If your signal booster starts oscillating, it means that the outside and inside antennas are too close, causing a feedback loop that disrupts the booster's operation[1][3][5][7]. Oscillation can damage the cellular network, so the FCC requires boosters to automatically detect it and take corrective action, such as reducing power or shutting down[1][3]. A solid red light on the amplifier often indicates that oscillation has occurred[3].
Here's how to troubleshoot and fix oscillation issues:
1. Increase antenna separation: Increasing the distance between the outside (donor) antenna and the inside (broadcast) antenna is the primary solution[3][5][10]. Vertical separation is typically more effective than horizontal separation[10]. Antennas may need to be at least 15 meters apart horizontally, or 6 meters vertically[7].
2. Adjust gain settings: Some boosters have adjustable gain settings. Reducing the gain slightly might stabilize the signal, but be aware that it could also reduce the coverage area[2][3][4]. If your booster has Automatic Gain Control (AGC), try resetting the booster by unplugging it for a few minutes and then reconnecting it[2].
3. Change antenna type: If you're using an omnidirectional antenna (which sends signals in all directions), consider switching to a directional antenna that focuses the signal in one direction[10]. Ensure that the two antennas do not face one another[10].
4. Use attenuators or isolation pads: Install a signal attenuator or isolation pad to reduce the power level of the boosted signal sent to the external antenna[5].
5. Check for obstructions: Ensure that there are no obstructions blocking the signal between the antennas[2].
6. Power cycle or reset: Unplug the signal booster from the power source, wait a minute, and then plug it back in[2]. Some boosters have a factory reset option to return the device to its original settings[2][4]. Refer to the user manual for instructions[2].
7. Contact customer support: If problems persist after troubleshooting, contact the manufacturer's customer support for assistance[2].
[1] https://www.weboost.com/blog/antenna-separation-and-why-its-important
[2] https://www.mobilesignalguru.com/mt/how-to-troubleshoot/
[3] https://www.wilsonpro.com/blog/commercial-cell-phone-signal-booster-oscillation-and-overload
[4] https://www.siglift.in/blog/signal-booster-issues
[5] https://mobilebooster.co.nz/how-to-troubleshoot-common-mobile-signal-booster-issues/
[6] https://www.signalbooster.com/blogs/news/causes-of-weak-signal-even-after-installing-cell-phone-booster
[7] https://www.boltontechnical.co.za/blogs/news/oscillation-and-overload
[8] https://www.ubersignal.com/blogs/articles/cell-phone-signal-booster-guide
[9] https://novotech.com/pages/signal-booster-troubleshoot
[10] https://www.surecallboosters.ca/post/how-to-avoid-signal-oscillation-with-your-booster
[11] https://www.wilsonamplifiers.com/blog/oscillation-and-overload/