Knowledge Base

How large an area in my building will one cell signal booster cover?

Cell signal booster coverage is calculated mathematically, starting with the outside signal strength, plus the gain of the cell signal booster and antennas, less the loss of the coax cable and any splitters. The result of this calculation is then applied to an engineering formula to determine the radius of signal coverage the inside antenna(s) will provide, in square feet.

The math calculates for “open air” coverage—a building interior without walls or other obstructions. Interior walls made of drywall will have some effect on the coverage area; concrete walls even more so. The choice of inside antenna will also play a role: Ceiling-mounted dome antennas will provide a different coverage pattern than wall-mounted panel antennas.

The company you approach to design a cellular booster system for your business should be able to calculate your expected coverage and provide you the figures for any of the systems you are considering. If they are unable to provide you with this information, or can only give you a “rough guess,” then you should should look for a different company who has the expertise and can give you firm coverage figures.

If you’d like to calculate your signal booster system’s potential coverage, please speak to one of the design engineers at Powerful Signal, or request a free, custom quote for your building.