In an era where enterprise branches, retail locations, and mobile field teams demand always-on 5G connectivity without the complexity of rack-mounted hardware, the ZBT Z8116AX-DS offers a compelling answer. Powered by the MediaTek MT7981B dual-core processor and equipped with dual self-ejecting SIM slots, this ultra-compact 5G router delivers Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 performance and flexible USB-C power in a pocket-sized form factor purpose-built for professional deployments.
Why Compact 5G Routers Are Redefining Branch Connectivity
Traditional enterprise branch routers are over-engineered for the modern distributed workforce. As businesses expand into smaller retail branches, pop-up sites, vehicles, and remote offices, the need for a reliable, portable 5G WAN device with built-in Wi-Fi has grown rapidly. The Z8116AX-DS was designed precisely for this gap — delivering carrier-grade 5G uplink and Wi-Fi 6 distribution in a device no larger than a deck of cards.
With dual SIM slots supporting SIM/USIM formats and multi-band 5G compatibility (X62 modem architecture), the Z8116AX-DS keeps enterprise teams connected across virtually every major cellular network worldwide.
Hardware Architecture: MT7981B at the Core
The Z8116AX-DS is built on the MediaTek MT7981B ARM Cortex-A53 Dual Core CPU running at 1.3GHz, paired with the MT7976CN Wi-Fi chipset. This platform delivers hardware-accelerated NAT routing and efficient multi-client Wi-Fi scheduling — critical for deployments where 5G cellular ingress and local Wi-Fi distribution must run concurrently at full throughput.
With 1GB DDR4 RAM and 128MB SPI NAND Flash, the Z8116AX-DS supports stable long-running sessions, complex routing configurations, and OpenWrt-based custom firmware — making it a solid foundation for OEM and system integrator builds.
Interface & Connectivity at a Glance
Designed for Real-World Mobile & Branch Deployment Scenarios
The Z8116AX-DS is not a home router with a SIM tray. It is a compact enterprise CPE designed to be deployed in environments where permanent infrastructure is unavailable, impractical, or too costly — and where uptime is mission-critical.
- Retail Branch & Pop-Up Stores: Power the Z8116AX-DS from a USB-C adapter behind the counter — no electrician required. Dual-SIM ensures POS systems and staff devices stay online even if one carrier experiences an outage.
- Mobile Workforce & Field Teams: Compact form factor fits in a laptop bag or vehicle glove box. USB-C power bank compatibility means truly untethered 5G Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for field engineers and mobile sales teams.
- Vehicle & Transport Deployments: Deploy in fleet vehicles, delivery vans, or passenger transport. The USB-C power input works with 12V vehicle USB adapters, and the ruggedized dual-SIM design handles network handoffs across coverage zones.
- Temporary Site & Event Connectivity: Construction sites, event venues, and temporary offices can be connected within minutes — insert SIMs, power via USB-C, and distribute Wi-Fi 6 to dozens of simultaneous clients.
- ODM / OEM Custom Integration: ZBT's open platform supports white-label branding, custom firmware, and carrier-locked configurations — ideal for system integrators and ISPs delivering managed CPE services.
The ZBT Platform Advantage
ZBT has delivered 5G CPE and Wi-Fi solutions to carriers, enterprises, and system integrators across 60+ countries. The Z8116AX-DS is built on the same trusted ODM platform — combining MediaTek's proven chipset architecture with ZBT's manufacturing quality, direct procurement support, and volume pricing for B2B buyers worldwide.
Procurement & Integration
The Z8116AX-DS is available for direct B2B purchase with volume pricing tiers, flexible NET payment terms for qualified buyers, and dedicated pre-sales technical support. ZBT's engineering team provides full datasheet packages, modem compatibility lists, firmware customization scoping, and integration assistance for enterprise and ODM/OEM procurement workflows.
Sample units are available for qualified evaluations. Lead time, MOQ, and white-label configuration options are available on request.
Ready to Deploy the Z8116AX-DS?
Talk to our enterprise sales team about pricing, sample units, and ODM/OEM customization options.
Contact Our Sales Team →