TP-LINK MR3420: Needs Restart every couple of hours!!

[Charlie.]

Yesterday, I bought a TP-LINK MR3420 router for my Cell C woosh speedstick. Initially, it appeared to be working just fine - the 3G was faster than it was through the PC, the wireless was great and the LAN was better and all was well.

I have noticed a HUGE problem, though - it completely ceases to respond after a few hours and needs to be restarted EVERY couple of hours!

By "ceases to respond", I mean:
1. The wireless network goes down - can't be detected via InSSIDer on any of my devices.
2. The LAN goes down - DHCP doesn't serve IP addresses even.
3. Computers on the LAN that already have IPs can't use it as a router to get to the internet or browse to the administration pages.

The modem is a ZTE MF668 HSPA+ USB Dongle. The router has stock firmware which is dated "110418" and appears to be the latest available from the TP-link site.

Please HELP! I thought I'd bought both a bargain and a great product but it's really failing.

[ajax]

Never had that problem. What model modem are you plugging in to the router?

Try the June firmware (http://www.tp-link.com/de/support/download.asp?a=1&m=TL-MR3420).

[Charlie.]

The modem is a ZTE MF668 HSPA+ USB Dongle.

[Base122]

Had the same problem with my MR3420 and a Cell C ZTE MF190 modem.

Router would just freeze at random intervals. "SYS" indicator on front panel would either be frozen in the on or off state, but not flashing normally. Only way to fix, was to unplug power and restart.

Worst of all the router was at a remote site and I had a 20min drive to go and reset it. Very annoying. Pity they don't have some "watchdog" reboot function, which detects the router has locked up and initiates a self reboot.

Try the 110617 firmware as Ajax suggested. Seems to have solved my problem.

[Gnome]

Pity they don't have some "watchdog" reboot function, which detects the router has locked up and initiates a self reboot.

Only enterprise routers and servers offer that kind of functionality so it isn't surprising they don't have it. But you can do something very similar for very low cost if you really need it. I do it at home, my one router is wired VIA a relay which is controlled by another computer that has Nagios (http://www.nagios.org/) installed. As soon as Nagios reports a failure it turns the router on and off, it happens very rarely tho.

Also if you know the router only freezes every 24 hours you can have a remote computer run a script that restarts the router every 12 hours.

[Base122]

Also if you know the router only freezes every 24 hours you can have a remote computer run a script that restarts the router every 12 hours.

The site only has a CCTV recorder and the router, with no computer unfortunately.

Before the June firmware seemed to have resolved the problem, I was seriously considering one of those mains power timer switches which I would have set to switch off and then on again somewhere in the middle of the night, or even more than once a day.
Probably would have been the cheapest solution.

Another idea was one of these SMS controller devices so that I could send an SMS to switch a relay on and off to reset the power.
All just adds to the cost.

Can't see why they could not just implement a simple "watchdog" countdown timer on the CPU reset line, that is "refreshed" by the firmware. So firmware lockup = no refresh = reset. Maybe it was a cost issue.

[Meteor]

Dont think it's the router that is the issue.

what setting do you have your 3G settings on,

connect automatically,
On demand, or
manual

The 3g modem will swtich off after a couple of hours of non use if 'on demand', and it takes a while for it to re-connect. usually does not.

could be the issue ?

[Base122]

Dont think it's the router that is the issue.

what setting do you have your 3G settings on,

connect automatically,
On demand, or
manual

The 3g modem will swtich off after a couple of hours of non use if 'on demand', and it takes a while for it to re-connect. usually does not.

could be the issue ?

Can't speak for Charlie. but mine is set for "connect automatically", so is always supposed to remain connected.

Definitely was the router, as the front panel SYS indicator stops flashing, which says to me the firmware is not running anymore.

Router could not be "pinged" or its Web Management page opened.

[Jola]

I have had the same problems with my MR3420, with all versions of the software.

I have tried different modems, but this is not a modem problem, it is the wifi that goes haywire.

TP-Link need to provide stable software for this router, otherwise it is useless.

I am actually looking around for something else.

[elf_lord_ZC5]

I have had the same problems with my MR3420, with all versions of the software.

I have tried different modems, but this is not a modem problem, it is the wifi that goes haywire.

TP-Link need to provide stable software for this router, otherwise it is useless.

I am actually looking around for something else.

Toss'es coin, do I buy one, or don't I .... , do, don't, don't, do, ..... I not sure :(

[Jola]

Toss'es coin, do I buy one, or don't I .... , do, don't, don't, do, ..... I not sure :(

It's difficult, there is no obvious great alternative - every modem that I can think of has some problem.

Thinking about the Netgear routers, they are more stable, but they also don't support the latest modems and they cost a lot more.

Actually, the MR3420 is a great router, they just need to sort the software out - but they seem either unwilling or unable to do so.

[OGroteKoning]

For the time being, I am back to my Intellinet 300n 3G. It has a max speed of 7.2Mbps, but its stable and the service from the supplier is great. I found out today that the 3G doesn.t have connect on demand, but that to me is a nonIssue.

[OGroteKoning]

And I agree with Jola regarding the stability of the TP-Link. I hope they will bring out formware that is stable.

[Base122]

I must just add that I have also had this firmware crashing/freezing problem on the MR3220 model as well.

I wonder if this problem has actually been reported to TP-Link?

I find it very difficult in this case to prepare a meaningful error report, as this is a very difficult problem to replicate and describe, other than "router locks up and needs power cycle reset".

It happens randomly and there does not seem to be any pattern to it. Seems to happen with a variety of modems and firmware versions as mentioned by others.

I have also seen the MR3220 work fine for a few days, then fail with the status page showing "identifying" for the modem and nothing more. This does not make sense, as the modem was correctly identified in the first place and had worked fine for several days. A reboot generally sorts this out till the next time.

[ajax]

I have only ethernet connections to my router and it doesn't freeze up. A friend of mine uses the wireless and it does freeze up every day or 2. So if you can use ethernet in the interim it "should" take care of the problem until they release a bug fix.

EDIT: Just want to add that my wireless radio is disabled on my router.

[Base122]

I have only ethernet connections to my router and it doesn't freeze up. A friend of mine uses the wireless and it does freeze up every day or 2. So if you can use ethernet in the interim it "should" take care of the problem until they release a bug fix.

EDIT: Just want to add that my wireless radio is disabled on my router.

Now that you mention the issue with wireless, I remember reporting a problem to TP-Link regarding the 1043ND router over a year and a half ago. This had to do with the plug-in USB device network sharing service failing to start when the wireless channel selection was set to "auto". If it was set to a specific channel, the service would automatically restart normally.

They managed to replicate the problem in their lab at the time and it turned out to be that when the wireless channel setting was set to auto, the router would take longer to start up (checking for best wireless channel) and somehow the network sharing service would fail to start. Some timeout maybe?

Anyhow that was sorted out in the following firmware release.

I'm wondering now if this issue of either using auto or a fixed channel in the wireless settings is impacting on the identifying or operation of the plug-in USB modem and maybe randomly confusing the router, resulting in a freeze up?

ajax, maybe you can take a look at this and see if choosing a fixed wireless channel as opposed to auto has any bearing on this problem? I'll do the same my side. Anyone else willing to experiment with this, please share your findings.

[Jola]

They managed to replicate the problem in their lab at the time and it turned out to be that when the wireless channel setting was set to auto, the router would take longer to start up (checking for best wireless channel) and somehow the network sharing service would fail to start. Some timeout maybe?

I actually started suspecting this before you even posted and am busy testing this at the moment - I am now fixed to N, but this is a little inconvenient as I still have one or two G devices. Depending on how the tests go I may have to set up a separate G Access Point.

Another option is to disable wifi on the MR3420 completely, I have a Belkin 600N router that I can use for wifi.

[Charlie.]

I have my wireless channel set explicitly to channel 6 and the problem persists. (Also, since I require wireless and bought this router specifically because it had wireless, I am NOT about to turn off the wireless radio and string cables.)

In the last few days, the problem seems to have changed to issues specifically regarding 3G connectivity - that is, the router still responds and can be pinged but the 3G connection dies.

The 3G lite on the router stays on but the light on the modem stops flashing - I think indicating that there is no connection.

This problem even persists AFTER a power-cycle.

I am very nearly ready to take this router back to the suppliers and demand a refund because, frankly, it's junk.

To those of you about to make a purchasing decision, I say this: DO NOT BUY THIS ROUTER. Perhaps, one day, they'll fix the firmware or the hardware or whatever the fook is causing these issues and the whole of MyBB will report that the MR3420 is brilliant. Until that day, it's a paper-weight.

[Jola]

To those of you about to make a purchasing decision, I say this: DO NOT BUY THIS ROUTER. Perhaps, one day, they'll fix the firmware or the hardware or whatever the fook is causing these issues and the whole of MyBB will report that the MR3420 is brilliant. Until that day, it's a paper-weight.

I have to agree with the above, this router is not stable with any of the recent firmware revisions.

And TP-Link are not coming to the party with support for this device !

[Base122]

The 3G lite on the router stays on but the light on the modem stops flashing - I think indicating that there is no connection.

When this happens, are you able to get to the router status page?
Does the 3G status show "identifying" only or does it correctly identify your modem and then only shows "connecting" (but never does)?

[jouda]

I am also having endless issues with the wifi on this router. It seems very unstable.

I am going to try and install open-wrt. If I brick it then too bad.

[Charlie.]

Turns out, I bought mine on the 4th so, if I can get out there with it, I can return the router for a refund to DBG.co.za. I am going to do just that.

Question: what should I replace it with?
EDIT: And where do I get that from?

[ajax]

A friend of mine uses the wireless and it does freeze up every day or 2.

I just want to correct my previous post. This friend of mine's issues were with his K4505 modem and not the wireless connection. And I say "were" because since changing to the E367 he has had very little issues at all.

I also now quickly asked most of my friends with this router:
Friend A: MR3420 and K3770 on Vodacom - no issues including the wireless (running the April firmware but with added bin file)
Friend B: MR3420 and E367 on Cell C - no issues including the wireless (running the June firmware)
Friend C: MR3220 and E1820 on Cell C - no issues including the wireless (running the June firmware)
Friend D: MR3220 and E367 on Cell C - no issues including the wireless (running the June firmware)

I have advised them all to use wireless B&G only and not wireless n as some of their devices don't support n yet. Some are on auto channel selection, some manual.

[Jola]

I have gone back to the April firmware now, and am using E372 and E367 modems.

It was unstable on bgn, have now selected only n.

Stable so far, only a few hours, will report back on progress.

[dillinger]

At home I use a MR3220 with a K3765 (8TA) uptime 14 days, at work its a MR3220 with a K3770 (8TA) uptime is in the region of 14 days as well, no problems of any sort.

[Jola]

I have gone back to the April firmware now, and am using E372 and E367 modems.

It was unstable on bgn, have now selected only n.

Stable so far, only a few hours, will report back on progress.

Hmmm, still not good.

I have now disabled wifi completely on the MR-3420, and have a connected a second router (Belkin N600), that has been set up to only act as a wifi Access Point.

So far so good ...

[Jola]

Just can't get this router to be stable, without new firmware it is just a POS !

[Base122]

Had a problem with an MR3220 (firmware 110617) and K3765 modem (Vodacom) yesterday. (modem not connecting)

Typically, had to be out at one of my CCTV test sites, so I had to drive out there to investigate.

Router status page showed some modem "PIN error", which is nonsense, as the router and modem had been working fine for several days prior to this. Rebooted router without making any changes and now working OK again. (till the next time!)

I have serious doubts regarding the stability and reliability of both the MR3420 and MR3220, especially in an unmanned remote site application.

I have 2xMR3420 and 2xMR3220 installed at test sites at the moment.
Yes, the cost is attractive, but is it worth the frustration in the long term?

I'm seriously going to consider installing mains power timer switches with one or two off-on power cycle periods per day, just as a "failsafe" in case of further problems. Not ideal and should not really be necessary if these routers were more stable.

[Jola]

I have ordered an Asus RT-N13U B1, I have had enough of this MR3420.

Hopefully it is more stable, also Asus seems to be better than the others WRT modem support, it supports the E367 and E372.

[Base122]

Had another MR3220 (firmware 110617) + K3765 modem (Vodacom) fail yesterday.

Modem light was on solid showing connected (apparently)
Unable to ping host's dynamically registered dns address.

Router wireless was working.
Status page showed 3G connection stuck on "connecting", even though modem was correctly identified and displayed.

This particular router had been fine for a good three weeks (at least) prior to this.
Power cycle reboot and all ok again. (but for how long?)

[jouda]

I have ordered an Asus RT-N13U B1, I have had enough of this MR3420.

Hopefully it is more stable, also Asus seems to be better than the others WRT modem support, it supports the E367 and E372.

So did you get it? Working well?

[sajunky]

The top scores for many months gets Asus RT-N56U, if you can afford it.

[shovenose]

Flash the router with OpenWRT firmware
http://wiki.openwrt.org/toh/tp-link/tl-mr3420

[chrisc4290]

Have you asked TP-Link for an answer? I use a MR-3220 and was concerned that the download speed via the router was slower than when the modem was connected directly to the PC. I got a series of answers in under 24 hours which I found very good and helpful

[TheBBCZone]

Hi Crhisc4290,

How did you contact TP-Link? Thnx in advance!

[Base122]

Had a problem with an MR3220 (firmware 110617) and K3765 modem (Vodacom) yesterday. (modem not connecting)

So this same MR3220 that gave me the PIN problem on the 12th, crashed again.
Total lockup. SYS indicator on solid. Router Web Management page not accessible via WiFi or Ethernet port.

This time the modem was connected (Vodacom) and I was able to ping the registered dynamic dns host name.

Really regretting having spent money on these 3G routers, but I guess you get what you pay for.
Going to try an earlier firmware version again, but not holding out much hope of that making a difference.

[chrisc4290]

Hi Crhisc4290,

How did you contact TP-Link? Thnx in advance!

Send an email to: support@tp-link.com

Specify

Router model and version, serial number
OS on computer
Describe the fault or problem as succinctly as you can

You can also look at: http://www.tp-link.com/us/about/?categoryid=107

[ajax]

The ("missing") June firmware is giving me problems. Every day at least once with my E1820 I get "unknow pin status" error and the 3G connection is unconnected. Sometimes have to reboot a couple of times. Strange that they pulled the June firmware from the English version site (..../en) but not from the German version site (.../de). I'm now going back to the April firmware.

[shovenose]

Are you running Torrents

[sajunky]

The ("missing") June firmware is giving me problems. Every day at least once with my E1820 I get "unknow pin status" error and the 3G connection is unconnected.
This error message indicates that router is reseting the modem, but modem is hanging after reset. Otherwise it wouldn't make request for pin status (it needs to do only once).

[shovenose]

A router will reboot once it runs out of ram that happens when there's too many simultaneous connections normally which it can't handle so it will have a nervous break down and reboot.

[ajax]

The ("missing") June firmware is giving me problems. Every day at least once with my E1820 I get "unknow pin status" error and the 3G connection is unconnected. Sometimes have to reboot a couple of times. Strange that they pulled the June firmware from the English version site (..../en) but not from the German version site (.../de). I'm now going back to the April firmware.

It gets weirder - I went back to the "Apri"l firmware but couldn't connect, as in the router shows it is connected to the internet but I can't get any data to flow, not even pings. I went back to "June" and everything was fine again. Then back to "April", no internet, back to June, everything's fine again. So test repeated to be sure. Maybe I just need to do a hard reset and start over. I've done several firmware uploads in the last year already.
When I feel up to getting in my roof again /sigh

[Base122]

Getting really tired of these MR3220 and MR3420 "lock ups"

Sent a mail to support@dbg.co.za, requesting this gets taken up with TP-LINK support.
Will PM Kernel as well.

