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Stop Dropped Calls

Poor cell reception at home? Install a cellular amplifier, and put an end to frustrated redials

Posted 8.28.06 at 2:00 am 0 Comments

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Single-Phone Home
Paul Wootton
Equipment: Wired, carrier-specific amplifier, such as the Signalwide ClickitBase ($230; signalwide.com), connected to your phone
Installation tips: The antenna doesn´t have to be outside, but it will work better if it is. Inside, your phone attaches directly to the amp with a handset-specific cable or a mini-antenna, called an inductive coupler, stuck to the handset. Since the phone is tethered, use a Bluetooth headset to roam around the house.
Tags
amp, amplifier, antenna, bluetooth headset, coupler
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Multi-Phone Home
Paul Wootton
Equipment: Wireless multiband amplifier kit, like the Signalwide LiveBase ($500; signalwide.com), which works with most carriers
Installation tips: Place the outdoor antenna on your roof in a spot with the best all-around visibility. The amplifier box can go anywhere inside your house, but the indoor antenna should be mounted vertically wherever you need the best reception, and 6 to 20 feet away from the outdoor antenna (depending on the model) to avoid interference.
Tags
amplifier kit, indoor antenna, interference, multiband, outdoor antenna
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