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Boosting your connection with antennas and aerials
Staying connected is essential, whether you’re at home, on the move, or out at sea. Unstable internet or mobile signals can be frustrating, but the right antenna or aerial can provide a reliable connection for TV reception, radio signals, internet access, or mobile connectivity, even in remote areas. Explore our guide to find the best options for your needs.
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An aerial is any structure used to transmit or receive signals, while an antenna specifically refers to the component that performs this function. On this page, we use the terms “antennas” and “aerials” interchangeably to simplify understanding.
For simplicity, we refer to:
- Fixed antennas: Typically used at home or in stationary locations to improve TV reception, radio signals, or internet connectivity.
- Mobile antennas: Portable solutions designed for vehicles and boats, enhancing connectivity while on the move.
After determining the best provider and service for your needs, you can improve your connection using both passive antennas and active solutions like mobile repeaters. Keep reading to understand the differences and find the right antenna for your situation.
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1 Passive Antennas (Fixed)
A passive antenna is usually mounted on a tall pole on a suitable roof, with cables running down into the house. These cables then connect to either a mobile broadband modem or your mobile, through the use of a mobile phone cradle. This can turn a small amount of reception into one to two bars of service – enough for calls, texting, and internet access through your mobile. Examples of passive antennas include Yagi and MIMO antennas.
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2 Active antennas (Fixed)
An active antenna is a passive antenna connected to an amplifier (either internally or externally). This amplifier is made of components called transistors, which help make signals stronger.
Active antennas are usually known as mobile repeaters (Cel-Fis) or smart antennas and are licensed by ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) to operate on the various telco networks. They also require power to work. You should check your antenna is compatible with the network you are accessing.
How it works: The cables from the passive antenna attach to an active antenna inside your home or building, which then broadcasts the enhanced signal throughout your property. All your mobile devices on the broadcasted network will show full reception. You’ll be able to call, text, and use the internet as usual.
*Using an illegal mobile repeater can carry a large fine as they can interfere with the mobile network. Currently, only Cel-Fi branded models are approved for use within Australia.
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3 MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antennas (Fixed)
A MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna uses multiple antennas to send and receive more data at once, improving wireless communication performance like 4G LTE and 5G. This technology boosts data speeds and signal quality, meaning it is better for boosting your 4G mobile broadband data rather than enhancing phone call quality.
- See Telco Antennas for further details on MIMO.
- Still need more info? Check out Telco Antennas Frequently Asked Questions
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4 Mobile antennas
A mobile antenna for vehicles or boats is specifically designed to enhance signal reception and transmission for mobile devices while in motion or stationery. It improves connectivity for applications such as mobile phones, internet devices, GPS, and communication systems in cars, trucks, caravans, and other vehicles.
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Where do I get antenna equipment and advice?
The following companies can provide equipment and advice, and even installation in some cases:
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- 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.
The Regional Tech Hub strongly recommends professional installation of equipment, especially when it involves working at heights, using dangerous power tools or modifying car auto electrics.
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Antenna technical troubleshooting & tips
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1 Selecting & installing a fixed antenna
Selecting and installing the right antenna is crucial for enhancing your connectivity. Here’s a simplified guide to assist you:
Please note: The Regional Tech Hub strongly recommends professional installation of equipment, especially when it involves working at heights, using dangerous power tools or modifying car auto electrics.
- Choose the right antenna
- Compatibility: Ensure the antenna supports the frequency bands used by your service provider.
- Type:
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- Directional antennas: Ideal for areas with a clear line of sight to a single tower; they focus the signal in one direction.
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- Omni-directional antennas: Suitable when multiple towers are in different directions; they receive signals from all around.
- Gain: Measured in dBi ; higher gain antennas are better for distant towers but have a narrower focus.
- Determine the optimal location
- Height: Mount the antenna as high as possible to avoid obstructions.
- Positioning: Use a mobile device to find the spot with the strongest signal, often referred to as performing the ‘antenna dance’.
- Install a suitable mast
- Your professional installer will do one of the following – Existing structures: Your TV antenna or satellite dish mast might be usable but ensure it’s in an optimal location for mobile data. Or new installation: Consider installing a separate pole or mast if necessary.
