2G (Second Generation Mobile Networks)

2G refers to the second generation of mobile network technology, introduced in the early 1990s. It marked a significant advancement over the earlier 1G networks by enabling digital communication, which improved call quality and allowed for new services such as text messaging (SMS) and basic data services like picture messaging (MMS). 2G networks operate primarily on GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) standards, providing better security and spectrum efficiency compared to analog 1G networks. Although largely superseded by 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies, 2G networks are still in use in some parts of the world, especially for basic communication and IoT (Internet of Things) devices.

3G (Third Generation Mobile Networks)

3G represents the third generation of mobile network technology, introduced in the early 2000s. It significantly improved upon 2G by offering faster data speeds, making it possible to access the internet, stream audio and video, and use GPS navigation on mobile devices. 3G networks support technologies like UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) and CDMA2000, providing data transfer rates of up to several megabits per second. This leap in speed and capability laid the foundation for the mobile internet and smartphone revolution. Although now being phased out in many areas in favor of 4G and 5G networks, 3G still serves as a fallback in regions with limited 4G coverage.

4G (Fourth Generation Mobile Networks)

4G is the fourth generation of mobile network technology, launched in the late 2000s. It marked a major improvement over 3G, offering significantly faster data speeds and lower latency, enabling high-definition video streaming, video conferencing, and fast mobile web browsing. The most common 4G standard is LTE (Long Term Evolution), which provides data transfer rates up to 100 Mbps or higher under optimal conditions. 4G networks also support advanced features like VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which enhances call quality and allows for simultaneous voice and data usage. While 5G is beginning to roll out globally, 4G remains the dominant mobile network standard, providing robust coverage and reliable performance for millions of users worldwide.

4G LTE (Long Term Evolution)

4G LTE is the most widely used standard within the fourth generation of mobile network technology (4G). Introduced in the late 2000s, LTE significantly boosts data speeds and reduces latency compared to earlier technologies like 3G. It enables high-speed internet access on mobile devices, supporting activities like HD video streaming, online gaming, and fast web browsing. LTE offers theoretical download speeds up to 300 Mbps and upload speeds up to 75 Mbps, though real-world speeds vary depending on factors like network congestion and signal strength. LTE also supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which provides higher-quality voice calls and allows simultaneous use of voice and data services. As the foundation of 4G networks, LTE remains essential for mobile connectivity, even as 5G technology begins to roll out globally.

5G (Fifth Generation Mobile Networks)

5G is the fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering drastically improved speeds, lower latency, and higher capacity compared to 4G. Introduced in the late 2010s, it supports ultra-fast download speeds over 1 Gbps, enabling seamless streaming, real-time AR/VR experiences, and advanced IoT applications. Operating across low, mid, and high-frequency bands, 5G enhances connectivity for a wide range of devices and applications, paving the way for innovations in smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and more.

5G NR (New Radio)

The global standard for 5G networks, offering higher speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity compared to previous generations. Some signal boosters are now being designed to support 5G NR frequencies.

Access Point Name (APN)

A setting on mobile devices that specifies the gateway between a cellular network and the internet. Boosters need to ensure that they do not interfere with APN settings.

Active DAS

A more complex system than passive DAS, using amplifiers and fiber optic cables to distribute cellular signals over large areas, like stadiums or airports. Signal boosters can sometimes integrate with active DAS systems.

AGC (Automatic Gain Control)

A feature in amplifiers that automatically adjusts the gain to maintain a constant output signal level despite variations in input signal strength.

Amplifier

The component of a signal booster that increases the strength of the received signal, allowing it to be rebroadcasted inside the coverage area.

Antenna

A device that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves. In the context of signal boosters, there are typically two types:

  • External Antenna: Installed outside the building or vehicle to capture the cell signal from the nearest cell tower.
  • Internal Antenna: Distributes the boosted signal within the building or vehicle.

Antenna Gain

A measure of how well an antenna can focus energy in a specific direction, compared to a standard reference (usually an isotropic radiator). Higher antenna gain can improve the performance of a signal booster by better capturing or distributing signals.

