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How to Maximize Your Cell Signal Repeater Performance
October 13, 2023
Whether you’ve just installed a cellular repeater system or you’re troubleshooting coverage issues, sometimes getting the best possible signal strength requires a few adjustments. Even well-designed systems need proper optimization to deliver peak performance. Our comprehensive guide shares tips, methods, and best practices for ensuring consistent coverage throughout your space.Use High-Quality Cable
Some kits offer everything you need, but they may not necessarily include the best cabling option. The wrong type of cable or cable of low quality can contribute to signal loss. For example, RG-6 cable is a better choice than RG-59-Mini, and LMR-400 cable is superior to RG-58 cable. When it comes to WilsonPro kits, 1/2″ coax (.500″ coax) is the best cable for cellular repeater system installs.Use Shorter Cable Lengths
When running the cable for installation, be sure to measure effectively and use the shortest possible length. Signal loss and degradation worsen with cable length.Maintain Space Between Donor and Broadcast Antennas
If both antennas are too close together, there’s a good chance the signal will end up oscillating. In other words, a feedback loop may be created. If the installation can’t accommodate adequate space between the antennas, consider installing a shield between them to prevent antenna cross-talk.Plan on Additional Broadcast Antennas
Larger commercial buildings, especially ones with multiple levels, will likely require multiple broadcast antennas to provide an adequate signal to every location within. In some instances, installers can use a splitter and run a cable to additional broadcast antennas to help accommodate coverage. Keep in mind, however, that splitting the cable also effectively splits the signal, so use them wisely.
Understand Signal Frequencies
When first starting a signal repeater installation, it’s important to pay close attention to cellular carrier frequencies. Some repeaters only enhance signal for specific carriers, so the problem might be that the device doesn’t benefit from that particular technology.A good way to check for this is by doing a thorough site survey with a signal meter or Cellular Network Scanner. Doing so can also provide details on which carrier’s signals are available and where they’re coming from. In some situations, commercial buildings may only need a repeater for one specific carrier, but this is rare.Other repeaters are capable of providing signals to all devices, regardless of frequency and carrier. These are referred to as carrier-agnostic repeaters. In most commercial settings, there are multiple people coming to and from the building each day. Faculty, staff, students, customers, clients — there will be a variety of people using devices across several different carriers. Because of this, it’s a good idea to choose a repeater that works on all carriers.Choose the Right Antenna
The antenna used in a cell signal repeater system is typically referred to as a donor antenna. It’s the component that communicates with the cell tower—capturing overhead signal and transmitting it to an amplifier. Most of these are stand-alone antennas, and they’re connected to the repeater by coaxial cable.Picking the right antenna from the beginning means the difference between a painful installation and a flawless one. To that end, there are two antenna types for most commercial cell phone repeater installations:- Directional antennas are designed to point directly at a cell tower, receiving signals from one direction. This type of antenna is best used in instances where the signal outside of the building is either too weak or too strong. If signal strength for the installation is below -80dBm or over -45dBm, consider using a directional antenna.
- Omnidirectional antennas receive cell signals from all directions. In situations where the signal outside the building is sufficient, an omnidirectional antenna is the best option. These antennas are especially useful in situations where the building is obstructing signal. As such, they’re often the best choice for commercial repeater installs.