Digital Antenna
FAQ for Cellular Amplifier/Repeaters
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The key to optimal amplifier system performance is proper
installation.
Read the installation manual and FAQs prior to beginning
installation! |
Product
Links:
DA4KSBR-50U,
DA4000SBR-50U Dual-Band Cellular Repeater
DA4KMR-10A,
DA4000MR-10A Dual-Band Cellular Repeater
DA4KMR-30U,
DA4000MR-30U Dual-Band Cellular Repeater
DA4000 Inline
Amplifier
FAQ:
Selecting the Right Amplifier for Your
Application
Which
amplifier should I use?
Choose the product that fits your application. Determine your
application by deciding if your primary need is voice communication
(cell phone) or data communication (computer). If your primary need is
data communication, a direct connect amplifier will provide the best,
most reliable connection possible.
Very poor
signal area (voice or data) – DA4000
Poor signal area (building use) – DA4KSBR-50U with yagi antenna
Poor signal area (auto) – DA4000, DA4KMR-10A
Poor signal area (RV) – DA4000, DA4KMR-30U, DA4KSBR-50U
Poor signal area (boat) – DA4000, DA4KMR-30U,DA4KSBR-50U
Recommendations based upon achieving proper antenna separation when
using an amplifier/repeater and outside signal strength of -70 to -90
dB.
Wireless amplifier/repeaters (all cell carriers except Nextel and iDEN):
DA4KMR-10A (38dB gain) – required separation (2’) and metal automobile
roof
DA4KMR-30U (38 dB gain) – required separation (20’) and roof/wall
structure
DA4KSBR-50U (60 dB gain) – required separation (40’) and roof/wall
structure
All
amplifier/repeaters require the outside antenna be installed outside
of the structure (house, car, office, building, boat) and the inside
antenna be installed inside the structure. Wireless
amplifier/repeaters can not be used with both antennas in open air
(i.e., convertible car or open console boat).
Direct
connect amplifiers:
DA4000 – direct connect, no antenna separation (all cell carriers except
Nextel, iDEN)
DA4000N – direct connect, no antenna separation (Nextel, iDEN)
Car with metal roof – DA4000 or DA4KMR-10A
Truck with metal roof – DA4000 or DA4KMR-10A
Convertible car – DA4000 only
Open console boat – DA4000 only
RV 20’ to 39’ – DA4000 or DA4KMR-30U
RV 40’ and over – DA4000, DA4KMR-30U, DA4KSBR-50U
Powerboats 36’ to 50’ – DA4000 or DA4KMR-30U
Powerboats 50’ and over – DA4000, DA4KSBR-50U
Sailboats 20’ to 29’ (outside antenna at top of mast) – DA4000 or
DA4KMR-30U
Sailboats 30’ and over (outside antenna at top of mast) – DA4000 or
DA4KSBR-50U
Why should I choose your amplifier?
PowerMax amplifiers designed and manufactured by Digital Antenna are the
only amplifiers to be honored for outstanding design and innovation.
Digital Antenna amplifiers have been honored by the Consumer Electronic
Association (CES), National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA),
National Marine Manufacturing Association (NMMA) and Sail’s Pittman
Award.
FAQ: DA4000MR, DA4KMR Series Amplifier/Repeaters (38 dB Gain)
What is the
difference between the DA4KMR-30U and DA4KMR-10A?
The MR-30U and MR-10A have the same 38 dB amplifier/repeater unit but
different antennas and cable.
The DA4KMR-10A includes an outside magnetic mount antenna that MUST be
mounted on the center metal roof of the car. This blocks the cell signal
from reaching the included inside antenna. The DA4KMR-10A system can
only be used with the included antennas and power supply or a cellular
antenna manufactured by Digital Antenna.
The DA4KMR-30U includes a 9dB gain 18" fiberglass antenna that is used
on a boat, house or RV. This antenna must be 15' to 20' away from the
inside antenna and separated by a roof/wall structure. The DA4KMR-30U
system can only be used with the included antennas and power supply, or
with a cellular antenna manufactured by Digital Antenna.
I
am using the DA4KMR-30U. Why don’t I have reception in the next room?
The DA4000MR amplifier does not transmit through walls. 38 dB is not
enough gain to penetrate a wall. Based upon outside signal strength, the
MR-30U will amplify one room or in free air up to 1,000 square feet. The
inside antenna for all applications should be placed in an open area not
in a cabinet or under a seat.
Where is the
best location to install the inside antenna on the DA4000MR, DA4KMR?
