TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router User Guide

June 3, 2024
TCL

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USER MANUAL
V1.0 | HH512VTCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station
RouterTCL logo 2

Read this first

  • Before using this documentation and the device it supports, ensures you read and understand the “Important safety information” on page 16.
  • 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. We make constant improvements to 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 the accuracy of the contents, but all statements, information, and recommendations in this documentation do not constitute a warranty of any kind,  express or implied.

Chapter 1. Meet your CPE

This TCL 5G CPE provides wired and wireless access for multiple computers and mobile devices. With various features and functions, the CPE is a perfect hub of your home or business network.

1.1 System requirements
Your CPE is compatible with Wi-Fi-enabled devices which support 2.4 GHz (802.11b/g/n/ax) or 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac/ax). It also works with these browsers, for example, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Opera, and Google Chrome.

1.2 Overview

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 1

1. 5G network indicator

| •  Solid blue: the signal is good.
•  Solid yellow: the signal is weak.
•  Off: the 5G network is not working.
---|---

2. 4G network indicator

| •  Solid blue: the signal is good.
•  Solid yellow: the signal is weak.
•  Off: the 4G network is not working.

3. Wi-Fi/WPS indicator

| •  Blinking blue: WPS connection is available.
•  Solid blue: Wi-Fi is enabled.
•  Off: Wi-Fi is disabled.
4. Power indicator| •  Solid blue: the device is on.
•  Blinking blue: the device is performing firmware update via FOTA.
•  Off: the device is off.
---|---
5. Power button| •  Press for 3 seconds to power off your device.
•  Press for 1 second to power on your device.
6. WPS button| Press the button for 3 seconds to enable the WPS function. The WPS function will be automatically disabled if a WPS connection is not established within 2 minutes.
7. WAN/LAN port| Used to connect to an internet source or wired devices such as computers or switches.
8. LAN port| Used to connect to wired devices such as computers or switches.
9. Telephone port| Connect a telephone to make or answer calls.
10. Power connector| Used to connect to the power adapter.

NOTE
When the CPE downloads and installs software updates, you will see the power indicator flashes in blinking blue. Do not power off your CPE during this process as it may cause device malfunction.

1. Micro USB port It is intended for debugging use only.
2. Nano SIM card slot Insert a nano SIM card in the slot.
3. Reset button Use a paperclip to press the button for 3 seconds to reset

the device.

Chapter 2. Get started with your CPE

This chapter introduces the basic instructions on how to get your CPE up and running. The instructions may vary depending on your CPE model.

2.1 Insert a SIM card
PREREQUISITE: Select the right size of SIM card for your CPE.

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 3

Locate the SIM card slot and insert a SIM card as illustrated below. Close the SIM card slot cover after inserting the card in the CPE.

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 4

NOTES

  • Note the orientation of the SIM card. If the SIM card is inserted incorrectly, it may get jammed.
  • Do not remove the SIM card when your CPE is in use. Otherwise, it may cause malfunction to your CPE or data loss of your SIM card.

2.2 Identify an ideal location
Identify an ideal location for your 5G CPE. To make the most of your CPE, make sure the location meets the following criteria:

  • Near a window
  • A cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from objects such as walls and electrical appliances
  • Near a power outlet
  • On a sturdy and flat surface

2.3 Access CPE network
You can connect your devices to the CPE network wired or wirelessly as illustrated below.

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 5

Access wired network
To establish a wired network connection, connect the wired device to the LAN port of your CPE using an Ethernet cable.
Access wireless network
To establish a wireless network connection, select the Wi-Fi name (or the SSID) of the CPE on your wireless devices, and enter the Wi-Fi password.

NOTE
The Wi-Fi name and the Wi-Fi password can be found on the bottom label of your CPE.

If your wireless device is WPS-enabled, you can also access the CPE 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 CPE for 3 seconds.
  2. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within 2 minutes to make a WPS connection.

Option 2: Web UI

  1. Log in to the web user interface (UI) of your CPE, and go to Settings > Wi-Fi > WPS. (For how to log in to the web UI, see “Chapter 3. Access the web UI” on page 6.)
  2. Click Start WPS.
  3. Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within 2 minutes to make a WPS connection.

