless client that is connected to your LINKZONE
network. When this function is enabled, all wireless devices in the
network are isolated from each other. This provides additional security
if some connected devices are unknown or not completely trusted.
Login Settings
Set a new login password on this tab. The new password must be 4 to 16 characters long.
Profile Management
On this tab, you can set up a new APN profile, and edit or delete existing profiles.
Add a new profile
1. Click New.
2. Input the correct parameters (like profile name and APN) for
your network operator.
3. Click Save.
Edit a profile
1. Select the profile from the profile management list.
2. Click Edit to set the parameters.
3. Click Save.
Delete a profile
1. Select the profile from the profile management list.
2. Click Delete.
NOTE The default profile cannot be deleted.
Set as default 1. Select the profile from the profile management list.
2. Click Set Default.
PIN Code Settings
Enable SIM PIN
1. When the SIM PIN feature is disabled, select Enable in
the PIN Code Operation option.
2. Set a SIM PIN code that is 4 to 8 digits long.
3. Click Apply.
Disable SIM PIN
1. When the SIM PIN feature is enabled, select Disable in
the PIN Code Operation option.
2. Enter the current SIM PIN code.
3. Click Apply.

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NOTE
When the SIM PIN code is entered incorrectly 3 times, a PUK code is required.
You can obtain the PUK code from your internet service provider.
Connection Mode
Configure whether your LINKZONE is connected to network automatically or manually.
Network Mode
Configure network selection method, and change the network mode.
Make sure you click Apply after making desired changes.
Advanced Settings
Check the IP address, and manage DHCP and MAC settings on this tab.
With DHCP Server enabled, the IP addresses you have defined will be assigned to the
connected devices automatically.
Regarding MAC Filter feature, you can specify which device can or cannot access the
internet.
About
Check more device information (e.g. software version, device name, and IMEI), and perform
other basic settings on this tab.
Reboot
If the LINKZONE does not work properly, you can try restarting the
LINKZONE to solve the problem.
NOTE To restart the LINKZONE, you can also press the power
button for 10 seconds.
Reset
If you can't access the internet for unknown reasons, or forget the
login password, you can factory reset the LINKZONE.
NOTE To reset the LINKZONE, you can also simultaneously press
the power button and WPS button for 3 seconds.
Backup Click to download the current configuration file to your local device.
Restore Restore the device to a previous configuration by importing the
backup configuration file.
4.5 More
Make a WPS connection, and check for firmware update in this panel.

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WPS
WPS is a wireless network security standard that tries to make connections between your
LINKZONE and wireless devices faster and easier.
If your wireless device is WPS‑supported, you can access the LINKZONE Wi‑Fi network
through a WPS connection. Select one of the following options to make a WPS connection.
Option 1: WPS button
1. Press the WPS button on your LINKZONE for 3
seconds.
2. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within
2 minutes to make a WPS connection.
Option 2: PBC
1. Log in to the web UI of your LINKZONE, and go to
More > WPS > PBC. (For how to log in to the web UI,
see "Chapter 3. Access the web UI" on page 6.)
2. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within
2 minutes to make a WPS connection.
Option 3: WPS PIN code
1. Log in to the web UI of your LINKZONE, and go to
More > WPS > WPS PIN. (For how to log in to the web
UI, see "Chapter 3. Access the web UI" on page 6.)
2. Set a WPS PIN code, and click Apply.
3. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device, and
enter the WPS PIN code within 2 minutes to make a
WPS connection.
Online Update
If a new version is available, you can click Update to upgrade the software.
Do not power off the device during the upgrade process. Otherwise, it may be
damaged.

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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
• Do not use the device in areas where wireless devices are prohibited.
• Do not let children use the device and its accessories without supervision.
• Always handle your device with care, and keep it in a clean and dust‑free place.
• Do not attempt to repair the device yourself.
• Do not drop, throw, or bend your device.
• Do not dispose of the device and its accessories in a fire.
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
Charge your device with the supplied USB cable. Only charge with an adapter that is
compliant with the applicable international and regional safety standards. The adapter shall
be CE‑approved. Using other adapters could cause damage to the device or pose a risk of
injury or death. Keep the adapter in a well‑ventilated area when it is plugged into an electrical
outlet. Don’t use damaged power adapters.
Battery
CAUTION Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used
batteries according to the instructions.
In accordance with air regulations, the battery of your product is not fully charged. Please
charge it first.
• Do not attempt to open the battery (due to the risk of toxic fumes and burns).
• Do not puncture, disassemble, or short circuit the battery.
• The battery must be recycled or disposed of separately from household waste. Dispose of
batteries according to your local environmental laws and guidelines.
• Replace the battery only with another qualified battery. Use of an unqualified battery may
present a risk of fire, explosion, leakage, or other hazard.

