I have a GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 and try to connect a LTE USB stick for tethering. As it seems there is no power on the USB port. I also connected my smartphone with the same result.
The router is currently running in repeater mode, I already downloaded the latest update, etc…
Is this supposed to be a hardware failure? Or is there some software setting I have to change?
Hello,
It's definitely frustrating when your GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 isn't powering your USB devices for tethering! This is a common issue with these compact travel routers, and it's unlikely to be a hardware failure of the USB port itself.
Here's why, and what you can do:
The most common reason for "no power" on the USB port for tethering is insufficient power supply to the router itself.
The GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) is designed to be very portable and can be powered by various sources (laptop USB, power banks, standard 5V/2A DC adapters). However, it has a relatively low power consumption spec of less than 2.75W for the router itself. When you add a USB LTE stick or a smartphone for tethering, these devices draw additional power.
USB 2.0 ports (which the MT300N-V2 has) are typically rated to supply a maximum of 500mA (0.5A). Many LTE USB sticks, especially when actively seeking a signal or under heavy use, can draw more power than this. Smartphones also draw a significant amount of power for charging and data transfer.
Here's what you should check and try, starting with the most likely solutions:
Verify your router's power source:
Are you using a proper 5V/2A power adapter? If you're powering it from a laptop's USB port or a low-power USB charger, it might not be supplying enough current for both the router and the connected USB device.
Try a different, higher-amperage 5V/2A (or even slightly higher like 5V/2.4A) wall adapter. This is the most crucial step. A dedicated wall adapter is usually more reliable than a laptop port or a basic power bank.
Try a different USB cable. A poor-quality or damaged USB cable can also restrict power delivery.
Use a Powered USB Hub:
This is often the definitive solution for power-hungry USB devices with these routers. Connect your LTE USB stick or smartphone to a powered USB hub, and then connect the powered hub to the GL.iNet router's USB port. The hub will provide the necessary power to your USB device, taking the load off the router's USB port.
Check for specific software settings (less likely for "no power," but worth noting for tethering):
Ensure tethering is enabled on your smartphone: If you're trying to tether your smartphone, double-check that "Personal Hotspot" and "USB tethering" (or "USB network sharing") are enabled on your phone's settings. The GL.iNet router's web interface will prompt you to enable this.
Firmware: You mentioned you've updated to the latest firmware. While older firmware could have issues, it's less likely to be a "no power" issue and more likely a recognition or stability issue.
Try a different LTE USB stick or smartphone:
While you've tried both, there's a slim chance that a specific device might be drawing an unusual amount of power or has compatibility quirks.