2.4 Use the telephone function
Your CPE supports the telephone function. Connect a telephone to your CPE using a telephone cable as illustrated below.

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 6

Chapter 3. Access the web UI

This chapter introduces how to get access to the web UI of your CPE, 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 CPE 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 bottom label of your CPE.

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 7

NOTES

  • Click Language at the upper right of the screen to change the language setting.
  • Click Help at the upper right of the screen to access the user manual.

3.2 Explore web UI features
The web UI is mainly comprised of the following sections: Home, Status, Services, Settings, and System. Click on each section to display more information about your CPE.
Commonly-used status icons are displayed in the web UI, which give you information about your CPE.

Status icon What it means
It is the network your CPE connects to. No Service will be displayed when

there is no network available.
| The number of the signal bar indicates the signal strength. The more signal bars it shows, the stronger the signal is.
| VoLTE is enabled.
| VoLTE is disabled.
| The CPE connects to the WAN network.
| The CPE disconnects from the WAN network.
| New messages or unread messages.
| The SMS inbox is full.
| Wi-Fi is enabled.
| Wi-Fi is disabled.
| Click to log out of the web UI.

Chapter 4. Configure your CPE

In this chapter, we will show you how to get the most out of your CPE using the web UI. With the web UI, you can configure Wi-Fi settings, view connected devices, set up a guest network, and more.

4.1 Home
This section allows you to quickly check connection status, network information, device information, and connected devices.
Network Overview
The network overview panel shows the network connection status, download and upload speed, and the number of connected devices.
Click Disconnect to disconnect your CPE from the WAN network.
Click Connect to connect your CPE to the WAN network.

TCL LINKHUB 5CT 5G Home Station Router - fig 8

Network
The Network panel displays the network name, network type, and network connection status.
Click Network to access the internet setting page.
Device information
The Device information panel shows device model, software version, and running time.
Click Device information to get more information on your device.
Connected devices
The Connected devices panel displays the number of devices connected to your CPE network wired and wirelessly.
Click Connected devices to get more detailed information on the connected devices.

4.2 Status
This section allows you to view your network information, connection status, device information, and more.

Status
You can have a quick check on your device information, such as cellular network, LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, and diagnostics.
Connected devices
This tab allows you to edit the connected device name, and manage internet access for connected devices.

4.3 Services
Navigate to Services, and click the SMS tab to display the information you want or change SMS settings as desired.
Refer to the following table for the description of each folder under the SMS tab.

Inbox Incoming messages are stored in this folder.
Outbox Outgoing messages are stored in this folder.
New message Write a new message in this folder.
SMS settings Configure SMS settings in this folder.

Refer to the following table for commonly used operations of SMS messages.

Read a message Click the message you want to read.
Send a message 1. Click SMS > New message.

2. Input the recipient’s number and message content.
3. Click Send.
NOTE: A message can be sent to up to five recipients simultaneously.
Reply to a message| 1. Click the message you want to reply to.
2. Click Reply.
3. Input the message content, then click Send.
Delete a message| 1.  Locate the message you want to delete in the Inbox or Outbox folder.
2.  Tick the checkbox beside the message you want to delete.
3. Click Delete.
Delete all messages| 1.  Click at the top of the checkbox column to select all messages.
2. Click Delete.
Forward all messages| 1. Click SMS settings.
2. Enable SMS forwarding to mobile phone.
3. Input the recipient’s number.
4. Click Apply.
Enable SMS delivery reports| Click SMS settings, then enable SMS report.
Disable SMS delivery reports| Click SMS settings, then disable SMS report.

4.4 Settings
This section allows you to prioritize the network connection, configure connection mode, manage WAN, LAN, and Wi-Fi settings, and more.
Quick setup
In this tab, you can configure basic connection settings, enable or disable data roaming, enable or disable 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, change SSID and Wi-Fi passwords, and more.
Setup
Network connection
In this option, you can configure and manage connection mode, mobile data, and data roaming.
Profile management
In this option, 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, APN, and IP type) 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 as default.

