The modern world is impossible without constant and reliable mobile communications. We use mobile devices not only for communication, but also for work, entertainment, and managing various aspects of our daily lives. However, the cellular signal is not always strong enough and stable everywhere. Problems with the quality of communication can arise both in large cities and in remote areas, which greatly complicates the performance of everyday tasks and reduces the quality of life. In such situations, mobile signal booster installation may be required.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Cellular Booster?
When figuring out how to choose a repeater, remember that it is a key element of the mobile signal amplification system. The outdoor antenna, through a high-frequency cable, supplies this device with a weak radio signal, which comes from the operator’s base station.
The main task of the booster is to improve the signal to a state comparable to being near the base station and transmit it via wire to the relay antenna. It uses the principle of a wifi signal to exchange information with a mobile phone and send it back to the base station. It doesn’t matter where the booster will be installed – in a house, office, or warehouse – the operating principle will be the same.
Signal Measurement
Before choosing a booster, you need to measure the signal. This can be done using a spectrum analyzer or special applications, but to avoid mistakes, it is better to entrust the procedure to specialists. If necessary, they can not only measure the signal but also completely organize the amplification system.
Difference Between Booster Models
Before buying a booster, you should understand what frequencies different generations of communication operate on. Different booster models are designed to work in certain ranges:
- 2G. The second generation of GSM signals, along with voice communication, gives users the opportunity to send text (SMS) and multimedia (MMS) messages. 2G operates in the 900 and 1800 MHz bands.
- 3G. This generation can provide users with access to high-speed Internet and voice radio communications at the same time. 3G operates in dual-frequency bands – 900 and 2100 MHz.
- 4G LTE. Initially, this generation gave users the opportunity to transfer Internet data at speeds of up to 1 Gbit/s, using base stations like a Wi-Fi router. Then the developers introduced VoLTE (voice over LTE) technology, which allows you to make calls on the 4G frequency, similar to WhatsApp. The fourth generation is located at frequencies of 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz.
Number of Bands Supported
Each generation of communication operates in a specific range. There are single-band repeaters, for example, operating exclusively at a frequency of 900 MHz. And there are multi-band ones, capable of working on several bands at once. For example, 3G at 2100 MHz and 4G at 2600 MHz. These are often installed in cars because they often change their location.
However, do not forget that the range is divided into a certain number of bands. When choosing a repeater, you need to consider how many bands it supports:
If you need to boost the signal of a specific operator, then a single-band booster is suitable. Such equipment operates only in one band and is capable of receiving radio signals from one provider. For example, a single-way amplifier may receive Vodafone well but not respond at all to EE.
If you are connected to different operators and need to strengthen them all, then choose a broadband repeater. This is a device capable of operating on all bands in a specific range.
There is another interesting type of booster. These devices allow users to select the desired band of a specific operator. When such a booster is tuned to the frequency of a specific provider, other signals are cut off and ignored to reduce the level of interference.
So, if you want to save money and buy a single-band amplifier, then it’s better not to risk it and buy a wideband model. It will accurately support your operator’s signal in a specific range.
But the ideal thing is to purchase a multi-band broadband or repeater that you can configure. It is guaranteed to support all bands.
Place of Use
If you need the simplest repeater for your home, then it is better to take an analog one. It is distinguished by its low price and reliability. It has a minimum of settings, but at the same time, it can maintain the normal functioning of the system. Adjustment and control on analog devices are located on their housings.
A digital device is suitable for shopping and business centers, large administrative buildings, and large industrial enterprises. This is a more complex booster, with advanced parameters, which has a high rating among users. It can be configured using the digital interface on the device itself and using a computer. Almost all digital boosters allow users to make separate settings for each operator.
For special objects and places with difficult terrain, an optical type repeater is required. This is a professional device that transmits data via a special fiber-optic cable. And this is how it differs from conventional amplifiers operating through coaxial wires. It ensures lossless transmission of information over a distance of up to 20 km from the receiving antenna to the distributing antenna.
Signal Gain Adjustment And Control
There are simple models on which the power is not manually adjusted. To make changes to their operation, a special device is used to change operating parameters.
And there are repeaters equipped with gain control systems: manual or automatic. Indicators on the first type are regulated by buttons, switches, etc. The second type prevents loopback in automatic mode.
In addition, before installing a mobile signal booster, you should pay attention to the resistance indicator, room area, and some other parameters.
Conclusion
Despite the rapid development of mobile network infrastructure, problems with signal quality still remain relevant for many users. Communication interruptions can appear both in megacities and remote rural areas and cause significant inconvenience, affecting our work, communication, and even safety. In such conditions, it is advisable to install a mobile signal repeater, which is best left to professionals. UCtel is a reliable company in the UK that specializes in providing services to improve 3G, 4G, and 5G communications of popular British mobile operators.