Antenna Polarization

The orientation of the electromagnetic wave emitted by an antenna. Signal boosters need to be compatible with the polarization of the antennas used by the network.

Attenuation

The reduction in signal strength as it travels through a medium, such as walls or buildings. Signal boosters help to overcome this by amplifying the weakened signal.

Attenuator

A device that reduces the power of a signal without distorting its waveform. Attenuators are sometimes used in signal booster systems to decrease the signal strength if it’s too strong, preventing overload.

Automatic Gain Control (AGC)

A feature in some signal boosters that automatically adjusts the amplifier’s gain to prevent the boosted signal from being too strong, which could cause interference with the network or other devices.

Backhaul

The connection between a cell tower and the core network, often via fiber or microwave links. While not directly related to boosters, backhaul capacity can impact overall network performance.

Bandwidth

The range of frequencies that a signal booster can amplify. This is important for ensuring that the booster works with various carriers and signal types.

Base Station

The cell tower or network node that communicates with mobile devices. Signal boosters help by improving communication between the base station and the mobile device.

Beamforming

A technique used in advanced antennas and some signal boosters where the direction of the signal is adjusted dynamically to focus on the intended receiver, improving signal strength and reducing interference.

BSIC (Base Station Identity Code)

A code used in GSM networks to identify a specific cell and avoid confusion between nearby cells. Signal boosters should handle BSIC information correctly to avoid interference.

BTS (Base Transceiver Station)

The component of a cell tower responsible for transmitting and receiving radio signals to and from mobile devices. Signal boosters enhance communication with BTS units.

Carrier Aggregation

A technique in LTE-Advanced and 5G where multiple frequency bands are combined to increase data speeds. Boosters must support carrier aggregation to optimize throughput.

Carrier Frequency

The specific frequency band used by a cellular network to transmit and receive signals. Boosters need to be designed to operate within the carrier frequencies used by the network.

Carrier

A telecommunications company that provides cellular network services (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile). Signal boosters need to be compatible with the specific frequencies used by the carrier.

Carrier-Specific Booster

A signal booster designed to work with a single carrier’s network frequencies. These can offer higher performance for users loyal to one carrier, as opposed to multi-carrier (wideband) boosters.

Carrier-to-Interference Ratio (CIR)

The ratio of the signal’s carrier strength to the level of interference. Higher CIR indicates a cleaner signal, which boosters help achieve by reducing interference.

CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)

A channel access method used by various radio communication technologies, allowing multiple signals to occupy a single transmission channel. Some signal boosters are designed to enhance CDMA signals, although this is more relevant in regions where CDMA networks are still in use.

CE Marking

In Europe, the CE mark indicates that a signal booster complies with EU regulations for safety, health, and environmental protection. Look for this marking when purchasing a booster in Europe.

Cell Edge

The outer boundary of a cell tower’s coverage area, where the signal is weakest. Signal boosters are particularly useful in these areas to improve signal strength and reliability.

Cell Site

The physical location of a cell tower and its associated equipment. Boosters must be installed correctly to work with the specific cell site’s signal.

Cell Splitting

The process of dividing a cell’s coverage area into smaller cells to increase capacity and reduce congestion. Boosters can help improve signal coverage within smaller cells.

Cell Tower Backhaul

The connection between the cell tower and the core network, often via fiber optic cables or microwave links. While not directly related to the booster itself, understanding backhaul can help in diagnosing why a strong signal might still lead to poor performance (e.g., network congestion).

Cellular Band

Specific ranges of frequencies allocated for cellular communication. Boosters are designed to amplify signals within certain bands (e.g., 700 MHz, 1800 MHz) to ensure compatibility with various network frequencies.

Choosing the Right Booster

  • Application-Specific Boosters: Different environments require different types of boosters (e.g., home vs. vehicle vs. large commercial spaces). Choose a booster designed for your specific application.
  • Carrier Compatibility: Ensure the booster supports the frequency bands used by your mobile carrier, especially if you’re in an area served by multiple carriers.

