How to Check If a Signal Booster Is Actually Working or Not?
If you’ve recently installed a mobile signal booster, the big question is: Is it actually working?
Signal boosters are designed to amplify weak mobile signals, offering better voice quality and fewer dropped calls. But many users remain unsure whether their investment is delivering the promised results. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the practical and technical methods to determine if your Mobiboost signal booster is performing as it should.
Why Checking Signal Booster Performance Matters
Whether you're using a 4G LTE signal booster, a 5G mobile repeater, or a cellular network extender, knowing that your device works optimally ensures:
● Enhanced call clarity
● Reduced dropped calls
● Seamless indoor connectivity
● Maximum return on investment
1. Use Field Test Mode on Your Phone
Every smartphone has a hidden mode known as Field Test Mode, which lets you check RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) or RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) in decibels (dBm).
For iPhone:
- Dial *3001#12345#* and press call.
- Tap "Serving Cell Meas".
- Look for values like RSRP or RSSI.
For Android:
- Go to Settings > About Phone > Status > SIM Status or Network.
- Look for signal strength measured in dBm.
Ideal Range:
● Good: -50 to -70 dBm
● Moderate: -70 to -90 dBm
● Poor: -91 to -110 dBm
Pro Tip: Measure your signal strength before and after installing your Mobiboost unit.
2. Perform a Speed Test (for Reference Only)
While Mobiboost is not designed to boost data speeds, improved signal strength can stabilize your connection. Use speed test apps like Speedtest by Ookla or Fast.com to observe consistency rather than outright speed increases.
Key Metrics to Check:
● Latency (Ping): Lower is better for call stability
● Connection Consistency: Fewer connection drops indicate better signal stability
3. Check Number of Signal Bars (But Don’t Rely Entirely On It)
Signal bars offer a general visual cue, but they aren't always reliable. They vary by manufacturer and can be misleading. Instead, use it as a quick comparison tool.
Check in multiple spots: Walk around your house or office and observe the bar changes in previously weak zones.
4. Test Call Quality and Stability
Make phone calls in areas that were previously dead zones:
● Are your calls clearer?
● Fewer call drops?
● No more static or robotic voice?
Use call quality scoring apps like RootMetrics or Network Cell Info Lite to objectively evaluate call performance.
5. Monitor Data Usage Behavior
When signal strength improves, devices often switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data. If you notice:
● Faster app updates
● Seamless streaming
● Increased mobile data usage
It’s likely a result of better signal reliability, though not due to faster speeds.
6. LED Indicator on Your Signal Booster
Most Mobiboost models have LED status indicators:
● Green/Blue Light: All systems go
● Red or Flashing Light: Indicates issues like oscillation, overloading, or improper setup
Tip: Refer to your Mobiboost installation manual for detailed LED meanings.
7. Analyze Coverage Area
Is the booster covering all intended zones? You can:
● Use a signal mapping app to track coverage
● Create a before and after floorplan heatmap
● Check if rooms that previously had no signal now have strong reception
8. Perform External Antenna Orientation Check
The direction of your external antenna plays a crucial role. It should face the nearest mobile tower. Use tools like:
● CellMapper.net
● OpenSignal App
Reposition if needed for maximum efficiency.
9. Consult Your Carrier
If issues persist:
● Confirm the booster is carrier-approved
● Check if your plan supports enhanced indoor signals
● Ask your provider to test your booster remotely (if supported)
Additional Tips to Maximize Booster Performance
● Keep indoor antennas away from large metal appliances
● Maintain distance between outdoor and indoor units
● Avoid signal interference from Wi-Fi routers
Recommended Mobiboost Products
● Seguro SSG705 (CDMA/DCS/3G/4G)
● Seguro SSG705M (Multi-band)
● Seguro SSG703 (2G/3G)
● Lintratek LTK703 (GSM/WCDMA)
Explore more Mobiboost Signal Boosters to find the right fit for your home or office.
FAQs: Common Concerns About Signal Boosters
Q1: Why is my signal strength not improving after installation?
There could be several reasons: the external antenna may not be correctly aligned toward the nearest cell tower, the indoor and outdoor antennas might be placed too close to each other causing signal feedback, or the booster may not support the frequency bands used by your mobile carrier. Always ensure the setup matches your carrier's network requirements..
Q2: Do signal boosters work during power outages?
Not unless connected to a backup power source like a UPS.
Q3: Can I use Mobiboost in my car or RV?
Mobiboost boosters are designed specifically for fixed indoor use such as homes, offices, and commercial spaces. They are not intended for use in vehicles.
Q4: Can a signal booster damage my phone?
No, signal boosters are regulated and safe. They receive, amplify, and rebroadcast signals without causing harm to your device.
Q5: Do Mobiboost devices support all carriers in India?
Yes, Mobiboost supports all major Indian carriers, but ensure your selected model matches your network band.
Q6: How long does it take to see improvement after installation?
Signal improvements are usually visible immediately after proper installation and setup.
Q7: Is it legal to use Mobiboost in India?
Yes, all Mobiboost products comply with the norms set by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and are safe for use.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check if a signal booster is working is key to optimizing your mobile connectivity. From field test readings to real-time call improvements, these steps ensure you get the most out of your Mobiboost investment. Remember, a well-installed booster paired with smart usage can make the difference between frustrating dead zones and flawless communication.
If you're still unsure, contact our support team for a free diagnostic. At Mobiboost, we don't just boost your signal—we boost your confidence in staying connected.
