Selecting the Right Amplifier for Your Application
FAQ: Selecting the Right Amplifier for Your Application
What is the difference between a direct connect amplifier and an amplifier/repeater?
All Digital Antenna amplifiers are dual band 3 watt variable gain RF amplifiers. They are all FCC approved to be used with all carriers in the USA and Canada. The DA4000 is a direct connect amplifier and is used with a cell phone adapter cable. The DA4000SBR and DA4000MR are wireless amplifier/repeaters that are used with an inside antenna to re-broadcast the signal to your cell phone and an outside antenna to communicate with the cell tower.
The DA4000SBR (60dB gain) system requires the outside and inside antennas to be separated a minimum of 40', with an exterior wall and roof structure between the antennas. This system provides up to 5,000 square feet of interior coverage based upon outside cell signal strength. The weaker the cell signal is outside, the less coverage area you will have inside.
The DA4000MR (38dB gain) system requires outside and inside antennas to be separated a minimum of 2’ (DA4KMR-10A) when installed with a metal car roof between antennas, or a minimum of 15’ and up to 20’ (DA4KMR-30U) with an exterior wall and roof structure between the antennas. The DA4000MR systems provide up to 1,000 square feet, one room interior coverage or a standard car interior (depending upon outside cell signal). With the DA4000MR system, the inside antenna must be visible and cannot be placed behind an object.
DA4000 Series Amplifiers
FAQ: DA4000 Series Amplifiers
Can I make the DA4000 Dual Band Amplifier a repeater by adding an inside antenna?
No, the DA4000 is a direct connect unit only and must be physically connected to your cell phone or cellular device with the appropriate cable.
How do I connect my cell phone to the DA4000?
Most phones with an external antenna port can be connected directly into the amplifier. The amplifier can also be connected to a hands-free car kit, PBX, Tellular or any cellular system that has an external antenna port.
There is no adapter cable for my phone and I have a DA4000. What do I do?
The cell phone manufacturers determine which phones have antenna ports. If the phone is not designed with a port, you must change to a cell phone that has an antenna port or use a wireless amplifier/repeater.
Can I use the DA4000SBR in a car?
No, you cannot use the DA4000SBR in a car due to the minimum separation of 40' or greater between the outside and inside antenna. Use Model # DA4KMR-10A in a car when a metal roof is separating the inside and outside antennas, or use the DA4000 in a car with a convertible top or any application where you cannot meet separation requirements.
Why can I only use your antennas and cables with the DA4000, DA4000MR or DA4000SBR?
The DA4000, DA4000MR and DA4000SBR are high performance, technologically advanced RF amplifiers. They are tested as a system and provide performance specified by the FCC approval. An improperly matched antenna (one with a high SWR) or cable can damage the amplifier unit or cause it to operate in violation of FCC specifications, as well as voiding the warranty. USING UNAUTHORIZED EQUIPMENT WITH THE DA4000, DA4000MR OR DA4000SBR VOIDS THE WARRANTY.
Can I use the amplifier with my existing external cellular antenna?
The FCC requires that the amplifier only be used with Digital Antenna brand cellular antennas or an antenna authorized by Digital Antenna, Inc.
Can I hard wire the 12 VDC power connection?
Yes, simply cut off the lighter plug and be certain that the center contact of the amplifier is plus (+).
Does the amplifier boost in both transmit and receive?
Yes, it is a fully duplexed linear RF amplifier.
DA4000MR Series Amplifier/Repeaters (38 dB Gain)
FAQ: DA4000MR Series Amplifier/Repeaters (38 dB Gain)
What is the difference between the DA4KMR-30U and DA4KMR-10A?
The MR-30U and MR-10A have the same 38 dB amplifier/repeater unit but different antennas and cable.
The DA4KMR-10A includes an outside magnetic mount antenna that MUST be mounted on the center metal roof of the car. This blocks the cell signal from reaching the included inside antenna. The DA4KMR-10A system can only be used with the included antennas and power supply or a cellular antenna manufactured by Digital Antenna.
The DA4KMR-30U includes a 9dB gain 18" fiberglass antenna that is used on a boat, house or RV. This antenna must be 15' to 20' away from the inside antenna and separated by a roof/wall structure. The DA4KMR-30U system can only be used with the included antennas and power supply, or with a cellular antenna manufactured by Digital Antenna.