Network settings
You can set the network search mode to Auto or Manual, and change the network mode. Make sure you click Apply after making desired changes.
Wi-Fi
Basic
Configure basic Wi-Fi settings in this option.

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 CPE network.
Security| The available security modes include Disable, WPA2, WPA/WPA2, WPA2/WPA3, WPA3.
Encryption| The available options include AES and Auto.
Password| Check the Wi-Fi password in this item.

Advanced
Configure advanced Wi-Fi settings in this option.

Max. connected devices| You can decide how many client devices can connect to your CPE network at a time.
---|---
Wi-Fi mode| The mode is set to 802.11ax by default.
AP isolation| The AP isolation function enables you to create a separate virtual network for each wireless client that is connected to your CPE network. When this function is enabled, all wireless devices in the network will not be able to communicate with each other.
Channel bandwidth| Select the available options from the drop-down menu.
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 CPE will select the best channel automatically.

Guest network
In this tab, you can enable or disable the Guest network feature, and configure the guest network Wi-Fi name, Wi-Fi password, and validity duration. Devices connected to the guest network can access the internet, but cannot access the CPE web UI or the master network.

WPS
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a wireless network security standard that tries to make connections between your CPE and wireless devices faster and easier. If your wireless device is WPS-supported, you can access the CPE Wi-Fi network through a WPS connection. Select one of the following options to make a WPS connection.

Option 1| 1.   Press the WPS button on your CPE for 3 seconds.
2.   Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within 2 minutes to make a WPS connection.
---|---
Option 2| 1.   Log in to the web UI of your CPE, and go to Settings > Wi-Fi > WPS. (For how to log in to the web UI, see “Chapter 3. Access the web UI” on page 6.)
2.   Click Start WPS.
3.   Enable the WPS function of your wireless device within 2 minutes to make a WPS connection.

Security
SIM PIN management

Enable SIM PIN| 1. When the SIM PIN feature is disabled, click.
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, click.
2. Enter the current SIM PIN code.
3. Click Apply.
** Change SIM PIN| 1.   When the SIM PIN feature is enabled, click Change SIM PIN.
2.   Enter the original SIM PIN code and confirm the new SIM PIN code.
3.   Click Apply.
NOTE:** When the SIM PIN code is entered incorrectly 3 times, a PUK code is required. You can obtain the PUK code by calling customer services on 150 using your SIM card.

Advanced settings
WAN(Basic)
Set up the WAN connection mode and modify related parameters under this option. You can set the connection mode to DHCP, PPPoE or Static IP.

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.
---|---
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 network service provider, and click Apply.
Static IP| Access the internet using a fixed IP address, subnet mask, gateway IP address, and Primary DNS server. This information should be provided by your network service provider.

WAN (MAC clone)
When the MAC clone function is enabled, multiple client devices can connect to the CPE and access the internet. Your current MAC address is displayed in this option. Click Reset to set a new MAC address. Click Clone to copy your host MAC address.

LAN
The default gateway address is 192.168.1.1, and the default subnet mask is 255.255.255.0. With the DHCP server function enabled, IP addresses will be assigned automatically to client devices in the network. If the DHCP server function is disabled, the CPE will not assign IP addresses to the connected client devices. The IP address must be entered on each client device.

Bandwidth Control
This feature allows you to view information about online devices, and set upload limits or download limits for devices if needed.

IP filter
By default, any device connected to your CPE network is allowed to access the internet. Specify which device cannot access the internet by adding the device to the blacklist.
MAC filter
By default, any device connected to your CPE network is allowed to access the internet. You can specify which device can or cannot access the internet by adding the device to the blacklist or whitelist.

Disable All connected devices can access the internet.
Whitelist Only devices with a MAC address in this list can access the

internet.
Blacklist| Devices with a MAC address in this list cannot access the internet.