Try to locate the inside antenna as central to the desired operation
area as possible. The inside antenna should be located away from metal
objects and electronics. The inside antenna must be located in a visible
location and not behind an object.
I am using
the DA4KMR-10A in my car. Why doesn’t it amplify my house when the car
is in the garage?
The signal from the inside antenna should never reach the outside
antenna. The signal from the inside antenna amplifies inside the vehicle
only and is not made to amplify beyond the vehicle.
When
traveling, why do I have to be very close to the inside antenna to
receive a signal increase in some areas ?
In a car, as you travel through poor signal areas, you will find the
cell phone works only closer to the inside antenna. The coverage area
decreases as the signal outside weakens. If the cell phone antenna is
touching the MR inside antenna, the performance will be closer to that
of the DA4000 direct connect amplifier.
FAQ: DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR,
DA4KSBR-50U Series Amplifier/Repeaters (60 dB Gain)
Should the
DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U be professionally
installed?
We highly recommend installation by an individual experienced with high
frequency RF equipment. The instruction manual provides an individual
with all information necessary for installation; however, the
instruction manual must be read and thoroughly understood prior to
beginning the installation.
Why do I
have to install the outside and inside antenna so far apart?
To achieve the greatest coverage area, the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U,
DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U has a gain of 60dB re-transmitting from the inside
antennas. The outside antenna can radiate up to 3 watts. The inside and
outside antennas must be isolated from each other so they do not have
harmful feedback into each other. The inside and outside antennas MUST
be separated by 40', with an exterior wall and roof structure between
the antennas.
I installed
the inside and outside antenna 40' apart. Why is the system not
performing?
In some applications, the inside and outside antenna may require a
separation greater than 40'. If you do not have the proper attenuation
between the two antennas, more distance is required between the
antennas. A fiberglass wall, boat deck, non-insulated exterior wall or
glass doors do not equal a concrete or framed wall with foil insulation.
Therefore, the separation between antennas must be greater. Poor signal
or no signal outside and improper connectors or cable will also result
in poor or no performance.
FAQ:
Inside and Outside Antenna Separation
Do
I have to install the outside antenna, outside?
Yes, the outside antenna must be installed outside of the yacht, RV,
home or office. The outside antenna must be installed outside (with the
proper antenna separation based upon model selected), with an exterior
wall between the outside and inside antennas and away from windows. It
must be installed 6 meters horizontally away from a person.
What happens if I do not install the outside and inside antenna far
enough apart?
The outside and inside antenna must be installed with the proper
separation, with an exterior wall and roof structure between the
antennas. A minimum of 40' of separation (DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U,
DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U) or (2’ and metal car roof) or 20’ (fiberglass boat
wall) separation (DA4000MR, DA4KMR) between the antennas, plus an
exterior wall/roof structure. If you do not have the proper attenuation,
more distance is required between the antennas. A fiberglass wall, i.e.,
a boat deck, does not equal a home or office wall. Therefore, the
separation between antennas must be greater. If the antennas are not
properly separated, the DA4000SBR (DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U)
and DA4000MR (DA4KMR) amplifier will be damaged and the warranty voided.
Is
a window enough of a separation between the outside and inside antenna?
No, a window does not provide the attenuation required. If you do not
have the proper attenuation, more distance is required between the
antennas. A window does not equal a home or office wall. Therefore, the
separation between antennas must be greater.
Do
I ever need more than 40' of separation between the two antennas?
Yes, if you do not have proper attenuation between the inside and
outside antennas plus the wall/roof structure, you will need to place
the antennas farther apart.
On
my boat, I installed the two antennas 40' apart or more. Why is the
light turning red and not green?
A fiberglass wall, i.e., boat deck or bulkhead, does not equal a home or
office wall for RF attenuation. Therefore, the separation between
antennas must be greater. Marine installations should always be verified
with a network analyzer such as an Anritsu Sitemaster.
I
have a 24’ boat. Why can’t I use the DA4000MR, DA4KMR or DA4000SBR,
DA4KSBR?
There is no possibility of achieving the proper attenuation between the
outside and inside antennas on a 24’ fiberglass boat. Use the DA4000
direct connect amplifier on this size boat.
FAQ: LED
Indicator Light
What should I do if the light is red on the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U,
DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U?
Immediately turn the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U
amplifier unit to the off position. A constant red light will damage the
unit and may void the warranty. Relocate the two antennas for proper RF
attenuation.