I am using the DA4KMR-30U. Why don’t I have reception in the next room?
The DA4000MR amplifier does not transmit through walls. 38 dB is not enough gain to penetrate a wall. Based upon outside signal strength, the MR-30U will amplify one room or in free air up to 1,000 square feet. The inside antenna for all applications should be placed in an open area not in a cabinet or under a seat.
Where is the best location to install the inside antenna on the DA4000MR?
Try to locate the inside antenna as central to the desired operation area as possible. The inside antenna should be located away from metal objects and electronics. The inside antenna must be located in a visible location and not behind an object.
I am using the DA4KMR-10A in my car. Why doesn’t it amplify my house when the car is in the garage?
The signal from the inside antenna should never reach the outside antenna. The signal from the inside antenna amplifies inside the vehicle only and is not made to amplify beyond the vehicle.
When traveling, why do I have to be very close to the inside antenna to receive a signal increase in some areas ?
In a car, as you travel through poor signal areas, you will find the cell phone works only closer to the inside antenna. The coverage area decreases as the signal outside weakens. If the cell phone antenna is touching the MR inside antenna, the performance will be closer to that of the DA4000 direct connect amplifier.
DA4000SBR Series Amplifier/Repeaters (60 dB Gain)
FAQ: DA4000SBR Series Amplifier/Repeaters (60 dB Gain)
Should the DA4000SBR be professionally installed?
We highly recommend installation by an individual experienced with high frequency RF equipment. The instruction manual provides an individual with all information necessary for installation; however, the instruction manual must be read and thoroughly understood prior to beginning the installation.
Why do I have to install the outside and inside antenna so far apart?
To achieve the greatest coverage area, the DA4000SBR has a gain of 60dB re-transmitting from the inside antennas. The outside antenna can radiate up to 3 watts. The inside and outside antennas must be isolated from each other so they do not have harmful feedback into each other. The inside and outside antennas MUST be separated by 40', with an exterior wall and roof structure between the antennas.
I installed the inside and outside antenna 40' apart. Why is the system not performing?
In some applications, the inside and outside antenna may require a separation greater than 40'. If you do not have the proper attenuation between the two antennas, more distance is required between the antennas. A fiberglass wall, boat deck, non-insulated exterior wall or glass doors do not equal a concrete or framed wall with foil insulation. Therefore, the separation between antennas must be greater. Poor signal or no signal outside and improper connectors or cable will also result in poor or no performance.
Inside and Outside Antenna Separation
FAQ: Inside and Outside Antenna Separation
Do I have to install the outside antenna, outside?
Yes, the outside antenna must be installed outside of the yacht, RV, home or office. The outside antenna must be installed outside (with the proper antenna separation based upon model selected), with an exterior wall between the outside and inside antennas and away from windows. It must be installed 6 meters horizontally away from a person.
What happens if I do not install the outside and inside antenna far enough apart?
The outside and inside antenna must be installed with the proper separation, with an exterior wall and roof structure between the antennas. A minimum of 40' of separation (DA4000SBR) or (2’ and metal car roof) or 20’ (fiberglass boat wall) separation (DA4000MR) between the antennas, plus an exterior wall/roof structure. If you do not have the proper attenuation, more distance is required between the antennas. A fiberglass wall, i.e., a boat deck, does not equal a home or office wall. Therefore, the separation between antennas must be greater. If the antennas are not properly separated, the DA4000SBR and DA4000MR amplifier will be damaged and the warranty voided.
Is a window enough of a separation between the outside and inside antenna?
No, a window does not provide the attenuation required. If you do not have the proper attenuation, more distance is required between the antennas. A window does not equal a home or office wall. Therefore, the separation between antennas must be greater.
Do I ever need more than 40' of separation between the two antennas?
Yes, if you do not have proper attenuation between the inside and outside antennas plus the wall/roof structure, you will need to place the antennas farther apart.
On my boat, I installed the two antennas 40' apart or more. Why is the light turning red and not green?
