Have you ever experienced poor cellular reception, where your calls get dropped, or your internet connection becomes frustratingly slow? If yes, then you’re not alone. Poor cellular reception can be caused by several factors, including distance from the nearest cell tower, interference from other electronic devices, and even the materials used in your building’s construction.
Thankfully, signal boosters can help improve your cellular reception by amplifying weak signals and rebroadcasting them to your device. However, to get the most out of your signal booster, you need to position it correctly using a harvesting tool. In this article, we’ll discuss how to position signal boosters using your harvesting tool for optimal performance.
What is a Signal Booster?
A signal booster is a device that improves cellular reception by boosting weak signals and rebroadcasting them to your device. It consists of three main components: an outside antenna that captures weak signals, an amplifier that boosts these signals, and an inside antenna that rebroadcasts the amplified signals to your device.
Signal boosters are available in different types and sizes depending on their coverage area. Some are designed for use in vehicles while others are intended for use in buildings. Regardless of the type you choose, proper positioning is critical to ensuring optimal performance.
Using Your Harvesting Tool
A harvesting tool is a device used to measure signal strength and identify the best location for placing your signal booster’s antennas. There are different types of harvesting tools available in the market today, but they all work similarly.
To use a harvesting tool:
1. Place the outside antenna at a potential installation point.
2. Connect the harvesting tool to the outside antenna via a cable.
3. Turn on the harvesting tool and note down the signal strength reading.
4. Move the outside antenna to another potential installation point and repeat the process until you find the location with the strongest signal.
5. Install your signal booster at this location.
It’s essential to note that the harvesting tool should be used to test multiple potential installation points, not just one. This will ensure that you find the location with the best possible signal strength.
Positioning Your Signal Boosters
Now that you know how to use a harvesting tool let’s discuss how to position your signal boosters for optimal performance. Here are some tips:
1. Position the Outside Antenna Properly
The outside antenna is responsible for capturing weak signals and transmitting them to the amplifier. Therefore, its positioning is critical to ensuring optimal performance. Ideally, it should be placed in an area where there is good signal strength, away from other electronic devices that could cause interference.
If you’re using a directional outside antenna, point it towards the nearest cell tower for maximum signal capture. If you’re using an omni-directional antenna, position it vertically for better coverage.
2. Place the Amplifier Close to the Inside Antenna
The amplifier should be installed near the inside antenna to minimize cable loss and maximize signal strength. A shorter cable run between these two components reduces attenuation and ensures that most of the amplified signal reaches your device.
3. Avoid Placing Your Signal Booster Near Other Electronic Devices
Other electronic devices such as Wi-Fi routers, TVs, and microwaves can interfere with your signal booster’s performance by creating electromagnetic interference (EMI). Therefore, it’s essential to place your signal booster away from these devices or shield it from EMI sources.
4. Ensure There Is Enough Separation Between the Outside and Inside Antennas
To avoid feedback loops and oscillations, there should be enough separation between the outside and inside antennas. At least 20 feet of vertical separation or 50 feet of horizontal separation is recommended.
5. Follow Local Building Codes and Regulations
Before installing your signal booster, ensure that you’re following local building codes and regulations. Some areas have restrictions on the placement of outside antennas, and failure to comply could result in hefty fines.
Conclusion
Properly positioning your signal booster using a harvesting tool is critical to ensuring optimal performance. By following the tips discussed in this article, you can improve your cellular reception and enjoy uninterrupted calls and faster internet speeds.
Remember, different types of signal boosters require different installation procedures. Therefore, it’s essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before installing your signal booster.
References:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signal_booster
2. https://www.fcc.gov/general/cellular-signal-boosters
3. https://www.signalbooster.com/blogs/news/how-to-properly-install-a-cell-phone-signal-booster