Will share their response.

Copy here:


RE: MR3220 and MR3420 problem

Good Day,

I am having endless problems with both these models.
I have purchased 2 of each so far.

I am having an issue where the router simply locks up or freezes for no apparent reason.
The SYS indicator either remains off or solid on without flashing anymore.
The router ceases to operate and the management web page is not accessible via Wireless or Ethernet.

The only way to resolve this is a power cycle reboot.
After this there is no log file information available to assist either.

I have tried various combinations of firmware:
110125
110418
110617

and the following modems:
Huawei E220, E167, E367, E372, K3765
ZTE MF-190

With Cell C, Vodacom and 8ta

All the routers invariably experience this lock up problem at some point or another.
There is no pattern or sequence to this and it appears completely random.

This make these units extremely unreliable for remotely located or unmanned sites as I have had to drive out to power reset these units several times.

My query is:
Is there not a watchdog reboot function that can be enabled in these routers that will allow them to reset themselves if a firmware lock up occurs.
Perhaps a firmware option or an internal hardware link maybe?

I am very disappointed in the reliability of these units so far and it seems I am not alone.

Refer to this discussion:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/370386

Please take this matter up with TP-Link support.

Thanks.

[shovenose]

This is that routers compatibility list
http://www.tp-link.com.au/common/subject/3g-router/compatible/list/?siteid=5

Don't see the 1820 modem there. Unless its rebranded.

You can update the routers modem compatibility by downloading the bin file.
Here's the bins files
http://www.tp-link.com/en/support/3g/

How to use it
http://www.tp-link.com/common/getResource/?type=3g&resource=How+to+Use+the+Modem+Bin+File%2Epdf

Routers firmware page
http://www.tp-link.com/en/support/download/?model=TL%2DMR3420

[Base122]

Got some feedback from Kernel....
As suspected, these routers do not have hardware watchdog reset functionality.
I guess one would have to pay for Enterprise class units for that.
Pity. Surely wouldn't have added that much to the unit cost.

DBG have raised the possibility that this "lock up" problem may be a hardware issue.
The problem is that it can take days, if not weeks to show up, making this problem very difficult to diagnose.

Sending the router back for testing may not really yield any positive outcome.
There are just too many combinations of firmware and different modems out there and the symptoms and frequency of the problem may vary.

It just so happens that the most problematic MR3220 I have, failed again on Sunday night, 6 November.

The following was found when I visited the site:

Site: Suburb1
TP-LINK Router model: MR3220
Hardware version (sticker under unit): V1.2
Firmware: 110418
3G Modem: ZTE-MF190
Service Provider: 8ta
APN: internet

Wireless transmitting SSID: YES
Able to make Wireless connection: YES
Able to ping Router IP via Wireless: YES
Able to connect to Router Management Web Page (Wireless Client): NO

Able to ping router IP via Ethernet: YES
Able to connect to Router Management Web Page (Ethernet Client): NO

Indicators:
SYS (flashing normally 1 second intervals?) : NO (ON Solid)
WLAN: Flashing rapidly (normal)
PWR: ON
3G: ON

Internet Connection:
Outbound traffic: NO
Inbound (for unrestricted APN's/8ta/MTN): NO

Reset history:
12 October (PIN Error - Router was not locked up, but had no internet connection)
14 October (Router not locked up but showing "connecting" on 3G status page)
25 October
7 November

In this case, the 3G modem indicator was flashing normally as if the modem was still connected to the internet, but there was no inbound or outbound traffic. I have kept the firmware the same and swapped to a Huawei E367 modem. This particular router does not seem to make two weeks without a reset. Not sure if a pattern is developing here, but will wait and see.

Others, who are having this problem, please add to this thread.
Maybe we can establish some common issue or patterns.

[shovenose]

Got some feedback from Kernel....
As suspected, these routers do not have hardware watchdog reset functionality.
I guess one would have to pay for Enterprise class units for that.
Pity. Surely wouldn't have added that much to the unit cost.

DBG have raised the possibility that this "lock up" problem may be a hardware issue.
The problem is that it can take days, if not weeks to show up, making this problem very difficult to diagnose.

Sending the router back for testing may not really yield any positive outcome.
There are just too many combinations of firmware and different modems out there and the symptoms and frequency of the problem may vary.

It just so happens that the most problematic MR3220 I have, failed again on Sunday night, 6 November.

The following was found when I visited the site:

Site: Suburb1
TP-LINK Router model: MR3220
Hardware version (sticker under unit): V1.2
Firmware: 110418
3G Modem: ZTE-MF190
Service Provider: 8ta
APN: internet

Wireless transmitting SSID: YES
Able to make Wireless connection: YES
Able to ping Router IP via Wireless: YES
Able to connect to Router Management Web Page (Wireless Client): NO

Able to ping router IP via Ethernet: YES
Able to connect to Router Management Web Page (Ethernet Client): NO

Indicators:
SYS (flashing normally 1 second intervals?) : NO (ON Solid)
WLAN: Flashing rapidly (normal)
PWR: ON
3G: ON

Internet Connection:
Outbound traffic: NO
Inbound (for unrestricted APN's/8ta/MTN): NO

Reset history:
12 October (PIN Error - Router was not locked up, but had no internet connection)
14 October (Router not locked up but showing "connecting" on 3G status page)
25 October
7 November

In this case, the 3G modem indicator was flashing normally as if the modem was still connected to the internet, but there was no inbound or outbound traffic. I have kept the firmware the same and swapped to a Huawei E367 modem. This particular router does not seem to make two weeks without a reset. Not sure if a pattern is developing here, but will wait and see.

Others, who are having this problem, please add to this thread.
Maybe we can establish some common issue or patterns.
go to this forum
http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com

Those guys do thorough benchmarking on routers. Theyre the only site I have seen on the net that does it. Post your problem there with info you have like error msg etc the router has given you. They will help you quickly as they know every nick and trick about these routers. They will be able to tell you if its busted or not.

They also have a good router charts that you can check out as well as reviews they have done.
http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/lanwan/router-charts/view

[Base122]

go to this forum
http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com

Those guys do thorough benchmarking on routers. Theyre the only site I have seen on the net that does it. Post your problem there with info you have like error msg etc the router has given you. They will help you quickly as they know every nick and trick about these routers. They will be able to tell you if its busted or not.

They also have a good router charts that you can check out as well as reviews they have done.
http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/lanwan/router-charts/view

Thanks for the tip.
Will check it out.

[Base122]

Just had my MR3420 come up with a DNS problem.

The 3G connection (Cell C) was dropped and reconnected for some reason and now it has DNS Server: 10.11.12.13 , 10.11.12.14

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12365&d=1320777508

According to this settings screen no DNS servers have been specified.
No tick in box and entries greyed out.

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12367&d=1320777510

Now why would it suddenly use these 10.x addresses?
Obviously now it cannot register its dynamic DNS host name, as it cannot resolve "no-ip.org" to do so.
Bet if I reboot it will work again.....:twisted:

[jouda]

Getting really tired of these MR3220 and MR3420 "lock ups"

Sent a mail to support@dbg.co.za, requesting this gets taken up with TP-LINK support.
Will PM Kernel as well.

Will share their response.

Copy here:


RE: MR3220 and MR3420 problem

Good Day,

I am having endless problems with both these models.
I have purchased 2 of each so far.

I am having an issue where the router simply locks up or freezes for no apparent reason.
The SYS indicator either remains off or solid on without flashing anymore.
The router ceases to operate and the management web page is not accessible via Wireless or Ethernet.

The only way to resolve this is a power cycle reboot.
After this there is no log file information available to assist either.

I have tried various combinations of firmware:
110125
110418
110617

and the following modems:
Huawei E220, E167, E367, E372, K3765
ZTE MF-190

With Cell C, Vodacom and 8ta

All the routers invariably experience this lock up problem at some point or another.
There is no pattern or sequence to this and it appears completely random.

This make these units extremely unreliable for remotely located or unmanned sites as I have had to drive out to power reset these units several times.

My query is:
Is there not a watchdog reboot function that can be enabled in these routers that will allow them to reset themselves if a firmware lock up occurs.
Perhaps a firmware option or an internal hardware link maybe?

I am very disappointed in the reliability of these units so far and it seems I am not alone.

Refer to this discussion:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/370386

Please take this matter up with TP-Link support.

Thanks.

I also had issues with my mr668 and my tp-link mr 3420. I contacted tp-link and after weeks and various emails they came back to me saying that the cell c zte mr668 is not supported. Wonder what they will say about your list of modems.

[Base122]

Well guess what?
This MR3420 just locked up a few minutes after my previous post.
Pretty much the same situation as the MR3220 problem.
Could not access the Web Management Interface page and no connection to the internet.

Did I just witness an event that may be leading up to these lock ups?
Do these "invalid" assigned 10.x DNS addresses cause the routers Dynamic DNS feature to "hammer away" at trying to connect to the specified Dynamic DNS service provider (will never resolve the service provider host name) , eventually causing the router to "hang"????
.
.
.
Oh and after a reboot, everything is just "peachy" again...for now anyway....
DNS Server: 41.50.20.61 , 41.50.20.29
Back to normal for Cell C.

[Base122]

Well, well, well, this gets even better....

I think I am on to something here with this DNS thing.

What I did was to intentionally force the DNS servers setting this time as follows:
3G Settings screen:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12369&d=1320783604

and with the Dynamic DNS feature switched on as follows: (don't think the details make a difference, provider name will never be resolved anyway)

Dynamic DNS (DDNS) screen:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12371&d=1320783605

Dynamic DNS remains on "connecting", as it cannot resolve the service provider name.
It then just keeps on trying.

3G Modem connected:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12373&d=1320784449


....and then just over 30 minutes later.....router SYS indicator freezes and the "lock up" problem is evident.
Only way out is a power cycle reset.

Busy testing this again to see if it is repeatable.

Would really appreciate if someone else could try the same scenario and see if their MR3420 or MR3220 Locks up.
Using firmware 110418, but I suspect this will happen on other versions of firmware as well.

Edit: 22h50
Yip...32 minutes later, after the 3G modem has connected...and the router status screen shows:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12375&d=1320785307

Router is locked up again and needs a power cycle reset.

Hopefully this will be confirmed as a bug (and is not just my MR3420) and can now be fixed.

As to the reasons why the DNS servers settings are randomly falling back to a default (10.x?)and not those provided by the Cellular service provider when the 3G connection is made, is one for the support engineers.

Will try this on the 110617 firmware next.
Will do the same on the MR3220 tomorrow night.

Edit: 23h33
Repeated and failed again on 110617 firmware as well.

[shovenose]

Well, well, well, this gets even better....

I think I am on to something here with this DNS thing.

What I did was to intentionally force the DNS servers setting this time as follows:
3G Settings screen:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12369&d=1320783604

and with the Dynamic DNS feature switched on as follows: (don't think the details make a difference, provider name will never be resolved anyway)

Dynamic DNS (DDNS) screen:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12371&d=1320783605

Dynamic DNS remains on "connecting", as it cannot resolve the service provider name.
It then just keeps on trying.

3G Modem connected:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12373&d=1320784449


....and then just over 30 minutes later.....router SYS indicator freezes and the "lock up" problem is evident.
Only way out is a power cycle reset.

Busy testing this again to see if it is repeatable.

Would really appreciate if someone else could try the same scenario and see if their MR3420 or MR3220 Locks up.
Using firmware 110418, but I suspect this will happen on other versions of firmware as well.

Edit: 22h50
Yip...32 minutes later, after the 3G modem has connected...and the router status screen shows:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12375&d=1320785307

Router is locked up again and needs a power cycle reset.

Hopefully this will be confirmed as a bug (and is not just my MR3420) and can now be fixed.

As to the reasons why the DNS servers settings are randomly falling back to a default (10.x?)and not those provided by the Cellular service provider when the 3G connection is made, is one for the support engineers.

Will try this on the 110617 firmware next.
Will do the same on the MR3220 tomorrow night.

Edit: 23h33
Repeated and failed again on 110617 firmware as well.

change the settings in your router to always use Google's DNS service 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
Then see if it works

[ginggs]

As to the reasons why the DNS servers settings are randomly falling back to a default (10.x?)and not those provided by the Cellular service provider when the 3G connection is made, is one for the support engineers.
It could be that Cell-C did not provide the correct information when the PPP session was initiated.

Still, the router should not crash under these conditions, so TP-Link need to look into this.

[Base122]

change the settings in your router to always use Google's DNS service 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
Then see if it works

Good idea here from shovenose. :)
This seems to be a workaround to this problem, as the router's Dynamic DNS feature should be able to contact and update the Dynamic DNS service provider, regardless of the 3G connection DNS addresses provided by the Cellular ISP or not, as sometimes seems to be the case.

Maybe we can get TP-Link to code these Google DNS servers into their firmware as a default fallback instead of the 10.x ones.

Will try this on the problematic MR3220 later today.

This particular lock up problem has probably gone largely unnoticed, as most users do not normally use the router's Dynamic DNS feature, unless they need inbound connectivity to a specific registered host name.

Although, even in a simple 3G sharing setup, missing or incorrect internet connection DNS addresses, would probably result in websites being unable to load, as host names would not be resolved correctly. I guess most people who encounter this problem, either unplug and plug in the 3G modem again, or just reboot the router and move on.

[Base122]

Managed to repeat the lock up problem on the MR3220 as well.
Pretty much the same story as the MR3420.
Have specified the Google DNS servers in the 3G settings.
Hopefully I will not see this particular lock up problem on this router again!!
Time will tell.......

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12385&d=1320877684

[limnos]

I added the same Google DNS settings tonight as well. Using the E372 modem. Let me know what you run into to...

[Jola]

Interesting, I am not at home right now, but will also play with the DNS settings asap.

[avillegof]

Amazing. I purchased an MR3240 last summer for remote usage using dyndns and I am experiencing exactly the same problem with same symptoms. Last hang was today. I will try the google DNS workaround... and pray. Will let you know how it goes.

A.

[sajunky]

Maybe we can get TP-Link to code these Google DNS servers into their firmware as a default fallback instead of the 10.x ones.
It will have the same effect as manual DNS setting. Still it doesn't prevent memory leak or stack overflow problem which seems to cause SYS indicator lockout.

[Base122]

It will have the same effect as manual DNS setting. Still it doesn't prevent memory leak or stack overflow problem which seems to cause SYS indicator lockout.

Agreed.
The root cause needs to be identified and fixed by TP-LINK.

Hopefully Uniterm Direct will be able to replicate this problem and take it up with TP-LINK as soon as possible.

In the meantime, the Google DNS address workaround will have to do.

Kernel?

[kernel]

Hi Guys

We'll do some testing and try to replicate these problems, we'll then be in contact with TP-LINK and see if we can get this remedied.

[limnos]

So... What router do you guys recommend I get? Can't sit & wait for TP-LINK to wake up and release new firmware.

[Base122]

So... What router do you guys recommend I get? Can't sit & wait for TP-LINK to wake up and release new firmware.

Before you give up completely on the TP-LINK...

Have you tried plugging the 3G modem directly in to your laptop or PC and check the download speeds with something like speedtest.net?

Is there a significant difference using it with the router in a 3G sharing setup?

Is your laptop/PC connecting to the router via wireless or Ethernet cable?