Coaxial Cable (Coax Cable)

A type of cable used to transmit RF signals between the antenna and the amplifier in a signal booster system. The quality and length of the coaxial cable can affect signal strength and overall performance.

CPICH (Common Pilot Channel)

A channel in UMTS networks used for providing synchronization and channel estimation. Signal boosters must avoid disrupting CPICH transmissions.

CQI (Channel Quality Indicator)

A measure reported by a mobile device to indicate the quality of the communication channel. Signal boosters can help improve CQI by enhancing overall signal quality.

CQI (Channel Quality Indicator)

A metric used in LTE and 5G to assess the quality of the communication channel. Boosters improve CQI by enhancing overall signal strength.

CQI (Channel Quality Indicator)

A metric used to report the quality of the communication channel in LTE and 5G networks. Boosters improve CQI by enhancing signal strength and quality.

C-RAN (Cloud Radio Access Network)

A network architecture where baseband processing is centralized and virtualized. Signal boosters must be compatible with C-RAN to support modern network deployments.

Crossover Interference

Interference that occurs when signals from adjacent frequency bands overlap. Signal boosters must be designed to minimize crossover interference to ensure clean amplification of the intended signals.

Cross-Polarization

A technique used to reduce interference by aligning antennas to different polarizations. In advanced signal booster setups, cross-polarization can improve signal clarity.

DAS (Distributed Antenna System)

A network of antennas connected to a central base station to improve coverage and capacity in large or complex environments. Signal boosters can be integrated into a DAS to enhance overall network performance.

dB (Decibel)

A unit of measurement for signal strength. Signal boosters often describe their performance in terms of dB gain, which indicates how much they can amplify a signal.

dBm (Decibel-milliwatts)

A unit of measurement for signal strength relative to 1 milliwatt of power. It is used to quantify the power level of the cell signal, and signal boosters often specify their output in dBm.

Directional Antenna

An antenna that focuses its reception or transmission in a specific direction, often used to target a distant cell tower more effectively.

Distributed Antenna System (DAS)

A network of antennas connected to a common source, used to distribute mobile signal throughout a large building or area. Signal boosters can be part of a DAS to enhance signal coverage.

Donor Antenna

Another term for the external antenna that receives the initial signal from the cell tower. It’s called a “donor” because it provides the signal that the booster amplifies.

DRX (Discontinuous Reception)

A power-saving feature in LTE that allows devices to periodically sleep to conserve battery. Signal boosters must support DRX to avoid disrupting power-saving modes.

Dual-Band/Triple-Band/Wideband

Refers to signal boosters that can amplify two, three, or a wide range of frequency bands. This is important for compatibility with multiple carriers and signal types, such as 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G.

Dual-Band

A signal booster that supports two frequency bands, usually covering the basic needs for most voice and data services.

Edge of Cell (EoC)

A concept describing the areas at the very limit of a cell tower’s coverage. Signal boosters are crucial in these regions to stabilize weak and unreliable connections.

Education and Resources

  • User Manuals: Always refer to the user manual provided by the manufacturer for specific installation and usage guidelines.
  • Online Forums and Support: Participate in online communities or forums related to signal boosters for tips, troubleshooting, and product recommendations.

EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power)

The total power radiated by an antenna in a specific direction, including the gain of the antenna. Signal boosters need to manage EIRP to comply with regulatory limits and optimize performance.

eNB (Evolved NodeB)

The base station in an LTE network responsible for communication with mobile devices. Signal boosters help improve communication between eNBs and devices.

Environmental Considerations

  • Climate Considerations: In extreme climates, choose weatherproof external antennas and enclosures designed to withstand heat, cold, moisture, or UV exposure.
  • Urban vs. Rural: In urban areas, the challenge is often interference from many signals, while in rural areas, it’s the distance from cell towers. Select a booster designed to address the specific challenges of your location.

Environmental Factors

Weather, terrain, and building materials can all affect signal strength. Metal, concrete, and energy-efficient glass are particularly challenging for signals to penetrate. Understanding these factors can help you choose the right equipment and placement.

Evolved Packet Core (EPC)

The core network architecture used in LTE that handles data and voice traffic. Signal boosters enhance connectivity between the mobile device and EPC by improving signal strength.

