September 13, 2004

By: Wendy Whittaker
Website: http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com

External Cellular Atennas Boost Signal Strength

An external cellular antenna is designed to boost the signal strength of a mobile phone. Depending on where you are, a cellular antenna can dramatically enhance the performance of your cell phone or be no help at all.

Location is the primary factor in signal strength. How far you are from the cell tower and what stands between your phone and that tower determines the type of cellular antenna you need. The 0db gain antenna is designed for mountains or urban centers with lots of tall building. This antenna radiates energy vertically. In flat, open terrain, higher gain (5db to 9db)cell phone antennas that radiate energy horizontally work best. The 3db gain antenna is a nice compromise for general settings.

Cell phone antennas work by focusing the energy of the existing radio single. External antennas are able to add additional signal gain by avoiding obstacles that hamper the performance of internal models. Two of the biggest obstacles are your head and your car body. Both absorb a lot of signal strength from your cell phone’s internal antenna.

A plethora of antennas for cell phones are available for home, office and mobile use. You can mount external antennas directly on your car, RV or even your boat. Your phone will require an external antenna adapter to use any of these signal-improving devices. Some phones have an external antenna port. On other models, you must remove the internal antenna and insert the adapter. Hands-free adapters that can be easily installed are also on the market.

You need to select an antenna that fits your phone type and is compatible with the network you are using. Dual-band antennas that work on more than one type of network are available. If you have questions about just what type of network coverage you have, contact your service provider.

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Also See: motorola cell phone accessories.

About The Author:

Wendy Whittaker is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com.  A cellular phone industry resource featuring articles, comparisons and reviews of cellular phone and service plans.