What 3G signal strength do you get at your location?
Are you sure you are on 3G and not 2G?

[kernel]

TP-LINK support may be slow to respond if the queries are coming direct from end users, we have direct channels with TP-LINK support and are currently looking into the lock up issue. If you guys have issues, send an email to support@dbg.co.za and we'll work with you and TP-LINK to ensure the problems are addressed and rectified.

TP-LINK is a good brand but no manufacturer can get it 100% right all the time, whats important though is that the problems are resolved ultimately and we'll ensure this happens.

[kernel]

We've received a firmware version from TP-LINK that addresses the DNS error, you can download it here (http://www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up(110426)_DNS)

Base122, do you maybe want to give it a test and let us know how it goes? We'll also test it in-house.

[wagnerw]

We've received a firmware version from TP-LINK that addresses the DNS error, you can download it here (http://www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up(110426)_DNS)

Base122, do you maybe want to give it a test and let us know how it goes? We'll also test it in-house.

Its a RAr file, right? It seens to be currupted.

tks

[ajax]

Probably a bin file that you can just upload directly, but not sure.

[Base122]

We've received a firmware version from TP-LINK that addresses the DNS error, you can download it here (http://www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up(110426)_DNS)

Base122, do you maybe want to give it a test and let us know how it goes? We'll also test it in-house.

After upgrading the firmware with the file provided, the router status screen still shows
Firmware Version: 3.12.8 Build 110418 Rel.43954n

Doesn't look any different to the existing 110418 firmware identification string.
Maybe they forgot to change the identification string to 110426?

I'm not sure if this "DNS fix" firmware version is actually loaded and running.

It would be better if TP-LINK could change the firmware version identification string to 110426, so that we can be sure we are using the right firmware.

Will test with it anyway.


Kernel, did you actually manage to replicate the lock up on your test router?
In fact, has anyone else managed to replicate and repeat this lock up problem?

Edit: 00:32
Same problem. Router Lock up just over 30 mins after 3G modem connects.

3G settings DNS servers intentionally set to 10.11.12.13 and 10.11.12.14, causing Dynamic DNS feature to fail to update my no-ip host name.

Will restore router to factory default and see if this problem still occurs, with as few non default settings as possible. Hopefully it is not a combination of the many different settings I have.

[ginggs]

See Debian bug #445711 (http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=445711) and Red Hat bug #467004 (https://bugzilla.redhat.com/show_bug.cgi?id=467004). Sounds like the pppd in Linux sometimes picks up the WINS server addresses reported by the PPP connection (10.11.12.13 and 10.11.12.14) and incorrectly uses them as the DNS server addresses. It was fixed some time ago.

[Jola]

But clearly not in the TP-Link firmware !

[avillegof]

With the google dns workaround I still have the problem (well, except that now sys led is always off instead of always on). Given the comments here I'm not sure it is worth to try the new kernel...

Btw, another hint: my dyndns account is periodically blocked "for abuse" with this router. Looks like 3g connection is not too stable.

If the manufacturer does not solve this i'll have to give up and configure my plugcomputer to do the work. I just thought using off the shelf device would be easier, but now I'm beginning to change my mind..

[limnos]

Hi Base122

If i connect the modem directly into the lap top i have no issues.

Websites load instantly, YouTube videos run instantly and don't time out.

Often, what I need to do is Turn my Wifi off and then put it back on in order to get a connection again. The router locks up and I cannot even connect to the web interface. This is extremely frustrating. I sometimes need to wait up to 3 minutes for a website just to start loading. I have 48% signal. When plugged into laptop i literally don't have any issues.

Here's a speed test with the modem connected straight into laptop.

http://www.speedtest.net/result/1589820421.png


Before you give up completely on the TP-LINK...

Have you tried plugging the 3G modem directly in to your laptop or PC and check the download speeds with something like speedtest.net?

Is there a significant difference using it with the router in a 3G sharing setup?

Is your laptop/PC connecting to the router via wireless or Ethernet cable?

What 3G signal strength do you get at your location?
Are you sure you are on 3G and not 2G?

[Base122]

Hi Base122

If i connect the modem directly into the lap top i have no issues.

Websites load instantly, YouTube videos run instantly and don't time out.

Often, what I need to do is Turn my Wifi off and then put it back on in order to get a connection again. The router locks up and I cannot even connect to the web interface. This is extremely frustrating. I sometimes need to wait up to 3 minutes for a website just to start loading. I have 48% signal. When plugged into laptop i literally don't have any issues.

Here's a speed test with the modem connected straight into laptop.


Sounds like your problem is on the WiFi between the laptop and router if I read this correctly?
Have you tried using the 3G modem in the router as normal and then connecting your laptop to the router with an Ethernet cable?

This will help to narrow down if the WiFi is the problem or not.

You may want to try and drop the WiFi speed down from 300Mbps or change from 11n to 11bg and see if that makes a difference to the WiFi connection stability.

You could also try and used a fixed WiFi channel rather than "Auto".
Maybe try lower Vs. higher channel numbers.

[shovenose]

now Im confuzzled? I posted some fixes where is my post?

[shovenose]

plug in the zte modem, -> open command prompt-> type in the command u want as below -> enter.
AT+ZCDRUN=8 Disable cd

then your ZTE MF190 can use in tp link router after disable the auto run..

AT commands
Command Description
ATI Returns modem information
AT+COPS=? Returns the list of operators present in the network
AT+ZCDRUN=8 Disable cd (flashdrive) autorun
AT+ZCDRUN=9 Enable cd (flashdrive) autorun
AT+ZBANDI=0 Automatic band selection (default)
AT+ZBANDI=1 UMTS 850 + GSM 900/1800
AT+ZBANDI=2 UMTS 2100 + GSM 900/1800 (Europe)
AT+ZBANDI=3 UMTS 850/2100 + GSM 900/1800
AT+ZBANDI=4 UMTS 850/1900 + GSM 850/1900
AT+ZBANDI? Report band selection mode
AT+ZSNT=0,0,0 AUTOMATIC network selection, GSM+WCDMA
AT+ZSNT=0,0,1 AUTOMATIC network selection, GSM+WCDMA,GSM preferred
AT+ZSNT=0,0,2 AUTOMATIC network selection, GSM+WCDMA,WCDMA preferred
AT+ZSNT=1,0,0 AUTOMATIC network selection, GSM only
AT+ZSNT=2,0,0 AUTOMATIC network selection, WCDMA only
AT+ZSNT? Returns network selection mode

Also make sure you set it to UMTS 900 only. If its 900/2100 capable modem it will drop the connection randomly

[Jola]

Sounds like your problem is on the WiFi between the laptop and router if I read this correctly?
Have you tried using the 3G modem in the router as normal and then connecting your laptop to the router with an Ethernet cable?

This will help to narrow down if the WiFi is the problem or not.

You may want to try and drop the WiFi speed down from 300Mbps or change from 11n to 11bg and see if that makes a difference to the WiFi connection stability.

You could also try and used a fixed WiFi channel rather than "Auto".
Maybe try lower Vs. higher channel numbers.

I tried all of those, made no difference.

[Base122]

See Debian bug #445711 (http://bugs.debian.org/cgi-bin/bugreport.cgi?bug=445711) and Red Hat bug #467004 (https://bugzilla.redhat.com/show_bug.cgi?id=467004). Sounds like the pppd in Linux sometimes picks up the WINS server addresses reported by the PPP connection (10.11.12.13 and 10.11.12.14) and incorrectly uses them as the DNS server addresses. It was fixed some time ago.


Interesting to see this in the MR3420 log:


111 Nov 13 21:28:19 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Req]
110 Nov 13 21:28:18 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0]
109 Nov 13 21:28:18 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14]
108 Nov 13 21:28:17 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0]
107 Nov 13 21:28:17 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14]
106 Nov 13 21:28:16 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0]

[Base122]

For info.....
Following mail sent to support@dbg.co.za, along with attached config file:


I have attached the config file for my MR3420 (v1.2) router.

I tested this with the standard 110418 firmware build.
Used a Huawei E367 3G modem with a Cell C SIM on the standard "internet" APN.

I have intentionally input bogus DNS servers (121.13.56.72 and 121.13.56.73) in the 3G settings, to simulate bad, missing, or incorrectly input by user, DNS server information.

Same problem occurs if the 10.11.12.13 and 10.11.12.14 entries are input or used by the router as a default somehow..

DDNS (No-IP) remains on "connecting".
Just over 30mins after the 3G modem connects, the router "hangs".
SYS stops flashing and the status page (which was left open) shows "open filesys error!"

Router then requires a power cycle reset.

Also tried the suggested firmware with the DNS fix.
http://www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up(110426)_DNS

Not sure if this actually running, as the firmware identification string is exactly the same as the standard 110418 build.

Either way, this make no difference and the router "hangs" in the same way after just over 30mins.

Please check and confirm this problem on your test MR3420 with standard 110418 firmware.
Hopefully TP-LINK support can work with the attached config file to determine and resolve this problem.

Hopefully this lock up problem can be confirmed and addressed.
Maybe the resolution of this particular issue will "fix" some other "problems" as well.

[kernel]

Hi Guys

Sorry, seems there was a problem with the file we uploaded, please try this one (www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up_110426_DNS.rar)

[limnos]

Hi Guys

Sorry, seems there was a problem with the file we uploaded, please try this one (www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up_110426_DNS.rar)

Will give this a try when I get home from work later and report back to this thread.

[coldzero]

You know what i tried the other day that seemed to work. I would get the lock out issue every night usually after 2 or 3 hours of gaming (m3420 +cellc ztemf668). I then pointed a fan at my router and ran it all day without a single freeze out. Give it a try and see if we can confirm?

[Base122]

Hi Guys

Sorry, seems there was a problem with the file we uploaded, please try this one (www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_8_up_110426_DNS.rar)

Just tried this.
MR3420 Router still "hung" 30 mins after the 3G modem connected.
Looking at it now actually with its SYS indicator solid on.
Cannot open the web management page.

Firmware identification string still showed the same as the 110418 build. Can this be?
Not sure if the fix (110426) actually loaded. The firmware file check sums are different though.

Another interesting thing is that the Ethernet switch portion of the router still seems to be working even in this "hung" state.
My desktop PC (that I am posting from at the moment) is plugged into one of the Ethernet ports.
I have a cable linking the port next to it, across to my ADSL modem.

I have an active PPPoE session established to TelkomInternet at the moment, from the desktop PC.

If I disconnect that session and try using the MR3420 as the default gateway, there is no access to the internet, even though the 3G modem indicator light shows "connected". 3G connectivity is dead.

My wireless stations are still connected and I can ping between them and my wired desktop PC, no problem.
I can establish a PPPoE session from my laptop, via wireless, through the MR3420 Ethernet connection to the ADSL modem, as well.

Looks like the web management console and 3G WAN connection on the MR3420 are dead at the moment, but the wireless and Ethernet switch are working.

[limnos]

Correct, the identification string still shows 110418 build. I flashed with kernel's latest link. I just got home now - i'll test out for 30 mins and see if issues persist.

[Base122]

I tried all of those, made no difference.

Spoke to someone who was having issues with the WiFi connection from his laptop to the MR3420.
Also, after a period of time the WiFi connection would not work anymore.

If he switched the wireless of the laptop off and on again, it would work for a while again.

He changed the wireless mode from "11bgn mixed" to "11bg mixed".
Also made sure that the Windows OS power saving setting for the wireless adapter was set to never allow the adapter to be switched off or sleep to save power.

Seems to have worked for him.

[limnos]

I'll try this too. But something like my iPad and iPhone always sleep in order to save power. Only when I unlock my iPhone does it connect to the Wifi. My setup (E372 + MR3420) has become completely unusable. I have used so many of TP LINK products with no problem - but i'm sorry the MR3420 is a terrible piece of equipment that has given me endless problems. I've landed up connecting my modem directly to my laptop and sharing the internet connection. I have arranged to borrow a Huawei B970 modem from a friend and see if this router works out.


Spoke to someone who was having issues with the WiFi connection from his laptop to the MR3420.
Also, after a period of time the WiFi connection would not work anymore.

If he switched the wireless of the laptop off and on again, it would work for a while again.

He changed the wireless mode from "11bgn mixed" to "11bg mixed".
Also made sure that the Windows OS power saving setting for the wireless adapter was set to never allow the adapter to be switched off or sleep to save power.

Seems to have worked for him.

[shovenose]

yet this bloke is using his Sony Erickson phone with it without problems
http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/2068482
http://static.lowyat.net/uploads/attach-96/post-499796-1318448180_thumb.jpg

Check out that forum its a TP-Link club

[Base122]

yet this bloke is using his Sony Erickson phone with it without problems
http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/2068482
Check out that forum its a TP-Link club
http://static.lowyat.net/uploads/attach-96/post-499796-1318448309_thumb.jpg

lol! at the strainer antenna parked between the WiFi antennas......

[limnos]

As ugly as his setup is - at least he is happy!

[Base122]

This MR3420 DNS/DDNS problem linked to the lock up problem is really getting complicated.

Using a bogus 3G DNS server address, whether 10.11.12.13 or a thumb suck address like 172.13.53.33, to make sure the 3G connection DNS is unable to resolve the DDNS service provider host name is showing some erratic results.

I am seeing differences in the degree of lock up, depending on the DDNS service provider selected.

The MR3420 allows choosing between:
www.no-ip.com
www.dyndns.org
www.comexe.cn

Using no-ip, I get the routers web console and 3G connection to hang after 30 mins.
Using dyndns and comexe, the web console hangs at 60 mins, but the 3G connection is still active!

The router log file, is showing references to comexe, even though no-ip or dyndns is selected.
I am also seeing "DDNS ERROR Authority failed" being logged even when the host name has actually been updated, when I use the normal 3G provided ISP or Google DNS addresses again.

Something is really messed up with this routers DDNS feature, under "bad" DNS conditions.
No idea why it would behave differently depending on the DDNS service provider selected.

Will collect some log information and share, along with more observations later.

[kwaggawerner]

I'm having the same problems! I have two MR3220's running the June firmware.

One uses a Huawei E367 and the other is using a ZTE K3805.

The unit that uses the ZTE seems to lock up more often, on an almost daily basis.
The unit with the E367, seems more stable, but the modem seems to disconnect more often. I kept writing the incidents off as 8ta related.

Both units have USB extension cables attached to them, as to minimize the heat issue, and as for the OS load, it's minimal, WAN is 3G only, no remote access, no WLAN, and only one port on the switch is being used, no DynDNS, Firewall on default settings. For a linux kernel, a 200Mhz processor should be overkill, yet these models have a 400 Mhz I think.

Sometimes the devices would completely lock up, as in no ping, no http. On other days name resolution will go out the door, this is more common (daily) than the complete lockups. Strangely enough, I think that the routing/gateway function itself lock-up as and not the name server, reason being, client-specified dns entries also don't seem to work.

As for the modems themselves, the received RSSI is about -59 to -65, so "excellent to very good" if using MDMA in the same position. Another peculiar problem, is that one day, the modem will do 10 MBIT downstream, and other days, at the exact same time, it would do less than 3MBIT, neither the orientation of the device/modem nor the antennae has changed. Also we live on the outskirts of the city, I'm very sure that the tower closest to me, is not that busy, as we are a farming community. I don't rely on the signal meter in the web interface of the routers, as they as always out of whack, either 0% or 100% rarely the real signal strength.

[kwaggawerner]

http://static.lowyat.net/uploads/attach-96/post-499796-1318448309_thumb.jpg

lol! at the strainer antenna parked between the WiFi antennas......