External Antenna

The antenna placed outside a building or vehicle to capture the existing cell signal. It plays a crucial role in the performance of a signal booster system.

FCC Approval

In the United States, signal boosters must be approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. Always check for FCC approval when purchasing a booster.

FDD (Frequency Division Duplex)

A method used in mobile communication where separate frequencies are used for uplink and downlink, allowing simultaneous transmission and reception. Signal boosters must be designed to handle FDD to avoid interference and ensure proper functioning.

FD-LTE (Frequency Division Long-Term Evolution)

The standard LTE system that uses frequency division duplexing. Signal boosters need to support FD-LTE to ensure compatibility with traditional LTE networks.

Femtocell

A small, low-power cellular base station, typically used to extend coverage indoors or in areas with weak mobile signals. While femtocells serve a similar purpose as signal boosters by improving signal strength, they work differently by creating a new, localized cell rather than amplifying existing signals.

FR1 (Frequency Range 1)

Refers to the frequency range from 450 MHz to 6 GHz used for 5G NR (New Radio) networks. Signal boosters need to support FR1 bands to enhance 5G coverage.

FR2 (Frequency Range 2)

Refers to the frequency range from 24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz used for higher-frequency 5G NR networks. Boosters for FR2 bands are crucial for high-capacity 5G deployments.

Frequency Bands

The specific ranges of frequencies over which mobile communication occurs. Common bands include:

  • 700 MHz (Band 12/17)
  • 800 MHz (Band 5)
  • 1900 MHz (Band 2/25)
  • 2100 MHz (Band 4/66)

Frequency Hopping

A technique where the transmission frequency changes rapidly to avoid interference and improve security. Boosters must accommodate frequency hopping to ensure reliable communication.

Frequency Reuse

A technique where the same frequency bands are used in different geographic areas to increase capacity. Signal boosters need to handle frequency reuse efficiently to avoid interference.

Fresnel Zone

The elliptical area around the line of sight between a transmitter and receiver that must remain clear of obstructions to avoid signal degradation. Signal boosters help mitigate issues related to Fresnel zone interference.

Future-Proofing

With the ongoing rollout of 5G, consider investing in a signal booster that supports 5G bands, or at least one that can be upgraded in the future.

Gain

The measure of amplification a booster provides, typically expressed in dB. Higher gain means a stronger boost to the signal.

gNB (gNodeB)

The base station in a 5G NR network. Similar to eNB, gNBs are crucial for 5G communications, and signal boosters need to be compatible with the frequencies used by gNBs.

GSCN (Global Synchronization Channel Number)

A reference used in 4G LTE and 5G NR to uniquely identify a specific cell. It’s important for devices to correctly identify and connect to the right cell, especially in areas with multiple overlapping cells.

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications)

A standard for mobile communication used worldwide, particularly for voice and SMS services. Many signal boosters are compatible with GSM networks to improve coverage for voice calls.

Handover

The process of transferring a mobile device’s connection from one cell tower to another as the user moves. Effective signal boosters minimize disruption during handovers.

Handset Booster

A smaller, portable signal booster designed to directly boost the signal to a single mobile device, often used in vehicles or remote areas.

HSPA (High-Speed Packet Access)

An enhancement to 3G networks providing higher data speeds. Some older signal boosters may need to support HSPA for compatibility with 3G networks.

HSPA+ (Evolved High-Speed Packet Access)

An enhancement of HSPA that provides even higher data speeds. Signal boosters that support HSPA+ can improve data performance in 3G networks.

Impedance

The resistance of a circuit to alternating current, measured in ohms. In signal booster systems, matching the impedance of the antenna, cable, and amplifier is important to maximize signal transmission and minimize loss.

Indoor Coverage Area

The area inside a building or vehicle where the boosted signal is effective. This varies depending on the strength of the outside signal and the power of the booster.

Installation Height

Refers to the height at which the external antenna is installed. Higher installation heights typically result in better signal reception, as there are fewer obstacles between the antenna and the cell tower.

