The invention of cell signal technology is a game changer in the way people work, communicate, and exchange information. This generation has become so reliant with instant communication that everywhere, there’s always someone who needs to check if there phone has a four-bar signal strength.
However, cell signals can be unreliable at times, even in urban areas.
Two common reasons for not having a good cell signal are: (1) the phone or device is out of range of a cell tower, and (2) there are signal interferences, like the weather.
These two problems can easily be fixed by:
Relocating to a Better Coverage Area
If a phone signal is not detectable in one place, the easiest remedy is to move to another area where there is better signal.
This shouldn’t be a problem in dense urban areas as most major phone carriers have multiple cell towers in one city.
For those living in the countryside, they can check with their phone provider for a map of their cell tower coverage. Or better yet, one can use their own cell phone to locate the signal by turning on their phone’s dB display.
Users can do that through these steps:
iPhone*
- Activate Phone Mode
- Dial *3001#12345#*
- Enter Field Test Mode
- Check the notifications bar to see the dB reading
*Note: This method won’t work on an iOS 11 phone and models that use Intel modems.
Android
- Access Settings
- Go to General
- Select About Phone
- Then click Network or Status to show the dB value
After the dB meter is on, one can just trace the signal and find the best spot with the strongest reception.
Adding a Phone Signal Booster
Of course, if moving out is out the question, another way to strengthen the cell signal is by installing a signal booster, which can also double as a secondary cell tower inside a home.
A signal booster is used to extend the area of a cell network. It works by amplifying what signal it receives from the original cell tower then covers its own area of transmission.
For devices that rely on 3G or 4G networks, there are boosters, like the WeBoost Connect 4G, that are specifically made to increase phone signal and wireless Internet.
Signal boosters, signal repeaters, and signal extenders all work the same way. Getting a booster may mean spending some money for it, but it’s the best option for those who regularly have connectivity problems due to weak cell signals.
Remove Obstructions
Electronic appliances and other metallic objects, not to mention concrete walls, can disrupt cell signals. The signal is strongest if it’s out in the open and away from television, computer, or any electronic devices.
What others fail to know is that the reflective part of a mirror is a metallic sheet, so it also blocks cell signal if a device sits directly in front of it.
Devices that use signals also heavily affect its strength. Examples of these are microwave ovens and wireless telephones.
Do Not Block the Phone’s Antenna
All phones have an antenna to pick up cell signals. It’s obvious with old phones, but new models have theirs tucked inside the phone.
Usually, phone antennas stand upright with the device. Holding the phone in a horizontal, landscape grip may block the antenna and dampen its reception.
So one should keep their phones up if they want to get a good signal.
Stay Connected
According to Pew Research Center, 95 percent of America use a phone. Whether people use it for personal or professional reasons, there’s no denying that mobile technology has become a necessity to almost everyone.
Knowing these simple ways of improving cell signal will come in handy in keeping one constantly connected to the world.
Related Posts