I'm liking that idea but, and I would like a 802.11/802.16 expert on the matter. Wouldn't this increase both the signal and noise exponentially, as it's un-calibrated as opposed to a grid, panel or dish? - The signals would just bounce off the radio and metal, like scattering? I've seen people foil-wrap beer boxes for more directed signal in 802.11b/g scenarios, and it worked pretty good, of course I wouldn't know how much scatter occurs and dropped packets.

Then again, if it works much like a reflector, then perhaps I can understand, meaning that the signal is not amplified by the "backyard" antenna, but only "directed", again... directing both signal, and noise?

[Globalexpress]

Hi Everyone,

On Monday I setup a MR3420 using the 8ta E367 modem. I also configured dynamic DNS using the NO-IP service. In order to replicate the test to mimic a real life scenario, I attached an IP camera which is accessible remotely. Firmware version used, 110617.

Today the system is still running with a system uptime in excess of 1 day 22 hours and 40 minutes. I provided a link showing this:

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showfull.php?photo=27837

[sajunky]

Both units have USB extension cables attached to them, as to minimize the heat issue, and
Not sure what make it worse, heat or extension cables. In my experience modems like E367 do not like even 60cm cable. Does router support USB hub? Then you can use self powered USB 2.0 hub and longer cable. If not, I use other solution with a custom filter on the USB power wires.

[SHiBBY]

Suddenly I'm very glad I didn't sell my Dlink yesterday...:wtf:

[avillegof]

Well, there seems to be enough info for easily reproducing the issue and even some quite concrete hints about its origin, so it's definitely time for the manufacturer to provide a fix. We all have purchased defective units (sw only hopefully).

[kwaggawerner]

Not sure what make it worse, heat or extension cables. In my experience modems like E367 do not like even 60cm cable. Does router support USB hub? Then you can use self powered USB 2.0 hub and longer cable. If not, I use other solution with a custom filter on the USB power wires.

I'm sure it will, as USB has 4 wires, two for power, two for data, a powered hub, only increased the power of P+ and P-, the Data lines D+ and D- are untouched. I have a hub, but it isn't powered, the other powered hub that I have, is an iPod dock, which I'm sure won't work.

Will try a source a hub and try it. But this is assuming the problems stem from insufficient power supply to the modem, I generally don't think it's the power supply, as the MR3220/MR3420 PSU supply up to 1 amp, which is more than sufficient for the modem. I think the router itself does not consume more than 400 milliamp. The modem technically doesn't consume more than 500 milliamp (default USB 2.0 output power), as the modem works in the front ports of my PC, which outputs strictly 500 millamp, the back ports do power more, they are USB 3.0 which outputs up to 900 ma per port.

I will get a pre-compiled trunk of openwrt and see if it is also giving issues.

Update: One way to check whether it is the lack of sufficient power supply, is to get a 5V PSU, most Nokia chargers are 5V, I have a couple, when I get time, I will splice a female USB cable, with the output of the charger, thereby increasing the USB supply amperage, will then test it for a couple days.

One a side note, it's been 72 hours now, and my modem hasn't disconnected once, some erratic received RSSI, but could be on account of the weather.

So either the tower disconnects the RAS session, or the modem resets somehow.

[jouda]

Well, there seems to be enough info for easily reproducing the issue and even some quite concrete hints about its origin, so it's definitely time for the manufacturer to provide a fix. We all have purchased defective units (sw only hopefully).

Well the reply I got from TP-Link when I asked them when they will be looking at supporting SA modems was that they are not planning to test or support modems from South African providers now or any time in the near future (well that's what I deducted from the broken eeeenrish in the mail)

Our only hope is Kernel and the guys from Uniterm direct. Seems like they have a good enough relationship with TP-Link.

[sajunky]

I'm sure it will, as USB has 4 wires, two for power, two for data, a powered hub, only increased the power of P+ and P-, the Data lines D+ and D- are untouched.
In most cases problem is not a continuous power, as modem do not draw continuous power. It doesn't have sufficient filtering of power lines due to the size of surface mount design and high frequency of the load. Then current pulses added to the continuous load create a variable voltage on the ground wire adding the noise to the transmission over data lines. It is why a longer cable, bigger problem.
I have no recommendation to the self-powered hub. All you can do is to try. I have one with 1A power supply, which should be sufficient to power the hub and modem. It worked well with many modems, but failed with E367. Besides, it is a poor design, as power from the hub shows-up on the uplink, while it shouldn't. It cause that hub power supply has to compete against much stronger PC power supply. Perhaps it can be a guide for chosing hub, but not everybody have a chance to check with multimeter in the shop. There are hubs on the market with 2A power supply, I would chose one.

Update: One way to check whether it is the lack of sufficient power supply, is to get a 5V PSU, most Nokia chargers are 5V, I have a couple, when I get time, I will splice a female USB cable, with the output of the charger, thereby increasing the USB supply amperage, will then test it for a couple days.
I don't recommend it, as it would compete against PC power supply and it might operate in overload condition (increased internal resistance comparing to the normal or no-load condition). But if you cut 5V USB wire to the PC, it would be fine. It is under restriction that a wire from the charger is not longer than few centimeters. Do you see a problem? :)

[Base122]

We still don't seem to be any closer to a resolution with the lock up issue, even though Uniterm and TP-LINK are working on the problem.

Had to resort to a mains power timer switch on one of my test sites, which switches the router off for 15mins at a time, four times a day as a "fail safe".

Saves driving out to reset the &*^!@ thing each time! :mad:

Thought of trying one of these:
http://www.planet.com.tw/en/support/download2.php?id=34753&file_type=3&prod_model=WNRT-617G

....only to see in the manual, it looks almost functionally identical to the TP-LINK's.

Wonder who is copying who here?
Not sure about the Tenda or Sitecom stuff either......

[lcbxx]

We still don't seem to be any closer to a resolution with the lock up issue, even though Uniterm and TP-LINK are working on the problem.

Had to resort to a mains power timer switch on one of my test sites, which switches the router off for 15mins at a time, four times a day as a "fail safe".

Saves driving out to reset the &*^!@ thing each time! :mad:

Thought of trying one of these:
http://www.planet.com.tw/en/support/download2.php?id=34753&file_type=3&prod_model=WNRT-617G

....only to see in the manual, it looks almost functionally identical to the TP-LINK's.

Wonder who is copying who here?
Not sure about the Tenda or Sitecom stuff either......
Don't know if I am reading this correctly, but are you using a TP-Link router on a commercial-based site? Given the price of the TP-Link routers/switches, I would not even consider using them for commercial purposes. Rather get something from Netgear, Nortel or, if your budget allows, Cisco.

On topic: I flashed my MR3240 with the firmware supplied by TP-Link and as an extra measure, set the connection to be 'On-Demand' rather than automatic. It has not been running for 8 days, no problems or lock-ups.

[Base122]

Don't know if I am reading this correctly, but are you using a TP-Link router on a commercial-based site? Given the price of the TP-Link routers/switches, I would not even consider using them for commercial purposes. Rather get something from Netgear, Nortel or, if your budget allows, Cisco.

On topic: I flashed my MR3240 with the firmware supplied by TP-Link and as an extra measure, set the connection to be 'On-Demand' rather than automatic. It has not been running for 8 days, no problems or lock-ups.


Domestic CCTV monitoring application at the moment, just for the home owner to be able to view their cameras on their mobile phone if an alarm is triggered for example.

You're right, a commercial site would demand a different class of router, preferably one with a built-in hardware watchdog reset.

TP-LINK, Tenda, Sitecom etc. class equipment helps keep the total solution cost down initially, but then.... :(

[wagnerw]

We still don't seem to be any closer to a resolution with the lock up issue, even though Uniterm and TP-LINK are working on the problem.

Had to resort to a mains power timer switch on one of my test sites, which switches the router off for 15mins at a time, four times a day as a "fail safe".

Saves driving out to reset the &*^!@ thing each time! :mad:

Thought of trying one of these:
http://www.planet.com.tw/en/support/download2.php?id=34753&file_type=3&prod_model=WNRT-617G

....only to see in the manual, it looks almost functionally identical to the TP-LINK's.

Wonder who is copying who here?
Not sure about the Tenda or Sitecom stuff either......


I´ve made some tests with Edimax 3g-6200n http://www.edimax.eu/en/support_detail.php?pl1_idSelect=support.php%3Fpl1_ id%3D1%26mwsp%3D1&pl1_id=1&pd_id=305&button=Go

Here, during tests It has been running for 7 days without "hangs". The router has frequent firmwares updates but I cannot (at least I coudnt find) force the dns server (sometimes ISP fails to provide a valid DNS and the router use default 10.11.12.13).

[Base122]

Tried the Australian newer version of the MR3420 firmware shown here:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/273744-Routers-to-use-with-3G-HSPA-Modems?p=7277853&viewfull=1#post7277853

Nope.
Still does not resolve the DNS/DDNS router lock up issue.
All that happened is the repeatable 30min lockup using no-ip.com, shifted from 30min to 60min.
Still no go.....

Have bought a Tenda 3G611R+ from Scoop Distribution.

It is now working at my problematic "ex TP-LINK MR3220" site. (without the mains power timer switch!)
Using a Vodafone K3765 with an 8ta SIM and no-ip DDNS.

Early days. Time will tell.
Will report back on stability of this Tenda router in my particular CCTV application.

Edit:
This Tenda router did not like the Vodafone K3765 for some reason.
Also not happy with my ZTE MF-190 either.
Now trying 8ta branded E367.
Still on 8ta SIM.

[kernel]

Hi Guys

We've received another beta version of the firmware from TP-LINK, please will you test it and let us know if it solves your issues.

Firmware is available for download from our website here (http://www.dbg.co.za/downloads/mr3420v1_en_3_12_19_up_111128_pppWINS.RAR)

[Base122]

Loaded this beta firmware on my MR3420.

Interesting situation at the moment......
Cell C's unrestricted APN DNS seems broken. (My IP 197.111.252.x)
Edit:***(in fact there is no access to the internet at all via this APN at the moment)

Cannot resolve host names or even ping Google DNS 8.8.8.8
My no-ip DDNS is sitting on "connecting" and is never going to connect under these conditions.

So....the ideal situation to see if the MR3420 will lock up?

Router also unable to contact NTP server to set time either.
Maybe this also has something to do with the problem?

Log filling up with this:

248 1st day 00:18:04 DDNS NOTICE try num =3.
247 1st day 00:18:04 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
246 1st day 00:18:04 DDNS NOTICE c_time =0.
245 1st day 00:18:03 DDNS WARNING Update failed.
244 1st day 00:18:03 DDNS WARNING Get server IP failed.
243 1st day 00:17:53 DDNS NOTICE try num =2.
242 1st day 00:17:53 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
241 1st day 00:17:53 DDNS NOTICE c_time =0.
240 1st day 00:17:52 DDNS WARNING Update failed.
239 1st day 00:17:52 DDNS WARNING Get server IP failed.
238 1st day 00:17:42 DDNS NOTICE try num =1.
237 1st day 00:17:42 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
236 1st day 00:17:42 DDNS NOTICE c_time =0.
235 1st day 00:17:41 DDNS NOTICE Try 3 times and sleep 5 mins fail.
234 1st day 00:17:23 DDNS WARNING Update failed.
233 1st day 00:17:23 DDNS WARNING Get server IP failed.


Edit:14:15
Cell C connection keeps dropping every few minutes.
Maybe they are working on something.
This is giving the MR3420 a really hard time.....
Different from my normal test scenario.

[kernel]

If you revert to the old firmware are you still having these issues or are they only present on the new firmware?

[Base122]

If you revert to the old firmware are you still having these issues or are they only present on the new firmware?

Don't think it's a firmware issue, as DDNS works if I set the APN to "internet"...but then I get no inbound for my CCTV system.

***MR3220 on test also having the same problem at the moment.
Locks up every 30mins on cue as DDNS cannot update via the "unrestricted" APN at the moment.

So, at the moment, the problem is CELL C APN related, but if the "lock up" problem has really been resolved, the MR3420 should simply carry on trying under these conditions until it is eventually able to resolve the DDNS service provider name and update its host information.

This is a real world problem situation at the moment, as I have not had to simulate broken DNS by specifying bogus DNS servers...which I have had to do up to now to recreate the lock up problem.

This would be typical of where the ISP has not provided valid DNS server information, or their DNS is broken for whatever reason.

Edit:14:58
MR3420 Web Management console just "hung" a moment ago. (not good)
BUT....this time the SYS indicator is still flashing and not frozen like before.

This Cell C connection dropping constantly is getting very messy.
Will try on my Vodacom unrestricted APN rather, simulating broken DNS with bogus servers specified.

[Base122]

On we go....
MR3420 checked using vodacom unrestricted APN.
All OK.
DDNS registered and updated host.
Able to make inbound connection to CCTV system.

Now, intentionally set DNS servers in 3G settings to 10.11.12.13 and 10.11.12.14 again to simulate broken DNS.

no-ip DDNS now stuck on "connecting". (as expected)

Why this weird reference to Comexe in the log when I have set no-ip as the DDNS service provider?
Something not right here....

Looks like DDNS does not wait for the 3G connection to be established before trying to contact the DDNS service provider. Maybe it starts trying Comexe by default before reading that the user has set no-ip and then switches?

121 Nov 28 15:20:33 DDNS WARNING Update failed.
120 Nov 28 15:20:33 DDNS WARNING Get server IP failed.
119 Nov 28 15:20:23 DDNS NOTICE try num =3.
118 Nov 28 15:20:23 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
117 Nov 28 15:20:23 DDNS NOTICE c_time =1322493623.
116 Nov 28 15:20:21 DDNS WARNING Update failed.
115 Nov 28 15:20:21 DDNS WARNING Get server IP failed.
114 Nov 28 15:20:13 3G NOTICE 3G connected
113 Nov 28 15:20:11 DDNS NOTICE try num =2.
112 Nov 28 15:20:11 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
111 Nov 28 15:20:11 DDNS NOTICE c_time =0.
110 Nov 28 15:20:10 DDNS WARNING Update failed.
109 Nov 28 15:20:10 DDNS WARNING Get server IP failed.
108 Nov 28 15:20:07 DDNS INFO DDNS:Comexe get server IP failed.
107 Nov 28 15:20:04 DDNS INFO DDNS:Comexe get server IP failed.
106 Nov 28 15:20:01 DDNS INFO DDNS:Comexe get server IP failed.
105 Nov 28 15:20:00 DDNS NOTICE try num =1.
104 Nov 28 15:20:00 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
103 Nov 28 15:20:00 DDNS NOTICE c_time =0.

Will check for web management console lockup at 30min and 60min 3G online time.

Edit:15:55
So far so good, 3G online time now 35:17... MR3420 would normally have locked up by now.

255 Nov 28 15:58:14 DDNS NOTICE Try 3 times and sleep 5 mins fail.

Hope this does not just delay the inevitable....

Edit:16:23
Thought as much....
Web console hung just over 60mins.
Situation as I reported in this post:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/370386-TP-LINK-MR3420-Needs-Restart-every-couple-of-hours!!?p=7230341&viewfull=1#post7230341

Same story...Web console "hung", so you cannot manage the router anymore without a power cycle reset. SYS indicator frozen solid ON this time.
3G connection still active.
Both outbound and inbound traffic OK.

Theoretically with the MR3420 in this state, as long as inbound and outbound traffic are ok, you would never know there is a problem, until you tried to open the web management console for whatever reason.

I will leave it like this and manually update my no-ip host IP address and continue to check both inbound and outbound, to see how long this holds.

