Which 3G Antenna Do I Need

[andys_mf]

Following on from the high number of questions and queries that were posted on the blog about mobile broadband antenna compatibility, I've set this thread up to answer your questions on which antenna you'll need.

Feel free to post your question below and I'll get back to you as quick as I can (normally within half an hour in the week but no promises!)

Before you post, you might want to check out coverage for your Mobile Broadband Network in your area using their coverage maps:

* Vodafone Coverage Map
* Three Coverage Map
* T-Mobile Coverage Map
* Orange Coverage Map
* O2 Coverage Map

You might also want to take a look at the OFCOM Sitefinder website to find out details of your nearest transmitter - this will help you with chosing a mobile broadband provider and if you've got an antenna, which way to position it.

OFCOM Sitefinder

Andy

[bbj2512]

I have a cricket broadband modem model #A600 which antenna would I use?

[andys_mf]

I've not heard of 'Cricket' as a brand of modem? Which network are you on?

[bbj2512]

which antenna do you use for a cricket modem, model A 600?

[bbj2512]

In Texas we have cricket mobile and they provide a cricket broadband modem

[andys_mf]

Hi, We're based in the UK, and we don't have access to USA modem specs so It's not one i'll be able to advise on.

In all cases, the Universal Antenna should work fine, however, we don't ship to America

Andy

[wozzie]

I have recently bought a HUAWEI E1550 USB Modem on the 3 network.
I am only getting 1 or 2 bars out of 5.
Which of your products would you recomend and if it does not work do you have areturns policy.

wozzie

[andys_mf]

Hi Wozzie,

we do have a 30 day no quibble returns policy - more info on that by following the link below:
30 Day No-Quibble Money Back Guarantee | Mobile Fun Blog

The E1550 uses the universal connection, so you can use either the clip, high gain or outdoor panel antenna.

There is an over view on the differences between them on the mobile fun blog, and the first post in this thread gives you information on how to check coverage where you are and how to locate your nearest transmitter.

If you're within a couple of miles of your nearest transmitter then the clip antenna should be fine. upto 5 miles then i'd go with the high gain one. If you're after a more permanent solution then i'd look at the panel one, but generally speaking the clip or high gain should be fine.

If you get stuck give me a shout.

andy.

How to Boost your Mobile Broadband 3G Signal | Mobile Fun Blog

Mobile Broadband Antenna range extended | Mobile Fun Blog

[wozzie]

Hi Andy

Thank you very much for your reply.
I have just placed an order with you for the High Gain Antenna and 3 metre cable.
Looking forward to a much improved connection.

Thanks Again

Wozzie

[andys_mf]

No problem. If you have any issues setting it up give me a shout.

andy

[wozzie]

Hi Andy

Very efficient delivery, product arrived in less than 24 hours.
However, my signal strength has not improved at all. I have located my nearest 3 mast and pointed the high gain antenna towards it.
I have also played around with the universal adapter, attaching it to different areas of the dongle but to no avail.
Any suggestions ?
Wozzie

[andys_mf]

Hi Wozzie,

I've had a look at your postcode and there are 2 '3' transmitters near you, so if you're not getting anything from the one your using now, it might be worth trying the other.

The nearest one to you is in woodlands road (about half a mile) and the other is in Heyhouses lane (about 1mile)

each one is about 13 metres high, so if you're on low ground you may need to angle the transmitter up slightly.

I'm about to email you a screenshot that shows you roughly where the two transmitters are so you can check to make sure you're pointing in the right place.

I guess you're using it in the house - if you've checked the angle of the antenna and still not getting anything, try it outside. This might sound odd, but it will let you know if it's something in the house thats stopping the signal coming in.

To be honest - It's surprising you're getting bad signal with you being so close to the two transmitters, so that would suggest that there is something either causing interference or blocking the signal.

let me know how you get on.

Andy

[wozzie]

Hi Andy

Thanks for your reply but that is not my postcode.
My postcode is FY4 2DY

Wozzie

[stejawh]

Hi Andy,

My parents use the model above and it works fine for a while before dropping signal.

What signal booster would we need?

Thanks,

Steve

[andys_mf]

Hi Steve,

The E1550 doesn't have a specific antenna connection so any of the universal antennas will fit.

If you're picking up 3 or more bars of signal then I'd say the clip antenna will be ok, any less than that and I'd go for the high gain one.

All the antennas for the E1550 are on the following page:
USB Dongle Antennas

Andy

[stejawh]

Cheers Andy,

That's great. Could you help me with finding where our service providers (3's) nearest mast is?

Thanks,

Steve

[andys_mf]

Sure, what's your postcode?

If you don't want to post it on here, send me a private message, I've lifted the restrictions on your account.

Andy