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Basics

Bands and
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Gain

Home and
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Pointing an
Antenna

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Frequently Asked
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Improving Reception in a Home or Office - Fixed Location

This is the section for improving reception in your home or office. Keep in mind that your frequency range doesn't change in this application since a structure is not mobile (like a car). You will need to know the frequency your phone(s) uses. If you need help determining your frequency go here.

Below you will find several common setups for improving reception in a fixed location. They are arranged from most expensive to least expensive. Use the links to get more info on each one.

Repeater Systems

A repeater system not only allows you to go without a wire, they allow many other users on the same carrier to enjoy the signal too! Believe it or not, these systems are more affordable and available than a few years ago. Great for large and small offices, home businesses, dorms and shops.

You will need:

You will need to know your frequency.

Cost: $399.00 and up

Go here for complete information on repeater systems

High Gain Antenna with Amplifier

This is an addition to the setup just above. You simply add an amplifier to increase power and reception.

You will need:

Must know your carrier's frequencies. Your phone must have an available antenna adapter. Cable is not included with this type of antenna and is ordered separately.

If you have fairly decent signal outside a Panel Antenna works well. If you have very weak signal Yagi and Grid antennas are available but require a mast and more accurate pointing due to their high gain and narrow beamwidth.

Dual Band Amplifier or Nextel Amplifier

Costs: $400.00 and up

Parts: (1) Antenna, (1) Adapter, (1) Cable and (1) Amplifier

High Gain Fixed Station Antennas

These setups increase weak signal by using high gain directional antennas directly attached to your phone via an adapter.

You will need:

Must know your carrier's frequencies unless the antenna is a Dual Band. Your phone must have an available antenna adapter. Cable is not included with this type of antenna and is ordered separately.

If you have fairly decent signal outside a Panel Antenna works well. If you have very weak signal Yagi and Grid antennas are available but require a mast and more accurate pointing due to their high gain and narrow beamwidth.

Costs: $125.00 and up

Parts: (1) Antenna, (1) Adapter and (1) Cable.

External Mobile Antenna Solution

This setup increases signal by using a higher gain mag mount antenna that is attached to your phone. Since this is a Dual Band mag mount antenna you do not need to know the frequency range.

You will need:

Some signal inside your building. If not it will have to be placed outside. It always needs a ground plane. Your phone also has to have the ability to use an external antenna via an adapter.

This setup is unique in that it can also be used on your vehicle to improve reception on the road.

Cost: $45.00 and up

Parts: (1) Mag Mount Antenna (1) Antenna Adapter

I don't want a wire attached to my phone! Can't I just hook-up two antennas together?

Passive Repeater

You might think this would work but IT DOESN'T.

There is too little power from the phone and too much loss trying to span the gaps. It's kinda like plugging a power strip into itself.

See above for the completely "wireless" solution.

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