Of course, if the 3G connection drops and reconnects, I am not going to be able to open the web console to see the new IP address, to do a manual no-ip update.

But, NO, we are not there yet....dust off the drawing board again chaps!
Now how do I start billing TP-LINK for all these hours I have spent on their "not so Reliable Choice" product?? :D

Edit: 22:20
MR3420 3G connection still working. (Vodacom internet APN)
Luckily still has the same IP as earlier.
Able to make inbound connection to CCTV system and receive streaming video.
Unable to connect to Web management console, so cannot see any stats or log file info.

So with this latest beta firmware, at least the 3G connection is still active, although if it disconnects, the router will never update no-ip DDNS (DNS is broken intentionally) and I will not be able to find out what it's new 3G connection IP address has changed to by using the web console. At some point the MR3420 will "fail" to provide its intended service.

I am still be able to surf the web at the moment, by cheating a bit with DNS, in that my PC uses my ADSL gateway as a secondary DNS to resolve host names, but uses my 3G gateway to send and receive data.

Edit: 22:48
...and there goes the last of my airtime on the Vodacom SIM, ending this test!

[Base122]

...and in other news

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12539&d=1322492517

Tenda still going strong after an initial hiccup....:whistle:

[Base122]

In summary of the above posts:

Even with this beta firmware, the MR3420 cannot survive a "broken" DNS scenario.
Whether its DNS is broken intentionally, by incorrect user specified DNS servers, or missing or corrupted DNS information from the 3G ISP, its inability to resolve its own internal DDNS service provider, or NTP service name, eventually results in the web management console locking up (60mins).

Under these "broken" DNS conditions, it cannot update DDNS, set its time and date, or resolve any host names requested by clients on its network. Attempts to surf the web are met by "unable to connect" or similar, as the website address will never be resolved to an IP address. From the user point of view, the 3G connection will effectively have hung or locked up. A reset will probably restore things, till the next time there is a DNS problem in the router.

So the question remains, "what is causing DNS to fail?"
Is it the fault of the router for misinterpreting the ISP provided DNS information and then choosing a default (10.11.12.13), or are our 3G ISP's not always providing the DNS server information on each reconnect?

Even specifying the Google DNS servers cannot always save it from a lock up, as I saw earlier today, where the Cell C unrestricted APN would not even allow ping response to 8.8.8.8, using the MR3420 diagnostic tool, eventually resulting in the web management console hanging.

Maybe TP-LINK should look at some logic like, if there is a valid 3G connection, but DNS is failing (cannot resolve host names), then rather drop the connection and try again, in the hope that the correct DNS information is received.

Of course, they really also need to address the reason why the web management console is crashing at 60min after a 3G connection has been made, while DNS is broken, even if an unsuspecting user had specified bad DNS server addresses.

Edit:23:36
Cell C unrestricted APN seems to be working again.
Will try this firmware without specifying any DNS servers, but allowing the ISP provided ones to be used.

[Base122]

Testing resumed on Cell C.
My no-ip host information has been updated.
So why all this in the log?

MR3420 Log:

179 Nov 28 23:49:00 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
178 Nov 28 23:49:00 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
177 Nov 28 23:49:00 DDNS NOTICE Dyn recv data:HTTP/1.1 403 Forbidden^M Date: Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:49:00 GMT^M Server: Apache^M X-UpdateCode: X^M Content-Length: 7^M Connection: close^M Content-Type: text/html; charset=iso-8859-1^M ^M badauth]
176 Nov 28 23:49:00 DDNS NOTICE Dyn recv data successfully.
175 Nov 28 23:49:00 DDNS DEBUG Dyn send pkt successfullysss.
174 Nov 28 23:49:00 DDNS WARNING Dyn connect successfully.
173 Nov 28 23:48:59 DDNS NOTICE try num =3.
172 Nov 28 23:48:59 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
171 Nov 28 23:48:59 DDNS NOTICE c_time =1322524139.
170 Nov 28 23:48:58 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
169 Nov 28 23:48:58 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
168 Nov 28 23:48:58 DDNS NOTICE Dyn recv data:HTTP/1.1 403 Forbidden^M Date: Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:48:58 GMT^M Server: Apache^M X-UpdateCode: X^M Content-Length: 7^M Connection: close^M Content-Type: text/html; charset=iso-8859-1^M ^M badauth]
167 Nov 28 23:48:58 DDNS NOTICE Dyn recv data successfully.
166 Nov 28 23:48:58 DDNS DEBUG Dyn send pkt successfullysss.
165 Nov 28 23:48:58 DDNS WARNING Dyn connect successfully.
164 Nov 28 23:48:57 DDNS NOTICE try num =2.
163 Nov 28 23:48:57 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
162 Nov 28 23:48:57 DDNS NOTICE c_time =1322524137.
161 Nov 28 23:48:56 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
160 Nov 28 23:48:56 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
159 Nov 28 23:48:56 DDNS NOTICE Dyn recv data:HTTP/1.1 403 Forbidden^M Date: Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:48:56 GMT^M Server: Apache^M X-UpdateCode: X^M Content-Length: 7^M Connection: close^M Content-Type: text/html; charset=iso-8859-1^M ^M badauth]
158 Nov 28 23:48:56 DDNS NOTICE Dyn recv data successfully.
157 Nov 28 23:48:55 DDNS DEBUG Dyn send pkt successfullysss.
156 Nov 28 23:48:55 DDNS WARNING Dyn connect successfully.
155 Nov 28 23:48:53 DDNS NOTICE try num =1.
154 Nov 28 23:48:53 DDNS NOTICE Dyn Ip change.
153 Nov 28 23:48:53 DDNS NOTICE c_time =1322524133.
152 Nov 28 23:48:51 DDNS NOTICE Try 3 times and sleep 5 mins fail.

The log continues to fill up with similar entries, even though my no-ip host has been successfully updated and I am able to make an inbound connection and receive streaming video data.

Surely it should stop logging?

Edit: 10:04
The 110418 firmware build does not fill up the log with DDNS entries, as this beta 111128 build is doing. My no-ip DDNS has been successful, yet for some reason the MR3420 is still trying to do something....

The way I see it, is that all these failed DDNS attempts are just eating up my 3G data for no reason, so I am going back to the 110418 build, until this is properly sorted out! :mad:

[Base122]

Back on 110418 build.
What is with this Comexe?
Log is filling up again, but with different entries.

112 Nov 29 10:28:36 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
111 Nov 29 10:28:17 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
110 Nov 29 10:28:17 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
109 Nov 29 10:28:15 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
108 Nov 29 10:28:15 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
107 Nov 29 10:28:13 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
106 Nov 29 10:28:13 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
105 Nov 29 10:27:56 3G NOTICE 3G connected
104 Nov 29 10:27:53 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
103 Nov 29 10:27:53 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
102 Nov 29 10:27:48 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
101 Nov 29 10:27:48 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
100 Nov 29 10:27:48 DDNS NOTICE NO-IP Succeed!
99 Nov 29 10:27:46 DDNS INFO DDNS:Comexe quit.
98 Nov 29 10:27:46 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
97 Nov 29 10:27:46 DDNS WARNING Server response error.
96 Nov 29 10:27:44 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Ack addr=41.48.225.241 dns1=41.48.23.29 dns3=41.48.23.61]
95 Nov 29 10:27:44 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req addr=41.48.225.241 dns1=41.48.23.29 dns3=41.48.23.61]
94 Nov 29 10:27:44 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak addr=41.48.225.241 dns1=41.48.23.29 dns3=41.48.23.61]

[Base122]

Managed to stop all the DDNS warnings in the log eventually, by resetting the MR3420 back to factory defaults, loading the beta 111128 firmware and then starting from scratch entering all the settings needed for my particular configuration.

Could not use the config file I had saved earlier, as it resulted in the DDNS warnings in the log again.
DDNS seems to be behaving now, but I have not yet input all my settings yet, just sticking with basic config for now.

Having done all that, if I input bad DNS servers intentionally again, the router locks up at 30min.
So, TP-LINK still need to fix that problem urgently.

Edit: 15:05
Confirmed with a second test, using bogus DNS servers 121.13.56.72 and 121.13.56.73
Web management console crashes at 30mins.
SYS indicator solid ON
Unable to pass traffic over the 3G connection this time.
Now very easy to recreate and repeat this failure each time.

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=12375&d=1320785307

[Base122]

I sure hope TP-LINK is working hard to restore confidence in their 3G Routers, by identifying and fixing whatever issues are resulting in these "lock up" type problems.

Meanwhile, my Tenda 3G611R+ ,E367, 8ta combination is giving me rock solid and reliable performance so far.

[ginggs]

Having done all that, if I input bad DNS servers intentionally again, the router locks up at 30min.
So, TP-LINK still need to fix that problem urgently.
Are you sure you are testing the right thing?

I would have thought TP-Link would first attempt to fix the problem with the router sometimes getting the 10.11.12.13 addresses.
If they fixed that, the problem with the router locking up after 30 minutes with bad DNS settings should never occur.
Is there a changelog of the fixes in the latest firmware?

[Base122]

Are you sure you are testing the right thing?

I would have thought TP-Link would first attempt to fix the problem with the router sometimes getting the 10.11.12.13 addresses.
If they fixed that, the problem with the router locking up after 30 minutes with bad DNS settings should never occur.
Is there a changelog of the fixes in the latest firmware?

I think they are trying to "fix" the 10.11.12.13 issue, with the beta firmware.
(mr3420v1_en_3_12_19_up_111128_pppWINS.bin)

Not even using the Google DNS server 8.8.8.8 solves the problem as I hoped it might.
Something else is happening with DNS functionality in this router.

Even with 8.8.8.8 as the specified DNS server (to circumvent the 10.11.12.13 problem), the router just simply decides out of the blue, it is not providing DNS functionality anymore (fails...)
Something crashing the DNS process?

When this happens, your surfing ends, as url's cannot be resolved anymore. (DNS broken)
To the user this looks like the 3G connection has terminated, which is not necessarily the case.
(Most people would probably just reset the router at this point, allowing it to recover.)

This in turn seems to impact on the router DDNS, which cannot resolve your DDNS service provider name either.
(Generates server response errors in the log)

Then, pretty much 30mins or 60mins(not sure why) later, the web management console "hangs" with the "open filesys error!" and the 3G connection sometimes locks up or not. (tested with pings to a known IP address after the console hang)

Perhaps Kernel can enlighten us regarding changelog information and progress in resolving this problem?
(though I suspect it is proving difficult to pin down the actual problem)

The only one behaving router of the five that I have installed, is an MR3220, which does not make use of DDNS and is being used in a simple 3G sharing setup. The remaining four with DDNS active, all have had this lock up issue at some point and need power cycle resets to recover.

TP-LINK needs to find out why DNS fails in these 3G router models for no apparent reason. (This is how I see it anyway)

Till then, the Tenda is the better option (at this price level), if DDNS is important to your application.

For simple 3G sharing, you may be ok with the TP-LINK.

Would be useful to see comment from users who do not use DDNS, as to the stability of their MR3420 and MR3220's.

[Bundu]

Would be useful to see comment from users who do not use DDNS, as to the stability of their MR3420 and MR3220's.

I don't use DDNS - I just use the MR3420 for 3G sharing - Firmware Version: 3.12.8 Build 110418 Rel.43954n and modem E1820 (doesn't like the K4505Z) - router is rock solid in my case
GF has MR3220, which is also 100% stable

[Base122]

Forgot to mention....
One of my MR3420's is being used with a PPPoE WAN connection (ISP supplied DNS server info) and DDNS (no-ip.com) active.

It is rock solid in this configuration. (Have had it running for weeks on end with no issues)

As soon as I switch it to 3G, the trouble starts......

[Bundu]

Forgot to mention....
One of my MR3420's is being used with a PPPoE WAN connection (ISP supplied DNS server info) and DDNS (no-ip.com) active.

It is rock solid in this configuration. (Have had it running for weeks on end with no issues)

As soon as I switch it to 3G, the trouble starts......

have you tried the German FW here? http://www.tplink.com/de/support/download.asp?a=1&m=TL-MR3420
Published Date:
6/24/2011

File Size:
3.056 MB

Operation System:
Win2000/ XP/ 2003/ 7/ Vista/ Linux/ MAC

Modifications and Bug Fixes:


Fix the wrong warning error of PUK Lockup.
Fix the 3G Page hangs problem.
Fix some dial-up problems caused by pppd quit.
Add or modify the ISP list;
Improve the compatibility:
1) Huawei E173(vid=12d1,pid=1c0b)
2) Huawei E367
3) ZTE MF192(vid=19d2,pid=1216)
4) Huawei E226(vid=12d1,pid=1003)
Add PIN Athentication on 3G Page.

[SHiBBY]

Guys, it seems that the people who are finding the TL-MR3420 to be insufficient or sub-standard are all those trying to use the more advanced features of it.

So, for someone like me who just wants to plug my E372 into a router, connect to my Xbox and play online or connect to my PC and watch YouTube videos, do I need to worry about the issues experienced?

[PKruger]

... do I need to worry about the issues experienced?
I have a TP-LINK MR3220, and I do not use any of the advanced features, and I have had no problems so far. Admittedly, I do not keep the router on for more than about 12 hours at a time. I assume that the MR3420 will also play nice under the circumstance you described. ;)

[SHiBBY]

Well I used to leave my DLink DIR-451 on 24/7, but then in an attempt to get my speeds and latency back to normal, I got this silly idea that "maybe 8ta is monitoring the time I have been connected and flagging me as greedy, thus throttling my line", and since then I have been turning it on when I get hom from work, and turning it off when I go to sleep.

I might just give it a go..!

[PKruger]

Just a followup: One of my friends do in fact use a MR3420 to connect his PS3, iMac, IPads, BlackBerry, etc. to the Internet. I do not know how long the router stays on at a time, but he has no complains on the MR3420. :)

[substance]

Thanks everyone for this thread!

My MR3420 was going along peachy till the web management console issues...
Of course after some reading here my enabled DDNS rang a bell.
It also explains why I could never login remotely...

[evovtech]

Using MR3420 and a USB Huawei E1750 previously occurs hanging on the 3G connectivity and not able to access the management console. I need to restart it after 10 to 12 hours. I try to upgrade it using the firmware TL-MR3420_v1_110617. After the upgrade, I can only ping 8.8.8.8 but not yahoo.com or cnn.com and browsing the internet is not working. But after few hours it works and I still wonder how. Currently the device is still operational.

Here are details on the log file.