Installation Tips

  • Antenna Placement: The external antenna should be placed as high as possible and pointed towards the nearest cell tower for the best reception. The internal antenna should be centrally located to maximize coverage.
  • Cable Length: Use the shortest possible coaxial cables to minimize signal loss, but ensure there’s enough separation between the external and internal antennas to avoid oscillation.

Interference

Unwanted signals that disrupt communication, often caused by overlapping frequencies or inadequate isolation between antennas. Proper installation and equipment selection help minimize interference.

Internal Antenna

The antenna inside a building or vehicle that rebroadcasts the amplified signal. Its placement affects the coverage area and signal distribution.

IoT (Internet of Things)

A network of physical devices, vehicles, and other objects embedded with sensors and software that connect and exchange data over the internet. Signal boosters that support IoT ensure that all connected devices in a smart home or caravan maintain a reliable connection.

Isolation

The separation between the external and internal antennas to prevent feedback loops (oscillation). Proper isolation is crucial for the effective operation of a signal booster.

Latency

The delay between sending and receiving data. Boosters can help reduce latency by improving signal strength and quality, especially in high-speed applications.

Legal and Ethical Use

  • Respecting Neighbors: In densely populated areas, ensure that your signal booster does not cause interference with neighboring signals. Proper installation and regulation-compliant devices help prevent issues.
  • Boosting Public Safety Signals: Some boosters are designed to amplify public safety signals (e.g., for first responders). Ensure you have the correct type of booster for this critical application and that it’s installed according to local regulations.

Lightning Surge Protector

A device used to protect the signal booster system from voltage spikes due to lightning strikes. It’s often installed in-line with the coaxial cable running from the external antenna.

Line of Sight (LOS)

The direct path between the signal booster’s external antenna and the cell tower. Having a clear LOS generally results in better signal reception and amplification.

LNA (Low Noise Amplifier)

An amplifier designed to boost weak signals without adding significant noise. LNAs are often used in conjunction with signal boosters to improve overall system performance.

Load Balancing

Distributing network traffic across multiple cell towers or channels to optimize performance. Boosters support load balancing by ensuring consistent signal strength.

LOS (Line-of-Sight)

A direct, unobstructed path between the transmitting and receiving antennas. Signal boosters perform optimally in LOS conditions, but they also need to handle NLOS scenarios effectively.

Low-PIM Cable

Cables designed to minimize Passive Intermodulation (PIM), which can cause signal degradation. Low-PIM cables are used in high-performance signal booster systems to maintain signal integrity.

LPDA (Log-Periodic Dipole Array)

LPDA stands for Log-Periodic Dipole Array, a type of antenna used to receive and transmit signals over a wide frequency range. It consists of a series of dipole elements arranged in a specific pattern that allows the antenna to maintain consistent performance across different frequencies. LPDA antennas are known for their wide bandwidth, directional gain, and ability to handle multiple frequencies efficiently, making them suitable for various applications, including mobile signal boosters and communication systems.

LTE (Long-Term Evolution)

A standard for wireless broadband communication commonly referred to as 4G LTE. It provides high-speed data for mobile devices. Signal boosters often need to be compatible with LTE to support modern data services.

LTE-A (LTE-Advanced)

An enhancement to LTE offering higher data rates and improved performance through features like carrier aggregation and MIMO. Signal boosters need to support LTE-A features for optimal performance.

M2M (Machine-to-Machine)

Communication between devices without human intervention, often used in IoT applications. Boosters that support M2M communication need to enhance coverage for these applications.

Maintenance

  • Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the booster system, including antennas and cables, for wear and tear. Check for loose connections and clean the external antenna to ensure optimal performance.
  • Firmware Updates: Some smart signal boosters offer firmware updates to improve performance or add new features. Keeping the device up-to-date can enhance its functionality.

Mesh Networking

A type of networking where multiple devices (like Wi-Fi routers) create a network that extends coverage over a larger area. While primarily related to Wi-Fi, some advanced mobile signal systems incorporate mesh networking principles to distribute boosted signals over large or complex areas.