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• Do not use damaged battery.
Operating temperature
Your device is designed to work best in ambient temperatures between 0 °C and 45 °C (32 °F
and 113 °F), and should be stored in ambient temperatures between –10 °C and 70 °C (14 °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.

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Regulatory compliance information
This section introduces regulatory information, certification, and compliance information
specific to your product.
Electromagnetic elds (EMF)
This product complies with all applicable standards and regulations regarding exposure to
electromagnetic fields.
Regulatory compliance
Hereby, TCL Communication Ltd. declares that the radio
equipment type TCL MW42V is in compliance with the essential
requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 2014/53/
EU. The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available
at: https://www.tcl.com/global/en/service‑support‑mobile/eu‑doc.
html
Hereby, TCL Communication Ltd. declares that the radio
equipment type TCL MW42V is in compliance with the Radio
Equipment Regulations 2017. The full text of the UK declaration
of conformity is available at: https://www.tcl.com/global/en/
service‑support‑mobile/eu‑doc.html
Disposal and recycling information
At TCL, we continually strive to improve our operations and products, and minimize our
impact on the environment.
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.

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Troubleshooting
If you encounter problems while using the product, use the troubleshooting information to
help determine the problem and find possible solutions.
General problems
Problem Solution
I forget the Wi‑Fi password.
• Log in the web UI, then go to Settings > Wi‑Fi
Settings > Show Password, and find the current
Wi‑Fi password.
• Or you can also simultaneously press the power
button and WPS button for 3 seconds to factory
reset the device.
How do I change the Wi‑Fi name
and password?
1. Log in to the web UI.
2. Go to Settings > Wi‑Fi Settings.
I can't find the Wi‑Fi name on my
wireless device.
• Make sure the signal LED is solid blue.
• Refresh the available network list on your wireless
device.
How do I set a new PIN code for my
SIM card?
1. Log in to the web UI.
2. Go to Settings > PIN Code Settings.
3. Enable PIN Code Operation, and enter a new PIN
code.
4. Click Apply.
Where can I find the device name
and firmware version?
1. Log in to the web UI.
2. Go to Settings > About.
Web UI problems
Problem Solution
How can I access the web UI?
1. Open the web browser, and go to http://192.168.1.1.
2. Enter the login information as required. Find the
default login information on the label inside your
LINKZONE.
I can’t log in to the web UI.
• Make sure 192.168.1.1 is entered correctly in the
web browser.
• Make sure the LINKZONE is powered on.
• Check whether the device is connected to the
LINKZONE network properly.

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How do I change the login
password?
1. Log in to the web UI.
2. Go to Settings > Login Settings.
"No SIM card" or "Invalid SIM card"
is displayed on the web UI.
• Make sure there is a SIM card in your LINKZONE.
• Reinstall the SIM card, and log in to the web UI
again.
NOTE Power off your device before removing the
SIM card.
Connection problems
Problem Solution
I can't access the internet.
• If no SIM card is detected, power off your
LINKZONE, and reinstall the SIM card, then try
again.
• If a PIN code is required, enter the PIN code, and try
again.
• If no network is available, place the LINKZONE in an
area with better signal (for example near a window),
and try again.
• Reboot your LINKZONE by pressing the power
button for 10 seconds, and try again.
• If the MAC filter function is enabled, make sure your
device MAC address is not blocked in the MAC filter
settings.
How can I connect to the
LINKZONE network?
Select the Wi‑Fi name (or the SSID) of the LINKZONE
on your wireless devices, and enter the Wi‑Fi
password.
NOTE Find the default Wi‑Fi name and password on
the label inside your LINKZONE.
"PIN lock" or "PUK lock" is
displayed on the screen of the
device connected to the LINKZONE
network.
This indicates that the SIM card is locked.
To unlock the SIM card, log in to the web UI and enter
the PIN code or PUK code. To obtain the PUK code,
contact your internet service provider.
NOTE If the PIN code is entered incorrectly 3 times,
you will be required to enter the PUK code. If the PUK
code is entered incorrectly 10 times, the SIM card will
be locked permanently.