|
FAQ:
Selecting the Right Amplifier for Your
Application
What is the
difference between a direct connect amplifier and an amplifier/repeater?
All Digital Antenna
amplifiers are dual band 3 watt variable gain RF amplifiers. They are all
FCC approved to be used with all carriers in the USA and Canada. The DA4000
is a direct connect amplifier and is used with a cell phone adapter cable.
The DA4000SBR and DA4000MR are wireless amplifier/repeaters that are used
with an inside antenna to re-broadcast the signal to your cell phone and an
outside antenna to communicate with the cell tower.
The DA4000SBR
(60dB gain) system requires the outside and inside antennas to be separated
a minimum of 40', with an exterior wall and roof structure between the
antennas. This system provides up to 5,000 square feet of interior coverage
based upon outside cell signal strength. The weaker the cell signal is
outside, the less coverage area you will have inside.
The DA4000MR
(38dB gain) system requires outside and inside antennas to be separated a
minimum of 2’ (DA4KMR-10A) when installed with a metal car roof between
antennas, or a minimum of 15’ and up to 20’ (DA4KMR-30U) with an exterior
wall and roof structure between the antennas. The DA4000MR systems provide
up to 1,000 square feet, one room interior coverage or a standard car
interior (depending upon outside cell signal). With the DA4000MR system, the
inside antenna must be visible and cannot be placed behind an object.
Is an
amplifier/repeaters’ performance the same as that of a direct connect
amplifier?
In very remote areas, the DA4000 direct connect amplifier is the best
choice. The performance difference is approximately 10% to 15%. This
difference is more prominent in remote areas.
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: DA4000 Series Amplifiers
Can I make the DA4000 Dual Band Amplifier a repeater by adding an inside
antenna?
No, the DA4000 is a direct connect unit only and must be physically
connected to your cell phone or cellular device with the appropriate cable.
Click
here for a list of available cell adapter cables.
How do I
connect my cell phone to the DA4000?
Most phones with an external antenna port can be connected directly into the
amplifier. We carry a full line of adapters for $19.95; see the complete
list
here. The
amplifier can also be connected to a hands-free car kit, PBX, Tellular or
any cellular system that has an external antenna port.
There is no adapter
cable for my phone and I have a DA4000. 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 use the
DA4000SBR in a car?
No, you cannot use the DA4000SBR in a car due to the minimum separation of
40' or greater between the outside and inside antenna. Use Model #
DA4KMR-10A in a car when a metal roof is separating the inside and outside
antennas, or use the DA4000 in a car with a convertible top or any
application where you cannot meet separation requirements.
Why can I
only use your antennas and cables with the DA4000, DA4000MR or DA4000SBR?
The DA4000, DA4000MR and DA4000SBR 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 or cause it to operate in
violation of FCC specifications, as well as voiding the warranty. USING
UNAUTHORIZED EQUIPMENT WITH THE DA4000, DA4000MR OR DA4000SBR VOIDS 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.
Can I hard wire the 12
VDC power connection?
Yes, simply cut off the lighter plug and be certain that the center contact
of the amplifier is plus (+).
Does the amplifier
boost in both transmit and receive?
Yes, it is a fully duplexed linear RF amplifier.
FAQ: DA4000MR 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?
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 Series Amplifier/Repeaters (60 dB Gain)
Should the
DA4000SBR 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 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) or (2’ and metal car roof) or 20’ (fiberglass
boat wall) separation (DA4000MR) 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 and DA4000MR 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 or DA4000SBR?
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?
Immediately turn the DA4000SBR 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 or DA4000SBR. 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?
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?
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 or DA4000MR amplifier box?
The inside antenna must be located a minimum of 12” from the DA4000SBR or
DA4000MR 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 or
DA4000MR system. Using unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR 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 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?
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
system. Using unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR 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 or DA4000SBR 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 or DA4000SBR?
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 help me?
You must receive at least a -90 dB signal from the tower to operate the
DA4000SBR or DA4000MR 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 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 and
DA4000SBR 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 or DA4000SBR?
The DA4000, DA4000MR and DA4000SBR 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 and DA4000MR 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 and DA4000MR systems. Using unauthorized equipment with the
DA4000SBR and DA4000MR systems will harm the system, void the warranty and
can be detected in the event of a failure.
There are no local dealers in my area. Where do I buy your amplifiers?
Digital Antenna only sells its products through a nationwide dealer network.
Digital Antenna products may be purchased through many authorized dealers
nationwide, including online dealers. Visit our
Dealer Locator page for more information.
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 or DA4000MR for Nextel?
No, the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR 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.
|
