Cell phone signal boosters are used to strengthen and increase the reach of cellular networks in areas with weak or unreliable cell signals. These devices are commonly used in rural areas and offices or industrial buildings that require fast data speeds and reliable call quality.
Like other wireless technologies, cell phone signal boosters are subject to regulations under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As a manufacturer, you must ensure your device complies with all relevant FCC standards in order to gain market access.
Below, we’ve explained the FCC regulations that apply to signal booster devices, as well as the basics of the testing and certification process.
To request a free quote for testing and certifying your device, or to ask our engineers a question about the certification process, contact us online or call us at
info@hbcompliance.com, (480) 684-2969.
Cell Phone Signal Boosters Overview
Cell phone signal boosters, also known as cellular repeaters, are devices that enhance wireless signal strength in specific areas. These devices typically work by capturing weak signals through an external antenna, amplifying them, and then rebroadcasting the improved signals via an internal antenna.
Signal boosters are commonly used in places where cellular signals are blocked by buildings or terrain or in remote locations with weak reception due to distance from cell towers.
There are two main types of cellular signal boosters. Consumer signal boosters are designed for homes, small offices, and vehicles, helping to improve cellular signals for individual users or small groups. Industrial signal boosters, on the other hand, are intended for large buildings, stadiums, commercial spaces, and other expansive environments to boost cell coverage for multiple users simultaneously.
Since signal boosters operate on licensed frequencies used by mobile carriers, poorly-designed boosters can sometimes cause interference, potentially disrupting cellular communications. To minimize interference risks, the FCC enforces specific regulations on these devices, which must be met for them to be legally sold in the United States.
What FCC Regulations Apply to Signal Booster Devices?
Signal boosters operating on cellular frequencies are subject to several FCC regulations, mainly under FCC Part 20 and FCC Part 15:
- FCC Part 20. FCC Part 20 outlines requirements for devices that operate on licensed cellular bands. Signal boosters must meet the standards set out in Part 20 in order to avoid causing interference with cellular networks. Consumer and industrial cell phone signal boosters are both subject to Part 20 rules, with separate requirements for each device type.
- FCC Part 15. FCC Part 15 applies to radio frequency devices. While the majority of cellular booster devices operate on licensed frequencies, some devices may also be subject to FCC Part 15 rules.
In addition to FCC compliance, cellular signal boosters sold to consumers must be registered with mobile carriers. Our team can provide further information about all testing and regulatory requirements for your signal booster device.
How do they work?
A cell phone signal booster typically consists of three main components:
- Outdoor antenna: This antenna receives the weak cellular signal from the nearest cell tower.
- Indoor antenna: This antenna broadcasts the amplified signal throughout the desired area, such as a home or office.
- Booster: This device amplifies the signal received by the outdoor antenna and transmits it to the indoor antenna.
Types of signal boosters:
- Home signal boosters: These are designed to improve cellular signal throughout an entire home or office. They are typically larger and more powerful than other types of boosters.
- Vehicle signal boosters: These are designed to improve cellular signal in vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and RVs. They are typically smaller and more portable than home signal boosters.
- Personal signal boosters: These are small, portable devices that can be used to boost signal for a single device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
Benefits of using a signal booster:
- Improved call quality: Fewer dropped calls and clearer voice quality.
- Faster data speeds: Increased data transfer rates for browsing, streaming, and downloading.
- Reliable connectivity: Consistent signal in areas where it was previously weak or nonexistent.
FCC Testing & Certification for Cell Signal Boosters
To market a signal booster device legally, your device must complete the FCC’s testing and certification process. This process ensures that the device fully complies with technical and regulatory requirements necessary to avoid interfering with cellular communications.
The FCC testing and certification process for cellular signal boosters typically involves the following steps:
- Pre-testing compliance review. Testing your device during the design phase can identify potential compliance issues and allow necessary changes without the costs associated with late-stage revisions and design modifications.
- Laboratory compliance testing. Signal boosters must undergo compliance testing before entering the market. The device under test (DUT) is tested to assess its EMC performance, output power, frequency accuracy and overall function. The purpose of lab testing is to verify that a signal booster will not interfere with other, licensed cellular networks, and to ensure it operates within FCC limits.
- Filing for FCC certification. After the device passes testing, manufacturers submit an application for certification with the FCC. This application includes a detailed technical file showing the device’s testing results, design and performance.
- Grant of Equipment Authorization. Devices that pass testing and meet requirements are issued a Grant of Equipment Authorization, allowing them to be legally marketed in the United States. Authorized devices receive an FCC ID and can enter the market.
Our guide to the FCC certification process provides more information about the steps involved in completing FCC testing and bringing your device to market.
Contact Us About FCC Testing & Certification for Signal Boosters
FCC testing and certification is mandatory for cellular signal boosters. Your device must comply with all relevant FCC standards, including FCC Parts 20 and/or 15, in order to receive an FCC ID and gain legal market access in the United States.
As an ANSI-accredited testing lab and FCC-recognized Telecommunications Certification Body (TCB), we specialize in testing and regulatory compliance for signal boosters and other cellular devices. Our team can test your device and help you receive FCC certification.
To request a quote for testing and certifying your signal booster device, or to ask our team your questions about the FCC testing and compliance process,, contact us online or call us at info@hbcompliance.com, (480) 684-2969.