Microcell

A small cellular tower that provides coverage over a limited geographic area, typically larger than that covered by a femtocell or picocell. Microcells are more similar to traditional cell towers but on a smaller scale, whereas signal boosters amplify signals from existing towers.

MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output)

A technology used in LTE and 5G networks to improve data transmission rates and reliability. Signal boosters that support MIMO can handle multiple data streams simultaneously, enhancing performance.

Network Extender

A device similar to a signal booster, but typically used for indoor settings to create a small cell network. Network extenders are more like mini cell towers, providing coverage in dead zones.

Network Slicing

A 5G feature that allows for the creation of virtual networks within a physical network, tailored for different types of services. Boosters need to support network slicing to ensure compatibility with advanced network architectures.

NLOS (Non-Line-of-Sight)

A scenario where the direct line between the transmitting and receiving antennas is obstructed, often requiring signal boosters to compensate for signal degradation due to obstacles.

Noise Figure

A measure of the noise added by an amplifier or receiver. Lower noise figures indicate better performance, and signal boosters aim to minimize added noise.

NR (New Radio)

The radio access technology for 5G networks, offering higher speeds and lower latency. Signal boosters must support NR frequencies to ensure compatibility with 5G services.

Omni-Directional Antenna

An antenna that receives or transmits signals equally in all directions, typically used when the direction of the nearest cell tower is unknown or when multiple towers are in range.

Oscillation

A feedback loop that occurs when the boosted signal is picked up by the external antenna, leading to interference. Proper installation helps to avoid oscillation issues.

Panel Antenna

A type of indoor antenna often used in larger installations. It has a directional pattern, allowing it to cover a specific area of a building more effectively than an omnidirectional antenna.

Passive DAS (Distributed Antenna System)

A system that distributes cellular signal using passive components like splitters and coaxial cables. Signal boosters are often part of a passive DAS to improve coverage in large buildings.

Phase Noise

The short-term fluctuations in the phase of a signal, which can affect signal quality. Boosters must minimize phase noise to maintain a clean and stable signal.

Picocell

A small cellular base station designed for use in areas where coverage and capacity needs are moderate, such as in large buildings or public spaces. Like femtocells, picocells differ from signal boosters as they provide localized coverage rather than boosting an existing signal.

Pigtail Cable

A short, flexible cable used to connect antennas to a main cable or device, often used in confined spaces where a regular coaxial cable wouldn’t fit easily.

PIM (Passive Intermodulation)

A type of signal interference that can occur when different frequencies mix in a non-linear manner, often due to imperfections in the materials or connections in the booster system. Minimizing PIM is crucial for optimal performance.

Power Amplifier

A component in signal boosters that increases the strength of the signal before broadcasting it. Power amplifiers are crucial for ensuring that signals reach their destination effectively.

Power Supply

  • Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Consider using a UPS to keep your signal booster running during power outages, especially if reliable communication is critical.
  • DC Power Options: For vehicle boosters, ensure you have a stable DC power supply, as fluctuations in power can affect booster performance.

PRACH (Physical Random Access Channel)

A channel used in LTE and 5G networks for initial access and random access requests. Boosters need to ensure they do not interfere with PRACH operations.

PRB (Physical Resource Block)

A unit of resource allocation in LTE networks. It represents a block of frequency and time resources that are used for transmitting data. Boosters must ensure they support the full range of PRBs for effective data transmission.

Propagation Delay

The time it takes for a signal to travel from the source (cell tower) to the destination (mobile device). Signal boosters can help reduce the impact of long propagation delays, especially in rural areas.

Propagation Loss

The reduction in signal strength as it travels through the air or other media. Signal boosters help mitigate propagation loss by amplifying the signal.

Propagation

The way a signal travels through the air. Signal boosters improve propagation within areas where the signal is weak or obstructed.

QCI (Quality of Service Class Identifier)

A parameter used in LTE and 5G networks to define the quality of service for different types of traffic. Boosters need to handle various QCI levels to ensure optimal performance for voice, video, and data services.

RAN (Radio Access Network)

The part of the network that connects mobile devices to the core network. Signal boosters improve the effectiveness of the RAN by enhancing signal strength and coverage.