DDNS
A WAN IP address is needed when some functions of your CPE are enabled. If the WAN IP address of your CPE changes, these functions may not work properly.
The Dynamic Domain Name Server (DDNS) function allows you to map a dynamic WAN IP address (public IP address) to a static domain name, helping internet users (WAN side) access the CPE network by the static domain name.

DMZ
If external users cannot access certain network services within the LAN, you can enable the DMZ function and set a new host IP address.
UPnP
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a set of networking protocols that allows connected devices to discover each other and establish functional network services for data sharing,
communications, and entertainment.
VPN
A virtual Private Network (VPN) is a dedicated network across the shared or public network (usually the internet). The VPN technology allows employees at a branch of an enterprise and employees at the headquarters to exchange resources conveniently without exposing these resources to other internet users.
Port Forwarding
This function enables external users to access FTP and other services within the LAN.
Parental control
Set an internet access schedule for the client devices on the CPE network, and define which websites the client devices can and cannot visit. To manage parental control, click Set, then set the internet access schedule and specify the website blacklist.

4.5 System
In this section, you can quickly view the device information, reboot or reset your device, modify the login password, and more.

Device information
You can view device information in this tab, including IMEI, software version, and MAC address.
Login Password
Enter your current password, and set a new one. The new password must be 4 to 16 characters long.
System time
Manage the time zone in this tab.
TR-069
It is a protocol for communication between CPE and an Auto Configuration Server (ACS) that provides secure auto-configuration as well as other CPE management functions within a common framework.
Backup & restore
This feature allows you to back up the current device configuration, or restore the device to a previous configuration by importing the backup configuration file.
Restart & reset
This function enables you to restart or factory rest the CPE.
If the CPE does not work properly, you can try restarting the CPE to solve the problem. If you can’t access the internet for unknown reasons, or forget the login password, you can restore the CPE to factory settings. To reset the CPE, you can also use a paperclip to press the reset button on the CPE for 3 seconds.

Firmware update
Click Check for update, and the CPE will detect the software version. 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.

Important safety information

Read all the safety information before using your product. Failure to follow this safety instruction 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.
  • 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 that 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 45°C (32°F and 113°F), and should be stored between ambient temperatures of –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.

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.

European Union (EU) compliance
Hereby, TCL Communication Ltd. declares that the radio equipment type TCL HH512V is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 2014/53/EU. You can find the Declaration of Conformity 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.

**** 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.

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.

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 to the web UI, then go to

Settings > Wi-Fi > Basic, and find the current Wi-Fi password.
•  Or use a paperclip to press the reset 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 > Basic.
The network indicator is off.| When the SIM card or network service is not available, or the device is not registered to the network, the network indicator is off.
•  If you are using a SIM card, make sure the SIM card is valid and inserted correctly, or place the CPE in an area with a better signal (for example near a window), and try again.
•  If you are using an Ethernet connection, check if the network is working properly.
I can’t find the Wi-Fi name of the CPE on my wireless device.| •  Make sure the Wi-Fi indicator of your CPE 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 > Security > SIM PIN management.
3. Enable PIN operation, and enter a new PIN code.
4.  Click Apply.
Where can I find the device’s model number and firmware version?| 1. Log in to the web UI.
2. Go to System > Device information.

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 bottom label of the CPE.
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 CPE is powered on.
•  Check whether the device is connected to the CPE network properly.
---|---
How do I change the login password?| 1.   Log in to the web UI.
2.   Go to System > Login password.
“No SIM card” or “Invalid SIM card” is displayed on the web UI.| •  Make sure there is a SIM card in your CPE.
•  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 CPE, and reinsert 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 CPE in an area with a better signal (for example near a window), and try again.
•  Reboot your CPE, and try again.
•  If the MAC filter function is enabled, make sure your device’s MAC address is on the whitelist.
** How can I access the CPE network wirelessly?| Select the Wi-Fi name (or the SSID) of the CPE on your wireless devices, and enter the Wi-Fi password.
NOTE: The default Wi-Fi name and the Wi-Fi password can be found on the bottom label of your CPE.
**
“PIN lock” or “PUK lock” is displayed on the screen of the device connected to the CPE 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.

References

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