A fiberglass wall, i.e., boat deck or bulkhead, does not equal a home or office wall for RF attenuation. Therefore, the separation between antennas must be greater. Marine installations should always be verified with a network analyzer such as an Anritsu Sitemaster.
I have a 24’ boat. Why can’t I use the DA4000MR or DA4000SBR?
There is no possibility of achieving the proper attenuation between the outside and inside antennas on a 24’ fiberglass boat. Use the DA4000 direct connect amplifier on this size boat.
LED Indicator Light
FAQ: LED Indicator Light
What should I do if the light is red on the DA4000SBR?
Immediately turn the DA4000SBR amplifier unit to the off position. A constant red light will damage the unit and may void the warranty. Relocate the two antennas for proper RF attenuation.
Can I bring the two antennas close together and try to make the light red?
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MAKE THE LIGHT TURN RED! This will damage the amplifier and void the warranty.
The light does not change on the DA4000MR or DA4000SBR. Is it working?
Yes, it is possible that the light will not visibly change with PCS, GSM 1900 and other phones operating on 1900 MHz. This is due to the nature of the phones' transmissions being so fast that your eye cannot see the light change.
What color should the light be after installation?
The light must be green after installation, and when no cell phone is in use. If the light is not green after installation and no cell phone is being used, the two antennas must be relocated farther apart from each other.
Inside Antenna
FAQ: Inside Antenna
Where is the best location to install the inside antenna on the DA4000SBR?
Try to locate the inside antenna as central to the desired operation area as possible. The inside antenna should be located away from metal objects and electronics. The inside antenna must be located a minimum of 12” from the DA4000SBR amplifier unit. The antenna can be located farther away and extended with the proper coaxial cable.
Where is the best location to install the inside antenna on the DA4000MR?
Try to locate the inside antenna as central to the desired operation area as possible. The inside antenna should be located away from metal objects and electronics. The inside antenna must be located in a visible location and not behind an object. The antenna can be located farther away and extended with the proper coaxial cable.
Can I extend the inside antenna cable?
Yes, the inside antenna cable can be extended up to 10’ with Digital Antenna’s exclusive DA340 or RG-8X cable. Contact your local dealer.
How far should the inside white antenna be from the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR amplifier box?
The inside antenna must be located a minimum of 12” from the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR amplifier unit. The antenna can be located farther away and extended with the proper coaxial cable.
Can I use a different inside antenna?
Only Digital Antenna authorized products may be used with the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR system. Using unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR system will harm the system, void the warranty and can be detected in the event of a failure.
I am next to the white inside antenna, but when I move 1’ away, it does not work. Why?
The most likely possibility is the system is improperly installed and has a low level oscillation that desensitizes the receiver electronics of the cell phone. To correct this, relocate the positions of the outside and inside antennas, making them farther apart from each other.
Another possibility is that the outside antenna is mounted in an area that has a very marginal signal. To correct this, relocate the outside antenna to an area that has more signal as indicated by your cell phone. Also, check all connectors and cable. Connectors should be securely connected to the amplifier and antenna. NEVER USE A TOOL TO TIGHTEN THE CONNECTORS!
Outside Antenna
FAQ: Outside Antenna
What other cellular antenna can I use with your amplifier and amplifier/repeaters?
Any of Digital Antenna’s dual band cellular antennas may be used with the DA4000, DA4000MR and DA4000SBR system. They are available in many mounting styles and in a white or black high gloss finish.
Can I use an existing antenna and cable with the DA4000MR or DA4000SBR?
Yes, if it is a dual band cellular antenna manufactured by Digital Antenna Inc. Only Digital Antenna authorized products may be used with the DA4000SBR system. Using unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR will harm the system, void the warranty and can be detected in the event of a failure.
Can I install the outside or inside antenna upside down?
Antenna patterns vary between the top and bottom lobes. For maximum coverage of the DA4000MR or DA4000SBR system, the antennas must be installed with the connectors on the bottom in a vertical position.
Where is the best place to install the outside antenna?
The fiberglass antenna rod must be 3’ away from metal and 6 meters horizontally away from persons, in a location high enough to be free from any obstructions, and in the strongest signal area as indicated by your cell phone.
Can I install the outside antenna next to a metal pole? How far does the antenna have to be mounted from other metal objects?
