Cellular Booster

[Skipper41]

We often travel to Canada's North Channel. In some remote areas we are unable to receive a cellular signal. I would like to install a cellular booster to solve this problem. I am interested in what experiences other captains have had with them, and a recommendation on a brand that you feel works well. Also, is it necessary to contact your cellular provider (ATT in our case) to get permission to use one? I have seen this statement on a couple of manufacturer's websites. Thanks for your comments.

 

[psneeld]

The biggest complaint from booster users in boats and RVs is that they can only boost a signal if they are receiving a weak but GOOD signal to begin with.

Sort of like television amplified antennas, they work some of the time but pulling in even strong signals that are affected by blockages or noise doesn't solve the problem.

I would say it's about 50/50 of all the reports on whether they are worth it or not. Kinda what I would expect based on the above.

 

[denverd0n]

You do not have to get the permission of your cellular provider. As mentioned, though, they will not get you a signal where there is NONE. They will only improve the signal where it is weak.


Good luck.

 

[Ken E.]

I have a Wilson booster in the boat and a Cel Fi in the RV. As stated, they don't work unless they have a signal to work with. I agree that it's debatable just how much benefit they provide.

 

[Sababa]

Mine never made a dime’s worth of difference. I tore it out and repurposed the antenna for a Vesper Cortex after I got my Starlink. Total waste of money IMHO.

 

[bowball]

To improve cellular there are two ways in my opinion.

1. Great external antenna and placement.

2. Minimize the amount of coax antenna run before it gets to the cellular radio/router. There’s a lot of signal loss there.

So I installed a top antenna on the radar mast, and put my radio/router in a small dome next to it, which then allows me to use Ethernet cable for the long runs which doesn’t lose signal.

Boosters not effective as discussed from all accounts.

It then I started using Starlink a year later!

Though cellular is still important.