Reference Signal

Signals sent by the base station to help devices measure the quality of the connection and adjust accordingly. Boosters should amplify reference signals to ensure accurate measurements.

Regulatory Compliance

In many countries, including the U.S., signal boosters must meet specific regulatory requirements to ensure they do not interfere with mobile networks. Always ensure your booster is certified by relevant authorities, like the FCC in the United States.

Repeater Gain

The amount of amplification provided by a signal booster, typically expressed in dB. Higher gain indicates a stronger boost, but excessive gain can cause interference or oscillation.

Repeater

Another term for a signal booster, which receives, amplifies, and retransmits a mobile signal to extend coverage.

Re-Radiating Antenna

Another term for the internal antenna that broadcasts the amplified signal inside the building or vehicle. It “re-radiates” the boosted signal to the surrounding area.

RNC (Radio Network Controller)

Manages the radio resources and connection setup in UMTS networks. Boosters enhance the signal quality between mobile devices and the RNC.

RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power)

A measure of the average power level of the reference signals from a cell tower, used to evaluate signal strength. It helps in determining the effectiveness of signal boosters.

RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality)

A measure of the quality of the received signal, including both signal strength and interference. It’s used to assess overall network performance and the impact of signal boosters.

RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator)

A measurement of the power present in a received radio signal. Signal boosters aim to increase the RSSI value, resulting in better connectivity for devices in the boosted area.

Safety

When installing outdoor antennas, ensure that you follow proper safety protocols, such as avoiding power lines and using appropriate mounting hardware to withstand wind and weather.

SCM (Serving Cell Measurement)

Measurements taken by a mobile device to evaluate the quality of the serving cell’s signal. Signal boosters impact these measurements by improving signal strength and quality.

Sectorization

The practice of dividing a cell tower’s coverage area into multiple sectors, each with its own antenna, to increase capacity and reduce interference. Boosters must be compatible with the sectorization strategy.

Service Antenna

An antenna specifically designed to distribute the boosted signal within the coverage area, typically indoors.

SIB (System Information Block)

Information broadcasted by a cell tower that includes essential network information needed for devices to connect and communicate. Signal boosters should not interfere with or distort these broadcasts.

Signal Booster Kit

A complete package that includes all components necessary for installation, such as external and internal antennas, amplifiers, cables, and mounting hardware. These kits are tailored for specific use cases (e.g., home, vehicle, commercial buildings).

Signal Reflection

The bouncing of signals off surfaces like walls or buildings, which can cause interference or signal degradation. Boosters help mitigate the effects of signal reflection.

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

A measure of signal quality, comparing the level of the desired signal to the background noise. A higher SNR indicates a clearer signal.

SINR (Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio)

A measure of signal quality that compares the level of the desired signal to the combined level of interference and noise. Higher SINR indicates better signal quality and performance.

SISO (Single Input Single Output)

The traditional method for wireless communication, where one antenna is used for both sending and receiving signals. SISO is simpler than MIMO but offers lower data rates.

SMA Connector (SubMiniature version A)

A type of connector commonly used to connect antennas and amplifiers in signal booster systems. The quality of connectors can influence overall signal integrity.

Small Cell

A low-power cell site that covers a smaller geographic area than a traditional macrocell. Signal boosters can enhance coverage and capacity in areas served by small cells.

Smart Signal Booster

A newer type of booster with advanced features like remote monitoring, automatic gain adjustment, and enhanced filtering to provide more efficient and user-friendly operation.

SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio)

A measure of signal strength relative to noise. A higher SNR indicates better signal quality. Signal boosters aim to improve SNR by reducing noise and amplifying the signal.

Soft Handoff

A process where a mobile device seamlessly transitions from one cell tower to another without dropping the connection. Signal boosters help maintain strong connections during handoffs.

Spectral Efficiency

A measure of how effectively the available bandwidth is used for transmitting data. Boosters contribute to better spectral efficiency by amplifying and optimizing signals.

