How they work:
Typically a three-part system, cell phone signal boosters have two antennas and one amplifier. First, an exterior antenna serves to collect the cell phone service provider’s signal in an area where service is clear. The signal then travels across a piece of coaxial cabling to a surge protector and an amplifier where it can be boosted (if necessary). From there, a second piece of coaxial cable delivers the signal to an interior antenna which redistributes the cell signal to an area of the building which did not previously have cell coverage.
Assessing your need and Installation:
- Start with your exterior cell signal – what is the number of bars outside of the building? This can be easily measured by simply walking around the exterior of your building and looking at your cell phone. Consider all service providers that will be required.
- Determine where your signal is the strongest; this is where you will want to try to mount your exterior antenna. Consider access for the cabling required, height off of the ground so it is out of reach, etc.
- Measure the dimensions of the interior space you wish to have covered; you will need to calculate the area of coverage required (length multiplied by width).
- Contact a supplier (Teltek) to find the right product for your space.
- Consider expandability; do you want to cover one level of your office or the whole building? If your needs may change, ask for an expandable amplifier.
- Find the best location to place your interior antenna. It is recommended to be placed centrally in the area that you desire to have the most coverage. Omnidirectional interior antennas can be purchased for better coverage. Consider access for the cabling required, also you will need to have a physical separation in distance from the exterior antenna.
- Factor in the distance of the wire run from the outside antenna to the inside antenna (this will be needed when ordering your kit)
- Research any low voltage cabling codes in your area; in most commercial buildings, you will want to use plenum cables.
- Adjust your amplifier properly.
- Legal Issues – in most cases, signal boosters do not require carrier approval, however it is best to ensure that you are in compliance with the laws in your area.
The following features/providers are available but not supported with most models:
- Metro PCS and 4G is not supported
- Nextel
- Southern Link
- May be available in add-on services in the future
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