Smart tests new signal booster for home use

MANILA, Philippines - Smart Communications Inc. is testing a device to address dead spots and improve mobile reception inside homes and offices.

Smart co-founder and chief wireless advisor Orlando Vea said the globally-recognized signal-boosting device known as Cel-Fi could serve as personal cell site and improve mobile reception for voice and data in enclosed spaces inside homes and offices.

“Cel-Fi offers a lot of promise because it functions much like a personal cell site and boost the network performance in corners where signal strength is challenged,” Vea stressed.

He pointed out that Smart has started testing on its network the use of that eliminates the so-called dead spots.

Indoor dead spots may be attributed to nearby physical obstructions causing signal degradation, among other reasons, and result in dropped calls, delayed messages and crawling upload and download speeds.

The Cel-Fi addresses this situation by tapping at least one bar of available 3G signal and amplifying it, effectively boosting both 3G and 4G HSPA+ mobile connectivity throughout a specific area.

“As the leader in wireless services, Smart has continually been on the lookout for new technologies that can enhance the consumers’ mobile experience and offer the best value for them,” he said.

The user-friendly device is designed by US-based Nextivity and could handle 60 simultaneous calls and support high-speed connections reaching 42 Mbps in an area of up to 1,200 sq. m., making it ideal for homes and small offices.

A set of Cel-Fi consists of a window unit to be stationed at a spot where the strongest signal from the network carrier is received as well as the coverage unit positioned at the center of the house or a building.

When powered up, the window unit relays whatever signal it receives to the coverage unit, which then cleans the signal, converts it and amplifies it throughout the whole area.

The Cel-Fi is a plug-and-play device and may be installed in minutes with no need for cables, antennas or configuration. It maximizes coverage area and makes sure it does not interfere with mobile operator networks or impede the signals of other subscribers.

The Cel-Fi complies with the strict standards of the Federal Communications Commission and is used by 120 mobile operators around the world.