Ignore the Mystery Devices
If lousy reception could be solved solely by a slip of adhesive and
aluminum, the world would be a much simpler place. In reality, reception
problems stem from the myriad topographical and atmospheric obstacles
radio frequencies encounter while traveling to/from your phone. The
first step to solving this problem is accepting that there might not be a
quick fix, and that it may take a lot of experimentation to find the
root.
Research the Causes
Unfortunately, the Achilles Heel of this setup is the network itself.
Compared to other forms of radio communication (i.e., Ham or CB radio),
cell phone networks are relatively underpowered when it comes to
broadcasting/receiving signal. The redundancy of tower placement combats
this problem, but it's still common for cell phone signal to be
interrupted by X-factors like:
- Physical Obstructions - Buildings, tunnels, valleys and even
mountains can all play a role in poor reception. Although the low power
connection between a phone and a tower can be maintained through a
number of solid materials, large obstructions and drastic differences in
elevation can cause serious problems.
- Electronic Interference - Cell phones are one of many devices
sharing the airwaves. It's not uncommon for other high power, high RF
devices (and even household electronics) to wreak havoc on the signal.
- Weather - Believe it or not, weather can play a big part in
reception. Dense cloud cover, lightning, and even humidity are just some
of the weather patterns that impact your wireless service.
- Phone Positioning - Sometimes the biggest problems stem from the
simplest things. Details like whether your phone has an internal
antenna (and whether the device is being held correctly) can prove to be
the difference between receiving or missing a call.
Change Location
No one likes having to run outside to make or receive a phone call.
But if installing signal amplification equipment isn't feasible, it's
likely that you'll have to think (and call) on your feet. Be it from
electronic interference by nearby electronics, or some other stationary
catalyst, be sure to remove yourself from the problem area before making
a call. If the problem stems from a physical obstruction like the walls
of a building, try to move to the perimeter and get close to a window.
Cell phone signal is at its strongest in open air settings where there's
a clear line of sight between the tower (often located on rooftops) and
the handset, so keep that in mind while looking for a new location.
Try an External Antenna
An external antenna is like a beefed up version of the one on your
phone. Although the name of the game is extending range with these
devices, they come with their share of hassles too. They're typically
large, come in high gain (flat areas) and low gain (wooded areas)
models, require an additional amplifier and adapters, and need to be
mounted outside. Since the phone needs to be physically attached to the
antenna to get the benefits, this setup can also put a hamper on
mobility. As such, external antennas aren't the greatest solution for
intermittent service issues. However, they're worth looking into if you
spend a lot of time in remote problem areas.
Invest in a Repeater
Repeaters are a common solution for urban settings. In short, the
device receives a weak signal via an external antenna, amplifies it, and
then rebroadcasts it over a given area through an internal antenna.
Despite being a solid solution for multiple users having signal
problems, repeaters have their issues too. Not only do they need at
least a nominal signal to work, but they tend to be expensive, and
require a some technical know-how to setup.
Switch Up the Phone Position
With the increased popularity of stylish, compact phones comes a host
of reception problems. Since most manufacturers have ditched external
antennas, it can take as little as a misplaced finger dump the signal
and drop a call. Only encounter signal problems after a call is
initiated? It could be your hand position that's causing the problem.
Try holding the phone with your weak hand (or using a headset) for a
day, and see if it that changes anything. You'd be surprised.