Dec 18 11:26:18 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14 ms-wins=10.11.12.13 ms-wins=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:26:18 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0 dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:26:48 PPP ERROR No network protocols running
Dec 18 11:26:48 PPP ERROR LCP down
Dec 18 11:26:48 PPP WARNING LCP down
Dec 18 11:26:48 PPP INFO sent [LCP TermReq]
Dec 18 11:26:51 PPP INFO sent [LCP TermReq]
Dec 18 11:27:01 PPP NOTICE Standard authentication.
Dec 18 11:27:01 3G INFO Run 3G dial cmd: pppd /dev/ttyUSB3 115200 connect "chat -s -v -f /etc/ppp/conn-s]
Dec 18 11:27:32 PPP INFO sent [LCP Req mru=1480 asyncmap=0x0 magic=0x7e7a8fdc]
Dec 18 11:27:43 3G NOTICE 3G Modem connecting error, please check the dial number and APN.
Dec 18 11:27:45 3G INFO mobileCmdReq 288 mobileFormatCmd error
Dec 18 11:27:55 PPP NOTICE Standard authentication.
Dec 18 11:27:55 3G INFO Run 3G dial cmd: pppd /dev/ttyUSB0 115200 connect "chat -s -v -f /etc/ppp/conn-s
Dec 18 11:28:22 PPP NOTICE Standard authentication.
Dec 18 11:28:22 3G INFO Run 3G dial cmd: pppd /dev/ttyUSB3 115200 connect "chat -s -v -f /etc/ppp/conn-s
Dec 18 11:28:33 3G NOTICE Modem switchs failed, reset the 3G modem, please wait.
Dec 18 11:28:35 3G INFO mobileCmdReq 288 mobileFormatCmd error
Dec 18 11:28:42 3G INFO 3G Modem vendorID: 0x12d1; productID: 0x1446
Dec 18 11:28:45 3G INFO Switch modem mode with the 0 command in the file usb_modeswitch.conf
Dec 18 11:28:52 3G INFO 3G Modem vendorID: 0x12d1; productID: 0x1436
Dec 18 11:29:57 3G INFO Main interface_index[0] = -1
Dec 18 11:29:57 3G INFO Vice interface_index[1] = 0
Dec 18 11:29:57 3G INFO Vice interface_index[2] = 3
Dec 18 11:29:57 3G INFO Line:926 cmd: modem_scan -d /dev/ttyUSB0 -f "chat -S -V -f /tmp/script" > /tmp/modem_info 2>&1
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944: 11.126.10.00.00
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944: OK
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944: ATZ
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944: OK
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 944: AT+CGMM
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line 953: E1750
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO getModemParamByScript 1099 Chip type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO get_modem_info_file 140 getModemParamByScript return valid type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:00 3G INFO Line:926 cmd: modem_scan -d /dev/ttyUSB0 -f "chat -S -V -f /tmp/script" > /tmp/modem_info 2>&1
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: E1750
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: OK
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: ATZ
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: OK
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: AT+CSQ
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 978: +CSQ: 24,99
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: OK^M
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: Serial connection established.
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line 944: Serial link disconnected.
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO getModemParamByScript 1099 Chip type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO get_modem_info_file 155 getModemParamByScript return valid type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:02 3G INFO Line:926 cmd: modem_scan -d /dev/ttyUSB0 -f "chat -S -V -f /tmp/script" > /tmp/modem_info 2>&1
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: +CSQ: 24,99
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: OK
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: ATZ
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: OK
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: AT+CPIN?
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 1024: +CPIN: READY
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944:
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: OK^M
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: Serial connection established.
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO Line 944: Serial link disconnected.
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO getModemParamByScript 1099 Chip type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO get_modem_info_file 170 getModemParamByScript return valid type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO get_modem_info_file 185 Return chip type = 1
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO 3G Modem vendorID: 0x12d1; productID: 0x1436
Dec 18 11:30:05 3G INFO USB modem is ready
Dec 18 11:30:11 PPP NOTICE Standard authentication.
Dec 18 11:30:11 3G INFO Run 3G dial cmd: pppd /dev/ttyUSB0 115200 connect "chat -s -v -f /etc/ppp/conn-s
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO sent [LCP Req mru=1480 asyncmap=0x0 magic=0x8616f9c2]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO rcvd [LCP Req asyncmap=0x0 auth=chap-MD5 magic=0xf64329 pcomp accomp]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO sent [LCP Rej pcomp accomp]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO rcvd [LCP Ack mru=1480 asyncmap=0x0 magic=0x8616f9c2]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO rcvd [LCP Req asyncmap=0x0 auth=chap-MD5 magic=0xf64329]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO sent [LCP Ack asyncmap=0x0 auth=chap-MD5 magic=0xf64329]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO rcvd [LCP DiscReq magic=0xf64329]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO rcvd [CHAP Challenge (d8d77c417ec73e6b32589be6e4b0bbe0), name = "UMTS_CHAP_SRVR"]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO sent [CHAP Response (3d826c4c4b969f269af31d8605659ad9), name = ""]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO rcvd [CHAP Success ""]
Dec 18 11:30:14 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0 dns1=0.0.0.0 dns3=0.0.0.0]
Dec 18 11:30:15 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14 ms-wins=10.11.12.13 ms-wins=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:30:15 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0 dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:30:16 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14 ms-wins=10.11.12.13 ms-wins=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:30:16 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req compress VJ 0f 01 addr=0.0.0.0 dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Req]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Nak addr=0.0.0.0]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Rej compress VJ 0f 01]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req addr=0.0.0.0 dns1=10.11.12.13 dns3=10.11.12.14]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Req]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Ack]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO rcvd [IPCP Nak addr=10.220.157.34 dns1=84.235.6.55 dns3=84.235.57.230]
Dec 18 11:30:17 PPP INFO sent [IPCP Req addr=10.220.157.34 dns1=84.235.6.55 dns3=84.235.57.230]
Dec 18 11:30:21 3G NOTICE 3G connected

[avillegof]

Well, this thread is almost three months old, lots of people have been working on the issue, it has been fully characterized and some partial workarounds are available, but with no full solution at this point unless we accept using this fancy 3G router as a dumb access point, what is definitely not what we purchased. Is the manufacturer not going to solve this? As a motivation, it gets quite easy now to find the issue in google, not a good thing for them.

These days the quality of a product is not that much tied to the hardware (which is mid-grade at most, sufficient most of the times) but to the software maintenance. It is unfortunate that we end users end up being betatesters, specially if we don't get updates after our feedback. We have paid for this thing!

[kwaggawerner]

I agree with avillegof.

I do think that the distributor/importer aka uniterm, must start pushing for results, this really is unacceptable, just in the last 30 minutes, two of my MR3220's decided to randomly disconnect.

[eshwar]

Has anyone tried using openwrt then? Its a supported router. If indeed its a software issue it should go away!

[Base122]

Kernel, any feedback from TP-Link regarding this Web Console lockup problem yet?

I honestly hope they still have an official open ticket on this issue.

You have quite a few (very) unhappy customers wanting to use DDNS, who are not getting value for money with the MR3420 and MR3220, in terms of stability and TP-LINK's much touted "The Reliable Choice".

If TP-LINK cannot resolve this, I think a refund would be in order under these circumstances.
You cannot expect your customers to simply absorb the cost of this.

No way I'm going to put these units in the field where DDNS is required, with questionable reliability and stability.
(Simple 3G sharing applications only maybe....)

Wastes my time in terms of support and makes the product look bad.

[kernel]

Kernel, any feedback from TP-Link regarding this Web Console lockup problem yet?

I honestly hope they still have an official open ticket on this issue.

You have quite a few (very) unhappy customers wanting to use DDNS, who are not getting value for money with the MR3420 and MR3220, in terms of stability and TP-LINK's much touted "The Reliable Choice".

If TP-LINK cannot resolve this, I think a refund would be in order under these circumstances.
You cannot expect your customers to simply absorb the cost of this.

No way I'm going to put these units in the field where DDNS is required, with questionable reliability and stability.
(Simple 3G sharing applications only maybe....)

Wastes my time in terms of support and makes the product look bad.

Hi Base122

As explained in my PM to you earlier....

We're unfortunately not getting very helpful feedback from TP-LINK on this particular issue (which is pretty much the only issue on the TP-LINK 3G routers)

We will continue to work with them and will provide feedback as soon as we have news.

I realise that the DDNS is a "feature" of the MR3420 and should work, but its never really a good idea to use a consumer product for a high end commercial application, we have other products such as the Mikrotik 751U (http://www.dbg.co.za/product_info.php?products_id=743) that would probably be better suited to this sort of application at the same price, I'm not making excuses but trying to offer a solution that may work.

We're willing to offer these as alternative products to clients who have this as a requirement and where there's merit, we will certainly consider offering a refund. At the end of the day, we want to build long standing relationships with our customers and want to be known as the guys in the industry that are willing to work with customers to find a solution.

We have also been testing another brand that works well with the DDNS which we could in the future offer as a cheaper product to handle DDNS but we're probably about 2 months away from launching that product.

[kernel]

and guys apologies for the delay in my response, I was no longer getting notifications on this thread.

I give you my word that we are still pushing TP-LINK to get this resolved we're just not quite getting the desired results from them which is unusual, their support is usually very good, I just think they're having trouble fixing the problem.

[Base122]

Hi Base122

As explained in my PM to you earlier....

We're unfortunately not getting very helpful feedback from TP-LINK on this particular issue (which is pretty much the only issue on the TP-LINK 3G routers)

We will continue to work with them and will provide feedback as soon as we have news.

I realise that the DDNS is a "feature" of the MR3420 and should work, but its never really a good idea to use a consumer product for a high end commercial application, we have other products such as the Mikrotik 751U (http://www.dbg.co.za/product_info.php?products_id=743) that would probably be better suited to this sort of application at the same price, I'm not making excuses but trying to offer a solution that may work.

We're willing to offer these as alternative products to clients who have this as a requirement and where there's merit, we will certainly consider offering a refund. At the end of the day, we want to build long standing relationships with our customers and want to be known as the guys in the industry that are willing to work with customers to find a solution.

We have also been testing another brand that works well with the DDNS which we could in the future offer as a cheaper product to handle DDNS but we're probably about 2 months away from launching that product.

My application (DDNS required) is not really high end commercial, but rather home and small business.
Nevertheless, reliability and stability are just as important.

I have a MikroTik RB751 running on test at the moment as mentioned in this thread:
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/273744-Routers-to-use-with-3G-HSPA-Modems?p=7431527&viewfull=1#post7431527

It is working very well, but the interface is not as friendly as the MR3420 for a client who is wanting to control internet access for their kids for example.

I'd still recommend the Tenda 3G611R+ at the moment.
Just cant get my ZTE MF-190 Cell C white stick to work in it yet, but then, I had trouble with it in the RB751 as well.

Good to see that long term business relationships are more important to the local supplier than leaving customers stuck with products that do not really perform as advertised. :)

[Base122]

Has anyone tried using openwrt then? Its a supported router. If indeed its a software issue it should go away!

I gave OpenWrt (LuCI and Gargoyle) on the MR3420 a try earlier in the week.
(Don't make the mistake of "accidentally" loading the non Web Interface firmware version, as that can be challenging to recover from!) :D

I had some issues in trying to meet my requirements though.

With all due respect to OpenWrt fans, it is more of an enthusiasts approach and probably wouldn't go down well with some of my clients who are more comfortable with a friendlier and more understandable GUI.

[ajax]

(Don't make the mistake of "accidentally" loading the non Web Interface firmware version, as that can be challenging to recover from!) :D


Guilty as charged :o
I tried it earlier last year, didn't have enough Flash memory to add the GUI. Had to quickly learn basic Linux to get around and yes, recover back to the TP-Link firmware.

[caiobauab]

Same problem here from Brazil with my TP-WR1043ND !! DNS Static, no 3G on USB, but HD on USB for bkp. It hangs 3 times a day, no web, no ping, no wifi signal.

Using last firmware:
Firmware Version:
3.13.4 Build 110429 Rel.36959n
Hardware Version:
WR1043ND v1 00000000

Hopping TP-Link is working in this problem !!

[kernel]

Same problem here from Brazil with my TP-WR1043ND !! DNS Static, no 3G on USB, but HD on USB for bkp. It hangs 3 times a day, no web, no ping, no wifi signal.

Using last firmware:
Firmware Version:
3.13.4 Build 110429 Rel.36959n
Hardware Version:
WR1043ND v1 00000000

Hopping TP-Link is working in this problem !!

The TL-WR1043ND doesnt have 3G modem support so you're not going to get that working with standard TP-LINK firmware. Have you tried uploading the latest firmware and then doing a factory default and reconfigure?

[caiobauab]

The TL-WR1043ND doesnt have 3G modem support so you're not going to get that working with standard TP-LINK firmware. Have you tried uploading the latest firmware and then doing a factory default and reconfigure?

Hi kernel,, I know my firmware not support 3G and I dont want to use one. I just write to say which my router have same hang/freeze problem. But thank you for your reply and sorry my poor english.

[johanb]

I had similar issues on my MR3420. Sometimes the 3G will show as "Unplugged" and the only way to recover was to do a Reboot.

I've installed OpenWRT and I'm not turning back. Because the 3G modem still gives issues (but a lot less), I've written a cron job to reset the USB device and retry the connection every 5 minutes. And the nice thing about OpenWRT is you can customise it to do whatever you want it to do. I've added scripts to mail me reports at the end of each day, including data usage, etc.

The downside is it takes a lot of time to set up properly, and you need some unix skills.

[redcap]

Hey,

can you post your code or send it to me via PM?

Thanks :)

[kernel]

oh, I didn't know that TP-LINK Router has a problem like that. TP-link is good in the normal wireless router, but with the 3G router, they are lack of power to update the firmware, maybe you guys can try our 3G router MCT-818, it‘s with same function and with battery! Know more on our website: www.mconect.com

mmmh, currently the TP-LINK routers have the widest modem support of any 3G router in South Africa and it works with about 97% of the local 3G adapters, if a modem is not supported, it can be added within a few days, maybe post a list of your supported modems or a link to the supported modems so that forum members can get an idea of which is a better supported product.

[kernel]

Good one! We have our competiable list on our website, but I don't know how to upload it here. We can updating a new firmware for the not support USB modem in 1 days.... this must be fast than TP-link !! and we offer with good price also !!

Yes I've seen that, your list (http://www.mconect.com/html/download/000404.html) has 108 compatible modems vs the 196 (http://www.tp-link.com/en/support/3g-comp-list/?location=1963) that TP-LINK has. I see your point.

[OGroteKoning]

... if a modem is not supported, it can be added within a few days...

Can you please get the K4605 to be supported by the TP-Link MR 3420

[kernel]

Can you please get the K4605 to be supported by the TP-Link MR 3420

This particular modem as you're aware has proven to be problematic and we've not been able to get modem support added but perhaps it works on the Mconect product.

[OGroteKoning]

This particular modem as you're aware has proven to be problematic and we've not been able to get modem support added but perhaps it works on the Mconect product.

Yup - there is a problem between the modem and the MR3420 (not sure if it is the modem), but when I read that it can be added in a couple of days, I got exited and thought you had strong words to the suppliers of TP-Link and a new commitment from them to resolve issues was born.

I had a look in the Mconect supported modems list and could not find it.

[OGroteKoning]

Good one! We have our competiable list on our website, but I don't know how to upload it here. We can updating a new firmware for the not support USB modem in 1 days.... this must be fast than TP-link !! and we offer with good price also !!

Does the MCT-818 and/or MCT-810 support the HUAWEI K4605 modem?

[Base122]

After many months of frustration with the MR3420 and one too many customer complaints about often having to reset the router, along with TP-LINK seemingly unable or unwilling to fix the DDNS related lock-up problem, I have embarked on a replacement exercise.

I am returning all my installed TP-LINK 3G routers (DDNS required), bar for one MR3220 (3G sharing only application), to the local supplier and replacing them with MikroTik RB751U's.

Financially, I have lost out where I am having to replace a cheaper MR3220 with a more expensive RB751U, as I cannot very well pass this cost on to the customer (who just wants a reliable solution) at this point. Not to mention the cost of all the hours and traveling out to sites to try and figure out the reasons for the many problems over the past few months.

So far the MikroTik units have proved to be pretty reliable, especially in my "DDNS essential" CCTV remote monitoring application.

I am sure there are many, many users of TP-LINK MR3420 and MR3220's out there, who are quite happy with the product at the price point, but if you are looking for better reliability when it comes to DDNS required applications, rather look elsewhere.
As I said, I have one MR3220 still in service in a simple 3G sharing application, with no complaints so far.

