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What is happening with 3G?
M

New Member

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10 Messages

Monday, August 22nd, 2022 10:16 PM

my router is in a closet

will the cell booster work? 

Tutor

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147 Messages

2 years ago

I would keep a wireless equipped router or a stand alone wi-fi base station at least 6 feet away from the new cell booster. The 2.4gHz wireless band for Wi-Fi is very close to at&t's booster device's service frequency and can cause interference that could halt activation of the booster or severely interfere with it's range. 

So in short yes, it can work wherever you have an ethernet patch cable to link the router to booster.  No if your router is Wi-Fi equipped and within just a few feet of the booster. There are other factors to consider too. 

Check out @OttoPylot 's signature links for his cell booster guide. Depending on the type of internet service you have and degree of flexibility in configuring your router will ultimately determine your ability to successfully install the Cell Booster.

Edit:  I recently discovered that simultaneous use of a home Ooma can complicate things. The Ooma VoIP service can complicate matters just on available encrypted tunneling protocols, but in my case: 

The DECT based radio in the Ooma unit itself is also right on top of the channel frequencies that the booster utilizes. I had to also space it away with an ethernet cable extension. Placing them on different heights on the shelves in various locations in the room got everything working just right after slight router tweaks. 

(edited)

Community Support

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232.9K Messages

2 years ago

Hello @wolfox, we're happy to help with information to help with your Cell booster connection. 

 

Thank you, @wolfox for the information provided. In addition, AT&T Cell Booster are mini cell towers that improve cell signals by using your current internet connection. The booster creates a 4G LTE cell signal for better indoor coverage, more reliable voice calling and texting, and more consistent data speeds. The AT&T Cell Booster requires the following:

• AT&T 4G LTE- capable wireless device

• AT&T wireless plan with online account management (existing AT&T or FN username/password required for Cell Booster portal access) 

• Ethernet connection to a modem or router, with fixed broadband service such as DSL, fiber, or cable (minimum 5Mbps downstream/1Mbps upstream).  All broadband providers are supported.  Satellite Internet is not supported.

• Ability to access a GPS signal using the supplied GPS antenna to verify location.

• Use in a location where existing cellular signal strength is weak.  

 

If you find that you are experiencing disruptions with your Cell booster connection, you can also use our Troubleshoot and Resolve tool to find personalized solutions. Start by signing into your account and clicking "Fix an issue". Meet us back here with the results of the troubleshooting tool if you have any questions. Thank you for contacting AT&T Community Forums. 

 

Alasani, AT&T Community Specialist 

ACE - Expert

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24.9K Messages

2 years ago

@mainemom  Where you place your router makes no difference as long as the Cell Booster is connected to it with an ethernet cable. Cell Booster (yellow WAN port) -> LAN port on the router.

The Cel Booster is not a WiFi device if that is what you are concerned about. All you need to do is maintain at least a 2'-3' distance between the Cell Booster and any WiFi or cellular device in case there is interference. I've tested the Cell Booster, physically connected to a mesh WiFi satellite at about 1' and there were no issues.

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