- Align a directional antenna
- Tower location: Identify the direction of your service provider’s tower using tools like Google Earth or apps such as Aus Phone Towers.
- Alignment: Point the antenna accurately towards the tower, using landmarks or a compass for guidance.
- Protect against lightning
- Gas arrestor: Install a gas arrestor and proper grounding to safeguard your equipment.
- Professional advice: Consult with experts for optimal installation.
- Final adjustments
- Signal check: After installation, verify the signal strength using your modem or mobile device.
- Fine-tuning: Adjust the antenna direction as needed to achieve the best signal.
- Use quality connectors and cables
- Connectors: Choose N-type connectors to minimize signal loss.
- Cable length: Keep the coaxial cable run as short as possible and use high-quality, low-loss cables.
- Waterproofing: Ensure all external connections are sealed with self-amalgamating butyl rubber tape to prevent moisture ingress.
- Device placement
- Proximity: Position your modem or repeater close to the antenna to reduce cable length and potential signal loss.
- Select appropriate pigtails
- Compatibility: Use the correct pigtail connectors to interface your coaxial cable with your modem, hotspot, or repeater.
A typical external antenna setup
Image courtesy of Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australian (BIRRR).
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2 Selecting and installing a mobile antenna
Enhancing connectivity while on the move is essential for seamless communication and internet access. Here’s a simplified guide to selecting and installing antennas for vehicles and boats:
- Assess your needs
- Travel areas: Determine if you frequent urban, suburban, rural, or remote regions.
- Usage: Decide whether the antenna is for voice calls, data, or both.
- Installation preference: Choose between permanent installations or temporary, portable solutions.
- Understand antenna types
- Omni-directional antennas:
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- Function: Receive signals from all directions.
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- Ideal for: Urban or suburban areas with multiple signal sources.
- Directional antennas:
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- Function: Focus on signals from a specific direction.
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- Ideal for: Rural or remote areas where the signal source is known.
- Portable/magnetic mount antennas:
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- Function: Easy to install and remove.
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- Ideal for: Temporary setups and rental vehicles.
- Consider gain and frequency range
- Gain (dBi):
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- Lower gain (2-5 dBi): Suitable for urban areas.
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- Higher gain (8-12 dBi): Better for rural areas; offers stronger signal amplification but with a narrower beam width.
- Frequency range: Ensure the antenna supports the frequency bands used by your mobile carrier. Modern antennas often support multiple bands (e.g., 700 MHz to 2700 MHz), ensuring compatibility with various networks.
- Installation considerations
- Mounting location:
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- Optimal spots: Roof or bullbar for clear line of sight.
- Cable length:
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- Requirement: Sufficient to connect the antenna to your device without excessive slack.
- Durability:
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- Feature: Weather-resistant design for longevity.
- Ensure compatibility
- Devices: Verify that the antenna is compatible with your mobile device or router. Some antennas require specific connectors or adapters; check specifications before purchasing.
- Explore additional features
- Built-in amplifiers:
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- Benefit: Further boost signals in weak areas.
- Multiple device support:
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- Benefit: Distribute the signal to several devices simultaneously.
- Research brands and reviews
- Reputation: Choose reputable brands known for reliability.
- Customer feedback: Read reviews to gauge performance and customer satisfaction.
- Consider solutions for regional and remote areas
- Innovative products:
- Examples: Companies like Zetify and Network Hoist offer products designed for regional and remote locations.
- Explore internet options on the go
- Cel-FI Go Mobile is a smart signal booster for overcoming the challenge of poor cellular coverage on the road. It is ideal for vehicles and boats, but requires an appropriate antenna, best installed by a professional for optimal performance and reliability.
- Starlink Roam, now available in Australia, offers portable high-speed satellite internet, ideal for travellers and remote locations. Utilising SpaceX’s low Earth orbit satellites, it provides reliable internet access anywhere in the country, ensuring continuous connectivity beyond the reach of traditional networks.
For more information about Portable internet visit our dedicated page.
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