The MikroTik option is great, if you can stand the learning curve and the many hours you may spend tweaking the configuration to your specific needs.

By the way OGroteKoning, I have a K4605 working in my RB751U at the moment on RouterOS v5.14 :)
...as does ginggs...http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/400897-MikroTik-RouterBoard-and-USB-3G-Modems?p=7668375&viewfull=1#post7668375

I am thinking of starting an "RB751 tips, tricks, configs and scripts" sharing specific thread if there is any interest.....

[OGroteKoning]

How about that?!! It is quite odd that Mikrotik, Intellinet and other 3G router suppliers try and succeed to assist to resolve issues with modems and their routers ... and yet ... everyone at TP-Link spend their energy to come up with excuses ... if they don't want or does not know how to or could not care less to help, they expext the customer to sort it out with a sniffer tool or they tell the customer that the modem is problematic! PATHETIC! What they tend to forget is that everyone was happy when a sale went through.

At the time when offered, I declined returning the router for a refund. I was stupid! I should have accepted the offer instead of waiting and hoping in vain for a solution.

Thanks Base122 for the info. I must look for an alternative router - the penny dropped ... the TP-Link and it's support is just not good enough. I will look into the Mikrotik.

Sent from my Galaxy S II

[jouda]

Just a bit of feedback. I gave up on my TP-link router. I dont have time to struggle with a piece of hardware that fails. The guys at uniterm asked me to bring my router and dongle in, but I just didnt have the time and it seems like quite a few people are experiencing the same issues. I bought an Asus RT-N56U (http://www.asus.com/Networks/Wireless_Routers/RTN56U/) and my ZTE mr 668 works with no problems, no restarts needed thus far (running 8 days thus far). Yes it is a MUCH more expensive router and yes comparing it to the MR3430 is unfair, but it works and works well.

[jouda]

Just a bit of feedback. I gave up on my TP-link router. I dont have time to struggle with a piece of hardware that fails. The guys at uniterm asked me to bring my router and dongle in, but I just didnt have the time and it seems like quite a few people are experiencing the same issues. I bought an Asus RT-N56U (http://www.asus.com/Networks/Wireless_Routers/RTN56U/) and my ZTE mr 668 works with no problems, no restarts needed thus far (running 8 days thus far). Yes it is a MUCH more expensive router and yes comparing it to the MR3430 is unfair, but it works and works well.

I forgot to mention that the router does not support 3G devices out of the box, but flashing the device with the latest firmware adds the required functionality.

[Bola Driessel]

why do you guys just buy the router that don't require USB modem? The router that take SIM card won't be more convinious? that you don't need to warry about the USB modem not working with the router.

[jouda]

why do you guys just buy the router that don't require USB modem? The router that take SIM card won't be more convinious? that you don't need to warry about the USB modem not working with the router.

well the TP-link looked like a good option at the time as it was a much cheaper option. I decided to get the Asus because it is such a flexible router. How a bout a suggestion on which router you think we should buy?

[Jola]

why do you guys just buy the router that don't require USB modem?


There are very few of those, and most of them have serious disadvantages, ie too slow, limited wifi range, etc.

[sajunky]

There are very few of those, and most of them have serious disadvantages, ie too slow, limited wifi range, etc.
Nice solution is to use battery powered MiFi modem with one Ethernet port, it can be wired by to a real Wifi router.

[kwaggawerner]

Hey guys,

New firmware has been uploaded! http://www.tp-link.com/en/support/download/?model=TL-MR3220&version=V1

It's revision 9 March 2012 - TL-MR3220_V1_120309.

[Bundu]

Hey guys,

New firmware has been uploaded! http://www.tp-link.com/en/support/download/?model=TL-MR3220&version=V1

It's revision 9 March 2012 - TL-MR3220_V1_120309.

wonder why there is no new version for 3420 ??

[kwaggawerner]

UPDATE: So, I have loaded the new firmware for both of my 3220's...

At first glance, the wildly erratic and inaccurate signal-strength bar, as well as the "3G Modem" or "Modem X" name has is now been replaced with a "Identified successfully" message.

With my ZTE K3805-Z, the router now has an established connection, in less than a minute! Whoop Whoop, it used to take about 3 to 5 minutes.

The other 3220 of mine, with a Huawei E367 modem, it does seem a little faster in the modem detection stage, but overall connection time is still a couple minutes.

Overall web interface response seems a little faster, but that might be a placebo effect.

Sorry 3420 guys, I'm sure an update will follow soon, the PC board is essentially identical.

Update 2:

Still no damn improved DNS registry... still the crappy three-provider list.

The log-output has been improved:

155 Apr 3 14:41:12 DHCP NOTICE DHCPS:Recv INFORM from 00:27:19:BC:EB:37
154 Apr 3 14:40:54 DHCP NOTICE DHCPS:Send ACK to 192.168.168.100
153 Apr 3 14:40:54 DHCP NOTICE DHCPS:Recv REQUEST from 18:87:96:7C:86:6F
152 Apr 3 14:40:10 DHCP NOTICE DHCPS:Recv INFORM from 00:27:19:BC:EB:37
151 Apr 3 14:38:29 DHCP NOTICE DHCPS:Send ACK to 192.168.168.100
150 Apr 3 14:38:29 DHCP NOTICE DHCPS:Recv REQUEST from 18:87:96:7C:86:6F

It used to be 1st Day, 2nd day, 3rd Day crap. I'm glad they are making use of proper time and dates.

Statistics page has been tweaked.

Interface as a whole is definitely faster, slow page loading seems to be greatly improved.

[OGroteKoning]

wonder why there is no new version for 3420 ??

+1 ... might be a day or so - lets hold thumbs!

[kytonpc]

For those interested, TP-Link has a new firmware for the 3420 routers up

Added more ISP information
Improved the compatibility
Fixed some description errors on the management page

http://www.tp-link.com/Resources/software/TL-MR3420_V1_120508.zip

[Bundu]

For those interested, TP-Link has a new firmware for the 3420 routers up

Added more ISP information
Improved the compatibility
Fixed some description errors on the management page

http://www.tp-link.com/Resources/software/TL-MR3420_V1_120508.zip

but this version does not name the modem, it only states 'identified'

and the MF668 is stable, but doesn't recognise the modem again when the connection has been lost

[elf_lord_ZC5]

I am thinking of starting an "RB751 tips, tricks, configs and scripts" sharing specific thread if there is any interest.....

Please do so, I for one would appreciate it. Thanks

[Base122]

Please do so, I for one would appreciate it. Thanks

Take a look at the "MikroTik RouterBoard and USB 3G Modems" thread.

[Voodoomon]

So I take it this was never sorted out?

I have a TL-MR3220 (using the latest firmware) that is doing this and it is annoying the crap out of me

Im not using it for 3g, its using a WAN conection (iBurst) and is set to "WAN ONLY"
Every 6 hours or so.. frozen and needs to be turned off and back on, quite a bunch of crap to be honest and I am not happy with it at all.

[elf_lord_ZC5]

Take a look at the "MikroTik RouterBoard and USB 3G Modems" thread.

Thanks, will do

[Voodoomon]

Well I seem to have figured it out, I am 99% sure its a heat issue and a firmware update will never fix that.

I built a little unit with 2 - 80mm fans stuck together with some rubber feet under them so its raised a little bit, the fans blow upward into the router and it has not frozen since I set this fan thing up, 12 hours + ago

[Jola]

OK, I have given up on my 3420, which I have used until today.

I purchased an Asus RT-N13U a while ago, but was disappointed as it did not support the latest modems. This has now been fixed with a new firmware upgrade and I can recommend this router for all general users. But please upgrade the firmware.

In the meantime I got tempted by the Asus RT-N66U, and have just installed this little monster. This must be the Rolls Royce of 3G routers and can do everything that you could possibly dream of. It also works brilliantly with my fast E372 modems.

Edit : But don't install any firmware after 3.0.0.3.90 on the RT-N66U, it breaks the 3G functionality.

[salmanghiyas]

Well I seem to have figured it out, I am 99% sure its a heat issue and a firmware update will never fix that.

I built a little unit with 2 - 80mm fans stuck together with some rubber feet under them so its raised a little bit, the fans blow upward into the router and it has not frozen since I set this fan thing up, 12 hours + ago

Hello All,

first of all i would like to thanks and appreciate everyone here who contributed and shared their experiences for this issue ...

I had to google a bit first to get registered here because of the Random Question asked in the registration process "which mobile operator has a yellow slogan" :P as i am not from SA.

as a matter of fact i own this device i:e TL-MR3420 too ... bought this one few days back because of its attractive price and features ( specially detachable antennas and 3G connectivity ), recently i purchased a 3G USB modem from my local ISP of ZTE model: AC2791 and was looking for a wireless solution for my home so found this router and bought, i also purchased 2 TL-ANT2408CL ( 8dbi ) antennas along with it for better signal strength.

I liked the router at first because ZTE AC2791 was not in the supported device list of this router but with manual configuration I easily managed to set it up and every thing was working very fine and smooth.

but then things started happening :P the same scenario which everyone was facing here was happening with me too ... device was perfectly working on WAN but as soon as i plug my 3G modem after a while the router gets stuck .. can't even open the web console .. last option = reboot :S

Even though I noticed that the router gets more HOT when using it with 3G modem as compared to WAN so i thought of putting a Power Supply FAN under it but then i ignored this idea don't know why.

anyways, suffered 2,3 days in finding a solution for it and finally today found this thread :), after reading all the 11 pages patiently i must say people here contributed their efforts, experiences and knowledge very generously, an issue which was declared as a manufacturing fault in the device and still people were voluntarily trying to resolve that which was amazing, so THUMBS UP for you all :)

I have Quoted "Voodoomon's" post because I too want to declare this as an official SOLUTION for the said issue of this device :)

The only fix till now is to put a FAN under the device or keep it cool some how and you will never face the lock up issue :) , i did this today and its been more then 12 hours now everything is working just fine

Enjoy :)

[sajunky]

I had to google a bit first to get registered here because of the Random Question asked in the registration process "which mobile operator has a yellow slogan" :P as i am not from SA.
What a f%$&#! :)

[ajax]

I also have the version 1 MR3420. It was perhaps short sighted of the designers to put the air vents on the sides. Mine has always been standing at a 45 degree angle so that there is a natural flow of air through the device.
I can definitely feel it running cooler this way.

[Jola]

I stopped using mine a while ago because of the issues.

Maybe I will drill it full of holes and glue a fan to the top and see what happens.

[salmanghiyas]

I stopped using mine a while ago because of the issues.

Maybe I will drill it full of holes and glue a fan to the top and see what happens.

Lol ... u might not have to drill :)

here is what i set up ... my TL-MR3420 with 2x8dbi TP-Link antennas ...yooo \_/ !! :D

https://www.dropbox.com/s/1hsivvnwp2tqo2k/20121104_183501.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ydz5s28qu5i9lsd/20121104_183541.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/yu3m4fpx11zj7s4/20121104_183606.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pttnpojy4ugqrw1/20121104_183707.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4tr6jprlkqbu92r/20121104_183901.jpg

[elf_lord_ZC5]

Sorry, cannot see pics

[Jola]

Lol ... u might not have to drill :)

here is what i set up ... my TL-MR3420 with 2x8dbi TP-Link antennas ...yooo \_/ !! :D

https://www.dropbox.com/s/1hsivvnwp2tqo2k/20121104_183501.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ydz5s28qu5i9lsd/20121104_183541.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/yu3m4fpx11zj7s4/20121104_183606.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pttnpojy4ugqrw1/20121104_183707.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4tr6jprlkqbu92r/20121104_183901.jpg

Wow, I guess that is stable ?

[OGroteKoning]

Lol ... u might not have to drill :)

here is what i set up ... my TL-MR3420 with 2x8dbi TP-Link antennas ...yooo \_/ !! :D

https://www.dropbox.com/s/1hsivvnwp2tqo2k/20121104_183501.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ydz5s28qu5i9lsd/20121104_183541.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/yu3m4fpx11zj7s4/20121104_183606.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pttnpojy4ugqrw1/20121104_183707.jpg
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4tr6jprlkqbu92r/20121104_183901.jpg

Bit of an overkill if you ask me, but sometimes you need to overkill to get proper performance ... I might just try this myself. Thanks for sharing

[Park@82]

@ salmanghiyas welcome to MYBB.

I also have a MR3420 and don't have as many problems probably because I only use it at night and switch it off when I go to bed.

[Rocket-Boy]

I just bumped into this thread now.
Its all tp-link routers that do this. I have 13 adsl routers at remote sites (various model numbers) and all of them lock up after a while. I have one on my office as a backup channel too and it also requires a reboot every few days.
Its becoming a real pain having to phone someone at each remote site to get them to restart the router so that I can get VPN comms back up.
Its now monday morning and surprise surprise 5 routers out of 13 needed reboots.
I was a firm fan of their routers before this but now Im going to recommend people stay away from them.

[chrisc4290]

You must have a bum model. I have both a MR3220 and MR3420 for over a year and they operate flawlessly. Both with a Huawei E1820. Suggest swop it out

[rodga]

@ salmanghiyas welcome to MYBB.

I also have a MR3420 and don't have as many problems probably because I only use it at night and switch it off when I go to bed.

I leave mine on and every couple of hours/days I have to reboot
its quite irritating

[Bundu]

You must have a bum model. I have both a MR3220 and MR3420 for over a year and they operate flawlessly. Both with a Huawei E1820. Suggest swop it out

we also have a 3220 and a 3420, both working perfectly with the E1820 - I sometimes use a K4505z and a MF668 on the 3420 and it does then occasionally lose the modem, but I'm still able to remotely reboot the router over WiFi - am thinking that the other two modems perhaps draw more current than the E1820.....

[rodga]

we also have a 3220 and a 3420, both working perfectly with the E1820 - I sometimes use a K4505z and a MF668 on the 3420 and it does then occasionally lose the modem, but I'm still able to remotely reboot the router over WiFi - am thinking that the other two modems perhaps draw more current than the E1820.....

im using a k4505z as well

[Bundu]

im using a k4505z as well

then it's probably more an issue of WHICH modem one uses on the 3420/3220 - with the E1820 mine stays logged on for weeks on end

the best firmware I have found to be Firmware Version: 3.12.19 Build 111121 Rel.99399n on the 3420

[salmanghiyas]

You must have a bum model. I have both a MR3220 and MR3420 for over a year and they operate flawlessly. Both with a Huawei E1820. Suggest swop it out

would you mind sharing your usage/day? i:e Router's up time ?

[salmanghiyas]

we also have a 3220 and a 3420, both working perfectly with the E1820 - I sometimes use a K4505z and a MF668 on the 3420 and it does then occasionally lose the modem, but I'm still able to remotely reboot the router over WiFi - am thinking that the other two modems perhaps draw more current than the E1820.....

if you are able to access the router's web console over wifi .. that means the router is not stuck and not in lock up state ...

its the gateway issue .. u just need to do the following ...

on win7 OS .. go to status of connection and click Diagnose
on winXP OS .. go to status of connection and click Repair

[Bundu]

if you are able to access the router's web console over wifi .. that means the router is not stuck and not in lock up state ...

its the gateway issue .. u just need to do the following ...

on win7 OS .. go to status of connection and click Diagnose
on winXP OS .. go to status of connection and click Repair

I agree, the router probably doesn't hang, but it no longer detects the modem - to fix that I have to reboot the router

[salmanghiyas]

I agree, the router probably doesn't hang, but it no longer detects the modem - to fix that I have to reboot the router

then the problem aint with ur router bro .. buh with yewr Modem :) ...
maybe its going in IDLE state ( ur modem ) check ur modem settings

[rodga]

I agree, the router probably doesn't hang, but it no longer detects the modem - to fix that I have to reboot the router

this is the problem
the router is fine and I am still connected via wifi
its the modem that gets disconnected
on the status page it will state "identifying" but never does
only a reboot works for me....

