Improving your connection with antennas and aerials

A desktop site survey can assist you with determining if there is mobile reception in your area, and what equipment might be needed to get connected.

We can do a free connectivity report to determine if an antenna will help in your particular situation.

Companies such as the two mentioned below, or a local antenna expert, can also conduct a desk check for a fee (as prices do change, check their website for current costs):

• Telco Antennas
• OnWireless

Their report will advise on likely signal levels, the sort of mobile services available, the best antenna and extension device for your location and where to point your antenna.These businesses can then put you in touch with a specialist in your area who understands the requirements for your state.

The following companies can provide equipment and advice, and even installation in some cases:

• Telco Antennas – Advice, equipment and installation
• OnWireless – Advice, equipment and installation
• Powertec Technologies– Equipment provider
• NB Tec – Equipment provider – offers a licensed solution that is a modem/antenna and booster in one that can connect to Telstra, Optus or Vodafone mobile networks.

MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) is a radio frequency technique that can double a 4G carrier’s bandwidth. When you install a MIMO antenna, it could potentially double the download speed at your location. For example, the Wi-Fi routers in your home use MIMO to speed up local Wi-Fi transmissions. You would only use this type of antenna to improve 4G mobile broadband data use, not for improving mobile phone calls.

• See Telco Antennas for further details on MIMO.
• Still need more info? Check out Telco Antennas Frequently Asked Questions

Your device measures signal strength in dBm (decibels per milliwatt), while 4G/5G signal strength is in RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power). Typically, 4G RSRP levels show about -20 dBm lower than your previous 3G RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) levels.

For example, 100dBm (RSSI) would equate to around -120dbm (RSRP). RSRP provides a more accurate signal strength as it focuses solely on the usable signal, excluding noise and network interference.

So, even though 4G RSRP readings might appear lower, it does not mean your signal is weaker.

A general guide to signal strength capability:

There are a few things to consider when choosing and installing your antenna. Unless you are a technical expert, it is best to get assistance from an expert in this process, as some of the below steps can be complicated.

1. You need an antenna that works with your service provider’s network. The chosen antenna must have appropriate directional gain for the terrain you’re using it in. For example, high-gain antennas work best in flat areas with fewer obstacles to the signal path, like in the outback. Medium gain antennas reduce obstruction from buildings, trees or mountains.

   In contrast, unity gain antennas don’t change the received strength and are less obstructed by buildings, terrain or bushland, so they typically get used in rugged and hilly countries. You can learn more about directional gain here.

2. Where there are several competing towers, an omni-directional antenna might be suitable.
3. For some locations, a good internal antenna placed in a suitable location by a window may be all that is required.

1. While time-consuming, it is worth testing your signal in several locations with the antenna to find the right spot.
2. Outside signals can be detected with your mobile phone, but this can require complex processes depending on your mobile type.

   For example, you can easily access this information on an Android device. However, iPhones require you to enter a code.

3. You can use the signal bars on your device to indicate signal strength. However, viewing your signal through dBm (decibel milliwatts) is a better indicator.

   The signal level will display a negative value in dBm. The lower the negative value, the stronger the signal, e.g.,- 81dBm is stronger (better) than -89dBm.

4. Ensure that the mobile phone and modem you are using are from the same network or service provider.

Your TV antenna may be suitable, but if it is not in the best location for the signal, you may need to consider installing a separate pole/mast. Consulting an expert at this time may be required.

1. Your desktop signal survey will have located the towers which service you.
2. Use Google Earth or similar to determine the direction of these towers from your location.
3. Point your antenna accurately by using local landmarks that indicate the direction of the required tower. You can also use a compass to identify directions identified from Google, or there are apps that can assist such as Aus Phone Towers.
   • Aus Phone Towers (3G,4G,5G) – Apps on Google Play
   • Aus Phone Towers (3G,4G,5G) on the App Store (apple.com)

1. A gas arrestor may assist in lightning protection of your equipment.
2. Install a gas arrestor and grounding (as required).
3. Seek professional advice for optimal installation of these devices. Contact your equipment provider.

Once the installation is complete, re-check the signal level and fine tune the antenna direction by using your indoor modem, hotspot mobile phone or Cel-Fi repeater signal level screen. This will also check that your coaxial connections are solid and correct.

Coaxial connectors and long cable runs cause signal loss. Good quality connectors and well planned cable runs minimise this.

1. Use N-type connectors where possible; for example, in the antenna to cable connector.
2. Ensure all external connections are waterproofed with self-amalgamating butyl rubber tape.
3. Ensure the coaxial cable run from antenna to equipment is as short as possible and is the best lowest-loss cable you can afford. It is no good installing a great antenna only to lose precious signal and potential performance by using poor quality, high loss coaxial cable or having an extremely long cable run.

1. The pigtail is a short flexible piece of coaxial cable which adapts the antenna cable connection to your specific device.
2. If a MIMO antenna is used, you’ll need to install two cable runs.

A typical external antenna setup