Can I bring
the two antennas close together and try to make the light red?
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MAKE THE LIGHT TURN RED! This will damage the
amplifier and void the warranty.
The light
does not change on the DA4000MR, DA4KMR or DA4000SBR, DA4KSBR. Is it
working?
Yes, it is possible that the light will not visibly change with PCS, GSM
1900 and other phones operating on 1900 MHz. This is due to the nature
of the phones' transmissions being so fast that your eye cannot see the
light change.
What color should the light be after installation?
The light must be green after installation, and when no cell phone is in
use. If the light is not green after installation and no cell phone is
being used, the two antennas must be relocated farther apart from each
other.
FAQ: Inside Antenna
Where is the best location to install the inside antenna on the
DA4000SBR, DA4KSBR?
Try to locate the inside antenna as central to the desired operation
area as possible. The inside antenna should be located away from metal
objects and electronics. The inside antenna must be located a minimum of
12” from the DA4000SBR amplifier unit. The antenna can be located
farther away and extended with the proper coaxial cable.
Where is the
best location to install the inside antenna on the DA4000MR, DA4KMR?
Try to locate the inside antenna as central to the desired operation
area as possible. The inside antenna should be located away from metal
objects and electronics. The inside antenna must be located in a visible
location and not behind an object. The antenna can be located farther
away and extended with the proper coaxial cable.
Can I extend
the inside antenna cable?
Yes, the inside antenna cable can be extended up to 10’ with Digital
Antenna’s exclusive DA340 or RG-8X cable. Contact your local dealer.
How far should the inside white antenna be from the DA4000SBR, DA4KSBR
or DA4000MR. DA4KMR amplifier box?
The inside antenna must be located a minimum of 12” from the DA4000SBR,
DA4KSBR or DA4000MR, DA4KMR amplifier unit. The antenna can be located
farther away and extended with the proper coaxial cable.
Can I use a
different inside antenna?
Only Digital Antenna authorized products may be used with the DA4000SBR,
DA4KSBR or DA4000MR, DA4KMR system. Using unauthorized equipment with
the DA4000SBR, DA4KSBR system will harm the system, void the warranty
and can be detected in the event of a failure.
I am next to the white inside antenna, but when I move 1’ away, it does
not work. Why?
The most likely possibility is the system is improperly installed and
has a low level oscillation that desensitizes the receiver electronics
of the cell phone. To correct this, relocate the positions of the
outside and inside antennas, making them farther apart from each other.
Another
possibility is that the outside antenna is mounted in an area that has a
very marginal signal. To correct this, relocate the outside antenna to
an area that has more signal as indicated by your cell phone. Also,
check all connectors and cable. Connectors should be securely connected
to the amplifier and antenna. NEVER USE A TOOL TO TIGHTEN THE
CONNECTORS!
FAQ: Outside Antenna
What other cellular antenna can I use with your amplifier and
amplifier/repeaters?
Any of Digital Antenna’s dual band cellular antennas may be used with
the DA4000, DA4000MR and DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U
system. They are available in many mounting styles and in a white or
black high gloss finish.
Can I use an existing antenna and cable with the DA4000MR or DA4000SBR,
DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U?
Yes, if it is a dual band cellular antenna manufactured by Digital
Antenna Inc. Only Digital Antenna authorized products may be used with
the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U system. Using
unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR,
DA4KSBR-50U or DA4000MR, DA4KMR will harm the system, void the warranty
and can be detected in the event of a failure.
Can I install the outside or inside antenna upside down?
Antenna patterns vary between the top and bottom lobes. For maximum
coverage of the DA4000MR, DA4KMR or DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR,
DA4KSBR-50U system, the antennas must be installed with the connectors
on the bottom in a vertical position.
Where is the best place to install the outside antenna?
The fiberglass antenna rod must be 3’ away from metal and 6 meters
horizontally away from persons, in a location high enough to be free
from any obstructions, and in the strongest signal area as indicated by
your cell phone.
Can I install the outside antenna next to a metal pole? How far does the
antenna have to be mounted from other metal objects?
The outside antenna can be mounted on a metal pole, but the fiberglass
rod can not be next to metal. The outside antenna fiberglass rod must be
at least 1 meter away from any metal object, including a tin roof. For
maximum performance, the outside antenna should be clear of all
obstructions by 6'.
Can I use a yagi antenna with the DA4000MR, DA4KMR or DA4000SBR,
DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U?
