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!
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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: 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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