Splitter

A device used to distribute the amplified signal from one internal antenna to multiple antennas within a building. Splitters are used in larger installations to cover multiple rooms or floors.

System Customization

  • Custom Cabling: In some installations, using custom-length coaxial cables or higher-quality cables can improve system performance by reducing signal loss.
  • Additional Antennas: For larger buildings or complex layouts, consider adding more internal antennas to extend coverage.

System Gain

The total amplification provided by the booster system, taking into account the gain from the external antenna, amplifier, and internal antenna. High system gain is essential for large coverage areas or very weak incoming signals.

TAC (Tracking Area Code)

A code used in LTE networks to identify the tracking area of a mobile device. It helps in managing mobility and location updates, which can be affected by signal boosters.

TDD (Time Division Duplex)

A communication method where uplink and downlink transmissions occur on the same frequency but at different times. TDD is used in some LTE networks, and boosters must be compatible with this to function correctly.

TDD-LTE (Time Division Duplex Long-Term Evolution)

A version of LTE that uses time division duplexing, different from FD-LTE. Boosters must support TDD-LTE for compatibility with these networks.

TD-LTE (Time Division Long-Term Evolution)

A variant of LTE that uses time division duplexing for uplink and downlink transmissions. Signal boosters must be compatible with TD-LTE frequencies.

Telematics

A field that combines telecommunications and informatics, often related to vehicle communication systems. Signal boosters are sometimes used in telematics to improve connectivity for navigation, tracking, and communication systems.

Tethered Antenna

An external antenna that is physically connected to a mobile device, providing a direct boost to that device’s signal. This is less common but used in specific cases where maximum signal strength is needed for one device.

Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS)

A measure of how well a mobile device can receive a signal from all directions. Signal boosters aim to improve TIS by ensuring stronger and more uniform signal coverage.

Tower Handoff

The process of switching a mobile connection from one cell tower to another as a user moves through different coverage areas. Signal boosters can help by providing a stronger signal during these transitions.

Tri-Band

A signal booster that supports three frequency bands, offering wider compatibility with different networks and services, including voice, data, and sometimes 5G.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Poor Performance: Check for obstructions around the external antenna or consider a directional antenna if your location is far from the cell tower.
  • Oscillation: Increase the distance between your external and internal antennas or add shielding materials to reduce feedback.

TRX (Transceiver)

A component in cell towers that handles both transmission and reception of signals. Signal boosters work in conjunction with TRXs to improve signal coverage.

UE (User Equipment)

The device used by a mobile subscriber, such as a smartphone or tablet. Boosters enhance communication between UE and cell towers.

UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System)

A third-generation (3G) mobile cellular system for networks based on the GSM standard. Many signal boosters support UMTS to improve 3G signal strength, which is still used in areas where 4G or 5G coverage is limited.

Uplink/Downlink

  • Uplink: The transmission of data from a mobile device to the cell tower.
  • Downlink: The transmission of data from the cell tower to a mobile device. Signal boosters need to amplify both uplink and downlink signals to improve overall communication quality.

Vendor Support and Warranties

Choose reputable vendors that offer good customer support and warranties. Signal boosters can be a significant investment, and having access to technical support and warranty coverage can be valuable.

VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio)

A measure of how efficiently RF power is transmitted from the antenna into the air or from the cable to the antenna. A lower VSWR indicates better efficiency and less signal loss, important for the performance of the signal booster.

WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access)

A radio access technology used in UMTS networks, allowing multiple users to share the same frequency band by encoding data with unique codes. Signal boosters that support UMTS typically also support WCDMA, enhancing 3G connectivity.

Whip Antenna

A type of flexible, omnidirectional antenna often used indoors in signal booster systems for distributing the amplified signal.

Wideband Booster

A signal booster that supports a broad range of frequencies, making it compatible with multiple carriers and network types. This is in contrast to carrier-specific boosters that target only specific bands.

Wireless Repeater

Similar to a signal booster, it’s a device that receives, amplifies, and retransmits a wireless signal to extend the coverage area.

Yagi Antenna

A type of directional antenna known for its high gain and ability to focus on signals from a specific direction, often used for long-distance reception.