The outside antenna can be mounted on a metal pole, but the fiberglass rod can not be next to metal. The outside antenna fiberglass rod must be at least 1 meter away from any metal object, including a tin roof. For maximum performance, the outside antenna should be clear of all obstructions by 6'.
Can I use a yagi antenna with the DA4000MR or DA4000SBR?
In poor signal areas, you may have to use a yagi antenna to receive a suitable signal from the tower. Using a yagi will limit the repeater unit to only operate on a single band; therefore, it will be necessary to determine whether you want to use the high or low band prior to choosing the yagi. Another option is to use two yagi antennas, one low band and one high band, in combination with our DA-2100 Combiner. Your dealer can help you choose a suitable yagi antenna.
Poor Signal Quality
FAQ: Poor Signal Quality
Why do I only have a small coverage area?
The most likely possibility is that the system is improperly installed and has a low level oscillation that desensitizes the receiver electronics of the cell phone. To correct this, relocate the positions of the outside and inside antennas, making them farther apart from each other.
Another possibility is that the outside antenna is mounted in an area that has a very marginal signal. To correct this, relocate the outside antenna to an area that has more signal as indicated by your cell phone. Also, check all connectors and cable. Connectors should be securely connected to the amplifier and antenna. NEVER USE A TOOL TO TIGHTEN THE CONNECTORS!
I have no signal outside. Will the DA4000SBR help me?
You must receive at least a -90 dB signal from the tower to operate the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR system. In poor signal areas, you must use a yagi antenna to receive a suitable signal from the tower. Using a yagi will limit the repeater unit to only operate on a single band; therefore, it will be necessary to determine whether you want to use the high or low band prior to choosing the yagi. Another option is to use two yagi antennas, one low band and one high band, in combination with our DA-2100 Combiner. Your dealer can help you choose a suitable yagi antenna.
Cable and Connectors
FAQ: Cable and Connectors
Why does the DA4000SBR include 50’ of cable?
For the average installation, this will be sufficient for the required 40' of separation. Longer cables in 75’ and 100’ lengths are available for purchase through your dealer.
I need more cable to install the outside antenna. What cable should I use?
Digital Antenna manufactures pre-assembled cables in 75’ and 100’ lengths. This low loss PowerMax cable is designed to be used with the PowerMax amplifier and repeater product line. The only suitable replacement is LMR series cables (LMR400 or LMR600).
When I was installing the cable the connector fell off. What do I do?
Only replace a connector with the proper type for the cable and with the proper crimping tool to assure a factory quality connection. NEVER replace a connector with a sub-standard quick connect style connector. NEVER try to push a connector back on the cable; a new connector is required.
Can I use the cable that is already installed on my boat or in my house?
It is best to use the cable included in the system. The DA4000MR and DA4000SBR includes premium low loss cable with a factory attached connector. The system will not work with improper cable. Only 50 Ohm Digital Antenna cellular cable or Times Microwave LMR equivalent cable can be used. Check cable specifications and choose the proper cable type based upon cable run length. If the cable run is too long with the improper cable type, all signal will be lost in the cable.
DO NOT USE RG58 cable for cellular! DO NOT USE TV or satellite cable (such as RG6) for cellular!
What type of connectors can I use?
ONLY USE CONNECTORS RATED FOR CELLULAR FREQUENCIES! Mini-UHF, N-type, TNC and SMA are rated for cellular frequencies. PL-259 or UHF connectors are not rated for cellular frequencies. F-type connectors are 75 ohm and should never be used for cellular. DO NOT USE UHF or F-TYPE CONNECTORS FOR CELLULAR!
What happens if I use a PL-259 or UHF connector with a cellular amplifier or amplifier/repeater?
A PL-259 or UHF connector is rated for a maximum of 300 MHz. Cellular frequencies are 800 and 1900 MHz. A PL-259 or UHF connector will leak 80% or more of the RF signal. No signal will get to the antenna, and RF frequency leaking out of the connector will cause an oscillation.
FCC and Cellular Carriers
FAQ: FCC and Cellular Carriers
Does the owner of this equipment (installed location) require an FCC license to operate the repeater?
