The Cell Phone Junkie

Last year, we reviewed the zBoost YX510 signal booster as a solution for homes or offices with poor reception.  In fact, its been the signal booster in operation ever since to keep my 1900MHz devices connected in my office surrounded by metal and contrete.  At $400, it was a tad on the expensive side, but since it does what it says it should, the cost was justified.  This year, Wi-Ex has come out with a new model, the zBoost YX540, known as the Metro.  The Metro builds on the success of the YX510, slims down the design, and lowers the price.  Available from Wi-Ex for $300.

In the Box

• zBoost Metro Base Unit
• Base Unit Antenna
• Window Mount Signal Antenna
• Base Unit Antenna
• Coax Cable (RG59-Mini, 40 feet)
• Power Supply
• Short Suction Cup Attachments
• Long Suction Cup Attachments

Specifications

• Downlink: .869 to .894 GHz and 1.93 to 1.99 GHz
• Uplink: .824 to .849 GHz and 1.85 to 1.91 GHz
• Networks: CDMA, GSM, GPRS, EDGE, EVDO, 1xRTT, UMTS, HSPA, 3G
• Max output power: PCS 24dBm uplink, 13dBm downlink, Cellular 26dBm uplink, 10dBm downlink
• System Gain: 54dB
• Power consumption: 3W standby; 7W max signal – 2.0A Max
• Base Unit Size and Weight 5” x 7” x 1.25” – 9 oz.
• Coverage: Over 1500 sq ft in ideal conditions

About the zBoost Metro

• Perfect for single story settings – no vertical separation needed
• Increases your indoor signal – up to 1500 sq feet
• Decreases dropped or missed calls
• Easy to set up – comes complete with everything needed
• No cradle or connections to your phone
• Extends phone battery life (uses less power when signal is stronger)
• Works with all phones and wireless data cards on 800 and 1900MHz (except Nextel, iDEN)
• Works with nearly all US carriers
• Protects the carrier network using patent-pending technology

Installation

Similar to the YX510, the Metro has 2 antennas that need to be installed, the signal antenna, and the base unit antenna.  Follow the setup instructions before permanently installing your antennas, and make sure that you can place calls near the window or wherever you plan to place the Signal Antenna. The base unit will only amplify signal that it receives at the signal antenna.  Using your cell phone, place a call near near the location you plan to install that signal antenna, to verify there is enough to be amplified.

Next, place the Signal Antenna on the interior of a window located in the area of best signal.  Choose either set of suction cups, to fasten to the Signal Antenna to your window.  A few tips: higher on a wall or window is usually better, use the long attachments in order to create different viewing angles, and the signal antenna must be installed vertically with the coax coming out from the bottom of the antenna.

Then, connect the Base Unit Antenna and coax to the Base Unit and place it where you need signal. For the widest possible signal area, it is recommended that you position the Base Unit near the middle of a room or mount it on an interior wall. This Base Unit uses an omni-directional antenna that delivers signal in a circular pattern around the antenna. The zBoost METRO does not require vertical separation; however, the Signal Antenna and Base Unit Antenna should have at least 8 feet of horizontal separation. Increasing separation of the 2 antennas will optimize zBoost performance.  The Base Unit can be mounted either directly on a wall or placed on a flat surface such as a bookshelf or desk.  Keep the base unit at least 2 feet away from other cords or metal objects, including other wireless devices such as routers.

Once everything is connected, plug in the power supply, and wait up to 60 seconds for the units to start broadcasting the signal.  Use the LED indicator and the chart below to ensure your unit is functioning properly.  Check the User Manual should you experience any issues with your Metro.

Phone signal levels with Metro off.

Phone Signal levels with Metro on.

Screen shot of iPhone 4 next to Metro.

dBm reading of Blackberry Bold next to Metro.

Here is an overview of the Metro, along with the installation and some real world testing.

Use and Results
The Metro can cover approximately 1500 square feet based on signal level, placement of the antennas and building construction. My tests yielded much less, giving me reliable coverage throughout approximately 500 square feet of office space with metal stud walls.  I did notice that the dBm reading dropped off rather quickly as I got more than a few feet from the base antenna.  Also, having the phone in my hand, pocket or in-between me and the base dropped the reading drastically.  Using the Sprint Blackberry Bold 9650 and the AT&T iPhone 4, signal increases when using the Metro are noticeable, providing a 15-20dBm increase.  Working in an area that has constantly been a struggle for me with AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile, the Metro reliably allows me to make and receive phone calls, as well as use the data connection on 1900mhz devices. The unit also enhances the 850mhz band, but this difference was less noticeable for me, as the Verizon service in my area is quite good.

Overall
For $300, the zBoost Metro Cell Phone Signal Booster from Wi-Ex is a great home or office solution for those who need a “boost”.  The Metro works as advertised, and allows phones to be used in areas that have poor service more reliably.  The device used in this review was provided by Wi-Ex.