In poor signal areas, you may have to use a yagi antenna to receive a
suitable signal from the tower. Using a yagi will limit the repeater
unit to only operate on a single band; therefore, it will be necessary
to determine whether you want to use the high or low band prior to
choosing the yagi. Another option is to use two yagi antennas, one low
band and one high band, in combination with our
DA-2100 Combiner. Your dealer can help you choose a suitable
yagi antenna.
FAQ: Poor Signal Quality
Why do I only have a small coverage area?
The most likely possibility is that the system is improperly installed
and has a low level oscillation that desensitizes the receiver
electronics of the cell phone. To correct this, relocate the positions
of the outside and inside antennas, making them farther apart from each
other.
Another
possibility is that the outside antenna is mounted in an area that has a
very marginal signal. To correct this, relocate the outside antenna to
an area that has more signal as indicated by your cell phone. Also,
check all connectors and cable. Connectors should be securely connected
to the amplifier and antenna. NEVER USE A TOOL TO TIGHTEN THE
CONNECTORS!
I have no signal outside. Will the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR,
DA4KSBR-50U help me?
You must receive at least a -90 dB signal from the tower to operate the
DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U or DA4000MR, DA4KMR
system. In poor signal areas, you must use a yagi antenna to receive a
suitable signal from the tower. Using a yagi will limit the repeater
unit to only operate on a single band; therefore, it will be necessary
to determine whether you want to use the high or low band prior to
choosing the yagi. Another option is to use two yagi antennas, one low
band and one high band, in combination with our
DA-2100 Combiner. Your dealer can help you choose a suitable
yagi antenna.
FAQ: Cable and Connectors
Why does the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U include 50’
of cable?
For the average installation, this will be sufficient for the required
40' of separation. Longer cables in 75’ and 100’ lengths are available
for purchase through your dealer.
I need more cable to install the outside antenna. What cable should I
use?
Digital Antenna manufactures pre-assembled cables in 75’ and 100’
lengths. This low loss PowerMax cable is designed to be used with the
PowerMax amplifier and repeater product line. The only suitable
replacement is LMR series cables (LMR400 or LMR600).
When I was installing the cable the connector fell off. What do I do?
Only replace a connector with the proper type for the cable and with the
proper crimping tool to assure a factory quality connection. NEVER
replace a connector with a sub-standard quick connect style connector.
NEVER try to push a connector back on the cable; a new connector is
required.
Can I use the cable that is already installed on my boat or in my house?
It is best to use the cable included in the system. The DA4000MR, DA4KMR
and DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U includes premium low
loss cable with a factory attached connector. The system will not work
with improper cable. Only 50 Ohm Digital Antenna cellular cable or Times
Microwave LMR equivalent cable can be used. Check cable specifications
and choose the proper cable type based upon cable run length. If the
cable run is too long with the improper cable type, all signal will be
lost in the cable.
DO NOT USE
RG58 cable for cellular! DO NOT USE TV or satellite cable (such as RG6)
for cellular!
What type of connectors can I use?
ONLY USE CONNECTORS RATED FOR CELLULAR FREQUENCIES! Mini-UHF, N-type,
TNC and SMA are rated for cellular frequencies. PL-259 or UHF connectors
are not rated for cellular frequencies. F-type connectors are 75 ohm and
should never be used for cellular. DO NOT USE UHF or F-TYPE CONNECTORS
FOR CELLULAR!
What
happens if I use a PL-259 or UHF connector with a cellular amplifier or
amplifier/repeater?
A PL-259 or UHF connector is rated for a maximum of 300 MHz. Cellular
frequencies are 800 and 1900 MHz. A PL-259 or UHF connector will leak
80% or more of the RF signal. No signal will get to the antenna, and RF
frequency leaking out of the connector will cause an oscillation.
FAQ: FCC and Cellular Carriers
Does the
owner of this equipment (installed location) require an FCC license to
operate the repeater?
No, neither the user nor the installer needs an FCC license. All of our
products are FCC approved. In the instruction manual, you will find
guidelines to follow to comply with all FCC requirements, such as proper
separation between antennas, and persons must be 6 meters horizontally
away from outside antenna.
Do the
cellular providers accept the use of cellular repeaters?
Not all amplifiers are tower friendly. All of our amplifiers have
dynamic variable gain control so that the tower is never overpowered. We
are the only manufacturer with carrier approvals.
Although the
carriers own the frequencies that they operate on, are they permitting
others to do the same with the repeaters?
