Poor signal reception on roads, especially in rural areas, is a problem familiar to many motorists. In most cases, it is solved simply by installing a mobile signal booster in the car.
What Is a Mobile Signal Booster for Cars and How Does It Work?
A mobile signal amplifier is a device that provides high-quality connection to the driver and passengers in conditions of poor cellular coverage.
Besides the amplifier itself, external and internal antennas are required for the device to work. The external antenna catches the signal from the nearest base station. The internal antenna in the cabin is necessary to transmit an amplified signal to the mobile phones in the car. Both antennas are connected to the booster, which is powered by 12 Volts from a cigarette lighter.
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How to Choose a Mobile Signal Booster for Cars ?
To begin with, the frequency band is important. For different types of signal different bands are used. As an example, 2G is transmitted at 900 or 1800 MHz, and 800, 2600 MHz, etc. are used for 4G. Depending on its technical specifications, the car amplifier improves the signal of a carrier at a specific frequency band. A single-band booster picks up one frequency, while dual-, triple-, quad- or five-band models improve reception at two or more frequencies. Multiband repeaters are suitable if you need to enhance several types of signals simultaneously, or if you use different carriers. Pay attention that most boosters can support multiple operators.
It is also important to consider the gain of the amplifier. The weaker the external signal, the higher the gain should be. To find out the signal strength, you can use the Network Cell Info Lite mobile application for Android or OpenSignal for iOS. These or similar apps can be useful after installing the booster to see how much the signal has improved.
It is advisable to look out for such features as automatic gain control (AGC) to avoid interference with the operator's network and LCD screen to show the details of repeater functioning.
One of the most popular booster models, Nikrans LCD–GL-Drive, has all of the above characteristics. This dual-band amplifier improves GSM and 4G signals at 900 and 800 MHz. It also has a compact design making it easy for the installation in the car.
Step by Step Installation Guide
When placing the amplifying equipment, you should follow some general rules. First, handle the booster and antennas gently so as not to damage them. All components must then be securely fastened so that they do not detach during driving. Cables should not be located where they may disturb driving or passenger comfort.
Step 1: Install the External Antenna
Place the magnetically attached antenna on the roof of the car, preferably at the back and away from other automobile equipment. The mounting accessories for the external antenna are included into all Nikrans booster kits.
Some modern cars have a roof made of composite materials or aluminum. In this case, you should search for some other ways to attach the external antenna, for example, with the help of a double-sided adhesive tape.
Step 2: Running the Cable to the Booster
The external antenna is joined to the amplifier with the cable. It can be pulled along the vehicle side and slipped through a door or window or under the door seal.
You should avoid sharp bends in the cable as this can damage it. Keep the cable away from moving parts and sharp elements of the vehicle. It is essential that the cable is securely fastened, you can use cable clamps or cable ties for this purpose.
Step 3. Installing a Booster
First of all, choose a place for the booster inside the car. It is usually under the seat or close to the front console. The selected location must have sufficient ventilation and not be exposed to heat and direct sunlight.
Step 4. Connecting the Internal Antenna
The optimal place for even signal distribution inside is next to or on the dashboard. You should make sure that the internal antenna and its cable do not disturb driving. In the models of the LCD line, where the antenna is attached directly to the booster box, its installation is not required.
Step 5: Turning on the Booster
After you have installed the booster, make sure all connections are tight and correct (BS/Outdoor for the outdoor cable and MS/Indoor for the indoor antenna/cable). Then connect the device to the cigarette lighter and switch it on. The NS amplifier models are turned on with the On/OFF button. You will see a red light near the ISO on the screen, which means that the device automatically adjusts and checks the insulation. If everything is in order, then the red light changes to green after 1-2 seconds. The LCD repeaters begin to work immediately when they are connected to the network.
Having installed the booster, check periodically that the power connection is secure.
Conclusion
Mobile signal booster in a car increases the comfort of the driver and the passengers. For camping lovers, it is just a must. Installing the device is not difficult, and users easily do it themselves. But if necessary, our specialists will be glad to help you and consult you over the phone, email or online chat.