[Bundu]

this is the problem
the router is fine and I am still connected via wifi
its the modem that gets disconnected
on the status page it will state "identifying" but never does
only a reboot works for me....

same here

[salmanghiyas]

and people .. i dont know whether how many of you know this or not ... but i am mentioning it .. as while reading the 11 pages of this thread .. i remember few said wireless connectivity of this device as 300mb ...

this router MR3420 has 300mb speed on Lan ports .. not on wireless ... on wifi u'll connect on 64mb

[Bundu]

and people .. i dont know whether how many of you know this or not ... but i am mentioning it .. as while reading the 11 pages of this thread .. i remember few said wireless connectivity of this device as 300mb ...

this router MR3420 has 300mb speed on Lan ports .. not on wireless ... on wifi u'll connect on 64mb

the router manual says Wireless N speed up to 300Mbps

[salmanghiyas]

this is the problem
the router is fine and I am still connected via wifi
its the modem that gets disconnected
on the status page it will state "identifying" but never does
only a reboot works for me....
what firmware are you on ?
make sure u are on the latest Firmware ... i:e Firmware Version: 3.12.21 Build 120523 Rel.37880n
is ur modem included in the compatible device list ? or u set it up manually in the router config ?

[OGroteKoning]

then the problem aint with ur router bro .. buh with yewr Modem :) ...
maybe its going in IDLE state ( ur modem ) check ur modem settings

This router is unstable with 3g. There are enough people who have problems to prove that it is. If the problem is with my 3g dongle, pleasd explain why it would disconnect with the K3565, K3770, K3520 and my K4605. I have tried a number of firmwares. I even tried to build my own bin files (because the guys at TP-Link are too useless to solve the problem). If you don't have a problem, then you either use your router for a very short period of time, or you were lucky to not get one that is unstable as a lot of people reported, in which case you can count your lucky stars.

[salmanghiyas]

let me share one more experience of mine .. i have a ZTE AC2791 - CDMAA2000 1x EV-DO wireless data terminal .. gives me speed up to 9.3MB down and up to 5.4MB up ...

when i bought this .. regardless of putting it in to the Tp link router .. it was getting HOT like i've put a burner under it ... even if i connect it to my lappy directly ... i called the company .. they said u have to visit the ZTE office for the device Firmware upgrade ... they basically updated the BIOS ... and after that .. device got normal

[salmanghiyas]

i never said that this Router is not problematic ... YES the router is buggy on 3G .. and TP link know that .. but the problem "Bundu" was stating .. refers to some problem with the Modem not the Router ... thats what i was trying to say

[rodga]

what firmware are you on ?
make sure u are on the latest Firmware ... i:e Firmware Version: 3.12.21 Build 120523 Rel.37880n
is ur modem included in the compatible device list ? or u set it up manually in the router config ?

im using this firmware
3.12.21 Build 120508 Rel.52230n

[Bundu]

the latest fw is 3.12.21 Build 120523 Rel.37880n, but it does not indicate the modem model

[rodga]

the latest fw is 3.12.21 Build 120523 Rel.37880n, but it does not indicate the modem model

I have updated mine to the latest shortly after I posted last night

[OGroteKoning]

... they said u have to visit the ZTE office for the device Firmware upgrade...

Where is this ZTE office?

[salmanghiyas]

Where is this ZTE office?

I was talking about my country :) .. u'll have to search for yours

[rodga]

I was talking about my country :) .. u'll have to search for yours

maybe update your location in your profile

[salmanghiyas]

U might get help from your corresponding ISP .. as a matter of fact in my case they their self guided me about this ...

[flashsa]

Bought a version 2 MR3420 which I stuck a Cell C Hauwei 3G USB stick into. I am experiencing the same lockups. Have just updated to the latest firmware dated early Deceber 2012 and will see what happens going forward!

[Deezil]

I drilled holes in the top plastic cover (over the heatsink area) and it seems to be running a lot cooler now.

Still drops connection on the odd occasion but seems to recover on its own whereas in the past I had to manually restart.

[OGroteKoning]

I drilled holes in the top plastic cover (over the heatsink area) and it seems to be running a lot cooler now.

Still drops connection on the odd occasion but seems to recover on its own whereas in the past I had to manually restart.

Check my solution for my router that ran a bit too hot for my liking. I didn't have the disconnection problems with my RT-N66u as I did with the MR3420, but I still wanted it to run cooler
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?p=9418684

[Deezil]

Check my solution for my router that ran a bit too hot for my liking. I didn't have the disconnection problems with my RT-N66u as I did with the MR3420, but I still wanted it to run cooler
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?p=9418684

Hmmm laptop cooler ... interesting!

Wanted to cut a hole on top and mount a PC fan (splicing power from the standard walwart power supply) but luckily I only had a 120mm one available which was too big to fit easily (a 80mm will be perfect) so I settled for drilling holes ... which seems to be working well enough.

[redswan]

Hi Everyone

Just bumped to this thread last night and I want to share my experience and my MR3420 settings.

I bought one earlier this year (I believe it was v1.1 hardware, I forgot) and after upgrading the firmware to 110418 and adding modem bin file (mine is ZTE AC682) it worked almost flawlessly. Yes it was slow detecting my modem (2-3 minutes) but after that this router can stand up for days without lock up. My dad liked it a lot so I gave this to him, so this mr3420 is no longer with me today. :)

Two months ago I bought another MR3420 (v1.2 hardware), I upgraded the firmware to 125023 and add bin file to my AC682 modem. But this time router locked up quite frequently. First time it was like 5-6 hours before locking up, but last time it was like just 5 minute or less before it went locked up again. So it was getting worse and worse. Oh, and I'm not using the DDNS feature.

So then I tried several things to solve this, and I just found out that emptying the modem list seems making modem detection runs faster (less than 1 minute), it just says "identify successful" so I keep it like that. Strange but it works for me :)

And just like some of you I tried to tilt the router or even adding some laptop cooling fans under it to keep things cool (but wife just can't stand the fan noise so I get rid of it right away). Now I just flip it over upside down. So now it runs cooler and I can still see those indicator lights from afar. I also set my DNS to Comodo secure DNS (8.26.56.26 and 156.154.70.22), 11bg mixed mode. And now my MR3420 seems quite stable, already 4 hours straight without hiccups. I don't know which setting that makes it stable now but I'm quite happy with this. :)

http://i47.tinypic.com/idxffp.jpg

Hope this can help everyone :)

[rodga]

So then I tried several things to solve this, and I just found out that emptying the modem list seems making modem detection runs faster (less than 1 minute), it just says "identify successful" so I keep it like that. Strange but it works for me :)



how did you empty the modem list?

[redswan]

From left menu select Network > 3G > Scroll down, click Modem Settings button > Delete All (or click each listed modem delete link)

[OGroteKoning]

Can anyone please link/upload a Huawei K3772 modem bin file for a MR3420 V1. Thanks

[kytonpc]

new mr3420 firmware listed in November
Improved the compatibility

http://www.tp-link.com/Resources/software/TL-MR3420_V1_121123.zip

[OGroteKoning]

new mr3420 firmware listed in November
Improved the compatibility

http://www.tp-link.com/Resources/software/TL-MR3420_V1_121123.zip

Thanks mate. Bundu helped me out last week. I have loaded the firmware and now waiting for my sister to bring back her modem for me to test. If that fails I will get a K3715 and swop her and then get rid of this MR3420. Then it becomes her problem :D

[blaaislaai]

Firmware update helped for me, however my TD-8960N is bricked now and tossed it in the bin, after attempting to force-flash WRT firmware via telnet. :o

[sajunky]

Firmware update helped for me, however my TD-8960N is bricked now and tossed it in the bin, after attempting to force-flash WRT firmware via telnet. :o
It must be recovery procedure, usually boot block is preserved.

[maneshk]

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/498796-TP-Link-MR3420

Wish I had read this thread earlier. I would never have bought this product. I'm going to return this product next week and get my money back.

[kwaggawerner]

Just a heads up, my MR3220 seems to be more unstable with 121123 firmware, than all the previous firmwares, it loses connection every 15 to 60 minutes now. My MR3220 is only doing 3G, no Wifi, no DHCP server, no QSS or QOS, and no ACL.

I just turned mine upside down, let's see if that help, not that my router is hot, my 3G modem is also connected via a USB extender cable.

[sajunky]

If you use USB extension cable keep in mind it could be a reason for router instability. The best is to plug modem directly to the router. If any USB cable is used, it shouldn't be longer than 20cm, unless power is supplied to the modem by other means (not from router).

In other words, if you want move to modem to the better spot, move it tohether with the router. Use original power supply and power cable. Lenght of this cable is also critical. If cable is to short, use extension on 240V side, not a low voltage side.

[Bundu]

Just a heads up, my MR3220 seems to be more unstable with 121123 firmware, than all the previous firmwares, it loses connection every 15 to 60 minutes now. My MR3220 is only doing 3G, no Wifi, no DHCP server, no QSS or QOS, and no ACL.

I just turned mine upside down, let's see if that help, not that my router is hot, my 3G modem is also connected via a USB extender cable.

what modem are you using?

[kwaggawerner]

what modem are you using?

Huawei E367

[maneshk]

Hi Does the E367 work on the Vodacom Network?

[elf_lord_ZC5]

Hi Does the E367 work on the Vodacom Network?

Yes, it does

[maneshk]

I got an E367 with a MR3420. Latest firmware. So far it appears to be working well.
Thanks guys for posting your comments/experiences.
This was valuable information for me

[mozez]

I have finally decided to give up on this router (I have version 1).

Have been using it for the 3G connection about a year now and it keeps losing connectivity to the 3G stick (Huawei E1752). I've tried all sorts of permutations with the software but no luck. There are quiet a lot of hardware fixes proposed out there, from buying an external fan to getting a separate power supply for the router. These solutions work for some, for others not.

This router is quite reasonable from a price point of view but the frustration that comes with getting the bloody thing to work properly is just not worth that saving. I'm so pissed off at this router that I'm considering going wild and getting the Asus RT-N66U! The only thing holding me back though is how the 3G stability for that router is, not the price (+- R2400). Unfortunately most 3G router reviews out there don't focus too much on the 3G tests, they mainy focus on wired internet connections.

[flashsa]

I reached the same point last week. I was on my second swap-out version 2 and the thing just kept locking up and losing all WIFI signal at random.

On the advice of my retailer, I took it back and paid in on a Huawei B660 (RRP: R1200) which has now been up for half a week since first switch-on and I FINALLY have stable 3G/WIFI at home. The Hauwei has a built in 3G modem so I have stored my Cell C dongle for another day :)

[imranpanji]

I purchased this router a couple of months ago, and am really struggling with it.

Summary of problems. These occur between 2- 5 times a day:
1. Wifi disappears every so often, the only way to resolve it, is to power recycle
2. Wifi remains on, but no internet, even though the 3g modem is connected (solid light). So i log in via web interface,and disconnect and reconnect the 3g
3. When 2. occurs half the time, i cannot even browse to the web interface to check, or reboot the router, and so a power cycle the router.

I have tried 3 different 3g modems, the problems remain will all of them.
I have tried the latest firmware, the problems remain
Since this router is mounted at the highest point of my house (in the loft), getting out of bed at night in the cold to go and power cycle the router has become a little bit irritating

Has anyone else had issues with this router? My v.1 version of the router worked like a charm, but now its being used at a remote site, so cant get it back

[lotus123]

I purchased this router a couple of months ago, and am really struggling with it.

Summary of problems. These occur between 2- 5 times a day:
1. Wifi disappears every so often, the only way to resolve it, is to power recycle
2. Wifi remains on, but no internet, even though the 3g modem is connected (solid light). So i log in via web interface,and disconnect and reconnect the 3g
3. When 2. occurs half the time, i cannot even browse to the web interface to check, or reboot the router, and so a power cycle the router.

I have tried 3 different 3g modems, the problems remain will all of them.
I have tried the latest firmware, the problems remain
Since this router is mounted at the highest point of my house (in the loft), getting out of bed at night in the cold to go and power cycle the router has become a little bit irritating

Has anyone else had issues with this router? My v.1 version of the router worked like a charm, but now its being used at a remote site, so cant get it back

Might be worth trying the latest OpenWRT firmware for this router. My 3420v2 runs much better on this.
http://www.rfactory.org/OpenWRT/index.html

[imranpanji]

Might be worth trying the latest OpenWRT firmware for this router. My 3420v2 runs much better on this.
http://www.rfactory.org/OpenWRT/index.html

Thanks

Had downloaded this firmware already a few days ago, but since its only a couple of months old, i dont wanna lkill the warranty.
Will see what DBG has to say before trying anything

[imranpanji]

Might be worth trying the latest OpenWRT firmware for this router. My 3420v2 runs much better on this.
http://www.rfactory.org/OpenWRT/index.html

Update:

Jumped in with both feet, and now using Openwrt.

Seems to work ok so far, but for some reason am unable to load the speedtest.net website. It comes up with a blank page.
support.speedtest.net works ok, but the main www.speedtest.net fails. Would this be cause by some sort of firewall setting in the Openwrt firmware?

Will keep monitoring and hope it doesnt crash again

[flashsa]

Got tired of fighting with mine. Returned and paid in on a rock solid Huawei B660

I will never buy TP-Link again....

[imranpanji]

Got tired of fighting with mine. Returned and paid in on a rock solid Huawei B660

I will never buy TP-Link again....

We need a few routers for commercial use in remote locations.
This definitely has made me think twice about these routers

[Beachless]

Have you guys tried switching off mixed mode on the wifi and just use it on g or n depending on your devices?
Some routers just dont like it if you connect many devices on different modes.

[OGroteKoning]

Got tired of fighting with mine. Returned and paid in on a rock solid Huawei B660

I will never buy TP-Link again....

^^This
I swopped mine for 5 pockets of coffee

[mozez]

Have you guys tried switching off mixed mode on the wifi and just use it on g or n depending on your devices?
Some routers just dont like it if you connect many devices on different modes.

I was literally just about to dump this router but setting it to only work on "n" mode drastically improved its stability. I've been using it for a number of weeks now and ever since that change, it has pretty much been stable.

However, I don't think I'll buy another TP-link router again. The amount of headaches this router gave me before the above fix has really left me with a sour taste and bad first impression (this was my first router).

[ginggs]

We need a few routers for commercial use in remote locations.
MikroTik.

[Mike Smit]

I got a TP mainly for custom firmware. Flashed Gargoyle on mine and also ended up with having to reboot it every few hours. Went back to my Dell Gx280 running Kerio for a bit.

Last week I got my Asus RT-N66U and holy fsck. What a difference. Running Tomato on it. Preforms way better than my Dell ever could.

The TP Link is back on stock firmware and doing very well as a wireless access point in the house.

[imranpanji]

MikroTik.

For sure. Built my countrywide network using mikrotik, that was like 7 years ago, so very rusty on that
(not this country, a much smaller one)

[Base122]

Definitely go with the MikroTik.

I wasted so much time and money on the MR3420 and MR3220.
Tried many versions of firmware and all kinds of cooling fan tricks etc. to no avail.

In the end, lesson learned, no more TP Link for me.