The cell phone, which is paid for by the customer, is transmitting on
the specified frequency, not the repeater. The repeater is simply
improving the signals. The repeater amplifies only the signal of the
cell phone that is authorized to be used at the specific frequency.
If a
cellular repeater is installed and causes interference that cannot be
corrected, will the FCC or others require it to be removed?
If a repeater is not installed properly, it can create an oscillation
that can cause interference on that frequency. The FCC can find this
oscillation and require it to be corrected. Digital Antenna repeaters
have a power down circuit that will lower the gain of the amplifier when
an oscillation is detected. If the oscillation is very strong, it can
burn out the amplifier chip. PROPER INSTALLATION IS VERY IMPORTANT.
Standard high frequency installation guidelines should be used for the
proper cabling, separation and connectors. Improper connectors like
PL259s can cause many problems.
Why can I
only use your antennas and cables with the DA4000, DA4000MR, DA4KMR or
DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U?
The DA4000, DA4000MR, DA4KMR and DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR,
DA4KSBR-50U are high performance, technologically advanced RF
amplifiers. They are tested as a system and provide performance
specified by the FCC approval. An improperly matched antenna (one with a
high SWR) or cable can damage the amplifier unit, cause it to operate in
violation of FCC specifications and void the warranty.
Can I use
the amplifier with my existing external cellular antenna?
The FCC requires that the amplifier only be used with Digital Antenna
brand cellular antennas or an antenna authorized by Digital Antenna,
Inc.
FAQ: General
Questions
Can I leave your amplifier or amplifier/repeater on all the time?
All Digital Antenna amplifiers can remain on all the time; however, do
not leave the automobile amplifier on if the vehicle is not going to be
used for more than 1 week.
There is no adapter cable for my phone. What do I do?
The cell phone manufacturers determine which phones have antenna ports.
If the phone is not designed with a port, you must change to a cell
phone that has an antenna port or use a wireless amplifier/repeater.
Can I buy just the amplifier/repeater unit?
No, the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U and DA4000MR,
DA4KMR amplifiers are sold and tested as a system. The antennas and
cable are a tuned system. Poorly tuned antennas may cause system
failure. Only Digital Antenna authorized products may be used with the
DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U and DA4000MR, DA4KMR
systems. Using unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U,
DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U and DA4000MR, DA4KMR systems will harm the system,
void the warranty and can be detected in the event of a failure.
I have tech questions. Who do I contact?
Your first level of technical support is your dealer. If your dealer
cannot answer your questions, send your inquiry via e-mail to
support@digitalantenna.com.
I need installation help. Who do I contact?
Contact your dealer. Your dealer has the expertise to assist you with
installation questions and can provide you with any accessories needed
for your custom installation. The dealer may also be able to direct you
to a technician to verify your installation.
Can I send my amplifier or antenna to Digital Antenna to test?
Digital Antenna will test your amplifier or antenna for a fee. Amplifier
and amplifier/repeaters have a $75 bench test fee. An antenna bench test
fee is $25.
I’ve read all FAQs and followed all instructions and my amplifier
doesn’t work. How do I send it to Digital Antenna to test?
Have
your serial number ready, and call Digital Antenna at 954-747-7022 to
receive an RMA (return materials authorization) number.
Every
product is 100% tested and working when it leaves the Digital Antenna
factory. Digital Antenna warrants all material defects and workmanship
(read our
complete warranty). Any customer alterations or damage voids the
warranty. Using unauthorized products with amplifiers can be detected
and voids the warranty.
Products
repaired under warranty will be returned with the same packaging and
accessories as received by Digital Antenna. Refurbishment is available
for a fee. If no problem is found, a $75 bench test fee plus shipping
costs will be charged to the customer.
Can I use the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U or
DA4000MR, DA4KMR for Nextel?
No, the DA4000SBR, DA4000SBR-50U, DA4KSBR, DA4KSBR-50U or DA4000MR,
DA4KMR amplifiers are designed for use with all cellular systems in the
USA and Canada, except Nextel’s iDEN network. For Nextel, use our
DA4000N 3 Watt Dual Band Direct Connect Amplifier.
Can I use a Digital Antenna amplifier in Europe?
Digital Antenna amplifier models DA4000, DA4KMR-10A, DA4KMR-30U and
DA4KSBR-50U operate on the 800 and 1900 MHz cellular bands. These models
do not operate on iDEN, Nextel or European GSM networks. Our DA4000N
amplifier operates on the iDEN network. We currently do not manufacture
an amplifier for the European GSM network.
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