I set up my directional antenna

[MrNoodly]

Just a heads up on this setup:

I have had the same antenna rig for just under a year, and love it,

BUT..... be aware,

the very stiff, thick low noise cable, in combination with the adapters causes strain at the booster's antenna connection and can eventually cause the connector on the Wilson cell booster to break. Mine pulled the traces right off the circuit board.

This rig needs a pigtail of light, flexible cable between the heavy low noise cable and cell booster as a strain relief. Mine normally sat on a shelf, but every time it was moved or connected/disconnected, there was strain on the booster antenna connection and it eventually failed.

... and a new Weboost booster is $200. I'm bummed!

I attempted a repair, but the traces on the circuit board are so tiny, it was impossible. Surface mount technology. I just don't have the tools or eyesight!

Problem solved:






Here's the Amazon source for the pigtail:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00COXZ2RM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Or here's a non-bulkhead version:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007G5LCCW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[TampShawn]

Since you all seem to be the pros here...I need a Weboost recommendation.

I am a girl with an SUV and find myself car camping out in the southern California desert a decent amount and need to stay connected for work. I am also directionally challenged and rely on Google Maps and Android Auto a lot (ok all the time).

I have both Verizon (personal) and Tmobile (work) cell phones... but the key is the Verizon phone. I also want a signal for safety when camping etc. I have a new SUV so I don't want to mark up my car or drill on it.

I can find this stuff used... but for conversation sake...

Should I get the weBoost Drive 4G-S Cell Phone Signal Booster Cradle
https://www.amazon.com/weBoost-Sign...d=1493511271&sr=8-3&keywords=weboost+car&th=1

Or that and something more... I am hearing a lot of talk about big antennas which wont work for me.

I am wondering about the 4GM since it has twice the signal boost and just the cradle (23 vs 50). I am not that worried about multiple users
https://www.amazon.com/weBoost-Sign...1493519547&sr=8-2&keywords=Wilson+460107&th=1

Another consideration would be if one system is a lot easier to move from car to car than another.

Thank you so much for your expertise!

 

[highdesertranger]

can't help you on the booster but as far as being directionally challenged remember the sun always rises in the east and sets in the west. shadows never fall to the south. pay attention to how you get somewhere and reverse course to get out. blindly follow electronic gizmos can be dangerous. highdesertranger

 

[jimindenver]

In the communication area I have a thread with links on a full booster set up with cradle, cable and Directional antenna for under $200. The cradle is te older version call the Wilson Sleek but it does exactly the same as the newer weBoost version.

I am often a considerable distance from a tower and have yet to be completely with out a signal. I use a app called network cell info lite that will show you the tower your phone is connected to and what direction to point the antenna. I use the website cellreception.com that shows the towers in the area. I have all four services and have always had service on at least two of them everywhere I have been.