I get 2 signal bars “fair” placing this unit on my window. I would like to get a stronger signal so I can use a desktop pc. It’s fast on my phone. Any recommendations?

Thanks null

Question

I get 2 signal bars “fair” placing this unit on my window. I would like to get a stronger signal so I can use a desktop pc. It’s fast on my phone. Any recommendations? 

Thanks null

Stephen · Accepted Answer

Make sure you have "LTE All" selected in the cellular settings. Otherwise, it will tend to connect to HSPA+ and give slower speeds. The bars displayed on the device doesn't mean as much as some of the data displayed on the diagnostics page. Check the RSRQ and RSRP values for optimal signal (chart attached). Try several different areas of your house looking at these values instead of the bars on the modem. If you are still having issues, I would recommend a Wilson Electronics Wideband Directional Antenna 700-2700 MHz (50 ohm). It would require some low loss coax cable with a splitter to 2x TS9. This has proved to be pretty reliable on a setup I have done (160mbps down). The antenna, cable, and splitter can all be purchased for around $100 if the other options do not help.

Answered by Stephen 6 years ago

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fred · Answer

Get an external antenna

Answer

I had the same issue, so I returned it and got the unlocked version then was able to use Tmobile who gave me 4 to 5 bars.

FreddyTheFrog · Answer

Hi Ben, 
I found that if I load a signal strength finder app to my phone, I can walk around the house and find the strongest signal from my provider (AT&T).
I use two apps, one is "Phone Signal" which I found most helpful for finding the exact two feet where the strongest signal is received. That's right, I don't understand why, but a difference of a few feet caused a rise or drop in signal strength. For omni-directional receivers/transmitters, a real time phone signal app is extremely helpful.
Use caution as I learned that my hot-spot has very limited data caps through my provider which makes it less useful than simply activating "hot-spot" capabilities on my phone or ipad. 

I hope that helps. If you have a directional signal antenna, the second app I use for my phone is OpenSignal as it shows actual tower location and signal coverage so you can then point to that specific tower.

“I get 2 signal bars “fair” placing this unit on my window. I would like to get a stronger signal so I can use a desktop pc. It’s fast on my phone. Any recommendations? Thanks”

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