No, neither the user nor the installer needs an FCC license. All of our products are FCC approved. In the instruction manual, you will find guidelines to follow to comply with all FCC requirements, such as proper separation between antennas, and persons must be 6 meters horizontally away from outside antenna.
Do the cellular providers accept the use of cellular repeaters?
Not all amplifiers are tower friendly. All of our amplifiers have dynamic variable gain control so that the tower is never overpowered. We have approval from Cingular, Verizon and Sprint. We are the only manufacturer with these approvals.
Although the carriers own the frequencies that they operate on, are they permitting others to do the same with the repeaters?
The cell phone, which is paid for by the customer, is transmitting on the specified frequency, not the repeater. The repeater is simply improving the signals. The repeater amplifies only the signal of the cell phone that is authorized to be used at the specific frequency.
If a cellular repeater is installed and causes interference that cannot be corrected, will the FCC or others require it to be removed?
If a repeater is not installed properly, it can create an oscillation that can cause interference on that frequency. The FCC can find this oscillation and require it to be corrected. Digital Antenna repeaters have a power down circuit that will lower the gain of the amplifier when an oscillation is detected. If the oscillation is very strong, it can burn out the amplifier chip. PROPER INSTALLATION IS VERY IMPORTANT. Standard high frequency installation guidelines should be used for the proper cabling, separation and connectors. Improper connectors like PL259s can cause many problems.
Why can I only use your antennas and cables with the DA4000, DA4000MR or DA4000SBR?
The DA4000, DA4000MR and DA4000SBR are high performance, technologically advanced RF amplifiers. They are tested as a system and provide performance specified by the FCC approval. An improperly matched antenna (one with a high SWR) or cable can damage the amplifier unit, cause it to operate in violation of FCC specifications and void the warranty.
Can I use the amplifier with my existing external cellular antenna?
The FCC requires that the amplifier only be used with Digital Antenna brand cellular antennas or an antenna authorized by Digital Antenna, Inc.
General Questions
FAQ: General Questions
Can I leave your amplifier or amplifier/repeater on all the time?
All Digital Antenna amplifiers can remain on all the time; however, do not leave the automobile amplifier on if the vehicle is not going to be used for more than 1 week.
There is no adapter cable for my phone. What do I do?
The cell phone manufacturers determine which phones have antenna ports. If the phone is not designed with a port, you must change to a cell phone that has an antenna port or use a wireless amplifier/repeater.
Can I buy just the amplifier/repeater unit?
No, the DA4000SBR and DA4000MR amplifiers are sold and tested as a system. The antennas and cable are a tuned system. Poorly tuned antennas may cause system failure. Only Digital Antenna authorized products may be used with the DA4000SBR and DA4000MR systems. Using unauthorized equipment with the DA4000SBR and DA4000MR systems will harm the system, void the warranty and can be detected in the event of a failure.
I have tech questions. Who do I contact?
Your first level of technical support is your dealer. If your dealer cannot answer your questions, send your inquiry via e-mail to support@digitalantenna.com.
Can I return the unit for a refund after it is installed if I cannot get it to work?
We cannot credit a unit that has been installed. Every product that we ship is 100% tested by Digital Antenna and working prior to shipping. We offer a full warranty on materials and workmanship. However, damages such as altered connectors and kinked cable can happed during installation and will cause a non-functional unit. If you are unsure if this product will work for you in your situation call your dealer for more information.
I need installation help. Who do I contact?
Contact your dealer. Your dealer has the expertise to assist you with installation questions and can provide you with any accessories needed for your custom installation. The dealer may also be able to direct you to a technician to verify your installation.
Can I use the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR for Nextel?
No, the DA4000SBR or DA4000MR amplifiers are designed for use with all cellular systems in the USA and Canada, except Nextel’s iDEN network. For Nextel, use our DA4000N 3 Watt Dual Band Direct Connect Amplifier.
Can I use a Digital Antenna amplifier in Europe?
Digital Antenna amplifier models DA4000, DA4KMR-10A, DA4KMR-30U and DA4KSBR-50U operate on the 800 and 1900 MHz cellular bands. These models do not operate on iDEN, Nextel or European GSM networks. Our DA4000N amplifier operates on the iDEN network. We currently do not manufacture an amplifier for the European GSM network.
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